10 Reasons a Disney Cruise Should Be Your Next Vacation

If you've ever heard a friend, family member, or even a significant other ask you, "Don't you ever want to go anywhere other than a Disney Park?" you're not alone. We get this question A LOT - and to be honest it was something Matt asked Krystle before he too became a full-fledged Disney addict. While it may seem like an outlandish idea to go anywhere else other than Disney for us in the Ohana, it's definitely an understandable sentiment for many people. However, that doesn't mean we can't try our hardest to get them on board lol.

And even though we would all be ok just going to our favorite Disney park for the rest of our lives, that doesn't mean we too can't enjoy other destinations. But have no fear, for Disney is here! With parks around the world and their Adventures by Disney offerings, Disney fans have more opportunities than ever to explore new areas of the world, all while still enjoying Disney.

We hope to one day visit other parks outside of Orlando and try our hand at an ABD, but there is another Disney vacation (that we have enjoyed multiple times) that also gives you the chance to explore outside of the parks and has become one of our favorite ways to vacation with Disney. Of course, that is the Disney cruise line!

Imagine the storytelling, service, and pixie dust you love about the parks—then set it adrift on the open ocean. From the moment you hear the ship’s horn play “When You Wish Upon a Star,” it’s clear this isn’t just a cruise… it’s a floating Disney destination.

Whether you’re cruising with little ones, teens, or a group of grown-up Disney fans, Disney Cruise Line has mastered the art of making everyone feel like the vacation was designed just for them.

It's the perfect way for us Disney Addicts to enjoy a different type of vacation while still getting that Disney feeling, and just may be that nudge to convince those a little more hesitant about a Disney vacation to dip their vacation toes into the Disney universe. We've heard from many "non-Disney addicts" that it was a Disney cruise that made them more willing to vacation with Disney!

We LOVE so much about Disney cruises and can't wait until our next one this summer. There are many reasons why we enjoy them so much, but we're going to try our best to narrow it down a bit for you so...

Here are ten reasons why a Disney Cruise deserves a top spot on your travel wish list.

1. Where Magic Meets the Ocean

A Disney Cruise isn’t simply transportation to tropical ports—it’s a fully immersive experience. From themed spaces inspired by Disney stories to Cast Members who deliver legendary service, the magic starts the second you step aboard and never lets up.

If you (or the person you're trying to convince) prefers the beach/ocean over a theme park, a Disney cruise is the perfect way to blend both. You'll enjoy being on the ocean with stops at various ports all while enjoying the magic of Disney.

Pro Tip: if you NEED outdoor space with your room (e.g. a balcony) try to snag a room at the rear of the ship - the verandahs are much larger!

2. Broadway-Caliber Entertainment— Every Night

Disney Cruise Line’s stage shows rival what you’d see in New York or at the parks. Original productions featuring beloved characters, stunning effects, and live music are included in your cruise fare—and there’s a new show almost every night.

They offer a fun mix of original stories created just for the cruises, as well as, more well known Disney favorites. The best part is they offer multiple different shows throughout the course of the cruise! We LOVE Aladdin on the Fantasy and can't wait to see Hercules aboard the Destiny this summer!

Pro Tip: Popcorn is NOT included on a Disney cruise. However, if you have a popcorn bucket from the parks or another cruise they will let you use for the refill price, so pack that bucket!

3. Rotational Dining That’s Actually Fun

Disney has turned dinner into an experience guests look forward to every evening. With rotational dining, your serving team follows you to different themed restaurants throughout the cruise, blending consistency with variety—and yes, your kids will love it too. We absolutely LOVE the fact that the serving team follows you and gets to know you during your cruise!

Disney let's you request a seating (early or late) but they set the rotation for you. If you are on a cruise longer than 3 nights you will circle back to restaurants you have already dined in. However, shows/menus can change when you return!

Pro Tip(s): You can order whatever you like on the menus! Want to try 2 of the entrees? Just ask! Don't see anything on the menu you like, but enjoyed a dish from the restaurant you ate at last night - you can ask your server if they can get that dish for you and they will try their hardest to make it happen! Also, since your servers follow you if you tell them you'll be drinking the same thing every night or your kid is always going to get chicken fingers, many times they'll have this waiting for you at your table as soon as you arrive! Talk about service!

4. Kids Clubs That Make Parents Jealous

Disney’s youth clubs are in a league of their own. From superhero training and princess encounters to Star Wars missions and creative play, kids often beg to stay longer—giving parents guilt-free time to relax.

Disney's ships have "kids" clubs for all ages included in the price (mostly). Small World nursery services (for a nominal fee) are available for the youngest sailors, Kids Club (ages 3-10), Edge (11-14), and Vibe (14-17) all offer amazing activities for your kids to enjoy under the supervision of AMAZING CMs! Your kiddos will want to spend a lot of time here!

Pro Tip: If you have an anxious cruiser (like our Lincoln) the cruises offer open house times earlier in the cruise that allow parents to visit the Kids clubs with their kiddos to show them what they have to offer and answer any questions they have! Definitely take time to visit (even if YOU just want to see it!)

5. Adult-Only Spaces Done Right

While Disney is famous for family fun, adults aren’t an afterthought. Quiet pools, refined dining, lounges, spas, and late-night entertainment give grown-ups space to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy a vacation that feels genuinely balanced.

Depending on the ship you're on, these adult-only spaces may be in "district-like" areas (mainly in older ships) to more spaced out locations around the ship (newer vessels).

