Unveiling the Magic: What’s Included on a Disney Cruise?

A Disney Cruise Line voyage isn’t just a vacation; it’s an immersive experience steeped in the storytelling and exceptional service that the Mouse House is famous for. But what exactly does your fare get you? Prepare to be enchanted, because the answer is quite extensive. The base fare includes a remarkable array of offerings, ensuring a memorable and mostly all-inclusive adventure for the entire family. Think of it as a park ticket meets a luxury resort, floating on the open sea.

The core inclusions of a Disney Cruise are designed to provide value and convenience. These encompass:

• Stateroom Accommodations: Your home away from home! This includes twice-daily housekeeping service, comfortable beds, and thoughtful design tailored for families. Staterooms range from cozy interior cabins to lavish suites with verandahs.
• World-Class Dining: A culinary adventure awaits! This includes rotating themed restaurants (included in the base fare), casual dining options, quick-service locations, and room service (with some exceptions). Enjoy diverse cuisines and innovative menus crafted by talented chefs.
• Spectacular Entertainment: Get ready to be wowed! Enjoy Broadway-quality musicals, original stage productions, deck parties, fireworks at sea (on select itineraries), first-run Disney movies, character meet-and-greets, and live music throughout the ship.
• Age-Specific Kids Clubs: From toddlers to teens, there’s a dedicated space for everyone. It’s a small world Nursery! (for ages 6 months to 3 years, at an additional cost), Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (ages 3-12), Edge (ages 11-14), and Vibe (ages 14-17) offer supervised activities, engaging programs, and a chance for kids to make new friends.
• Pools, Water Slides, and Recreation: Make a splash! Enjoy themed pools, water slides, splash zones, and deck games for guests of all ages. Perfect for cooling off and having fun in the sun.
• Basic Beverages: Stay hydrated with complimentary fountain sodas, tea, coffee, and juice available at the beverage stations throughout the ship.
• 24-Hour Room Service: Late-night cravings or a relaxed breakfast in your stateroom? 24-hour room service (excluding certain items) is included for your convenience.
• Port Adventures: (Note: Not included in the base fare, but easily add-able) While not included in the base fare, Disney Cruise Line offers a vast selection of Port Adventures (shore excursions) at each port of call. These range from snorkeling and sightseeing to cultural tours and animal encounters.
• Exceptional Service: Disney is renowned for its outstanding guest service. Expect attentive and friendly crew members dedicated to making your cruise experience magical.

While the above items are included, it’s important to know what isn’t. Alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, spa treatments, some dining experiences (like Palo and Remy), gratuities, professional photography, and Wi-Fi are generally not included in the base fare and are available for an additional cost. Be sure to factor these expenses into your overall budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Disney Cruises

What dining experiences are included on a Disney Cruise?

The main dining rooms, following a unique rotational dining concept, are included. This means you and your servers move together each night to a different themed restaurant: Animator’s Palate, Enchanted Garden, Royal Court/Palace, and Tiana’s Place. Casual dining options like Cabanas, quick-service locations such as Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, and 24-hour room service (excluding certain items) are also included.

Are gratuities included in the cruise fare?

No, gratuities are not included in the base fare. However, you can prepay gratuities before your cruise or have them automatically charged to your onboard account at the end of your voyage. The recommended gratuity amount covers your stateroom host/hostess, dining room servers, assistant servers, and head servers.

What activities are available for adults on a Disney Cruise?

While Disney Cruises are family-friendly, there are plenty of adult-exclusive spaces and activities. These include adult-only pools and sundecks (such as Quiet Cove), nightclubs and lounges (like Skyline), spa and fitness centers, tastings, and adult-exclusive dining experiences like Palo and Remy (reservations and additional charges apply).

Is alcohol included in the cruise fare?

No, alcoholic beverages are not included in the base fare, except for certain events like the Captain’s reception. You can purchase alcoholic drinks at bars, lounges, and restaurants throughout the ship. Beverage packages are sometimes available, depending on the itinerary and promotions.

What is included in the kids’ clubs on a Disney Cruise?

The kids’ clubs – It’s a small world Nursery! (for an additional fee, ages 6 months to 3 years), Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (ages 3-12), Edge (ages 11-14), and Vibe (ages 14-17) – offer a wide range of supervised activities, games, crafts, and entertainment. These are all included in the cruise fare. Counselors are trained to engage children in age-appropriate activities, ensuring a safe and fun environment.

Is Wi-Fi included on a Disney Cruise?

Wi-Fi is not included in the base cruise fare. You can purchase Wi-Fi packages on board, allowing you to stay connected with family and friends, check emails, and browse the internet. The cost of Wi-Fi varies depending on the length of your cruise and the amount of data you require.

What are Port Adventures and are they included?

Port Adventures are shore excursions offered at each port of call. These are not included in the base cruise fare and are available for an additional cost. Options range from snorkeling and sightseeing to cultural tours and animal encounters. You can book Port Adventures in advance online or once you’re on board the ship.

What entertainment is included on a Disney Cruise?

A Disney Cruise offers a plethora of entertainment, all included in the cruise fare. This encompasses Broadway-caliber musicals, original stage productions, deck parties, fireworks at sea (on select itineraries), first-run Disney movies, character meet-and-greets, and live music throughout the ship. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, day and night.

Are all beverages included in the cruise fare?

No, not all beverages are included. Complimentary beverages include fountain sodas, tea, coffee, and juice available at the beverage stations. Alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and bottled water are available for purchase at an additional cost.

What is the dress code on a Disney Cruise?

The dress code on a Disney Cruise is generally casual. However, some restaurants may have a more formal dress code on certain nights, such as “cruise casual” or “formal night.” Check your cruise itinerary for specific dress code requirements.

Are transfers included in the cruise fare?

Generally, transfers are not included in the base cruise fare. You can purchase transfers from the airport to the cruise terminal and vice versa through Disney Cruise Line. Alternatively, you can arrange your own transportation using taxis, ride-sharing services, or private car services.

Can I bring my own snacks and drinks on board?

Yes, you are allowed to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on board a Disney Cruise. However, there are restrictions on the quantity and types of beverages you can bring. Generally, you can bring a reasonable amount of non-alcoholic beverages in your carry-on luggage.