ranking of disney cruise ships

What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

We compare and rank to find the best disney cruise ship.

When you combine  cruises  with  Disney , something magical happens! Below we compare the five Disney Cruise Line ships to help you decide which one is best for your next getaway. So, what is the best Disney Cruise ship? Without further ado, here is our list of the top 5!

Ships in the Disney Cruise Line Fleet

The latest industry numbers indicate that Disney Cruise Lines have a 2.3 percent share of the worldwide cruise ship market. With additional ships soon to be added to the roster, we should only expect Disney will increase its market share over the coming years.

Disney Cruise Line has 5 active ships, with three additional Disney cruise ships expected to be added by 2025.

Here is the current DCL fleet:

• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Wish

A sixth ship, Disney Treasure, is expected to join the fleet in 2024. Disney has also announced the purchase  of the partially-constructed  Global Dream  for conversion to a new Disney ship, the Disney Adventure (launching in 2025). Finally, another custom-built ship, the Disney Destiny, is expected to also launch sometime in 2025. Once all is said and done, there will be eight ships in the fleet.

Castaway Cay  is a tropical paradise located in the Bahamas and is an  exclusive port-of-call for Disney cruise guests. Disney owns the island, so you won’t compete with non-Disney guests for reservations. In addition,  Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is under construction on Eleuthera as another exclusive port-of-call.

There are lots of similarities between these Disney ships. Each one has its advantages and its magical experiences. That said, some of the entertainment, dining, amenities, activities, and destinations vary from ship to ship.

Want personalized advice on which ship is best for your vacation?

Best Disney Cruise Ships

Each of Disney’s cruise ships has its own unique history and defining characteristics. Here is our list of the best Disney cruise ships, ranked!

1. Disney Wish Cruise Ship

Disney Wish Overview

Disney Wish  is the newest Disney Cruise ship, launched in the summer of 2022. For its inaugural season, the ship focuses on 3- and 4-night Bahamian itineraries sailing from Port Canaveral (FL), with visits to Disney’s Castaway Cay and Nassau.

This ship has a length of 1,119 ft and a gross tonnage of about 144,000. The Disney Wish has 1,254 staterooms and boasts an onboard Guest capacity of 2,508 (at double occupancy) and 4,000 (max occupancy). In addition, 1,555 Crew Members keep the ship running. Disney Wish currently has no sister ships – it is the first in a series of three so-called “Triton Class” Disney ships (the two sister ships are expected to be introduced in 2024 and 2025).

While we admit that the newest isn’t always the best, that’s certainly  not  the case here. Instead, the Disney Wish has quite simply  changed the game  when it comes to cruising.

Disney Wish Dining

Disney Wish offers three rotational dining restaurants, two of which offer a sort of “dinner and a show” experience.

At  Arendelle – a Frozen Dining Adventure , you’re an honored guest of Queen Anna and Kristoff as they celebrate their engagement with Norwegian-inspired cuisine and live musical performances from Elsa and Olaf.

On another night, you’ll experience  Worlds of Marvel , which offers a worldly menu inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe, along with a little adventure in the form of Ant-Man and the Wasp demonstrating Super Hero technologies.

Finally,  1923  offers a dining experience steeped in the golden age of Hollywood. Named after the year the Disney brothers founded their first studio, you’ll enjoy the flavors of California while surrounded by relics of the early days of animation.

For those seeking an elegant (upcharged) experience, try  Palo Steakhouse  for dinner — or drop into  Hyperspace Lounge  for an intergalactic drink. And with casual dining options such as  Marceline Market  and even places to grab a Taco or some BBQ, you’ll never go hungry onboard the Disney Wish!

Disney Wish Entertainment

Disney Wish onboard activities include Disney’s first-ever “attraction at sea” called the “ AquaMouse ,” a sort of waterslide meets raft ride meets roller coaster. Live shows include Disney’s  The Little Mermaid  and  Disney’s Aladdin . And, of course, there’s a vast array of movie, nightclubs, pools, pubs, a Walt Disney theatre, and more!

Disney Wish Activities for Kids

Disney Wish offers plenty to keep the kids entertained. Train at  Marvel Super Hero Academy , visit  Star Wars Cargo Bay  or build your own coaster at the  Walt Disney Imagineering Lab .  Edge  and  Vibe  cater to tweens and teens, while  it’s a small world nursery!, Toy Story Splash Zone  and  Mickey & Minnie Captain’s Deck  is waiting for the tiniest travelers.

Set Sail on the Disney Wish with The Vacationeer !

2. Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship

Disney Fantasy Overview

Disney Fantasy  – the sister ship of Disney Dream – was launched in 2012 as Disney Cruise Line’s latest ship. Guests can choose between a seven-night Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise. This ship has a length of 1,114.8 ft and a gross tonnage is 129,750. Like Disney Dream, the Fantasy has an onboard guest capacity of 2.500 (double occupancy) and 4,000 (max occupancy) with a crew of over 1,400.

Routes:  Port Canaveral, Florida; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St Thomas; US Virgin Islands; Castaway Cay, Bahamas; Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica.

We love Disney Fantasy , and so do other Guests!

Disney Fantasy Dining

Disney Fantasy offers Rotational dining between the always entertaining dinner show named Animation Magic at its  Animator’s Palate  restaurant. The ship’s other  dining locations  include the magical Enchanted Garden and the fairytale dining room of  Royal Court . In contrast, the casual dining options include  Cabanas , Flo’s  Café , and snacks at  Eye Scream  and  Frozone Treats . The Northern Italian cuisine of  Palo  and French-inspired  Remy provide a few upscale and intimate options for adults.

Disney Fantasy Entertainment

Disney Fantasy onboard activities include a “water roller coaster” called the “AquaDuck,” the nightclub district called Europa, several pools, pubs, theatres, and more!

Disney Fantasy Activities for Kids

Like the other Disney cruise ships, Disney’s Fantasy has plenty of individual and instructor-led activities geared to kids of all ages.

3. The Disney Magic

Disney Magic Overview

Disney Magic was the first Disney cruise ship that had its maiden voyage on July 30, 1998, and has been in service ever since. It boasts a length of 984 ft, a gross tonnage of 83,338, and has 11 public decks, 875  staterooms , a crew of 945, and enough capacity for 2,700 guests.

The interior of Disney Magic is decorated in an Art Deco style, while the ship’s exterior color scheme is black, red, and white with 20 yellow lifeboats (matching the colors of Mickey Mouse). Disney Magic’s horn blasts a tune from Disney’s famous “When You Wish Upon a Star.” The ship’s Godmother is Patricia Disney, the wife of Roy E. Disney.

Routes : 4 Night Caribbean Cruises; 5, 6, 7, and 8 Night Western Caribbean Cruises; 2, 3, 4, and 8 Night Bahamian Cruises; 4, 5, 7, 9, and 12-night Mediterranean Cruises; and Special Cruises

Simply put, Disney Magic is… magical!

Disney Magic Dining

Disney Magic  offers two dining times – early and late. The Disney Cruise Line uses something they call “Rotational Dining” to ensure that guests have a chance to experience each of the ship’s themed restaurants. Regarding dining options, Disney Magic has several restaurants, and all three participate in the Rotational Dining schedule. Disney Magic’s dining locations include Lumiere’s (themed after Beauty and the Beast), Rapunzel’s Royal Table (inspired by Disney animated movie Tangled), and Animator’s Palate. In addition, Disney Magic’s  Palo restaurant  is located on the aft deck. It serves Northern Italian fare at dinnertime (18+, seats 130 guests).

Disney Magic Entertainment

The fun never stops on  Disney Magic .  There are live Broadway-style shows with your favorite Disney characters, fireworks, character meets, and movie theaters with first-run and Disney movies. The Walt Disney Theater and the Buena Vista Theater, karaoke, games, several pools, and a variety of Disney-themed deck parties, including Pirates Night and Sail-Away Celebration. The ship also boasts a massive LED screen called “Funnel Vision” and numerous lounges and bars (including  O’Gills Pub ). Keys piano bar, the Promenade Lounge, D-Lounge, and the adults-only Fathoms.

Disney Magic Activities for Kids

Disney Magic hosts a variety of  kids’ clubs  to keep the youngsters entertained, including:

-It’s a Small World Nursery is a play area for infants .

– Oceaneer Club  and the Oceaneer Lab are geared towards kids ages 3 to 12 years old. Activities include themed activities, computer games, experiments, costume dress, and more.

-The Edge is an interactive area where younger guests play (ages 11-14).

-The Vibe club is strictly for teens and offers video games, Internet, TV, music, Internet access, and social activities.

Need Help Deciding Which Ship to Pick?

4. Disney Dream Cruise Ship

Disney Dream Overview

Disney Dream  is the 3rd  Disney Cruise Line  ship operated by The Walt Disney Company and has been active since 2011. The ship currently sails three-day, four-day, and sometimes five-day cruises to the  Bahamas . It has a capacity of 2,500 (double occupancy) or 4,000 passengers maximum and has a crew of 1,458. Disney Dream is 1,114 ft in length and has a gross tonnage of 83,000.

Routes : With the arrival of the Disney Wish, the Disney Dream is no longer primarily based at  Port Canaveral, Florida.  It now offers 3, 4, and 5-night Bahamas cruises from Port Miami , along with multiple European itineraries of 4-11 nights departing from Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), Copenhagen, and Southampton.

Overall, the Disney Dream is fantastic. It’s not our absolute favorite, but there’s really not much to complain about.

Disney Dream Dining

Disney Dream has Rotational dining where you will get to experience 3 different restaurants each night of your cruise. The ship is home to a “state-of-the-art” dinner show at  Animator’s Palate , a classic Disney fairytale feast at  Royal Palace , and  Enchanted Garden  set in a serene conservatory setting. For a more casual dining experience, head to  Cabanas  for a casual breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Or check out the pizza, chicken, burgers, and salads at  Flo’s Café . For a delicious icy treat, head to  Frozone Treats , or  Eye Scream  (an ice cream shop). The Italian-inspired Palo and the French-inspired  Remy  are both high-end, adult-only dining options. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day.

Disney Dream Entertainment

Disney Dream onboard activities include digital sports simulators, a 9-hole mini-golf course, a full-sized basketball court, a volleyball court, a pitch, and a walking track.

Disney Wonder is also home to a “water roller coaster” called the AquaDuck, Mickey’s Slide, and has three pools, including the quiet cove pool. The ship also boasts two theaters: the Walt Disney Theater (live Broadway-style performances) and the Buena Vista Theater (first-run Disney movies).

Disney Dream Activities for Kids

Like the other Disney cruise ships, Disney’s It’s a Small World Nursery, Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Edge, Goofy’s Sports Deck, and Vibe are geared to kids of all ages.

5. Disney Wonder Cruise Ship

Disney Wonder Overview

Disney Wonder  is the second ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and made its maiden voyage in August 1999. She is constructed in a nearly identical fashion to Disney Magic. However, the ship’s interior is decorated in the Art Nouveau style rather than Art Deco. Disney Wonder has 11 public decks, 875 staterooms, a crew of roughly 950, and can accommodate 2,400 passengers. This Disney cruise ship has a length of 974 ft and a gross tonnage of 83,000.

Routes : The routes include Alaska , Hawaii , Australia/New Zealand, and the USA’s West Coast

Still an excellent cruise ship (despite our ranking).

Disney Wonder Dining

Disney Cruise Line uses a dining rotation where guests rotate to a different restaurant each night. Guests are seated at the same table number – with the same table guests and wait staff – for every night they are on board. This creates less confusion and a friendly commodore among the guests.

Disney Wonder has three main restaurants:  Triton’s ,  Tiana’s Place,  and  Animator’s Palate .  Triton’s  features French cuisine in an Art Deco dining room,  Tiana’s Place  serves southern cooking with live jazz music, and  Animator’s Palate  is a dining show offering contemporary cuisine and Disney characters. The other main dining rooms and food options include  Cabanas , a buffet-style restaurant for breakfast and lunch and a casual eatery for dinner, a sandwich and salad shop called  Daisy’s de-Lites ,  Pinocchio’s Pizza , and the adult-oriented Palo, where Italian-inspired food and décor are complimented with live music.

Disney Wonder Entertainment

Some of the entertainment and lifestyle highlights of Disney Wonder include Crown & Fin Pub, an adults-only British-style pub, Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, and the relaxing and rejuvenating Senses Spa and Salon. Check  here  for a list of all onboard activities.

Disney Wonder Activities for Kids

Like Disney Magic, Disney Wonder offers the Oceaneers Club and the Oceaneers Lab for children ages 3-10. The Club provides several TVs, costumes to play dress-up, a slide, and some counselor-led activities. The Lab is geared towards the older age ranges and offers video games, TVs, computers, cooking classes, and more.

How to Book your Disney Cruise and Receive Onboard Credit

Ready to book your Disney Cruise? Do you have any questions?  The Vacationeer  can help!

The Vacationeer offers something called “onboard credit” as a free  bonus/incentive  for booking through their agency. Onboard credit is essentially  free money  – linked to your stateroom account – that can be used to pay for nearly anything on your Disney ship or in Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island. This includes drinks, meals, merchandise, activities, spa treatments, gratuity, and more.

Ask your travel agent about onboard credit  before booking a  Disney Cruise line vacation. If they don’t offer it, then hang up and find one that does! We can tell you that The Vacationeer offers the most competitive onboard credit in the business and doesn’t charge you a single penny to use their services!

See  the Vacationeer’s  Onboard Credit promotion  and our  Disney Cruise Onboard Credit  page, then  get a free quote  today!

The Vacationeer can also help you plan and book your Disney cruise on their newest Disney cruise ships – the  Disney Wish .

Best Disney Cruise Ship for Adults

While there are no Disney cruises exclusively for adults, there are plenty of dining options, bars, excursions, and perks geared towards adults on each cruise.

The Disney Dream is our pick for the  best Disney cruise ship for adults . It offers the cosmopolitan Skyline lounge, an upscale travel-themed lounge called The Meridian, the Italian restaurant Palo, the French fine-dining of Remy, a Quiet Cove for adults, the relaxation and rejuvenation of Senses Spa , and port excursions that cater specifically to adults.

Where is the Best Location on a Disney Cruise Ship?

The best location on a Disney cruise ship for the best views (widest vistas) is the very front or the very back of the ship.

The best location on a Disney cruise ship if you are prone to getting seasick is the center part of the ship because you’ll feel the least movement there. Specifically, try to reserve Deck 6 Midship on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, Deck 6 or 7 Midship on the Disney Wish, and Decks 7 and 8 Midship on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

What is the Best Deck on a Disney Cruise Ship?

The higher decks and cabins at the front (forward) or back (aft) have better views, but the ship will sway the most the higher you go. So it’s really just personal preference.

What is the Best Side of a Disney Cruise Ship?

If you sail out of Port Canaveral and stop at Castaway Cay, the  starboard side is the best side of a Disney cruise ship  because it faces the beach of Port Canaveral, where you can wave to everyone on the beach as the ship sets sail. The starboard side is also  usually  the side that faces  Castaway Cay  when the ship is docked there (though this will always depend on conditions at the time of docking). The starboard side is the right-hand side of the vessel, while the port side is on the left.

Enjoy your Disney Cruise!

We hope our Best Disney Cruise Ships RANKED article gives you some suggestions.

For more Disney information, please see our  How Much Do Disney Cruises Cost ,  Last-Minute Disney Cruise ,  What’s Included and What Isn’t , Best Cruise Lines for Kids ,   Disney Cruise Customer Service ,   Why Use a Disney Travel Agent ,  Disney Payment Plans ,  Disney Transportation Map ,  and  Disney World Tips   articles.

Thank you for reading our page, and we hope you have a fantastic vacation out at sea!

Get Free Help Planning Your Cruise

If you need help planning and booking your magical Disney Cruise Line vacation, contact our friends at   The Vacationeer .

Their services are always helpful and totally  free of charge !

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Best Disney Cruise Ship (Ranked for 2024)

Last updated on Jan 1, 2024 by Adam Bryan . This post may contain affiliate links.

If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing the high seas on a Disney Cruise but didn’t know which ship to sail on, then this article is for you!

After sailing on all 5 Disney Cruise ships, I’ll compare every ship’s amenities, itineraries, staterooms, entertainment, kids clubs, and dining, in order to help you decide which one will be the best for your next vacation.

So with that said, let’s jump straight to my rankings of the best Disney Cruise ships!

Disney Cruise Ships Ranked

Best disney cruise ships.

• What’s the same on every Disney Cruise ship?

What Disney Cruise Ship has the Best Food?

Best disney cruise ship for toddlers, best disney cruise ship for adults.

• What’s the best Disney Cruise Ship on a Budget?

What is the most luxurious Disney Cruise ship?

What ship has the best concierge staterooms and lounges, what is the most expensive cruise ship, what are the best disney cruise destinations, how many disney cruise ships are there, does port (left) or starboard (right) have the best views, should i go on a disney cruise before or after disney world, final thoughts.

Here are the Disney Cruise Ships ranked from best to worst, based on amenities, staterooms, dining options, and itineraries.

• Disney Wish
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder

Although there are a lot of similarities between these ships, each one has its own advantages and disadvantages that make them unique in their own ways. I’ll go into more detail about that in the next section.

Here is my list of Disney Cruise ships, ranked!

1. Disney Wish

As Disney Cruise Lines’ newest ship, The Disney Wish is the undisputed goat at this moment.

Yes, the layout is wonky, but the overall aesthetics, stateroom quality, immersive restaurant options, and youth clubs take this boat to the next level.

If you’re looking for the nicest staterooms, this is the ship for you.