Pro Tip: some of these spots can get busy. If you're ok missing a stage show, these spots are usually less crowded at that time. Also, if you've got kids with you, this is where kids clubs are a blessing as you can let your kids have an hour of fun while you enjoy one of these spaces.

6. Character Encounters Without the Lines

Want photos with Mickey, princesses, or Marvel heroes without standing in line for an hour? On a Disney Cruise, character meet-and-greets are plentiful, relaxed, and often spontaneous—perfect for magical memories without the stress.

Many of the character meet and greets occur in the atrium of the ship on multiple levels. However, you will find characters roaming other areas of the ships and Disney's private islands as well! Many times you can find where they will be in the ship navigator (schedule).

Pro Tip: If you're REALLY looking for a specific character(s) and this would make or break a trip for you, Disney offers special sailings at times aboard specific ships with special themes. For example in the past they have offered. Marvel, Star Wars, and PIXAR days at seas where many characters from those properties can be found!

7. Private Island Perfection at Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay

Disney’s private islands elevate beach days to a whole new level. Castaway Cay (and newer destinations like Lookout Cay) combine pristine beaches, family fun, adult-only serenity, and Disney storytelling—all seamlessly organized and included.

Both locations offer so many fun activities for families to enjoy. from snorkeling to feeding sting rays, to bike riding and BBQs they really have something for everyone's perfect beach day. Or if you're looking for a relaxing adult-only experience, imagine swinging in a hammock right on the beach, or getting a massage in a private cabana overlooking the war!

While both Castaway and Lookout are Disney-exclusive areas, note that Castaway is a true private island, while Lookout is a private peninsula on a larger island. But both spot are just for you and your cruisemates!

Pro Tip: wear sunscreen (lol - but really do it!). Eat breakfast early on the ship (maybe do a room service order the night before). Lunch (the BBQ) is not open the entire time you are on the island so if you plan on eating be sure to keep an eye on opening and closing times (usually around 2pm).

8. Top-Notch Service That Feels Personal

This is easily one of the most special things about DCL in our opinion. Disney Cruise Line consistently earns praise for its exceptional service. Cast Members learn your preferences, greet you by name, and go out of their way to create magical moments—often without you even realizing it’s happening.

Be kind to these CMs. They will help you anyway they can. From the concierges behind the front desk and lifeguards at the pool, to your serving team and room steward, they all strive to make your cruise as memorable as possible. Tip them well!

Pro Tip: Say hi to everyone. Learn their names. Compliment them to their supervisors if you can. they are awesome! While we always tip them at the end of our cruise, we also always pack little things like snacks, books, etc... to give them as many live on these ships for long periods of time and appreciate these just as much.

9. Stress-Free Planning for Families

Cruising with kids can feel daunting—unless you’re on Disney. From stateroom designs to onboard activities and intuitive schedules, everything is thoughtfully planned to make family travel smooth, manageable, and actually relaxing.

You can book A LOT of stuff before you even get on the ship! Do this where you can to make the actual day's onboard all about enjoying rather than planning. Just remember that not everything you might want to do will be available. DCL uses a loyalty system that does allow previous cruisers access to reservations before others.

Pro Tip(s): First, if you don't get what you want prior to embarking (I'm looking at you Paolo brunch) don't fret. Once you get on the ship head to the front desk (there will be a line) and see if they have anything. You can also check throughout your cruise. But don't fear you will always have a good time. Other tip here is of course to use a travel agent that you trust and knows their stuff when it comes to Disney. They'll make sure you're prepared for the vacation,help with reservations, and really just take the last little bit of stress out of your planning process. We of course always recommend our friend Sue Passauer from MEI. She is the ONLY person we let touch our family vacations and we're confident to say to you she'll make your trip as perfect as possible!

10. It’s Disney Storytelling—Just Floating

At its heart, a Disney Cruise is about storytelling. Every detail, from ship design to onboard announcements, works together to make you feel part of something special. It’s not just a vacation—it’s an experience you’ll talk about long after you’re home.

Take it all in. Wander the ship. Explore the details. Try everything you can. It may just open you up to a whole new world of things you enjoy (especially those non-Disney addicts you might be trying to convert lol).

Pro Tip: sometimes the ships offer fun tours and behind the scenes activities. We've done a tour of the kitchens which was just amazing on a past cruise! You can check for stuff like this with the front desk!

Why Disney Cruises Truly Stand Apart

Many cruise lines offer great ships, good food, and fun ports—but Disney Cruise Line delivers something more. It blends world-class entertainment, unmatched service, and thoughtful family design with the emotional magic Disney is known for. You’re not just booking a cruise; you’re stepping into a story where everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—has a starring role.

There are MANY more reasons than the 10 we've briefly written about above (I'm looking at you again Paolo brunch lol), but we hope some of what we've said has maybe helped you make that decision to finally check out or re-visit DCL.

If you’re looking for a vacation that feels effortless, enchanting, and genuinely memorable, it might be time to trade Main Street for the open sea. ⚓✨ A Disney Cruise isn’t just better than other cruise lines—it’s in a category all its own.

Want to Cruise?

Whether you're a veteran cruiser looking to sail with a group of fun, Disney-loving people or are on the fence and maybe a little nervous and would benefit from just knowing there are other people on board you could talk to we invite YOU to join us on our first ever group cruise August 10-15, 2026 aboard the Disney Destiny! We'd love to have you join in on the fun! Check out the "Group Cruise 2026 tab at the top of the site for more info!

Thanks for reading along and as always...See Ya Real Soon!