disney cruise ship pool

Disney Magic Cruise Ship Pools and Picture Tour

Are you looking for pictures of the Disney Magic cruise ship pool deck?

No matter on which of the Disney ships you are sailing, the pool deck is always one of the most fun places to be!

With activities like pools, splash pads, and water slides, kids of all ages have so fun things to do.

In this post, I will provide a picture tour of Deck 9 of the Disney Magic cruise ship, including tips for using the pools and restaurants.

Disney Magic Swimming Pools

Splash zones on disney magic cruise ship, disney magic water slides, pool deck restaurants, tips and tricks.

The pool deck is located on Deck 9 of the Disney Magic, which you can see on this deck plan . It is FULL of activities and entertainment for the whole family, including some really fun Disney themed pools!

If you are wondering if the Disney cruise ship pools are heated, you will be happy to learn that they are! Below, I will discuss each of the swimming pools on the Disney Magic, including some important information you will want to know.

Goofy’s Pool

Goofy’s Pool is located in the middle of Deck 9 and is the larger of the two kid-friendly swimming pools. Two hot tubs, which also allow children inside, are situated near this pool as well. 

You are permitted to sit directly on the deck surrounding the pool to watch your child swim. Lounge chairs are also available surrounding this pool, and we never have a problem finding a seat. My six year old was able to stand in Goofy’s Pool, so it isn’t super deep.

We love Goofy’s Pool because it’s near Funnel Vision, which is the giant screen that shows Disney movies while you swim or sunbathe!

Huey, Dewey, and Louie Pool

The smaller pool on the Disney Magic features Donald Duck’s nephews: Huey, Dewey, and Louie. This pool is really shallow and looks like it is made for babies and toddlers; however, this is not the case. 

Like Goofy’s Pool, this swim area is for those children who are at least three years old AND potty trained. I would like to note that this pool was closed about once per day on our most recent cruise. 

I did not ask a lifeguard, but I am guessing that a child had an “accident” in the pool, which required Disney to drain and sanitize the swimming area. 

Quiet Cove Pool

The Quiet Cove Pool is located toward the front of the ship and is for adults only. Like the name implies, this pool is a quiet place for grown ups to relax in a child free zone. 

The Quiet Cove Pool includes two hot tub areas and a bar. This pool was never crowded, and it always seemed like a really peaceful place to spend time.

The pool hours can vary depending on the activities scheduled. You will be able to see the hours for each swimming pool on the Disney Navigator App . You can also check the Personal Navigator each day to see the available swimming times.

Goofy’s Pool is typically opened from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.  Disney Cruise Line will close the pool for deck parties like the Sail-A-Wave Party. This is because they cover the pool and use it as a dance floor/ stage during the show.

You will see the pool rules posted near each swimming pool area. In short, children must be 3 years old or older to use the pools. In addition, they MUST be potty trained.

You will see lifeguards monitoring each of the swimming pools to make sure the rules are being followed.

If you are cruising with a baby or toddler under the age of 3, the Disney cruise ships provide splash pad areas perfect for little ones. These water play areas really set Disney Cruise Line apart from other cruise lines .

Nephews’ Splash Zone

If you are cruising with a baby or toddler, you will more than likely spend a lot of your pool deck time at Nephews’ Splash Zone.  This splash pad area is the ONLY swimming place that kids under the age of three may play.  

Nephews’ Splash Zone is located at the back of Deck 9 and features Huey, Dewey, and Louie spraying out water. It also has tiny fountains that spray water from the ground. 

If you are planning a Disney cruise with a baby or a toddler, you may be interested in our post on why Disney Cruise Line is the best for toddlers . In that post, I compare the different cruise lines and their swimming areas for toddlers.

The AquaLab is another splash zone on the Disney Magic, but it is for kids who are potty trained AND over the age of three. This play area provides fun water features that spray and pour water. 

The AquaLab overlooks the Huey, Dewey, and Louie Pool, and it is near the Twist ‘n’ Spout water slide. 

Disney Cruise Line features elaborate water slides on ALL of their ships. The Disney Magic provides two slides that are appropriate for both adults and kids, depending on height.

Twist ‘n’ Spout

The Twist ‘n’ Spout slide is the yellow, twisting slide you see in many of the photos of the Disney Magic. The height requirement for this slide is 42” or taller. 

Cruisers can slide one at a time, and a lifeguard is stationed at the bottom to supervise and help if needed. 

The AquaDunk is the other water slide on the Disney Magic, but it comes with a minimum height requirement of 48”. 

This slide starts with a platform on which you stand before it suddenly slides out from under you. You then plunge down the slide super fast until you reach the end. 

The pool deck on the Disney Magic offers numerous dining options for cruisers, and they are all really kid-friendly!

Located in the back of the ship, Cabanas is the popular buffet that is open to guests for breakfast and lunch each day. Cabanas is also available for dinner except on the first ( embarkation day ) and the final day of your cruise. 

We love eating at Cabanas because the buffet provides such diverse options that every family member can find something they like to eat.

Pinocchio’s Pizzaria

Pinocchio’s Pizzaria is open for lunch and dinner and offers pizzas, which are a huge hit with my kids!  

I enjoyed a couple slices of their Margherita pizza for dinner one night, and it was excellent!

Daisy’s De-lites

Daisy’s De-lites is another counter service option on the pool deck. I frequented this dining venue on our last cruise because it opens really early in the morning before many of the other restaurants. 

I strolled my one year old up to the pool deck most mornings at 6:30 to grab fresh fruit and muffins from Daisy’s De-Lites

Duck-In Diner

Duck-In Diner is another counter service option near the pools on the Disney Magic. Here, you will find kid favorites like burgers, hot dogs, and chicken fingers. They also have fries available as a side. 

↓↓ Visit My Etsy Shop ↓↓

Duck-In Diner had a sign on their counter advertising that they provided vegetarian and vegan friendly options as well.

Fro-Zone Treats

Near Duck-In Diner, you will find Fro-Zone Treats. This snack stand serves smoothies made from fresh fruit and vegetables. The smoothies are free of charge, but you can add protein powder and other items for an additional price. 

Eye Scream is a snack counter with soft serve ice cream. Cruisers can grab a cone or a bowl and serve themselves beginning at around 11:30 each day. This is a really popular snack stand as you can imagine. Cruisers were usually standing around the counter and eagerly waiting for it to open, especially on sea days.

Beverage Station

Located near the Aft entrance to the pool deck, you will find the beverage station. Here, you can use one of the available cups or your own container to fill drinks. 

The beverage station offers water, juice, tea, coffee, sodas, and hot chocolate. All of these are included in the price of the cruise too! Notice the sanitizing wipes at the drink station in the photo above. Disney Cruise Line provides these in areas all over the ship.

Pool Deck Plan on the Disney Magic

If you look at the deck plan for Deck 9 of the Disney Magic, you will notice some additional spaces on the pool deck.

Cove Cafe is an adult only area of the ship where you can purchase cocktails and specialty coffee. 

Edge is the kids club area that is for tweens. 

Signals Bar

Signals Bar is the counter service area by the Quiet Cove Adult Pool where you can grab cocktails and refreshments.

Senses Spa and Salon  

Senses Spa and Salon is located on Deck 9 forward. This is also where you can find the fitness center. 

Below, I will include some important tips and tricks you may find useful for the pool deck!

Crowded Pools

The pools on the Disney cruise ships can get crowded. If you visit the pools during non-peak hours, it will help with the crowd levels. We like to use the pools in the morning or on port days.

That being said, we don’t really have an issue with the crowded pools. I find that if you EXPECT them to be super crowded, then you won’t be as shocked when they actually are!

Pool Floats

Pool floats are not permitted in the pools on Disney Cruise Line. However, DCL does provide swimming vests free of charge. (See photo below.)

Pool Towels

Don’t worry about packing pool towels for your cruise. Towels are readily available right on the pool deck. You do not need to sign for a towel; instead, you just grab one from a nearby stand.

Final Review of the Disney Magic Cruise Ship Pool Deck

The pool deck on each of the Disney ships is a really fun place to spend time. The entertainment, dining, and activity options on Deck 9 make it really enjoyable for the whole family! Plus, you get amazing views of the sea!

For more ideas on things to do on the Disney cruise ships, check out our post on the most fun kids activities on DCL .

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Does anyone know if there are steps in the pools. The photos show ladders everywhere but hoping there are steps as well.

I believe the really shallow pools have steps into them, but the deeper pools use ladders. Maybe another reader will be able to chime in with a more certain answer though.

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PHOTOS: A Tour of All the Pools on the Wish, Disney Cruise Line’s Newest Ship

Depending on how you count, Disney’s Cruise Lines’ newest ship, the Wish, has about twice as many pools as fleet’s older ships. Here’s a tour, along with the rules related swimming on the Wish. Before we get started, here’s an screenshot of Wish decks 11-15 so you can see the overview of pool locations (the light blue areas). All the pools on Decks 11 and 12 have views of the FunnelVision screen that shows Disney movies throughout the day.

There are life vests available to borrow at several locations on the pool decks.

The Toy Story Splash Zone is only water location available to guests who are not potty trained. Swim diapers are not allowed in the regular pools.

While Disney and the deck plan indicate that pools are on a particular deck, several of the pools are located in intermediate zones between decks – see the Minnie pool photos below, for example. Guests with mobility issues may have issues accessing the pools that are surrounded by stairs.

In all pool locations, you may wear googles that cover your eyes, but swim masks that cover your nose or mouth are not permitted. You may not use floats, rafts, noodles, or snorkels in the onboard pools.

Most of the pools have sturdy covers that are moved over the water in the evening. The covers may act as a stage area or guest viewing area during nighttime performances on deck.

Note: Pool hours vary. At least one pool is typically open as early as 8:30 a.m. and at least one pool is typically open until 9:00 p.m. Pools openings and closings are staggered. The netting shown on some of the pool photos below is put in place when the pool is closed to guests.

Mickey’s Pool, Deck 11

Located closest to the FunnelVision screen, Mickey’s pool is 2 feet deep throughout. It has a maximum capacity of 50 guests. There is a substantial shallow lip before the depth increases.

Minnie’s Pool, Deck 11

Minnie’s pool is located in the center of Deck 11. The water depth is 2″ throughout. This pool has a maximum capacity of 63 guests.

Daisy’s Pool, Deck 11

Daisy’s pool is 6″ deep, just enough to cool off your feet. This pool has a maximum capacity of 35 guests.

Pluto’s Pool, Deck 11

Like the Daisy pool, Pluto’s pool is 6″ deep, with a maximum capacity of 35 guests.

Trixie’s Falls, Deck 12

Trixie’s Falls is located near the Toy Story Splash Zone. The water is 6″ deep, with a maximum capacity of 68 guests. There is a small fountain in the center of the pool. The back wall has a gentle waterfall feature.

Donald’s Pool, Deck 12

Donald’s pool is 4’6″ deep with a maximum capacity of 45 guests.

Goofy’s Pool, Deck 12

Goofy’s pool is a mirror of Donald’s pool. It is also 4’6″ deep and has a maximum capacity of 45 guests.

Toy Story Splash Zone, Deck 12

The Splash Zone is for guests under the age of six. It has a maximum capacity of 20 guests. Children who are not yet potty trained MUST wear swim diapers.

There are toddler-sized slides on both ends of the Splash Zone, separated by a variety of oversized Toy Story character heads that squirt water. Additional water elements squirt from the floor.

The Wish Tower Suite is located directly above the Splash Zone.

Quiet Cove Pool, Deck 13

The Quiet Cove pool is 6″ deep and has a maximum capacity of 13 guests. The pools in the Quiet Cove area for adults 18 and up only.

Additionally there is a Quiet Cove infinity-style pool. This has a depth of 3’3″ and a maximum capacity of 26 guests.

There is also a whirlpool spa nearby that is heated to a maximum temperature of 104 degree Farenheit and has a maximum capacity of 7 guests.

Chip & Dale’s Pool, Deck 14

Chip & Dale’s pool is the ship’s designated “quiet pool.” It is removed from the main water areas, with less noise from the FunnelVision and fewer guests nearby. Guests with sensory overload issues may find this pool particularly appealing. It 2′ deep and has a maximum capacity of 60 guests.

AquaMouse, Entrance on Deck 13

The AquaMouse is a 760-foot “watercoaster” that circles the exterior of the ship. Guests ride in rafts. Each raft is capable of holding two people, though you are welcome to ride alone. Posted signage states that single riders may have to wait longer, as groups of two per raft are prioritized.

During the ride, one of two Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts (either “Scuba Scramble” or “Swiss Meltdown”) plays on a series of video screens embedded in the walls of the ride tube. Intermittent squirts of water spray on you during the ride. A portion of the ride tunnel is clear, allowing guests to see the outdoors, but most of the ride tunnel has white walls.

Guests riding alone must be at least 48″ tall. Guests must be at least 42″ tall to ride with someone else. People under age seven must be accompanied by a guest age 14 or older.

Wheelchair or EVC users must transfer to the raft to ride. A posted warning states, “For safety, you should be in good health and free from heart conditions that could be aggravated by the adventure. Expectant mothers should not ride.”

Loose articles such as sunglasses, cell phones, and cameras are not permitted. You are also not allowed to wear swim gear with any exposed metal such as zippers or rivets. I didn’t see cast members particularly inspecting anyone’s clothing (though you may experience something different) – the idea is that they don’t want you wearing anything that could puncture or otherwise damage the rafts or ride tube.

Floatation devices and vests are not permitted on the AquaMouse.

You enter and exit the ride at the same location, you do not have to carry your raft.

Slide-a-Saurus Rex, Entrance on Deck 12

The Slide-a-Saurus is the bright yellow slide located under the AquaMouse. Guests must be at least 38″ tall to ride. Only one rider is allowed on the slide at a time – no lap sitting or tandem riding is permitted. Guests must slide feet first, lying on their back.

The slide access point is located near the entrance to the Splash Zone. Guests must climb a flight of stairs to get to the top of the slide. Wooden cubbies are available for guests to leave belongings such as hats or glasses, which are not permitted on the slide.

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Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

3 thoughts on “ PHOTOS: A Tour of All the Pools on the Wish, Disney Cruise Line’s Newest Ship ”

Are any of these pools in restricted areas, where you must be an adult or staying in a certain category of cabin? For instance, the deck plan for deck 13 forward says, “Concierge Lounge and Pool.” Did you not get to see it? Likewise, the plan for deck 13 aft says the Quiet Cove it is adults only.

You are correct that the pools in the Quiet Cove area are for guests 18 and up only. Sorry for the omission – I’ve added that information to the post.

There is a pool that is restricted to use by Concierge-Level guests. I was unable to see this area as I was not sailing Concierge.

Thanks! It’s good to know that not all pools are available for everyone on board.

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Disney Wish Pools and Slides: A Complete Guide

by Morgan Flaherty | Sep 19, 2023 | Disney Cruise Line , Disney Wish

We’re sharing your complete guide to the Disney Wish pools and slides, including the AquaMouse attraction.

The Disney Wish is Disney Cruise Line’s newest cruise ship, offering guests onboard some truly one-of-a-kind experiences at sea. The ship offers six different pools for families, along with a splash area, a pool for toddlers, an adults-only pool, and even the AquaMouse attraction. We’re sharing everything you need to know about the Disney Wish pools and slides,

Ready to learn more about the Disney Wish pools and slides? Here’s what we’ll be covering:

Mickey’s Pool (Deck 11)

Minnie’s pool (deck 11), daisy’s pool (deck 11).

• Pluto’s (Deck 11)

Donald’s Pool (Deck 12)

Goofy’s pool (deck 12), chip ‘n’ dale’s pool (deck 14), quiet cove (deck 13), toy story splash zone and trixie’s falls pool (deck 12).

• Slide-a-Saurus Rex

Disney Wish Pools for Families

On board the Disney Wish you’ll find six differently-sized pools for families. The six main pools are all located midship between the funnels on decks 11 and 12. On Deck 11, you’ll find Mickey’s Pool, Minnie’s Pool, Daisy’s Pool, and Pluto’s Pool. On Deck 12, you can find Donald’s Pool and Goofy’s Pool. On Deck 14, there’s a quiet pool, Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Pool. The main pools all offer lounge chairs where you can soak in the sun, or relax by the pool.

These pool areas are an especially fun place to be for Pirate Night when the pool deck is transformed into a rock concert venue for the Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party . Expect swashbuckling performances from a live pirate band and spectacular fireworks at sea.

Mickey’s Pool is the largest option for the pools and is located right in front of Funnel Vision. This is the jumbo LED display that plays Disney movies, TV series, live sporting events, and more.

Photo by Danny Shuster

Minnie’s Pool is also located on Deck 11 with a good view of Funnel Vision from the second largest pool. Both Mickey and Minnie’s Pool are fairly shallow, so perfect for bringing younger kids in to cool off.

Daisy’s Pool is also located on Deck 11 and is smaller than Mickey or Minnie’s Pool. Both Daisy’s Pool and Pluto’s Pool are also shallow, at two feet deep.

Pluto’s Pool (Deck 11)

Pluto’s Pool and Daisy’s Pool are both the smaller pool options on Deck 11, with a depth of about two feet.

Donald’s Pool and Goofy’s Pool are located on Deck 12 and are the two deepest pools at about four feet deep.

Goofy’s Pool and Donald’s Pool are located on Deck 12 and are the two deepest pools at about four feet deep.

One of Disney Wish’s best-kept secrets is Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Pool up on Deck 14! The wading pool is two feet deep and is a quiet pool, so is ideal for guests looking to take in a more relaxing time. The pool also has some absolutely incredible views that will make this secluded spot a must-do for anyone looking for a quiet time.

If the Finding Nemo -themed splash pads on the Disney Dream and Fantasy have been a hit with your kids, they’ll love the bathtub-themed Toy Story Splash Zone! on the Disney Wish. The water playground is inspired by the Disney/Pixar short  Partysaurus Rex and was designed with families in mind. The splash zone is ideal for toddlers and younger children to have fun on board.

Notice how Toy Story ‘s heroes and villains have been reimagined as huge rubber bath toys that move and spray water. The splash zone also features two toddler-sized slides, pop jets, geysers, and bubblers.

Nearby, you’ll find Trixie’s Falls, which is a six-inch-deep wading pool complete with a fountain and waterfall. On the same deck, you’ll also find Slide-a-Saurus Rex, which is a kid-friendly smaller water slide than the nearby AquaMouse.

Disney Wish Pools for Adults

Along with pools that accept all ages, you’ll find an adults-only pool that is just for ages 18 and up. Located on Deck 13 you can find Quiet Cove, which includes an adults-only infinity pool, bar, and lounge.

Quiet Cove is located far from the ship’s family activities making it the perfect spot for guests 18 years of age and older to unwind…without kids. Located on Deck 13, the Quiet Cove is home to an infinity pool, bar, and lounge.

The lounge, Cove Bar, is themed to  Moana , and the perfect spot to grab a cocktail or international coffee. You can enjoy these delicious beverages with stunning views of the sea. Check out our full review here .

