My Disney Cruise Experience: The Good and the Bad
Planning a vacation that balances excitement, relaxation, and unforgettable memories is no easy feat, but my recent Disney cruise ticked all the boxes—and then some. As a travel agent who’s been on numerous cruises, I want to share my honest thoughts on what sets Disney apart. Spoiler: it's not just for kids! Here's what made my Disney cruise a truly magical experience, plus why I wholeheartedly recommend it for families, couples, and even solo travelers.
The Good
1. No Drink Packages: A Relaxing Atmosphere
One of the things I appreciate most about Disney cruises is the lack of drink packages. Now…Hear me out. At first, I definitely saw this as a down side. Budgeting upfront and having an all-inclusive experience is one of the things I like most about cruising, and I definitely like to have a drink here and there. However, after day 1, I knew that no drink packages was a blessing in disguise. Without the typical bar-crawl crowd, the ship felt calm and relaxed. Adults can still enjoy cocktails, wine, or beer, but it’s a much more laid-back experience. For me, it meant fewer loud, rowdy people and a more peaceful environment to unwind. Let’s be real… being surrounded by drunk adults, especially drunk strangers, is annoying, especially once you reach your 30s.
2. Incredible Kids' Clubs: Built-In “Me Time”
The kids' clubs on Disney ships are next-level. My daughter couldn’t get enough of the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab. With themed play areas, interactive activities, and caring counselors, she was entertained for hours. She’d beg to go back after meals, which allowed my spouse and me to enjoy some quality adult time—whether that meant lounging by the pool, savoring a long dinner, or simply taking a quiet walk on deck. The balance of family and alone time made the trip perfect for everyone.
3. The Spa: Pure Relaxation
I treated myself to the Rainforest Spa Pass, and it was worth every penny. With access to steam rooms, saunas, and heated loungers, it became my sanctuary. After a busy day of exploring or chasing after my little one, the spa offered a serene escape. I left every session feeling rejuvenated and ready to enjoy the next adventure.
4. Broadway-Caliber Evening Shows
Disney’s evening entertainment blew me away. The Broadway-style shows were spectacular, with incredible sets, costumes, and performances. One standout was the actress playing Mother Gothel in Tangled: The Musical. Her voice and stage presence were as good as any Broadway performance I’ve ever seen. These shows were a nightly highlight and a wonderful way to end each day.
5. Exceptional Food and Unlimited Drinks
When it comes to food, Disney doesn’t skimp. The meals were not only delicious but also diverse, offering everything from gourmet dishes to comfort food favorites. The unlimited, self-serve soda machines were a delightful bonus. I didn’t realize how much I’d appreciate having free access to soda until I didn’t have to think twice about grabbing a fizzy drink.
6. Outstanding Service: A Disney Signature
Disney’s legendary service shines on their cruise ships. With rotational dining, your servers move with you to each restaurant, getting to know your preferences and needs. By the second night, our waiter had chocolate milk ready for my daughter before we even sat down. Our room attendant was just as thoughtful, leaving surprise treats and making every effort to enhance our stay. I even watched one waiter walk all the way to the other end of the ship and up 3 decks all because someone said they “wished they had a cookie.”
7. Disney’s Private Island: A Slice of Paradise
Disney’s private island, which we visited during the cruise, was a dream. The pristine beaches, clear blue waters, and clean facilities were unmatched. We spent the day soaking up the sun, snorkeling, and enjoying the calm, picturesque setting. It was easily one of the best beach days we’ve ever had.
8. Spacious Staterooms: Designed for Comfort
Disney’s staterooms are a cut above, with ingenious storage solutions that make them feel much bigger than they are. Even after unpacking all our bags, we had empty drawers. The deluxe rooms with split bathrooms were a game-changer for our family, allowing us to get ready faster in the mornings.
9. Fireworks at Sea: A Disney Exclusive
Disney is the only cruise line that offers fireworks at sea, and they’re spectacular. On our cruise, two Disney ships coordinated their shows so that after watching our fireworks display, we could turn around and enjoy the neighboring ship’s performance. It felt like we were part of a private celebration—something no other cruise line can replicate.
10. Seamless Organization
Disney’s logistical prowess was evident from start to finish. From handling our luggage to organizing embarkation and debarkation, everything ran smoothly. The staggered dining and show schedules meant no overcrowding, and we never had trouble finding great seats, even when arriving a few minutes late.
Now for the Not So Good…
As much as I adored my Disney cruise, no vacation is without its quirks. Along with the magic, there were a few aspects I didn’t love as much. But here’s the thing: even these minor challenges taught me valuable lessons that I’m eager to share to make your Disney cruise as smooth as possible.
1) The Late Dining Conundrum
I booked our cruise relatively last minute, which left us with the late dining time. If you’ve ever tried sitting down for a multi-course meal at 8:15 PM after a full day of activities, you’ll know it’s not for the faint of heart. The dinners on Disney cruises are long, immersive experiences, but by that hour, we were pretty exhausted.
Tip: Book early—ideally a year or more in advance—to secure the earlier dining slot. If you’re traveling with young kids or prefer a more relaxed pace, this can be a game-changer. Also, request a private table! We were seated at a large table of 10, and while we made some great friends, I noticed smaller tables finished their meals much faster. Dining at a private table could shave off valuable time, especially if you’re eager to catch evening activities.
2) Amazing, Yet Repetitive Shows
I’m not exaggerating when I say the Broadway-style shows were a highlight of the trip. However, I started to notice a pattern. On our 4-day cruise, we saw three different musicals. While each one was spectacular, the similarity in format started to feel repetitive by the third night.
To mix things up, we started attending the late-night game shows and events in the bars and lounges. These offered a completely different vibe—think trivia, karaoke, and interactive games—and were a great way to break up the rhythm of back-to-back musicals. If you’re cruising without kids or have a sitter, I highly recommend exploring these nighttime offerings for a fun change of pace.
3) Cruise Life: A Balancing Act
This might be more about me than the cruise itself, but I tend to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of activities available on a ship. There’s always something going on, and my natural instinct is to try and do it all. Sound familiar? Here’s my advice: teach yourself to be okay with skipping a few things.
It’s impossible to experience everything in one trip, and that’s part of the magic. If you don’t catch every show, activity, or dining experience, it simply gives you a reason to come back. Cruises are meant to be a balance of action and relaxation—find what works for you and enjoy the journey.
Why Work with ByHannah Vacations?
As someone who’s been there, done that, and planned it all, I can help you navigate these potential pitfalls and make the most of Disney Cruise Line Benefits. My job is to make your trip seamless. From securing your preferred dining time to advising on the best onboard experiences, I’ll handle the details so you can focus on the fun. Plus, I offer constant price monitoring. If a deal pops up after you book, I’ll apply it to your reservation, ensuring you get the best value.
The Magic Is Waiting
Despite the minor hiccups, my Disney cruise was a dream come true, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a unique, family-friendly adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first cruise, contact ByHannah Vacations today for expert planning and concierge services. Let’s make your Disney cruise as magical as it can be!