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Disney Magic Ship Pictures

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On this page you will find pictures of Disney Magic cruise ship. Cruisedeckplans.com also provides links to our own pages filled with Disney Magic public area venue pictures. On all our albums you can click on the picture for a larger image and slideshow. We thank the thousands of contributors for the photos.

Public Area Pictures

Click here for slide show of all areas.

Click on area below to view photo gallery for each area

• After Hours/Route 66 Deck Three Deck (14 pics.)
• Animators Palate Deck Four Deck (26 pics.)
• AquaDunk Deck Ten Deck (7 pics.)
• AquaLab Deck Nine Deck (12 pics.)
• Art Gallery Deck Four Deck (8 pics.)
• Buena Vista Theater Deck Five Deck (12 pics.)
• Cabanas Deck Nine Deck (31 pics.)
• Chill Spa Deck Nine Deck (1 pics.)
• Cove Cafe Deck Nine Deck (9 pics.)
• D Lounge Deck Four Deck (24 pics.)
• Daisys De-Lites Deck Nine Deck (3 pics.)
• Deck Ten Deck Ten Deck (17 pics.)
• Eye Scream Deck Nine Deck (3 pics.)
• Fathoms Deck Three Deck (26 pics.)
• Fitness Center Deck Nine Deck (7 pics.)
• Goofys Pool Deck Nine Deck (27 pics.)
• Its a Small World Nursery Deck Five Deck (21 pics.)
• Keys Deck Three Deck (24 pics.)
• Lobby Atrium Deck Five Deck (60 pics.)
• Lobby Atrium Deck Four Deck (60 pics.)
• Lobby Atrium Deck Three Deck (60 pics.)
• Lumieres Deck Three Deck (17 pics.)
• Mickeys Mainsail Deck Four Deck (7 pics.)
• Mickeys Pool Deck Nine Deck (17 pics.)
• Nephews Splash Zone Deck Nine Deck (2 pics.)
• O Gills Pub Deck Three Deck (37 pics.)
• Oceaneer Club Deck Five Deck (61 pics.)
• Oceaneer Lab Deck Five Deck (47 pics.)
• Outer Promenade Deck Four Deck (14 pics.)
• Palo Deck Ten Deck (29 pics.)
• Petes Boiler Bites Deck Nine Deck (2 pics.)
• Pinocchios Pizzeria Deck Nine Deck (2 pics.)
• Preludes Deck Four Deck (1 pics.)
• Promenade Lounge Deck Three Deck (14 pics.)
• Quarter Masters Arcade Deck Nine Deck (6 pics.)
• Quiet Cove Pool Deck Nine Deck (41 pics.)
• Rapunzels Royal Table Deck Three Deck (24 pics.)
• Senses Spa & Salon Deck Nine Deck (27 pics.)
• Shutters Deck Four Deck (11 pics.)
• Signals Bar Deck Nine Deck (8 pics.)
• Twist n Spout Deck Ten Deck (11 pics.)
• Vibe Teen Club Deck Eleven Deck (2 pics.)
• Walt Disney Theater Deck Four Deck (17 pics.)
• Whitecaps Deck Four Deck (7 pics.)
• Wide World of Sports Deck Ten Deck (7 pics.)

Disney Magic Exterior Ship Pictures

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Disney Magic - Tour and Profile

Cruising with Mickey and All the Disney Characters

The Disney Magic is an excellent mixture of classic ocean liner beauty and Disney whimsy. She is an exceptional choice for family cruising, but provides enough space, entertainment, and activities to draw couples and adults traveling without kids. Disney Cruise Line excels at organization, attention to details, and entertainment, and these three elements are key to a successful cruise experience. Add the characters and the small Disney touches such as the "When You Wish Upon a Star" horn, Mickey's voice on the wake-up call, and the hidden Mickey heads woven in to the decor, and it's a fun cruise for everyone of all ages.

Let's tour the Disney Magic.

A Look at the Outside of the Disney Magic

The Disney Magic was launched in 1998 and has a classic ocean liner look on the outside, with a black hull, shining white top, and two red funnels, both adorned with Mickey heads. There's no doubt which cruise line this ship belongs to! The ship was re-imagined (significantly renovated) in 2013, and some great new features were added. Fans of this magical ship shouldn't worry, most of the great existing features were kept. Most modern ships only have one funnel, and this one is no different--one of the two funnels is a dummy and houses the Vibe teen center. Keeping with the Mickey theme, the life boats are yellow (rather than the standard orange), making the overall look very Disney--black, white, red, and yellow. A glance at the bow will make anyone smile. The bow has intricate gold scroll-work much like classic tall ships of long ago. Mixed in with this elegant detail is Goofy, dangling from a rope and touching up the paint.

Disney Magic - Interior Common Areas

Much of the interior of the Disney Magic is done in Art Deco style, and the ship artwork includes many special Disney theme pieces. Exploring the ship is like a treasure hunt, as you will find yourself looking for the Mickey logo, which is creatively woven into the decor. My favorite common areas of the ship were the soaring three-story lobby and the large Walt Disney Theatre. The lobby is the hub of the ship and features a wonderful bronze statue of Mickey Mouse at the helm. Topping off the lobby is a huge, crystal chandelier. The theatre seats 977 and has some of the best shows I've seen at sea. Each production show tells a story and is like a short operetta, filled with singers, dancers, and (of course) Disney characters.

Disney Magic - Kids' Programs and Youth Clubs

Touring the youth clubs and learning about all the activities designed for kids on the Disney Magic made me want to be under 18 again! 

Click on the links below to learn more about each of the age-specific areas.

The Disney Magic youth clubs are:

• It's a Small World Nursery - 6 months to 3 years (1 year minimum on some longer cruises)
• Oceaneer Club - Pixie Hollow - 3 to 12 years old
• Oceaneer Club - Andy's Room - 3 to 12 years old
• Oceaneer Club - Mickey Mouse Club Room - 3 to 12 years old
• Oceaneer Club - MARVEL's Avenger Academy - 3 to 12 years old
• Oceaneer Lab - 3 to 12 years old
• Edge Tween Club - 11 to 14 years old
• Vibe Teen Club - 14 to 17 years old

Disney Magic - Exterior Common Areas

Many of the activities on the Disney Magic are centered on the out of doors, starting with the high energy sailaway party and continuing each day around the swimming pools. The ship has three pools, one for adults, the second for families, and the third just for kids. Each pool has attractive features such as the mega-movie screen or the Mickey slide, making them the center of daily life onboard for many guests.

A new exhilarating water slide was added to the Disney Magic when the ship was re-imagined. Dubbed the AquaDunk, this is a thrilling experience that only lasts 7 (very memorable) seconds. It's nothing like the AquaDuck found on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. Evening events are also held on the pool deck, the highlight of which is the "Pirates In the Caribbean" party. This party starts with a pirate theme dinner and then moves outside for music, dancing, and fireworks. It's a spectacular ending to a fun-filled night onboard the Disney Magic.

Disney Magic - Dining and Cuisine

The Disney Magic has three main dining rooms--Lumiere's, Carioca's, and Animator's Palate, and guests rotate among the three rooms during the cruise, always sitting at the same table number and with the same dinner companions. The wait staff also rotates, providing continuity to the dining experience. It's a great idea and works well. Although these three dining rooms are good, the highlight of dining on the Disney Magic is a dinner or brunch at Palo's, the adults-only alternative restaurant. Palo's sits on the top deck and has wonderful views, exceptional service, and marvelous food. It even has a private room with a large dining table for adult parties. For families looking for casual fare, the Disney Magic has colorful Cabana's with indoor and outdoor seating, along with several take-away food outlets near the pools.

Disney Magic - Cabins and Accommodations

The Disney Magic carries 2700 passengers in 875 cabins, many of which can sleep 4. Of the 720 outside cabins, 388 have private verandas, perfect for some quiet time to enjoy the warm Caribbean weather. The cabins are brightly colored, with plenty of storage space and practicality. I loved the shelves in a vertically-place steamer trunk used as a storage cabinet. The bath is split into two rooms, one with a sink and toilet and the other with a sink and shower tub. Each bath is tiny, but it is nice to have two separate rooms and two sinks when traveling as a family group. The room steward was efficient and friendly, and kept the cabin clean. He also left us chocolates and towel animal creations each evening to top off the entertainment.

Disney Magic - Lounges and Bars

Although a Disney Magic cruise is centered on families, the cruise line hasn't forgotten how important it is for adults to have private time when on vacation. This factor is very evident on the Disney Magic, with several adult lounges, three of which are grouped together in the After Hours district on deck 3. My favorite was the quiet Keys, with live piano music in the evenings and those marvelous large portholes for ocean viewing. Sports enthusiasts love watching ESPN in the O'Gill's Pub sports bar, and the Fathoms night club provides adult entertainment in the late evenings. These lounges are also used for adult-oriented activities, such as wine tastings, which were among the most well-run and interesting I've ever been to on any ship.