Disney Wish Pool Slides

You’ll find two major water slides on the Disney Wish, the Slide-a-Saurus Rex, as well as the AquaMouse water coaster. The AquaMouse made history as the first high-speed water coaster on a Disney Cruise Line ship, featuring two animated adventures set to a score by The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse composer, Christopher Willis.

AquaMouse (Deck 12)

The AquaMouse is far from your average cruise ship waterslide. The AquaMouse is “a thrilling high-speed water coaster down a flume that includes sharp turns and loud noises.”

To ride AquaMouse, there’s a minimum height requirement of 42” and guests must be 48” tall to ride their raft alone. An impressive 760 feet of tubes wrap around the Disney Wish’s upper deck. As you zip around through the tubes, you’ll take in gorgeous ocean views.

AquaMouse offers two original animated adventures: Scuba Scramble and Swiss Meltdown . Set to a score by The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse composer, Christopher Willis, this waterslide is simply splash- tacular! You can watch our ride-through of the attraction below!

Slide-a-saurus Rex (Deck 12)

What happens when the bathtub overflows? Kids can take a ride down Slide-a-Saurus Rex to find out! Keeping with the bathtub theme, this double-looping waterslide takes kids on a trip “down the drain.”

Don’t get too distracted by the 60+ water blasters, misters, and pop jets. There are Disney Easter Eggs to be found! Being the resourceful chipmunks that they are, Chip and Dale are hitchhiking their way to Castaway Cay and can be spotted in each animated story.

Want More Disney Wish Coverage?

Check out the DCL Magazine Instagram and DCL Magazine Facebook page for more Disney Wish coverage. Don’t forget to join the waiting list for DCL Magazine too!

Thanks to Disney for hosting us during the Christening Cruise of the Disney Wish. As part of a media preview we were able to enjoy a 3-night sailing, tour the facilities, speak with Imagineers and Cast Members who brought the ship to life, visit Castaway Cay, and enjoy many of the onboard offerings. #DisneyCruise #DisneyWish #DisneyChristening

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Disney Cruise Line: The Pools

Everything you need to know about Disney cruise ships pools!

Family Pools 

Every Disney ship offers a family pool, which is located mid-ship and has a HUGE movie screen playing Disney Movies all day and all night long. You will also find splash areas for the Little’s, and lots of quick service dining options.

Only children who are fully potty trained are allowed in the pool. Children wearing swim diapers are welcome to use the splash areas. Disney is very strict with this!

Water Slides 

Every Disney ship offers some sort of water slide. The larger ships, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, offer a water coaster called Aqua Duck that whips you around the top of the ship. Disney Magic and Disney Wonder have a water slide called Aqua Dunk, with a free-fall plunge into a slide.

Are you interested in booking your own Disney Cruise? Contact your Must Love Travel Planner today!

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They don’t call it the Disney DREAM for nothin’…

The Disney Dream was the third ship to join the ever-expanding Disney Cruise Line fleet. (Seriously… have you heard that the NEW Disney Destiny was just announced ??) The Disney Dream introduced a new class of ships to the line — the Dream Class, of course! And if it’s YOUR dream to sail on this magical ship, then we hope you’ll join us as we explore everything you and your traveling crew need to know about cruising on the Disney Dream!

Disney Dream Overview

The Disney Dream took its Maiden Voyage with passengers on January 26, 2011. The Disney Fantasy, which followed with its first sailing in 2012, is the sister ship to the Disney Dream.

So, in both its size and structure (with 14 Decks and 1,250 Staterooms) and passenger capacity (a whopping 4,000!), it is similar to the Disney Fantasy. That said, each ship boasts some of their own distinguishing features.

These start right in the ship’s Art deco-inspired Atrium, where a golden statue of Admiral Donald Duck himself welcomes you aboard!

Of course, among additional varied features, the ship’s itineraries differ as well…

Disney Dream Destinations

The Disney Dream primarily offers Bahamian cruises departing from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida .

However, the summer of 2024 holds something very unique in store for passengers on the Dream, as the ship is destined for Europe following a Transatlantic voyage from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona ! Sailings over the summer include Mediterranean (including the Greek Isles), British Isles, Western Europe, and Norwegian Fjords (with one sailing including Iceland) cruises.

When the Dream returns stateside, she’ll depart again from Fort Lauderdale to offer Bahamian and Caribbean cruises, and select sailings will include a stop at Disney Cruise Line’s NEW island destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point (and, of course, Disney Cruise Line’s beloved Castaway Cay )!

Check out Disney Cruise Line’s itineraries for Summer 2025 here!

Disney dream entertainment.

Unique Disney Cruise Line entertainment kicks things off RIGHT AWAY as your cruise starts with a Sailing Away Deck Party!

When I say “unique” that’s because the pals joining you in the entertainment throughout the voyage are none other than Disney characters!

Select sailings also present Disney Cruise Line’s famous Pirate Night (complete with FIREWORKS at sea!). And don’t forget: your CREW is invited to don all the Pirate-y garb you can pack in yer suitcase, matey!

When it comes to entertainment options, Disney Cruise Line is best known for its Broadway-style productions — presented in the Walt Disney Theatre — that tie in characters, beloved stories, and treasured music from the Disney films.

The three shows that guests can enjoy on the Disney Dream are Beauty and the Beast , The Golden Mickeys, and Disney’s Believe.

Currently exclusive to the Disney Dream, Beauty and the Beast brings the “Tale As Old As Time” to you live on stage!

In addition to seeing the characters and hearing the songs you already know and love from the animated film, this production also includes two new pieces written by Alan Menken and Tim Rice from the live-action film.

While Beauty and the Beast puts the focus on one Disney film, Disney’s Believe and The Golden Mickeys bring together oodles and oodles of Disney stories, characters, and signature songs!  In Disney’s Believe , which Disney shares is a “spellbinding musical about a workaholic father who reconnects with his daughter through a little Disney magic,” you’ll see familiar friends from Peter Pan, Aladdin, Cinderella, The Lion King , and The Princess and the Frog.

The Golden Mickeys is “a dazzling tribute to the enchanting movies of Walt Disney” (and it includes a red carpet pre-show!). Featured Disney films include — but aren’t limited to — Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, Mulan, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Toy Story 2.

P.S. You can pay a visit to Preludes before the show to pick up some popcorn (or perhaps a cocktail) to enjoy in the theatre!

Disney Dream Water Features

Passengers of all ages can make a BIG SPLASH on Deck 11 (and even a bit higher…) of the Disney Dream! Let’s start with that part that’s “a bit higher…”

We’re talking about the Aqua Duck , the water coaster that made its debut on the Dream!

To ride, guests enter on Deck 12. From here? As the Disney Cruise Line website shares, you’ll take a 2-person raft on “a wet and wild journey up, down, around and off the side of the ship, through the Forward Funnel—on a daredevil 4-deck drop.”

Be aware, though, that there is a height requirement of 42 inches or taller to ride (and single riders must be at least 54 inches).

Water areas for all ages include Donald’s Pool on Deck 11, as well as a wading pool on Deck 12.

Specifically for the kiddos is Mickey’s Pool , and Nemo’s Reef in particular is a splash area for those 8 and under.

Mickeys Slide , however, can be enjoyed by passengers ages 4 to 14.

The Quiet Cove Pool is reserved for guests over 18 years of age only, as is the Satellite Falls wading pool, complete with a cooling rain curtain. In the same area, adult guests can enjoy a cocktail at the Currents pool bar (the Waves bar is another option), or step inside the Cove Café for a specialty coffee.

Disney Dream Staterooms

The Disney Dream offers four categories of staterooms: Inside, Oceanview, Verandah, and Concierge. Many of the rooms feature Disney’s innovative split bathroom which allows more guests in a cabin the chance to get ready at one time.

While each category boasts amenities such as premium mattresses and linens, a 22″ LCD flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, and a surprising amount of storage space, there are many more details to explore among the varying categories, so we’ve dedicated a page to those options here .

Looking for ALL the Stateroom details for the Disney Dream? Click HERE!

Disney dream dining.

As with all the other ships in the fleet, the Disney Dream presents a wide array of options, starting with a Disney Cruise Line signature: Rotational Dining!

Rotational Dining means that guests have the chance to enjoy dinner at ALL THREE of the ships main dining rooms, each with their own theme and specialty menus on select nights. The best part is that, as you move to a different restaurant each evening, so do your servers! They “rotate” right along with you so they can get to know your group’s dining preferences.

The three Rotational Dining restaurants on the Disney Dream are Animator’s Palate, Enchanted Garden , and Royal Palace.

Animator’s Palate is an innovative restaurant where the show is drawings coming to life on screens all around you. Undersea Magic immerses diners in the world of  Finding Nemo .

Dinner at the Royal Palace features French and continental cuisine in the opulence of the classic Disney fairytales Cinderella, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Sleeping Beauty and Beauty and the Beast.

At Enchanted Garden, guests enjoy their meal as the restaurant changes as flowers bloom and the “sky” fades from day to night.

Be aware that Royal Palace and Enchanted Garden may also serve breakfast and lunch during a sailing, offering guests a full service option if they prefer not to dine buffet or quick service style.

A number of options are available throughout the day, as well. Cabanas hosts a massive buffet for both breakfast and lunch. Help yourself!

Also on Deck 11, several Quick Service options serve classics like burgers, hot dogs, chicken strips and fries, pizza, and healthier fare like salads and sandwiches. These are all available at Flo’s Cafe , which is divided into three different stations: Luigi’s Pizza, Tow Mater’s Grill, and Fillmore’s Favorites.

P.S. Don’t forget to follow up any and all of that with some soft-serve ice cream at Eye Scream Treats!

Additional treats — including scoops from a Gelato Bar —  are available for extra purchase at Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats , a charming spot themed to Disney’s Wreck-It Ralph .

And did you know that ROOM SERVICE is available for breakfast or snacks 24 HOURS A DAY??  The vast majority of items are INCLUDED in the cruise price!

Disney Dream Adult Spaces

In addition to the Quiet Cove mentioned earlier, the Disney Dream offers more areas reserved just for grown-ups. These include the fine dining restaurant, Palo , which may be booked for dinner for an additional charge per adult.

Additionally, the famous Palo Brunch is available for booking during sea days! This option is incredibly popular, so advance booking through your Disney Cruise Line account is recommended.

Be aware, as well, that Palo does have a dress code. The Disney Cruise Line website states: “Formal or semi-formal attire is recommended. Also permitted is dress-casual attire with a polished look, such as dress pants, jeans in good condition, collared shirts, dressy tops and lifestyle shoes. For brunch at Palo and Palo Steakhouse, dress shorts are acceptable. Clothing such as T-shirts, swimwear and sports attire are not permitted.”

The Disney Dream is also home to Remy, another adults only option that adheres to a slightly more strict dress code than Palo: Jackets for men (or collared shirt for brunch) are required and no jeans, shorts, capri pants, sneakers, or open toed shoes.

The cuisine is exceptional French fare and reservations are required.

By the way, before or after your special meal, you might stop at Meridian , a lounge overlooking the back of the ship!

Ready to relax with a drink, or maybe even do a little dancing? Adults can pay a visit to The District , featuring several lounges, each with their own distinct style and atmosphere. District Lounge , for instance, is a relaxing piano bar, while Evolution presents late-night entertainment like dancing, games, karaoke, and comedy shows.

Pink is a Wine and Champagne Bar, while Skyline Lounge immerses you in a “sleek sky bar” boasting views of some of the world’s most iconic skylines!

Meanwhile, sports fans can catch a game at Pub 687. 

Adults might also opt to participate in a Mixology Class or Beverage Tasting Seminar for an extra fee. Featured liqueur and cocktail options include — but aren’t limited to — rum, tequila and margaritas, whiskey, champagne tastings, and more!

Advance booking is highly recommended for these fun and VERY popular opportunities!

The Senses Spa & Salon offers a wide array of services and treatments. (And the Rainforest Room provides an especially relaxing oasis!) Select experiences are available for pre-booking, and you can stop by Senses to inquire about prices for the Rainforest Room and other treatments during your cruise. And the Fitness Center offers workout machines and classes.

And though this is not limited to adults, keep in mind that if you’d like to get a jog or two in, Deck 4 hosts a walking track!

Disney Dream Kids Clubs and Experiences

But what about the kids? Oh, don’t you worry… there are specific areas on the ship dedicated to children, offering experiences tailored for ages from infants to teens!

The It’s a Small World Nursery is available for ages 6 months to 3 years old (save for the Transatlantic cruise, during which the nursery welcomes ages 1 to 3 years old).

Be aware that the Disney Cruise Line website states that “Reservations can be made on a first-come, first-served basis during the open house on Embarkation Day or anytime throughout your cruise. Childcare at “it’s a small world” nursery! is available at an additional fee.” Disney also emphasizes that space is limited.

Meanwhile, Disney’s Oceaneer Club AND Disney’s Oceaneer Lab are available for children ages 3 to 10. The Oceaneer Lab specializes in learning while having FUN!

The Oceaneer Club features activities such as character experiences, storytime, and play areas. (There are also specific guided activities for the littlest ones, ages 3 and 4.)

On the Dream, the Oceaneer Club features the following playful spaces: Andy’s Room (that’s Andy from Toy Story ), the Disney Infinity Game Room, Pixie Hollow , and Star Wars : Millennium Falcon.

Keep in mind that Youth Activities counselors are present at all times in these spaces. Parents will want to know that spaces for your child can be pre-registered via your Disney Cruise Line account, and registration may also take place onboard the ship.

Tweens (ages 11 to 14) can gather at the Edge to hang out, watch movies, play games and make friends during group activities with fun Disney counselors and more. And you want to know something really cool? Edge is located in the ship’s Forward Funnel on Deck 13!

Vibe offers cruisers ages 14 to 17 similar activities geared to their age group, or simply a place to chill. It even boasts its own sun deck on the Dream.

We’ve got one more thing to mention, though it’s not a club, per se. For an extra fee, your little Prince or Princess age 3 to 12 can get a makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique .

Disney Princess, knight, and sea captain-themed packages are available… and there’s an exclusive makeover for Pirate Party Nights!

But we’re STILL not done… because children ages 3-12 can partake in a special tea party with Disney characters. Children get gifts including a jewelry box, tiara, bracelet, necklace, a Cinderella doll, and autograph book. Alternatively they can opt for a package including a cinch bag, sword, shield, pins, Duffy plush, and autograph book. The Disney Cruise Line site will have pricing information available when you book via your Disney Cruise Line account in advance.

Disney Dream Activities

Still want MORE to do 😉 ? That’s good, because the Disney Dream has GOT MORE! D Lounge, for example, is the place to be for family fun with events like game shows and trivia, dance parties,  and more.

Catch a movie on the big screen at the Buena Vista Theatre ! You might choose to watch a Disney animated classic, or maybe a Star Wars or Marvel flick. You never know… your sailing just might feature a first-run Disney feature film at sea! “Funnel Vision” on the pool deck shows movies on the big screen, too.

You can find basketball courts and ping-pong tables on Goofy’s Sports Deck. (My personal favorite option here? It’s 9-hole MINI GOLF!)

Want to explore all sorts of areas on the ship while SOLVING A MYSTERY, to boot? Then get ready to play Midship Detective Agency.  You and your fellow detectives will interact with “enchanted art” in locations all over the ship to gather clues and crack a case wide open! In fact, there are 3 cases to solve (including, but not limited to a MUPPETS-themed caper), so you can play several times — on your own or with your crew — if you like!

And let’s not forget that throughout your cruise, you can meet, hug, get autographs from and pose for pictures with your favorite DISNEY PALS!

Sailing with you are the Fab Five (that’s Mickey and the gang), Disney Princesses, friends from Frozen , and more! Be aware that, while all Character Greetings are included with your cruise, select Greeting times may require advance booking.

Seasonal Sailings

Depending on the time of year, you may find that a special seasonal cruise is in store! For instance, select sailings on the Dream offer a Marvel Day at Sea !

And all ships in the fleet present Halloween on the High Seas in September and October, while Very Merrytime Cruises sail in November and December.

Disney Cruise Line Navigator App

Whew! As you can tell, there’s a LOT happening on the Disney Dream! To keep track of what’s happening when and where, be sure to download the free Disney Cruise Line Navigator app before your cruise.

This is where you can easily find ALL of the activities mentioned throughout this post, book select experiences, check out menus for the ship’s dining locations, and MUCH more!

Join the AllEars.net Newsletter  to get the free list of 50 tips for going on a Disney Cruise! Click here to get started!

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Disney Dream cruise ship review: Mostly magic with a bit of mayhem

TPG's Erica Silverstein accepted a free trip from Disney Cruise Line to cruise on Disney Dream. The opinions expressed below are entirely hers and weren't subject to review by the line.

A Disney Dream cruise is not just for families with young children who love Mickey Mouse and princesses. Disney lovers of all ages, including many couples who choose to get married on board or on the cruise line's private island, will appreciate setting sail in an immersive Disney atmosphere.

A Disney Dream sailing is also attractive to travelers who love a good show, as the ship offers stellar musicals, captivating deck parties and all the movies you can watch from the many Disney-owned production companies (Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and more). Cruisers seeking a more midsize ship, with attentive service and plenty of activities geared toward both kids and adults, will not be disappointed.

Unsurprisingly, Disney Cruise Line does themed sailings well. My five-night Western Caribbean cruise was a Very Merrytime sailing, complete with holiday decorations throughout the ship, seasonal shows and activities, and visits from Santa. Mickey and friends, as well as my fellow passengers, were sporting red and green attire, too. The ship gets equally passionate about Halloween and Marvel-themed sailings.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

A Disney cruise might be a magical experience for some, but Disney Dream isn't perfect. On my cruise, dining venues were crowded and loud, and the lobby atrium and pool deck did not have enough space for all the cruisers who wanted to watch the signature shows. Cruisers looking for varied nightlife might be disappointed that many adults are tied up with childcare at night and unable to venture out to the adults-only bars and lounges.

A cruise aboard Disney Dream is pricey, especially when compared with family-friendly lines such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line . Make sure that Disney Dream is the ship for you by learning everything you need to know about the ship — from its cabins to its restaurants, attractions and activities — as well as my take on where the ship excels and where it misses the mark.

Overview of Disney Dream

The 130,000-ton Disney Dream contains 1,250 cabins and can carry 2,500 passengers at double occupancy and 4,000 at maximum capacity. That makes it small for a family ship when comparing it to Royal Caribbean's family favorite Oasis Class ships. The biggest Oasis Class ship, Wonder of the Seas , for example, measures 236,857 tons — 82% bigger than Disney Dream — and carries 5,734 passengers at double occupancy or 6,988 passengers when full.

The ship also stands apart from competitors in that it defies categorization. The ship would be considered mass-market because it offers a range of cabins from windowless insides through suites, appeals to families, does not focus on gourmet food or high-end finishings, and does not offer all-inclusive fares.

Yet Disney Dream's sailings are priced higher than most family-friendly cruise ships because the Disney brand commands a premium. Plus, you could argue that the service levels are higher and the entertainment is of a higher quality than on Royal Caribbean, Carnival or Norwegian Cruise Line ships.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

So who's on board? Obviously, families with young children make up a large fraction of Disney Dream's passenger base. You'll find babies, kids and teens, as well as three-generation groups and extended family or friend groups. Yet the ship also attracts adults who are Disney fans or appreciate Disney's entertainment and service. It is common for couples to plan onboard weddings or take their honeymoon on a Disney cruise.

