Comparing the Disney Cruise Ships

Posted on Published: 10/19/2023  - Last updated: 02/18/2024

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 .

Disney Dream cruise ship docked at Castaway Cay with pier and small boats

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.

Colorful slide on the Disney Wish

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.

Pink on the Disney Dream

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.

A Disney Cruise Line Stateroom

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.

Three level atrium on the Disney Wish with chandelier and pumpkin tree

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.

Disney Wish docked, a yellow twisty water slide on a ship deck, and Disney Dream docked with small boats in front.

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BeyondCruise

Disney Cruise Ships by Size, Age and Class (2022)

Disney Cruise Line - Disney Dream

Disney Cruise Line has an active fleet of four cruise ships with a further three ships on order ( Disney Wish and two currently unnamed ships).

In this guide, we will cover all the different ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and how they compare to each other.

Introduction to Disney Cruise Line

Before Disney Cruise Line became its own entity, Disney actually tried to work with both Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. However, nothing really came of this and so in 1994 Disney had their first cruise ship plans drawn up.

Disney announced their first cruises would start in 1998 and commissioned familiar cruise shipbuilder, Fincantieri in Italy to build their first two cruise ships ( Disney Magic and Disney Wonder ).

In July 1998, Disney Magic performed the first maiden voyage for the cruise line – sailing from their homeport of Port Canaveral, Florida.

By 2005, Disney was using Los Angeles as their summer homeport for their ships and the gaining popularity of them was outstripping their capacity.

In 2007, they announced the building of two new cruise ships – Disney Dream , which launched in January 2011 and Disney Fantasy which started operations in 2012.

More recently, in 2016 Disney announced a new class of cruise ship – the Triton-class, which would be used for two new upcoming cruise ships. A third ship was added to the order book in 2017 and the first ship of the class, Disney Wis h is expected to join the Disney fleet in July 2022.

Disney Cruise Ships Frequently Asked Questions

What is disney’s largest cruise ship.

The  Disney Fantasy  and  Disney Dream  are the largest cruise ships in the Disney fleet currently.

What is Disney’s smallest cruise ship?

Disney Magic  is the smallest cruise ship in the Disney fleet, carrying 2,700 passengers.

Which is the oldest Disney cruise ship?

Disney Magic  is the oldest ship in the Disney fleet. It started service in 1998.

Which is the newest Disney cruise ship?

The newest Disney ship is  Disney Wish  which is due to enter service in July 2022.

What is the cheapest month to take a Disney cruise?

Generally, Jan-Mar or Nov-Dec are the off-peak season cruises with Disney and therefore cheaper to cruise!

Do you pay for dining on a Disney cruise?

No. Disney cruises are all-inclusive with no surcharges for dining. However, popcorn is extra!

Can you smoke on a Disney cruise?

You have never been allowed to smoke in the Disney staterooms. But they do have designated areas onboard each of their ships.

What Disney cruise ship is the best?

The best Disney cruise is usually the one your kids will beg you to go on! In all seriousness,  Disney Fantasy  has the highest review scores – probably because it is one of the newest with the latest facilities and technologies onboard too!

Are Disney cruise pools heated?

Yes! For your comfort, they are kept at a heat of around 75f.

Why is Disney Cruise Line so expensive?

Disney itself is quite expensive (parks and hotels) – but this is because you are paying for very high-quality experiences with exceptional guest satisfaction.

Their cruises are also more expensive because of the inclusive dining.

Disney Cruise Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

Disney Cruise Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Are all disney cruise ships new builds.

Yes, all Disney cruise ships are brand new builds and purpose-built for Disney Cruise Line.

As Disney has exceptionally high standards you can guess that they would not be happy with taking on an older ship and converting it to their standard.

Therefore, they build each ship to their exact specification. However, they do use the same cruise shipbuilder as other lines such as Carnival and MSC Cruises use, which is Fincantieri in Italy.

Disney Cruise Ships by Class (from newest to oldest)

Final thoughts.

For many, taking a Disney Cruise is an absolute bucket-list item – whether you are a seasoned cruiser or not. Who wouldn’t want to experience the magic of Disney, but at sea?

From their colorful ships to the very high customer service standards that Disney offers, a Disney cruise is perfect for kids (and adults too).

The cruise line has been slower than others to add extra ships, but with three new ships on order, they will be nearly doubling their fleet by late 2025!

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Disney Cruise Ships

The Best Disney Cruise Ships in 2018

The Best Disney Cruise Ships

Disney Cruise Ships    |    New Disney Cruise Ships    |    Disney Cruise Overview     Disney Wish    |    Disney Fantasy    |    Disney Wonder    |    Disney Magic    |    Disney Dream |    Disney Treasure

The Best Disney Cruise Ships 2018

Introducing my detailed guide to each Disney Cruise Line ship!

In one place, I have brought together everything there is to know about each Disney Cruise ship.

In this complete Disney Cruise Ship guide, you’ll learn about different stateroom categories, dining options, all the entertainment and fun, and so much more.

