20 Disney Cruise Line Tips You Need to Know
Stepping onto a Disney Cruise Line ship feels less like boarding a boat and more like entering a floating kingdom where the “hustle” of the theme parks is traded for the gentle rhythm of the ocean. While the legendary service, Broadway-caliber shows, and world-class dining come standard, navigating a Disney cruise like a pro requires a bit of “pixie dust” planning. Whether you’re looking to dodge the embarkation day crowds, score the best character photos without the lines, or find the secret “adults-only” sanctuaries hidden away from the splash zones, a few expert strategies can transform a great vacation into a truly seamless voyage.
Tips for Booking & Saving Money
- Book as Early as Possible: Disney Cruise prices typically increase as the sailing date approaches. Booking early also ensures you get your preferred stateroom and dining rotation.
- Use a Disney Visa Card: Checking in with this card unlocks 10% off select merchandise (over $50), 10% off digital photo packages, and 20% off certain spa treatments on port days.
- Consider Two Staterooms for Large Families: If you have a party of five, booking two connecting inside staterooms is often cheaper than booking one “Deluxe Family” room that sleeps five.
- Watch for “Guaranteed” Rates: Look for IGT (Inside), OGT (Oceanview), or VGT (Verandah) categories. You can’t pick your exact room, but the savings are significant.
- Book Your Next Cruise Onboard: Visit the “Next Vacation” desk to place a placeholder deposit. This usually grants you a 10% discount on a future cruise and a reduced deposit.
Stateroom Tips
- The “Split Bathroom” Advantage: Most staterooms feature two separate bathroom areas—one with a toilet and sink, and one with a shower/tub and sink—allowing two people to get ready at once.
- Decorate Your Door: Disney ship doors are metal. Bring magnetic decorations to personalize your stateroom; it’s a fun tradition and helps you find your room in long hallways.
- Store Suitcases Under the Bed: The beds are specifically elevated to allow standard suitcases to slide underneath, freeing up valuable floor space.
- Bring an Old Hotel Key Card: To keep the power/lights on in your room, you must insert a card into the slot by the door. Use an old hotel key instead of your “Key to the World” card so you don’t accidentally leave your room key behind.
- Magnetic Hooks are Essential: Because the walls are metal, heavy-duty magnetic hooks are perfect for hanging wet swimsuits, lanyards, or day bags.
Dining & Food Tips
- Order “All Hands on Deck”: This is a popular (and free) room service cheese plate. It’s perfect for snacking on your verandah before dinner.
- Free Room Service: Most room service items are included in your fare. Don’t forget to tip a few dollars to the crew member who delivers it.
- Soda is Free on Deck: Unlike most cruise lines, soda is free at the 24/7 beverage stations on the pool deck. However, you will be charged for soda ordered at bars or through room service.
- The “Secret” Drink Station Tip: Bring your own large insulated refillable mug (like a Yeti or Tervis). The cups provided at the drink stations are small, and a larger mug keeps your drink cold longer.
- Request a Private Table: If you prefer not to sit with strangers, you can request a private table through your travel agent or at the dining desk upon boarding (though not guaranteed).
Onboard Activities & Packing Tips
- Download the Navigator App Early: Do this before you leave home. Once onboard, it becomes your primary source for schedules, menus, and a free chat feature to message family members.
- Carry-On Your Swimwear: Checked luggage can take several hours to arrive at your room. Wear or carry your swimsuit so you can hit the pools or the AquaDuck immediately after boarding.
- Bring Your Own Alcohol: Adults (21+) can bring up to two bottles of unopened wine/champagne or six beers at the beginning of the cruise and at each port. These must be in your carry-on, not checked luggage.
- Characters at Night: Lines for character meet-and-greets are often much shorter late at night or during the first dinner seating (if you have the second seating).
- Pack Laundry Pods: Every Disney ship has self-service laundry. Bringing your own pods saves you from buying expensive detergent onboard.
Are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line?