Because Disney cruise fares are so high, most Disney Dream passengers are willing to spend money, either because they have a high vacation budget or have saved up for a special trip where they will pull out all the stops. I was surprised how many passengers were paying extra for princess makeovers at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, high-priced Disney paraphernalia from the onboard shops, and souvenir drink and popcorn containers.

The other thing to recognize about Disney Dream is that the kid activities are central and the adult amenities peripheral. The pool deck features several bars, but they are tucked away at the ends of the deck, not set out by the main pool. The sports pub, nightclub and other themed bars are hidden at the back end of Deck 4 in a warren of interconnected rooms that aren't always easy to find, and the adults-only specialty restaurants are relegated to a quiet corner at the top of the ship. There is no casino on board.

Because so many of the adults on board are traveling with children, not all are free to go out at night. So, some adult venues and evening activities can be sparsely populated. (Others generate a larger crowd, though.) On the upside, I did not encounter obviously inebriated folks on this cruise — though that could be because I, like so many adults, was traveling with a child and not often in the adult spaces.

What I loved about Disney Dream

The crew and waiters.

Every cruise line promotes the attentiveness of its crew, but the Disney Dream crew really shined, especially our waiters, who traveled with us from restaurant to restaurant. They quickly learned our preferences, bringing us our preferred drinks as we sat down, giving us butter in addition to the day's dip for the bread and remembering our tea preferences.

Our main waiter, Richard, always had a riddle or magic trick for the kids in his section, and Afandi, our assistant waiter, made origami for the kids each night. They would patiently listen as our 7-year-old companion told them jokes and stories, even though they were busy delivering meals and clearing plates.

Our room steward, Panca, left us towel animals every day and always inquired if there was anything we needed. The kids club counselors were always welcoming and ready to answer any parent questions. The entertainment staff did a great job involving as many kids as possible in the activities and were friendly and patient.

I love a good Broadway show, but the song-and-dance revues featured on so many cruise lines often fall flat. The singing ranges from great to mediocre, and while the costume changes and high-tech effects are cool, the shows don't always have a strong thread connecting the various numbers.

Disney Cruise Line takes a different approach — a more Disney approach, if you will. Disney Dream offers three featured musicals, all with a clear story to tell. Adults can appreciate the strong performances and creative use of costumes and scenery, and kids enjoy seeing some of their favorite characters and stories come to life on stage.

This was especially true of the ship's version of "Beauty and the Beast," an abridged version of the story based on the live-action movie. Kids and adults alike were riveted in their seats for an hour and a half, and the performances were stellar, with some of the actors even hailing from Broadway.

The only downside to the shows being so good is that you never want to miss one. That meant my friend and I never sent her daughter to the kids club after dinner, which would have allowed us to enjoy one of the ship's bars and an after-dinner cocktail together.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Palo brunch

I'd heard from many people that brunch at Palo was amazing, and the experience did not disappoint. If you can sneak away for a couple hours, it's a lovely way to enjoy a relaxed, quiet, kid-free meal without missing one of the featured rotational restaurants. It's also good value, leading some people to claim it's the best $50 you can spend on a Disney cruise .

Our waiter, Victor, was as handsome and charming as any Disney prince. He brought us passionfruit mimosas when my friend said she didn't care for orange juice. We started the meal with a bread basket, and the almond croissants were the best I'd ever had, warm and flaky with a delicious almond filling that elevated the pastry.

The menu is so varied that it's hard to choose. Winners included poached eggs with spinach, asparagus and mornay sauce and the goat cheese flatbread. The mushroom ravioli fell flat, but that was OK because I was getting pretty full by then. The chocolate hazelnut dessert was thankfully small because I only had room for a few delectable bites.

My tip: Book an early brunch, and don't eat anything beforehand. You will definitely want to arrive hungry and with a very empty stomach.

Family-friendly cabins

Disney really thought about what families need in a living space when it designed the cabins on its ships, including Disney Dream. As a mom who has cruised with kids since they were babies, I understand the unique challenges families face when sharing a small cabin together. Disney does, too, and has created cabins to eliminate some of those challenges.

It starts with the split bathrooms, one with sink and toilet and the other with sink and shower. That means two can brush their teeth at once, and if a little person suddenly has to go potty when Daddy is in the shower, it's not a problem.

The cabins have plentiful storage space with lots of drawers because little kid clothing does not fit on grown-up hangers. Our cabin host even left a kid-size bathrobe in the closet, along with the two adult-size ones.

There's a dim light on the ceiling of the room's living area where kids will sleep in sofabeds and pulldown bunks to serve as a nightlight. A floor-to-ceiling curtain can extend across the entire room to separate the kids' sleeping areas from the adults. This way, adults can have the lights on in their section of the room after bedtime.

Even the balconies have childproof locks high up on the door, so you can prevent kiddos from sneaking onto the veranda without adult supervision.

What I didn't love about Disney Dream

Crowds and queues.

Disney does not get everything magically right, unfortunately. One way its ships resemble its parks is in the crowds and wait times for nearly everything.

I was dismayed at how much time we spent on this cruise waiting around. Sometimes, it was waiting in the always-long lines for a meet-and-greet and photo opp with characters or to drop off or pick up kids at the Oceaneer Club. I waited 40 minutes on a sea-day afternoon to ride the AquaDuck, and there was no entertainment in that line, as there might be at a Disney park water attraction.

Any show we wanted to see involved arriving early to get seats, occasionally waiting in line to enter the theater. Show up late to one of the Pirate Night shows or any of the events in the atrium lobby, and you will have terrible sightlines and be unable to see much of the show.

The ship also felt small for the number of people it carried, possibly because of bad design and passenger flow. Unless you go very early or late, the pool deck and its two pools are insanely crowded. Even the dining rooms felt like tables were pushed extremely close together, and it was so loud that I often had to raise my voice or lean across the table to converse with my tablemates. Walking through crowded areas was also tricky since kids would veer unpredictably while ambling slowly, so it was hard to get by; both parents and kids would block stairwells or corridors.

The crowding did make the adult areas feel like a respite. Still, the Quiet Cove sun deck and pool area fill up.

Nightlife district

The majority of Disney Dream's indoor bars and adult lounge areas are grouped together in a warren of interconnected rooms at the back of Deck 4. The District is meant to be a happening nightlife area, but I found it to be more of a dark, confusing afterthought.

I liked the vibe in the pub, with comfy seating and windows to the outside, and the whimsical Champagne bar Pink with its bubbles and corset theming. But the other bars were dark and not necessarily inviting. There was one bar, Skyline, that I could not find until I got turned around in a stairwell and happened upon it.

Related: 5 reasons why Disney cruises aren't just for kids

A member of the ship's entertainment team told me that evening adult events were hit or miss as far as attendance goes. It makes sense — I found that by the time I ate dinner and attended the show, it was time to put my friend's kid to bed. I could have ditched them to hang out in a bar on my own, but that wasn't an attractive option.

Disney Dream cabins and suites

The cabins and suites on Disney Dream were designed with families in mind, more so than on nearly every other cruise ship afloat. Cabins come in various categories, with many that can sleep families of three or four. Most have a split bathroom design, with two half baths; one contains a toilet and sink, the other a sink and shower (or shower-tub combo).

My cabin was a balcony room that could accommodate three, with a queen-size bed and a sofa that flips into a twin bed. I was dismayed to discover that, unlike every other ocean-going cruise ship I've sailed, the queen bed did not split into two twins. This forced my friend and I to share a bed. (Cabins that can sleep four will have a pull-down bunk above the sofa bed.)

The room is split in two by a floor-to-ceiling height, full-width blackout curtain, so we could put my friend's daughter to bed on the couch, turn off the lights on her side of the room and then read in bed with the lights on. One downside of this arrangement is that the small flat-screen TV is in the living area, not the bedroom, so we couldn't watch a late-night movie. Another downside: The blackout curtains effectively turned the adult sleeping area into an inside cabin with no natural light.

In addition to the sofa bed, the cabin's living area features a desk with two 110V and one 220V outlets, three deep drawers (perfect for storing kid clothing), a minifridge, the aforementioned TV, an open cabinet with two narrow shelves, a closed cabinet with two tall shelves and a mirror. One of the many light switches by the desk turns on a dim overhead light that can be used as a nightlight. A low-backed chair can be positioned at the desk or turned around to face the coffee table when dining in your cabin.

The master bed is flanked by two small nightstands, each with one drawer, and reading lamps. Only one side of the bed has a 110V and 220V outlet; the other has the cabin's phone. The closet is divided into two sections, both with hanging space and some open shelves. Adjacent is a shelving unit with three deep drawers and a tall two-shelf open cabinet above. The bed is high enough for suitcases, or your small child, to fit underneath.

I found the storage perfectly adequate for two adults and a child on a five-night cruise, and the room could likely handle belongings for a seven-night or longer cruise, as well.

The narrow balcony features two metal and mesh upright chairs and a round metal drinks table. It has a childproof lock you can choose to use to prevent little cruisers from venturing out on the balcony unattended.

The bathroom with the toilet and sink offers three small glass shelves for storing toiletries; the shower room has two. Our bathroom had a tub/shower combo, and at 6 feet tall, I came close to hitting my head on the ceiling; I could not wash my hair without removing the wand showerhead from its holder and reaching it up as far its cord would go.

Each bathroom comes with a refillable hand soap dispenser; the shower room also offers bar soap and refillable containers of Disney brand shampoo, conditioner and shower gel in the tub. You'll find tissue dispensers in each. The shower room has a full-length mirror on the back of the door, which is useful, but this means there are no hooks on the door to hang extra items. There are, however, two retractable clotheslines in the shower and two large hooks on the wall between the bathroom and the sleeping area.

Less expensive cabins are either windowless insides with "magical portholes" (round video screens set in a window frame that display images from outside the ship with some cameos from animated characters) or ocean-view rooms with a round porthole window that does not open.

Higher-tier cabins include Concierge-level cabins and suites that grant you access to the exclusive Concierge lounge and sun deck on decks 12 and 13, respectively. These rooms come in three styles: a balcony cabin, a one-bedroom suite and a Royal Suite, all with private verandas. They come with upgraded amenities and privileges, such as included Wi-Fi, a pillow menu, feather duvets and priority for check-in and debarkation, tendering and reservations.

Wheelchair-accessible cabins come in nearly every cabin category except the Royal Suite.

Related: The 3 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

Disney Dream restaurants and bars

The Disney dining experience is a bit different than what you might have experienced on other cruise ships . The line employs a "rotational dining" system in which you choose early or late seating (5:45 and 8:15 p.m. on my sailing). Then, each night, you are assigned to one of three restaurants each evening. You "rotate" through all the options during the course of your cruise, and your waiters move with you. This way, you can build a rapport, and they can get to know your dining preferences.

Disney Dream does not offer a buffet alternative at dinner, though you can order room service or pick up burgers and chicken tenders at Tow Mater's Grill on the pool deck. If you choose these options or if the adults in your party make a reservation at the adults-only specialty restaurants, Palo and Remy, you might miss out on one of the themed main dining room experiences.

Restaurants

Overall, the food on Disney is fine, but the emphasis is less on impressive food and more on creating an experience that children will enjoy. The waiters work hard, not only taking orders and serving food, but cutting up food for kids or entertaining them with riddles and origami.

Each of the three main restaurants serves its own menu, but on some nights, each menu will serve the same menu, such as the "welcome aboard" menu on night one and a Caribbean-themed menu on pirate night. Every menu is divided into appetizers, soups and salads, main courses, vegetarian options, lighter options and dessert (which always includes an ice cream sundae and a sugar-free option).

The kids menu varies nightly, but is the same at each restaurant on any given day. It's divided into appetizers (a different soup each night and a garden salad), mains (macaroni and cheese, mini burgers, pizza and a changing option such as kid-sized surf and turf) and Disney Check Meals (combo dinners served with a main such as baked cod or penne pasta, a vegetable and fruit).

Mickey ice cream bars are the favorite dessert here; ice cream is also available, as well as a changing dessert such as a chocolate brownie with ice cream or white chocolate cheesecake.

Related: Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock when setting sail with Mickey

Unlike the venues on Disney's newer ships, the three main restaurants on Disney Dream have less of a theatrical aspect to them, though all are themed.

The design of the Enchanted Garden restaurant on Deck 2 was inspired by the Gardens of Versailles, and its menu claims to be market-style and international. Try the ahi tuna and avocado tower as a starter and the scallops or the prime rib for your main. The signature pecan tart was a nod to Thanksgiving on a Christmas-themed cruise.

Right above the Enchanted Garden on Deck 3 is the Royal Palace, inspired by four princesses — Cinderella, Snow White, Belle and Aurora (Sleeping Beauty). See if you can find iconic images from their stories around the dining room. Dinner here is the perfect time to wear your princess dress to dinner or dress up a little.

The menu is French, with starters like escargot and baked brie. Mains include duck breast, rack of lamb and Chateaubriand-roasted steak. For dessert, consider the grand marnier souffle or the apple tart tartin.

Royal Palace was also the sit-down option for breakfast and lunch on our cruise. Breakfast offers a nice selection of fruit and yogurt, breakfast pastries and egg and griddle options. A kids menu features fun-sized versions of eggs, pancakes, Mickey waffles and yogurt with fruit. Signature adult breakfasts include a savory power crepe, a plant-based hot breakfast for the vegans among us, southern hash and brioche French toast.

Most families stick to casual options for lunch, but if you want a sit-down, multicourse meal, the Royal Palace is there for you. The lunch menu is split into a choice of soups and salads, small plates (such as beef satay skewers or tomato and mozzarella bruschetta), chef's recommendations (churrasco steak, spiced cod fillet), burgers (including a turkey burger and Impossible burger), pasta, a handful of kid-friendly options and dessert (typically one is a sundae). Sit-down lunch is a great option on embarkation day when you don't want to drag your bags around a crowded buffet.

Animator's Palate, on Deck 3 aft (essentially behind the Royal Palace), is the night to experience dinner with a show. Video screens around the animation-themed restaurant come to life with characters from "Finding Nemo" and "Finding Dory," with a surprising interactive element. I enjoyed the butternut squash soup, ginger-teriyaki beef tenderloin and the cookies and cream sundae for dessert.

I generally found the three main restaurants loud, with tables spaced extremely close together. (At Animator's Palate, our table was separated from the next by the width of the ice bucket for our bottle of Prosecco.) Dinners are not relaxing events, even though the waiters are outstanding, keeping the kids entertained with riddles, magic tricks and origami.

Perhaps that is why Disney Dream's two specialty restaurants are exclusive to adults over 18. They offer a nice break for the grown-ups in the group to have a quieter, more upscale meal in a less crowded setting. Both the French Remy and Italian Palo are on Deck 12, separated by the Meridian Bar.

Palo is open for brunch on sea days and dinner daily, both for $50 per person. Brunch is a highlight and a great value for all the food they give you. The meal starts with a complimentary Prosecco or mimosa and a bread basket that includes not-to-be-missed warm almond croissants.

Then you can choose as many breakfast or lunch entrees as you'd like; the poached eggs with spinach, asparagus and mornay sauce and the goat cheese flatbread (pizza) were standouts from our brunch. You can also select from frittatas, waffles and pancakes, and mains like lasagna Bolognese, sirloin steak, veal and parmesan-crusted chicken breast.

After you've completely stuffed yourself, the waiters have the audacity to offer dessert. We sampled the warm amaretto chocolate fondant and the limoncello torte; while tasty, they were definitely not necessary to complete your meal.

For dinner in Palo, choose from the $50 fixed-price menu (a four-course meal with limited options for each), upgrade to the wine-paired menu or order a la carte from the full menu. The chocolate souffle dessert is the signature sweet and should be ordered at the beginning of the meal.

Remy is one of the most expensive specialty restaurants at sea, with menus by acclaimed chefs Scott Hunnel (from Victoria & Albert's at Walt Disney World Resort) and Arnaud Lallement (of Michelin star fame). Disney Dream offers two set menus, one by each chef, for $135 per person, with wine and Champagne pairings for an additional $120 and $160, respectively. You can also order a la carte.

For casual dining, Disney Dream does offer a buffet option on the Deck 11 pool deck. Cabanas serves breakfast and lunch only. In the morning, you'll find all the staples: eggs, breakfast meat, pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, pancakes and the famous Mickey waffles. An omelet station is tucked away at the back.

At lunch, you can find pizza and burgers, an array of hot entrees, soup, premade salads, a huge stash of shrimp and crab legs, pasta, deli meat and desserts (including ice cream). Look for themed sections that change daily.

I found Cabanas to have a nice variety of dishes (and the creamiest steam tray scrambled eggs I've had on a cruise to date). However, the layout is awful. The buffet is all one line, rather than station-based, and there is not a lot of room to walk around the venue. The result is that lines are long, and it's tricky to navigate through (say, if you're walking from the beverage station back to your table). This is especially true if you get stuck behind slow-moving, unpredictable small children who are somehow impossible to get around.

Related: Cruise ship buffet taboos: 10 things you should never do at mealtime

Unlike other mass-market cruise ships, Disney Dream offers free soda with meals and from beverage stations along the pool deck sides and in Cabanas (where you'll also find water, juice, coffee, tea and hot chocolate). Bring your own refillable drink containers to avoid waste because the poolside stations only offer paper cups, not reusable glasses and mugs.

For a snack or simpler meal, a trio of food counters, collectively known as Flo's Cafe, on the opposite end of the pool deck from Cabanas offers all the kid favorites. Luigi's Pizza serves up five types of pie daily; Tow-Mater's Grill cooks up burgers, chicken, hot dogs and sausages, plus chicken tenders and French fries; and Fillmore's Favorites serves a range of paninis, wraps, salads and fruit bowls. Be aware that while these venues are open all afternoon, only Tow-Mater's is open for dinner; Luigi's Pizza opens again at 9 p.m. for late-night snacks.

Poolside treats include the Eye Scream station with three soft-serve machines pumping out multiple flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, banana and strawberry. Frozone Treats next door offers extra-fee smoothies and refreshing drinks with and without alcohol (such as Dole Whip with a shot of rum).

Room service is complimentary on Disney Dream. You can order continental breakfast items by marking off your selections on a tag and hanging it outside your door before bed. All-day room service is available for order via phone; the menu is on the Navigator app. Selections include soups, salads, American fare (buffalo wings, burgers, chicken tenders), pizza and pasta and dessert. Mickey bars are not on the official room service menu, but can be ordered to your cabin.

If the free treats on this ship aren't enough (which is a concept that's difficult to grasp), you can splurge at Vanellope's Sweet Treats. Indulge with extra-fee ice cream and gelato, crazy sundaes, cupcakes and other baked goods and candy.

Outside the Walt Disney Theatre on Deck 3 is Preludes, where you can buy snacks (popcorn, candy) and drinks to bring into the theater. A secondary outpost of Preludes is outside the Buena Vista Theater on Deck 4.

Parents, be prepared: The pervasive smell of popcorn will have your littles desperate for a snack, and the only way to access popcorn is by purchasing a souvenir popcorn bucket on the first night. The buckets range from $8 to more than $20, but refills are only $1.50.