Disney Magic - Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean Cruise Overview

I cruised the Disney Magic to the eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral on a seven-day itinerary that included two delightful sea days followed by two ports of call in the U.S. Virgin Islands -- St. Croix and St. Thomas. While on St. Thomas, I did a half-day shore excursion to the nearby island of St. John. We then had a final day at sea before spending the day at Disney's private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay. Although many cruise lines have private islands in the Caribbean, Castaway Cay is one of the best. This cruise itinerary was a great mix of time at sea and time in port. With so many onboard activities for children, families, and adults, I'm glad we had three sea days to enjoy the Disney experience.

In January 2014, I did a three-night cruise on the Disney Magic from Port Canaveral to Nassau and  Castaway Cay. Although this was a too-short cruise, we still enjoyed many of the activities (like fireworks and Pirates in the Caribbean) featured on the longer Disney cruises to the Bahamas and Caribbean.

Disney Magic European Cruise Overview

The Disney Magic is a delightful way for families or adults to see parts of Europe. The ship sails the Mediterranean roundtrip from Barcelona , and the Disney Magic also sails northern Europe roundtrip from Copenhagen  or London. Fans of "Frozen" get a chance to visit Norway on the London itineraries.

This detailed travel log of a Disney Magic western Mediterranean cruise provides an overview of the ports of call along with some of the special Disney port adventures for families.

Disney offers a terrific Adventures by Disney Short Escape as a pre-cruise option in Barcelona. This three-night adventure provides an excellent look at this marvelous Catalonian city. 

Disney Magic - Summary and Wrap-up

I'll be the first to admit that the Disney Magic far exceeded my expectations. I knew the ship was an excellent choice for families, but never dreamed it would be so much fun for adults traveling without kids. The highlights were the exceptional organization, the amazing Disney entertainment, dining at Palo's, and watching the faces of the children as they interacted with the Disney characters. Of course, we got our photo made with Mickey, too!

Related Articles

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Disney Magic

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Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Disney Magic Cruise Ship Pools and Picture Tour

Are you looking for pictures of the Disney Magic cruise ship pool deck?

No matter on which of the Disney ships you are sailing, the pool deck is always one of the most fun places to be!

With activities like pools, splash pads, and water slides, kids of all ages have so fun things to do.

In this post, I will provide a picture tour of Deck 9 of the Disney Magic cruise ship, including tips for using the pools and restaurants.

Disney Magic Swimming Pools

Splash zones on disney magic cruise ship, disney magic water slides, pool deck restaurants, tips and tricks.

The pool deck is located on Deck 9 of the Disney Magic, which you can see on this deck plan . It is FULL of activities and entertainment for the whole family, including some really fun Disney themed pools!

If you are wondering if the Disney cruise ship pools are heated, you will be happy to learn that they are! Below, I will discuss each of the swimming pools on the Disney Magic, including some important information you will want to know.

Goofy’s Pool

Goofy’s Pool is located in the middle of Deck 9 and is the larger of the two kid-friendly swimming pools. Two hot tubs, which also allow children inside, are situated near this pool as well. 

You are permitted to sit directly on the deck surrounding the pool to watch your child swim. Lounge chairs are also available surrounding this pool, and we never have a problem finding a seat. My six year old was able to stand in Goofy’s Pool, so it isn’t super deep.

We love Goofy’s Pool because it’s near Funnel Vision, which is the giant screen that shows Disney movies while you swim or sunbathe!

Huey, Dewey, and Louie Pool

The smaller pool on the Disney Magic features Donald Duck’s nephews: Huey, Dewey, and Louie. This pool is really shallow and looks like it is made for babies and toddlers; however, this is not the case. 

Like Goofy’s Pool, this swim area is for those children who are at least three years old AND potty trained. I would like to note that this pool was closed about once per day on our most recent cruise. 

I did not ask a lifeguard, but I am guessing that a child had an “accident” in the pool, which required Disney to drain and sanitize the swimming area. 

Quiet Cove Pool

The Quiet Cove Pool is located toward the front of the ship and is for adults only. Like the name implies, this pool is a quiet place for grown ups to relax in a child free zone. 

The Quiet Cove Pool includes two hot tub areas and a bar. This pool was never crowded, and it always seemed like a really peaceful place to spend time.

The pool hours can vary depending on the activities scheduled. You will be able to see the hours for each swimming pool on the Disney Navigator App . You can also check the Personal Navigator each day to see the available swimming times.

Goofy’s Pool is typically opened from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.  Disney Cruise Line will close the pool for deck parties like the Sail-A-Wave Party. This is because they cover the pool and use it as a dance floor/ stage during the show.

You will see the pool rules posted near each swimming pool area. In short, children must be 3 years old or older to use the pools. In addition, they MUST be potty trained.

You will see lifeguards monitoring each of the swimming pools to make sure the rules are being followed.

If you are cruising with a baby or toddler under the age of 3, the Disney cruise ships provide splash pad areas perfect for little ones. These water play areas really set Disney Cruise Line apart from other cruise lines .

Nephews’ Splash Zone

If you are cruising with a baby or toddler, you will more than likely spend a lot of your pool deck time at Nephews’ Splash Zone.  This splash pad area is the ONLY swimming place that kids under the age of three may play.  

Nephews’ Splash Zone is located at the back of Deck 9 and features Huey, Dewey, and Louie spraying out water. It also has tiny fountains that spray water from the ground. 

If you are planning a Disney cruise with a baby or a toddler, you may be interested in our post on why Disney Cruise Line is the best for toddlers . In that post, I compare the different cruise lines and their swimming areas for toddlers.

The AquaLab is another splash zone on the Disney Magic, but it is for kids who are potty trained AND over the age of three. This play area provides fun water features that spray and pour water. 

The AquaLab overlooks the Huey, Dewey, and Louie Pool, and it is near the Twist ‘n’ Spout water slide. 

Disney Cruise Line features elaborate water slides on ALL of their ships. The Disney Magic provides two slides that are appropriate for both adults and kids, depending on height.

Twist ‘n’ Spout

The Twist ‘n’ Spout slide is the yellow, twisting slide you see in many of the photos of the Disney Magic. The height requirement for this slide is 42” or taller. 

Cruisers can slide one at a time, and a lifeguard is stationed at the bottom to supervise and help if needed. 

The AquaDunk is the other water slide on the Disney Magic, but it comes with a minimum height requirement of 48”. 

This slide starts with a platform on which you stand before it suddenly slides out from under you. You then plunge down the slide super fast until you reach the end. 

The pool deck on the Disney Magic offers numerous dining options for cruisers, and they are all really kid-friendly!

Located in the back of the ship, Cabanas is the popular buffet that is open to guests for breakfast and lunch each day. Cabanas is also available for dinner except on the first ( embarkation day ) and the final day of your cruise. 

We love eating at Cabanas because the buffet provides such diverse options that every family member can find something they like to eat.

Pinocchio’s Pizzaria

Pinocchio’s Pizzaria is open for lunch and dinner and offers pizzas, which are a huge hit with my kids!  

I enjoyed a couple slices of their Margherita pizza for dinner one night, and it was excellent!

Daisy’s De-lites

Daisy’s De-lites is another counter service option on the pool deck. I frequented this dining venue on our last cruise because it opens really early in the morning before many of the other restaurants. 

I strolled my one year old up to the pool deck most mornings at 6:30 to grab fresh fruit and muffins from Daisy’s De-Lites

Duck-In Diner

Duck-In Diner is another counter service option near the pools on the Disney Magic. Here, you will find kid favorites like burgers, hot dogs, and chicken fingers. They also have fries available as a side. 

↓↓ Visit My Etsy Shop ↓↓

Duck-In Diner had a sign on their counter advertising that they provided vegetarian and vegan friendly options as well.

Fro-Zone Treats

Near Duck-In Diner, you will find Fro-Zone Treats. This snack stand serves smoothies made from fresh fruit and vegetables. The smoothies are free of charge, but you can add protein powder and other items for an additional price. 

Eye Scream is a snack counter with soft serve ice cream. Cruisers can grab a cone or a bowl and serve themselves beginning at around 11:30 each day. This is a really popular snack stand as you can imagine. Cruisers were usually standing around the counter and eagerly waiting for it to open, especially on sea days.

Beverage Station

Located near the Aft entrance to the pool deck, you will find the beverage station. Here, you can use one of the available cups or your own container to fill drinks. 

The beverage station offers water, juice, tea, coffee, sodas, and hot chocolate. All of these are included in the price of the cruise too! Notice the sanitizing wipes at the drink station in the photo above. Disney Cruise Line provides these in areas all over the ship.

Pool Deck Plan on the Disney Magic

If you look at the deck plan for Deck 9 of the Disney Magic, you will notice some additional spaces on the pool deck.

Cove Cafe is an adult only area of the ship where you can purchase cocktails and specialty coffee. 

Edge is the kids club area that is for tweens. 

Signals Bar

Signals Bar is the counter service area by the Quiet Cove Adult Pool where you can grab cocktails and refreshments.

Senses Spa and Salon  

Senses Spa and Salon is located on Deck 9 forward. This is also where you can find the fitness center. 

Below, I will include some important tips and tricks you may find useful for the pool deck!

