Everyone knows how much fun Disneyland and DisneyWorld are, but not as many of you know that Disney also has an amazing cruise line.What? Being stuck at sea on a ship full of kids??!!! This was honestly my first impression as well (a chaotic headache) but it is far from the truth! There are some misconceptions about cruises in general, however, Disney spared no expense when designing their cruise line. It is considered a luxury cruise line, with the added adventure and fun of Disney.
Let's start with the staterooms. When I travel, especially on a cruise and even more so when my children are with me, I want to make sure I'm in a room that isn't cramped, dingy and uncomfortable. Disney Cruises have several different options for staterooms ranging from top of the line penthouse suites to the smaller, no-windowed inside cabin. All cabins are carefully laid out to accommodate at least 2 children and their parents, the staterooms are spacious and offer little conveniences that make a difference for saving space. There are bunk beds that fold up during the day keeping the cabin space open. The main bed is elevated enough to slide luggage underneath. What might otherwise be a small cabin can gain in space when things tucked away nicely. While it is more cost effective to sleep in an inside cabin when you upgrade to a balcony (or Verandah, in Disneyspeak) the balcony is essentially extra square footage in your cabin. One of my favorite things to do when the kids go to sleep is order up dessert from room service and enjoy it out on the balcony in peace and quiet. The sea at night is so serene (almost as serene as sleeping kids!)
During the day there was plenty of things to keep the kids busy at various age appropriate kids clubs. There are numerous playgrounds, character experiences not to mention the water slides attached to the Mickey shaped pool! Under the stars you can pull up a deck chair and watch movies or reserve a seat at one of the famous Disney style shows. These are the same style shows you have come to expect at their theme parks complete with costumes and music. The kids were happy with their own daily options away from their parents, and we were happy with some adult themed things to do. While there are experiences that cost money to participate in, majority of if it is included in your cruise fare.
The dining experience on board was top notch. It ranged from table side cooking of freshly caught lobster, to a relaxed breakfast with Donald Duck! There are so many different options to choose from that are included in your cruise fare, including 24 hour room service!
There are numerous cruise itineraries available with the more popular ones departing out of Cape Canaveral in Florida. This gives you the option to have a short Bahamian cruise and tie it into a visit to the theme parks as well. A 3 or 4 day cruise also includes a stop at Disney's own island in the Caribbean sea, Castaway Cay. Enjoy lounging on the beach, the snorkeling in the shallow bay or cruising around on a water bike! You'll have a full day on this private island before returning to the port in Florida the next morning. I can help you coordinate your cruise, theme park and airport transfers into one seamless vacation!
Have a magical day!
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