On a ship where sodas and ice cream bars are complimentary, I was surprised the line charged for popcorn.

On a ship full of kids, it's understandable that adults might need a grown-up beverage or two. Disney Dream accommodates, but the bars are less front and center than perhaps you'd find on other cruise ships.

On Deck 3, the Bon Voyage bar is tucked to one side of the midship elevator banks, between the Grand Lobby and the shopping area. It's in a crowded thoroughfare, so it lacks ambience.

Tucked into a corner on Deck 4 is the Vista Cafe for all your coffee drinks, regular or spiked. It also has a small case of snacks to go with your latte or mocha.

Related: Best cruise ship bars

The District, on Deck 4 aft, is the adult nightlife area, though it's used during the day to host events such as trivia. Grouped together are Pink, a wine and Champagne bar; Evolution, the nightclub and event space; Pub 687, the sports and game bar; Skyline, for bougie martinis with a changing cityscape behind the bar; and the District Lounge for hanging out, sometimes with live music. The District is a dark warren of interconnected rooms, so I only found the Skyline bar halfway through my cruise.

You won't find crowds here, as many adults will be at the family activities in the evening or stuck in their cabins after their kids go to sleep. Fun competitive games, trivia contests, and karaoke in Evolution did get a good-sized audience, but you'll rarely need to search for a seat at any of the venues.

If you're interested in Disney Dream nightlife and are traveling with younger kids, I recommend cruising with extended family or friends; this way, each adult can take turns staying with sleeping children while the others go out. Alternatively, put your kids in Oceaneer Club after dinner and the show, but not every child wants to stay up that late or leave their family for the club.

A buffet of finger foods is put out for an hour each evening to help soak up all that alcohol.

On the upper decks, the Cove Cafe is half coffee shop, half bar by the Quiet Cove adult pool. Grownups don't have to get out of the water to order drinks at the swim-up Cove Bar adjacent to the pool. Forward of the adults area, a juice bar in the Senses Spa will kick start your day or refresh you after a workout with fresh juice blends.

Additional pool bars include the Waves Bar on Deck 12 and the Currents Bar on Deck 13.

Also on Deck 12, the Meridian bar is the perfect place for a pre-dinner cocktail before a meal in the adjacent Remy or Palo. It has both indoor and outdoor seating and is a lovely getaway from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the ship. Passengers booked into Concierge-level cabins can also get drinks at their exclusive Concierge Lounge also on Deck 12.

Disney Dream activities

Disney cruise ships offer a mix of typical and unique-to-Disney activities. Perhaps the most Disney thing you can do on Disney Dream is meet your favorite Disney characters and princesses.

Families have three options: You can sign up for free Royal Gatherings, where you can meet multiple princesses at one time, or extra-fee events, such as the Royal Court Royal Tea. You can look up on the Navigator app when characters will be making appearances and line up for a photo opp and to get an autograph. You'll often find the characters posing in the Grand Lobby or on the balcony just above. Or, you can serendipitously run into a character wandering about the ship.

Even your kids who think they're too cool for Mickey or princess photos will likely become starstruck when they see the characters around the ship and ultimately want a photo or two.

Most kid-friendly activities occur in the multiple Disney cruise kids clubs on board. Most are clustered on Deck 4, where you'll find the It's a Small World Nursery for baby and toddler (up to age 3) daycare for an hourly rate. The Oceaneer Club and Lab offer complimentary drop-off activities for kids ages 3-10. Kids will love flying the Millennium Falcon, playing in Andy's Room, competing in Magic PlayFloor challenges and making crafts in Tinkerbell's Fairy Hollow.

Also on Deck 4 is the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where families can pay for a range of princess, prince and pirate makeovers for young cruisers. If you decide to splurge, choose your salon times wisely. You might not want to get makeup and an updo at 9 a.m. and then be unable to go into the pool for the rest of the day.

Tweens (ages 11-14) have their own hangout called Edge with video games, movies, crafts and group activities in the fake forward funnel on Deck 13. Teens (14-17) can enjoy an indoor lounge with snack bar, video game and movie space, plus a teen-only outdoor sun deck with a plunge pool and hot tub. Vibe, as it's called, is all the way forward on Deck 5, with a secret entrance from the Deck 4 outdoor promenade.

A range of family activities, from crafts to karaoke and dance parties, take place in the D Lounge on Deck 4. (Don't confuse it with the District Lounge next door, which is a bar in the adults-only area.) Some activities are held in the atrium lobby, including the hilarious Jack Jack's Diaper Dash (ie, crawling baby races). Evolution is the destination for evening adult activities, such as trivia, interactive competitions and karaoke.

The other major family-focused destination is, of course, the pool deck. Disney Dream has options for all ages and interests. Deck 11 midship is the main pool area with Mickey's pool and slide (the latter meant for ages 3-14) and the Goofy pool. Life jackets are available for kids who aren't strong swimmers.

A giant poolside screen shows Disney movies during both daytime and evening. Pools are open late so you can watch the evening film from the water. The pool area stage is where the welcome/sailaway show and Pirate's Night shows take place.

The Nemo's Reef splash area is intended for supervised splashing for junior cruisers in swim diapers, though youngsters of all ages are welcome. There is a hot tub by the kids pool, but it's generally full of kids.

Don't worry, Mom and Dad: Adults have their own pool deck, forward on Deck 11. The Quiet Cove pool and hot tub are exclusive to adults over 18 and are surrounded by a swim-up bar, adults-only coffee shop and lounge spaces.

Two decks up, the Satellite Falls pool and sun deck provides additional sunbathing space and a wading pool with a circular rain curtain under the ship's satellite transmitter. A sun deck exclusive to Concierge-level guests is also found on Deck 13.

Between the two on Deck 12 forward is a small family area with the Funnel Puddle plunge pool.

The pool area's other main attraction is the AquaDuck two-person raft slide that circles the entire pool deck. You must be 42 inches to ride and 54 inches to ride alone or with a smaller person. The ride has some thrills but is fairly tame. Sea-day afternoon wait times can be long (upward of 40 minutes). Ride after dark, and you'll hardly wait at all.

The entrance and exit from the AquaDuck are adjacent to each other on Deck 12, right above Nemo's Reef. I say this so you won't loop the decks multiple times looking for it.

On the opposite side of the ship on Deck 13 is Goofy's Sports Deck for all your athletic or competitive pursuits. A central sports court with basketball hoops is surrounded by a wacky minigolf course, ping pong tables and foosball.

Your running and walking track, however, will be the Deck 4 promenade. You'll find padded wooden lounge chairs here, as well as shuffleboard courts.

If you need some serious pamper time, head to the Senses Spa and Salon on Deck 11 forward. A salon offers mani-pedis and hair styling, or you can book a massage or facial in one of the spa treatment rooms. Couples treatments include various massages as well as time in one of two couples' villas, and teen services are also available.

A fitness center is stocked with resistance machines, free weights, yoga mats and cardio machines with ocean views, plus group class space for spin and core classes. You can also book a pass to the Rainforest Room thermal suite for access to relaxing saunas and steam rooms.

If retail therapy is more your style, you'll find an array of shops on decks 3 and 4, selling all kinds of character-based souvenirs and toys, Disney Cruise Line logo items, fine jewelry and sundries. The Whozits and Whatzits shop on Deck 11 sells swim and beach items in case you forgot something at home. If you plan on splurging, consider packing a foldable duffle that you can fill with all your souvenirs for the trip home.

Related: Tricks to save money on a Disney cruise

Disney Dream shows

Disney Cruise Line is known for its original Broadway-style musical shows. Disney Dream's trio of original productions include "The Golden Mickeys," "Beauty and the Beast" and "Disney's Believe." These are performed in the Walt Disney Theatre on decks 3 and 4. Your showtime is opposite your mealtime; if you have an early dinner, you'll see the late show and vice versa.

"The Golden Mickeys" is a Disney's version of an awards show, honoring the bravest heroes and the most dastardly villains. The show combines video clips with live performances of favorite songs from Disney movies.

"Disney Believe" is another original musical featuring a single dad who goes on a journey to regain his belief in magic. Along the way, he encounters characters from a wide selection of Disney movies, who guide him on his journey with song and dance.

The ship's marquee show, which runs 1 and 1/2 hours rather than an hour, is a stage adaptation of "Beauty and the Beast," based on the live-action movie. The show employs creative use of puppetry and high-tech scenery, and the performers are stellar. (Some even have Broadway backgrounds.) On our sailing, this show also has a matinee performance to accommodate more guests.

The Walt Disney Theatre has both orchestra and balcony seating. Be careful of poles and railings that can block views from the balcony. Sit in the front section of the orchestra if you want confetti to rain down on you during certain performances.

Disney Dream does not have just one theater. The Buena Vista Theatre on decks 4 and 5 is the ship's movie cinema, showing first-run movies from Disney-owned production studios. That means if the film is currently showing in the movie theaters on land, you can watch it for free while you're at sea.

Disney Cruise Line is also famous for its Pirate Night, a shipwide pirate-themed party, complete with pirate-themed games, trivia and kids activities; a special pirate-themed, island-inspired dinner menu in every restaurant; and two pirate shows on the pool deck stage. The early show stars Pirate Mickey and friends and is geared for younger cruisers; the later, all-ages show features Jack Sparrow and culminates in a fireworks display.

Nearly everyone on board, from babies to grandparents, gets into the pirate spirit, dressing up in looks ranging from simple DIY outfits with a few accessories to head-to-toe professional costumes, complete with wigs. Even if your kids think they're too cool, pack some pirate attire because you will feel left out of the fun if you're not in costume.

Another hot tip: The pool deck cannot handle the number of people who turn out for these shows. Arrive a good half hour early to stake out a spot with decent sightlines, and be prepared to potentially hold your child up the entire time if you're standing in the back. Also, plan for an afternoon nap, if your young kid wants to see fireworks. The show starts after 10 p.m.

On our five-night cruise, Pirate Night took place on a night when a performance one of the three musicals was not occurring. On that night, the main stage screened the newest Disney movie, so more people could watch. On the remaining night, a guest magician performed.

If you like shows, keep an eye out for short performances listed in the daily schedule on the app. Early in the sailing, Mickey and friends did a Christmas tree lighting event, complete with a Santa visit. One evening, the Broadway actor who plays Gaston in the ship's theater did a half-hour one-man show, performing numbers from the Disney songbook.

Disney Dream itineraries and pricing

Disney Dream will offer a series of three-, four- and five-night Bahamas and Caribbean cruises out of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, through early May 2024. Ports of call in the Bahamas include Nassau and Castaway Cay, Disney's longtime private island. Caribbean cruises include Grand Cayman or Cozumel, Mexico.

The ship then crosses the Atlantic for a summer season in Europe. From May through mid-July, it will offer five- to 11-night Mediterranean cruises out of Barcelona and Civitavecchia (the port for Rome), Italy.

It will then reposition to Southampton, England (near London), where it will sail two Scandinavian fjords cruises; several three- to seven-night Europe Coastal and southern Europe cruises to ports in Spain, France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands; and one British Isles cruise before crossing the Atlantic back to Florida.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Disney Cruise Line ship

The ship returns to Fort Lauderdale from October 2024 through May 2025, again offering three- to five-night Caribbean and Bahamas sailings. This time, certain itineraries include Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney's new private destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas.

Fares vary by season, cruise destination and theme, as well as cabin category. Expect the least expensive windowless inside cabins to start at more than $200 per person, per night, based on double occupancy.

On Disney's website, three-night Bahamas cruises start from $1,733 for a couple. Five-night Western Caribbean cruises start at $2,437 per couple, and a seven-night Western Europe cruise starts at $4,427 per couple. Fares increase from there for cabins with balconies or suites, as well as for adding additional guests sharing the cabin.

A family of four would pay upward of $5,859 for a Concierge-level cabin on a three-night Bahamas cruise, for example.

Related: I saved every receipt — here's how much it actually costs to go on a Disney cruise

What to know before you go

Required documents.

U.S. citizens sailing Disney Dream from Port Canaveral will need either a passport or a government-issued photo ID and an original birth certificate. Children can sail with either a passport or a birth certificate. However, for Disney Dream's summer European sailings, including the transatlantic crossings, everyone traveling (including babies) will need a passport.

If you're sailing with a child who is not your own, you will need to fill out a form certifying that you have permission from their parents to travel with them. Passports, when required, must be valid for at least six months. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Related: Tips for getting a child's passport

Disney Cruise Line charges a crew gratuity of $14.50 per person (including babies and children) per day for most cruisers and $15.50 per person for Concierge-level cabins and suites.

You can prepay this amount, or it will be added to your onboard bill. If you have not prepaid, you can adjust the amount up or down at guest services or give additional tips in cash. The hardworking crew relies on these gratuities; even if you have service snafus, we strongly encourage you to pay the full amount and express your dissatisfaction in another fashion.

To give an idea of the cost, a four-person family on a five-night cruise in a standard cabin would pay $290 in recommended tips. The amount is split among your team of dining room servers who kept your kids entertained at dinner and your cabin host who cleaned up your mess each day.

An 18% gratuity is added to onboard spa, bar, beverage, wine and deck service tabs. You can always add an additional gratuity for any of your services or servers.

While room service is free, it's customary to add a few dollars of tip when you sign the "bill."

A gratuity is added to bills at Palo and Remy because those servers are not included in the automatic gratuity. Leave an additional tip if you enjoyed the service. If you stay in a Concierge-level room or suite, it is customary to tip the Concierge Lounge hosts $8 per person, per day, at the end of your cruise.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships

Disney Dream offers various Wi-Fi packages for a fee.

On my sailing, you could choose from three Wi-Fi packages and pay per 24 hours or per voyage. The Stay Connected package gives access to just Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. It costs $18 for 24 hours for one device or $16/day for the full voyage (so $80 for a five-night sailing like mine).

The Classic Surf package gives access to the entire web, email and audio calling. The 24-hour price for one device is $28; the full-cruise cost is $24/day ($120 for a five-night sailing).

The Premium Surf package gives the same access as the Classic but with the addition of streaming services like YouTube, Snapchat and video calling. It costs $42 for 24 hours on one device or $34/day for the voyage ($170 for a five-night cruise).

For any of the plans, you can purchase full-cruise packages for up to four devices, with a 20% discount for each additional device. There is no discount for a multiple-device package for 24 hours. You can purchase a full-cruise package in the middle of your vacation, and the price will be prorated for the number of days left.

If you're deciding how many devices to add to your package, know that you can switch your plan from device to device throughout the cruise. For example, if you purchase a one-device plan, you can switch the service from your phone to your tablet then back to your phone. However, if you need a connection on your tablet and phone at the same time, you will need a two-device plan.

On my Caribbean cruise, I had no problems using the Navigator app or texting, and my travel companions made several Wi-Fi calls using our Premium Surf package. However, loading webpages and uploading photos on my laptop was often slow.

Carry-on drinks policy

Each passenger 21 years and older can bring a maximum of two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne (no larger than 750 milliliters) or six beers (no larger than 12 ounces) on board both at the beginning of the cruise and at each port of call. Not every cruise line allows you to bring drinks back from port without confiscating them, so take advantage of this generous alcohol policy .

On embarkation day, beverages must be packed in your carry-on (not checked) bags. You can keep drinks chilled in the small fridge in your cabin or ask your stateroom host for ice.

If you wish to consume wine or Champagne that you've brought on board in one of the dining rooms, you must pay a $26 corkage fee per bottle.

Smoking policy

Smoking is permitted in the following onboard locations only:

• The portside outdoor area of the Meridian Lounge on Deck 12
• The portside deck area on Deck 13 aft by the Currents Bar
• The aft port side of the Deck 4 outdoor promenade, but only from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Passengers caught smoking in their cabins or on their cabin balconies will be charged a $250 cleaning fee.

Disney Dream offers 24-hour, self-service guest laundry facilities on Decks 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. They are not marked on the deck plans on the app, but they are shown on each floor's deck plan by the stairwell and signs in the cabin hallways point the way. On most decks, they are located all the way forward or aft.

Use your Key to the World cruise card to pay to operate the washers and dryers, as well as buy any detergent or dryer sheets you need. Laundry rooms are also stocked with irons and ironing boards for complimentary use; they are the only place on board where you're allowed to use an iron.

If you really don't want to do chores on your vacation, you can send out your dirty laundry for washing, pressing or dry cleaning for an additional fee. Use the laundry bag and form in your cabin and your cabin attendant will pick up and return your clothes.

Electrical outlets

All cabins are equipped with 110-volt outlets, which are standard in the U.S. and Canada, and 220-volt (European) outlets by the desk and on one side of the bed. A shaver-only outlet is located on the ceiling of the bathroom.

The currency on Disney Cruise Line ships is the U.S. dollar.

When you are on the ship, you will not need cash or a credit card — all incidentals, purchases and services will be charged to your cabin folio. Your Key to the World card serves as your onboard payment method. The only exception is if you want to tip a crew member in cash.

You will want to have some cash or a credit card for purchases in port. The exception is Castaway Cay, where cruisers can pay for all purchases at the shops and bars with their cruise cards; cash and credit cards are not accepted on Disney's private island.

Drinking age

The drinking age on board Disney Dream is 21. However, if you're sailing on one of Dream's round-trip cruises within Europe, where the drinking age is lower, parents and guardians can sign a form to allow 18- to 20-year-olds to drink on board when in the presence of an adult in their traveling party.

Daytime dress is casual; shorts, T-shirts and casual sundresses are the norm on Bahamas and Caribbean sailings. Many of your shipmates will be dressed in Mickey ears, Disney-themed attire, princess dresses or group T-shirts at all times.

During the evenings, dining attire in the three main dining restaurants is "cruise casual," meaning no swimwear or tank tops, but you don't have to dress up in anything fancy. That said, many guests do dress up in the evening, but it's not required unless you are dining in Palo or Remy. (Palo also asks that diners dress up a bit for brunch, so come prepared.)

Our five-night cruise had one optional dress-up night, and we were also told that it's fun to change into something a bit fancier (or perhaps a princess costume) when dining at the Royal Palace restaurant.

The dress code on Pirate Night is, of course, pirate casual. Bring your bandanas and eye patches, but leave your swords and pistols at home.

On Halloween and Very Merrytime Christmas cruises, costumes and holiday attire are encouraged — and make for great photos.

Related: The ultimate Disney cruise packing list

Bottom line

Disney Dream offers an amazing experience for families with children and Disney lovers of all ages. The ship stands out for its family-friendly cabins, attentive crew and stellar musical shows. You will be able to meet many of your favorite Disney characters and immerse yourself in the world of Disney.

However, you need to be prepared for crowds and queues, loud dinners, other people's children and myriad extra-fee events, treats and souvenirs that will tempt everyone in your travel party. Come with the right mindset, and you'll have a magical trip your family will remember fondly.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Disney Cruise Line: Experiencing the Pools as a Family with Young Kids

There is nothing quite like being surrounded by the great open ocean while enjoying some freshwater pools on the ship! Pools and other water fun are probably the most popular areas of the entire cruise ship – for all the right reasons. Before you hit the water, check out a few things you may want to know before experiencing the pools as a family with young kids.