Disney Wish Entertainment

The entertainment onboard the Disney Wish is fantastic. The two highlights are the Hero Zone and Luna, which is the main hub for all daily/nightly entertainment including bingo, game shows, and some trivia.

There are two movie theaters onboard where you can view first run Disney movies as well as some older releases.

The Walt Disney Theater is home two three Broadway-style shows – Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and Disney Seas the Adventure.

You can find daily activities at Luna and Keg Compass, just to name a few.

Lastly, you can’t forget about the fireworks at sea.

Disney Wish Dining

The restaurant and food quality onboard the Disney Wish is the best of the entire fleet.

For counter service, you can grab some quick bites from the Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods which fathers fan-favorite options like pizza, burgers, chicken strips, fries, barbecue, tacos and burrito bowls, and all you can eat soft serve ice cream.

I couldn’t believe that they had all you can eat barbecue and build your own burrito bowls on board.

The Main Dining rotation is by far the most immersive thanks to World of Marvel (where Ant Man, The Wasp, and Spider-Man an appearance), Arendelle (a Frozen dining adventure), and 1923 (a glizy steakhouse). Not to mention the adults-only options are top notch at Palo Steakhouse and Enchante.

And let’s not forget about Marceline Market, which is a buffet open for breakfast and lunch. My only complaint about Marceline Market is that the seafood selection is lacking compared to Cabanas onboard the Dream and Fantasy.

In terms of bars and lounges, the Wish is home to the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge, which is so cool. It reminds me of a microscopic version of the Galactic Starcruiser . The Bayou is also a great place to listen to live music and snack on some beignets. There are numerous other bars located throughout the ship, but these are the two most popular.

Disney Wish for Kids

The kids clubs aboard the Disney Wish are by far the most immersive of the fleet thanks in part to Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars Cargo Bay, Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, and Fairytale Hall. The clubs for teens and tweens are just as cool too!

But the highlight of the boat is definitely the AquaMouse waterslide which is the first ever Disney attraction at sea.

2. Disney Dream

Prepare to be dazzled by the Disney Dream, a magnificent vessel that takes guests on an extraordinary voyage filled with imagination and luxury. With its iconic Art Deco design, innovative features, and world-class entertainment, this ship offers an enchanting experience that combines Disney storytelling with the ultimate in comfort and indulgence.

It by far has the best layout of any of the other cruise ships and is well-loved by many guests.

Disney Dream Entertainment

The signature show onboard the Disney Dream is Beauty and Beast, which is great! You can also watch Disney’s Believe which lets you relive some of Disney’s greatest movie moments onstage as well as the iconic Golden Mickeys.

You can view first-run movies in the Buena Vista Theater or even watch some movies under the stars via FunnelVision.

The Dream is also home to Marvel Day at Sea during select sailings!

Throughout the day, you can find daily activities at the D Lounge or some fun adult-only games shows at Evolution.

The best part of the Dream for adults is that there is an exclusive area filled with bars, lounges, and a nightclub in the back of the ship.

Disney Dream Dining

Food-wise, the Dream has three great rotational dining spots – Animator’s Palate (with Crush), Royal Palace, and Enchanted Garden. Animators Palate is by far the most interactive dining experience onboard. And for adults, there is a Palo and Remy, which are both fantastic in their own ways.

For counter-service food, you can find pizza, sandwiches, burgers, and all you can eat ice cream.

Cabanas is probably my favorite Disney Cruise buffet due in part to it’s stone crab selection.

Disney Dream for Kids

Onboard the Disney Dream, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

There’s also a Goofy’s sports deck with mini-golf and an AquaDuck waterslide that’s fun for all ages (adults included).

3. Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is a majestic ship combines sophisticated design, immersive entertainment, and unparalleled service to create an extraordinary vacation experience.

The Fantasy is the sister ship to the Dream as they share almost the same layout and amenities, with a few minor changes in the hard and soft product. The Fantasy currently sails 7-night western and eastern caribbean routes out of Port Canaveral, FL.

Disney Fantasy Entertainment

The Disney Fantasy is home to three Broadway style shows – Aladdin, Frozen, and Disney’s Believe.

Onboard the ship, you’ll also find a movie theater that shows first-run Disney movies as well as D Lounge for daily activities and game shows and a nightclub district called Europe which features several bars, lounges, and a British-mode nightclub called The Tube.

Disney Fantasy Dining

The Fantasy has identical dining locations to the Dream. The main dining restaurants are Animator’s Palate, Enchanted Garden, and Royal Court. There is also two adults-only restaurants called Remy and Palo.

For casual, quick service options, you’ll find a buffet called Cabanas, Flo’s Cafe for burgers, chicken, pizza, and salad, as well as Eye Scream Treats for unlimited ice cream.

Disney Fantasy for Kids

Onboard the Disney Fantasy, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

You’ll also find a Goofy’s Sports deck for some mini-golf

There is also a water roller coaster called the AquaDuck!

4. Disney Magic

The Disney Magic cruise ship embodies timeless Disney charm and elegance, offering a captivating experience for guests of all ages. From its classic design to its immersive entertainment and dining options, this vessel showcases the perfect blend of enchantment, adventure, and relaxation on the high seas.

The Magic can be found on Caribbean itineraries as well as those found in northern Europe.

Disney Magic Entertainment

Onboard the Disney Magic, you’ll can watch Broadway-style live shows in the Walt Disney Theater like Tangled the Musical, Disney Dreams, and Twice Charmed An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story.

There is also a Buena Vista Theater that shows first-run Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars movies.

Not to mention you’ll be able to participate in daily actives in the D Lounge or Premade Lounge during your sailing.

The adult’s only nightclub on the Magic is called Fathoms which is home to disco dance parties and adults-only game shows. You’ll also find bars and lounges scattered throughout each deck.

Disney Magic Dining

The best part about the Disney Magic is the Duck-In Diner, if you love schwarma!

Besides that, you can find three main dining restaurants – Animator’s Palate, Lumiere’s, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table, which is a Tangled-themed immersive dining experience. There is also only one adults-only restaurant called Palo.

Quick eats include Cabanas buffet, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Duck-In Diner, and Eye Scream Treats.

Disney Magic for Kids

On the Disney Magic, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

There’s also a Wide World of Sports which has basketball court!

5. Disney Wonder

With its classic charm and impeccable attention to detail, the Disney Wonder offers a magical experience for Disney fans of all ages. From its elegant design to its captivating entertainment and dining options, the Disney Wonder invites guests to embark on a journey filled with enchantment, imagination, and cherished memories.

The Wonder was the second ever Disney Cruise ship and currently sails the west coast of the US on itineraries for Alaska, Hawaii, Cabo, Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia.

Disney Wonder Entertainment

Onboard the Disney Wonder, you’ll find a nightclub for adults called Azure, a D Lounge for daily activities, a movie theater for first run movies, and a main theater that has nightly performances of Frozen A Musical Spectacular and the Golden Mickeys.

Disney Wonder Dining

The dining options are plentiful onboard the Disney Wonder. The main dining rooms include Animator’s Palate, Tritons, and the fun and musical Tiana’s Place. If you love the Princess and the Frog, you’ll love this spot!

Adults can also dine at Palo, the only adult exclusive restaurant on board available for brunch and dinner.

For counter service, you will find burgers, pizza, and all you can eat soft serve ice cream. Unlike the Magic, there is not a place to get schwarma.

Disney Wonder for Kids

Onboard the Disney Wonder, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

What’s the same on every Disney Cruise ship?

There are a handful of things that you’ll find on ever Disney Cruise:

• Service – regardless of what ship you’re on, you’ll immediately notice that the world class service is consistent on all of the ships
• Movie Theater – every ship has a movie theater that shows first-run Disney movies
• Pool – every ship will have a pool but the number of pools vary depending on the ship
• Room Service – regardless of stateroom or ship, you have access to complimentary room service 24/7
• Unlimited Ice Cream – you can enjoy all you can eat soft serve ice cream
• Pirate Night – you can participate in Pirate Night on every ship
• Adults-only areas – every ship has a Quiet Cove pool, bars, lounges, as well as an exclusive adults-only restaurant like Palo
• Spa – every ship has a Senses Spa, salon, and gym
• Rotational Dining – every ship has three rotating main dining rooms
• Buffet – you’ll find a buffet on ever Disney Cruise ship
• Character Meet and Greets – you can meet characters on every sailing
• Shopping – every ship has their own stores
• Key to the World Card – every guest will receive a Key to the World Card to access their stateroom and make purchase without cash
• Sail Away Deck Party – you’ll find a sail away deck party on every ship
• Youth Club – you’ll find youth clubs including a nursery onboard every ship
• Alcohol – every ship serves alcohol and each guest over the age of 21 has an alcohol allowance that they can bring onboard
• Concierge Lounge – every ship has a Concierge Lounge available exclusively for guests staying in Concierge staterooms

The Disney Wish has the best food on any Disney Cruise Ship.

Although it’s a tight race between the Magic, Wonder, and Wish, the food options on the Wish are slightly better.

From a counter service perceptive, the Wish has a taco spot and a barbecue spot, both of which can’t be found on any of their other ships.

Plus, it’s the only ship currently to have a Palo Steakhouse which I believe is far better than the normal Palo.

And in case you were wondering, the second best ship in regards to food options is the Disney Magic mainly due to one thing I love so much – schwarma.

The Best Disney Cruise Ship for toddlers (or kids in general) is the Disney Wish .

The Wish is jam packed with amazing Youth Clubs as well as some exciting areas such as the Star Wars: Cargo Bay, Mickey and Minnie’s Captain Deck, Marvel Super Hero Academy, Fairytale Hall, and Imagineering Lab.

Not to mention, the AquaMouse is the best waterslide on any Disney ship!

But, regardless of what ship you sail on, your kids will have so much fun thanks to the countless character meet and greet opportunities, fun Broadway-style shows, all you can eat ice cream, and fun pools.

Hands down, the best Disney Cruise Ship for adults is the Disney Dream .

The Disney Dream is home to several lounges and bars like Skyline, Pub 687, the Meridian, and Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar. The Dream also has a nightclub called Evolution which is home to adults-only live shows, dance parties, and so much more.

Although the Wish is the best ship in the fleet, it lacks a separate area for adults in the evening, similar to what you’ll find in The District. There’s just something nicer about having a separate area to drink and lounge that’s not located directly in the middle of the ship where everyone needs to pass by.

The Disney Dream also has a nice Quiet Cove area for adults as well as a very scenic Senses Spa, Salon, and gym area.

And when it comes to food, adults can dine at both Palo and Remy (no kids allowed).

What’s the best Disney Cruise Ship on a Budget?

If you’re looking to cruise on a budget , the cheapest ship with the lowest priced itineraries can be found on the Disney Magic .

Although prices will vary depending on the time of year you choose to sail, most itineraries on the Disney Magic appear to be a couple hundred dollars cheaper than the ones on the Dream and Wish.

Honestly, you can use these strategies to make any Disney Cruise affordable.

The most luxurious Disney Cruise ship is the Disney Wish . The sheer quality of suites (including the Wish Tower Suite), high-end shopping, superior Concierge Lounge and sundeck, as well as the dining options, and makes it a true masterpiece.

In terms of luxury, nothing else comes close, at the moment.

The best Concierge Lounge and stateroom options can be found on the Disney Wish .

The Wish’s Concierge Lounge and private sundeck is massive and completely blows the other ships’ out of the water.

Not to mention the quality, size, and style of Concierge Suites found on the Wish is significantly nicer and larger than the ones found on any of the other ships.

That said, the perks , benefits, and service you receive as a Concierge guest are completely identical on every ship.

Technically speaking, the most expensive cruise ship has nothing to do with the ship itself but instead the itineraries it follows, as well as the stateroom that you stay in .

Generally speaking, the most expensive destinations include Hawaii, Alaska, and Europe (Mediterranean, Greece, and Norway).

If you sail decide to book a Concierge Stateroom, you’ll notice the significant price different between the next highest room category (Verandah).

That said, The Wish appears to cost more for sailings to the Bahamas cruises compared to the Dream when it previously sailed the same route from Port Canaveral.

Everyone’s opinion will be very different, but based on my own personal sailing experience, these are my favorite destinations ranked:

• Mediterranean (out of Barcelona)
• Western Caribbean

My bucket list includes sailings to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Norway, and Cabo.

There are currently 5 Disney Cruise Ships sailing with two more on the way. The next ship that’s going to start sailing in 2024 is named The Treasure.

The names are:

This strictly depends on what destinations your ship is sailing to. But from personal experience, the Starboard side always seems to have the better views. Not to mention, you can see the fireworks at sea from your stateroom balcony if you are on the Starboard side.

When leaving out of Port Canaveral, the best side will be the Starboard (right) side because it faces the beach in Castaway Cay , as well as the beach when leaving Port Canaveral. When in Nassau, Bahamas, the best side of the boat is Port (left) because gives you the best view of the island.

If it were up to me, I would 100% go on a Disney Cruise after a Disney World vacation .

As fun as Disney World is, it can be pretty stressful and tiring with all of the planning, itinerary-building , walking, heat exhaustion, etc.

Disney Cruises, on the other hand, are the exact opposite . Cruising is more peaceful, there’s less walking involved, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and relaxed.

That’s why I recommend that you always start with Disney World and then end with a Disney Cruise.

And there you have it!

We’ve sailed through the rankings and comparisons of all five magnificent Disney cruise ships. From the timeless elegance of the Disney Magic to the dazzling innovation of the Disney Dream, the enchanting Disney Fantasy, the classic charm of the Disney Wonder, and the majestic nature of the Disney Wish, each ship offers a unique and unforgettable voyage.

Whether you’re seeking family-friendly adventures, luxurious indulgence, or the perfect blend of Disney magic and relaxation, there’s a ship waiting to fulfill your dreams on the high seas.

So, set your course, plan your voyage , pack your bags , and embark on a Disney cruise experience that will create memories to last a lifetime. Bon voyage!

More Travel Planning

About Adam Bryan

Hey what's up, I'm Adam, founder of Urban Tastebud Disney and I spend most of my days eating (and researching, but mostly eating) around Disney Parks to create useful travel planning content that will help you maximize your time and money at Disney.

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Cruise Tips For Families & Single Cruisers

Things to Know Before You Cruise

Ranking Disney Cruise Ships: Best To Worst

When it comes to planning a family vacation, a Disney cruise is often at the top of the list for many parents. And who can blame them? From character meet and greets to Broadway-style shows, there’s something for everyone on a Disney cruise.

But with so many ships in the fleet, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose. That’s where this article comes in – I’ve ranked all of the Disney cruise ships from best to worst based on public opinion, so you can make an informed decision on which ship will provide the best experience for your family.

Let’s face it – choosing the right ship for your family can make or break your vacation. For example, my friend chose the Disney Dream for her family’s first cruise, but they found that the ship was too large and overwhelming for their tastes. On the other hand, another friend sailed on the Disney Magic and loved the cozy, intimate atmosphere.

That’s why it’s important to know the features and highlights of each ship before making a decision. So without further ado, let’s dive into the rankings and see which Disney cruise ship comes out on top.

• Disney Cruise Line has multiple ships in its fleet, with the oldest being the Disney Magic and the newest being the Disney Wish.
• The best Disney cruise ship according to customer reviews is the Disney Dream, closely followed by Disney Fantasy, and the ship that came last still has a respectable score of 3.8 out of 5.
• Each Disney ship has its own unique features and itineraries, so choosing the best ship will depend on individual preferences and needs.
• Disney private islands, Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point, are included in some itineraries and add to the overall Disney experience.

Ship Fleet Overview

As I scan through my research, I’m transported to the magical world of Disney Cruise Line’s fleet. The fleet ranges from the largest and newest ship, the Disney Wish, to the smallest and oldest ship, the Disney Magic. Each ship has its unique features and charms.

It’s fascinating to learn that the Disney Wish has a passenger capacity of 5,000 and a gross tonnage of 144,000, making it the largest ship in the fleet. On the other hand, the Disney Magic is the smallest ship in the fleet, with a gross tonnage of 83,969.

Apart from the ships, Disney Cruise Line also owns private islands, including Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point. These islands provide an exclusive experience for Disney Cruise Line passengers, with plenty of water activities and excursions.

It’s exciting to know that each ship has its own itinerary and features, making it essential to choose the right ship that suits specific preferences and needs.

Disney Dream vs Disney Fantasy

In my opinion, both the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are fantastic options for anyone looking to go on a Disney cruise.

If you’re looking for a shorter trip, the Dream is the way to go. It offers 3-night and 4-night sailings, making it ideal for those who want a quick getaway.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a longer cruise, the Fantasy is your best bet. It’s perfect for those who want to take a 7-night cruise and explore more of what the ship has to offer.

When it comes to differences between the two, the Dream is the ship that hosts the Marvel at Sea experience, where guests can meet up to 30 Marvel characters during their cruise.

On the other hand, the Fantasy offers the Star Wars Day at Sea experience, which is a must-do for any Star Wars fan.

Both ships offer a range of entertainment and activities, but it’s important to choose the ship that best suits your needs.

Overall, whether you choose the Dream or the Fantasy, you’re guaranteed to have a magical experience on a Disney cruise.

Disney Wonder and Disney Magic

Funny enough, the two smaller Disney ships, the Wonder and the Magic, have their own unique features that make them just as enjoyable as their larger counterparts.

The Disney Wonder, launched in 1999, is currently offering cruises to Alaska, which is a fantastic opportunity for families to experience the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness while enjoying the Disney magic. The ship has been well-maintained, and its public spaces are spacious and elegant. Passengers rave about the adult-only restaurant, Palo, which offers exquisite cuisine and impeccable service. The kids’ clubs are also highly rated, and families enjoy the character meet and greets and the Broadway-style shows. Overall, the Disney Wonder offers a fantastic family vacation experience, especially for those who want to explore Alaska.

The Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the fleet, but it has been refurbished several times, and it remains a favorite among many Disney cruise fans. The ship has a classic feel, with elegant decor and a cozy atmosphere.

One of the unique features of the Disney Magic is the AquaDunk water slide, which provides a thrilling ride for both kids and adults. The ship also offers a variety of dining options, including Animator’s Palate, which transforms into a colorful, interactive experience during dinner. Families love the daytime entertainment, such as the quizzes and games, and the character meet and greets are always a hit.

Despite being smaller than the other ships in the fleet, the Disney Magic still offers a fantastic vacation experience, especially for those who appreciate classic elegance and a cozy atmosphere.

Disney Wish Overview

I was excited to learn about the newest addition to the Disney cruise fleet, the Disney Wish, and the unique features it has to offer.

With a passenger capacity of 5,000 and a gross tonnage of 144,000, the Disney Wish is the largest ship in the fleet.

It has the first full Disney attraction at sea, the AquaMouse, a water coaster that takes guests on a ride through 760 feet of winding tubes.

There is also a Toy Story-themed district where kids can play in Andy’s room and ride the Slinky Dog Dash water slide.

Adults can enjoy the Quiet Cove pool area, which features a bar and a pool with a swim-up bar.

But the real stars of the show on the Disney Wish are the crew members, who get the most mentions in reviews.

Passengers love just how hard they’re working to offer that typical Disney experience.

Unfortunately, some reviewers have noted issues with bottlenecks and split restaurants that cause crowds and long delays.

However, overall, the Disney Wish seems to be a fantastic addition to the Disney cruise fleet, with plenty of onboard experiences for all ages to enjoy.

Crew and Service

Honestly, the crew members on the Disney Wish are the true highlight of the cruise experience, with their exceptional service and dedication to providing that special Disney magic.

From the moment we stepped on board, we were greeted with warm smiles and helpful hands. The staff seemed genuinely happy to be there, and their enthusiasm was infectious.

Throughout the trip, they went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed, whether it was bringing us extra towels or making sure we had a seat at the show. Their attention to detail was impressive, and it was clear that they had all received extensive customer service training.

It’s no surprise that staff satisfaction is high on the Disney Wish, as they’re treated well and valued for their hard work. This translates into exceptional service for guests, and it’s what sets Disney Cruise Line apart from other cruise lines.

The crew members on the Disney Wish truly care about making sure guests have the best possible experience, and they do everything in their power to make that happen. From the waitstaff in the restaurants to the housekeeping staff who kept our room spotless, everyone we encountered was friendly, helpful, and dedicated to providing top-notch service.

It’s clear that Disney invests a lot in its staff, and it pays off in the form of happy guests who become loyal customers.

Entertainment and Activities

Now that we’ve talked about the crew and service on Disney cruise ships, let’s move on to the next important aspect of any cruise experience: entertainment and activities. And when it comes to Disney, there’s no shortage of things to do for all ages.

One of the highlights of a Disney cruise is the live shows. From Broadway-style productions to character meet and greets, there’s something for everyone. The quality of the shows is consistently praised in reviews, and many guests say they’re better than what they’ve seen on land.

Additionally, the kids clubs on board are top-notch, with activities and experiences tailored to different age groups. Parents can feel comfortable leaving their children in the care of the trained staff while they enjoy some adult-only time.

Overall, if you’re looking for a cruise with plenty of entertainment options, you can’t go wrong with a Disney cruise.

Itineraries and Destinations

Navigating the vast sea of Disney itineraries and destinations is like charting a course through a magical treasure trove of adventure and excitement. Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of cruise length options, ranging from 3-night sailings to 14-night voyages, with itineraries that take you to popular ports of call such as the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and even transatlantic crossings. Depending on your preferences, you can choose to embark on a relaxing beach vacation, explore historical landmarks, or immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine.

Here is a table that summarizes the cruise length options and popular ports of call for each Disney ship:

No matter which ship and itinerary you choose, you can expect to experience the same level of Disney magic and customer service throughout your journey. Each destination is carefully selected to provide a unique and unforgettable experience for guests of all ages, and the activities and entertainment onboard are designed to complement and enhance your time on land. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned veteran, Disney Cruise Line has something for everyone.

Review Summary

After researching thousands of customer reviews and three big cruise ship review websites, I’ve found that each Disney ship offers a unique experience and has its own strengths and weaknesses.

Overall, the Disney Dream comes out on top as the best Disney cruise ship according to customer reviews. Passengers rave about the quality of the entertainment, the variety of things to do, and the amazing crew. The ship also hosts Marvel at Sea, an experience where guests can meet up to 30 Marvel characters on their cruise.

The Disney Fantasy follows closely behind, with many positive reviews about the ship’s luxurious amenities and excellent service. However, some negative reviews criticize the ship for being too kid-focused, which may not be ideal for adult passengers.

The Disney Magic, despite being the oldest ship in the fleet, still receives positive feedback for its well-maintained facilities and fantastic family-friendly activities.

Ultimately, choosing the best Disney ship will depend on personal preferences and features, but these review trends and customer feedback analysis can help guide you in making the right decision.

What are the differences in dining options between the Disney cruise ships?

Main dining vs. rotational dining is offered on all Disney ships. Specialty dining options vary by ship and include adult-only options. Families can enjoy character dining experiences while adults can opt for fine dining. Each ship offers unique dining experiences.

Are there any adult-only areas on the Disney cruise ships?

Yes, all Disney cruise ships have adult-only areas for entertainment and nightlife. These areas include nightclubs, lounges, and bars. They offer a more relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere away from the family-friendly areas.

What type of staterooms are available on the Disney cruise ships?

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of stateroom features and cabin categories, including inside, oceanview, balcony, and suite options. Some suites even come with a personal concierge and access to exclusive areas like the Concierge Lounge.

Do the Disney cruise ships have any eco-friendly initiatives?

Disney Cruise Line has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives and sustainability efforts on their ships. These include reducing waste, conserving water and energy, and using environmentally friendly products. They also support ocean conservation and have partnerships with organizations like the Nature Conservancy.

Are there any special events or activities offered exclusively on certain Disney cruise ships?

Disney Cruise Line offers unique character experiences and onboard entertainment on each ship. The Disney Dream hosts Marvel Day at Sea, while the Disney Fantasy offers Star Wars Day at Sea. The Disney Magic has the AquaDunk water slide and the Disney Wish has the first full Disney attraction at sea, the AquaMouse.

Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

Disney Cruise Ships Ranked, According to DCL Experts

If you are interested in Disney Cruise Line, you have likely wondered: how are Disney cruise ships ranked by experts? What Disney cruise ship is the best? When you are interested in going on a Disney Cruise Line (DCL) trip, you want to book the best ship for your vacation, after all.

We spoke to six Disney Cruise Line experts to find out the answers. Our experts are all Platinum Castaway Club members who have been on 10+ Disney Cruises. (That is a lot!) They're also all in the DCL arena as either podcasters, bloggers, travel agents specializing in DCL, or a combination of those jobs.

Be sure to read to the end because we link to some fun Disney Cruise Line merchandise to gear up and get excited for your cruises!

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Best Disney Cruise Ships Ranked Overview

“Best” Disney cruise ship and Disney cruise ships ranked are subjective, of course. Answers vary according to what you're most interested in during your cruises. For instance, what's the best Disney cruise ship for entertainment venues? How are Disney cruise ships ranked if you're traveling with little kids versus teenagers?

Skip Ahead per category Disney cruise ships ranked Winners:

• Best Disney Cruise Ship, Overall
• Best Food on a Disney Cruise Ship
• Best Disney Cruise Ship for the Ages: Adults to Kids

Best of Disney cruise Line in additional Categories:

• Best DCL Onboard Entertainment: Spas, Shops, Clubs
• Best Disney Cruise Line Activities on Castaway Cay, Best Itineraries, and Best Excursions

Disney Cruise Line Experts weigh in on:

• Adventures by Disney River Cruises
• Fun DCL Questions for the Experts
• Who are the Experts? Meet them here!

⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Line Ship, Overall Winner ⭐️

The winner(s) may surprise you! We expected the clear winner to be Disney Wish, the fleet's newest, “shiniest” ship. However, it wasn't!

Disney Wish received 4 votes of 6, while Disney Magic and Fantasy received 1 vote each. Many of our DCL experts' selections for Best Disney Cruise Line Ship were tied to the onboard offerings and the itineraries.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, MAGIC, & FANTASY ✨

Onboard offerings (like venues and restaurants) rarely change unless the ship is dry-docked and undergo interior redesigns. The itineraries often (but not always) change yearly depending on where the ship is based.

Scott (from DCL Blog) has been on all of Disney's cruise ships multiple times (including Disney Wish), but Disney Magic remains his favorite. The size of the ship is a winner for him, along with the memories he and his family have made on 11 sailings on Magic, encompassing wonderful destinations.

Brian and Sam (from DCL Duo) like Wish best. While they admit the adult areas need some work and currently itineraries are limited, they like the number of new experiences onboard, high quality of cuisine offerings, and overall quality of the ship.

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders Blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) agree with this notion. They like Disney Wish because of its experiences that you won't find on other ships in the fleet.

Karen (My Path Unwinding Travel) enjoys Disney Fantasy's AquaDuck waterslide. She also likes the longer itineraries offered, preferring longer cruises over short ones. She loves the ability to stay at Walt Disney World before or after the cruise. The Fantasy adult dining and lounge areas take the cake for her!

Please read to the end of the post for further bio information on all of our DCL experts!

⭐️ Best Food on a Disney Cruise Line Ship ⭐️

The choice is unanimous: Disney Wish wins!

Our DCL experts agree on the winner. They have all sailed on Disney Wish, some numerous times. Not only does the Wish have the best dining venues — including Enchanté — but also the best quality of cuisine.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY WISH ✨

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) add, “The quick service options at Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods on the pool deck really sets the Disney Wish apart. There are so many options. We especially love the barbecue and cantina, both things you can't find on any of the other ships!”

💫 DCL Experts Best Disney Cruise Line Food Experience

We also asked our DCL experts to reminisce about their favorite Disney Cruise Line dining experience to date. Here's what they had to say:

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo):

Remy dinner on our very first Disney cruise aboard the Fantasy was our most memorable meal. We were traveling with two other couples and were able to eat dinner in the Remy wine room. The food was excellent, the wine was plentiful, and the evening was all the more magical because we shared it with friends.

Scott (Disney Cruise Line Blog):

It's impossible to single out one aspect that made dining at Remy (Dream/Fantasy) outstanding. From service to the dishes, each aspect of our numerous Remy dinner experiences has been excellent.

Karen (My Path Unwinding Travel):

Palo Steakhouse on the Disney Wish served course by course in our Wish Tower Suite!

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel):

Arendelle on the Disney Wish became an immediate favorite for us! We were so impressed with the musical performances and the entertainment. The food was outstanding as well. This is a great meal the whole family will enjoy!

⬇︎ Download our Freebie: A PDF to Help You Decide What Ship is Best for Your Disney Cruise Vacation!

Download our Free “Best of Disney Cruise Line” PDF to Help You Vacation Plan

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⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Ship for the Ages: Adults to Kids ⭐️

Here are the blocks of ages for each category:

• Adults: 18+
• Teenagers: 14 to 17
• Tweens: 11 to 14
• Children: ages 3 to 12
• Infants and toddlers: 6 months to 3 years

💫 Best DCL Ship for Adults

We know firsthand that you don't have to have kids (or travel with them) to enjoy Disney Cruise Line. In fact, we share why Disney Cruise Line is great for adults traveling without kids . As such, we asked our DCL experts which Disney cruise ship is the best for adults.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY FANTASY ✨

Three of our four experts agree that Disney Fantasy is the clear winner, whether you're traveling as adults-only for a “regular” vacation or your honeymoon.

The adult spaces are superb. And to make things extra convenient, the adult dining restaurants and adult district are located in the same general area of the ship. This includes its clubs, lounges, and bars.

The upper deck's adults-only areas on Disney Fantasy also come out on top, with the Quiet Cove's hot tubs nearby and a swim-up bar in the pool. (What adult craving a drink doesn't love that convenience?)

The longer itineraries offered on Disney Fantasy make it ideal for adults looking for a longer getaway. It's hard for traveling parents to take their kids out of school for an extended period of time if it's not a holiday.

If you're looking for a great Rainforest Room to hang out at the spa for a few hours, the Fantasy has one a cut above the classic ships but not as good as the Wish.

If you are cruising with kids and want a happy medium, consider Disney Wish, which offers the best of both worlds: there's a lot to keep kids occupied and checked into childcare while adults break off to have some fun. However, keep in mind that the adult areas on Disney Wish are more spread out, and the pool is smaller and with only one hot tub.

That being said, the Wish also has a great concierge sundeck and lounge if you're interested in booking Concierge-level stateroom, and these perks are an important consideration for you.

💫 DCL Winner for Teenagers

Teenagers love to hang out in groups, make new friends while cruising, and find teenager-centric spots on Disney ships. There wasn't a clear winner here from our Disney Cruise Line experts; they appreciate what Disney Wish, Fantasy, and Dream have to offer this age group.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, FANTASY & DREAM ✨

Disney Wish's air-conditioned “Hero Zone” is great for its indoor games. This includes basketball, ping pong, air hockey, shuffleboard, and foosball. Families can use this area too, but it's especially great for teens. It's not an accident that the Hero Zone is near Vibe on Disney Wish.

Vibe, a teen-exclusive youth club for ages 14 to 17, is on every Disney ship though its design differs across the fleet.

The Wish exclusively has “The Hideaway” for teens and tweens. Yet the other ships – Disney Dream, Fantasy, and Magic – all have Chill, a teens-only spa for ages 13 to 17.

💫 Best DCL Ship for Children

If you're sailing with children ages 3 to 14, which is the best Disney ship? Two of our experts agree that Disney Wish is the winner, while two others agree that other ships have something to offer too.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH (BUT OTHER SHIPS HAVE GREAT PERKS) ✨

Scott (DCL Blog) shares that Disney's Oceaneer Club for ages 3 to 12 are similar across the fleet, though each ship has its own unique twist on a franchise theme: Princess/Fairytale, Marvel, and Star Wars. The Oceaneer Lab, for ages 3 to 12, is currently an option on every ship except Wish.

He shares that two ships have an added feature that's a bonus for children if you sail on Dream or Fantasy: Midship Detective Agency is a game that takes you around to various decks to solve mysteries.

The new Augmented Reality (AR) experience on Wish might change Scott's opinion once it is rolled out, but it's currently unavailable.

Josh and Brittany (Fairtyale Wonders and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) take Scott's notion of The Oceaneer Club and raise it a level to Disney Wish's offering.

They share that the creators of Disney Wish took two decades of Disney Cruise Line experience and guest feedback to create the ultimate onboard Oceaneer Club on Deck 2. There's an entrance for kids to literally slide into the club from the Grand Hall. (So cool! Can adults use the slide too? The answer is yes !)

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo) confirm that they couldn't pry their son away from the new kids club on Disney Wish.

The Edge is available for kids aged 11 through 14. This tween-exclusive is available across the Disney fleet.

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Ship for Infants and Toddlers

The nice thing about little ones from ages 6 months to 3 years is they're not too hard to please. Understandably, parents are likely harder to satisfy! (Infants need to be at least one year old to be checked into “it's a small world” nursery! on Transatlantic, Hawaii, and Panama Canal itineraries.)

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, WONDER & MAGIC ✨

As our DCL experts point out, there's a bit of yin and yang here, with smaller and bigger ships having their own advantages.

That is to say that the smaller ships' sizes (Wonder and Magic) make sailing with little ones a bit more manageable. Getting to and from “it's a small world” nursery! (available on all ships) and the adults-only areas after you drop them off at daycare take less time.

Yet a big ship like Wish has a bigger nursery space (the cruise arguably will have more kids needing daycare on it too). Wish also has a Mickey and Minnie Captain's Deck play area for kids ages 3 to 6, with a Pixar-themed bathroom with smaller toilets and hand driers designed specifically for them.

⭐️ Best DCL Onboard Entertainment: Spas, Shops, Clubs ⭐️

💫 best disney cruise line ship entertainment venues.

We all know that Disney does entertainment best. But which DCL ships come out on top? According to our experts, Fantasy, Dream, and Wonder win.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY FANTASY, DREAM & WONDER ✨

Fantasy and Dream group all of the lounge venues in one area on Deck 4 Aft, which is adults-only come night time. There's a good variety of lounges to boot.

They also have the best entertainment venues, with a balcony inside the Walt Disney Theater, adding to its feeling of grandeur. “The Buena Vista Theater has a classic art deco style and feels big compared to the movie theaters on the other ships,” says Josh and Brittany.

Karen shares some of those sentiments, adding, “Europa or the District on the Fantasy or Dream are great adults-only areas in the evening. I love the atmosphere at Skyline. It feels like having a cocktail with my friends in my own living room.”

Brian and Sam are partial to the Azure lounge, unique to Disney Wonder. They enjoy its great views and atmosphere, which they like better than The Tube (Disney Fantasy) and Evolution (Disney Wonder) lounges on Dream-Class ships.

💫 Best Shows and Recurring Special Events on Disney Cruise Line

The results vary here! To us, this is great news because it means that the huge team of creatives that come together to produce a live stage show are appreciated across the board.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, MAGIC, DREAM & FANTASY ✨

Favorites shows from our DCL experts include:

• Seas the Adventure (musical on Disney Wish)
• Tangled: The Musical (Disney Magic)
• Beauty and the Beast (Disney Dream)
• Frozen (Disney Wonder and Fantasy)

Some of our experts also noted they particularly enjoy Marvel Day at Sea on Disney Magic and the Pirate Parlay Deck Party onboard Disney Wish.

