Picture this – sailing to tropical destinations, eating unrestricted amounts of delicious food and snacks, enjoying Broadway quality entertainment, waking up to the sun rising on the sparkling ocean water, all with your favorite Disney characters onboard. A Disney Cruise Line vacation is a dream come true and gives the feeling of an all-inclusive trip allowing everyone to relax and enjoy their time away from home beginning with your first step on board.
Beyond registering for optional excursions when your designated ship is at port, did you know that there is a large selection of magical extras that you may add to your Disney Cruise itinerary that further enhance your experience on board? Consider these options below when booking your next Disney Cruise!
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
If you’re traveling with little ones, smaller cruisers have the option to book an appointment at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique where they are transformed into a princess, knight, pirate, or sea captain! Choose from a variety of packages that allow you to bring your own outfit or purchase one new. This is an ideal activity for a day at sea. This experience is currently offered on the Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream, Fantasy, and Wish for ages 3 and up.
Royal Court Royal Tea
Princes and princesses ages 3-12 are invited to this elegant assembly where your can dine and enjoy tea with Disney characters. This setting allows for more intimate interactions and photographs as well as the experience of dining with true Disney royalty! Book Royal Court Royal Tea on the Disney Wonder, Dream, Magic, and Fantasy.
Virtual Sports Similators
Find Goofy’s Sports Deck on the Dream and Fantasy for a fun place for kids to play basketball and mini golf. Simulators for basketball, football, hockey, golf, soccer, baseball are also available to rent and can be set to play different skill levels and games. Packages for simulator rentals of various lengths and prices can be purchased onboard.
Adult Exclusive Dining and Lounges
While Disney Cruises are very family-friendly, there are certain adult-only experiences on every ship. Whether you are taking advantage of the free Kids Clubs to enjoy a child-free evening or are traveling without little ones in toe, dress to impress as you dine at more sophisticated restaurants. Try Palo for northern Italian food on the Magic, Wonder, Dream, and Fantasy and if you want to learn how to prepare some of their delicious dishes consider booking Palo Be Our Chef to cook alongside cast members in the kitchen! Also on the Dream and Fantasy is Remy featuring fine French cuisine. Once you book your Disney Cruise vacation, you will be able to make a reservation for these restaurants as well as see the prices for the experiences.
Each ship hosts a variety of adult-only themed lounges as well. Sip on your favorite cocktail, participate in a beverage tasting, and even enjoy live shows at some locations. The lounges are intricately-themed and staffed with the most hospitable cast members who are dedicated to your service. If you are on board The Wish, be sure to visit the Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge and The Bayou, which is themed to Princess Tiana and her hometown of New Orleans.
Onboard Gifts
Once you book your Disney Cruise, you will have the option to browse and purchase a variety of “onboard gifts.” While these vary by ship and departure port, they include everything from birthday cakes and flowers to specialty robes, backpacks, and special bedding and room décor. These can be worthwhile if you are celebrating something special during your Disney Cruise.
Unlimited Digital Photo Package
Similar to Memory Maker at Disney Parks, guests of Disney Cruise Line can purchase a digital photo package that documents all of the fun activities and character meet-and-greets on board. Simply smiling for the photo without having to fumble for a phone or camera is a worthwhile convenience and one that all family members can appreciate once the cruise has ended. Having high-quality photos from which you can print portraits, make scrapbooks, and browse on a gloomy day is truly the best souvenir! Private photo sessions are available at Shutters Portrait Studios for an additional cost.
Spending additional money on an already fantastic vacation is not always necessary, but something to consider when budget allows. Other ways to elevate your Disney Cruise Line vacation without breaking the bank include decorating your stateroom door with Disney magnets, wearing matching shirts, and creating simple costumes for the themed nights. If you’re an adult looking for some quiet time away, take advantage of the onboard fitness center and quiet cove pools at no additional cost. Have you ever upgraded your Disney Cruise with any of the above magical extras? Are there any experiences that you would do again? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
Written by
Shelley Wehler
Contributing Writer
Shelley is a stay-at-home mother of two girls living outside of Charlotte, North Carolina. Her love of all things Disney has grown even more as she sees the magic come alive through the lens of her young daughters. She spends her free time keeping up with the latest in Disney news and daydreaming of her next trip to the parks!
