There is so much to do on a Disney cruise that you will never be bored. There are activities going on from morning to late at night. And there is something for everyone!
Here are 10 things to do on a Disney cruise:
Watch the ship sail – Take the time out of your trip to just stand on a deck and watch the ship move over the water. Grab a spot on one of the upper decks as she moves into port. It’s fascinating to see how they maneuver such a large vessel into a small, specific area.
Take a dip in the pools – There are multiple pools on a Disney cruise ship. On the Dream, they have a Mickey Pool that is about 3.5 feet deep and a Donald pool that is a little over 5 feet deep. They also have an adults only pool with a swim up bar. Kids can have fun on the Mickey Slide and the whole family can enjoy the AquaDuck. There is even a splash area for kids 8 and under. Try to visit early in the morning or around 7-8 pm at night when it is less crowded.
Meet the characters – Of course a Disney cruise would not be complete without meeting characters. They even change outfits throughout the cruise so each time you meet them it is a different photo opportunity! Currently, the Princess and Anna and Elsa meet and greets are hard ticket events so be sure to grab your ticket as soon as your board (the information is in the Navigator). The other characters meet at various times that are listed in your Navigator or on the Disney Cruise Line app. They also pop up unannounced and visit the Kids Clubs.
Eat until you are satisfied – Be sure to bring your appetite on your Disney cruise as everything you can eat is included in the price you paid to sail. This even includes beverages like soda, coffee and tea. They provide a breakfast and lunch buffet and for dinner you will rotate through different themed restaurants. There is also a eatery by the pool and room service is also included. You just need to cover the tips!
Play in the Kids Clubs – Your kids can visit the kids clubs as often as they like during the day. They are usually open from about 9 am to midnight and the kids can drop in and out throughout the day, no reservation needed. There are 3 different kids clubs for ages 3-12, 11-13 and 14-17. Kids 8 and up can sign themselves in and out with parents permission. There is so many things to play with and experience in the clubs, but they also host organized activities including parties with characters! You never know who might stop by the Kids Clubs. Each day there will also be listed open hours when parents and kids can play together.
Watch Broadway type shows – Each evening, there is a different show performed featuring Disney characters, singers and dancers. There are 2 showtimes per night so that you don’t have to choose between dinner or the show. If you aren’t able to see the show in person, they do have them On Demand in the staterooms. They are an older recording of the show, but they are still very good.
Visit the adult clubs – There are multiple themed clubs throughout the Disney cruise ship. Some are just for sitting and talking, some host events like karaoke and trivia. Others have a specific purpose like tasting champaign or watching sports. Take time to visit them all before you decide on your favorite. You might be surprised at which one appeals to you the most.
Attend the parties – On the day your ship sails, there will be a Sailing Away party where the characters and cruise members will sing, dance and engage with the guests. A few nights later, there will be a pirate party where you can dress up, enjoy a show with Pirate Mickey, Captain Hook and others, enjoy a delicious pirate themed buffet and even watch fireworks at sea. On the last night, there is a “See Ya Real Soon” farewell party where the characters perform and then are available for meet and greets afterwards. Be sure to check your Navigator upon arrival for the specific times of the shows.
Play with your family – There is a sports deck complete with a fun mini golf course. You can also play basketball, ping pong and air hockey. There is shuffleboard available on one of the lower decks (be sure to learn how to play before you get on the cruise). Some of the clubs host events for families like karaoke, trivia and dance parties. At least one of the clubs have board games that you can borrow and play together. There are so many ways to engage with your family while on board.
Relax – With so many activities and things to do on the ship, try to find time to just sit and relax. Grab a view of the ocean, put your feet up and just relax as you enjoy the view, the movement and the fact that you are finally on a Disney cruise!
You’ll find so much to do on a Disney cruise that you’ll never want to leave. Trust me!
Kristen, I always look forward to your entries in your vacation fund. It gives me new ideas on ways to save for my vacation fund. However, I noticed that you haven’t made any new entries for 2015. When is your next trip to Disney?