1 – Ship Pools Vary

While the five Disney Cruise Line ships have many shared qualities, a few key differences exist, including the pools available on each ship. When your kids see the AquaDuck in a commercial, you don’t want them assuming that will be on their ship if you haven’t booked the Dream or Fantasy. Here is a rundown of the pools on each ship:

• AquaDuck – height 42 inches or taller
• Donald’s Pool – adults and children ages 3 and older
• Mickey’s Pool – ages 3 and older
• Mickey’s Slide – ages 4 to 14; height at least 38 and no more than 64 inches tall
• Nemo’s Reef – ages 3 and younger (swim diapers required)
• Whirlpool Spa tubs – adult supervision required for Guests under age 16
• AquaLab – ages 3 and older
• AquaDunk – height 48 inches or taller
• Goofy’s Pool – adults and children ages 3 and older
• Nephews’ Splash Zone – ages 3 and younger (swim diapers required)
• Twist ‘n’ Spout Slide – height at least 38 and no more than 64 inches tall
• Mickey’s Splash Zone & Dory’s Reef – ages 3 and younger (swim diapers required)
• Whirlpool Spa tubs – adult supervision required for guests under age 16
• Mickey’s Pool
• Minnie’s Pool
• Daisy’s Pool
• Pluto’s Pool
• Donald’s Pool
• Goofy’s Pool
• Chip ‘n Dale’s Pool on Deck 14 (children under 12 must have adult supervision)
• Toy Story Splash Zone on Deck 12 – toddlers and children up to six years old
• Slide-a-saurus Rex on Deck 12 – double-looping waterslide for guests 38″ or taller
• Trixie’s Falls – a six-inch-deep wading pool with a small fountain and waterfall
• Quiet Cove Pool – guests 18 years of age and older

2 – Aqua DUCK vs. Aqua DUNK

With these two names being so similar, understanding the difference can be confusing! The Aqua DUCK  is located on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. Children and adults can ride as long as they are 42 inches or taller. This is a water coaster with a two-person tube that is propelled by water through a tubing system around the ship. The Aqua DUNK is located on the Disney Magic and was built with teens and adults in mind. For this one, you have to be 48 inches or taller to ride. Step into a capsule-like tube, count down, and you’ll be dropped down a waterslide. AquaDunk is the more thrilling and intimidating of the two, while the AquaDuck is the much more family-friendly experience.

3 – AquaMouse – the First Disney Attraction at Sea on the Disney Wish (and Coming to the Disney Treasure)

On the Disney Wish, guests can enjoy the first Disney attractions at sea on the AquaMouse ! Complete with show scenes, lighting and special effects, and “splashtacular surprises”, this first-of-its-kind water ride sends guests on a fun family adventure through 760 feet of winding tubes suspended high above the upper decks.  Guests need to be 42 inches or taller to ride. Persons under seven years of age must be accompanied by someone 14 years of age or older. To ride alone, you must be at least 48″ tall. This attraction is very popular and a whole lot of fun!

4 – Packing for the Pool

Towels are provided on deck, so you don’t have to worry about hauling them around or trying to fit them in your luggage. You can also leave the pool vests at home as these are provided, as well. Personal floaties are allowed (such as water wings), but large floats like tubes or pool noodles are not. Snorkel gear is not permitted in the pools, so save that for your day at Cape Canaveral! Your child is welcome to use goggles in all pools except when riding the AquaDunk on the Disney Magic. Lastly, if your child is still in a swim diaper, be aware that he or she will not be able to get into the pools, whirlpools, or use slides. Children who are not potty trained can wear swim diapers in the children’s splash areas.

5 – Sunscreen & Shade Your Kiddos

Keep sunscreen on the kiddos by reapplying regularly. The pools are open to the sun, so you’ll need to be aware of how your kids are doing. Hats, sunglasses, and swim shirts are helpful. There are some lounge chairs directly in the sun, but do your best to grab one in the shade so you and your kids can have some time out of the sun when needed.

6 – Attentive Lifeguards  – But…

Lifeguards are on duty whenever the pools or slides are open to ensure rules are being followed. Keep in mind that while there are lifeguards, adult supervision is still required for children under the age of 16. As parents, we felt reassured knowing lifeguards are present and attentive, but we, too, were right there where we could see our child, and they could see us. We think because it’s a cruise setting and people feel like their child can’t really go far, that they’ll just leave the babysitting to the lifeguards. We saw this several, several times. Lifeguards will do their best to help your child in an emergency, but they are not responsible for your child.

7 – Super Fun Cast Members

If the massive pool front screen with Disney films being played isn’t enough, Cast Members are constantly offering games and activities for the kids at the pool. These games typically include some form of water play or allow kids to sit poolside to play. We’ve learned if you have a shy child, it is sometimes difficult to push them into the crowd to get them to join in. Don’t hesitate to let your child watch the games if they simply don’t want to participate. Keep an eye on your Navigator App as this will have a poolside game/activity schedule.

8 – Expect a Crowd

It gets crowded… very crowded! To be honest with you, we were in shock at just how packed the pools got during peak hours. It seemed like every child on the boat was in the pool. Disney does, however, have regulations and only allows a certain number of kids in the pool at once. Don’t expect your child to be able to get in and swim across the pool during peak times. It’s more like getting in and wading in one spot. The small whirlpools located to the side of the pool areas on each ship are open for kids, but again – it’s like taking a bath with 30 other people.

9 – Best Times to Swim

Since we’re talking about the crowds, let’s talk about the best time to take a swim! The pools/slides are typically open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm. They do have early closings if there is a special nighttime event on the pool deck. We’ve also seen random closures that seemed to relate to too many kids in the pool, an object in the pool, or other reasons we are unaware of. They did reopen pools rather quickly after these unexpected closures. The best times to swim are first thing in the morning or late in the evening. The middle of the day is peak time, so avoid it if you’re looking to avoid crowds. Port days are another great time to swim if you don’t have many port adventures and find yourself back on the boat early.

10 – Eat Up with Poolside Dining

Something about swimming and the sun makes us hungry! Our kids always want a snack or drink when we go to the pool. The best thing about the cruise is all your poolside snacking and dining is right there. Just steps away from the pool, and you can enjoy pizza, sandwiches, fries, fruit, chips, ice cream, water, soda – all sorts of stuff! Plan to take swim breaks and eat up at one of the convenient poolside dining options. Oh, and parents – there is an adult beverage called the “Drink of the Day” available at the poolside bars. Get a souvenir glass on your first day and have a “drink of the day” refilled in the glass for a reduced price. Kids are happy, as are you!

Have a blast splashing around on the Disney Cruise Line!

For a no obligation, FREE Quote on a Disney vacation package, please contact our travel partner Magical Vacation Planner at 407-442-0227 (407-442-0215 for Spanish). You can also request a FREE quote online by Clicking HERE.

Matt & Kim

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Disney Magic: Everything You Need to Know

Disclaimer: this Disney Magic Cruise Ship page includes affiliate links. Read full Disclosure Policy .

Disney Magic Cruise Ship - The Ultimate Guide

Img: Disney Cruise Line

Considering a Disney Cruise on the Magic?

This is the most comprehensive guide to Disney Magic Cruise Ship information on the Internet. Real information to make your voyage on Disney Magic as magical as it can be!

Table of Contents

• Disney Magic Staterooms

Disney Magic History

Disney magic facts & trivia, disney magic deck plan.

• Disney Magic Dining
• Disney Magic Entertainment
• Disney Magic Pools
• Disney Magic Sports
• Disney Magic Shopping
• Disney Magic Concierge
• Other Onboard Services
• Disney Magic Ports of Call

About the Disney Magic

On July 30, 1998, the Disney Magic made her maiden voyage as the first Disney Cruise Line ship.

Since then the Magic has been extensively renovated - or reimagined - in October of 2013.

Even though this is the oldest ship in their fleet, you would never know. Disney is constantly cleaning, maintaining and repainting to keeps things looking brand new and in top condition.

Sailing the Disney Magic is truly Magic at Sea!

Image: Flickr

How Big is the Disney Magic?

Disney Magic weighs over 84,000 tons and it is 984 feet in length. The ship is the same size as the Disney Wonder , which was introduced to the Disney Cruise Line fleet at the same time as the Magic.

CAPACITY Passengers: 2,700 Staterooms: 877 Crew (aka "Cast Members"): 950

The Crew-to-Passenger ratio equals out to one Cast Member for every 2.8 guests!

Image: Disney Parks

• The Disney Magic is 984 feet long - that is longer than Main Street U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom
• The interior is decorated in art nouveau style
• Each of the 4 DCL ships has a unique statue in their atrium lobby. Disney Magic's lobby statue is Mickey Mouse
• Patricia Disney (Roy Disney's former wife) is the Godmother of the Disney Magic
• On an average 7-night cruise aboard the Magic, over 71,500 eggs and are consumed
• On embarkation day, the crew will load approximately 10,000 suitcases onboard
• The stern (the back end of the ship) features Goofy painting
• The bow (the front end of the ship) features Sorcerer Mickey Mouse
• This ship was built in two halves! Half of the ship was made in Ancona, Italy then towed 100 miles to join the other half near Venice to be welded together
• The anchor weighs about the same as three adult elephants - 28,200 pounds

As you read this page, refer back to this map of Disney Magic deck plan often to familiarize yourself with the different locations of Disney Magic's attractions. Click it to enlarge.

Source: Disney Cruise Line

Want the Disney Magic Map?

Is that included, disney magic dining, main dining, about disney magic restaurants.

Disney Magic features "Rotational Dining."

On Disney Cruise Line, you'll rotate between three main restaurants, offering you a  different dining experience every night for dinner. Your service crew will move with you.

Here are the three Disney Magic restaurants that are part of the rotational dining.

Image: Disney Cruise Line

Exclusive to the Disney Magic, Lumiere’s is a Beauty and the Beast themed dining room. Here you’ll enjoy American cuisine for breakfast and lunch and French fare for dinner. Come and, as they sing, "Be Our Guest"!  

Rapunzel's Royal Table

Another Disney Magic exclusive inspired by the Disney classic, Tangled . This dining experience is part of the rotational dining and features characters, live entertainment, singing and dancing. RRT is like no other! Also open during breakfast and lunch for non-rotational dining.

Animator's Palate

There is a reason this is such a fan-favorite. Experience Disney animations in real life while you eat. We won't reveal too much here, but check out my Animator's Palate tips here - read tips #43-46.

Casual Dining

You'll probably become very familiar with Cabanas on your cruise, because it is the main buffet restaurant. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (for those who prefer to skip their rotational dining or are late to their Main Dining seating). So much variety here, they serve snacks, appetizers, desserts and entrees of every kind. Various selections will change from meal to meal, while others are constant fixtures on the menu. If you find a favorite dish, (Mickey Mouse pancakes anyone?) this can be comforting for finicky eaters, especially your little ones.

EYE SCREAM TREATS

Every kid's dream come true: all the ice cream you can eat. And it's FREE! Hey, it's vacation, so I say go ahead and indulge your craving while on your Disney Cruise.

Along with soft-serve ice cream, you'll find plenty of toppings. My kids may have gone just  a little overboard with the all-you-can-eat (okay me too) but hey...it's vacation!

FROZONE TREATS

PETE'S BOILER BITES

PINOCCHIO'S PIZZERIA

BEVERAGE STATION

I tend to spend a lot of time visiting the Beverage Station on Deck 9.

Why? Because the drinks here are FREE. Drink options include water, soda, juices, coffee, tea, milk, fruit punch, lemonade, and hot cocoa.

The bars and lounges on board will charge you extra for sodas, but it is free here. Check out tip #48 on my Disney Cruise Tips to enjoy more free soda.

ROOM SERVICE

Brought to your stateroom

Disney Magic's room service menu is surprisingly large. The options are available at any time of the night or day.

To get more advice about Disney Magic room service, read tips 54-59 of my 101 Disney Cruise Tips .

Exclusive Dining

Looking for an adult only meal? Or something that will make your little one beam for days on end? The Disney Magic offers exclusive dining opportunities to fulfill those wishes.

Image: Brownie Bites

This is the Disney Magic's finest dining experience and it is available only for adults.

In our opinion, the Northern Italian menu is worth the premium fee you pay for it. When you top off the delicious kids-free meal with gorgeous seascapes, you have a brunch or dinner to remember.

Reservations are required and there's a dress code as well, please  refer to our Disney Cruise packing list for suggestions on what to wear.

Royal Court Royal Tea

Deck 3 at Lumiere's

Little princes or princesses (3 to 12) can join their favorite Disney characters for a tea party. While this tea party has an additional fee, it includes a chance to meet one-on-one with the princesses and take home a few royal gifts.

DISNEY MAGIC ENTERTAINMENT

Each night on the Disney Magic, a signature entertainment event will be hosted in the Walt Disney Theatre.

You'll be treated to performances that are legitimately Broadway-caliber. Other acts that are sometimes shown on stage include musicians, jugglers, ventriloquists, hypnotists, or comedians. Sometimes they show a feature movie – typically something Disney-owned that is new to theaters or is coming soon.

The Walt Disney Theatre is located on Deck 4 Forward.

Tangled: The Musical

Tangled  is the story of  Rapunzel's fairytale. The characters from the beloved animated film are portrayed by real-life actors on stage. If you know the movie, you'll get to sing along with the familiar songs.  This show is only shown on Disney Magic.

Twice Charmed: an Original Twist on the Cinderella Story

This musical serves as a sequel of sorts to the classic film Cinderella .  The premise is simple: what would have happened if Cinderella had never put on that glass slipper?

The stepsisters are back with the wicked stepmother, but there's a new bad guy in the mix: an evil Fairy Godfather.

Disney Dreams

Deck parties.

Sail-Away Celebration

Frozen Deck Party

On select 7-day cruises, you'll step into the atrium and find it has been converted into a winter wonderland, where you will meet all sorts of characters from Arendelle. This is the start of a day of Frozen-themed activities (scavenger hunt, dinner, evening show, etc).

Pirate Night

Wear your best pirate outfit to celebrate a full day of activities , character meet and greets, and an impressive deck party. Of course, it culiminates with a bang, as Disney Magic sets off fireworks into the night sky.

Note: some sailings (like some Alaska) don't feature fireworks.

Marvel Day at Sea

On select 5-night cruises, Disney Magic hosts Marvel's heroes, like the Avengers and Spiderman. If your child loves Iron Man or Captain America, he or she will love meeting them in person.

Other events include a movie marathon, a costume night, and special stunt show that features fireworks and incredible stunts on the ship deck.

Seasonal Celebrations

Character greetings.

Meet and Greets

One of our favorite parts of any Disney Cruise is getting to meet some of our favorite characters.

We take an autograph book ( see our packing list ) and collect as many signatures as we can.

The times and characters available to meet vary, so check the DCL app each day.

Free Ticketed Events

These events require tickets (they're free at online checkin):

• Frozen Meet and Greet
• Princess Gathering
• Heroic Encounters
• Star Wars Character Experience

Tickets are limited so reserve them during online checkin . If they are sold out, visit Guest Services as soon as you get on the ship; there are often tickets available there.

Character Breakfast

On select 7+ night cruises, you can eat breakfast with Disney and Disney Junior Characters. They go from table to table, posing for photos, giving high fives, and saying hi.

Tickets are FREE, but they are limited. Again, you'll want to jump on these during online check-in .

IT'S A SMALL WORLD NURSERY

OCEANEER CLUB & LAB

Decks 10 & 11

BIBBIDI BOBBIDI BOUTIQUE

Adults only (18 and up).

KEYS PIANO BAR

O'GILLS PUB

SIGNALS BAR

SENSES SPA & SALON

More family fun.

Promenade Lounge

The whole family is welcome to party the night away at the D Lounge. We have had some legendary Karaoke moments here as a family. Music, games and live entertainment are just a few of the attractions you’ll find here.

Buena Vista Theatre

Funnel Vision

Funnel Vision is a giant screen that shows Disney movies while you chill on Deck 9 or swim in Goofy’s Pool.

Called “Funnel Vision” because it’s mounted onto the forward funnel of the ship.

It's a huge LED screen, totally state of the art.

DISNEY MAGIC POOLS

Goofy's Pool & Mickey's Pool

A thrilling waterslide where the floor drops out and you plunge 3 stories for an exhilarating ride over the edge of the ship!

*Guests must be at least 48" tall to ride the AquaDunk

Twist n' Spout

Nephews Splash Zone

Quiet Cove Pool

My favorite pool because hey, no kids allowed! This adult-only area is reserved to be quiet sanctuary for grownups to escape the kids...err, relax and unwind. It's much quieter and they serve cocktails. Must be age 18+.

DISNEY MAGIC SPORTS & RECREATION

Running Track

Image: TouringPlans.com

Shuffleboard

Wide World of Sports

Fitness Center

Disney magic shopping, sea treasures, mickey's mainsail, vista gallery, shutters: the onboard photography shop.

Img: Flickr

DISNEY MAGIC CONCIERGE

Concierge lounge.

Concierge guests will enjoy this luxurious, chic escape from the rest of the ship.

The Concierge Level Lounge allows guests to access the internet, drink a cocktail, watch news or sports on a huge TV, and partake of complimentary beverages and food served throughout the day.

Concierge Sundeck

Connected to the Concierge Lounge, you'll find a sundeck available only to Concierge level guests.

Perched above the Quiet Cove Pool, it's a quiet area for sunning and relaxing.

It offers expansive views of the ocean in virtually all directions, and if you want a soda or snack, just pop back into the Concierge Lounge.

Towels and sunscreen are provided.

OTHER ONBOARD SERVICES

Health center.

The Health Center is available when you're feeling sick, need first aid or have a medical emergency.

The clinic keeps regular daily hours to offer care for non-emergencies. If you have an emergency, the ship has a doctor and nurse on call 24/7.

Tender Lobbies

Guest services.

Got a question or request? This is your place. I have found the crew that manages Guest Services to be very responsive and caring. 

They can help you make spa appointments or dining reservations, plan your vacation by explaining activities, ship amenities, and the ship schedule.

Questions with your bill are handled here. You may also request a free crib or diaper genie here. Book these when you first arrive to make sure you get one.

Port Adventures Desk

Onboard sales desk.

Plan and book future Disney Cruises. Why would you book a Disney cruise while on a Disney cruise, you ask? You’d be surprised by how many people do!

It’s all about the perks. It’s pretty much the only way to get a Disney cruise for a discounted price.

Here’s the low down:

• 10% discount on prevailing rates on your next cruise (concierge-level excluded)
• Stateroom credit of $100 (3-6 nights) or $200 (7-night cruises or longer)
• Reduced Deposit on 7-night sailings or longer

You don’t have to decide on a date while on the ship. Just put a $250 deposit down as a placeholder for a future cruise and sail within the next 24 months.

