What To Expect On A Disney Cruise

Photo Source: Disney Cruise Line

If you’ve never been on a Disney Cruise and assume they are just for people traveling with children, you couldn’t be more wrong. Many adult-only couples choose to book a Disney Cruise because they continually earn high marks and awards, while others are just big Disney fans at heart.

Whether you’re traveling with young ones or not, here’s a look at some of the events and special touches you will find on your Disney Cruise.

Themed Events

You’ll want to pack more than a swimsuit and tropical clothes for a Disney cruise. "Show your Disney side," and dress up for the ‘Pirate IN the Caribbean deck party (on applicable itineraries) or decorate your room with Disney memorabilia – a big to-do amongst Disney fans.

Adults Only Dining

You’ll find restaurants like Palo or Remy, which are for adults only. There is a dress code at these locations as well – men should wear dress pants or slacks and a collared shirt, while women will want to stick to a dress, skirt, or pants, and a blouse. No tank tops, swimsuits, swim cover-ups, shorts, hats, cut-off clothing, t-shirts with offensive language, flip flops, or tennis shoes allowed in these venues.

Broadway-Caliber Entertainment

Not surprisingly, Disney Cruises offer Broadway-caliber entertainment like musicals. Be sure to get there early, as the nightly entertainment is one of the biggest draws while onboard.

Character Meetings

Disney Cruises offer a variety of character greetings during your itinerary. Getting a photo with your favorite Disney character is not just something for young ones either. Check the schedule when you first board and have Guest Services make reservations.

Relax in the Spa

All Disney cruise ships feature a world-class spa offering passengers a wide variety of services. The Vista Spa, located on the Disney Wonder, is operated by Steiner of London, one of the most prestigious names in the spa industry. The Senses Spa is located on the Disney Dream, Fantasy, and Magic. If spa time is a priority, book an itinerary on one of these ships. The 16,000-square-foot space has 17 treatment rooms, and even two luxury couples’ spa villas.

Other Adult-Only Amenities

Disney recognizes the importance of adults-only areas for guests, especially those traveling without kids. If you’re looking for some of the other 18-and-over areas, head to one of these zones:

• The Cove: This pool and surrounding area are for adults only – located on Deck 9 on the Wonder and Magic, Deck 11 on the Dream and Fantasy
• Cove Café: Exclusive to guests 18 and over, with specialty coffees and drinks. It’s accessible via the adults-only pool area.
• Satellite Sun Deck: Located on Deck 13 Forward only on the Disney Fantasy. Lounge chairs, lots of shades, and a circular splash pool are a welcome retreat from the family areas onboard.
• Serenity Bay: Private adults-only beach on Castaway Cay.

Look for special programming and entertainment that are geared to adults as well. There are three programming tracks like The Art of Entertaining, where you can learn how to pair wines with meals; Disney Behind the Scenes, where you can get a look at the "backstage" of Walt Disney Theatre or what’s cooking behind the kitchen galley doors; and Navigating the Seas, to learn about how the Disney ships were constructed and how they operate.

Whole Family Fun

If you’re sailing on the Wonder or the Magic, look for Studio Sea, where the whole family can enjoy special activities like "Family Karaoke," compete in a dance contest, enjoy a comedy show, or join the crew for a "Meet the Crew" party.

D Lounge is on the Disney Dream and Fantasy, offering 20 different activities throughout the day and night. Some of the popular ones include Towel Folding, where you learn how they make the adorable towel animals in your stateroom, or Anyone Can Cook, where you learn how to disguise healthy foods, create a romantic dinner, and more.

In your stateroom, enjoy endless movies on the All Movie channel or Disney Animated movie channel. The Buena Vista theatre also screens first run Disney films.

Seasonal Activities

If you’re traveling in the fall or winter, check out special sailing dates for Halloween on the High Seas and the Very Merrytime Cruises. There is also a special Thanksgiving Day feast (and screening of NFL games) and a New Year’s Eve party. Castaway Cay is also very festive at Christmastime.

Schedule a Call with a Character

For a fun way to countdown to your cruise, schedule a call with a character. Once you book your cruise, log on to the Planning Center and select your preferred date and time. While this is great with kids, any Disney fan is sure to enjoy a personalized call from their favorite Disney character!

Heading on a cruise? Find out more about what kind of travel insurance you need!

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.