What Is Included (And Not) On A Disney Cruise?
Taking a Disney Cruise is often described as a vacation like no other–where magic, entertainment, and relaxation come together in an unforgettable experience. A Disney Cruise offers a range of inclusions designed to make your journey as convenient and enjoyable as possible. From world-class entertainment to exceptional dining experiences, Disney makes sure that guests of all ages have a truly magical vacation at sea.
Every detail is carefully planned to provide a seamless and immersive experience, from the moment you step onboard to the final farewell. However, it’s important to understand “What is and what is not included in Disney Cruise fares? This way, you can plan accordingly and avoid any surprises during your trip.
Disney Cruises offer a wide array of amenities and activities that cater to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Be it your first time setting sail or you’re a Disney Cruise veteran, understanding the inclusions and exclusions of the cruise will allow you to maximize your experience and guarantee a smooth and magical journey.
What’s Included in a Disney Cruise?
A Disney Cruise delivers a range of inclusions designed to make your journey as convenient and enjoyable as possible. From entertainment to dining, Disney makes sure that guests have a fulfilling cruise experience.
With activities tailored for families, children, and adults alike, a Disney Cruise blends relaxation, adventure, and Disney magic into an unforgettable voyage. Be it sailing to the Caribbean, Alaska, or Europe, you’ll find that a Disney Cruise includes a wide array of amenities, services, and experiences that cater to every type of traveler.
Understanding what is included in your Disney Cruise fare will help you maximize your time onboard and guarantee you make the most of everything the ship has to offer.
● Dining Options
One of the major highlights of a Disney Cruise is the variety of dining options available. Included in your cruise fare are all meals in the main dining rooms. These feature delicious and diverse menus designed to satisfy every palate.
Disney offers rotational dining. This means guests can experience different themed dining rooms each night, with the same waitstaff following you throughout your dining experience. The waitstaff truly gets to you know and your preferences. They had chocolate milk waiting for my daughter every night! Plus, if you have any food allergies, sensitivities, or other dietary restrictions, Disney is the absolute best at making sure you are taken care of. Breakfast and lunch are also included in the main dining rooms, as well as buffets and quick-service spots available on the ship.
For those who prefer a more casual atmosphere, there are also a variety of buffets and quick-service restaurants that are included with your cruise package. These venues offer a wide range of options, from burgers and fries to international cuisine. For families with young children or picky eaters, these options deliver great flexibility and guarantee that everyone finds something they enjoy.
Disney Cruise Line also delivers room service. This is included in your cruise fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, it’s important to note that gratuity is expected for room service, even though the food itself is included in the price of your cruise.
● Entertainment and Activities
Disney is known for its entertainment, and a Disney Cruise is no exception. One of the standout inclusions is the wide array of shows and activities available onboard.
Broadway-style performances, character meet-and-greets, and Disney movie screenings are all part of the included entertainment. Themed parties, such as Pirate Night and character dining experiences, are also included in your package. This brings guests unforgettable memories.
There are numerous activities available for children, teens, and adults alike. Children can enjoy the kids’ clubs–which are divided into age groups. They feature a mix of supervised activities, arts and crafts, video games, and interactive adventures. Disney cruises also come with family-friendly activities like trivia games, cooking demonstrations, and scavenger hunts, designed to entertain everyone, no matter their age.
For adults, there are specialized activities, including cooking classes, wine tastings, fitness classes, and themed adult-only events such as cocktail parties. Nightlife aboard Disney Cruise ships includes adults-only lounges, karaoke nights, and live entertainment. Disney Cruise Line makes sure that guests of all ages have a range of things to enjoy during their time at sea.
● Onboard Amenities
Your Disney Cruise package also includes access to a variety of onboard amenities that add comfort and enjoyment to your cruise. These include swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, and sports courts–available for use throughout the cruise. For families, there are also dedicated water play areas, such as water slides and splash zones.
The ships are equipped with numerous areas to relax, including beautiful deck spaces. Guests can soak up the sun, enjoy the sea breeze, or participate in scheduled deck activities like bingo or dance lessons. For those looking for a quieter spot, there are often adult-only areas where guests can unwind without the hustle and bustle of children.
Additionally, complimentary transportation to and from your Disney Cruise departure port is often included in special cruise packages. Disney also provides luggage delivery services to and from your stateroom. This allows for a stress-free embarkation and disembarkation process.
● Port Exploration
While most Disney Cruise activities and amenities are included in the price, there are also optional shore excursions available at various ports of call. These excursions–known as Port Adventures–are not included in your cruise fare. However, getting off the ship and spending the day exploring the port for free, is always an option! I personally love doing this at common ports like Nassau, Bahamas where there is tons to see and several shops to meander. Plus, if your itinerary has you stopping at either of Disney’s private islands, Disney’s Castaway Cay or Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, you’ll have plenty of free entertainment from water splash zones and beach fun to getting emersed in Bahamian culture.
If you prefer to spend your entire cruise on the ship, that is an option as well! Ship activities and amenities continue even while in port. So feel free to enjoy having less people at the pool or spa and then go stuff your face at the buffet.
What Is Not Included in Disney Cruise Fares?