Laundry Facilities

Decks 2,6,7

DISNEY MAGIC PORTS OF CALL

Disney Magic Ports of Call 2018

Disney Magic is scheduled to visit the following destinations in 2018:

• Saint John (New Brunswick), Canada
• Halifax (Nova Scotia), Canada
• Saguenay ( Québec), Canada
• Baie-Comeau ( Québec), Canada
• Québec City ( Québec), Canada
• Sydney (Nova Scotia), Canada
• Castaway Cay
• Nassau, Bahamas
• Key West, Florida
• San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Tortola, British Virgin Islands
• Basseterre, St. Kitts
• King's Wharf, Bermuda
• Cozumel, Mexico
• George Town, Grand Cayman
• Port Canaveral, Florida
• Miami, Florida
• New York City, New York
• Portland (Stonehenge), England
• Cobh (Cork), Ireland
• Dublin, Ireland
• Greenock (Glasgow & Edinburgh), Scotland
• Liverpool, England
• Kristiansand, Norway
• Stavanger, Norway
• Alesund, Norway
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Invergordon, Scotland
• Dover, England
• Tallinn, Estonia
• St. Petersburg, Russia
• Helsinki, Finland
• Stockholm, Sweden
• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Warnemünde (Berlin), Germany

Disney Magic Ports of Call 2019

Disney Magic is scheduled to visit the following destinations in 2019:

• St. John's, Antigua
• Bar Harbor, Maine
• Akureyri, Iceland
• Oslo, Norway
• Olden, Norway
• Geiranger, Norway
• Bergen, Norway
• Gothenburg, Sweden
• Copenhagen, Denmark
• Marseille, France
• Cannes, France
• Villefrance (Monte Carlo / Nice), France
• Ajaccio (Corsica), France
• Toulon (Provence), France
• Genoa (Milan), Italy
• Livorno (Florence, Pisa), Italy
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
• Naples (Pompeii), Italy
• Salerno, Italy
• Barcelona, Spain
• Fredericia, Denmark
• Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Cádiz, Spain
• Málaga, Spain
• Cartagena, Spain
• Belfast, Northern Ireland
• Greenock (Glasgow, Edinburgh), Scotland
• Kirkwall (Orkney Islands), Scotland

Disney Magic Ports of Call 2020

Disney Magic is scheduled to visit the following destinations in 2020 :

• Castaway Cay (Disney's Private Island)
• Kirkwall (Orkney Island), Scotland

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What’s so Different About the Pools on the Disney Wish

What’s a Disney Cruise vacation without lots of time in the pool? I’ve been on every Disney cruise ship, except for the Fantasy, and when Disney invited our publications to experience the new Disney Wish I couldn’t wait to explore. Many things are different on this ship including the Disney Wish pools for families, and adults too.

Whether you’ve been on a Disney Cruise before, or not, it’s helpful to know what to expect before you step aboard. We’ll go over what’s so different about the pools on the Disney Wish , including the six pools for families, and a quiet pool, the waterslides, the splash area and pool for toddlers, and the adults-only pools.

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Please note, our team was invited by Disney to the Disney Wish Christening sailing. Our cruise experience, aside from specialty drinks and certain experiences, was complimentary.

Disney Wish Pools for Families

With a new ship comes new opportunities to make improvements. On the new Disney Wish there are SIX pools for families . These pools vary in size and depth. Plus there is a wading pool at the front of the ship.

Starting on deck 11 the Mickey’s Pool and Minnie’s Pool are the largest pools . They are surrounded by lounge chairs and offer the closest view to the funnel vision screens which show Disney films and other fun features throughout the day, and into the night.

Mickey’s Pool, and to a lesser extent, Minnie’s Pool, can often be covered up due to entertainment. Mickey’s Pool is covered up to become a stage during certain shows, including the Sail Away Deck Party.

Smaller Pools – Daisy, Pluto, Donald, and Goofy Pools

On an upper level, just a few steps above Minnie’s Pool are two more tiers of smaller pools. Daisy’s Pool and Pluto’s Pool mirror each other and are small shallow pools, only 2′ deep with a gentle waterfall at the back . These two pools are perfect for sitting and enjoying the relaxing waterfall, and a nice choice for little kids still working on their comfort around the water.

Note – complimentary life jackets are available at racks near the pools. I encourage all families to use these, even if your kiddo(s) has some strong swimming skills. It helps put your mind at ease and helps them not tire out as quickly.

At the highest tier are Donald’s Pool and Goofy’s Pool . These pools are almost like cylinders. They are perfectly round and 4′ deep – the deepest of the family pools .

This new tiered system makes the pool area on the Disney Wish much less chaotic than the other Disney Cruise Ships. The action is spread out and each pool feels like its own special area .

The viewing for deck parties and shows is also improved by having these smaller tiered decks.

Cip N’ Dale’s Quiet Pool on Deck 14

If you’re willing to make a little bit of a trek, you’ll be rewarded with a pool that is often overlooked. It is far away from the main family pools and is relatively quiet. This wading pool, only 2′ in depth, but it is wide, round, and offers beautiful views from the front of the ship.

This area was used for filming during the media sailing so we were unable to get to it and photograph it. But if you are looking for a pool away from the action and a more relaxed atmosphere this Chip N’ Dale’s pool on deck 14 is a great option.

Lounge Chairs on the Disney Wish

The big disadvantage of this new layout is keeping your spot if your kiddo wants to move from pool to another. There is nothing wrong with keeping your lounge chairs and your items there as you move around, but it can be annoying.

And I can only imagine what happens if one sibling wants to be in one pool and the other wants to be in a different one.

Still, after multiple sailings on multiple Disney ships, I prefer this new tiered setup.

Toy Story Splash Zone

Back when the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy came aboard the Disney Cruise Line fleet a new design for the littlest of swimmers emerged. This new design for the splash zone continues with the Disney Wish .

The Toy Story Splash Zone is adorable. It features all your favorite Toy Story characters , but in a cute style that resembles Fisher Price’s Little People toys. There are multiple water nozzles and sprayers, plus two short slides . It is completely shaded and there is only one entrance – making it easy for parents to keep an eye on their little cruisers.

I love that this Splash Zone is away from the Funnel Vision screens on the Disney Wish. Sometimes the movies are too loud or too intense for little littles. Plus, there is a wading pool for just littles right next to the Splash Zone.

Aqua Mouse and Waterslide

It’s become a tradition for Disney cruise ships to have at least one waterslide. On the Disney Wish there is a new waterslide, in fact, it is the first Disney attraction at sea . The Aqua Mouse is more like a ride than a water slide. It features Mickey and Minnie in the style of the new cartoon series. According to Walt Disney Imagineer, Danny Hadke , there are about 60 nozzles or water jets ready to get you soaked.

The minimum height requirement for Aqua Mouse is 42″ so it is good for school age kids and older. Our four year old son is not tall enough so we did not get a chance to personally experience Aqua Mouse, but everyone we talked to loved it and had a great time.

For a more traditional waterslide experience, there is Slide-A-Saurus Rex. This bright yellow slide matches the theme of the Toy Story Splash Zone, but it is a slide for anyone 38″ inches or taller.

Nearby Dining and Drinks

You’ll never go hungry or thirsty on a Disney cruise, or any cruise for that matter. On the same deck as the pools you can get unlimited soft drinks at the multiple drink stations .

Parenting Pro Tip – Look for the small silver buttons on the lower part of the drink stations. These buttons are on kid-level so kids can push the buttons themselves and fill up their own cup!

There is also unlimited soft serve ice cream on this deck!

For quick eats visit Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods . Our son LOVED Donald’s Taco Cantina where we made a bowl of white rice, shredded pork, and veggies. And my husband loved Mickey’s Smokehouse BBQ. This new quick-service food on the Disney Wish is somehow a big improvement on the quick-service food on the other Disney ships.

If you want something even more satisfying then Marceline Market is the buffet-style restaurant on the Disney Wish. Instead of being a traditional buffet, the servers will hand you whatever selection you desire. There are multiple stations so be sure to walk around and get your fill. This is also on the main pool deck.

RELATED: Inside Arendelle Frozen Dining Adventure

Adults Only Pools on Disney Wish

Parents need their own time. And what I love most about Disney Cruise Line is it perfectly balances the needs of kids as well as the desires of parents. Every Disney Cruise I’ve experienced has allowed me to have it all.

I get quality family time, a little solo time, and enjoy some romantic moments just my husband and me.

One of the best places for quality adult time is deck 12 aft (the back of the ship). Here adults can enjoy a massive wrap-around sun deck with plenty of plush seating.

The Disney Wish offers the first ever infinity pool on a Disney cruise ship . Admittedly the adults-only pool area is small. In fact, it feels smaller than all the other Disney ships. There is an infinity pool that overlooks the ocean and the back of the ship, and two shallow wading pools with gentle waterfalls flank it on either side.

An outdoor bar and Cove Cafe right around the corner, provide plenty of libations. Even if you only give yourself an hour or so in the adults-only pool deck while your kids enjoy the Oceaneers Club, Edge, or Vibe, it will be worth it.

RELATED: 5 BIG Changes on the Disney Wish Cruise Ship for Adults

A Disney Cruise is all about fun for every member of the family. So don’t forget to make time for yourself too.

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Disney Cruise Line Adult Only Experiences- Private Pool, Wine Tastings, Spa

Disney Cruise Line offers so many adult exclusive experiences and areas for adults to enjoy! Since the Disney Cruise Line includes areas for kids and teens to enjoy, this gives parents the chance to enjoy time on their own. Or for adults enjoying a Disney Cruise without kids, this is a great way to enjoy the ship in adult atmospheres.

All the Disney Cruise ships include adult only areas and experiences with some variation on offerings. But most ships all include a spa, a private adult area pool and bar, coffee bar, wine tastings or cocktail classes, and adult only dining experiences. Many of these come at an additional cost but can be worth it if you are looking to relax on your cruise and indulge.

During my recent experience on a Disney Cruise I took advantage of all the adult offerings while my son enjoyed the youth areas on the ship and this guide provides an overview of all the offerings plus my review on the spa offerings, wine tasting, adult only pool areas, and more. 

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What Is Adult Exclusive On A Disney Cruise?

Adult exclusive on a Disney Cruise means that these experiences and areas of the ship are reserved for guests ages 18 and older. And yes, Disney Cruise cast members might ask younger looking guests to see their Key to the World card to verify they meet the age requirement.

These experiences exist so adults can have their own areas to relax because let's face it, the kids pool has a much different atmosphere than a pool reserved for just adults! And that's just one example. The dining experiences, lounges, and entertainment will have a much different atmosphere since it's reserved for adults.

Disney Cruise Exclusive Adult Pool Areas 

Each Disney Cruise ship will have an adult only pool area that will include a pool, hot tub, and nearby bar.

This area can get crowded especially in the later afternoon. If you want to enjoy the area before it gets too crowded then showing up before lunch time is the best bet. It will be most crowded after that point.

I loved this area of the ship on the Disney Dream , the hot tub was definitely the biggest perk as the hot tub in the kid's pool area is always filled with smaller kids splashing and jumping. This is the place to go if you want to enjoy a more relaxing hot tub experience!

The layout of the adult only pool sections on each Disney Cruise ship will vary but every ship does have a dedicated pool space just for adults.

Disney Cruise Senses Spa & Salon

Each Disney Cruise Line ship features the Senses Spa & Salon. Senses offers an immense wide range of services from massages, basic salon services like haircuts and pedicures, and even teeth whitening.

There's also a wide selection of cosmetic body and facial treatments offered like dermal filler, skin tightening, cool body sculpting, and Dysport (similar to Botox).

All of these services come at an additional cost and are not included in the cost of your cruise. You can also expect to pay more for these services than you would at a local salon or med spa so that's also something to keep in mind. The cosmetic treatments require a free 30 minute consultation and they will give you a price depending on that. It does appear you have some room to get the price down in those meetings so keep that in mind if you're interested.

There are also many free classes and consultations available at the spa throughout the cruise. Some of these will provide you the chance to sample the products sold in the spa (the brand of choice for most cruise lines, including Disney, is Elemis) which can be a fun way to fill an afternoon at sea. Keep in mind that these mini free classes often come with a sales pitch at the end either to purchase the products or book an spa treatment.

Guests 13 to 17 years of age can have services and treatments under 2 conditions: a parent or guardian must book the services and treatments, and a parent or guardian must accompany them for the duration of the treatment. I didn't see any teens in the spa during my time there so I am unsure how common it is but it's nice to give them the option. They do offer teen specific facials according to one of our friends on the cruise which is a nice luxury for teens to enjoy.

You can read all about the different services offered at the Disney Cruise Senses Spa & Salon on the Disney website. 

Disney Cruise Rainforest Room

One area that is worth splurging in during your stay is access to the Rainforest Room!

You can book this per day or for the duration of your stay but it gives you access to the spa's rainforest-themed aromatherapy steam rooms, a dry sauna fashioned after a Roman bath, stone heated beds, hot tubs, and more.

On the Disney Dream, the hot tub overlooks the water and made for such a tranquil experience.

The heated stone beds were heaven to lay on!

Prices change depending on the duration of your cruise but a Day Pass to the Rainforest Room is usually around $39 per person and a voyage length pass could be as high as $189 for an eight night sailing. Passes are extremely limited in order to keep the area peaceful and not crowded. If you are interested in booking, visit the Senses Spa & Salon on embarkation day and sign up.

Adult Only Disney Cruise Dining & Lounges

All of the Disney Cruise ships have adult exclusive lounges and dining options. This is also where many adult only events take place during your cruise. Sometimes the lounges will offer all ages events but they will mainly be adults only.

As for adult exclusive dining options, these include:

• Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement- Disney Wish
• Palo Steakhouse- Disney Wish
• Palo- Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy
• Remy- Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy
• Senses Juice Bar- Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy

Remy is popular for brunch and books up quickly. Palo is on every Disney Cruise ship so it's the dining experience that most cruisers are familiar with. Senses Juice Bar is located in the Senses Spa & Salon which makes it an easy pick me up after a spa experience.

All of these dining experiences come at an additional cost and are not included in the cost of your cruise.

For lounges, these will vary depending on your Disney Cruise ship. The newer ships like the Disney Wish and the upcoming Disney Treasure , feature Disney themed options like a Star Wars lounge and Disney theme park attraction lounges.

Cove Cafe is an adult exclusive coffee and bar lounge which is a nice getaway for adults to enjoy a peaceful cup of coffee. And of course, you can find the lattes with Disney artwork here too.

Adult Exclusive Disney Cruise Activities

There are plenty of adult only activities on the Disney Cruise ships to enjoy during your cruise. These range in variety from Disney character drawing classes in the lounges to night club events to wine tasting. There is so much to do for adults on a Disney Cruise!

I especially appreciate how a Disney Cruise makes the adult exclusive events not just focused on alcohol. It was fun to draw a Disney character with other adults in a more serene setting than the family drawing classes.

But if you're looking for places to enjoy good drinks, all the Disney Cruise ships offer that too! You can get a great variety of cocktails on the ships including the neat champagne cocktail flight (seen above) I enjoyed with friends during our last cruise. They even served it with chocolate to pair which was a nice touch.

I enjoyed one of the wine tasting experiences during my last Disney Cruise which was a fun way to spend the evening at sea. The wine tasting cost $55 and included six different wines to try, a bottle of water, and a pin. The wine tasting lasted about an hour and the cast member leading the tasting was extremely knowledgable about wine.

Depending on the entertainment lineup, there may even be adult exclusive version of the dinner shows. During my last Disney Cruise, one of the dinner shows featured Eric Jones Magic from America's Got Talent and Penn & Teller. The same evening, there was an adult exclusive show with Eric Jones Magic that was a similar version of the earlier show but with more adult humor. This was a really cool offering. I happened to run into Eric Jones before he performed which was a fun ‘meet and greet' in its own right.

The Disney Cruise Line app is your go to place for locating all these adult only activities during your Disney Cruise! There will be events going on each night in the lounges so make sure to look at the schedule and see what's available.

Adults can find plenty to do onboard a Disney Cruise ship whether you partake in some of the additional cost experiences or activities or just enjoy the complimentary entertainment for adults.

Plan Your Disney Cruise!

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• Disney Treasure FAQs & Guide
• Disney Cruise Dates
• Disney Alaska Cruise Guide
• Disney Wish Cruise Ship
• Disney Cruise Line Packing List

Yes, every Disney Cruise line ship includes an area dedicated to adult exclusive offerings including pools, lounges, and more.

Yes, adults can go on Disney Cruises without kids and this is actually a pretty common practice since there are so many adult exclusive activities on the ship.

Disney Cruises consider adults ages 18 and up for access to all the adult only areas.

Yes, there is so much to do for adults on a Disney Cruise. If you are an adult that also enjoys Disney, you will enjoy a Disney Cruise.

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About Lindsay Brookshier

Lindsay is a college English instructor and has years of writing experience through various nonprofits, charities, newspapers, and online magazines. As the content director of Mickey Visit, she oversees article content and leads our fantastic team of writers to meet guest vacation needs. You can still find her writing weekly content to help make your Disney Parks trip fantastic here on Mickey Visit and Disney Dose- you can also view her recently featured posts on Disney Parks travel on Visit Anaheim, Nerd Wallet and SFGate. Lindsay comes from a dedicated Disney family and enjoys taking her son to the Disney parks as often as possible.

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50 Best Cruise Ship Water Parks and Private Islands for Kids

A nyone who’s ever cruised in the Caribbean or Mexico knows how hot a day at sea can get. With temperatures routinely hitting 80 degrees and above, being able to cool off onboard your ship is a must. And for families with young kids and tweens, nothing beats a cruise ship water park with water slides when it comes to keeping everyone happy and refreshed on days at sea.

The Best Cruise Ship Water Parks for Kids of All Ages

Plenty of cruise ships have pools and water slides, but not all of them are a good fit for families with tweens or kids under 10 years old. Pools can get crowded, life guards may not be available, and water slides may be too scary or have height limits.

That’s not a problem with the following cruise ship water parks that have just what’s needed for all ages from toddlers to tweens to teens. From smaller water slides, wading pools, and tipping buckets to water cannons, surprise water spouts, and dancing fountains, here are the cruise ships with the best onboard water parks for every age group.

FAMILY CRUISE DEALS: Kids Cruise Free: These 7 Cruise Lines Let Kids Sail Free

Important note: With the exception of Disney Cruise Line , kids on all other ships must be potty-trained to play in these cruise ship water parks; swim diapers are not permitted on most ships.

Splashaway Bay Aqua Park and Category 6 Water Park on Royal Caribbean

Splashaway Bay aqua park from Royal Caribbean is an ideal cruise ship water park for tweens or kids under 10 who love to zip down water slides, splash through fountains, or get soaking wet beneath a massive tipping bucket. There’s also a Splashaway Bay area for little kids at Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay .

FIRST TIME: How to Make the Most of Your First Cruise Vacation

The main attraction at the Splashaway Bay water parks on Royal Caribbean ships are the colorful water slides, the number of which vary by cruise ship. Generally, you’ll find one or two larger slides for kids ages six and older (minimum height is 42 inches) and one small slide for the toddlers. For the big slide, the maximum weight is 300 pounds. There’s also a splash zone with ankle-high pools of water and an array of other water features (think water cannons, whirlpools, and a drench bucket) to get kids wet and laughing. 