Crowded Pools

The pools on the Disney cruise ships can get crowded. If you visit the pools during non-peak hours, it will help with the crowd levels. We like to use the pools in the morning or on port days.

That being said, we don’t really have an issue with the crowded pools. I find that if you EXPECT them to be super crowded, then you won’t be as shocked when they actually are!

Pool Floats

Pool floats are not permitted in the pools on Disney Cruise Line. However, DCL does provide swimming vests free of charge. (See photo below.)

Pool Towels

Don’t worry about packing pool towels for your cruise. Towels are readily available right on the pool deck. You do not need to sign for a towel; instead, you just grab one from a nearby stand.

Final Review of the Disney Magic Cruise Ship Pool Deck

The pool deck on each of the Disney ships is a really fun place to spend time. The entertainment, dining, and activity options on Deck 9 make it really enjoyable for the whole family! Plus, you get amazing views of the sea!

For more ideas on things to do on the Disney cruise ships, check out our post on the most fun kids activities on DCL .

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Does anyone know if there are steps in the pools. The photos show ladders everywhere but hoping there are steps as well.

I believe the really shallow pools have steps into them, but the deeper pools use ladders. Maybe another reader will be able to chime in with a more certain answer though.

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Disney Magic

Cruise line Disney Cruise Line

• Galveston (Texas)
• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida)
• Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)
• San Juan (Puerto Rico)
• New Orleans (Port NOLA Louisiana)

Disney Magic last position

Disney Magic last location was at North West Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 25.27891 N / -76.04756 W) cruising at speed of 19.7 kn (36 km/h | 23 mph) en route to BSELE. The AIS position was reported 9 hours ago.

Current itinerary of Disney Magic

Disney Magic current cruise is 3 days, round-trip Bahamian Cruise From Fort Lauderdale . The itinerary starts on 30 Aug, 2024 and ends on 02 Sep, 2024 .

Specifications of Disney Magic

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Disney Magic Itineraries

Disney magic review, review of disney magic.

The 1998-built MS Disney Magic cruise ship is Walt Disney 's first (oldest) liner with sistership Disney Wonder (1999).

The vessel (IMO number 9126807) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 308516000) and registered in Nassau .

History - construction and ownership

DCL-Disney Cruise Line is a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company (shipowner). The company was incorporated in 1996 as "Magical Cruise Company Ltd". Walt Disney also owns the Bahamian private island Castaway Cay (exclusive port of call - for Disney ships only) and an exclusive Cruise Terminal at Port Canaveral (Orlando Florida) . Disney cruises are marketed as "family vacations" and feature unique and exclusive activities, such as costumed Disney Characters, adults-only deck areas, dedicated facilities for teens, kids and infants-toddlers, signature (trademarked) shipboard facilities and activities, themed live entertainment.

The 1750-passenger ship Disney Magic provides some of the best sea travel vacation experiences. And just like all Disney businesses, the ship's primary market are families with small children (mostly kids younger than 8) - the major revenue provider for the Walt Disney company. However, on Disney Magic, you'll also find many passengers traveling without kids.

The ever first Disney ship, Magic was launched in 1998 to serve the special preferences of a new generation Disney package vacation fun fans. The Disney Magic ship design resembles the 1920's luxurious ocean liners, but what really makes this vessel worthy of its Disney name are all the Disney characters, special facilities, and unique fun activities on-board, along with the greatest kids programs at sea, the most Magic-al deck parties, and excellent service.

The CLIENTELE consists almost entirely of USA and Canada Disney cruise fun fans. The new Disney approach to children by age-related activities and specially dedicated onboard venues makes all ships mostly appealing for multi-generational travelers.

Disney Magic DRESS CODE - day casual and evening resort casual, meaning for men - jackets (no ties) and pants, and for women - summer dresses (no swimwear-shorts-jeans in the main restaurants at dinner). All Disney Magic 7-day sailings include one formal and one semi-formal night.

Disney Magic TIPS (totaling US $12 PP per day, automatically charged to guests' shipboard accounts), given to $8 waiters (dining room server $4, assistant server $3, head server $1) and $4 to cabin attendants. Additionally, a 15% gratuity is included on all bar drinks and onboard service areas.

Decks and Cabins

Most Disney Magic staterooms (877 total, in 22 grades) are 225-260-ft2 Balconies. The ship has 22 Suites, 362 Balcony, 235 Oceanview and 256 Inside cabins. The largest accommodations are Royal Suites (845 ft2 / 79 m2 plus 185 ft2 / 17 m2 terrace).

The ever-first Disney ship Magic boasts elegant Art Deco decorations of public spaces and a most affordable luxury in all its staterooms, of which even the standard cabins are designed as mini-suites (separate bedroom and living areas).

All Disney Magic cabins are designed with families in mind - some of the most spacious and most elegant at sea, and of course - with "Mickeys" everywhere. Cabins are quiet and offer comfortable privacy, appealing to both families and people traveling without youngsters. Even the standard Disney Magic cabins boast a separate bedroom and a living area (common to mini-suite accommodations of other brands), 2 beds convertible to a queen, the living room including a convertible sofa (an option for 3rd single bed); many cabins also have bunk beds (for a 4th person).

Disney Magic family cruise cabins for families of 5 have a Murphy bed. Plenty of drawers, a closet with sliding doors, a desk-dressing table, a smart HDTV, electronic safe bos, 2 portable "Wave Phones" (with texting capabilities and coverage throughout the ship and on Castaway island).

A unique feature of all Disney cruise cabins are the split-bathrooms ("bath and a half" configurations) - one with a toilet and a sink, the other with tub-shower-sink (the cheapest insides with a single bath 1 sink). Decent bathroom amenities (soap-shampoo-conditioner-lotion), a hairdryer.

All Disney Magic suites are located on Deck 8 and feature concierge service, deluxe design elements, huge Jacuzzis, better quality mattresses and large verandas (among the additional amenities are robes, slippers, and a vanity pack).

The boat has 11 decks , of which 6 are with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Disney Magic dining options include 3 main restaurants with the most fun rotational dining scheme (whatever the restaurant, your table number is the same, as well as companions and servers), a traditional 2-seating (at 5:45 and 8:15 pm, the earlier cater to the youngest kids). The traditional "Lumiere's" restaurant is decorated Art Deco (French menu), the "Animator's Palate" boast special light effects and video LED screens, and the "Carioca's" is a Caribbean-themed dining room with the most fun waiters and decorated in beautiful bright colors (this restaurant is also available for breakfast-lunch buffets).

The Disney Magic ship food experience features ample portions (everything is on-board made), with several choices of salads and fresh vegetables, a great variety of seafood, meats, pasta, and naturally, a separate kids menu is available.

Casual dining onboard is called "Cabanas" (a buffet restaurant, located high up and aft (overlooking the stern, a great outdoor dining option). Deck 9 offers 3 fast-food stations - the "Pete's Boiler Bites", the "Pinocchio's Pizzeria" and the "Daisy's De-Lites".

Specialty dining options are offered at "Palo" (an adults-only fine restaurant (costs extra, located on Deck 10; reservations are required, it's a relatively small venue, so early booking is advisable). Italian (Med) cuisine, including superb fish and seafood dishes, the brunch here offers Champagne and cold buffet with seafood and meats, great salads and desserts, and hot made-to-order selections (eggs-meat-fish).

The room service menu is simple (cold sandwiches, salads, hot dogs, burgers, lasagna, pizza, cookies), the service is fast, and suite guests enjoy hot breakfast and dining room meals options. Free drinks (Coca-Cola products) are also available at meals and at the 24-hour drink pavilion (Deck 9 aft).

Follows the complete list of Disney Magic restaurants and food bars.

• Lumiere's Restaurant (471-seat forward Dining Room; with two open Dinner servings - 5:30 p.m.-6 p.m. and 8 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; on 7+ day cruises features Gala Dessert Buffet)
• Carioca's / Parrot Cay Restaurant (471-seat aft Dining Room with South American and Brazilian specialties for dinner)
• Animator's Palate Restaurant (471- seat aft Dining Room, animator's studio design, features favorite Disney-character dinner shows; serves complimentary drinks; Rotational Dining with two fixed Dinner seatings - at 5:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m.)
• Cabanas (self-service complimentary restaurant with American cuisine, pasta, sushi)
• Pinocchio's Pizzeria (outdoor complimentary restaurant, poolside)
• Pete's Boiler Bites (fast food outdoor eatery; Lunch and Dinner)
• Daisy's De-Lites (outdoor fast-food eatery, poolside)
• Palo (116-seat Italian specialty restaurant; adults-only, reservation-only; aft location; bookings via the internet or on board).

