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Ports & Destinations

Disney Cruise Caribbean vs Mediterranean: Which Itinerary is Better?

Comparing Disney's most popular cruise destinations. Discover the best itinerary for your family based on ports, weather, pricing, and experiences.

Choosing between Disney's Caribbean and Mediterranean cruises comes down to what you want from your vacation. Here's how they compare.

Caribbean Cruises

  • Ships: Dream, Fantasy, Wish, Treasure
  • Duration: 3-7 nights typical
  • Highlights: Castaway Cay, beach days, relaxation
  • Departure: Port Canaveral (Orlando area)
  • Best for: Families with young kids, first-time cruisers
  • Cost: Lower, no international flights needed

Mediterranean Cruises

  • Ships: Dream or Magic (seasonal)
  • Duration: 7-12 nights typical
  • Highlights: Rome, Barcelona, Greek Isles, Dubrovnik
  • Departure: Barcelona, Rome, Southampton
  • Best for: Older kids, culture seekers, special occasions
  • Cost: Higher, plus international flights

Key Differences

  • Caribbean = beach/relaxation | Mediterranean = culture/history
  • Caribbean ports are kid-friendly | Med requires more walking
  • Caribbean has Castaway Cay | Med has unique European ports
  • Caribbean is year-round | Med is seasonal (May-September)

Recommendation

First-time cruisers and families with young children: Start with Caribbean. Experienced cruisers, older kids, or special celebrations: Consider Mediterranean for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.