I have a confession: I am a big Disney fan. I’ve been to the parks more than a dozen times, beginning as a tiny tot and ending just last month to celebrate the holidays (Old Hollywood style). I’m also a Disney entertainment fan, a D23 member, and aspiring Disney content developer (if only I could grasp TikTok). Despite my love, I still had one Disney event on my bucket list: the fabled Disney cruise.
The Walt Disney Company’s Experiences division (which includes Disney Cruise Line) reportedly generated a record-high $34.1 billion in topline revenue in 2024, with a 6 to 8 percent increase expected in 2025, thanks in part to a flurry of new offerings added to the cruise division lineup. The firm now operates six ships—Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, and Disney Treasure—with two new vessels planned for 2025: Disney Destiny and Disney Adventure.
With all of this excitement, I decided it was about time I took a Disney cruise myself. So I collected some of the most devoted Disney fans I know—my boomer mother, my millennial sister, and my cute 6-year-old Gen Alpha nephew—and embarked on an unforgettable journey. If you’re planning a similar trip, here’s what you should know before you book.
Disney Cruise Line Destinations & Pricing
Disney Cruise Line provides a wide range of destinations around the world, including the Bahamas, Northern Europe, Alaska, Hawaii, and the Mediterranean. The tours range in length from a brief two-night escape to a prolonged 14-night adventure, depending on the destination. Similarly, Disney Cruise Line pricing varies greatly depending on destination, trip length, cabin option, and time of year, ranging from $1,000 to $14,000 or more for two adult travelers in a single stateroom.
Our Disney Cruise Ship: The Disney Magic
Our family vacation was on Disney’s debut cruise ship, the Disney Magic. The Magic is the oldest vessel in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, having made its debut in 1998—but don’t be fooled by her senior age. Thanks to recent upgrades and modernizations, this ship is a favorite among Disney fans and frequent floaters. (While on board, we spoke with several other cruisers who insisted this ship was their favorite because to its age. It’s smaller, cheaper, and usually less congested than newer vessels.) Highlights on the board include:
- Three rotational dining experiences (Rapunzel’s Royal Table, Lumiere’s and Animator’s Palate) plus a buffet and tons of quick-service options
- Broadway-style performances in the Walt Disney Theater, including Tangled: The Musical and Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic
- Three onboard pools (a family pool, an adults-only pool and a splash pad for 3+) and the AquaDunk waterslide
- Disney’s Oceaneer Club for kids, including Marvel Super Hero Academy and Andy’s Room
- Deck parties, character meet-and-greets and fireworks at sea
Disney also provides themed events on select cruises to help you get into the festive spirit. With a fall departure date, we enjoyed Halloween on the High Seas, which included a variety of special onboard events like as trick-or-treating, Mickey’s Mouse-querade party, meet-and-greets with Disney characters dressed in costumes, as well as eerie decorations and special food.
Our Disney Cruise Destination: The Bahamas
Our three-night cruise left Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and traveled to Nassau and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney’s brand-new tropical refuge on the Bahamas’ island of Eleuthera. A breathtaking retreat with white-sand beaches, crystal-clear blue sea, and a plethora of family-friendly activities, this port of call was a highlight for my entire family.
We admired how the architecture and design of everything from the dining pavilions to the cultural center appeared to be influenced by the island itself, with dramatic structures resembling enormous seashells seen along the coast. The overall atmosphere felt like a celebration of Bahamian culture, thanks to the family activities and entertainment options (including a local Junkanoo celebration) and the permanent art works that subtly submerged you in Eleuthera’s customs and craftsmanship.It’s a big cry from other tropical cruise places I’ve visited (which can best be described as an overly constructed lump of sand with a questionably sound waterpark slapped on top). In my perspective, Disney’s collaborative efforts and careful touches are what distinguish it from other large cruise companies.
A Multi-Generational Disney Cruise Review
Three generations taking on a Disney cruise (and staying in a single stateroom)? Yep, you better believe we had thoughts.
The I’m-Just-Happy-To-Be-Here Boomer
Q: How are you liking the Disney cruise so far?
A. “This is my first cruise! I have always been anti-cruise, sad to say, because I thought it was foolish to be stuck on a boat. But when you’re stuck on a boat like this, Merry Christmas! It’s great. And the size is perfect for me. I honestly don’t believe I’d want anything bigger. It’s perfect. It is still massive and a true engineering wonder. Even if it was erected in the late 1990s or thereabouts. And it’s simply great. I have a lot of questions about the radar and the strange tiny balls in front of the boat. Is there a number I can call to inquire?
“[Plus,] the team cannot do enough for you. They’re all so enthusiastic and upbeat, and they’re all about Disney. It simply makes you feel cheerful. Yesterday, we had plenty of time to stroll around, and they explained everything. We had a wonderful dinner at Rapunzel’s Royal Table and witnessed the most amazing production [Tangled: The Musical]. I mean, some of those folks belong on Broadway. They are really great, and the production was stunning. And the stateroom is quite large. There are four of us in here, and we aren’t bouncing off one another. It’s wonderful.”
Q: Is a Disney cruise a good family trip for multiple generations?
A: “I believe it’s an excellent family vacation because everything you could possibly desire to do is available in one location. I believe it is a great safe atmosphere for children, and it is delightful for all three generations. I mean, I am a kid at heart, but that is beside the point. Nonetheless, it’s fantastic to be here with my two daughters and grandchild. It’s the best!”