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The Disney Magic ship public rooms are nothing short to amazing. The "Walt Disney" Theater has a capacity of 977 seats and offers live performances and huge Disney productions (like Broadway-style musicals and classy review shows) on a 2-deck-high rotational stage. The "Buena Vista" Theater is smaller (showing Disney movies). Most of the ship's public spaces are on Decks 3-4-5. The most famous are: the Promenade Lounge (family-friendly, great music), Studio Sea (game shows, exhibitions, karaoke), the Atrium (a great place to meet Disney characters for an autograph, the place for the Captain's cocktail party and for Disney pin trading), 3 shops (on Deck 4 are "Mickey's Mates" (Disney memorabilia and postcards) and "Treasure Ketch" (logos, jewelry, watches), and the duty-free "Up Beat" is on Deck 3 (perfumes, liquor). The pool deck's adult section has a coffee house - the Cove Cafe (specialty coffees, bar drinks).

Like all Disney ships, the Magic has no casino (there's bingo with good jackpots). One of the features that make the Magic ship a special place to be is the deck parties, the highlight being "The Pirates in the Caribbean" Party - a great, most attended by all age groups themed Disney ship cruise fun.

Naturally, most of the shipboard entertainment is Disney themed (like the goldies "Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story", "Villains Tonight!" and the "Disney Dreams") with all the feature Disney characters). And there are Disney movies, including first-runs (shown in the ship's two theaters "Buena Vista" and "Walt Disney") and Disney 3D movies.

In lounges and clubs, there are numerous family activities during the day - dance parties, bingo, pirate quests, shuffleboard and video games tournaments, all kinds of contests, pool games, family karaoke, dance lessons, talent shows. Between dinner times, there is a short family-friendly cabaret show, with its adult version after hours.

Most of the adult-themed activities are at night for guests ages 18-25, like "Match Your Mate", "Singles' Mingle" and "College Club Social". The Magic ship's adult-only daytime programs are 3: the "Navigating the Seas" series (lectures and video info about the ship), the "Disney Behind the Scenes" series (about the "know-how" of Disney specials - from food to entertainment) and the "Art of Entertaining" series, all of which are at no additional charge (for wine tastings there's a $12 charge, $15 for martini and margarita tastings).

MS Disney Magic kids cruise programs are the main reason for the Disney Magic line's high loyalty guests ratio. Designed with families in mind, there are several huge areas onboard, designated for kids with activities for every age level. All kids ages 3-10 have access to 2 interconnected club areas - the Oceaneer's "Club" (7-10 yo) and "Lab" (8-12 yo).

Kids clubs occupy an enormous space resembling a pirate ship, with PCs and TV monitors cloaked in treasure chests, and fun activities like cooking classes, games and contests, food-fests and pool parties. "Edge" is the tweens' club (11-13 yo) with PC and PS games, arts and crafts, and a bridge simulator for navigating a ship. The teen-only area (14-17 yo) is called "Vibe" (located in a funnel midship) - a special lounge with huge couches, flat TVs and video games, other hit activities are the dance parties and the karaoke. All kids programs (age 3+) are complimentary.

"It's A Small World" ship nursery (babies 3 months to 3 years of age) is at an additional cost of $6 per hour ($5 for the 2nd child). An online service allows guests to order from over 1,000 "Babies Travel Lite" products in advance of their sailing (delivered to their cabin). All services are also available on Castaway Cay. All Disney children counselors are college educated, well experienced and attentive.

Follows the complete list of Disney Magic lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• Walt Disney Magic Theatre (977-seat, 3-decks high; offers live shows, aerial acrobatics performances, grand-style productions, 3D movies; with two evening shows - at 6:15 pm and 8:30 pm)
• Magic's Atrium (3-deck high central ship area, featuring custom-made carpet, new furnishings, art deco chandelier, grand piano, and large portholes, with "Helmsman Mickey" bronze statue)
• After Hours/Beat Street (3 clubs' entertainment district, adults only after 9 p.m.; Fathom, Keys and O'Gill's Pub)
• Fathom Lounge Disco & Nightclub
• Keys (adults-only piano bar, features handcrafted cocktails)
• O'Gill's Pub (sports bar, with large TVs and live music)
• Mickey's Mates; Mickey's Mainsail (Disney brand logo shops for postcards, souvenirs, DVDs, toys, clothes, games)
• Sea Treasures (duty-free crystal, brand jewelry, watches, precious stones, Disney merchandise, underwear, sport, and swimming apparel); Quacks (Disney logo swimwear, T-shirts, towels)
• Up Beat (duty-free brand jewelry, perfumes, liquor, and tobaccos); Treasure Ketch (duty-free shop); Whitecaps (Disney logo goods)
• Promenade Lounge (104-seat family venue with full bar service, specialty coffees, and drinks; with the Internet Cafe)
• Studio Sea (game shows, exhibitions, karaoke)
• Buena Vista Theatre (268-seat 4D cinema, features 3D movies, Dolby Surround 7.1, and Dolby 3D movie technology)
• Preludes Bar (quick wait-service snacks and beverages bar)
• Shutters PhotoShop (photo packages, accessories, photographic services); Vista Gallery
• D Lounge Bar & Nightclub
• Vibe Disco & Club Lounge (teens only)
• It's A Small World Nursery (for 3 months to 3 yo infants and toddlers; reservations required)
• Magic's Oceaneer Club (kids 3-12 yo; with four play areas with themes from Disney films); Magic's Oceaneer Lab (play area for kids 3-12 yo)
• Senses Spa & Fitness Complex (with Treatment Salon, Roman Bath, Sauna, Relaxation Room; Fitness Centre /health and wellbeing seminars; Beauty Salon)
• Senses Spa Villas (private suites with own hot tub, private verandah, Roman bed with canopy, open-air shower)
• Quiet Cove Pool (adults only pool, served by Cove Bar; with 2 Whirlpools)
• Cove Cafe (adult-only, with large LED TV screen; Wi-Fi spot)
• Signals Bar (adults-only bar for snacks and beverages, poolside)
• Eye Scream Treats Bar (complimentary ice cream, poolside)
• Frozone Treats (iced fruit smoothies bar, poolside)
• Eye Scream Treats (Monsters Inc themed ice cream parlor)
• Goofy's Family Pool; Mickey's Pool; Nephews' Splash Zone; AquaDunk Water Slide; AquaLab (kids interactive water play area)
• Quarter Masters (video games arcade)
• Edge Lounge (11-14 yo teens-only club area, with a giant video wall, interactive games, Internet)
• 24x14ft Outdoor LED movie screen
• Wide World of Sports Court (basketball, volleyball, soccer)
• Radio Studio (live radio programs for Disney Magic itinerary-related news and onboard events)
• Outlook Bar (retreat area with a piano and full bar; hosts weddings receptions).

Following drydock 2023 refurbishment, Disney Magic now has a new venue - Soul Cat Lounge, themed after Disney's computer-animated film "Soul" (2020).

The Soul Cat Lounge (near Rapunzel's Royal Table restaurant/aft on deck 3) is designed to resemble Half Note Lounge from the movie (Joe Gardner's favorite music spot). The venue is music-themed, with a classic NYC jazz club ambiance and an interior featuring brick walls, wooden accents, comfortable leather seating (surrounding a stage for live music performances in the evenings), Pixar-themed artworks (record labels, concert posters, portraits of Dorothea Williams and her bandmates), music-themed design elements (record players, instruments, Joe Gardner's hat). Table-side are served local brews, signature cocktails (made with New York spirits), a selection of mocktails, brand coffees, sodas, zeppoles (Italian fried doughnuts).

The new production show "An Encanto Celebration" allows guests to engage in music, crafts, and storytelling alongside La Familia Madrigal (family from the Encanto movie). The experience includes meeting and taking photos with Mirabel and Bruno, a sing-along of Encanto songs, creating movie-inspired butterflies and flower crafts. During the show, guests can also enjoy a selection of Colombian beers, cocktails, sodas, film-inspired mocktails.

Itineraries

Disney Magic itinerary program is based on Caribbean and Bahamas roundtrips departing from PortMiami Florida USA , all visiting the DCL's private Bahamian island Castaway Cay .

In September 2020, the liner had planned a European (UK and Ireland) season with 7-day roundtrips from homeport Dover visiting Plymouth , Cork , Liverpool , Greenock , Dublin .

Following the Coronavirus crisis, for summer 2021 (June-September), the ship was scheduled to operate cruises-to-nowhere (mostly 2-3-night plus limited 4-night roundtrips) from homeports London-Tilbury , Liverpool , Newcastle , and Southampton . These unique for DCL itineraries (called "Sea Staycations") were open for booking by UK residents-only and without any call ports.

In fall 2022 the ship operated 7-day NYC to Bermuda (Kings Wharf) itineraries. Since November 2022, Disney Magic is homeported in Galveston Texas for short-breaks (4-night and 5-night) to Mexico's Cozumel and Progreso .

On February 18, 2023, started Disney Magic's homeporting in NOLA/New Orleans Louisiana . The program (run though April 10th) was based on 4-5-6-day roundtrip Western Caribbean itineraries visiting Cozumel (4-day), Cozumel plus Costa Maya (5-day) and Cozumel plus Grand Cayman/George Town Harbour (6-day).