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Ship for Shops and Senses Spa

Five of our six DCL experts agree that Disney Wish has the best spa. (Senses Spa is for guests 18 and older.) It's also the only ship with an outdoor area of the rainforest space, while the Rainforest Room on other ships is indoors only.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY WISH (SPA) ✨

Additionally, Disney Wish's spa features an ice lounge for some cold treatment therapy (which reminds us of the unique rooms Celebrity Cruises has in its spa on their Edge class ships, like a Crystallarium) and has treatment rooms replete with personal whirlpools.

You can also sign up for any number of treatments, from a fire and ice manicure to a bamboo massage. (We had a bamboo massage in the Princess Cruises Lotus Spa and had never heard of it before then – they're awesome if you like a lot of pressure on your muscles!)

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo) note that shopping is best on the Dream Class ships (Dream and Fantasy) but admit that Disney Wish has the most high-end retail.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY DREAM & FANTASY (SHOPPING) ✨

⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Line Activities on Castaway Cay, Best Itineraries, and Best Excursions ⭐️

💫 best activities on castaway cay.

Thousands of people sail on Disney Cruise Line each year, excited to experience Disney Cruise Line's private island, Castaway Cay.

There is plenty to do there, including sailing, laying out on the beach, some shopping, and recreating at the Pelican Plunge water-playground area. What do our DCL experts enjoy most about this fabulous little island?

✨ WINNERS: BBQ at COOKIE'S, CABANA RELAXATION, & SNORKELING ✨

Brittany and Josh love to have BBQ at Cookie's! The barbecue lunch is always a highlight of their Castaway Cay day.

Karen looks forward to relaxing in a cabana. Otherwise, she enjoys indulging in a Konk Kooler on Serenity Bay, an adult beverage made with rum and fruit juice. Cheers to that! (Don't forget to bring your reusable straw to the island to be an eco-conscious cruiser and leave no trace.)

Brian and Sam concur: they love hanging out in a Castaway Cay cabana!

Scott likes to snorkel in the Castaway Cay lagoon. From 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea memorabilia to Mickey and Minnie statuettes, you can find all sorts of Disney treasures underneath the water. You can either rent gear from Gil's Fins and Boats on Castaway Cay to snorkel or bring your own .

💫 Best Excursions Offered by Disney Cruise Line

Speaking of Castaway Cay and snorkeling, three of our DCL experts weighed in on the best excursions offered by Disney Cruise Line.

✨ STANDOUTS: CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES & ACTIVITIES ✨

Scott expanded on his favorite Castaway Cay activity, adding that snorkeling, biking, and tube rentals at Castaway Cay, though not really a port adventure, are great for exploring all aspects of the island in one trip.

Renting a bicycle is a great way to get around the island and reach the observation tower (because otherwise, it's a long walk to get there) while still having time to relax.

Sam and Brian enjoy parasailing on Castaway Cay. Some of their other favorite excursions during their many DCL cruises include Magan’s Bay Beach Break at St. Thomas and the dolphin encounter in Cabo San Lucas.

They are hoping a well-known favorite of other DCL cruisers, the hike to Pulpit Rock in Stavanger, Norway, lives up to the hype when they go this summer!

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Itinerary

Largely influenced by the itineraries our DCL experts have experienced, we asked what their favorite DCL itinerary has been. Naturally, more time on the ship is better, so it's no surprise all our experts' answers included longer itineraries!

✨ WINNER: 11-DAY+ ITINERARIES, VARIOUS LOCATIONS ✨

Karen, Brian, and Sam loved the 11-night Southern Caribbean cruise on Disney Fantasy. Karen sailed in June 2017, while Brian and Sam went in 2019. Scott enjoyed his 11-Night Norwegian Fjords and Iceland Cruise on Disney Magic in June 2015.

Brittany and Josh love the Transatlantic sailings. They have done this itinerary several times and love stopping at the unique ports and spending much more time on the ship with plenty of Days at Sea!

The ports on a Transatlantic vary year to year, but most recently, the itinerary included ports in Portugal and Spain. Up until 2022, all of Disney's Transatlantic cruises were on Disney Magic, but the Disney Dream took over the European summer sailing, including Transatlantics, in 2023.

⭐️ Our DCL Experts Weigh in on Adventures by Disney River Cruises ⭐️

Here at Sometimes Sailing, we adore small ship adventures. River cruises are a favorite of Mikkel and Dan's. We couldn't resist asking our six DCL experts to give us their thoughts on Adventures by Disney River Cruises, a partnership between Disney and AmaWaterways.

➜ We discussed river cruise experiences on DCL Duo, episode 178 , if you want to give it a listen.

Josh and Brittany took an Adventures by Disney river cruise on the Danube River this summer and were wowed.

They admit river cruises are very different from ocean cruises ; while Disney Cruise Line is about the ships and the onboard experiences, a river cruise is about the destinations. The two experiences are completely different.

Karen admits she could write a whole essay on Adventures by Disney cruises. (Luckily, our website has a category for river cruises !) She agrees they are incredible yet very different than DCL. She says they are a fantastic way to see Europe up close.

Perhaps you're like Scott and have thought about booking a river cruise. He says they're very intriguing, and it's a vacation he'll eventually take!

Sam and Brian took the plunge and secured their first river cruise adventure; they go on their first river cruise with their son Nathan next Christmas. (We are SO excited for them to see the incredible Christmas markets in Europe on a river cruise !)

⭐️ Fun Questions for our DCL Experts ⭐️

Our last questions for our DCL experts were more playful in nature. We asked them about their most memorable DCL Special Event experience and their opinion about what would make Disney Cruise Line even  better .

💫 Most Memorable Disney Cruise Line Special Event

Though the special events tend to be once-in-a-lifetime, we asked our DCL experts what their favorite special events have been with DCL. If you're like us, you'll surely have DCL envy reading their answers.

✨ DISNEY WISH PREVIEW, CHRISTENING, & MAIDEN VOYAGE PERFORMANCE FROM JODI BENSON (VOICE OF ARIEL), & DISNEY DREAM INAUGURAL CRUISE ✨

Josh and Brittany have attended some truly memorable Disney Cruise Line firsts. They were able to sail on the Disney Wish Enchanted Showcase Preview Cruise before the ship's Maiden Voyage. As two of the first people to sail on the ship, they said it was amazing to experience a decade of changes that Disney Cruise Line brought to their latest ship.

They toured all the different staterooms (including Wish's Tower Suite and one of its stunning Royal Suites) and were some of the first to preview everything Wish offers. Josh was also on the Disney Dream christening cruise in 2011.

Scott fondly looks back on the Disney Wish Christening in Port Canaveral. Captain Minnie was in attendance, of course!

Brian and Sam loved seeing Jodi Benson perform in the main theater on the Wish Maiden Voyage. She's the voice of Ariel from The Little Mermaid.

Mikkel met Ms. Benson years ago on a DVC cruise (Roy E. Disney was on that cruise, too); she's a sweetheart!

💫 What Would Make Disney Cruise Line Even Better?

No matter how amazing we all think Disney Cruise Line is, there is always room for improvement. Who better to ask than those who know DCL ships best?

✨ BIGGER HOT TUBS, IMPROVED TECHNOLOGY/INTERNET, A SPECIALTY RESTAURANT FOR FAMILIES, ADDITIONAL SMALLER SHIPS (LIKE MAGIC & WONDER) ✨

Sentiments include simple things like accounting for larger hot tubs and improved technology implementation into the cruise experience.

(We couldn't agree more – we never understand why a major company, like Disney, is plagued with tech issues, from the DCL and Walt Disney World websites crashing to interruptions during the Disney Cruise Line Check-in process . It's not uncommon for cruise lines to have buggy apps (like Princess Cruises' MedallionClass app ), and Disney's app is no exception; it doesn't always work onboard.)

Other dreams from our DCL experts to improve Disney Cruise Line are loftier yet not unachievable. A specialty restaurant for families would be wonderful. And another hope is for additional smaller ships, around the size of the Magic and Wonder, to be in DCL's future.

Meet the DCL Experts

We spoke to the best of the best when it comes to DCL cruising. We're so grateful for their expert opinions on our Best Disney Cruise Ship categories above.

Collectively, our DCL expert panelists have been on 100 Disney cruises. We'll repeat that: NINETY-NINE CRUISES ! WHOA.

When you add Dan and me in the mix, the DCL number breaks 100+! (We're in the Gold Castaway Club category for 5+ cruises, not Platinum…yet!)

Our panel of experts mentioned above, includes:

• Josh and Brittany Mitchell, Fairytale Wonders & Wish Upon a Star With Us travel
• Brian Flock and Sam Kanner, DCL Duo
• Karen Shelton, My Path Unwinding
• Scott Sanders, Disney Cruise Line Blog

Find out what makes them Disney Cruises Line experts below.

🪄 Josh and Brittany Mitchell, Fairytale Wonders and Wish Upon a Star With Us

This Disney-loving couple is the blogger team behind the website Fairytale Wonders . They have incredible knowledge of Disney theme parks, resorts, and of course, Disney Cruise Line.

What's more, is that they don't just love DCL – they fell in love on a Disney Cruise too, where they met years ago while sailing with their families. They even got engaged at Disney's Aulani resort in Hawaii!

A personal gush here: I adore them, and we originally met after they contacted me to photograph their DCL wedding in 2019. I've often gone to them for my own Disney questions and advice. And, like the sweethearts they are, they always thoroughly answer and provide valuable insight into things we hadn't thought of.

Josh is also a Disney travel agent at Wish Upon a Star With Us , so be sure to reach out if you need to book a DCL vacation! Josh has been on 25 Disney Cruises (which puts him at the elite and newly created “Pearl” Castaway Club level, higher than Platinum), and Brittany has been on 19.

🪄 Brian Flock and Sam Kanner, DCL Duo

The “duo” behind the podcast is Brian and Sam, who have been podcasting about Disney Cruise Line for years.

We've been fortunate enough to be their podcast guests on several episodes, broadening the horizons of their Disney Cruise Line listeners to educate them on river cruises and even Mikkel's time at Imagineering.

Brian, Sam, and their son, Nathan, have been on 16 cruises, which will quickly reach 25 by next November. (As we write this…they're on a Disney Cruise!)

You'll find their Disney podcast episode archives on their website or your favorite podcast app, as well as links to their DCL vlog entries, blog posts, and even a link to their DCL Duo Etsy shop . They are also to thank for introducing us to Paul Thornton, who writes the Joy of Cruising books .

🪄 Karen Shelton, My Path Unwinding

Karen came into our lives in a wonderful Disney way: through Brian and Sam's DCL Duo podcast!

We loved listening to her Disney Wish review while on Wish's inaugural voyage with DCL Duo. We were in awe when we listened to episode 227, where she describes what it was like to be the first family to stay in the Tower Suite on Disney Wish after winning a travel agent lottery onboard. HOW COOL?!

From how Karen talked about Disney Cruise Line ships, we instantly knew she was an expert. This was confirmed when we reached out, and she shared she's been on 13 DCL cruises.

Karen is another great resource for booking your Disney Cruise Line vacation over at My Path Unwinding Travel ; don't hesitate to reach out!

🪄 Scott Sanders, Disney Cruise Line Blog

This DCL expert has his own podcast, where he talks about his experience on over 31 cruises (that's a whopping 162 nights across DCL's five ships – wow) and interviews others who have Disney experiences of their own.

He also runs the well-known website Disney Cruise Line Blog . Scott was first mentioned on our site back when we put together a list of the best Cruise Podcasts . We've been following along ever since. He doesn't podcast as frequently as DCL Duo, however, his info is always valuable.

His blog is always up to date with the latest DCL news, including casting calls, DCL itinerary news, restaurant reviews, Castaway Cay info, and more. Scott has been interviewed as a DCL expert for countless newspapers and is in the Joy of Cruising as well.

Disney Cruise Line Blog puts together an annual DCL Blog Group Cruise, which is a fantastic vacation to consider if you want to travel with other passionate DCL cruisers.

⭐️ DCL Merchandise & Products for Your Cruise ⭐️

Sure, you can get merch on the ship…but did you know you can get Disney Cruise Line shirts, tumblers, Mickey ears, and such before you sail?

Here are a few places to shop:

• Click here to see the searches for Disney Cruise Line on Etsy . (Artists sell super cute nautical-themed Mickey ears, custom Disney cruise totes, and DCL shirts.)
• We put together this special list of fun Disney Cruise Line items that we recommend, which includes some essentials like the handheld pocket fan we swear by. Also check out our Cruise Essentials list.

If you're not already a member of Amazon Prime, we highly recommend it! Here's a link for a FREE 30-day Amazon Prime trial , where you can enjoy free two-day shipping, free Kindle books, special discounts on products, and more.

Also, just a note that we bring along a pocket hotspot when we cruise to connect in ports. It won't work if you're in the middle of the ocean, but it works in most major ports and costs way less than Disney Cruise Line's Wi-Fi packages .

We travel with a Solis hotspot we travel with, and this explains why we love it . Use code “SOMETIMESHOME” to save 10%!

⭐️ In Conclusion: Disney Cruise Ships Ranked and The Best DCL Has to Offer ⭐️

It was so much fun to ask experts who have made careers out of their passion for Disney Cruise Line these questions and get their input on what makes all aspects of Disney Cruise Line “the best.”

Whether you're watching Disney's amazing Broadway-quality shows, riding the AquaDuck at night or relaxing in the spa Rainforest Room (some of their favorite things to do) there is no doubt you'll have a blast on your Disney Cruise Line vacation no matter what ship or itinerary you choose.

Do you have a favorite Disney Cruise Line ship or experience? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Don't forget to sign up for our free printable to help you choose what Disney Cruise Line ship is best for you based on the winners in this post.

Love Disney Cruises? Read this next:

• Disney Cruise Line Check-in Process Online: Everything to Know
• Anti-Nausea Medication and Other Cruise Sea Sickness Solutions 

Disney Wish Design Details Guests Will Gush Over on DCL

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Which is the best Disney cruise? 6 ships ranked

Water slides, dance parties and firework displays are all included when mickey & co take to the high seas.

I knew a Disney cruise would be unlike any other the moment I first stepped onto the ship in Port Canaveral, Florida. Mickey and Minnie Mouse waved us on board as the ship’s horn blasted the first seven notes of When You Wish Upon a Star , signalling our departure. With themed dining, characters at every turn and extensive entertainment on offer, Disney Cruise Line brings all the magic of its theme parks to the sea. The fleet now includes five ships — with a sixth due in late 2024 — offering itineraries across the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska and Australia, including several that call at Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. Here is your guide to each ship to help choose the right one for your family.

1. Disney Wish

Best for fans of Frozen Launched in 2022, Disney’s newest ship has modernised the cruise line with its swish top-level suites themed on princess movies and immersive dining experiences. There is also a thrilling ride through 230m of winding tubes that culminates with a splash into a lazy river. The ship is also a must-book for any devoted fans of Elsa as it includes the world’s first Frozen -themed theatrical dining experience featuring musical performances, special effects and interactions with the film’s characters. Disney Wish is also the only ship to offer under-12s the chance to share a picnic with Olaf and his Frozen friends, while the on-board kids’ club hosts even more Frozen -themed games in specially designed rooms. Those less keen on princesses won’t miss out. Guests can dine alongside Ant-Man and the Wasp at the Avengers: Quantum Core restaurant, watch new films in two cinemas or cool off in ten pools and water play areas inspired by Mickey and friends.

disneyholidays.co.uk

2. Disney Wonder

Best for Alaskan sailings Fancy spotting glaciers, whales and forests rather than white-sand beaches and palm trees? Then you’ll love Disney Wonder, which offers Alaskan itineraries throughout the summer and was also Disney Cruise Line’s first ship to sail in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. Ships sail from Vancouver and cruise along the Stikine Icecap against a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains, waterfalls and glaciers before dropping anchor in ports including Ketchikan and Alaska’s state capital Juneau. The ship itself is a little smaller than most of the fleet — carrying up to 2,713 passengers rather than 4,000 — making it a little less overwhelming for first-time cruisers. It has all the usual DCL touches though, including handy rotational dining which ensures every guest is automatically allocated a spot in each of three themed dining venues on board so no one misses out. You’ll even have the same waiting staff each night. Reservations include Disney Wonder’s two exclusive restaurants, Triton for French fine dining and the lively Tiana’s Palace with its live jazz music, Creole dishes and characters from The Princess and the Frog .

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3. disney fantasy.

Best for longer Caribbean itineraries Disney Cruise Line is known for its handy three-night itineraries in the Caribbean and Bahamas, ideal if you’re trying cruising for the first time with kids or relaxing after Florida’s theme parks. If a little more R&R is needed, opt for a sailing on the Disney Fantasy which offers five, six, seven and ten-night Caribbean cruises for extended relaxation. Fancy a little more excitement? Optional shore excursions include all-terrain buggy rides in Cozumel, Mexico; ziplining in Antigua; and even flyboarding in St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands. All itineraries also call at Disney’s own private island, Castaway Cay in the Bahamas, with its white-sand beach, water sports, snorkelling lagoon with underwater Disney trail and character appearances (in beach gear, naturally). Tear yourself away from the sunlounger if you can and hire a bike — the flat, easy cycle path winds through the jungle to a lookout tower for panoramic views of the Caribbean and your ship in the distance.

4. Disney Magic

Best for first-time cruisers Mammoth cruise ships can be intimidating even for regular cruisers. DCL’s first-ever ship, the Disney Magic, is hardly small by anyone’s reckoning but, like the Disney Wonder, carries 2,713 passengers compared to 4,000 on others in the fleet. There may be fewer decks to navigate but Disney Magic still has plenty the other ships don’t, including one of the cruise line’s best water slides, AquaDunk, where the floor disappears to reveal an exhilarating near-vertical three-storey drop. Just be aware that children need to be at least 1.22m (4ft) to ride, though there is a second gentler slide to keep everyone happy. Elsewhere on Disney Magic, princess fans will be thrilled to watch an exclusive performance of Tangled: The Musical at the on-board theatre before dining at Rapunzel’s Royal Table with its character appearances, musical performances and elaborate desserts including birthday cupcake sundae and Gothel black forest tower.

5. Disney Treasure

Best for future planning Be one of the first to sail on Disney Cruise Line’s new ship by booking ahead for December 2024, when Disney Treasure will set sail on seven-night Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral. The 15-deck ship will feature a Broadway-style musical based on the blockbuster Moana , a water-coaster and a theatrical Coco -themed dining experience featuring mariachi musicians and characters from the film. Adults won’t be left out either. They can try cocktails at a lounge inspired by Disney’s Jungle Cruise attraction, visit a pub serving craft beers based on 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea or even brave the Haunted Mansion Parlor, a “haunted” bar at sea. Staterooms available include lavish suites, inspired by The Lion King and Finding Nemo , with forward-facing views and one palatial option perched high in the ship’s forward funnel with a private elevator, spiral staircase and library.

6. Disney Dream

Best for European sailings There’s no longer any need to endure a long-haul flight to set sail with Mickey. Disney Dream launched European itineraries in summer 2023, with voyages from Civitavecchia (Rome), Barcelona and Southampton. Destinations along the way include the medieval port of La Rochelle in France, the fjord-flanked fishing town of Alesund in Norway, and the hip Spanish city of Bilbao with its tiny pintxos bars, walkable old town and Guggenheim Museum. Back on board, there’s plenty to entertain the family including an elaborate sweet shop, Goofy-themed mini-golf, basketball courts and a poolside big screen showing Disney films all day. Mini-Disney lovers get nearly an entire deck of dedicated children’s space to roam, including a vast kids’ club where Star Wars fans can pilot a life-sized Millennium Falcon and a beauty salon for makeovers to transform children into princesses and knights. But it’s the AquaDuck water-coaster that’s the biggest draw, as riders are whizzed down a four-deck drop and 13ft off the side of the ship on an inflatable raft.

• Best luxury cruise lines for 2024 • Best all-inclusive cruises

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U.S. News & World Report Releases the 2022 Best Cruises with Disney Cruise Line Earning Top Billing for Families and Caribbean Sailings

U.S. News & World Report released their 2022 Best Cruise Lines Rankings. The global authority in rankings and consumer advice evaluated 162 ships from 17 top cruise lines across a variety of categories. The rankings help travelers select the best cruise by brand, region, traveler type and budget.

Disney Cruise Line remains at the top of the list for Best Cruise Line for Families, a spot held since U.S. News began ranking cruise lines. Additionally, for the eight consecutive year, Disney is also the top Best Cruise Line in the Caribbean.

“We’re honored that U.S. News & World Report has recognized us with these two awards for eight consecutive years, and are so proud of our amazing cast and crew members who make awards like this possible.” Mari Mendez, External Communications Manager

U.S. News surveyed travelers to understand the effects of COVID-19 on cruiser sentiments and found that cruisers – both first-time and longtime – are booked at higher levels than before the pandemic. U.S. News survey data also revealed that of the frequent travelers who indicated that they would cruise again, 20% are already signed up for their next sailing. 

“Though most avenues of travel have been impacted throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the cruise industry has seen the most challenges” Nicola Wood, travel editor at U.S. News

Overall, Disney Cruise Line’s ships maintained a respectable ranking. Out of the 162 ships ranked , the Disney Fantasy is in a tie for 8th place with 5 other ships. The Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, and and Disney Dream are all tied with 11 other ships for the 14th spot.

Each ship is scored by experts, travelers, and given a health rating based on the survey’s methodology . Below are the scores for each of the Disney Cruise Line ships along with the cruise line’s overall score on a 5-point scale.

2022 U.S. News Best Cruise Lines Rankings

For Families

• Disney Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean International
• Carnival Cruise Line

In the Caribbean

• Celebrity Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Line

For the Money

• Holland America Line
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For Couples

In the Mediterranean

2022 U.S. News Best Disney Cruise Line Ship Rankings

Below is a summary of the categories each of the Disney Cruise ships ranked.

Disney Magic

• #2 in Best Disney Cruise Line
• #3 in Best Cruises for Families
• #8 in Best Cruises to the Caribbean
• #8 in Best Cruises to the Mediterranean
• #9 in Best Cruises to Europe

Disney Wonder

• #1 in Best Cruises to Mexico
• #3 in Best Cruises to Alaska

Disney Dream

Disney Fantasy

• #1 in Best Disney Cruise Line
• #2 in Best Cruises for Families
• #5 in Best Cruises to the Caribbean

Check out the complete rankings for Best Cruise Lines rankings on U.S. News & World Report’s dedicated Cruise ranking webpage and for more survey information here .

The methodology for the Best Cruise Lines rankings factors in expert evaluations of cruise ship quality, reputation among travelers, results from health assessments conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other factors such as price class and itinerary offerings.

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Disney Cruise Ships: Ranking Best to Worst

A ny Disney Cruise ship is a great one. But, that doesn’t mean we don’t have our favorites. Because, of course we do. Since we’ve sailed on all five current Disney ships , we thought it would be fun to rank from them our least favorite to our most favorite. Read on for our ranking of Disney Cruise Line ships from worst to best!

Ranking Disney Cruise Line Ships

Let’s start by saying, this was no easy task. And, it’s something that can really change with our moods. All of the Disney Ships are great, we just feel like some are a little better than others. This is totally a matter of preference, of course. But here’s how Disney Cruise Line’s ship ranked in our ship showdown. 

#5 Worst: Disney Wish

That’s right. Disney’s newest cruise ship, the Disney Wish is our least favorite of the current fleet. Don’t get us wrong, it’s a beautiful ship. And the addition of Festival of Foods is something we would love to see come to the other ships at some point. And though we loved the new restaurant 1923 onboard the Disney Wish , Worlds of Marvel felt weird and lackluster to us in terms of Disney’s other themed dining experiences. Arendelle, the Disney Wish’s other themed dining experience was a lot of fun for us. But we’ve also found this one to be all over the place in terms of other guest reviews.

But with no real “theme” (sorry guys, Enchantment is not a real theme) and driving art style, it feels like its beauty is something that could age very quickly. We love the timeless feel of the other four ships, and the Wish just doesn’t have it. Along with that, the layout is just not good. We talk about this in full in our Disney Wish Cruise Review ,  and have found that most die-hard Disney Cruise fans who have been sailing for years agree. 

The layout is confusing. The dismantling of deck 4 was completely unnecessary and some of the placement of Disney IP just feels generic. And hey, it was designed by someone who happily claims she never had cruised before designing this ship. So while it does make it more understandable that some of the decisions were made, it doesn’t make them any less unforgivable. Sorry Wish fans. This one is just not our favorite. 

That being said, many people love the Disney Wish. We just aren’t those people.

#4: Disney Dream

The Disney Dream is a gorgeous ship. The design is beautiful. We love the layout and walking into the atrium underneath the beautiful chandelier feels like a dream come true.. But there is something about the Disney Dream that always makes it feel crowded. It’s a strange thing actually because the Disney Dream’s sister ship, the Disney Fantasy, rarely feels crowded in comparison. 

In addition to the weird, crowded situation on the Disney Dream, the main dining room restaurants are also some of the least exciting. And oddly, the food always seems to lack a bit in quality comparatively. Now, you could say that it’s a one off phenomenon, however we’ve sailed the Disney Dream a few times, in different parts of the world even, and we always notice this trend. And even when talking to friends who have sailed the Disney Dream multiple times, they say the same thing. Now to be clear, the food isn’t bad. It’s just not as good as the other ships from what we and other passengers have experienced in the last few years. 

The Disney Dream is home to Marvel at Sea, which is a fun themed cruise perfect for any Marvel fan. 

#3: Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder generally sails the Pacific Coast and Alaska. And now for 2023, has headed to Australia and New Zealand for the first time ever. So guests who tend to sail solely the Caribbean or on the East Coast generally don’t have a chance to experience this lovely ship. One of the two smaller ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, the Disney Wonder is big enough to feel spread out, while feeling small enough that it feels warm and inviting. 

The theming on this ship is fantastic as well. The design feels classic and timeless. Sure, it doesn’t have the most grand atrium. But the storytelling that this ship offers is a perfect example of what Disney Imagineers excel at: storytelling.  From the carpet and chandelier representing Ariel’s tail and flower in her hair, to the French Quarter lounge leading you into Tiana’s Place , the elements of storytelling here are fantastic.

And speaking of Tiana’s Place , fans of Princess and The Frog are sure to love this themed restaurant for dinner. The Disney Wonder is also home to the Triton’s and a fun black and white version of Animator’s Palate, which hosts the fun Animation Magic Show and a visit from Sorcerer Mickey. 

#2: Disney Magic 

Another smaller ship, the Disney Magic takes our number 2 spot. Sister ship to the Disney Wonder, the Disney Magic is the art deco version in this ship class.  This ship is even less grand than the Disney Wonder and many people are often surprised to find it is at the top of my Disney Cruise ranking list.  But because it’s so unassuming, it just feels cozy. And if you’re a Tangled fan, then this ship should not be missed.

One of the reasons it lands the #2 spot for me is because of the Tangled restaurant, Rapunzel’s Royal Table . Not only is the food here creative and delicious, but the entertainment is amazing as well.  It could be said that it’s just a matter of preference especially when compared to Tiana’s Place, and that’s true. However, Tiana’s Place also has some weird acoustics in the restaurant that can make that party feel a little too loud for dinner. It’s something that’s often brought up by guests and though we love the show at Tiana’s, the vibe (and acoustics) in Rapunzel’s is a little more chill and relaxing.  Add in the fact that the Disney Magic is also home to the Tangled Broadway show, and this ship is pure gold for Tangled fans. 

Now if you’re not as much of a Tangled fan as I am, this ship still has plenty to offer. Lumiere’s here is stunning for Beauty and the Beast fans. And Animator’s Palate here also hosts the Animation Magic show as well, which is always a treat. And again, an appearance from Sorcerer Mickey!

This ship also feels smoother on the seas than the Disney Wonder does. We originally sailed the Disney Wonder many years ago in the Caribbean and again on a Disney cruise to Alaska. So we have some decent experiences to compare.  And even though the Disney Magic is the oldest ship in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet, it’s been really well maintained over the years. 

#1 Best: Disney Fantasy

Ahh the Disney Fantasy. What can we say, we just love this ship. Though its sister ship the Disney Dream ranked at #4 for us, the Disney Fantasy just feels more elevated and luxurious. The attention to detail is fantastic. The colors are stunning and you really feel like you’re about to set off on a grand voyage. 

The Europa section of the Disney Fantasy that features bars and lounges, is such a unique theme and is so well done. Though the entire ship can’t be applauded for one section of the ship, this area really showcases the immersive storytelling that Disney does so well. With lounges themed to different countries in Europe, Europa is located on Deck 4.  The Disney Fantasy also houses Meridian, which in our opinion, is the best lounge on any Disney Cruise ship. You can also find this lounge on the Disney Dream as well. Guests can enjoy both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages inspired by different parts of the world. And the outside area has some of the best views on the ship. 

In addition to that, the Disney Fantasy also has mini golf on Deck 13 and the Midship Detective Agency , which adds a bit of free fun to your Sea Days. 

Have you sailed all 5 of the Disney Cruise ships? How would you rank them? We’d love to know where each of the Disney Cruise ships ranks for you!

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Jones Family Travels

Best Disney Cruise Ships

By Tim Jones 2 Comments

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a qualifying purchase, I will receive a small commission from those purchases.

Our family loves to cruise! One of our favorite cruise lines is Disney Cruise Line. We have been on over 30+ Disney Cruises, so we do cruise on Disney a lot. 

We are always asked, “what are the best Disney Cruise ships?” 

Ranking the Best Disney Cruise Ships

We are going to rank the Disney Cruise ships from the worst to the best.

We only focus our ranking on the ship amenities and which Disney Cruise ship is the best. We are not focusing on cruise itineraries.

The Disney Cruise Ships do sail around the world, leaving ports of call including New York City, Port Canaveral, San Juan, San Diego, Galveston, Barcelona, and more. Not all cruise ships sail to all destinations. This is something to keep in mind when picking the best Disney Cruise ship for your family vacation. 

If you are traveling to the Bahamas, you may have the option of cruising on the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, or the Disney Magic. However, if you are cruising to Alaska, you will only have the option of the Disney Wonder. 

This is something to keep in mind when planning your Disney Cruise vacation. For now, let’s dive into our list of the best Disney Cruise ships.

#4 Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is one of the newest Disney Cruise ships. It is huge with over 4,000 guests! It is an amazing ship, but can often feel a little too big. However, there is a lot to love about the Disney Fantasy. Here are some of our favorites on board the Disney Fantasy.

The Aqua Duck water coaster is amazing! The entire family just loves this water roller coaster. The whole tube slide is clear, so you can look down at the pool or ship. If you are in a port of call, you can get an amazing view of the city or island.

This water slide is even more fun during the Pirate Night festivities. You can look down below at all of the Pirate Night activities on the pool deck.

The Aqua Duck is on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream ships.

Larger Atrium

The are a lot of characters and shows in the atrium area. We love the atrium on the Disney Fantasy. You have a lot of space in the atrium and you have an incredible view on higher decks. Having a spacious atrium makes the character meet and greets more enjoyable. You do not feel as crowded on the Disney Fantasy.

Midship Detective Agency

The kids love the Midship Detective Agency. This game takes you throughout the Disney Fantasy. This mystery takes you to art pieces throughout the ship. Some of the art pieces will come to life. You will use these art pieces to solve crimes. There are two different games, including Muppets and 101 Dalmatians.

This “who did it” mystery will take you across the ship and on different decks. The art comes to life, as you try to solve the mystery.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique/Pirate League

All of the Disney Cruise Ships have the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. During an experience at Bibbibi Bobbidi Boutique, you can transform into a princess or prince. On Pirate Night, you can turn into a Pirate or even a mermaid.

Edge and Vibe

We love the Children Programming on the Dinsey Cruise Ships. The kids love Edge (for tweens) and Vibe (for teens.) On the Disney Fantasy, these teen areas are amazing!

Vibe has their own sundeck and pool. This is the ultimate areas for tweens and teens. There is even special Open House experiences, so the whole family can check out these fun areas.

The Disney Fantasy does have a lot of amazing amenities. All of the other Disney Cruise ships have been through magical enhancements (ship updates). With these in mind, we think the other Disney Cruise ships are better than the Disney Fantasy. This is why the Disney Fantasy got the #4 spot of the best Disney Cruise ships.

#3 Disney Magic

Number three on our list of best Disney Cruise Ships is the Disney Magic. This older cruise ship accommodates around 2,400 guests. Tim and I love that it is a smaller ships. It makes it easier to get around and not as crowded. Here are some other reasons why we love the Disney Magic.

Tangled the Musical & Snuggly Duckling

The Disney Magic has a newer Broadway style show called Tangled the Musical. This show is incredible for Tangled Fans, young and old. After the show, the Tangled fun continues with the Snuggly Duckling bar with games, music, food, and fun from some funny characters. Then it continues with a special themed dinner. It is a lot of fun!

The Disney Magic is the only Disney Cruise ship with the Aqua Dunk. Get ready for a big thrill! You stand with your arms and legs crossed. You then wait for the floor to open up underneath you.

You are whisked away in a clear waterslide zooming around the ship. This is one of Tim’s favorite rides on the Disney Cruise ships.

The Aqua Dunk gets popular, so we recommend hitting this waterslide when you are in ports of call like Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island) or Nassau in the Bahamas.

#2 Disney Wonder

Our 2nd favorite Disney Cruise ship is the Disney Wonder. The Disney Wonder recently went through a magical enhancement and is amazing.

We love the updates to the Disney Wonder. Our favorite restaurant on board any Disney Cruise ship is on board the Disney Wonder . . .

Tiana’s Place

Frozen Adventures in the Children Programming

During the dry dock, the Disney Wonder got a new addition in the Oceaneer Club (kids club). They now have a section called Frozen Adventures. This fun area is themed after Frozen and even includes a few friends.

Frozen, A Musical Spectacular 

To continue the Frozen theming, the Disney Wonder has a new show called Frozen, A Musical Spectacular. This show truly is spectacular.

One of our favorite parts of the show is when it snows in the theater . . . yes, actual show in the islands!

With these newer additions and the smaller size of the Disney Wonder, we rank this ship as our 2nd favorite among the Disney Cruise fleet.

#1 Disney Dream

The best Disney Cruise Ship is the Disney Dream. This cruise ship is a sister ship to Disney Fantasy.

It may be the same size as the Disney Fantasy, but this ship has even better amenities. It has had a few more magical enhancements to make it even more amazing!

Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats

Do you like Wreck it Ralph? You will love this sweet shop. You can enjoy sweet treats, candy, ice cream, and gelato. This is such a fun addition to the Disney Dream.

There is a small fee for these items, so keep that in mind during your cruise.

Oceaneer’s Club & Lab with Star Wars Millennium Falcon

The kids love the Millennium Falcon in the Oceaneer’s Club, but Tim and I do, too. Throughout the Disney Cruise vacation, they offer Open Houses. This is the opportunity for the whole family to explore the Oceaneer Lab and Club. We all love sitting in Han Solo’s seat and driving the Millennium Falcon!

Beauty and the Beast Show

Disney recently hosted the opening of the Beauty and the Beast Show. This show is simply amazing! The technology and set design alone is just spectacular. You will love all of the Disney characters in this show, too. I am a huge fan of the original Beauty and the Beast movie. I am glad this new show is just as amazing!

Our entire family agrees that the Disney Dream is the #1 ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. 

New Disney Wish

We have some exciting news to come for Disney Cruise Line. In July 2022, the Disney Wish sets sail from Port Canaveral (near Disney World). This new ship looks amazing! We share the top 9 things we love about the Disney Wish.

We hope this helps you pick the best Disney Ships for your family cruise. Be sure you check out these 105 Disney Cruise tips with tons of insider tips and hacks before you set sail on your next cruise.

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Which is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

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If you are thinking of sailing on a Disney cruise you may be asking which is the best Disney cruise ship?

There are four Disney cruise ships at sea right now – with another three being built.

However, is one Disney cruise ship better than the others? How do you compare Disney cruise ships?

Which Is The Best Disney Cruise Ship?

First, let’s take a look at the different Disney cruise ships.

The Classic Disney Cruise Ships

The Disney Magic was the first ship to be launched in 1998. The Magic’s sister ship, the Disney Wonder was launched a year later in 1999.

The two “classic Disney ships” are basically the same design. The Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder are the smallest cruise ships in the fleet.

Huge List of Disney Cruise Tips

The Disney Dream Class Ships

The newest Disney cruise ships are 40% larger than the Disney classic ships. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are 1,147 feet long. They can carry a maximum of 4,000 passengers at full capacity and have 1458 crew members.

These are known as the Disney Dream Class Ships.

To put this in perspective it is often quoted that these ships are longer (or taller) than the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

The Disney Dream was launched in 2011 and the Disney Fantasy followed in 2012.

Disney Triton Class Ships

There are 3 more Disney ships on the horizon. The Disney Wish is due to be launched in 2022. The next two ships don’t yet have scheduled launch dates.

These are known as the Triton Class ships.

We now know some things about the new Disney Wish. You can follow the Disney Wish Construction with us. WE constantly update all the information about the details of the new Disney Ship as they are announced.

The Disney Fantasy-class ships are 130,000 gross tons and the new ships will be 140,000.

However, we know that the new Disney ships will only have the same amount of staterooms at 1,250 as the Fantasy and Dream. Therefore it seems that there will be more room for the entertainment spaces on the Triton Class ships.

We would guess that the majority will be balcony staterooms on the new Disney cruise ships.

It’s a pretty good bet that the new Disney ships will have the virtual portholes in the inside staterooms as well. Another highly likely feature of the new Disney cruise ships is that there will be an expanded concierge class.

Disney Cruise Ship Staterooms To Avoid

Photo by Disney – Artist Concept

This is a very exciting time for Disney cruise lines. Not only will there soon be 3 new ships, but there will also be a brand new Disney private island location.

Will the new ships be the best Disney cruise ships? Anything which we say now will of course just be speculation. However, we are sure that the new Disney cruise ships will be amazing!

If you want to know more about the new Disney cruise ships we have all the information you need here .

What is the Difference Between the Classic and the Newer Disney Dream Ships?

The really obvious answer to this is their size. There is a lot of difference if you compare the Disney Cruise Ships.

If you want a smaller Disney cruise ship which is easier to get around and also to get to know, you will be happier on the classic ships.

If you want more facilities and don’t mind the fact that there are more people, the newer Disney ships are the best.

However, it really isn’t that simple. There are many other things to consider when you ask yourself which is the best Disney cruise ship.

What is Basically the Same About All of the Disney Ships?

Before going into what is different about each of the Disney cruise ships, let’s think about what really is the same.

The level of service is exceptional on all of the Disney ships. It is always very difficult to explain just how above and beyond most of the Disney crew go to give exceptional service to their guests.

You have to experience the Disney difference to believe it. I have witnessed this first hand so many times. The Cast Members go the extra mile and welcome you like family.

Most recently I was on the Disney Wonder and was in Triton’s, one of the main rotational dining restaurants, having lunch.

I heard a shout of pure joy as a server recognized a family from a previous cruise. She ran over and greeted that family as if they were long-lost cousins.

That’s the Disney difference that you just can’t explain unless you see it. That kind of experience is genuine and is what Disney is all about.

There are other things that are just the same on all of the Disney ships. The large staterooms, most of which have the split bath. The excellent children’s programs. The adult spaces. The Disney rotational dining . Broadway-quality entertainment.

However, there are very distinct differences between each ship. Which Disney cruise ship that you think is the best for you and your family, will depend on other factors.

If you have children of a certain age you will want to look at our Best Disney Cruise Ship for Toddlers Guide. 

Let’s think about the things which are going to influence your choice of Disney cruise ship. When you are deciding which is the best Disney cruise ship you are going to look at a number of factors.

Disney Cruise Ship Itinerary

This really is going to be a big deciding factor when you look at which Disney cruise ship is the best for your vacation.

All of the Disney cruise ships sail very distinct itineraries from different home cruise ports.

If you want to sail the Caribbean on a Disney cruise ship you will find that the most convenient itineraries are on the Disney Fantasy. She sails mostly 7 night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries – all out of Port Canaveral Florida .

However, if you want a 3 or 4 night sailing on a Disney cruise then the Disney Dream is going to be your best choice. The Disney Dream sails mostly 3 and 4-night itineraries to The Bahamas from Port Canaveral Florida.

The Disney Dream can be an excellent first Disney cruise. The prices are obviously going to be lower than a full 7 night on the Disney Fantasy.

The Disney Dream also has a big advantage that all sailings will make a port stop a Disney’s private island Castaway Cay. For many Disney cruisers, the day at Castaway Cay is the highlight of their vacation. Here you can get a  complete guide to Disney’s Castaway Cay.

Both the Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic have more varied itineraries than the larger Disney ships. This might be the decider for you when you are thinking about which is the best Disney cruise ship. Itinerary may be the most important thing.

The Disney Wonder sails from Port Canaveral, Galveston, San Diego , and Vancouver. If you are looking for a more diverse itinerary then you really should consider the Disney Wonder.

One of the most spectacular of the Disney Wonder itineraries are the cruises to Alaska. Here you can browse the Disney Cruises to Alaska .

The Disney Wonder also sails through the Panama Canal twice a year. If we had to pick our very favorite Disney cruise it would be the Panama Canal cruises. Each cruise is for at least 14 nights, so is ideal for people who have more time to spare on a vacation.

There is nothing quite like the sight of the Disney Wonder sailing through the Panama Canal. The 14-night break gives you so much time to relax.

These cruises also tend to include extra features such as chances to look behind the scenes at the galley and the theater. There are usually not so many children on these cruises either.

The Disney Wonder now sails from San Diego on cruises to the Mexican Riviera. They range from 2,3,4,5 and 7-night cruises so there really is something for everyone. If you are based on the West Coast these Disney San Diego cruises are a great idea.

The Disney Wonder will sail from New Orleans for the first time in 2020.

The Disney Magic also has a number of different itineraries. You are sure to be able to find a Disney Magic sailing that suits you. In the summer months the Disney Magic sails in Europe.

These cruises vary from Southern European cruises from Barcelona to Northern European cruises as well as cruises around the British Isles from Dover England .

The Disney Magic has a Transatlantic sailing twice a year. This cruise offers great value for money for people with some flexibility and time to spend on this longer cruise.

The Disney Magic also has some sailings from New York and Miami. This is perfect for cruisers for whom Port Canaveral is not their first choice. Most of these cruises also have a port stop in Castaway Cay.

Disney Cruise Theme Sailings

Disney Cruise lines also offer a number of differently themed sailings.

One of the most popular is the Star Wars Days at Sea. If you are a Star Wars fan you really should think about booking one of the Star Wars special cruises.

For more details about what to expect you can see our guide here .

The Disney Magic has Marvel Days at Sea on select dates.

If Star Wars or Marvel is not your thing then you may want to enjoy one of the seasonal cruises such as the Halloween on the High Seas Cruises or a Very Merrytime Cruise.

Other Differences on The Disney Cruise Ships

Which is the best Disney cruise ship is always going to depend on so many factors which only you can answer. However, there are some other things which may help you make up your mind about which Disney cruise is best for you and your family.

Each Disney ship has different entertainment. All of the Disney cruise ships have amazing nighttime entertainment. However, all have different shows.

If your Disney Princess is a particular fan of Princess Anna and Queen Elsa then you may want to pick the Disney Wonder.

All the cruise ships will have personal appearances by the Anna and Elsa, but only Disney Wonder and Disney Fantasy (from Fall 2019) has Frozen, A Musical Spectacular.

The Disney Wonder also has Tiana’s restaurant.

If your favorite movie is Tangled then you may want to consider the Disney Magic. They are the only ship to have Tangled the Musical on board. The Disney Magic is also the only ship to have Rapunzel’s Royal Table restaurant.

If I had to choose a ship that has the best entertainment I would always say the Disney Wonder as it has Frozen and The Golden Mickeys.

I do also enjoy Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular on the Disney Fantasy. However, for me, the Disney Wonder wins on the stage show entertainment right now.

If you want to ride the AqauDuck then you have to sail on the newest ships of the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy. The classic Disney Wonder and Magic really do not have anything to compare with this.

The Disney Magic has the AquaDunk but this is not really a comparison. The Disney Wonder had a fabulous re-imagination recently but if you want an AquaDuck equivalent you just don’t get it here.

If the finest dining at sea is important to you then you need to choose the Disney Fantasy or the Disney Dream as they are the only ships to have Remy. This is one of the finest dining experiences at sea.

Palo is on all of the ships and is our preference, but if you want to experience what many think is the best of the best then you have to sail on one of the larger ships.

If you are thinking of booking Disney Cruise Concierge we would also say that the better choices are the newer ships of the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy.

The classic Disney Wonder and Magic ships have been re-imagined to accommodate a new concierge lounge. However, the Fantasy and Dream were purpose-built with concierge guests in mind. The Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream have a fabulous outside pool deck.

All the ships have the concierge lounge now but we think that the very best are on the Disney Dream and Fantasy. The only benefit of the Wonder and the Magic is that there are fewer concierge staterooms so it seems to be more of an exclusive benefit. You will get more individual attention, but it is pretty amazing on all the ships.

If you want an inside stateroom with the Virtual Porthole you do have to sail on the Disney Dream or the Fantasy.

Apparently, it was too much of a technological difficulty to refit the Magic and Wonder with the virtual portholes. We think they are a nice touch, but this really should be a minor reason to sail on the newer ships.

As you will see the answer to the question about which is the best Disney cruise ship really is going to vary according to what you and your family want.

We love all the Disney cruise ships, but if we had to decide we would say the Disney Wonder.

Is this because the Disney Wonder was our first Disney cruise and we have spent more time sailing on her than any other ships? Possibly. But you have to decide what is best for your family.

All of the Disney cruise ships offer an amazing experience which really doesn’t have any comparison.

Our advice? Look at the itinerary first and then choose the ship. Whichever of the Disney ships you choose you will have an amazing time. There really isn’t an answer as to which is the best Disney cruise ship. They are all amazing.

Whichever you sail on you will probably think is the best Disney cruise ship!

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Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

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Comparing the Disney Cruise Ships

Posted on Published: 10/19/2023

Disney cruises are popular for many reasons – for their family-friendly amenities, attention to detail, and commitment to providing family magic.

If you are a regular reader here, you know that I’m an avid cruiser on the Disney Cruise Line. After three sailings on the Disney Fantasy , one on the Disney Wonder , seven on the Disney Dream , and one on the Disney Magic , I’ve had the chance to experience Disney’s newest ship – the Disney Wish , twice. If you are considering a trip on the Disney Cruise Line, you may be wondering what is the best Disney Cruise Line ship for your family vacation.

It’s difficult to answer that without looking at the various itineraries as well as comparing the sizes, restaurants, amenities, and more on the Disney Cruise ships. Here are our comparisons.

Disclosure: I’ve been on one complimentary media preview cruise as well as two cruises as part of Disney Social Media Moms. The rest of my cruises were at my own cost. All opinions are my own.

Check prices of Disney Cruise Line Sailings here .

Itineraries on the Disney Cruise Ships

Before deciding which ship to sail on, you’ll definitely want to look at the various itineraries offered. After all, a Mediterranean cruise is much, much different than an Alaskan cruise. Itinerary and ports of call really should be your first consideration when deciding which ship on the Disney Cruise Line fleet you’ll want to sail on.

The Disney Fantasy always leaves from the Port Canaveral cruise port and sails on seven-day itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Ports include Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Jamaica, the US Virgin Islands, and of course, Castaway Cay .

The Fantasy’s sister ship, the Disney Dream, used to leave from Port Canaveral but now departs from Miami for part of the year. The Dream also has sailings from Fort Lauderdale, San Juan, New York, and Europe.

The other two ships, the Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic have typically traveled around a bit more. Itineraries (especially in the winter) change year by year, but the Wonder typically goes to Alaska, while the Magic has itineraries departing from San Diego, Miami, Galveston, New Orleans, and San Juan.

Miami cruise port to Castaway Cay and Key West . That itinerary was so much fun, and the four-day trip was the perfect amount of time for our girls’ trip.

Once you look at the itineraries, you’ll definitely have a good idea of which Disney Cruise Line ship you’ll want to be on, especially if you plan to travel on an itinerary that only one ship offers.

Size of the Disney Cruise Ships

There are currently three different classes of Disney Cruise Ships. The original ships, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are called the Magic class and are smaller. These ships accommodate a maximum of 2,700 passengers.

The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are the Dream class ships, which accommodate a maximum of 4,000 passengers. The new Triton Class ships (the Disney Wish) also accommodate 4,000 but are a bit bigger in Gross Tonnage.

The smaller ships definitely do feel more intimate but don’t have as many amenities.

Restaurants on the Disney Cruise Ships

While all of the dining rooms on the Disney Cruise Line are fun and offer lots of delicious food options, they do vary by ship. Animator’s Palate, as well as the premium, adult-only Palo, are offered on all original four ships.

Each of the original four ships has a French-themed restaurant, although the names and themes are different. There are also three incredibly fun-themed restaurants – Tiana’s Place on the Disney Wonder , Arendelle on the Disney Wish, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table on the Disney Magic. In addition to dinner, you’ll also be entertained while eating at these three restaurants. 

Each of the ships offers free ice cream, as well as a premium coffee bar. They all have various snack options available throughout the day, including pizza, sandwiches, and salads. The Disney Dream also offers a premium ice cream/dessert spot, called Vanellope’s. Everything in Vanellope’s is offered at an additional fee.

In addition to Palo, there are other adult-only restaurants on some of the ships. The Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream offer Remy, while the Disney Wish has Enchante.

For breakfast and lunch, each of the four original ships has the Cabanas buffet, with both indoor and outdoor seating. On the Wish, there’s Marceline Market, which is similar to a buffet but with servers plating the food.

Bars and Lounges on the Disney Cruise Ships

While most people travel with kids on the Disney Cruise Line, there are still bars and lounges that adults can enjoy. Since many kids will likely spend much of their time in the phenomenal kids’ clubs on board, adults will have lots of opportunities to visit the adult-only areas.

The Disney Fantasy offers a whole area of the ship called Europa, filled with European-themed bars and lounges. Ooh La La, a champagne bar, is my personal favorite.

The Disney Dream ship features the District, which is similar to Europa. It’s located in the same area of the ship, and has similar bars. Instead of Ooh La La, their champagne bar is called Pink. My favorite bar of all the ships is the Meridian Lounge, which is located between Palo and Remy on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

The Disney Wonder and Disney Magic also have bars and lounges. The Wonder has the After Hours adult area with several lounges. In most cases, the bars and lounges are open to kids during the day, but are adult only in the evenings.

On the Wish, two of my favorite bars are the Bayou, and Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge. These two themed, unique lounges are great for a drink before or after dinner.

Programming at these bars, including games and entertainment, is sometimes offered – check your Disney Cruise Line app for details.

Staterooms on the Disney Cruise Ships

While there are some differences between the staterooms on the ships, for the most part, they are very much alike. They offer similar features, and while they are small, they are also comfortable.

My family of four regularly stays in a Deluxe Family Stateroom with Verandah, and we find it to be enough room. We don’t spend too much time in the room because there’s so much to do on the ship.

The Disney Wish, Disney’s newest ship, offers even more concierge rooms than any of the other Disney cruise ships.

Amenities on the Disney Cruise Ships

All of the ships offer a number of amenities that families will love. These ships were clearly built with families in mind.

Each ship offers a pool deck with splash areas and the Funnel Vision signature television screen showing Disney movies throughout the day. On the Disney Fantasy and Dream, you’ll also be able to go on the Aquaduck water coaster. It’s so much fun, and you’ll want to go more than once.

While the Disney Magic and Wonder don’t have the AquaDuck, the Disney Magic does have the AquaDunk, a high-speed water slide tube. The Disney Wish has a new coaster, called the AquaMouse.

There are also sports decks with various amenities, depending on the ship. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy have sports simulators, but you’ll need to make reservations for that in advance.

The ships also all have kids’ clubs, Senses spas , hot tubs, shops, and much more. I also recommend walking around the ship when you first arrive so you can learn about everything that is available to you.

Activities on the Disney Cruise Ships

Each of the ships offers lots of activities, including first-run Disney movies in the movie theater (the Wish has two theaters) and Broadway-style stage live shows in the Walt Disney Theater. The shows do vary by ship, but I’ve seen all of them and everyone is fantastic.

My favorite show is currently Frozen, which plays on the Wonder.  A close runner-up to that is a new Beauty and the Beast show that runs on the Disney Dream. Other newer shows are Aladdin on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Wish, the Little Mermaid on the Disney Wish, and Tangled on the Disney Magic. 

Other activities include family and adult game shows, beverage-tasting seminars, Bingo, and animation classes. There are also Disney character greetings on every ship. Check the Navigatornapp to see the full schedule of events.

Ships typically have a pirate night during one night of the cruise. It’s so much fun – definitely go to the fireworks if there’s a pirate night during your cruise. 

On the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream, kids will love the Midship Detective Agency. This free game lets you become a detective while finding clues throughout the midship section of the boat. When my kids were younger, we’d accompany them on their quest. Once they were a bit older, they loved the freedom of doing it on their own.  

The Disney Wish has a new augmented reality experience, called Disney Uncharted Adventure. It works with the app, and ends with a live event.

So, what is the best Disney Cruise Line ship?

My personal favorite is the Disney Fantasy, the second-newest ship in the fleet (for now). However, that was the first Disney ship that I traveled on, so I’m not sure if that’s why it’s my favorite.

Others really love the Magic. As a smaller ship, it’s definitely more quaint and it’s easier to walk around. I do love the shows on the Magic, as well as the restaurants.

It’s really hard to say which is the best Disney cruise ship because they are all great!

What is your favorite Disney Cruise ship?

See our Disney Cruise Line comparison story here .

Frequently Asked Questions

All of the ships have teen clubs and other great amenities. My teens loved the Disney Wish, which also has the Hero Zone which is where you can play basketball, ping pong, and other sports indoors. But when choosing a ship for teens, I’d focus on the itinerary first.

As someone who sometimes cruises without my kids, I appreciate the adult-only sections. My favorite adult-only area is Satellite Falls, an outdoor sun deck area that is on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream. I also really love the Rainforest Room in the Senses Spa on the Disney Wish. While all of the ships have Rainforest Rooms (for an additional fee), the one on the Wish is the largest and has a great outdoor area.

More Disney Cruise Ships Resources: Click to read more about the Disney Cruise Line ships including restaurants, tips, itineraries, activities, and more.

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Ranking The Best Disney Cruise Ships For 2023

By Lisa Gilmore Leave a Comment

You’ve resolved to travel more, to get out of your home, your neighborhood, and even your town. You may have even resolved to travel beyond the Disney Parks and see more of the world beyond EPCOT’s World Showcase. That’s right — you’re taking a Disney Cruise !

The Disney Wish

But how do you choose which ship to cruise on? Now that Disney’s fleet has expanded to five ships ( soon to be six !), you might be struggling to decide which ship is right for you and your family. And since Disney Cruises are quite the investment of your family vacation dollars, that is an important decision. So, we’re here to help you break it down!

The  Disney Cruise Line  fleet is comprised of  five world-class ships : the  Disney Magic , the  Disney Wonder , the  Disney Dream , the  Disney Fantasy,  and the newest ship in the fleet: the  Disney Wish .   The fleet will be joined by the  Disney Treasure in 2024! They all sail to different ports and in different areas of the world, so just your itinerary of WHERE you want to travel will narrow down your selection quite a bit.

And if you’re also restricted on cruising dates, well, that will also help narrow down your options. For example, if your travel plans have you cruisin’ around Europe, then you’ll be sailing on the Disney Dream — because that’s the only ship that currently sails in Europe.

Not a bad view

But we’re gonna take travel dates and travel destinations off of the table and JUST look at the ships and what the ships have to offer. We’re gonna rank all five ships based off of some standard criteria so YOU know which ship will best fit your needs and the needs of your family.

Best Cruise for Food

Best cruise for adults, best cruise for kids, best cruise for teens.

• Best Cruise for Recreation 
• Best Cruise for Entertainment 

Mickey and Minnie on the Disney Wish!

So, now that you have an idea of what this is all about, let’s dig into these ships! We have a full overview of everything the ships have to offer , and now we’re highlight the ships that top each category of fun, food, and frivolity!

Sometimes evaluating food, restaurants, and dining experiences on Disney Cruise ships can be difficult because many of them offer the same options. All of the ships have a sort of food court-style quick service options on the top deck, near the pools. You can find fine dining options like Palo or Remy (or both) on most of the ships. And Animator’s Palate has become a Disney Cruise dining icon on the ships. So, how do you distinguish “best food” on the ships when so many options are so similar on most of the ships?

Animator’s Palate restaurant

Now, consider this a good thing! It’s difficult to decide the best and that means that when selecting your cruise, you don’t have to worry about FOMO! If your cruise destination has you sailing on the Disney Wonder instead of the Disney Dream because so many experiences are similar across the fleet, that means that you won’t be missing much (if anything).

Now we know that makes us sound like we’re teasing you. “Hey DFB, you said you’d give the Best Cruise for Food, and now you’re saying it’s all good. What’s the deal?” Ok, ok, we hear you! There IS a Best Cruise for Food — the standout in this category is the Disney Wish .

The Disney Wish is the newest Disney Cruise and it has SO many dining options, some are similar to experiences on other ships, and some are completely unique to the Wish! And there’s just MORE to choose from!

Food on the Disney Wish

The Wish has the traditional Disney Cruise Line three dining room rotational dining service which rotates among three brand new dining stories: Worlds of Marvel , 1923 , and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure .  These new dining experiences are unique, fun, engaging and let’s face it, delicious! You’ll also find the poolside quick service options that you’ve come to expect on a Disney Cruise, but the quality of these locations on the Wish just stands apart from the other ships.

Who knew Ant-Man was such a good cook?

The Wish just also goes above and beyond in some other categories, like having some great spots to snag specialty coffee orders, for those who need a latte while they cruise, you can pick up your caffeine fix at Wishing Star Cafe and also in Marceline Market (the top deck buffet service), both in addition to the Cove Bar & Café you can find on all of the Disney ships. The same can be said of the bars and lounges, the Wish has NINE (well, TEN if you include Hook’s Barbery , which will serve up some rum while you get your beard trimmed)! There’s even a $5,000 cocktail you can get at the exclusive Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge .

Awesome Cast Members!

The Disney Wish wins the food category, but that doesn’t mean that the other ships are losers. You’ll still have amazing and memorable meals aboard any of Disney’s ships. But, if you’re going to pick a cruise just based on the food alone, and you don’t care where or when you cruise, then you’ll want the Disney Wish.

All of the Disney Wish Restaurants

Disney Cruises are great for families and kids, but they make amazing vacations and retreats for adults, as well. Whether you’re traveling solo, with some pals, on your honeymoon or anniversary, or with your family but just getting a break from the younger members of your crew, the Disney Cruise ships offer fun, relaxation, and luxury for grown-ups.

You just read all about which cruise wins for food and you’re thinking, with ten bars and lounges, that the Wish has to top the Adults category, too, don’t you? Well, SURPRISE, it’s up there but didn’t win this round.

Who edged out their sister ships on this category? The  Disney Fantasy .

Disney Fantasy

As mentioned above, many of the ships offer overlapping experiences and offerings, so you’ll find adult-only areas, pools, lounges, spas, and decks on all of the ships. But what sets the Fantasy apart from her sisters is that her over-18 options are conveniently located in the same general section of the ship. The adult dining options of Palo,  Meridian , and Remy are snuggled together at the aft of Deck 12, but Deck 4 seems to be created with adults in mind with seven variously themed bars and lounges ( Vista Cafe, D Lounge, Ooh La La, La Piazza, O’Gills Pub, Skyline, and The Tube ), not to mention Tiffany & Co gift shop for those looking for some duty-free jewelry purchases.

Ooh Laa Laa

Again, you’ll find adult-only sections on every Disney Cruise. However, if your cruise plans are centered around a grown-up adventure, then you might want to see where the Fantasy will take you!

Disney Fantasy Cruising: 2023 Restaurant Guide

Well, this is all Disney Cruises, isn’t it? If Disney is known for anything, it’s quality entertainment for kids, so you know you’re kids are gonna have a good time on a Disney Cruise. But is any one ship a little better at this than the others?

Oceaneer Club

All of the ships have kids-only areas that are age specific with activities and entertainment tailored to that age-range. These Disney Oceaneer Clubs and Oceaneer Labs are on all of the cruise ships, but there are different themes and Disney stories utilized on each ship. But one ship pulls ahead of its peers in this category: The Disney Wish .

The Wish is really a benefactor of its older siblings. The Wish started her cruising career in 2022, nearly 24 years after the first official Disney Cruise ship, The Disney Magic. That’s 24 years for Imagineers, technology, and research to optimize the best possible experience and space for little cruisers to enjoy. And they’ve really done their homework and it begins before they even enter the Oceaneer space — at the entrance, which is A SLIDE! Parents check their kiddos into the Club on Deck 3, and then they SLIDE DOWN to Deck 2, where the club is located (sorry, it’s a kids-only slide, no adults allowed).

You can enter the Disney Wish kids’ area through a SLIDE!

The Oceaneer Club has multiple spaces where kids can choose to hang out and participate in different activities. There’s a stage in the hub of the club where there will be special shows and character appearances. And then it breaks off into different themed areas like  Fairytale Hall for fans of Disney royalty; Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, where kids participate in hands-on activities;  Marvel Super Hero Academy for those Avengers-in-training; Star Wars Cargo Bay for those force-sensitive in the family; and Mickey & Minnie’s Captain’s Deck with an indoor playground set for getting some of that youthful energy out.

Oceaneer Lab

And while it’s not located in the Oceaneer Club, but you can’t forget about Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique where kids can get transformed into their favorite Disney characters! And other kid-loved spaces like pools, waterslides….er water-coasters, the Hero Zone , and well, you know, the whole rest of the ship.

The Disney Wish includes an Imagineering Lab for kids!

So the Wish is the best cruise for kids, but another thing to consider is the best cruise ship for adults with kids and we’d consider the Magic or the Wonder would fit that role as those ships are smaller, easier to navigate, and overall just a bit less complicated. So, this is kind of a “yes, but” answer, but still something worth considering!

Explore the Kids Clubs on the New Disney Cruise Ship — The Wish

Let’s look at that teen stereotype of kinda moody, a little sassy, too “grown up” for cartoons, but still a little goofy and definitely not shouldering the burden of student-loan debt or a mortgage, but dealing with the nuances of maintaining their cool in a virtual universe of social media. Can Disney find something to appeal to the complex creatures that are human teenagers? Is there anything on a Disney Cruise ship that might entice a teen to put down their phone (or adults too for that matter, you know who you are), and have dinner with their family, watch a show, participate in a game, or even make some new friends and actually talk to them IRL (that’s “in real life” for you grown-ups out there) rather than just communicating through text?

Disney had their work cut out for them to find new and engaging ways to reach the ever-evolving interests or teenagers. And as technology, culture, and trends seems to change every five years, that is a daunting task to remain relevant for this dynamic group of cruisers. Yet, they managed to do it! (Disney, you are really a place where dreams come true!) But which ship did it best?

We’re starting to sound like a bit of a broken record, but we like the Disney Wish and Disney’s Dream and Fantasy (since they have the same options).

Disney Wish’s indoor or weather-controlled Hero Zone  is a multi-use space for so many activities. This includes basketball, ping pong, air hockey, shuffleboard, and foosball. Families can use this area too, but it’s especially great for teens. It’s not an accident that the Hero Zone is near Vibe on Disney Wish.

Hero Zone ©Disney

The Wish is the only ship to have The Hideaway for teens and tweens. Yet the other ships – Disney Dream, Fantasy, and Magic – all have Chill , a teens-only spa for ages 13 to 17.

Learn All of the Disney Wish Secrets

Best cruise for recreation (pools & spa).

For all of these categories, we can honestly say, “all of the ships are great, but this one just squeaks out ahead”, but not for this category. When it comes to the best Disney Cruise ship for Recreation (we’re talking pools and spas), The  Disney Wish is the clear front runner.

Aaaaahh….

Now, yes, you will find plenty of pools and a luxurious spa on each and every one of the Disney Cruise ships, but the Wish just does them bigger, better, and more! The AquaMouse   is not your average poolside, or even your cruise-specific “over the edge of boat” slide, it’s a complete water attraction! You’ll get in a 2-seater ride vehicle and go up into a tunnel that will take you into the world of Disney animated shorts, either “Scuba Scramble” or “Swiss Meltdown” as your story, and you’ll see the story playing out on the screens around you!

Beyond the epic water coaster, there are a total of  10 pools and water play areas , in fact — each named after a Disney character! And for the little ones, there’s a  Toy Story Splash Zone , which has  Toy Story characters that squirt water!  Quiet Cove  is an  adults-only area of the deck , where you’ll find an infinity pool, whirlpool spa, and bar.

Toy Story Splash Zone

And the Spa?! The Senses Spa is on all of the Cruise Ships, but on the Disney Wish, there are all of the luxurious indoor treatment areas and an outdoor rainforest relaxation space. Unique to the ship is Disney Cruise Line’s first-ever ice lounge for thermal therapies, plus other treatments like  heated ergonomic loungers.  There are also multiple different rooms to use like the  sauna , steam room , and frigidarium, or the cold room.

Other Cruises have the Bibbidi Bobbiti Boutiques for little ones to get the royal treatment, but only the Wish has Hook’s Barbery, where dapper folks can get spiffed up in a setting reminiscent of a cigar room, and could also sip on a nice cognac or rum in the process. It’s a BARber shop, get it?

Hook’s Barbery

Will you get the chance to pamper yourself and relax on other Disney cruises? Yes. But if your final destination is relaxation decadence, then you want the Wish.

The Most Relaxing Spots on Disney’s New Cruise Ship

Best cruise for entertainment (clubs, shows, and characters).

Disney Cruise Line also offers  free movies in multiple spots – out on the funnel vision screen near the pools, as well as in the movie theater on the ship. The movie theater even offers runs of new movies that are currently out in theaters. There are also  Broadway-style shows in the theater onboard the ship. Typically these large productions are offered more than once a night. Each ship has its own unique performances.

Walt Disney Theatre

In the ship’s Atriums, Disney Characters meet and interact with guests throughout the day, and the ships all set off evening fireworks. And there are spaces onboard for quizzes, trivia, and games for families or just adults to enjoy. The ships are all floating entertainment centers! But a few of them offer a bit more in this category.

The Disney Dream and Fantasy both host the Midship Detective Agency, an interactive game taking guests all around the ship to solve a mystery. There are three different mystery options involving Mickey and friends, characters from Disney’s 101 Dalmations, or the Muppets. And we do love a good Muppet Caper!

Disney Cruise Line Atrium

The Disney Wish  has learned from its older siblings and created a unique Atrium Stage which hosts unique character shows throughout the cruise and character meet-and-greet opportunities. It also has its own interactive game aboard, Disney Unchartered Adventure.  Disney Unchartered Adventure is its own interactive game using the Play Disney Parks app and AR technology on your mobile device to play games and interact with your favorite Disney characters.

So, which ship comes out on top? We lean toward the Dream and Fantasy . We love the Midship Detective Agency and how families can play it together or individuals can play it solo. Plus, Muppets. ‘Nough said.

SNEAK PEEK at Pixar Characters Coming to Disney Cruise Line Soon

Like we’ve said about a hundred times already, there’s no such thing as a  bad Disney Cruise. Your ship will provide you with impeccable service, special memories, amazing food, fun activities, and relaxation galore, no matter when or where you cruise. But if you’re looking for some very specific onboard experiences, these categories may help you find the right ship for you and your family.

Disney Dream

And remember, in 2024, the new Disney Treasure will launch and may upset this whole list! Disney also recently acquired another ship which will receive a Disney makeover and debut sometime in 2025 . Looking to cruise to Alaska? Get all the details here. 

We’ll keep you posted on how these new additions to the Disney fleet stack up, so make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter to keep up with all of the Disney Cruise Line and Disney Parks information!

Join the DFB Newsletter  to get all the breaking news right in your inbox!  Click here to Subscribe!

What you need to know about disney cruise line, learn all about disney cruise line and its various ships, explore disney’s mega cruise ship – the wish, a full list of what you can’t bring on a disney cruise, these are the best times to book your disney cruise, the best ways to save space in your tiny cruise cabin, 10 things you need on your next cruise (that you won’t think to pack), what it’s like to live on a cruise ship for 6 months, join the dfb newsletter to get all the latest disney news delivered right to your inbox click here to subscribe.

Which Disney Cruise ship is YOUR favorite? Let us know in the comments!

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Disney Dream

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line |

Find a Cruise on Disney Dream

with a cruise advisor

Last renovated in 2015 (after being introduced in 2011), the 4,000-passenger Disney Dream is one of Disney's largest ships. Highlights include the 765-foot AquaDuck water coaster, a virtual sports simulator (for an extra fee) and theatrical performances that bring Disney animated favorites – like "Beauty and the Beast" – to life.

While the ship emphasizes family-focused entertainment with five specialized kids clubs, parents can enjoy the adults-only Quiet Cove pool and the Senses Spa & Salon. At night, a section of the ship called The District transforms into an adult oasis with host of bars and lounges. In terms of dining, the ship offers nine themed venues including two specialty adults-only restaurants.

Staterooms also cater to cruising clans, offering perks like sofa beds. Over 85 percent of cabins have ocean views or verandas. Those looking for extra space can opt for Concierge Suites, which range from 622 to 1,781 square feet.

While some recent cruisers commented that the ship is more expensive than other mainstream competitors, most said it was well worth the price due to the personalized attention they received from the staff.

Disney Dream departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida ;  New York ; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Southampton, England; and more for sailings in the Bahamas , Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Europe. The cruise line also offers some transatlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Don't skip dinner at Animator's Palate and its Undersea Magic dinner show. During the meal, you'll be immersed in the world of Finding Nemo, as Crush the turtle from the movie swims by virtually to chat with families between courses. (This dinner show is also available on the Disney Fantasy ). – Megan duBois, Contributor

Pros & Cons

Numerous specialized kids clubs

Pricier than other mainstream cruise lines

• Expert Rating » 4.0
• Traveler Rating » 4.5
• Health Rating » 5.0

Disney Dream ranks # 2 out of 5 Disney Cruise Line Cruise Ships based on an analysis of expert and user ratings, as well as health ratings.

• # 2 in Best Disney Cruise Line
• # 4 in Best Cruises for Families
• # 11 in Best Cruises to the Caribbean
• # 12 in Best Luxury Cruises
• # 14 in Best Cruises to the Mediterranean
• # 16 in Best Cruises to Europe

Disney Dream offers a wide range of accomodation options. Browse cabins to find the stateroom that suits your needs.

Disney Dream contains 14 decks. Find out which features are available on each Disney Dream deck.

Traveler Reviews

A ship’s traveler rating is provided under license by Cruiseline.com , which manages one of the largest databases of cruise reviews and ratings by travelers. A total of 1041 guests have reviewed Disney Dream , giving it a rating of 4.5 on a scale of 1-5.

Cruiseline Travel Rating:

Reviews by traveler type.

Ship Photos

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 Cruise Line Ship Immediately Halts in Middle of Atlantic, Boat Capsizes

in Disney Cruise Line

The Disney Dream took a pit stop in the middle of the Atlantic yesterday evening as the ship attempted to assist in what appeared to be an urgent emergency.

Disney Cruise Line sets sail on a fleet of five marvelous ships. The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, launched in 1997 and 1998, respectively, are considered the veteran vessels of the Disney Cruise Line family. Known for their cozy size and enchanting Disney atmosphere, these ships are perfect for families looking for a classic Disney cruise experience.

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, sister ships launched in 2010 and 2012, offer a bit more space compared to the classic ships.

The newest member of the fleet is the Disney Wish, which set sail for the first time in 2022. As the first in the Triton Class, the Disney Wish introduces innovative experiences like the immersive storytelling environment in the Disney Wish-verse.

The future promises to be even brighter for Disney Cruise Line, with three more ships scheduled to join the fleet. The Disney Treasure, set for a late 2024 debut, will be the second ship in the Triton Class. Disney Adventure and Disney Destiny are also on the horizon, with launches planned for 2025.

No matter what Disney ship you are on, cast members ensure that guest safety is their top priority. 

For example, just days ago, the U.S. Coast Guard responded to a pregnant passenger in need of assistance aboard the Disney Fantasy, conducting an airlift operation to transport her from the ship in the middle of the Atlantic to Puerto Rico, approximately 200 miles away.

The 35-year-old woman faced health issues requiring more extensive medical attention than what was available onboard.

Utilizing a rescue basket and litter, the woman and the ship’s doctor were lifted onto the helicopter, which then flew them to the Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Subsequently, she was transferred to Centro Medico Hospital for further treatment.

Disney will also stop to help other ships in the water if they appear to be in distress.

Last night, Kevin John O’Connor, a passenger on the Disney Dream, posted a reel to the Disney Cruise Line Facebook group, stating that the ship stopped moving to help what appeared to be a capsized boat in the water.

The boat was crossing the Atlantic to get to Spain when it stopped, and as we can see from Kevin’s post, it is certainly an upside down boat.

Kevin reported that there were no visible signs of life from the incident.

The Blast reported that guest Jose Carreon on the Disney Dream had passed a capsized boat late evening on Tuesday, May 7, 2024. “Shortly thereafter, an announcement came over the loudspeakers, informing the passengers that the ship had to turn around and investigate. The ship stopped for approximately 30 minutes but then left the site. According to Mr. Carreon, the captain of the Disney Dream contacted local authorities.”

The publication spoke to other passengers including Lacey Harris, who said, “they saw lights and a capsized catamaran off the starboard side and would be stopping to investigate.” Ms. Harris witnessed the captain and crew “shine the big searchlight on the wreckage for about 30 minutes.”

“They searched the water and wreckage, but no one was found. After they realized no one would be found, the Captain came back [over the loudspeaker] and announced they would be continuing on to Ponta Delgada and thanked us for our patience.”

Earlier this year, we reported that Disney conducted a successful rescue mission on New Year’s Eve, once again stopping their boat to provide aid.

The crew spotted a small boat in distress north of Havana, Cuba. Cruise lines helping stranded vessels is uncommon, but Disney Fantasy didn’t hesitate. Passengers even captured the rescue mission on camera. The Disney Fantasy crew launched a smaller boat and brought four people on board safely.

While Disney has faced its fair share of issues, other major cruise lines do as well.

Carnival Cruise Line faced a significant emergency situation in February 2013 when the Carnival Triumph suffered an engine room fire. This incident left the ship stranded in the Gulf of Mexico without power, resulting in unsanitary conditions and limited amenities for passengers. After several days adrift, the ship was eventually towed to Mobile, Alabama.

Royal Caribbean encountered its own emergency situation in February 2016 when the Anthem of the Seas encountered a severe storm off the coast of South Carolina. The ship listed dramatically, causing damage and injuries among passengers due to the rough seas. As a result, the ship returned to port in New Jersey ahead of schedule.

Princess Cruise Line found itself in the midst of a crisis in February 2020 when the Diamond Princess faced a COVID-19 outbreak while docked in Yokohama, Japan. Passengers were quarantined onboard for several weeks, and the ship became a focal point of international attention regarding the spread of the virus.

These are just a few small examples of that.

More on Disney’s Next Cruise Line Adventure

A new era of spooky fun is setting sail on the Disney Cruise Line! The Disney Treasure, embarking on its maiden voyage to the Eastern Caribbean on December 21st, 2024, will be bringing the beloved Haunted Mansion experience to life onboard for the first time ever.

The aptly named Haunted Mansion Parlor will welcome guests with a chilling ambiance inspired by the iconic Disney Parks attraction. Expect specialty spooky libations and eerie décor that will send shivers down your spine in the best way possible.

This spooky addition coincides perfectly with Disney’s annual “Halfway to Halloween” celebration, where they reveal exciting details about their upcoming Halloween festivities. To celebrate, Disney Cruise Line has unveiled some never-before-seen glimpses of the Haunted Mansion Parlor:

• A hauntingly beautiful aquarium filled with ghostly fish – a tribute to an early concept from legendary Disney Imagineer Rolly Crump. A special bust will also be on display to honor his contributions.
• An eerie art collection featuring some ghostly new residents, sure to send shivers down your spine.
• Spooky drinkware designed to match the spectral inhabitants that haunt this lounge. Get ready for a treasure trove of entertainment options beyond the spooky delights!

The Disney Treasure boasts a brand new Broadway-caliber musical, Disney: The Tale of Moana, that will set sail alongside you. Foodies can also rejoice with a Coco -themed dining experience at Plaza de Coco. This dinner show picks up where the beloved 2017 Pixar movie left off, with a brand-new adventure and delicious Mexican cuisine to tantalize your taste buds.

Thrill-seekers won’t be disappointed, either. The massive 144,000-gross ton cruise ship features the brand new AquaMouse water coaster, a 760-foot long adventure that combines the thrills of a water slide with a roller coaster.

Finally, for adults seeking a break from the little ones or couples looking for a romantic escape, Disney is expanding its adult-only offerings with Sarabi, a Lion King -themed lounge named after Simba’s mother. This versatile space transforms throughout the day, offering musical performances, comedy acts, and family game shows during the day before transforming into a lively adult-exclusive haunt by night, complete with live entertainment designed for a more mature audience.

Do you plan to take a Disney Cruise Line vacation this year? What is your favorite ship? 

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Family sues Disney Cruise Line after man dies from stroke suffered on ship: court documents

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The family of a man who suffered a stroke on a Disney Cruise Line ship alleges Disney and a cruise line healthcare company did not do enough to save their loved one.

A federal lawsuit filed in the Middle District of Florida on Tuesday claims that Nghi Nguyen, 76, was not given the proper care when he was showing symptoms of a stroke aboard the Disney Dream in April 2023.

Court documents state Nguyen died less than two months after he boarded the ship, which his family believes is a direct result of the medical care he received on the cruise.

Four days after setting sail from Miami, Nguyen began to experience stroke symptoms. He was seen by a physician aboard the ship, but the lawsuit alleges staff did not consult a neurologist about his condition and “did not speak with the ship’s captain about speeding up the ship toward land.”

He remained on the ship for eight more hours before he was allowed to disembark, according to the lawsuit. Nguyen’s family seeks an unspecified amount in damages, alleging negligence due to Disney’s lack of urgency in treating his condition.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.

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Is a Disney cruise for adults? Here are 5 reasons why I say yes

Gourmet French dinners, $5,000 cocktail experiences , serene infinity pools and penthouse suites that cost thousands of dollars a night might not be the first thing you think of when someone mentions a Disney cruise. But you'll find it all on Disney ships.

I sailed with the line for the first time more than a decade ago, and I didn't want to take the assignment. I'm a child-free adult, I'm not a particularly over-the-top Disney fan, and all I could imagine was a theme park at sea — characters everywhere, souvenir shops galore and, of course, tons of kids.

Simply, I was wrong.

What I found was an absolutely wonderful experience on an elegant ship with superb service, phenomenal entertainment, delicious food and just enough subtle magic to instill a bit of childlike wonder without making me feel immature.

Disney Cruise Line has maintained its four older ships exceptionally well, and its newest vessel, Disney Wish — its first new-build in 10 years — is also pretty great. Across the board, my opinion still stands: Disney cruises aren't just for kids. So, if you're trying to find a Disney cruise for adults, don't worry — they all fit the bill. Here are five reasons why you'll love the experience, even as a grownup.

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You control how 'Disney' you want it to be

Let me allay your fears: When you sail with Disney, you won't be overwhelmed by Mickey and friends the way you might be at the brand's land-based amusement parks. However, that experience is available should you choose to seek it.

The subtlety with which Disney manages to incorporate branded touches on its ships is commendable and classy. You'll find nods to various Disney animated movie classics as you move between decks — a pumpkin on the carpet here, a snowflake on the wall there — but you're likely to find it more tasteful than obnoxious.

If you'd like to avoid a largely Disney-fied ambience, it's easy to do. If, instead, you prefer a more immersive cruise, you're also in luck, as the ships host scheduled character meet-and-greets, themed dining experiences and more.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

There are tons of adults-only spaces

Grownups who wish to keep strictly to an older crowd will love the adults-only venues on all Disney ships.

On Disney's four older vessels — Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy (which is my pick for the best Disney cruise ship for adults ), Disney Wonder and Disney Magic — adults-only bars and nightclubs are clustered into one area, known as The District. After 9 p.m., nobody younger than 18 is permitted inside, allowing the more mature set to let its hair down sans kids.

On Disney Wish, the age-limited spaces are more spread out, a purposeful layout designed to help alleviate crowding and improve traffic flow. Personally, I prefer The District's setup, but the watering holes on the new ship are, frankly, the most impressive in the fleet to date.

What's impressive about these offerings is that most other ships don't have them. Apart from Virgin Voyages , Viking , P&O Cruises and Saga Cruises, all of which sail adults-only vessels , the most other lines offer is an adults-only sun deck or pool here and there. Even where those areas exist, age limits aren't always strictly enforced, and sometimes you have to pay for access, none of which is the case on Disney ships.

Related: Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Club loyalty program: Everything you need to know

Even the least expensive accommodations are elevated

Disney cruises are a cut above the sailings you'll find with most other mainstream lines. When it comes to accommodations, even the most basic feel elevated. All have two bathrooms; one has a shower with a tub (rare on cruise ships) and a sink, and the other has a toilet and a sink.

Disney provides its own brand of toiletries in cabin bathrooms. The products are so popular — they smell divine — that the line sells them in its onboard gift shops.

All rooms also offer a dividing curtain that creates two separate areas. Although these features were designed with families in mind, they're also convenient for friends traveling together, adding to the argument that a Disney cruise could make for a perfect girlfriends getaway.

On the high end, the line sells a variety of suite accommodations. New on Disney Wish, the Tower Suite is the most coveted and most expensive, carrying a price tag of several thousand dollars per night.

Located in the ship's fake funnel, the suite is two decks high and includes three bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths and a large living room area. Its understated nautical decor pays subtle tribute to "Moana." Unfortunately, because of the layout, there's no balcony, but you'll still be spoiled beyond belief if you book a stay there.

You can also choose to book concierge-level staterooms , which offer perks like priority boarding and disembarkation, access to a dedicated lounge with free drinks in the evenings and dibs on booking the best spa appointments and shore excursions.

Related: Smooth sailing on a family Disney cruise: Review of concierge level on Disney Wonder

Delicious dining options range from basic to gourmet

Disney Cruise Line's dining options allow you to either join the masses (where there will be children, so take heed) in the free dining rooms, head to the buffet or open-air food court, or opt for an adults-only added-fee option.

On all of the fleet's ships, standard dining is rotational, which means you'll move to a different main dining room each night but with the same table number, tablemates and waitstaff.

In my experience, dining across the board on Disney ships has been absolutely scrumptious and well prepared, regardless of where I chose to eat and how much extra I paid.

On Disney Wish, 1923 is a throwback to the golden age of animation. Split into two parts, it offers a more intimate setting than what you'd find at Royal Court, the more understated free dining venue on the line's other vessels.

For more immersive and somewhat gimmicky meals that are fun but often loud, adult passengers on Disney Wish will want to check out Worlds of Marvel and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure . The former brings Ant-Man and The Wasp tableside (via prerecorded broadcast) to show off their new discovery — a Quantum Core, with which Ant-Man unwittingly shrinks the ship down to the size of a toy boat. During the latter, you'll find much singing and dancing to celebrate the engagement of Anna and Kristoff, two of the main characters from "Frozen." In line with the theme, the menu is largely Norwegian.

On the four original ships, immersive options include Animator's Palate, where "Finding Nemo" characters talk with you as you eat; Enchanted Garden, which feels a bit like a scene from "Alice in Wonderland," where you can watch as the scenery slowly turns from day to night; and Rapunzel's Royal Table, where characters from "Tangled" make an appearance.

Also on the original vessels, Palo is an adults-only Italian eatery . On Disney Wish, it has been transformed into an elegantly styled steakhouse that exudes "Beauty and the Beast" vibes. This is the perfect option for anyone who wants something less casual than the buffet but also wants to avoid crowds and noise in the main dining rooms without paying a fortune.

Before you go in, stop at The Rose bar, which is perfect for tasty pre-dinner cocktails.

Enchante and Remy are two of the most expensive alternative dining options at sea for any cruise line. Both feature French cuisine and are reserved exclusively for adult diners. The latter appears on older DCL ships and was inspired by (and named after the main character in) "Ratatouille."

Enchante is new as of the debut of Disney Wish. It offers a completely revamped menu by chef Arnaud Lallement, who's also the mastermind behind the menu at Remy. Enchante allows for a la carte dining, or you can choose from one of two experiences: Passion, a seven-course meal for $125, or Collection, a selection of surprise courses curated by the chef for $195. (Wine and Champagne pairings cost extra.)

The kids clubs are fantastic

"But, wait," you're thinking. "I thought this was an article about why Disney Cruises are great for adults." You're exactly right, and that's why this one is so important.

The Oceaneer Club offerings on Disney ships are so fun, engaging and technologically advanced that kids often don't want to leave. So, whether you're a parent looking for some downtime or a child-free adult who doesn't appreciate little ones pushing all the elevator buttons or teens clogging up stairwells, you won't have to worry about a barrage of younger passengers.

From babysitting for infants, kids and tweens to phenomenal play areas (think: themes like princesses, Marvel superheroes and "Star Wars"), the line's childcare services are a cut above those provided by all other cruise brands. In fact, they're so cool you'll wish you could spend time there yourself — and you can during designated hours on each voyage.

Bottom line

Although you won't be able to completely avoid children on Disney ships, you can still enjoy the magic of The Mouse in several adults-only spaces found on all of the line's ships. The onboard experience will make you feel like a kid again but in luxurious surroundings and with the excellent service and attention to detail that have become hallmarks of the Disney brand.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
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• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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“Sorry I’m late – I was streaming,” Peter jokes in the sketch, emphasizing the last word of the sentence after he is shown leaving the bathroom. “I didn’t really hear the sink running in the bathroom,” the animated version of Ferro responds, before delivering a rapid-fire pitch for Disney’s wares.

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Taking the stage in human form at North Javits, the cruise-ship-sized event hall where Disney hosted its upfront, Ferro pointed to the ubiquity of Disney, across its parks, networks, studios and sports operations. Her remarks followed those of Bob Iger, who acknowledged the four senior leaders running various parts of the empire: Dana Walden, Alan Bergman, Jimmy Pitaro and Josh D’Amaro.

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Ferro showed photos (and one grainy film clip) of her visiting DisneyWorld as a child. The screens spread out across hundreds of feet around the stage then showed a collection of crowd-sourced Disney photos. The company had encouraged those attending the upfront to submit their favorite “Disney memories.”

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Ferro said the company’s scale gives it a knack for “transcending generations and igniting pure joy … Other companies talk about users; we talk about our guests.”

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