For bigger thrills, look to the Category 6 water park on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . At 17,000 square feet, this is the biggest cruise ship water park in the world, and it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. Spread across two decks, Category 6 boasts a number of firsts at sea: the first open freefall slide, the first dueling mat race slides, the first family raft rides on a cruise ship, and last but not least, the tallest drop slide at sea. It’s a truly epic water park that’s most suited to daredevil tweens and teens.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships with a Splashaway Bay Water Park:

• Adventure of the Seas
• Freedom of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Wonder of the Seas
• Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships with a Splashaway Bay Water Park

Carnival waterworks on carnival cruise line.

Kids of all ages will be dazzled by the brightly colored Carnival WaterWorks water parks found on most Carnival Cruise Line ships. Though the space and design varies by ship, all of the Carnival ship water parks feature one or two water slides, a giant tipping bucket, and kiddie spray zones with fountains and water cannons that are perfect for younger kids.

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Most ships have either straight or curling slides, but Carnival Vista offers up the Kaleid-O-Slide . This water slide, geared toward the seven-and-up crowd, takes riders on mats down a 455-foot-long series of twists and turns while zooming through flashing kaleidoscopic lights and visual effects. Even younger kids will appreciate the Dr. Seuss-themed WaterWorks and spray zone on Carnival Horizon , which includes a massive water-tipping top-hat and two water slides. Some of Carnival’s ships also have racing slides that offer side by side thrills for older kids and adults.

Carnival Cruise Ships with a WaterWorks Water Park:

• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Celebration
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Horizon
• Carnival Jubilee
• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Mardi Gras
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Spirit
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Splendor
• Carnival Venezia
• Carnival Vista

Forest Aquaventure Park, AquaPlay, Polar Park, Aurora Borealis Aquapark, and Ocean Cay Aquapark on MSC Cruises

One of the largest water parks for young kids at sea, the Forest Aquaventure Park and AquaPlay area on MSC Cruises offer a full range of amusements for kids, tweens, teens, and water slide-loving adults. There are four slides, including two racing slides with clear sections that extend out over the side of the ship; an easy, open air spiral slide; and a funky slideboard option with neon lighting. 

SUNSHINE STATE: 7 Best Orlando Water Parks for Families

For the smaller kids under 10, there’s a large shallow pool with fountains to play under, mini slides to give the kiddos a thrill, spray nozzles for getting mom and dad wet, and a giant tipping bucket. Above it all is an enclosed suspension bridge that might look scary and like a challenge to some of the younger kids, but is as safe as can be. 

MSC’s Polar AquaPark, found on MSC Meraviglia and MSC Bellissima , isn’t nearly as toddler-friendly as Forest Aquaventure, which is a good thing for families with older kids and tweens. The water slides here are decidedly teen- and adult-sized, as is the rope bridge. There’s a smallish water slide in the splash zone, and kids under 10 will get a kick out of trying to figure out which is the next tipping bucket to go over (there are lots of them). There are also a few sprayers and a fountain wall for kids to run through. 

And the MSC World Europa has an impressive VR-enhanced water park called the Aurora Borealis AquaPark , which is geared more toward teens and adults than little kids. While it does have a toddler-only pool, the overall experience is best suited to bigger kids. The reef-themed Ocean Cay AquaPark can be found on MSC Euribia .

MSC Cruise Line Ships with a Forest Aquaventure and AquaPlay Water Park:

• MSC Seaside
• MSC Seashore
• MSC Seascape
• MSC Seaview

MSC Cruise Line Ships with a Polar AquaPark:

• MSC Meraviglia
• MSC Bellissima

MSC Cruise Line Ships with an Aurora Borealis AquaPark:

• MSC World Europa

MSC Cruise Line Ships with an Ocean Cay AquaPark:

• MSC Euribia

Reef Splash Zone on Princess Cruises

Thanks to its stellar Reef Splash Zone , the top cruise ship for families on Princess Cruises is Caribbean Princess . One of the best cruise ship water parks for the entire family, Reef Splash Zone features a kid-friendly pool and hot tub, a lounge area with plush seating, and a bar serving up delicious mocktails for the kids. The water park fun centers around Winnie the Whale, with water spraying from her spout and raining from her fluke. Inside her mouth is a pint-sized slide for children under 10. Assorted water sprays are located around Winnie the Whale.

TYPHOON LAGOON VS. BLIZZARD BEACH: Guide to the Disney Water Parks in Orlando

Pro tip: Take it from me: Never turn your back on a tween with their hand on a spray gun.

When everyone’s had enough of the water, you’ll also find oversized backyard games including cornhole scattered around this cruise ship water park. 

Princess Cruise Line Ships with a Reef Family Splash Zone Water Park:

• Caribbean Princess

Nemo’s Reef, Toy Story Splash Zone, AquaLab, and AquaDuck and AquaMouse Water Coasters on Disney Cruise Line

Limited to the eight and under set, the 1,500-square-foot Nemo’s Reef on Disney Cruise Line ships is filled with Finding Nemo characters, countless fountains, pop jets, and spray nozzles. There’s also a toddler-sized water slide with a slip-n-slide feel that will have young kids going back again and again. And, unlike on most other cruise ships, toddlers in swim diapers are welcome to play here. 

KID-FRIENDLY CRUISES: 7 Best Cruise Lines for Families (and Their Most Kid-Friendly Ships)

For the tweens and kids eight years old and up, the AquaDuck water coaster stretches more than 750 feet, and a parent can ride together with their child on a two-person raft that goes up and down and out over the side of the ship. 

In fact, each of Disney’s cruise ships has at least one water play area for younger kids. You’ll find a sprawling water playground called AquaLab themed around Donald Duck’s mischievous nephews Huey, Dewey, and Louie on the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, and Disney Fantasy. On the Disney Wish, a very basic splash area called The Toy Story Splash Zone is geared toward toddlers age three and under, while the AquaMouse water slide—for kids (and adults) seven and older—is Disney’s first theme park-like attraction at sea.

Disney Cruise Line Ships with a Nemo’s Reef Water Park and AquaDuck Water Coaster:

• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy

Disney Cruise Line Ships with a AquaLab for Little Kids:

• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder

Disney Cruise Line Ships with a Toy Story Splash Zone for Toddlers:

• Disney Wish

Kids Aqua Park on Norwegian Cruise Line

All of Norwegian Cruise Line ‘s Breakaway, Breakaway-Plus, and Prima class ships have a Kids’ Aqua Park play area.

The water parks for kids on Norwegian Escape , Norwegian Bliss , Norwegian Joy , and Norwegian Encore have the most to offer, including a large tipping bucket, mesh climbing structures, water cannons you can aim from above, and an exciting kid-sized slide. The water parks for young kids on Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway are less impressive, with just a wading pool, two very tiny slides, and a handful of splash elements. The same can be said for the kids water play area on the Norwegian Prima .

Norwegian Cruise Line Ships with Water Parks for Little Kids:

• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Encore
• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Joy
• Norwegian Prima
• Norwegian Viva

Which Cruise Lines Have Private Island Water Parks?

Several of the most family-friendly cruise lines have their own private islands where you’ll find water parks and splash areas of varying complexity.

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay is a massive water-themed playground of an island sure to dazzle both adults and kids. Among the offerings: Thrill Waterpark with its two towers and 13 slides, plus the Caribbean’s largest wave pool and an obstacle course pool. Perfect Day at CocoCay is also home to the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool, Oasis Lagoon, which has coves, a swim-up bar, private cabanas, swim-up islands with in-water loungers, and a kid-friendly beach entry.

Disney’s Castaway Cay has plenty of water fun to offer as well. You can snorkel, swim with stingrays, zip down water slides in the water park area, and even run a 5K.

Both Carnival and Holland America visit the 2,400-acre Half Moon Cay in The Bahamas. As with Perfect Day at CocoCay and Castaway Cay, there’s a kid’s water park area here as well. Families can also go horseback riding on the beach and swing with stingrays. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay private island does not have a water park.

Note that not all sailings from these lines stop at their private islands, so if this experience is of interest, be sure to check the itinerary before booking.

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 13 Best Outdoor Water Parks in the U.S.
• When Do You Need a Child Travel Consent Form?
• When to Visit Disney World and Disneyland to Avoid Big Crowds

The post 50 Best Cruise Ship Water Parks and Private Islands for Kids appeared first on FamilyVacationist .

Is the Disney Wish Better than the Classic Disney Cruise Line Ships Disney Deciphered: a Disney World planning podcast

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Disney Wish Find us on Youtube - please like and subscribe! If you’re planning to visit Disney World in 2024, definitely check out our Genie+ 101 episode! Looking to plan a Disney World or Disneyland vacation? Let Joe do all the hard work for you, helping you get the best discount, at no cost to you as your travel agent. Get started by e-mailing [email protected] today!  Episode Description Joe finally sailed the Disney Wish! We discuss Disney Cruise Line’s soon to be second newest ship, with some tips about sailing Disney Cruise Line and some things that Joe thinks are better on the Disney Wish than on the classic ships. Plus - is it really that much more expensive to take a cruise than to visit Walt Disney World? Have you sailed the Disney Wish? Let us know by e-mailing disneydeciphered AT gmail DOT com, messaging us on Twitter, or leaving a comment on our Youtube page. You can also follow us on Instagram! Episode Notes (all timestamps are approximate) 5:52 - First impressions of the Disney Wish 7:21 - Driving to Port Canaveral 11:18 - Does the internet work now? 13:09 - Castaway Cay strategy 16:57 - Disney Wish pools 19:23 - The Wish’s different layout and design 22:05 - Quick service food 23:11 - The Grand Hall 24:03 - The Wish’s top notch entertainment 27:11 - A beautiful ship 29:28 - Is it worth it to sail on the Disney Wish for a three night cruise? 33:35 -  Disney dos and don’ts If we've helped you to plan your trip and you'd like to thank us we'd appreciate you considering a one time donation. Or if you'd like to receive bonus content, check out our Patreon page and our special subscriber only content! You can also support the show by buying tickets (if they're the best deal, of course) using our Undercover Tourist link or signing up for Mouse Dining through our link. If you like what you hear, please share and subscribe! Find us on iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify, TuneIn, PlayerFM, iHeartRadio, or Google Podcasts (please leave a positive review if you're enjoying the show), like our Facebook page, or follow us on Twitter and Instagram! Connect with Leslie @TripsWithTykes on social media and Joe @asthejoeflies.

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15 top adults-only cruises for 2025 & 2026.

Pack your bags and leave the kids behind for your next cruise adventure.

Top Adults-Only Cruises

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

If your idea of getting away from it all includes a vacation without the kids, consider booking an adults-only or adults-oriented cruise . While some lines provide a fully adults-only experience (i.e., children are not allowed on board), others offer adult-focused venues and activities on the ship to keep you separate from younger patrons.

The following cruise lines provide upscale amenities, immersive excursions, sophisticated dining options, lively nighttime entertainment and time for relaxation among like-minded – and similarly aged – travelers.

Find your perfect cruise

Viking Ocean Cruises

Courtesy of Viking

Travelers ages 18 and older are welcome aboard Viking 's adults-only ships, which feature destination-focused itineraries around the world. The line's 11 oceangoing ships carry between 930 and 998 guests (at double occupancy) and offer luxurious, comfortable Scandinavian-style spaces. The line will add Viking Vesta to its ocean fleet in 2025.

Viking's exploration program boasts special access to behind-the-scenes experiences curated for travelers who are interested in history, food, the arts or science. Immerse yourself in local culture with a visit to a traditional family farm near Bergen, Norway, or spend an evening dining on Chinese specialties at a home-hosted dinner in Shanghai .

In addition to these off-the-beaten-path excursions, guests can visit iconic sites like the ancient city of Ephesus (Kuşadasi) in Turkey and the Acropolis in Athens, Greece . Viking also hosts onboard enrichment programs like cooking classes and lectures by historians. Cruise fares include stateroom accommodations with a private veranda, all meals (including specialty dining venues), wine and beer at onboard lunch and dinner, 24-hour room service, one free excursion per port, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and access to onboard amenities such as the Nordic Spa and fitness center.

In addition to its ocean vessels, Viking offers river cruises in destinations around the world – including Mississippi River cruises aboard Viking Mississippi. The line also has two Polar Class 6 expedition ships, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris, which traverse waterways from Canada, the U.S. and South America to remote destinations in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages offers an adults-only retreat for guests ages 18 and older. The line currently has three sister ships: Scarlet Lady (the first in the fleet), Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady . The line's fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, is set to debut in September 2025.

All the ships in this adults-only cruise line feature 1,404 cabins (most with balconies) and RockStar Quarters suites, where guests have access to Richard's Rooftop, an exclusive outdoor deck space. The superyacht-inspired vessels boast 20-plus eateries, including restaurants by Michelin-starred chefs, and a variety of onboard fitness and wellness spaces. At Redemption Spa, relax and recharge in the mud room or salt therapy chamber – and then take rejuvenating dips in the hot and cold plunge pools. You can even order a bottle of bubbly anywhere on the ship via the Virgin Voyages app's secret "Shake for Champagne" feature.

Itineraries on Virgin Voyages span destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and Morocco, as well as trans-Atlantic crossings. The line will also feature 21 new ports across its global fleet in 2025, including destinations in Iceland, Turkey, Oman, Italy, Portugal, the Cayman Islands and more. Cruise fares cover meals at all the dining venues and basic beverages such as soda, water, tea and coffee. Gratuities for the crew, Wi-Fi access, entertainment and group fitness classes are also included. While on board, be sure to indulge in a swanky dinner at The Wake and an immersive show at The Red Room, a unique multiform theater at sea.

P&O Cruises

Courtesy of P&O Cruises

Two ships in P&O Cruises' U.K.-based fleet – Arcadia and Aurora – are exclusively for adults 18 and older. Arcadia, the slightly newer of the two ships (debuted in 2005), carries 2,094 guests at double occupancy, plus 866 crew. The ship departs from Southampton in the U.K. and sails to a variety of European destinations, ranging from Spain and the Canary Islands to Norway and Iceland; some cruises visit the U.S. and Canada. The ship will also sail world cruises in January 2025 and 2026.

Arcadia's 15 restaurants, cafes and bars include Indian cuisine with a British twist at Sindhu, as well as steaks and seafood by renowned British chef Marco Pierre White at Ocean Grill. Passengers can take a class to sample the line's branded gins; sip Champagne at Intermezzo, the ship's cocktail and Champagne venue; or enjoy a pre-dinner aperitif at the yacht-inspired Spinnaker. After exploring exciting ports of call, head back on board to enjoy Arcadia's elegant interiors and top-notch service. You can splurge on a stone therapy treatment and a visit to the thermal suite at the spa for some extra pampering, followed by a live show at the three-tiered theater, The Palladium. Then, finish off the evening dancing the night away at The Globe.

Aurora is a slightly more intimate ship, carrying 1,874 passengers (double occupancy) and 850 crew members. A four-level atrium gallery sits at the heart of the vessel. Itineraries include destinations in the Mediterranean, the Baltic, the British Isles, Iceland, the Caribbean and South America. There are 19 restaurants, bars and cafes on the ship, including club-style restaurant Alexandria and casual spots like The Beach House. After dinner, live entertainment and dancing await you at the show lounge Carmen's, as do larger productions at the ritzy 660-seat Curzon Theatre.

Top Cruises Designed for Adults

While some all-inclusive – or mostly all-inclusive – boutique and luxury cruise lines are family-friendly, many of the onboard venues and activities are adult-by-design. Since there are few (or no) activities geared toward younger cruisers and no babysitting services, you typically won't find parents with young children on these ships.

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara's four upscale boutique ships provide immersive travel experiences geared toward adults. These smaller ships – accommodating a maximum of 702 guests – sail waterways and rivers that larger ships can't access, docking in city centers and unique ports of call around the globe.

Many Azamara voyages also offer longer stays and overnights in port, unlike some competitors' itineraries. Some even feature special events, such as a 12-night voyage from Rome to watch the Monaco Grand Prix in May 2025, or a 25-night cruise in February 2025 from Buenos Aires, Argentina , to attend Carnival in Rio de Janeiro . In addition, the line is extending its offerings on Country Intensive voyages in 2024 and 2025 with itineraries in various continental European countries, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Iceland and Australia.

On board, you'll find a wide selection of casual and formal dining options ranging from Windows Cafe to the main dining room, Discoveries Restaurant. Specialty restaurant offerings include top-notch steak and seafood at Prime C and Italian fare at Aqualina. Atlas Bar is a unique venue on Azamara Onward (the line's newest ship), though its artisanal cocktail menu is also available on the line's other ships. Discoveries Lounge is another guest-favorite spot, and wine aficionados will enjoy pairing limited-production and rare vintages from the Wine Cellar with dinner.

Cruise fares include stateroom accommodations; select spirits, wine and beer; gratuities; 24-hour room service; and nonalcoholic beverages. You'll also have access to complimentary AzAmazing Celebrations with special evening and daytime events ashore and on the ship. You can purchase a package that includes additional amenities like unlimited Wi-Fi, specialty dining, shore excursion credits and other perks. Butler service and other extras come with suite accommodations.

Courtesy of Scenic

When it launched in 2019, Scenic Eclipse I was touted as "The World's First Discovery Yacht." The intimate vessel offers an all-inclusive, ultra-luxurious experience for just 228 guests (double occupancy). The line's second luxury yacht, Scenic Eclipse II, which is nearly identical to its sister ship, debuted from Lisbon, Portugal , in April 2023. The Polar Class 6 rating enables these two yachts to sail to destinations like Antarctica; on these expedition-style voyages, the ship carries only 200 guests and offers a nearly one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio.

All suite accommodations include a private veranda or terrace; butler service; state-of-the-art amenities; a king-size Scenic Slumber Bed; and an in-suite minibar stocked with wine, spirits and other personally selected beverages. You'll also find indulgences like onboard helicopters for intimate excursions and the line's submersibles for underwater exploration.

Guests can enjoy up to 10 dining experiences on the ship, including French fine dining at Lumière; innovative Asian flavors at Koko's Asian Fusion; Italian, steak and seafood specialties at Elements; or an immersive dining experience at Chef's Garden @ Epicure. When it's time for an after-dinner drink, sample craft cocktails or the impressive selection of whiskeys available at Scenic Lounge Bar. Other onboard activities include getting an invigorating treatment at Senses Spa or just relaxing with Champagne and spectacular views on deck 10 at the Sky Bar.

Scenic's ships sail to destinations in Australia and the South Pacific; Europe and the Mediterranean; Asia; the Americas and the Caribbean; and the polar regions of Antarctica and the Arctic.

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Following Seven Seas Grandeur's launch in December 2023, this line now has six luxury vessels in its fleet. Regent Seven Seas ' all-inclusive fares include round-trip business class or coach airfare (depending on the destination); complimentary pre-cruise hotel stays; two- or three-night land packages; all meals and beverages; free shore excursions; prepaid gratuities; and more. Seven Seas Grandeur is a sister ship to the elegant Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor ; it features 372 luxurious all-balcony suites and an impressive ratio of 548 crew members to just 744 guests (double occupancy).