Photos of Disney Magic

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Other Disney Cruise Line cruise ships

• Disney Adventure
• Disney Destiny
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Treasure
• Disney Wish
• Disney Wonder

Disney Magic Wiki

The Walt Disney ship Magic is company's first-ever liner, followed by sistership Disney Wonder . Each vessel is 40% smaller in size compared to the 2 newer Disney ships Dream and Fantasy . The inaugural cruise/Maiden Voyage started on July 30, 1998. Ship's Godmother was Patricia Disney (1935-2012) - wife of Roy Edward Disney (1930-2009) who was a senior executive (Vice Chairman and Chairman) for The Walt Disney Company in the period 1954-2009.

The vessel (Fincantieri Marghera yard/hull number 5989) is powered by Wartsila-Sulzer marine diesel engines (model 16ZAV40S) with total power output 58,25 MW. The propulsion system is diesel-electric.

Fun fact is that MS Disney Magic held the record for paying the highest-ever regular Panama Canal passing toll (exactly USD 331,200). However, the record was beaten later by the Princess Cruises ship Coral Princess (USD 400,000).

Outside, the vessel looks like an ocean liner from the early-20th century. Interior decorations are influenced by both Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. On Magic debuted many of Disney's Marvel superheroes - a really thrilling experience for the youngest passengers.

Disney Magic refurbishments review

Disney Magic was last drydock-refurbished in 2023 (April 15 thru May 4) at Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport .

The 3-week refurbishment included general maintenance works and machinery overhauls, as well as renovation of passenger cabins and public spaces. During the drydock, the Concierge Lounge was redesigned and all concierge staterooms (plus the Royal Suites) were completely refurbished with new fixtures, furniture, artworks.

A new music-themed venue (decorated in themes from Disney's computer-animated film "Soul"/2020) was created - Soul Cat Lounge (aft on deck 3). Also were introduced new movie-themed entertainment programs for families as well as the "An Encanto Celebration" production show (themed on Disney's animation film "Encanto"/2021).

During drydock 2023 was also installed shore power connectivity  allowing the ship to plug in and use the port city's power grid electricity for all onboard services while berthed.

Drydock 2019

During the refurbishment in 2019 were added Rapunzel's Royal Table (themed restaurant/aft on deck 3), the teen club was transformed, Cove Cafe (adults-only venue) was redesigned and Club Disney Junior (lounge part of Disney's Oceaneer Club) was added.

Also was redesigned the Rainforest Room in the adults-only Senses Spa (steam and hydrotherapy).

Drydock 2015

The refurbishment in 2015 (September 5-18, in Cadiz) was for extensive renovations (restaurants, bars, spa, atrium, staterooms, kids area), Dream-class concepts (waterslide starting near the funnel's top and swinging out over the side of the ship), lighting/audio upgrades.

The project also included general maintenance works and propulsion system upgrade.

Drydock 2013

The list of deck plan changes after the ship's 6-week long drydock 2013 refurbishment in Cadiz Spain (September 7 through October 10, at Navantia's Puerto Real Shipyard) included:

• AquaDunk (new waterslide), AquaLab (interactive water play area with the Twist n’ Spout waterslide)
• Animator’s Palette restaurant (ex-Studio C) with new flat TVs, lights, walls, speakers
• new Carioca’s (Brazilian-themed restaurant replacing Parrot Cay)
• new Cabanas (replacing Topsider Buffet, hugely enlarged)
• Palo (renovations- new fixtures, glass artwork, stone floor)
• Mickey’s Mainsail (new shop)
• (Deck 3) After Hours district now with the Fathoms (disco club), Keys (piano bar, replacing Cadillac Bar) and O’Gills (Irish pub)
• expanded Senses Spa (by 725 ft2), now with Barbershop, Chill Spa and Smile Spa
• shop upgrades (Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Anna & Elsa’s Boutique)
• "It's a Small World Nursery", "Nephews"
• renovated and redesigned passenger rooms (elevated beds for more storage space)
• Lobby Atrium changes (2nd staircase removed, the Chihuly chandelier replaced with an Art Deco one)

Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab changes - now with Marvel's Avengers Academy (the first on a Disney ship), Andy's Room (now has the Slinky Dog slide, Mr. Potato Head and Hamm the piggy bank), also changed are the interiors of the rooms Pixie Hollow, and the Mickey Mouse Club.

The Edge (teen club) was relocated (from deck 2 to deck 9), its area was expanded and the amenities there were enhanced (new gaming stations, dance floor).

Also were conducted general maintenance of all mechanical systems, hull and interior painting, piping, propulsion system upgrade (for reducing fuel consumption). 400+ contract workers were employed for all the refurb jobs.

Service history/itineraries review (1998-2016)

Follows the ship's concise service history (former itineraries):

• [1998-2005] 7-day Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando) Florida
• [2005-2012] relocated to San Diego CA
• [2012-2013] relocated to NYC New York and sailing from there to the Bahamas, Canada/New England
• [2013 June] relocated to Europe ( Barcelona ) for the summer season, also receiving a 6-week extensive refurbishment. After the 2013 Transatlantic crossing started departures out of Miami FL , later was repositioned back to Orlando.

In 2016, Disney deployed the Magic ship in Europe. For the first time ever, Disney offered UK cruise departures (from Dover England) to ports in Baltic Sea (incl Norwegian Fjords), Iceland, UK (British Isles). Throughout 2016 summer, the ship operated in the Western Mediterranean (leaving from Barcelona ). After that followed a 12-day Transatlantic repositioning to NYC for round-trip cruises to Canada (5-6-day to New England - Saint John NB and Halifax NS) and 8-9-day to Florida-Bahamas (visiting Port Canaveral, Nassau, and the private island Castaway Cay).

Help Center

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Photos – Frequently Asked Questions

How do I download all of my purchased cruise photos at once?

The onboard Disney Cruise Line Photos website does not offer a “Download All” experience, but you can download single photos any time throughout your cruise. You can also access your vacation photos after your cruise by signing in to Disney Cruise Line Photos , selecting at least one photo, and then selecting “Download All” to retrieve all your purchased photos at once. 

Keep in mind, each photo is available to download up to 45 days from the day of capture. After that time, the image will no longer be available for download. Also, additional photo purchases are not available after the cruise. All purchases must be finalized before debarkation.

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4-Night Disney Cruise: A Guide for 2025 and 2026

Are you planning a Disney cruise in 2025 or 2026? A 4-night Disney cruise offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for families, couples, and Disney enthusiasts. In this guide, we cover everything from itineraries and ships to insider tips for making the most of your 4-night, 5-day Disney sea voyage.

Prefer to Speak With Someone? Get Free Help From Our Favorite Disney Travel Agent!

Is a 4-Night (5-Day) Disney Cruise Right for You?

Before diving into the details, let’s consider whether a 4-night Disney cruise is the best choice for your vacation needs.

Advantages of 4-Night Disney Cruises

• Perfect Duration for First-Time Cruisers : If you’re new to Disney cruises , a 4-night voyage offers an excellent introduction without overwhelming you.
• Ideal for Busy Schedules : These cruises fit well into a long weekend or a short vacation period.
• More Affordable : Generally, 4-night cruises are less expensive than longer itineraries, making them a more budget-friendly Disney cruise option .
• Enough Time to Experience Disney Magic : Four nights (and five days) give you ample opportunity to enjoy onboard activities, entertainment, and dining. They offer a happy medium between short Disney cruises and the longest Disney cruise options .

Image © Disney

Potential Drawbacks

• Limited Port Visits : Most 4-night cruises only visit one or two ports.
• Less Time to Relax : The shorter duration means a more packed schedule if you want to experience everything.
• Might Leave You Wanting More : Some guests find that four nights (and five days) isn’t quite enough time to fully unwind and enjoy all the ship has to offer. Remember, you only have three full days onboard; that’s because Day 1 doesn’t start until midday and Day 5 is over by 8AM.

Who Are 4-Night Disney Cruises Best For?

• Families with school-aged children looking for a quick getaway
• Adults and couples seeking a romantic short break with a touch of Disney magic
• Disney fans wanting to experience the cruise line without a long commitment
• Busy professionals who can’t take extended time off work
• Those testing the waters of cruising before booking a longer voyage

4-Night Disney Cruise Itineraries

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of 4-night itineraries, primarily sailing from U.S. ports. Let’s explore the most popular routes and destinations.

Bahamian Cruises

Nassau | Image © Disney

Bahamian cruises are among the most popular 4-night options. These typically include:

Port Canaveral to the Bahamas:

• Day 1: Departure from Port Canaveral, Florida (afternoon)
• Day 2: Nassau, Bahamas
• Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay ( Disney’s private island )
• Day 4: Day at sea
• Day 5: Return to Port Canaveral (early morning)

Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas:

• Day 1: Departure from Fort Lauderdale, Florida (afternoon)
• Day 2: Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
• Day 3: Disney Castaway Cay
• Day 5: Return to Fort Lauderdale (early morning)

Starting in 2024, Disney Cruise Line introduced itineraries featuring their new private island destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point in Eleuthera, Bahamas. Some 4-night cruises visit both exclusive Disney island paradises, Lookout Cay and Castaway Cay, during one voyage. For more information about these tropical destinations, you can compare Lookout Cay and Castaway Cay and check out our Castaway Cay Tips !