The Meticulous Millennial Mom
Q: How would you describe yourself as a mom?
A: “I am a fun, cool mom. I enjoy a cocktail now and then, and the ones on the trip were great. But at $17 [each], it might not have been worth it, and I’ll now owe my sister $34.”
Q: Is a Disney cruise a good family trip for multiple generations?
A: “I believe it’s an excellent voyage for three generations. The stateroom is spacious if your group consists of two adults and two children, but if you’re traveling with more and can afford it, I recommend booking two rooms, as the pull-out sofa is not the most comfortable and, unfortunately, the bunk bed only supports 220 pounds and should only be used by a child. I also wish the top bunk safety bar was longer and more sturdy.I do, however, enjoy having a balcony. If you are claustrophobic and dislike being stuck indoors, you will undoubtedly benefit from having a balcony. It’s worth the extra cost. It’s also lovely to wake up and view the water. It’s the most peaceful way to get up in the morning.”
Q: What about the meals?
A: “The food has been fantastic and has accommodated all types of diets.” Halal, kosher, vegetarian, and vegan options are also available. Ah, and allergies. Disney is highly aware of food sensitivities.
Q: How so?
“For starters, we had the same serving personnel for all of our sit-down meals, so we didn’t have to explain our group’s allergies repeatedly. Each restaurant also featured specific allergy menus with logos next to each allergen-free item, so you can be confident that everything on the menu has been thoroughly inspected. That was a big relief as a mother. I also think the allergen-free food options were excellent.It didn’t feel like we were missing out on much compared to the standard menu. Just keep an eye on the buffet in case your child can’t read yet or is impulsive—I recommend parents accompany young children if they have certain food allergies.”
Q: Any can’t-miss dishes?
A: “I thoroughly enjoyed the cuisine and entertainment at Animator’s Palate. The black truffle pasta purseittes were my favorite appetizer of the entire trip, and while I don’t want to spoil anything, the meal concludes with a surprise appearance by one very famous sorcerer. For dessert, Lumiere’s Grand Marnier souffle was a standout. I particularly loved their crispy roasted duck breast dinner and Gaston’s escargot gratinée appetizer, which was wonderful.And it wouldn’t be a Disney cruise without their famed chicken tenders, which are available in the buffet and a few quick-service restaurants. My son might say that his favorite food on board was the limitless soft-serve ice cream, so take that how you will. Oh, and if you want an insider tip: on the last day of your cruise, the buffet will serve Mickey Mouse CHURRO WAFFLES, which are really delicious.”
Q: What about the entertainment? Is it engaging for all ages or should parents plan on napping through it?
A: “I appreciated the onboard entertainment. Tangled: The Musical was an excellent theatrical production. I enjoyed how they incorporated the movie into the show. It seemed like a Broadway show, it was that good. My anxious 6-year-old sat through the entire thing without complaining and couldn’t stop talking about how great it was days later.”
Q: Any other features you liked or didn’t like?
A: “Oh, I also like how when you wake up in the morning, channel one plays a replay of the cruise director telling you what’s going to happen for the day. So, today we’re going to explore the island of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, and tonight we’re going trick-or-treating with Mickey Mouse and friends. “How fun!”
The Easy-Going 6-Year-Old Gen Alpha
Q: How are you liking the Disney cruise so far?
A: “It’s great. We watched Ratatouille at the pool before going to the jewelry store, where I received a wonderful charm made of real gold for free. It was amazing, I liked it, and it was really cool. I have it in my pocket right now. Today is the second day of the trip, so I’m going to acquire my bracelet today. Last night, I had a wonderful pasta meal and saw [Tangled: The Musical]. My favorite characters were Rapunzel and Flynn Ryder. I liked only those two.
“Mama also gave me a gift; I received Stitch! He’s currently sharing a bunk bed with me. Tomorrow, we’ll disembark from the ship to visit the island Lookout Cay near Lighthouse Point, where I’ll swim and play in the sand.
Q: Do you think a Disney cruise is fun for kids?
A: “It’s a blast for the youngsters! Remember what they stated on television? They were right when they said, “We’re going to have a blast.”
The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?
Boomer: “For someone who has always viewed cruises with skepticism, my experience on the Disney Magic was wonderful. The ship was just the right size, the staff made us feel welcome the instant we boarded and in true to Disney fashion, the Halloween theme was well done throughout the ship. The accommodations were very nice and efficiently designed. I especially appreciated all the preplanned options for activities. We didn’t have to think about what to do next, we only needed to figure out how to get there. The themed dinners were amazing experiences with excellent food and entertainment and careful accommodations for anyone with food allergies. The beach day at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point was fun, too! All in all, it was a delightful trip. The most memorable part for me, though, was sharing it with my daughters and grandson.”
Millennial: “The ship was luxurious, yet small enough to enjoy and easily explore. The dining experiences were so fun and interactive, my favorite was Animator’s Palate. The crew on the ship were so welcoming and accommodating to us as well, from beginning to end!”
Gen Alpha: “I liked the food, the Disney characters and the dining experience. I liked swimming in the pool and the unlimited ice cream when my mom allowed it. My favorite was the strawberry vanilla twist! The games on the top deck were fun to play. I played so much ping pong and foosball.”
