Disney Cruise Experience: Pros and Cons

As a traveler I love experiencing new things… however, I’ve always stayed away from cruises. The thought of being stuck, whether in boredom, dissatisfaction, or even during illness, seems like a perfect recipe for a beautiful nightmare. I however, have done shorter cruises (approx. 8 hours) but have never really enjoyed them. At some point I begin contemplating if I could survive throwing myself overboard. A little dramatic I know, but I am not always the most rational when being tortured with boredom. After many persuasive recommendations from coworkers and friends, I decided to give cruising another shot. Following their advice, I opted for a longer cruise, lasting more than three days.

I decided on Disney’s 4 day/3 night Magic cruise. I know what you’re thinking…why would a single woman without any kids want to go on a Disney cruise? Well, hear me out. First, I enjoy Disney World! Although I prefer going in the evening, when the sun isn’t my life force. Depleting me of every vital sweat molecule, during Florida’s summer heat (if you know you know). Also, the Disney fanatics have somewhat tired. Even if only fractionally. They aren’t pushing you out of the way to ride space mountain for the 3rd time. Hopefully they have all gone home (unlikely). Secondly, I absolutely love Disney movies, they are always so entertaining! Who doesn’t love that opening scene from every Disney movie? Cinderella’s castle illuminates at night while Tinker Bell sparkles like a shooting star in the sky. Its right before every Disney movie begins. Honestly! Disney knows how to entertain!! I also really love Epcot’s food and wine festival. The foodie in me tries to go almost every year. I can’t resist getting a bite of the truffle butter filet minion steak and having some Canadian wine. I figured the food should be wonderful on their cruise line. Lastly, I’ve always felt like Disney provides optimal customer service. So, with all these factors along with the constant recommendations, I decided to give Cruising with Disney a try.

As per recommendations, I was sure to schedule a spa service. I decided on a rejuvenating, anti-aging facial, which was the absolutely the best! I got a lovely facial from a South African lady who had my face shimmering with a radiant glow. I mean I would have gotten a facial everyday if it didn’t cost 1/2 a kidney. My friend didn’t get a massage/facial, instead, she bought a 3-day membership to their rain room. She was able to enjoy the sauna, hot & cold rooms, and also the steam rooms. She used it daily for mental peace  & a little escape from the excess abundance of little humans.

The next two days consisted of a trip to Disney’s private island. The island was absolutely stunning. We also stopped at Nassau Bahamas. It had nice island vibes but was similar to other islands I’ve seen before.

On board there were events, such as a pirate party, followed by fireworks, tequila tasting, and themed dinners. We also reserved a fancy adult only dinner at Palo. The meal there I must say was exquisite. The textures and the taste of the food was absolute perfection. The restaurant was located at the back of the boat. It presented a view overlooking the ocean all while enjoying a decadent meal.

On board there were events, such as a pirate party, followed by fireworks, tequila tasting, and themed dinners. We also reserved a fancy adult only dinner at Palo. The meal there I must say was exquisite. The textures and the taste of the food was absolute perfection. The restaurant was located at the back of the boat. It presented a view overlooking the ocean all while enjoying a decadent meal.

Disney Cruise Pros

So here’s my personal review…I can’t really say that I would ever do a Disney cruise again. However, I would consider it if there was an adult only option. I’ll start with my pros. Then, I’ll give you my cons. This provides a clear understanding of what I liked and didn’t like.

1. It’s Disney ..Disney is always Magical- Disney movies, Disney songs, Disney characters…Disney Crowds (sorry, I couldn’t resist, lol)..even their fireworks! They have a way of making everything feel magical and wondrous.
2. Good customer service. As always, Disney’s customer service is top tier. The staff seem to genuinely love their jobs. They take pride in making every guest feel special. My waiter was our designated waiter for the entirety of the trip. He seemed truly heartbroken one night, when I showed up for dinner with very little appetite. I wasn’t able to eat much. Honestly, I’ve never seen so much concern mixed in with disappointment. Not even from my mother! after saying the heartbreaking words “I’m not really hungry,” He was truly endearing.
3. The diverse staff. It was perfectly diverse. People were from countries I’ve never even heard of. The pool DJ was playing music I only get in a reggae … (Adult section only of course)
4. The food was pretty good. I wasn’t blown away…but I did enjoyed my food so I’d say that counts as a win
5. You’re allowed to bring two bottles of wine – per guest, HOWEVER. There is a corkage fee of $25 per bottle, when opened in their restaurants.
6. The spa is a must experience…It. Is. Blissful!
7. The stateroom was a nice size…I survived, even as a claustrophobian. I slept well.

Disney Cruise Cons

1. The kids…now this may not be a con for everyone, but for me…Good Lord! There was just so many kids! It seemed to be an even a higher ratio than Disney World.
2. Not alot of adult activities, or adult only areas. If you’re looking to party, forget it…not really the vibe. To paint a picture, at 10pm, the Soul Cat Lounge’s dance floor, was taken over by…. you guessed it…kids.
3. You. Pay. For. Everything…. Practically. not even complimentary water bottles in your room!! Now you can get room service, but you pay for anything of liquid consistency. If you want water, juice, or drinks, you pay. Now there is one free soda machine, but it’s located in a very crowded area of the boat. So, you will remain dehydrated, unless you’re willing to take a Lord of The Ring’s journey to get there. If not, then you pay.
4. If you are single without kids…don’t do it girl, don’t do it! … nothing but families and married couples…you may have to sign up for singles therapy after.
5. Mickey & Minnie characters was a challenge to find or take pictures with. There were few appearances, and when you did find them there was a very long line already formed for pictures. So we didn’t take any.

In conclusion, being the traveling wanderlust that I am… I can honestly say that cruising is not for me. I like to really explore a country when I get there. Cruising, in general, only gives you about a single day to see what you can. Then, you have to leave by 4pm. It’s an easier way of traveling, & definitely optimal for older individuals or people with large families. I prefer the exciting feeling of walking out of an airport. Stepping into a new country ready to explore and immerse myself in the differing cultures. I’m not sure that’s really possible, when I’m spending the majority of my time on a boat.

Even though cruising wasn’t really my thing. I met so many people who genuinely enjoy the experience. So, I would definitely recommend trying it out yourself. I hope this was informative if not, then entertaining. Feel free to share your experience with me, I’d love to hear 

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