Western Caribbean Cruises

Cozumel | Image © Disney

Some 4-night itineraries explore the Western Caribbean, often including:

• Day 1: Departure from Galveston, Texas (afternoon)
• Day 2: Day at sea
• Day 3: Cozumel, Mexico
• Day 5: Return to Galveston (early morning)

Baja Cruises

Ensenada | Image © Disney

From the West Coast, Disney offers 4-night Baja cruises that may include:

• Day 1: Departure from San Diego, California (afternoon)
• Day 3: Cabo San Lucas or Ensenada, Mexico
• Day 5: Return to San Diego (early morning)

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Disney Cruise Ships Offering 4-Night Itineraries

Disney Wish at Port Canaveral | Image © Disney

As of 2025, Disney Cruise Line has a fleet of seven ships, all of which offer 4-night cruises at various times throughout the year. Let’s take a closer look at each ship:

Disney Wish

The Disney Wish , launched in 2022, is one of the newest additions to the fleet. It primarily sails 3- and 4-night Bahamian cruises from Port Canaveral.

Disney Fantasy

While Disney Fantasy typically sails longer itineraries, it occasionally offers 4-night cruises, especially during repositioning periods.

Disney Dream

The Disney Dream regularly sails 4-night Bahamian cruises from various Florida ports.

Disney Magic

As one of the smaller ships in the fleet, the Disney Magic offers 4-night cruises from various ports, including Galveston and Miami.

Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder , a sister ship to the Magic, sails 4-night Baja cruises from San Diego and occasionally offers 4-night Bahamian cruises.

Disney Treasure

Set to launch in December 2024 , the Disney Treasure is expected to offer 4-night Bahamian cruises similar to its sister ship, the Disney Wish.

Disney Destiny

Scheduled for a November 2025 launch, the Destiny will offer 4-night Bahamian or Caribbean Cruises as part of its inaugural season.

Disney Adventure

The Disney Adventure, launching in 2025, will be based in Singapore. While specific itineraries haven’t been announced, it’s expected to offer 4-night cruises in Southeast Asia.

Specific Dates for 4-Night Disney Cruises in 2025 and 2026

Here are some sample dates for 4-night Disney cruises in 2025 and 2026. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list , and itineraries are subject to change.

• January 6, 20: Disney Wish from Port Canaveral
• February 3, 17: Disney Dream from Miami
• March 3, 17, 31: Disney Wonder from San Diego
• April 14, 28: Disney Magic from Galveston
• May 12, 26: Disney Wish from Port Canaveral
• June 9, 23: Disney Dream from Miami
• July 7, 21: Disney Wonder from Vancouver
• August 4, 18: Disney Magic from Southampton
• September 1, 15, 29: Disney Wish from Port Canaveral
• October 13, 27: Disney Dream from Miami
• November 10, 24: Disney Wonder from San Diego
• December 8, 22: Disney Magic from Galveston
• January 5, 19: Disney Wish from Port Canaveral
• February 2, 16: Disney Dream from Miami
• March 2, 16, 30: Disney Wonder from San Diego
• April 13, 27: Disney Magic from Galveston
• May 11, 25: Disney Wish from Port Canaveral

Just a quick reminder that the dates for the latter part of 2026 have not been released yet. For the latest information and a complete list of dates, ships, and itineraries, please refer to our 2025 Disney Cruises and 2026 Disney Cruises articles or consult with a specialized Disney travel agency such as The Vacationeer . Keep an eye out for updates!

Tips for Making the Most of Your 4-Night Disney Cruise

• Book Early : Popular sailings and preferred staterooms fill up quickly. Booking early ensures you get your top choices.
• Arrive a Day Early : Consider arriving at your departure port a day in advance to avoid travel stress and potential delays.
• Plan Your Activities : With only four nights, it’s crucial to plan your must-do activities in advance. Use the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to pre-book experiences.
• Pack Efficiently : With a shorter cruise, you can pack light. Don’t forget to pack Disney cruise essentials like sunscreen and any themed attire for special nights.
• Budget for Extras : While many activities are included, budget for extras like specialty dining, spa treatments, and shore excursions.
• Participate in Sail-Away Celebration : Don’t miss the sail-away party on your first day – it sets the tone for a magical cruise!
• Try Rotational Dining : Experience all main dining rooms during your cruise to get the full Disney dining experience.
• Attend Shows : Disney’s Broadway-style shows are a highlight. Try to see them all during your cruise.
• Explore the Ship : Take time to explore all areas of the ship, including adults-only spaces if traveling without children.
• Use Sea Days Wisely : On your day at sea, take advantage of all the onboard activities and amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in a 4-night disney cruise.

Your Disney cruise fare includes accommodations, meals in main dining rooms, most onboard entertainment, use of pools and recreational facilities, and kids’ clubs. Additional costs may include specialty dining (like Palo and Remy ), alcoholic beverages , spa treatments , and shore excursions.

How does a 4-night Disney cruise compare to other cruise lines?

While typically more expensive , Disney cruises often offer superior entertainment, dining experiences, and family-friendly amenities compared to competitors like Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, or Carnival. The Disney brand and attention to detail set these cruises apart. To compare, you may want to research Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean Cruise , Disney Cruise vs. Carnival Cruise , or Disney Cruises vs. Norwegian Cruise to see how they stack up.

What’s the best time to book a 4-night Disney cruise?

For the best deals, consider booking during less popular months like January, February, or September. However, availability may be limited, so booking early is recommended. Disney occasionally offers special promotions, so keep an eye out for those.

Are 4-night Disney cruises good for kids?

Absolutely! Disney Cruise Line is renowned for its exceptional kids’ programs and family-friendly atmosphere. From character meet-and-greets to themed kids’ clubs and family-friendly entertainment, children of all ages will find plenty to enjoy. See our Best Disney Cruise Ship for Children and Top Cruise Lines for Kids articles.

Can adults enjoy a 4-night Disney cruise without children?

Yes! Disney cruises offer plenty of adult-exclusive areas and activities, including adults-only pools, bars, and lounges. The shorter 4-night itineraries can be perfect for a quick adult getaway. Disney also offers 3-night Disney Cruises for shorter getaways and 7-night Disney Cruises for those seeking a longer voyage.

What’s the difference between Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay?

Castaway Cay is Disney’s original private island in the Bahamas, while Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is a newer destination on the island of Eleuthera. Both offer beautiful beaches and Disney-exclusive experiences, but Lookout Cay has a stronger focus on Bahamian culture and sustainable design.

Ready to Set Sail on Your 4-Night Disney Cruise?

Planning and booking a Disney cruise can be overwhelming. With so many options to consider – from choosing the right ship and itinerary to selecting the best stateroom and dining times – it’s easy to feel lost at sea. That’s where The Vacationeer can help.

The Vacationeer is a Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, which means they have the expertise and experience to ensure your 4-night Disney cruise is nothing short of magical. Their services include:

• Expert Itinerary Planning : They’ll help you choose the perfect 4-night cruise based on your preferences and budget.
• Best Deal Hunting : The Vacationeer will find the most competitive rates and applicable promotions, including up to $1,000 in onboard credit for your Disney cruise !
• Stateroom Selection : Get personalized recommendations on the best staterooms for your needs and budget .
• Dining Reservations : Assistance with securing your preferred dining times and specialty restaurant reservations .
• Shore Excursion Advice : Guidance on choosing the best port adventures to make the most of your limited time in each destination.
• Onboard Activity Planning : Help with selecting onboard activities and entertainment.
• Continuous Support : From booking to disembarkation, The Vacationeer is there to answer questions and address concerns.
• Free Planning Help : The Vacationeer’s services come at no additional cost to you !

Don’t let the complexities of cruise planning keep you from experiencing the magic of a Disney voyage. Let The Vacationeer handle the details while you look forward to your 4-night Disney adventure at sea! Contact The Vacationeer now for a free, no-obligation quote !

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Disney Cruise Line Launches Magic Shots Photo Experience

Disney Cruise Line is adding Magic Shots, a photo experience where onboard photographers capture your family’s vacation memories in unique compositions to allow for the addition of your favorite Disney Characters in their sailor attire!

Featured characters include Tinker Bell, Captain Mickey, Captain Minnie, Sailor Pluto, Chip & Dale, Sailor Goofy, Cruise Director Daisy, Sailor Donald, and you can even make your Castaway Cay pictures more magical with Magic Shots of Sebastian, Hei Hei and Flounder. Guests both on board and on land can even get a sprinkle of pixie dust in the form of Mickey clouds added to your vacation photos.

According the the announcement on the Disney Parks Blog , Disney Cruise Line photographers will be shooting Magic Shots at various locations throughout the ship and on Castaway Cay during Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries. There are no scheduled times or specific locations for Magic Shots, just ask the photographers about adding in the feature during each encounter throughout your cruise. 

As with all cruise photos, these can be purchased digitally or printed at Shutters on board each ship. Magic Shots are also included in Disney Cruise LIne’s unlimited digital photo package, which can be booked in advance for a 15% discount. Visit the photo section of disneycruise.com for more details.