While there are numerous inclusions on a Disney Cruise, there are also a few things that are not covered by your cruise fare. Understanding these exclusions will help you plan your budget accordingly and avoid any unexpected expenses.
Though Disney provides an immersive and all-encompassing experience, certain premium services, specialty dining, and exclusive activities require an additional fee. From shore excursions to spa treatments, guests have the option to enhance their vacation with personalized experiences that go beyond the standard offerings.
● Alcoholic Beverages
One of the primary exclusions on a Disney Cruise is alcoholic beverages. Non-alcoholic drinks such as soda, coffee, and water are included in the price of your cruise. However, alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, cocktails, and specialty drinks are not included.
On the other hand, Disney has a variety of drink packages that guests can purchase to save money on alcoholic drinks throughout the cruise. You can also purchase drinks individually at the bars and lounges on the ship.
Additionally, Disney Cruise Line has a strict policy about bringing alcohol on board. Guests are not permitted to bring their own alcoholic beverages, with the exception of a limited amount of wine or champagne. This can be brought onboard for personal consumption.
Be sure to check the specific guidelines for alcohol before your trip to avoid any confusion.
● Gratuities
Gratuities for your Disney Cruise staff, such as your dining servers and stateroom attendants, are not included in the price of the cruise.
Disney recommends a set amount per day for gratuities, which can be paid in advance or onboard. This is an important aspect of your cruise experience. The crew members work hard to make sure that your vacation is seamless and enjoyable.
Guests are encouraged to bring cash or use their onboard account to pay for gratuities at the end of the cruise. However, some guests choose to prepay to avoid handling gratuities during their trip. It’s important to budget for these gratuities in advance, as they can add up over the course of the trip.
● Specialty Dining and Premium Experiences
While dining at the main restaurants is included, there are a few specialty dining experiences that are not covered in the cruise fare.
Fine dining venues, such as the adults-only restaurants or themed dining experiences, often require an additional fee to reserve a table. These premium dining options offer an elevated culinary experience with special menus, themed atmospheres, and enhanced service.
Similarly, certain experiences and activities, such as spa treatments, salon services, and specialized fitness classes, are also not included in the cruise fare. If you wish to indulge in these premium services, you’ll need to pay extra.
The spa on a Disney Cruise offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and salon services. This way, you can enjoy a luxurious experience during your vacation.
● Merchandise and Souvenirs
As with any Disney experience, there are plenty of opportunities to purchase Disney-themed merchandise onboard your cruise ship. However, souvenirs, including clothing, toys, and artwork, are not included in the price of your cruise.
While you may choose to purchase merchandise as a memento of your trip, it’s important to budget for these expenses separately from your cruise fare.
Discover the Magic of a Disney Cruise with byHannah Vacations
A Disney Cruise is an unforgettable adventure. It brings families, couples, and solo travelers an immersive experience filled with world-class entertainment, exceptional dining, and signature Disney service.
From thrilling Broadway-style shows to beloved character meet-and-greets, every moment aboard is designed to bring joy and excitement. However, while the cruise fare includes a wide range of amenities and activities, there are also additional costs for premium experiences.
At byHannah Vacations, we specialize in helping travelers navigate the ins and outs of Disney Cruise planning. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a Disney veteran, we make sure that your trip is seamless, stress-free, and tailored to your preferences. Our expertise allows us to give insights into the best staterooms, dining options, and exclusive add-ons that enhance your journey.
Personalized Disney Cruise Planning
byHannah Vacations takes the time to understand your preferences, no matter if looking for a family-friendly adventure, a romantic getaway, or a group vacation with friends. Our planning services include helping you choose the best itinerary, stateroom category, and dining arrangements to match your needs.
From the moment you book to the time you step onboard, we guide you through each step of the process. Need help with selecting shore excursions, onboard activities, or spa treatments? We provide personalized recommendations that maximize your enjoyment while staying within your budget.
Our goal is to make sure that every detail is taken care of so that you can focus on experiencing the magic of Disney at sea.
Exclusive Offers and Expert Advice
Booking a Disney Cruise with byHannah Vacations means gaining access to exclusive offers and insights that you won’t find elsewhere.
We stay updated on Disney Cruise Line promotions, seasonal discounts, and special packages that can help you save money while enhancing your experience. Additionally, we provide tips on when to book to secure the best rates and availability.
Our expertise extends beyond just booking your cruise. We offer advice on travel insurance, packing essentials, and strategies for making the most of your time onboard. No matter if it’s securing the best spot for the fireworks show or guaranteeing you get reservations for the most sought-after dining experiences, we help you navigate the finer details that make a Disney Cruise exceptional.
Stress-Free Planning for First-Time Disney Cruisers
For first-time Disney cruisers, the experience can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options for entertainment, dining, and excursions, it can be difficult to know where to start. byHannah Vacations provides guidance on everything from selecting the right ship and itinerary to understanding Disney Cruise Line’s rotational dining system.
We help you understand what is included in your fare and what additional costs you should budget for. Want to know which stateroom category offers the best value, which excursions are worth the price, or how to take advantage of onboard perks? We make sure that you embark on your cruise feeling confident and prepared.
Let us handle the planning so that you can focus on what truly matters—creating magical memories with your loved ones. Book your Disney Cruise with confidence today.