Cruising Adventures,  Disney Adventures

What’s Included on a Disney Cruise: Family-Friendly Features

The number 1 question I get from people about Disney cruises is: are Disney cruises worth it? Obviously that answer is going to vary from person to person, but when it comes to making decisions about whether it’s worth it for you and your family, you should know whats included in a Disney cruise that might not be included on other cruise lines.

It’s also important for you to know that you can save money on your cruise by booking early. While it might not be a huge savings, every bit helps, and you can still enjoy all the things Disney cruises offer, at a lower point.

Another question I get a lot is: what do I pack for a Disney cruise? Once you’re ready to start packing (or shopping), check out my Disney Cruise packing list to guide you.

Whats included in a Disney Cruise? Staterooms That Fit 5 People

One thing that is valuable to me is that my entire family of five can fit in one stateroom. I don’t need to worry about booking two adjoining rooms like I would have to on some of the other cruise lines (click to find out which cruise lines fit families of five). This doesn’t necessarily make Disney cruises cheaper than others, but it is less of a hassle to me when booking.

Spacious Staterooms with Split Bath Design

Whats included in a disney cruise? Split bathroom design to allow more space for getting ready.
Split-bathroom design; image from Disney Cruise Line website

Besides being able to fit five people, the Disney staterooms have a split-bath design, allowing two people to be getting ready at the same time. One bathroom area has a sink and toilet, and the other has a shower/ tub combo and sink. That’s also in addition to the vanity area in the living space. There also tends to be more storage and slightly larger living spaces in Disney cruise staterooms.

Disney Kids Clubs That the Kids LOVE

While I haven’t gone on every other cruise line to compare, I believe that the kids clubs on Disney cruises are leaps and bounds better than other kids clubs. There are video games, art areas, organized activities, pajama parties, character appearances and more. My kids never want to leave. And that’s saying something because the ship is filled with other things they love, like pools, waterslides and ice cream.

Whats Included in a Disney Cruise? Broadway-caliber Musicals

Whats included in your disney cruise? Broadway-caliber shows that are fun for all!

If you’re a Disney fan, the nightly shows will not disappoint. They feature new spins on your favorite storylines and characters. The theaters are large, and we’ve never had issues getting seats.

Fireworks at Sea

Whats included in your Disney Cruise? Fireworks over the sea!

Who doesn’t love a good firework show? Disney is known for some of the most magical firework displays, and when you’re in the middle of the ocean, the fireworks somehow seem even more magical.

Disney’s Private Island: Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay is a true paradise, but the only way to get there is by taking a Disney Cruise. Many of the Caribbean and Bahamian Disney cruise itineraries include a stop at Castaway Cay (some even get to visit twice; a term Disney fanatics refer to as a double-dip at Castaway Cay).

What’s Included on a Disney Cruise: Character Meet & Greets

If you’re a Disney fanatic, it doesn’t get more magical than seeing your favorite Disney characters walk past you at the pool or come and visit you while you’re enjoying a meal. Disney cruises are filled with character meet and greets, character dining options, character dance parties, Princesses, and more, so get your autograph books ready!

Movie Theater and On-demand Movies

Image from Disney Cruise Line website

The Disney theater is a state-of-the-art theater that plays brand new, first-run Disney movies throughout your time on the ship. And they’re included in the cost of your cruise (although popcorn isn’t). I know for me personally, taking my family of 5 to the theater costs more than $50 in tickets alone, so this is definitely a perk if there’s a new movie you’ve been hoping to see. There is also the option to stream Disney movies and shows in your stateroom 24/7.

Included on a Disney Cruise: Sodas!

Whats included in a Disney cruise: ice cream and sodas!

It’s no secret that dining is included on all cruises. And Disney cruise restaurants are some of the best. But, most cruise lines only include water, coffee, milk and juices as free drink options; nothing carbonated. But Disney provides a variety of free beverages which includes a selection of sodas as well.

You can check out how Disney compares to Royal Caribbean cruises in this blog post here or browse these other good cruises for families.

Now that you know whats included in your Disney cruise, hopefully you can better judge if a Disney Cruise is worth it. If you are thinking of taking a Disney Cruise, check out my post about everything you need to know about your Disney Cruise and my top Disney Cruise tips to make sure you take advantage of everything the cruise line has to offer.


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Thanks for reading my post. My name is Jaime and I am a mom to three busy children. When we're not at the soccer and football fields, we try to get away as often as possible. I'm a teacher and my husband is a firefighter, so we mostly get away for long weekends or over the school breaks. I hope to inspire busy families to take time to recoup and relax while making memories on camping trips or cruise ships, or at the fancy resort pool--we love it all! Follow me on Instagram for real-time inspiration.

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