As part of Disney Cruise Line’s return to passenger service, guests may notice a slight change with the onboard photographers… The onboard photographers are now actual Disney Cruise Line Cast Members.

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10 Replies to “Disney Cruise Line Launches Magic Shots Photo Experience”

I had gotten a heads up a while ago that DCL was discontinuing service with the old company and going with their own crew (our crew friend who was the Shutters Manager on one of the ships was even promoted and is now an officer in the same position), so I think this will be a huge improvement. I love these shots and I am now leaning towards purchasing the package.

I find these photos ridiculous.

I am glad that the photographers are now DCL crew members. There were a few photographers whom we met over the years who were friendly, but most did not have a friendly attitude. Some were downright rude! Usually, it was the DCL crew member who was assisting who was the friendly one. I believe this will be a change for the better.

I’m glad I’m not the only one…

I always found the Shutters team to be more about the sales than the photos. Looked at some and they’d cropped off Mickey’s head!! Never bought any as took decent camera and the CMs were better button clickers. On the UK staycations they did seem happier and more relaxed. As soon as they saw my rig, they were very chatty.

i hope they still offer the photo book, it was always the best value

My child says they are a multi-billion dollar company and that this is sheer laziness and a cheap photoshop process.

My spouse and I LOVE any and all pictures we can take. We are just so happy that there will be photographers and opportunities. I’m glad they copied this experience form the parks.

I don’t pay Premium vacation for a virtual experience. None of those shots can beat a photo with a real character

I definitely don’t think this replaces character interactions. I’m hoping those will be added back over time. However it beats the same white background pics I have a ton of.

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26 Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock when setting sail with Mickey

Disney Cruise Line might be a comparatively small cruise line with just five ships, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in popularity and enthusiastic fans. It also has some unique approaches to cruising that may surprise you — whether you're a first-time cruiser or an experienced cruiser on a different line.

After sailing on six Disney Cruise Line voyages across four of its ships in the last few years, I've picked up a few hacks and money-saving techniques I'm happy to pass on to you. No matter if this is your first time at sea or your 99th, you can benefit from this list of 26 Disney cruise tips, tricks and secrets.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

You can find discounts on Disney Cruises

Disney cruises are generally more expensive than other family-friendly competitors such as Royal Caribbean , but there are still ways to save money on a Disney cruise . Here are some different discounts you can find for Disney Cruise Line.

When booking a Disney cruise, your best move is to book the cruise as soon as it becomes available. You'll have the best selection of cabins and generally the best prices. Sometimes, you can find discounts closer to the sailing if certain room types aren't selling as hoped.

Sail one-way

A few times a year, Disney ships based in seasonal homeports need to head toward their next cruising region. When that happens, the ships sail one-way (aka repositioning) cruises , starting in one port and ending in a different one. You can often book these one-off sailings for less money than the normal round-trip cruises that start and end in the same spot.

For example, Disney Dream will sail a three-night cruise to move it from San Juan to Ft. Lauderdale in November. You can book a cabin with a balcony for $1,580 for two people, which is a solid price on Disney Dream. The $3,326 price tag for a concierge-level cabin is very good; those cabins usually start at close to $800 to $1,000 higher on many other three-night sailings.

Remember to factor in the cost of two one-way flights when you're calculating the savings bonus of taking a one-way cruise.

Related: Ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Let Disney pick your cabin

If you're not picky about which cabin you get, an easy way to save a substantial amount of cash on your Disney cruise is to let Disney pick your cabin for you. You select a room type (such as an inside room or one with a balcony) and then let Disney assign you to a specific cabin location closer to sailing. For your flexibility, this type of guaranteed fare comes at a discount.

In the example below, you'll see the cheapest inside cabin where you pick a specific room on the ship is $2,072, while the price starts at $1,488 if you let Disney choose which inside room you get. This type of fare comes with additional restrictions, so read the fine print carefully. I've done this multiple times and have always been happy with the room location I've received.

Upgrade your room at the port for less

Depending on the ship's occupancy, it can be cheaper to upgrade your cabin at the port right before you board than in advance. There's no guarantee a better room will be available, but it can't hurt to ask when you are checking in inside the port just before boarding if nicer rooms are available.

If higher room categories have gone unsold, the check-in staff can tell you the price to upgrade to a nicer room; they can reference a spreadsheet that outlines the upgrade rates based on your current cabin and fare. In my experience, you can save up to half the cost compared to upgrading your room in advance.

Pay with points or discounted Disney gift cards

You can pay with discounted Disney gift cards to save a little money. There are many ways to do this, but stacking credit card bonus categories with discounted gift cards that can be available at places like Sam's Club or even Target can knock around 5% off the total price without too much effort.

You can also use some types of credit card points and miles to pay for a Disney cruise. For example, you can use Capital One miles from cards such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , (see rates and fees) to cover all or part of any charge that's considered a travel expense.

The Disney Visa Card also offers some onboard savings perks and you can enjoy 0% APR for six months on your Disney vacation packages from the date of purchase, after that a variable APR of 19.24%-28.24%.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

2 rooms are cheaper than a suite

If your family is considering getting a suite to spread out and have more space, but are finding the prices for Disney Cruise Line suites to be prohibitively high, consider connecting staterooms instead. A family of four can expect to spend about 50% more on connecting cabins instead of all staying in one room, which is likely a lot less than buying up to a suite which can be several times the cost of a regular room.

Get free Mickey ice cream bars (and more) from room service

Unless you're staying in a concierge-level stateroom (more on that soon), room service on a Disney cruise is relatively basic. However, it's available at no extra charge, so use it as much or as little as you like.

I'm a fan of ordering room service for a quick breakfast (or that first hit of coffee) or for a fun anytime treat of Mickey ice cream bars. I often order Uncrustables from room service the night before port days to toss in my bag for the family to eat while ashore. My girls learned how to politely call to order these by the second or third day of the cruise.

It's a common courtesy to add a few dollars for a tip to the slip that you'll sign when the order is delivered.

Order as much dinner as you want

On Disney Cruise Line, you'll be assigned a dinner rotation through the three included restaurants on the ship. Your serving team will rotate with you, which is pretty fun as they get to know you and your preferences.

Since this food is all included, don't be shy. If you can't decide between the shrimp or salmon entree, try both. Order a couple of appetizers or be daring and try a dish you've never tasted before.

When it comes time for dessert, create your own sampler-platter for the table and taste them rather than limiting yourself to one selection.

You aren't locked into your assigned dining plans

If, for some reason, your assigned order of restaurants or tablemates (if you have any) aren't working out, don't be shy about asking guest services to make alterations. They will connect you with the appropriate people within the dining team to make necessary adjustments.

New movie releases are shown in the theaters

While a movie theater may sound like a strange place to spend a few hours at sea, I recommend making time to go see a new Disney movie while on your next Disney Cruise. The ships show first-run movies, so instead of heading to your local theater to see the next Marvel, Pixar or other Disney film released close to your cruise date, save some money and enjoy the movie at sea for no extra charge.

In fact, if you are at sea when a new Disney movie premieres on land, you'll get to see it the same night on the ship, too.

It's cash-free on the ship — except for this

You don't need much cash while on a Disney cruise. Your "Key to the World" room key serves as your form of payment and identification on the ship. I highly recommend bringing a lanyard to keep track of this important card if it's your first Disney voyage. Return cruisers are given a lanyard in their cabin.

However, if you want to add an extra tip to your service team at the end of the cruise beyond the standard amount that's charged to your folio, it's nice to do that with cash. If you are staying in a concierge-level room, you may want to pack some extra cash for the concierge lounge hosts and the evening bartenders, too.

Your kids can (maybe) get into an older club

Disney Cruise Line divides kids into four age groups — the nursery (up to age 3), the primary kids club (3–12), a tween club (11–14) and a teen club (14–17). The clubs, other than the nursery, are complimentary, so the magic age for a Disney cruise begins once your child is at least 3 years old and potty-trained, so they can enjoy time in the kids clubs while you enjoy … whatever you want.

Once your kid is ready to age up to the next club, they can actually do that a little early with your permission. For example, my oldest was able to level up to the tween club at 10 years old and the teen club at 13 years old with a signed slip from me, so use (or hide) that information as it suits you best. I will say that once your kid levels up in those clubs, they probably won't go back much to the previous club.

Take note that the tween and teen clubs allow kids to come and go at will. If you need your child to be monitored, then they will need to stay in the main kids club, which is open through age 12.

Hit the pools early or late to avoid crowds

If you don't want to swim in a crowded pool or wait in a long line for a slide around the AquaDuck or AquaMouse, you'll need to employ some strategy. I recommend heading to the waterslide the second you board the ship if it is warm enough in your port, as that is as empty as it's going to get.

If you miss that window, mornings are also pretty empty, as are late afternoons as everyone starts to get ready for the evening. Avoid mid-day on sea days at all costs unless you like swimming with dozens of your new best friends.

You'll want to decorate your door

The cabin doors on a Disney cruise are almost all metal, so decorative magnets will stick to the doors nicely. Pack themed magnets to decorate your door. Not only is it fun to participate in this shipwide decoration, but the personalized door serves to help kids (or tired adults) find their cabin should they forget the room number.

