Essential Disney Cruise Tips Every Family Should Know

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I feel like I could go on a hundred Disney cruises I would still learn something new every time. There is so much to do on the ships and so many things to know before you go. That’s why I’ve compiled these Disney Cruise tips to consolidate the most important things new (and returning) cruisers should know before they go.

A Disney Cruise is an amazing experience, especially for families, but there are a few tips that can help you get the most out of your trip. Here are some key tips to know before you go. And if you’re still trying to decide if you should book a Disney cruise, check out my other popular blog post, Is a Disney Cruise Worth It?

1. Book Early and Choose the Right Stateroom

• Why Book Early: Disney Cruises are very popular and prices tend to go up as the departure date approaches. Booking early is one of the easiest ways to save money on your cruise. Plus, you’ll have a wider selection of staterooms to choose from.
• Choosing Your Stateroom: Depending on your budget and needs, consider booking a room with a verandah for extra space and fresh air. If you have younger kids, the location of the stateroom near the kids’ clubs or dining areas might be helpful. Typically mid-ship rooms feel less boat movement, as do rooms that are higher up. Elevators on cruises tend to be very busy and slow. Therefore, staying within a flight or two of the places you frequent most can be very convenient.
• Saving Money: Disney Cruises rarely get discounted, but you can find good deals on Costco that often include several hundred dollars back in Costco cash.

2. Check-In Online and Register for Activities Early – One of the most important Disney Cruise Tips

• Online Check-In AS SOON AS IT OPENS: The Disney Cruise Line is the only one I know of that doesn’t let you book excursions and on-board activities until you do the online check in. Complete the online check-in process as soon as it opens (typically 30-120 days before sailing, depending on your Castaway Club status). Yes, stay up until midnight to do it–it’s that important. This is how you can book popular activities like onboard character meet-and-greets, shore excursions, and adult dining reservations at Palo or Remy.
• Register for Kids’ Clubs: Disney’s kids’ clubs, like the Oceaneer Club, are a big hit, and you can save time by registering your kids before you’re on the ship. If you are going to do the paid nursery hours for infants, you need to reserve those in advance, and that is subject to availability, so the earlier, the better.

3. There is a Disney Cruise Facebook group for EVERY Disney Cruise sailing.

You can find it by searching the ship name and date on Facebook. For example, search: Disney Wonder June 19, and you can join the group that is going to Alaska June 19-26. Your cruise group will be the best resource for reminding you when you can book excursions, check in, joining various gift exchange (FE groups–Disney has their own language, and you can learn it all in these groups).

4. Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App

• The app will be your best friend on the cruise. It gives you daily schedules, activities, dining times, deck plans, and even allows you to message family members onboard for free. Be sure to download it before your trip!

5. Pack for Theme Nights

• Disney Cruises often feature themed nights, such as Pirate Night, where guests are encouraged to dress up. Be sure to check your itinerary and pack costumes or accessories so you and your family can fully enjoy the experience. I provide a complete packing list for your Disney cruise here.

6. Dining Rotations and Special Requests

• Disney Cruise Line features a rotational dining system where you’ll experience different restaurants, but your servers will follow you each night. When you book your cruise, you will select early or late dining. Be sure to note any dietary restrictions or special requests ahead of time.
• Room Service: It’s included in the cost of your cruise, and you can enjoy meals, snacks, or treats in your room, even Mickey ice cream bars!

7. Disney Cruise Tips: Plan for Adult-Only Time

• Take advantage of the kids clubs to enjoy adult-exclusive activities. There are quiet areas like Serenity Bay (on Castaway Cay), adult-only dining at Palo and Remy, adult pool areas, and lounges.

8. Arrive Early to the Shows and Events

• Disney shows like Frozen, The Lion King, and Beauty and the Beast are incredible and popular. Plan to arrive at least 20-30 minutes early to get good seats.

9. Bring a Day Bag for Embarkation

• Your checked luggage might take a while to arrive in your stateroom after you board the ship. You should pack a day bag with swimsuits, sunscreen, medications, and anything you’ll need to start enjoying the ship as soon as you board.

10. Disney Cruise Tips: Take Advantage of Castaway Cay

• If your cruise includes a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, make the most of it! Get off the ship early to claim a great spot on the beach, and take part in the Castaway Cay 5K if you’re up for a fun challenge. There’s also a kids’ club on the island, allowing you to enjoy some relaxation time.

11. Budget for Onboard Expenses

• While many activities and meals are included in the cruise fare, there are extra costs for things like alcohol, excursions, specialty dining, spa treatments, and souvenirs. Be sure to set a budget to avoid surprises.
• Check out my list of 5 extras that I highly recommend splurging on.

12. Attend the Character Meet-and-Greets

• These are much more manageable on the ship than in the parks, with shorter lines and unique characters. Book tickets for character experiences (like meeting Princesses or Marvel characters) as soon as you board.

13. Take Advantage of Photo Opportunities

• This Disney cruise tip might come as no surprise to you. But Disney cruises offer plenty of photo ops with characters and at scenic locations around the ship. You can pre-purchase a photo package to get professional pictures of your family throughout the trip.

14. Prepare for Embarkation and Disembarkation

• Embarkation day can be chaotic, so try to arrive at the port early to avoid long lines.
• On disembarkation day, plan your travel arrangements to allow for a leisurely breakfast onboard before you leave the ship. You can also usually pay to have your luggage stored for the day and then transported to the airport for you so that you can explore the city if you have a later flight home. We did this when we cruised out of New Orleans, and it was so convenient.

15. Enjoy the Pirate Night Fireworks

• Disney Cruise Line is one of the few cruise lines that offers fireworks at sea. Get a good spot on deck to enjoy the show, which typically happens during or after Pirate Night festivities.

16. Bring Your Own Alcohol on Board With You – One of the Best Disney Cruise Tips to Save Money

• Guests who are 21 years and older may bring a maximum of 2 bottles of unopened wine or champagne (no larger than 750 ml) or 6 beers (no larger than 12 ounces) on board with them at the beginning of the voyage AND at each port of call. These beverages must be packed in carry-on (not checked) bags or luggage.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to maximize the magic of your Disney Cruise and create an unforgettable experience for the whole family. I know that Disney Cruises tend to be a lot more expensive than other cruise lines (check out my cost comparison here), but once you see the magic waiting on board for you, I think you’ll find that it is worth it.

Still want more information? I have complete overviews of our Western Caribbean Cruise on the Magic as well as our Eastern Caribbean Cruise on the Fantasy for you to check out. And be sure to check out my 5 Tips of First-Time Disney Cruisers.