The Disney Cruise Line fleet consists of five ships: Disney Magic , Disney Wonder , Disney Dream,   Disney Fantasy, and the newest addition, the Disney Wish .

Additionally, a sixth ship, Disney Treasure , has been announced and is expected to be seaworthy some time in 2024.

The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are sister ships, as are the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.  Both pairs of sister ships are similar in size as well as some features but they are definitely not twins.

Even though the sister’s have similarities, each of Disney’s five ships features different designs, deck plans , restaurants, entertainment, and activities onboard to make every voyage unique.

Disney Cruise Line is now well-established as a leader in the highly competitive cruise industry, having set itself apart by providing the most unique sailing experience on the seas.

Now...let's meet the ships!

The Disney Cruise Line Fleet of Ships

Use the following Disney Cruise ships comparison chart to help learn which is the best Disney Cruise ship for your vacation.

How to Use this Disney Cruise Ships Comparison Chart

You can use this handy information sheet to compare Disney ships by size, capacity, tonnage, staff, and age.

While this is all useful information to have, I highly recommend you click through the button on each ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet to get a fully-detailed guide that goes way beyond the sizes of the ships.

Compare Disney Cruise Ships

Disney magic.

Disney Magic Cruise Ship

Image: Flickr

  • Passenger Capacity: 2700
  • Staterooms : 877
  • Entered Service : July 1998
  • Sister Ship : Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder Cruise Ship

Img: Flickr

  • Passenger Capacity : 2700
  • Staterooms : 875
  • Entered Service : August 1999
  • Sister Ship : Disney Magic

Disney Dream

Disney Dream Cruise Ship

  • Passenger Capacity : 4,000
  • Crew : 1,400
  • Staterooms : 1,250
  • Entered Service : January 2011
  • Sister Ship : Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship

  • Entered Service : March 2012
  • Sister Ship : Disney Dream

Disney Wish

Disney Wish Cruise Ship

  • Staterooms : 1,254
  • Entered Service : July 2022

Disney Treasure

Disney Treasure Cruise Ship

  • Estimated Passenger Capacity : ~4,000
  • Estimated Crew : ~1,400
  • Estimated Staterooms : ~1,250
  • Expected Maiden Voyage : 2024

Three New Disney Cruise Ships

Disney cruise line has announced three new ships.

I nspiring speculation and excitement amongst crazed DCL fans like us, Disney Cruise Line has announced they are building three new cruise ships .

New Disney Cruise Ships are coming! This is what they will look like

Image: Disney Parks

Pin for Later

Disney Cruise Ships: All You Need to Know!

The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Summer Hull

After decades of success making families smile and laugh at its theme parks, Disney dipped its toes into the world of cruising in 1998. Disney didn't just copy another cruise line's model for success or slap its name on the side of an existing ship. It created its own brand of cruising.

Disney went so far into charting its own path as to get special approval from the U.S. Coast Guard for its ships' lifeboats to be yellow instead of regulation orange, to tie into the colors of Mickey himself — black, red, white and yellow.

Now, Disney Cruise Line has five ships sailing in those signature colors, along with three more on order. In a normal year, those five ships take tens of thousands of families on sailings to the Caribbean , Mexico, Alaska, Europe, Bermuda, Bahamas, through the Panama Canal and even to Australia and New Zealand.

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

differences of disney cruise ships

Having sailed four of Disney Cruise Line's five ships, I can say the experience is indeed special — especially if you have kids. But Disney's not a one-trick cruise line that's only good for one age group. It offers kids clubs and activities to suit babies through teens and has several adults-only areas of the ship . Its newest ship, Disney Wish , provides more cool spaces for adults than any previous vessel.

Disney's attention to detail transfers to its voyages on the sea. But unlike at the Disney theme parks, which can be a bit complicated to navigate, long lines and complex strategies are rarely a part of the Disney cruise experience.

Get the free planning help of a Disney vacation planner via TPG's partner, Mouse Counselors .

What TPG loves about Disney Cruise Line

  • Broadway-caliber shows and first-run movies.
  • Disney-level service and attention to detail.
  • High-quality Disney character interactions and kids clubs.
  • Innovative, included rotational dining.

What we could do without

  • Disney cruises are expensive.
  • The onboard Wi-Fi is not the fastest, especially on ships that haven't been upgraded. And it's not cheap.

differences of disney cruise ships

Disney Cruise Line fleet

While Disney may be a household name, Disney Cruise Line is actually a small line. It currently sails just five ships, compared to 27 at its family-friendly competitor Royal Caribbean .

Of the five, two are smaller ships, and three are larger.

The largest ships in Disney's fleet are Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, at 1,115 feet long and 14 decks high, and Disney Wish , at 1,119 feet and 15 decks high.

These three ships each have a passenger capacity of 4,000 people spread out across approximately 1,250 cabins. The overwhelming majority of cabins on these ships have an ocean view or private verandah, with only 10%-12% being windowless inside cabins. (On its oldest four ships, these interior rooms have a "magical porthole" that displays a live feed from outside to replicate a window.)

Disney Treasure , expected to join the fleet in 2024, will be in the same larger Triton class of ships as Disney Wish.

differences of disney cruise ships

Disney Wish is currently a workhorse of short three- and four-night sailings from Port Canaveral , Florida, to the Bahamas, home to Disney's private island , Castaway Cay.

Disney Fantasy often sails weeklong cruises out of Florida. With the addition of Disney Wish to the fleet, Disney Dream now spends its summer across the Atlantic, offering European cruises from May to September, then spending much of the rest of the year based out of Fort Lauderdale.

The smaller two ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet are Disney Wonder and the line's first ship, Disney Magic .

These two ships are 984 feet long and 11 decks high, and each has the capacity for 2,713 passengers across 875 staterooms. On these two smaller ships, 70% of passenger cabins have ocean views or verandahs.

Disney Wonder is often on the move and currently splits its time among Alaska , the South Pacific, Hawaii, California, Mexico and beyond. Disney Magic spends part of its year based out of Galveston, Texas, or New Orleans and much of the rest based out of Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

Related: Best destinations you can sail to on a Disney cruise

differences of disney cruise ships

Disney Cruise Line destinations and itineraries

Disney Cruise Line has about 370 annual departures scheduled that range from two- to 15-night sailings. Many new-to-Disney itineraries have recently become available as the line is adding new ships for the first time in a decade.

Disney Cruise Line destinations include:

  • New Zealand
  • Pacific Coast
  • South Pacific

Disney Wish has, by far, the highest number of annual sailings, with 105 three- and four-night cruises departing from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas. These sailings all go to Disney's private island, Castaway Cay; some also stop in Nassau, Bahamas.

Some Disney cruises do what's called a "double dip" and make two stops at the private island, where you can step ashore without leaving the Disney bubble.

differences of disney cruise ships

Pro tip: If you go to Castaway Cay, rent a bike for a little exercise and a self-guided tour of the island. Or, you can run the at-your-pace 5K that morning around the island.

Coming in summer 2024 , Disney will have a second exclusive beach destination in the Bahamas — Lighthouse Point.

This won't be an entire private island like Castaway Cay, but it will be an exclusive beachfront space designed for Disney Cruise Line with many similar offerings to Castaway. Disney Magic, Disney Wonder and Disney Fantasy will call on this new destination for the first time in 2024.

differences of disney cruise ships

Related: Best tips and tricks for sailing with Disney Cruise Line

Who sails Disney Cruise Line?

Let's start with the obvious: Families love Disney Cruise Line.

The ultimate sweet spot for taking a Disney cruise starts when a child is at least 3 years old and potty trained (the criteria that get them into the included kids clubs) and lasts until they outgrow their love of Disney characters. Remember, Disney now includes the "Star Wars" and Marvel brands and offers themed cruises featuring those characters, too.

A Disney cruise costs more than a similar cruise on a line like Royal Caribbean , so it's easiest to justify the expense when your kids love Disney the most.

So, yes, the stereotype that Disney Cruise Line is full of families is 100% correct.

You'll see many families with kids in those preschool, elementary and middle school years. But you'll also see families with little babies (the minimum age is 6 months on most sailings, 1 year on Panama Canal and transatlantic sailings), tweens, teens, college-age kids and even grandparents who have made a Disney cruise an enjoyable multigenerational travel tradition.

Related: Comparing Disney, Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruises for families

differences of disney cruise ships

You'll also see cruisers who love Disney regardless of age and are proud to wear their Mickey ears while hearing the first seven notes of the "When You Wish Upon a Star" melody blown from the ship's massive horn.

Just like you don't need kids to have a great time at Disney World or Disneyland, you can happily cruise as adults without offspring on Disney Cruise Line. All the ships have active adults-only sun decks, pool and lounges. Disney Wish especially invested in its adult offerings with an infinity pool, along with more bars spread around the ship instead of being clustered into one main area.

differences of disney cruise ships

Disney Cruise Line cabins and suites

At a basic level, Disney Cruise Line offers five main types of cabins across the fleet. In its simplified version, the types of cabins on a Disney cruise include:

  • Windowless inside cabins
  • Ocean-view cabins
  • Verandah cabins (with private balconies)
  • Verandah cabins with concierge service
  • Suites with concierge service

These cabins start at 169 square feet for a standard inside cabin and go up to a two-story, 1,966-square-foot Tower Suite on Disney Wish .

differences of disney cruise ships

Unless you are OK with the smallest space on the ship or have a budget for the largest, the sweet spot for price and comfort on Disney Cruise Line vessels is probably the cabins that are around 204 square feet and usually come with a queen bed, single sleeper sofa and upper-berth pull-down bed and a split bath.

This split bathroom situation places a sink and the shower/tub combo in one bathroom and the toilet and another sink in the other. Each has its own separate door, so someone could use the toilet/sink room while another takes a shower, all in private and at the same time.

You'll find this cabin layout within the Deluxe Inside Staterooms, Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms and Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah categories.

The Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms and Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah add about 40 more square feet to the equation. If you want the largest within those room categories, search for rooms that can hold five people on the Disney Cruise Line website.

differences of disney cruise ships

Pro tip: You can ask your cabin host for cartoon bedding for the kid's bed if you think your child will be excited to come back from dinner to one of their Disney favorites.

You can connect many of the cabins on the ship , which is often a much more economical solution for a family looking for more sleeping space (and bathrooms) than upgrading to a multibedroom suite. Roughly speaking, a family of four will pay about 50% more for two cabins than they will for everyone to stay in one cabin of the same size.

Related: 7 nights. 4 people. 1 cruise ship cabin. Can we survive?

If you are going all-out on a particular trip, or are simply working with a larger budget, Disney concierge suites are special.

The smallest available room with this service is the Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah, which isn't all that different from the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah, other than the included concierge service. From there, you can go up to the one- or two-bedroom suites.

Be prepared for sticker shock, though, as these suites will almost certainly be near or over five figures on many sailings.

While pricey, Disney concierge service eliminates almost all of the potential pain points of a Disney cruise (not that there are many pain points to begin with).

differences of disney cruise ships

Disney concierge service gets you access to the Disney Concierge Lounge, which has food offerings multiple times per day and a fully stocked fridge with sodas, juices and bottles of water.

In the evenings, you'll find included beer, wine and spirits in the lounge — which you can also take with you as you head out to dinner or to enjoy the view from the deck.

The Concierge Lounge also has its own private deck, and Disney characters have been known to make a private appearance there during the cruise. (Don't worry, you'll get a heads-up.)

differences of disney cruise ships

Related: Is Disney Cruise Line concierge service worth it?

You also have your own check-in area at the port and are among the first to board the ship, which can mean extra time to enjoy having the waterslides to yourself. At the end of the cruise, you can have a private elevator that takes you down to be some of the first off the ship — which should protect you from a long line to say goodbye.

There are other perks of the concierge level, too, such as early front-row seating at shows, included popcorn and the ability to submit your request for meal reservations at Palo or Remy, cabanas on Castaway Cay, spa treatments, character meet-and-greets or whatever else you wish before other guests. These can be made for you starting 120 days before your sailing, which is before all other guests except those with the highest elite status tier in the Castaway Club .

differences of disney cruise ships

Passengers on their first Disney cruise don't get to make those reservations until 75 days out if they aren't in the concierge level. The reality is the hottest items are often booked up by then, especially on shorter cruises when there's less time to do everything.

Those in the concierge level in one-bedroom suites and higher can also order room service from the restaurants to their cabin, which means you can have a hot breakfast on your verandah if you wish instead of the regular continental options available to most guests.

differences of disney cruise ships

If you are on the fence about concierge service, it's arguably most valuable when you are on a shorter cruise, have some specific popular must-have items on your reservation wish list or want someone else to take care of everything. You can also inquire about discounted upgrades at the port, assuming rooms are left unsold on your voyage.

Pro tip: Regardless of your cabin, bring magnetic Mickey or nautical-themed decor for the entrance, as most of the cabin doors are magnetic. Decorating is a fun tradition on a Disney cruise.

Related: Review of sailing in a suite with Disney concierge service

Disney Cruise Line restaurants and dining options

You will not go hungry on a Disney cruise. From room service to evening dinners, meals are (mostly) all included.

Rotational dining

On each Disney ship, three main dining rooms serve as dinner restaurants that participate in rotational dining. Each ship has its own lineup of themed rotational restaurants, but the concept remains the same on each.

Each night, your tablemates and servers will move from one restaurant to the next as a team. This way, the servers get to know that you always want to start with a glass of red wine, or your kids' food needs to come ASAP so you can take them to the kids club as soon as they finish, or (in my case) your daughter wants a side of barbecue sauce with ... everything.

differences of disney cruise ships

You must choose between an early and a late dinner time, with your showtime opposite your dining time. Some restaurants, such as Animator's Palate, are found on multiple ships, while others are unique to one ship, such as Tiana's Place on Disney Wonder and all of the rotational restaurants found on Disney Wish .

Included restaurants on Disney Magic

  • Animator's Palate
  • Lumiere's
  • Rapunzel's Royal Table

Included restaurants on Disney Wonder

  • Tiana's Place
  • Triton's

Included restaurants on Disney Dream

  • Enchanted Garden
  • Royal Palace

Included restaurants on Disney Fantasy

  • Royal Court

Included restaurants on Disney Wish

  • Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure
  • Worlds of Marvel

At these restaurants, you can order whatever you want on the menu at no extra charge, with a few exceptions (for example, alcohol and specialty drinks cost extra).

While many guests dress up a bit for dinner (compared to their afternoon pool deck attire), most stay relatively casual for the rotational dining restaurants. Disney does not impose a specific dress-up requirement.

differences of disney cruise ships

Disney cruise ships offer many other dining options beyond the three included themed restaurants — most included, some not.

Room service

Room service is mostly free (other than sodas or alcohol), though the menu is limited if you aren't staying in a concierge-level cabin. Still, it's free room service, so I'm not one to complain.

Pro tip: Fill the breakfast card out the night before and hang it on your stateroom to get breakfast exactly when you want it the next morning.

differences of disney cruise ships

And you haven't lived until your kids learn how to call and order free Mickey ice cream bars to the cabin ... every night (just be sure and add a tip).

Buffet and grab-and-go

Your Disney cruise will also include a buffet known as Cabanas on the original four ships and Marceline Market on Disney Wish. The buffet is usually open for breakfast and lunch, though not in the evening hours.

differences of disney cruise ships

In addition to the buffet, a few grab-and-go quick-service restaurants on the pool deck serve salads, chili, pizza, barbecue and more, depending on which ship you're sailing.

Don't miss these options, as some are quite good. They are typically open from late morning until later into the evening.

differences of disney cruise ships

Room service, the buffet and the on-deck food counter dining options don't cost extra and are available to you in addition to or instead of your rotational dining.

differences of disney cruise ships

You'll also find included ice cream on one of the upper decks. A pro-level hack is to get Mickey churro waffles from the buffet in the morning (only available some mornings) and add vanilla ice cream for a vacation-worthy breakfast.

differences of disney cruise ships

Extra-cost, adults-only restaurants

At the top of the "costs extra" list are the restaurants Palo (found on all five ships, though it's Palo Steakhouse on Disney Wish), Remy (on Dream and Fantasy) and Enchante (only on Disney Wish).

Remy is a fancy adults-only French restaurant that costs $125 per person for dinner (more if you order drinks). This is the type of place where men need jackets and women are expected to wear dresses, pantsuits or a skirt and blouse. Enchante on Disney Wish is similar — you're dressing up for these meals.

differences of disney cruise ships

Palo is also fancy, though a notch less fancy than Remy. You'll see jackets and dresses in Palo, but you can also get by with nice jeans if you want. This adults-only restaurant serves Northern Italian fare and starts at about $45 per person for a multicourse brunch or dinner, though you can also order a la carte for dinner, which could cost more or less, depending on your order.

I can say with 100% certainty that if you enjoy a nice meal, this is worth the extra $45 once during your cruise . From the breadbasket to the dessert, it's all amazing. You'll gain 5 pounds, but you won't regret a bite.

These reservations are hard to get, especially for brunch, so you'll want to make them the second you are eligible and keep checking back for cancellations if you miss out the first time.

differences of disney cruise ships

Coffee shops and snack shops

On a Disney cruise, the snacks and pastries you'll see in the coffee shop or kiosk are all included, but the specialty coffee will cost extra. Drink prices are roughly similar to Starbucks, if not a notch lower. Be sure and ask for the Cafe Fanatic card if you're a regular, as your sixth drink will be free.

differences of disney cruise ships

In addition to the included soft-serve ice cream and Mickey bars available via room service, your ship may have some shops with extra-fee ice cream. This can confuse kids, so I want to warn you beforehand. On Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish, you'll find an ice cream shop stuffed with candies, gelato and ice cream — all for an extra charge.

differences of disney cruise ships

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy also have a juice bar that costs extra.

The exact bars will vary by vessel, but you can expect spots like a wine and Champagne bar, a pub, a laid-back lounge and a bar with live entertainment.

These bars are a lot of fun and are not to be missed if you like live music or a nice drink at the end of the day. Keep an eye out in your app for when and where the happy hours are on board if you want to save a few dollars on your drinks. Some bars also offer a sommelier bin where you get a nice glass of wine at a discounted price — as long as you put the bartender in charge of choosing your drink.

differences of disney cruise ships

Some of the drink-tasting classes that you book in advance can be a good value if you're a fan of the drink on offer and are interested in learning a little bit while you sip. You'll want to book these before sailing, as many do sell out.

differences of disney cruise ships

Food on Castaway Cay

If your cruise takes you to Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, you're in luck, as there's plenty of included food to eat there, too.

Just like on board, some of the food on Castaway is included, while alcohol and specialty drinks are not. The Cookie's and Cookie's Too lunch shacks on the island are both included, so load up on hot dogs, barbecue, hamburgers, fries and all the fixings. Vegetarian options are available.

While the food options here are somewhat basic, they still make for a fun and free meal.

differences of disney cruise ships

However, if you don't like what is on offer on the island, you can always hop back on your ship for lunch and then continue your afternoon on the island after you eat.

differences of disney cruise ships

Entertainment and activities on a Disney cruise

A valid reason to want to sail with Disney is the onboard fun that awaits — especially for those who love Disney characters and stories.

Theaters and shows

Each Disney cruise ship features two theaters. In the massive Walt Disney Theatre, you'll enjoy Broadway-caliber evening shows such as "Beauty and the Beast," "Frozen," "Tangled," "Disney Dreams," "The Golden Mickeys" and more. If you want a good seat, arrive about 30 minutes early since seating is first come, first served.

differences of disney cruise ships

The Buena Vista Theatre screens first-run Disney films. These will be the same films still showing in theaters on land. If you happen to be at sea when a new Disney movie premieres on land, you'll also get that same first look at sea.

Pirate Night is a staple on many Disney cruises in the Caribbean. On that themed night, expect everyone to be dressed in their pirate-y best for the evening, so pack accordingly. Your dinner will also have a pirate theme, followed by a fun show up on deck, complete with fireworks.

differences of disney cruise ships

Pro tip: If you plan to stay up late for Pirate Night, try to work in a nap that afternoon so you don't miss out on the nighttime fun.

Game shows, karaoke, bingo and more

The extensive lineup of interactive game shows, trivia, karaoke, dance parties, bingo and more listed in the Disney cruise app are worth checking out. Some of these are adults-only, while others are fun for the whole family. Most are included in the price of the cruise, though bingo does cost extra — and you could win real money.

differences of disney cruise ships

Other interior attractions and activities

Meeting Disney characters is a fun part of a Disney cruise.

You can make reservations to meet the popular princesses, but most characters are easy to walk up to and meet via a short line. Or, even better, you often see them roaming about the ship at unexpected times.

differences of disney cruise ships

You can work off some of those treats and drinks at the onboard fitness center on each ship.

The Senses Spa & Salon is a full-service spa with everything from massages to pedicures and hair care. Promotions are available if you book more than one treatment. If you have a Disney Visa card , you can also save 20% on select onboard services.

Pro tip: The showers in this part of the ship are full-size, in case you are getting a bit claustrophobic in the shower in your cabin.

differences of disney cruise ships

If you like getting away to relax, look at purchasing access to the Rainforest Room for heated stone loungers, aromatherapy showers and even hot tubs on the larger ships. You can buy a one-day or full-cruise pass to this area of the spa, but get a tour first as the layout and inclusions in this space vary dramatically from ship to ship.

differences of disney cruise ships

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Little cruisers can be transformed into a princess or pirate at sea at the onboard Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, which does themed kid makeovers and sells costumes as part of the package. You'll need an appointment; expect to pay $100 to $200 for most packages.

This is a fun thing to do before meeting a princess, before a more formal night or anytime you want to see a huge smile on your kid's face. If you have a princess dress or outfit from home you want to use or reuse, you can purchase a cheaper package at Bibbidi Bobbidi.

differences of disney cruise ships

Decktop attractions

Waterslides.

All of Disney Cruise Line's ships have some kind of waterslide on board.

The AquaDuck waterslide on Dream and Fantasy takes riders in single or double tubes 765 feet from Deck 12 up and down, through the forward funnel and on a four-deck drop. It's pretty epic. AquaMouse on Disney Wish is also an inner tube-based ride and is not to be missed.

These lines can get long, so I recommend riding first thing when you board if the port is warm enough. Nighttime rides usually have short waits, too.

Disney Magic has the most thrilling waterslide in the fleet, called AquaDunk, and Disney Wonder has its own waterslide in the AquaLab splash area.

differences of disney cruise ships

Each Disney ship has multiple pools, though if you've never been on a cruise, you may be initially shocked at how small they are — and how busy they can get.

As with the waterslides, we recommend enjoying these first thing when you board if you want to try them without crowds. Otherwise, you won't find so many people in the pools on port days, early in the morning and right before dinner. There are thousands of people on the ship and only a few small pools, so plan accordingly.

Each ship has a pool and hot tub area for adults 18 and up. It can also get busy, but typically less busy than the family area. Select ships also offer an in-pool bar area for adults.

differences of disney cruise ships

The adult sun deck is a nice place to grab a chair and relax, even if you have no intention of getting in the water.

differences of disney cruise ships

Splash pads

Your little one has to be potty trained to use the onboard pools. The option for those still in swim diapers is some splash areas, such as Nemo's Reef and Dory's Reef.

differences of disney cruise ships

Sports deck

If you want to be more active, head to your ship's sports deck to play basketball, foosball, miniature golf and more. You may even have some sports simulator options beyond your traditional in-person fun.

differences of disney cruise ships

Children's programs

As a parent, my favorite part of a Disney cruise might be the included kids programs that children actually want to attend. If the kids are happy for a few hours, the parents can actually relax, too.

Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab for children ages 3–12

All five Disney ships have amazing spaces for kids in the 3-to-12-year-old range in the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab.

Here you'll find video games, an indoor slide, fun programs and games with the staff, arts and crafts, surprise character visits and more. Your kids need to be potty trained to stay in this club, so use that as motivation for a kid approaching 3 years old before your next cruise.

differences of disney cruise ships

Your kids don't need an appointment to pop in here; they can come anytime from open to close — and the club stays open pretty late.

Parents can stay with kids and play during open hours on the first day and select times on other dates, but most of the time, the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab are kids-only. Your kids will check in and out by scanning a special MagicBand that also tracks where they are within the kids clubs.

Disney Wish has the added perk in the kids club of a slide that takes the kids straight from the main atrium and into the fun.

differences of disney cruise ships

Know that once your child turns 8, you have the option of giving them self-checkout privileges. While kids up to 12 are welcome in the main Oceaneer Club, they may start moving up to the tween club by the time they are 10 years old.

Edge tween club for children ages 11–14

When your kid outgrows the fun in the main kids club, don't worry. Edge is waiting just upstairs.

Technically, Edge is for kids ages 11-14, but you can get your 10-year-old in with permission — and once they figure that out, it's probably all over for the "little kid club."

Edge is a much smaller space, but tweens have tons of fun playing video games, having dance parties, doing crafts, playing trivia games and more with their newfound cruise friends.

differences of disney cruise ships

This club does not utilize parent sign-in and -out, so you need to trust your kid if they are coming to Edge. If your 10-to-12-year-old child visits Edge, they can also play at the Oceaneer Lab and Oceaneer Club, so they have options.

differences of disney cruise ships

Vibe teen club for children ages 14–17

Get ready to be jealous of this one. On Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, the teen club has its own set of small pools at the front of the ship.

Inside all versions of the teen club, Vibe, you'll find a tech-friendly world with loungers, dance parties, smoothies and other teen-approved fun. Some of the coolest inside space on Disney cruise ships is dedicated to teens ages 14-17, but you can request for your child to attend this club starting at 13 years old.

differences of disney cruise ships

'It's a small world' nursery for children 6 months to 3 years old

While the three previously mentioned kids clubs are free and do not require reservations, the nursery operates differently. You will need to make reservations, and the fee is $4.50 per half-hour for the first child and $4 per half-hour for each additional child.

differences of disney cruise ships

What to know before you go

Required documents.

The specific documents you will need will vary by cruise destination. Having a passport is always a good idea, but it's not technically required on all Disney cruises. For example, round-trip cruises originating in Port Canaveral, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, San Diego, New Orleans, New York and San Juan, Puerto Rico, often do not require a passport.

Passports, when required, must be valid for at least six months. For cruises from international ports, you'll need a passport. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Related: Tips for getting a child's passport

Disney Cruise Line adds a service gratuity of $14.50 per person per day to final bills. If you are unhappy with the service you receive, you can lower this amount. Of course, you can visit guest services and adjust it upward, too.

To give an idea of the cost, a four-person family on a four-night cruise would pay $232 in recommended tips. The amount is split among your team of dining room servers who quickly learned your kids' preferences for dinner and your cabin hosts who made your room look like magic while you were out enjoying yourself.

differences of disney cruise ships

An 18% gratuity is added to onboard spa, bar, beverage, wine and deck service tabs. You can always add an additional gratuity for any of your services or servers.

While room service is free, it's customary to add a few dollars of tip when you sign the "bill."

While some gratuity is included at Palo and Remy, you'll likely want to add an additional tip if you enjoyed the service. If you stay in a concierge-level room or suite, it is customary to tip the Concierge Lounge hosts at the end of your cruise a recommended amount of $8 per night per guest.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships

Disney Cruise Line's Wi-Fi, Connect@Sea, is in the process of being upgraded, so speed, bandwidth and cost vary by ship.

If you are on a ship that charges by day instead of by the amount of data used, expect the prices to vary from $12-$36 per day, depending on the speed you select. There are often discounts for buying Wi-Fi access for the length of the cruise.

If you are on a ship that still charges by the amount of data used, we recommend not doing that and connecting either when you are in port or via a plan from your cellphone provider.

Related: What's the best international phone plan right now?

Carry-on drinks policy

Guests 21 years and older may bring a maximum of two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne (no larger than 750 milliliters) or six beers (no larger than 12 ounces) on board at the beginning of the voyage and at each port of call. These beverages must be packed in carry-on (not checked) bags or luggage. You can keep drinks chilled in the small fridge in your cabin.

Guests wishing to consume wine or Champagne that they have brought on board in one of the dining rooms will be charged a corkage fee of $26 per bottle.

differences of disney cruise ships

Smoking policy

Smoking is permitted only in designated deck areas. It's forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies, and those who violate this rule will face a $250 cleaning fee.

For an additional fee, Disney ships offer full-service laundry and dry cleaning services that will pick up and deliver clean clothes to your cabin.

Ships also provide 24-hour, self-service guest laundry facilities equipped with washers and dryers, along with detergent and complimentary ironing equipment. You pay for the facilities by using your Key to the World card. These services can get busy during sea days on longer cruises, so plan accordingly.