You can keep things simple or order personalized magnets on a site like Etsy in advance of your sailing. You may see some doors that go all out and even have pouches with goodies in them. Those hanging pouches are known as fish extenders (as they hang off of a fish built into the ship). They often signify that the cabin is participating in a gift exchange with others on the cruise that they arranged beforehand on Facebook.

Your sailing has a Facebook group and it's worth joining

Speaking of Facebook, the odds are excellent that your individual sailing has a Facebook group with several hundred people in it. If you wish to participate in gift exchanges, get to know your shipmates pre-cruise or tap into a hive mind for advice on picking excursions and packing, it's a big asset to belong to a group specific to your sailing.

Go to Facebook and search for your sailing (e.g. Disney Wonder Alaska June 12 - 19). You'll likely find a "private" group that's not officially affiliated with the cruise line. Join the group to be kept in the loop and to drum up excitement for your trip before you set sail.

Soda is free if you know where to look

If you order a can of Coke in the dining room or from room service, it's going to cost you a few dollars, but you can get as much free soda as you want from the fountain. These are usually located on the pool deck and in the buffet area. Bring a refillable bottle so you can easily take your soda with you around the ship.

Check the app for happy hours

Alcohol isn't free on board, but you can find discounted drinks at happy hour. On my most recent Disney cruise, select drinks were 50% off from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the ship's pub. Check your Navigator app during your sailing to look for happy hours on your Disney cruise.

The best merchandise sells out

If you see a cool hat, sweatshirt or shirt you adore, buy it as soon as you spot it. The onboard gift shops are only open while the ship is at sea, and the popular items sell out (and generally don't get restocked while you're on board).

A Disney cruise is not just for families

There's no doubt that families make up a large portion of the Disney Cruise Line passenger base, but a Disney cruise is not just for kids . The ships cater to childless couples and friend groups with special spaces reserved just for grownups.

Each ship has an adults-only nightlife area and/or multiple bars and lounges to visit in the evening. An adults-only sun deck includes a pool and space to sunbathe. Each ship also has one or two adults-only restaurants you can retreat to at dinnertime if you want to ensure a high-end and kid-free meal. (You'll have to pay extra for these meals, however.)

Disney offers legitimately good liquor and tastings

On top of the cocktails and drinks you may expect, Disney ships offer some very high-end liquors on board. I shared a photo of the below beverage cart on Instagram while on a recent cruise and got dozens of messages from people shocked Disney would have Pappy's bourbon. That specific 23-year-old bottle goes for several hundred dollars per drink, and it's on board Disney cruise ships.

If you're looking for something more affordable, sign up for one of the various beverage-tasting classes on offer. Most of the tastings are $40 - $50, and you'll get to sample a few drinks, as well as learn more about wine, tequila, bourbon and other beverages.

You don't need to pay for motion sickness pills

If you find the motion of the ocean to be a bit more than you bargained for, head to guest services, and they will give you — and your kids — motion sickness pills free of charge.

Pro tip: Don't wait until you are feeling terrible to start battling any potential motion sickness . At the first signs of queasiness, seek out a remedy. Green apples and ginger candy are alternatives for travelers who prefer not to take medicine.

The concierge lounge is extra magical

If you want your own personal Fairy Godmother who all but ensures you get the bookings you want, the best meal times, coveted reservations at the adults-only restaurants and cabana access at Castaway Cay, then book yourself into a concierge-level cabin or suite.

You'll get all that, plus you can board the ship first and skip the lines when disembarking. Concierge guests get exclusive access to a lounge with included evening drinks and a private sun deck (with a hot tub on Disney Wish ). You can order meals from the onboard restaurants to your room, and hang out with a Disney character in the lounge one evening of the cruise.

Not to mention, you'll be staying in some of the nicest and largest accommodations on the ship.

Concierge-level rooms do not come cheap, but they're the way to go if you want cream-of-the-crop service on a Disney cruise. I'd venture that the added perks and extra booking window for specialty restaurants and Castaway Cay are most valuable on the shorter Disney cruises of three or four nights.

Related: What it's like on a $10,000 Disney Wish concierge cruise

Find your way by looking at the carpet

It can be disorienting at first to find your way around a cruise ship, but Disney makes it easy to know if you are heading forward or aft when you're in the long cabin hallways. If the carpet design is upside down, you're heading toward the back of the ship, but if it is right side up, you're heading to the front of the ship. In the photo below, the globe is the clue.

Late dinner is better

Disney cruise ships offer two dinner options — early or late seating. Your showtime for the evening entertainment is opposite your dinner; if you have an early dinner, you have the late show and vice versa.

It's logical to assume that an early dinner at 5:45 p.m., as opposed to late dinner at 8:15 p.m., is better if you have little kids. Having done both, I'd say that late dinner is vastly superior in most situations.

First, 5:45 p.m. is too early to have made the most of your day and be ready for dinner. With all there is to eat on the cruise, you might not even be hungry yet. Beyond that, if you aren't heading into the dark theater to see the show until 8:15 p.m., it can be hard for little ones to sit still or stay awake.

However, if you see the show first and then eat dinner, the servers are great about expressing your meal with little kids. It's better to do a quick dinner and then head to bed (or back to the kids club!) than an early dinner and miss the evening shows because your kid no longer has the ability to sit still.

The $45 adult restaurant is worth it

If you enjoy fine dining, book a fancy dinner at one of the adults-only restaurants. Depending on which ship you are on, there will be one or two restaurants that are reserved for adults — Palo and perhaps also Remy or Enchante .

Remy and Enchante are super-fancy and pricy, but Palo is approachable-fancy and costs an additional $45 per person for the set menu. It's 100% worth the money if you can get a booking.

You'll leave any cartoony trace of Disney behind as you leisurely indulge on beef tenderloin, sea scallops, grilled lobster with pasta, calamari and chocolate souffle.

The best character meetings aren't the posted ones

You'll find many character meet-and-greets on the itinerary for each day where it's known that Mickey, Donald or Minnie will be at a specific place at a specific time for a brief hello and a photo. Those meetups are great, but they are not the best character interactions you'll find on Disney Cruise Line.

The best time you'll have with characters will be when you least expect to see them. You might spot Goofy walking around in his pajamas, Donald waddling out on the deck or Minnie strolling the halls in her finest dress.

These encounters can't be planned or predicted, but without the lines and forced nature of a quick photo, the more free-form interaction with the characters is better than any planned photo sessions you'll find on land or sea.

All the characters come out to say goodbye on the last night

On the last night of each cruise, all of the classic characters come out to the atrium for a short time (15 - 20 minutes) so you can snap a quick photo with anyone you missed before they do their final farewell presentation. Check your app for this goodbye show, which usually occurs around 10 or 10:30 p.m.

Pro tip: If you have a specific character you want to photograph, ask a cast member setting up for the event where that character usually stands during photo time. That way, you can position yourself in the right area to snap a photo because the event can turn chaotic in a hurry.

Skip the debarkation line by carrying your own bags

Getting off the ship at the same time as thousands of other guests can be a buzzkill, so don't do that. If you can manage your own bags, don't put them out the night before and take them off the ship yourself the final morning.

That leaves you free to disembark as early as possible before the regular disembarkation begins, which might be around 7:30 a.m. or so, depending on the port, weather and other factors. You can avoid the crowds because you don't have to wait for your luggage to be assembled along with everyone else.

You can bring your own water and wine

If you want to have bottled water at the ready, bring a case of it onboard. It will need to be sealed in its original packaging and you have to carry it on (instead of having it in checked luggage), but it can be worth it if you want to save money for the truly yummy drinks.

If you enjoy wine or beer out on your veranda, you can save a little cash by bringing your own alcohol onboard , with limits. Guests 21 years and older may bring a maximum of two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne (no larger than 750 ml) or a six-pack of beer (no larger than 12 ounces) on board at the beginning of the voyage and at each port of call. Again, these beverages need to be carried on and not stashed in checked bags.

You can enjoy the spa without a treatment

If you love the idea of spa-like quiet and relaxation without paying around $200+ per treatment, look into the Rainforest Room in the Senses Spa, which costs much less than that per day. Depending on demand, you can book a one-day pass or get a pass that lasts the duration of your cruise. Inquire in the spa as to availability and exact pricing, but it's certainly going to be less than a spa treatment.

Each of the Disney ships has its own version of this room. On Disney Wish, the space has not only the heated loungers that are a common fixture in each of these thermal areas, but also an indoor and outdoor lounge component, a steam room, a chilled ice room and a relaxing water feature for dangling your feet.

Bottom line

You can't go wrong in booking a Disney cruise as there is already so much included and available at your fingertips. But with a little knowledge, you can skip some of the common first-timer mistakes and board like a pro, starting with your first cruise.

Related reading:

• What it's like inside the Disney Wish Star Wars-themed bar
• Everything you need to know about Disney Wish
• The best credit cards for Disney
• Best destinations you can sail to on a Disney cruise
• Everything you need to know about Disney's loyalty program
• The 2 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained