Top 5 Disney Cruise Fails You Don’t Want to Make

Kristi DeRubertis,

A Disney Cruise is a dream vacation filled with magic, adventure, and world-class service. Whether it’s your first cruise or you’re a seasoned Disney traveler, knowing what not to do can help you make the most of your trip. Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll be sailing smoothly toward the ultimate Disney experience!

  1. Don’t Skip the Onboard Reservations

If you’re hoping to enjoy premium experiences like: Dining at Palo or Remy (adults-only specialty restaurants), Spa treatments at Senses Spa & Salon, and Character meet-and-greets with rare Disney favorites. You’ll also want to make sure you book your little one at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or The Pirates League (especially for Pirate Night).

You’ll want to book these as soon as your reservation window opens. These activities fill up quickly, and if you wait until you’re onboard, you might miss out.

Pro Tip: Check the Disney Cruise Line website for your booking window based on your Castaway Club status. First-time cruisers can book 75 days before sailing, while Platinum Castaway Club members get first access at 120 days.

  1. Don’t Ignore the Disney Cruise Navigator App

The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App is your best friend at sea! This free app keeps you updated on:

  • Daily schedules for shows, character appearances, and activities
  • Dining rotations so you know where you’re eating each night
  • Deck plans to help you navigate the ship

Many first-time cruisers miss out on special activities simply because they didn’t check the app. From impromptu character dance parties to hidden tastings at bars and lounges, the app helps you stay in the know.

Pro Tip: You don’t need Wi-Fi to use the app! Simply connect to the ship’s free intranet for access throughout your cruise.

  1. Don’t Miss Out on Adults-Only Areas

While Disney Cruises are known for being family-friendly, they also offer exclusive spaces for adults looking for a little relaxation. Don’t make the mistake of thinking everything is geared toward kids!

Areas such as Serenity Bay (Castaway Cay), Cove Café, Quiet Cove Pool, Senses Spa and the Rainforest Room at Senses Spa, are all unlike anything you’ve ever experienced on a ship.

Pro Tip: If you’re sailing on the Disney Wish, be sure to check out Nightingale’s (see photos above). It was my favorite adult place on the ship to grab dream cocktails after dinner.

  1. Don’t Overpack (or Underpack!)

Packing for a Disney Cruise can be tricky—cabin space is limited, and you don’t want to be stuck with too much or too little.

Must-Haves:

  • Cups to refill coffee, fountain soda, water, tea, etc. Disney Cruise provides cups but they’re small, so bringing your own cup from home will save you tons of trips to the refill station.
  • Swimsuits & cover-ups for pool and beach days
  • A light sweater or jacket (even in warm destinations, the ship can be chilly especially at night)

Leave at Home:

  • Power strips, irons, and surge protectors (prohibited for safety reasons)
  • Excessive formal wear (unless you’re dining at Remy or Palo)
  • Towels (Disney provides them for pool and beach use)

Pro Tip: Use packing cubes to stay organized and bring a pop-up laundry hamper to keep your cabin tidy.

  1. Don’t Skip the Open Houses at the Kids’ Clubs

Even if you’re not traveling with kids, the Open House at Disney’s youth clubs is worth a visit. Here’s why:

  • Experience Disney’s Best Themed Spaces- The kids clubs on Disney ships are some of the most immersive areas onboard. From the Marvel Super Hero Academy and Star Wars: Cargo Bay to Andy’s Room from Toy Story, these spaces are packed with Disney magic that adults don’t normally get to see.
  • See Where the Kids Will Be Hanging Out- If you’re traveling with little ones, the Open House lets you explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Edge, and Vibe so you can feel comfortable with where they’ll be spending time. It’s also a great way for kids to get familiar with the space before they attend alone.
  • Chance to Interact with Cast Members- This is a great time to chat with Disney Youth Counselors, ask questions about activities, and even meet characters that sometimes make surprise appearances!

A Disney Cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and avoiding these common mistakes will ensure you make the most of your vacation. From booking activities early to exploring hidden gems onboard, these tips will help you cruise like a pro!

Are you thinking about booking a Disney Cruise vacation? I strongly recommend reaching out to our friends at Academy Travel. Academy Travel is a Diamond EarMarked agency, meaning they have achieved the highest level of Disney’s EarMarked Program, which recognizes top-performing agencies specializing in Disney vacations. The best part? Their services are completely free, so you get expert guidance without paying anything extra. CLICK HERE or the image above to obtain your FREE Disney Cruise Line vacation quote.

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