In the evenings, diners can choose between French cuisine at Chartreuse; creative Asian fare at Pacific Rim; steaks and seafood at Prime 7; Italian dishes at Sette Mari at La Veranda; or design-your-own-entree options at the ship's largest specialty restaurant, Compass Rose. For a casual evening, plan to dine alfresco at the Pool Grill. Adults can also enjoy pre-dinner cocktails in one of the lounges and nightly entertainment at the Constellation Theater. For a nightcap, sip a fine cognac in one of the ship's favorite hideaways, Connoisseur Club. There are also plenty of options for exercise, fitness and relaxation at Serene Spa & Wellness.

If you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure on the high seas, consider booking the Regent Suite. Situated on deck 14 – and boasting more than 4,400 square feet of indoor and outdoor space – this luxurious accommodation features an impressive balcony with a minipool spa, in addition to two bedrooms, a living room and dining room, and a private in-suite spa. Cruise fare for the suite also includes a long list of high-end amenities such as access to a private dining room called The Study, a personal car and guide in every port, free in-suite spa services, a complimentary cocktail party for eight guests, a private butler and more.

Regent's 2025-2026 Legendary Voyages include sailings to destinations like Barcelona, Tokyo and more. If a world cruise is on your bucket list, you can circumnavigate the globe for 154 nights beginning in January 2026 aboard Seven Seas Mariner.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea's all-inclusive luxury ocean and expedition cruises offer voyages to more than 900 destinations across the seven continents. Silversea's 11 ultra-luxury ships and expedition vessels range in size from 51 to 364 suites and boast spacious ocean view accommodations – most with private verandas. Cruise fares cover door-to-door transfers from home to the ship, including airfare (business class in some destinations) and pre- and post-cruise hotel stays. On board, guests will have butler service, a nearly one-to-one ratio of guests to staff, 24-hour gourmet dining, premium alcoholic beverages, one complimentary shore excursion in each port, gratuities and more.

Silver Ray is set to become the 12th ship in the Silversea fleet when it debuts in summer 2024. The luxury vessel adds more open spaces and top-notch cuisine. Silver Ray is also the second vessel in the fleet to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and is billed as a more sustainable cruise ship.

Four of the line's ships are purpose-built expedition vessels that sail to the farthest reaches of the Earth, including Antarctica, the Arctic and Greenland, French Polynesia and the Pacific, Asia, and more. On these sailings, guests will experience immersive exploration with as many as 28 expedition staff per cruise. Unique upcoming itineraries visit Greenland and the Arctic Circle, as well as remote locales like Robinson Crusoe Island, Tahiti and more.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn features an all-inclusive adult-focused experience on its five luxury ocean vessels and two expedition ships. One of the line's newest ships, Seabourn Pursuit, is an ultra-luxury Polar Class 6 purpose-built expedition vessel with 132 oceanfront veranda suites. The ship is equipped with two submarines for underwater exploration, kayaks and 24 Zodiacs. There's also a 24-person expedition team to assist guests with exploring far-reaching destinations like Antarctica, the Arctic, the Kimberley region of Australia, the Amazon and the Northwest Passage.

The new Seabourn Ovation accommodates up to 600 guests (double occupancy) and offers amenities found on most of Seabourn's ships: well-appointed oceanfront suites, living areas with dining tables, verandas and nearly a one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio. Guests can try Seabourn's new Mediterranean venue, Solis, on four of the line's ships, including Ovation. You'll also find health and wellness programs curated by Dr. Andrew Weil.

The Seabourn Conversations program is another highlight. Accomplished experts host adventures ashore, participate in meals and chat with guests on board. For a special treat, don't miss the Caviar in the Surf beach party. This event (available in select destinations) includes chilled Champagne, caviar, music and a barbecue set against a backdrop of white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Windstar Cruises

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Windstar's six intimate ships accommodate between 148 and 342 guests. Passengers can choose between cruising on one of the line's three-masted Wind Class vessels or one of its three Star Plus Class ships.

Windstar just announced the addition of two new ships to its fleet; Star Seeker is expected to launch in December 2025, followed by Star Explorer in December 2026. These two vessels will feature 112 suites with private verandas and infinity windows, two Owner's Suites with wraparound balconies, a water sports platform, a two-story spa and fitness center, and more. The ships are constructed with ice-strengthened hulls that position them for exploration in remote destinations like Antarctica.

Windstar's adult-focused and casual – but still elegant – onboard experiences feature locally inspired top-notch dining, guest lecturers, a water sports platform on all ships, an open bridge policy and an engaging social environment. If you're looking for a romantic getaway, Windstar is also regarded as one of the most romantic cruise lines for a wedding, honeymoon , vow renewal or anniversary trip, especially in magical destinations like the South Pacific or Europe.

Windstar's smaller ships can reach ports, coves, harbors and villages that are not accessible by larger vessels. They also offer more than 2,000 immersive cultural experiences in port, many with small groups. You'll find culinary-themed voyages in partnership with the James Beard Foundation, as well as wine-focused itineraries around the world. What's more, Windstar's itineraries offer late evenings and overnights in its ports of call, allowing guests to experience local culture and cuisine after dark.

Windstar will begin sailing in South America in December 2025 with the 312-passenger (double occupancy) Star Pride, offering excursions to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the town of Cusco , Machu Picchu and the Galápagos Islands .

Other Top Adults-Only Cruise Options

While these larger ships offer activities for families and children of all ages, adults can also find hidden retreats and venues just for grown-ups. These spaces are typically quieter and situated away from the crowds.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers spaces created with adult guests in mind. On Celebrity Beyond and the newest addition to the fleet, Celebrity Ascent , adults can have a unique dining experience at Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud. The world-renowned Global Culinary Ambassador for the line, Daniel Boulud created the menu at this elegant venue, incorporating dishes inspired by his travels. You'll also find an impressive wine list to accompany your dining experience.

When it's time to relax, The Solarium is a popular adults-only area located on the Resort Deck of all Celebrity ships. This light-filled pool area encased by a glass dome is the perfect quiet space for reading a book or taking a nap. While there, you can also grab a light breakfast or lunch at the Spa Cafe and Juice Bar, or order your favorite cocktail while lounging in the hot tub.

Other adult-focused venues to check out on Celebrity Ascent, Beyond and Apex are the new elevated bar spaces. The Edge series World Class Bar – a popular spot on other Celebrity Cruises ships – features craft cocktails in a beautiful setting. And don't miss the two-story Sunset Bar on Celebrity Ascent, a reimagined space by interior designer and TV personality Nate Berkus. The aft location of the bar offers almost twice the space as previous iterations and beautiful wake views.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

The Sanctuary, a retreat for guests ages 18 and older, offers an escape from bustling public spaces. The relaxing top-deck venue is available on all Princess Cruises ships and features plush lounge chairs, a spa-like setting and Serenity Stewards, who serve light bites and other refreshments. To fully unwind, consider reserving a private cabana, where you can book an open-air massage. The child-free venue varies from ship to ship, with some offering the exclusive Retreat pool, cabanas and a bar area, and newer iterations featuring more space.

Spellbound by Magic Castle is an exciting new venue aboard the line's newest ship, Sun Princess, for adults 21 and older. The collaboration with The Magic Castle private club in Hollywood offers guests an evening of magic, illusions and theatrical cocktails in a Victorian-inspired space.

If you're heading off the ship for an excursion to Princess Cays (the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas), plan to chill out for the day in an adults-only Sanctuary Bungalow. Located just minutes from the ocean and beach, the rentals accommodate four people, and the price includes two complimentary float rentals. You can also order a gourmet picnic to enjoy while lounging on shore.

Back on the ship, adults can reserve a spot for the line's new Winemaker Dinners, a partnership with Caymus Vineyards. These 12-guest evenings are offered fleetwide, two to three times during each cruise. Winemaker Chuck Wagner personally selected the wines from the notable Napa Valley winery to pair with the elevated five-course menu.

Carnival Cruise Line

The Serenity Adult-Only Retreat is located on all of Carnival Cruise Line 's ships. Access to this tranquil outdoor hideaway is complimentary for passengers 21 and older. While there, guests can enjoy relaxing loungers, daybeds and whirlpools. Take in the warm sun and ocean breeze with a signature sangria in hand, or stop for a healthy meal at the Fresh Creations salad bar (available on select ships) for an alfresco lunch.

Disney Cruise Line

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Though Disney Cruise Line tends to attract families and younger travelers, it also offers multiple spaces and activities for adults 18 and older. Disney's newest ship, Disney Wish , boasts several luxurious adults-only venues featuring characters and scenes from "Beauty and the Beast."

For top-notch steaks, contemporary Italian cuisine and panoramic ocean views, make a reservation at the Cogsworth-inspired Palo Steakhouse. If you prefer French-style fare and world-class wines served in an elegant and shimmering setting, Enchanté by three-Michelin-starred chef Arnaud Lallement is the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two. Before dinner at either venue, enjoy a signature cocktail at The Rose. After dinner, you won't want to miss the galactic libations and ever-changing views of faraway galaxies at the adults-only Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge bar.

Depending on the ship, adult travelers can also dance the night away in a trendy club, watch live entertainment or a cabaret show, catch a sports game on satellite TV, or relax with an after-dinner cocktail at a bar or lounge. Outdoors, the kid-free Quiet Cove Pool is a tranquil place to relax on all the ships. For even more pampering, Senses Spa & Salon boasts treatment rooms with ocean views, luxurious spa villas and other amenities. On Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line 's private island, adults can head to Serenity Bay – a scenic, adults-only stretch of the beach.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line has three adults-only outdoor venues for guests 18 and older (though specific spaces vary by ship). On Norwegian 's Bliss, Escape, Getaway and Breakaway ships, the Vibe Beach Club sun deck invites guests to relax in oversized hot tubs and comfy daybeds, adding perks like a full-service bar and chilled towels. Guests can enjoy two-story beach clubs on Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore, while the clubs on Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva include the line's first infinity hot tubs. You can purchase a multiday pass in advance for the club, and cabana rentals are available for more privacy.

At Norwegian Epic's two-level Posh Beach Club, complimentary perks include fruit skewers, cold water spritzers and a snack menu. Multiday passes are available to all adult cruisers, while travelers who book a Haven suite can access Posh Beach Club for free. Spice H2O is another adults-only venue on the Norwegian Bliss, Joy, Escape, Getaway, Breakaway, Epic, Star and Spirit vessels; access is complimentary. At night, the space becomes an open-air dance club where you can spend the evening partying under the stars.

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Solarium is Royal Caribbean International 's complimentary, child-free space open to guests 18 and older. Located at the front of every ship in the fleet, this indoor-outdoor oasis (or indoor-only on Quantum Class ships) offers impressive vistas and endless views of the sea. Thanks to a full glass canopy over the interior space, adult passengers can enjoy quiet lounging areas, swimming pools and whirlpool tubs with a view, no matter the weather. Select ships feature a cascading lagoon for further relaxation.

Be sure to grab a tropical cocktail or zero-proof drink at Solarium Bar (or Sunshine Bar, on Quantum ships) to sip poolside while enjoying the ocean vistas. Guests of both bars must be at least 21 years old when sailing from North America or a minimum of 18 when departing from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

Adult cruisers (18 and older) can relax and chill out at the first suspended infinity pool at sea at The Hideaway on Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Icon of the Seas. The beach-vibe neighborhood, perched eight stories above the sea at the back of the ship, features Champagne cocktails, a DJ spinning tunes, full-size daybeds, a wraparound bar, and endless ocean and sunset views from the multilevel terrace.

Frequently Asked Questions

"Adults-only cruise ships – or adults-only spaces on cruise ships – have become increasingly popular over the years," says Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic. "That's not only because fewer people are having families. It's also because parents themselves often want the chance to get away, either by themselves for a romantic trip or with friends to celebrate a special occasion, girls' or guys' weekend, or milestone birthdays."

"I seek out adult spaces on cruise ships primarily because I want my experience on a ship to mirror my life on land – a little quieter, with more sophisticated food and drink options," she explains. "I also appreciate the opportunity to connect with my friends who are parents in a space where we can have personal one-on-one conversations or let loose a bit with some drinks. Adults with children are more than just their kids, after all – and they also appreciate a space where they don't have to worry about their little ones."

Anne Scully, a partner at the luxury travel company EMBARK Beyond, says, "With so many cruise lines and sailings, it's always a good idea to have options – and adults-only cruises are very popular." She adds, "Viking and Virgin have always focused on adults-only cruises and most river cruises also cater to adult passengers."

Adults-only cruises are designed with guests ages 18 and older in mind, from the staterooms and dining venues to the onboard entertainment and shore excursions. What you typically won't find on board are water or theme parks, climbing walls, game rooms, and restaurants serving kid-friendly foods.

If you're looking for a relaxing, fun and romantic vacation without the kids in tow – and you don't want to deal with the other passengers' children on your getaway – consider booking a sailing specifically for cruisers at least 18 years old. Alternatively, select a cruise line or ship that caters to mostly adults and doesn't offer any services, kids clubs, babysitting or activities for children.

You don't have to be a kid to be a Disney Cruise Line fan. While the line does not have an adults-only vessel within the fleet, there are plenty of kid-free spaces for adults only. Adults can enjoy cocktails, dinner and entertainment in several venues and relax at designated pool areas on the ship. There's also private, adults-only stretch of beach, Serenity Bay, on the line's private island, Castaway Cay.

In addition, Disney offers one of the best programs to keep youngsters entertained at sea, so you'll find that many of the children hang out in the kids club during the day and in the evening. These club spaces are divided by age groups, and they're typically open until midnight or 1 a.m. so parents – and even adults without kids – can enjoy a night out on the ship sans kids.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and Vietnam and Cambodia and an expedition vessel in Antarctica. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

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More details revealed of Haunted Mansion Parlor on new Disney Treasure cruise ship

Words:  Charlotte Coates

| 2 min read

Disney Cruise Line  has shared more details from the first-ever Haunted Mansion-themed bar onboard the new Disney Treasure ship, which sets sail later this year. The themed F&B experience will celebrate over fifty years of the classic Disneyland attraction, the Haunted Mansion, and introduce the world to the saga’s next chapter.

Together with a fresh nautical story, Disney Cruise Line and Disney Imagineers will use design to capture the nostalgia of the original attraction. The location will be like a luxurious ship parlour that used to belong to a cheerful sea captain and his strange but intriguing fiancé before their abrupt and unexplained disappearance.

New ghostly aquarium

During the early stages of the development of Disneyland’s original Haunted Mansion attraction, iconic Disney Imagineer Rolly Crump put forth an innovative idea for a “Museum of the Weird” display. Many of his original concepts were used throughout the attraction as the final design came to be, and other ideas survived in the vault.

One such idea was a ghost fish-filled, enigmatic aquarium. A new generation of Disney Imagineers used Crump’s sketch, which he had created more than fifty years earlier, as inspiration to build a contemporary “Aquarium with Ghost Fish” for the Haunted Mansion Parlour.

The aquarium will weave nostalgia and history with the former sea captain’s mysterious past, telling the story of how he was last seen going to his parlour for a special meal prepared by his betrothed. Only his hat was found floating in the aquarium tank after The Captain and his bride disappeared.

According to a Disney blog post , the Haunted Mansion Parlor’s creepy picture display will feature some of the wandering souls that have taken up residence onboard. They will resemble Disney Imagineers’ 1969 Haunted Mansion murals and use modern technology to entertain guests in new ways.

Characters include The Mariner, the concept of which was created by renowned Disney animator Marc Davis , and The Captain’s enigmatic bride-to-be, who takes cues from Davis’ iconic “cat lady” concept in the original attraction.

The portraits will also inspire a Disney Cruise Line-exclusive commemorative mug collection on the Disney Treasure. The ceramic cups will look like ghost ship planks. The Haunted Mansion Parlor will begin welcoming visitors when the Disney Treasure sets sail on 21 December.

Disney Cruise Line recently showed a glimpse of a new sculpture for the Haunted Mansion Parlor. The sculpture, modelled after Disney legend Crump , is being crafted at a dedicated Walt Disney Imagineering workshop at Disney World.

The Disney Treasure will house new attractions and reimagined experiences themed to films such as  Aladdin ,  Coco,  and  Zootopia . It is similar to the Disney Wish , which started sailing last year.

• Food and Beverage
• Attraction design
• Themed entertainment

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Charlotte Coates

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Age-Specific Activities – Frequently Asked Questions

How many swimming pools are on each ship, and are any for adults only?

Each of the Disney Cruise Line ships has at least 3 different Guest pools and a kids’ water play area. No matter which ship you’re on, there’s a pool geared for younger kids, another for bigger kids and families and at least one reserved just for adults.

For your comfort, pools are heated to keep the water temperature at least 75 degrees. Children’s life jackets are available in the pool areas.

• Disney Dream – Donald’s Pool, Mickey’s Pool, Nemo’s Reef, Quiet Cove Pool
• Disney Fantasy – AquaLab, Donald’s Pool, Funnel Puddle, Mickey’s Pool, Nemo’s Reef, Quiet Cover Pool, Satellite Falls
• Disney Magic – AquaLab, Goofy’s Pool, Nephew’s Splash Zone, Quiet Cove Pool
• Disney Wonder – Goofy’s Pool, Mickey’s Pool, Quiet Cove Pool

AquaLab This water-themed playground has a pool and is a great place for active fun.

Donald’s Pool Bigger kids and families can enjoy a splash, swim or just relax in the sun.

Funnel Puddle Pool Only on the Disney Fantasy, this pool offers a cool place to relax while you enjoy the view.

Goofy’s Pool This perfect family pool offers deck chairs for relaxing and a jumbo television screen.

Quiet Cove Pool Adults and Guests over age 18 can soak up some sun and cool off.

Mickey’s Pool This shallower pool gives younger sailors the perfect place to paddle and play.

Nephew’s Splash Zone Little squirts under 3 can play and giggle in the dancing water.

Nemo’s Reef For kids under 3, this is the coolest place to get wet.

Satellite Falls Only on the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream, adults ages 18 and older can chill beneath a gentle rain curtain.

Policies About Swim Accessories and Equipment Please note the following policies about pool toys and swim accessories:

• Swim goggles that fit only over the eyes are permitted at all pools, hot tubs and waterslides, with the exception of AquaDunk aboard the Disney Magic, where goggles are not allowed.
• Swim masks that cover the eyes and nose are permitted at all pools. They are not allowed on any slides, including AquaDuck.
• Snorkel tubes are not permitted at any pools, hot tubs or waterslides.
• Coast Guard personal flotation devices (PFDs), water wings and flotation sewn into bathing suits can be brought on board and are permitted in all pools and waterslides except the AquaDunk.
• Complimentary flotation vests are provided and may be used in all pools and waterslides except the AquaDunk.
• Floats, rafts and fun noodles cannot be brought on board and are not permitted in the pools.

Policies About Swim Diapers The United States Public Health Service requires that only children who are toilet trained are permitted to enter swimming pools and spas aboard cruise ships.

Children who are not toilet trained are welcome to enjoy Nemo's Reef, where they must wear swim diapers. Please note that swim diapers are not permitted in the pools, hot tubs or spas, the AquaDuck and the AquaLab.

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Related Questions

Does the Fitness Center offer classes, personal trainers or other services?

Are there onboard activities families can do together?

Do any of the onboard swimming pools have age or height restrictions?