Electrical outlets

All cabins are equipped with multiple 110-volt outlets, which are standard in the U.S. and Canada. Cabins on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are equipped with a combination of 110- and 220-volt (European) outlets.

Small electrical appliances such as electric shavers, curling irons and flat irons with standard North American plugs will function on board; 110-volt items should not exceed 1,500 watts, and 220-volt items should not exceed 2,000 watts. A hair dryer is provided in every cabin for your convenience, but you may bring your own as long as it meets the guidelines above.

The currency on Disney Cruise Line ships, regardless of location, is the U.S. dollar.

When you are on the ship, you will not need cash or a credit card — all incidentals, purchases and services will be charged to your cabin folio. Your Key to the World card (or your DisneyBand+ on Disney Wish ) serves as your onboard payment method. The only exception is if you want to tip a crew member in cash.

In port, you may wish to carry cash or a credit card to buy snacks and souvenirs or to tip your tour guide.

Drinking age

For most Disney sailings, the drinking age on board is 21.

However, on round-trip cruises departing European countries with a lower drinking age, passengers 18-20 years of age can drink alcohol on board with signed parental consent. For round-trip cruises from Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland and Brisbane, guests 18 years of age and older may purchase and consume alcoholic beverages without parental consent.

differences of disney cruise ships

During the day, people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and you're bound for the top deck, that means looking like you're going to the beach. T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside) are fine.

During the evenings, dining attire in the three main dining restaurants is "cruise casual," meaning no swimwear or tank tops, but you don't have to put on a party dress. That said, many guests do dress up a bit in the evening, but it's not required unless you are dining in Palo, Remy or Enchante.

Cruises that are seven nights or longer schedule one "formal night" — though even then, it's only encouraged, not required. On that night, you will see suits, sports coats, cocktail dresses and similar from some guests.

Pro tip: Be sure and pack that pirate gear for Pirate Night.

Related: What to pack for your 1st cruise

Disney Cruise Line loyalty program

Disney Cruise Line has a simple loyalty program, the Castaway Club , with four "elite status" levels that you earn based on how many cruises you've taken with Disney. A three-night and 10-night cruise both count as one sailing for these purposes.

  • Silver: One completed cruise
  • Gold: Five completed cruises
  • Platinum: 10 completed cruises
  • Pearl: 25 completed cruises

Related: The TPG guide to cruise line loyalty programs

This isn't the kind of loyalty program where you earn free cruises the way you earn free flights with airline miles. Instead, as you go up in status, you earn perks and earlier access to booking cruises and activities — which is key for getting those hard-to-snag adult dining or Castaway Cay cabana reservations

differences of disney cruise ships

Silver members

  • Book new cruise itineraries one day before the general public and book onboard activities 90 days before sailing.
  • Get a "welcome back aboard" gift (such as a bag), have access to a Castaway Club members-only line when boarding and access to a Castaway Club direct phone number.
  • Select port arrival time with online check-in starting 33 days before the general public.

Gold members

  • All of those perks, but you can book new sailings two days before the general public and can book onboard activities 105 days before sailing.
  • On eight-night and longer voyages, Gold Castaway Club members are also invited to a private reception with special entertainment. There are also select merchandise discounts available to Gold members and higher.
  • Select port arrival time with online check-in starting 35 days before the general public.

Platinum members

  • All of those perks, but you can book new sailings three days before the general public and can book onboard activities 120 days before sailing.
  • Priority check-in at the cruise terminal.
  • Complimentary evening dinner at Palo or Palo Steakhouse for themselves and everyone in the cabin age 18 and older.
  • Select port arrival time with online check-in starting 38 days before the general public.

Pearl members

  • All of those perks, but you can book new sailings four days before the general public and can book onboard activities 123 days before sailing.
  • Exclusive cruise terminal check-in (where available)
  • Unlimited Digital Photo Package.
  • Select port arrival time with online check-in starting 40 days before the general public.

How much does a Disney cruise cost?

Magic ain't cheap, and Disney cruises are expensive. They aren't the priciest voyages out there, but they will cost more than cruises with family-friendly competitors such as Royal Caribbean by a noticeable margin.

For a family of four, the cheapest Disney cruise currently available (not counting the two-night cruises in Australia and New Zealand) is about $2,500. An ocean view will add about $90 and a verandah will add about $500.

On these shortest cruises, concierge-level cabins and access start at a little over $5,000 for a family of four.

Those sorts of prices will only be available during the offseason, such as in mid-to-late January and early February or for repositioning cruises as the ship moves from, say, Puerto Rico to Florida. That same cruise during spring break can cost double or more, so the more date flexibility you have, the better.

A seven-night cruise in the Caribbean will likely start around $5,000 for a family of four. Expect Alaska and Europe cruises to start at $5,000 to $6,000 for inside cabins for a week, and prices go up for longer sailings and upgraded cabins.

differences of disney cruise ships

You can save money on your next Disney cruise by putting a $250 deposit down while you are at sea on a previous Disney cruise. It's a popular way to get 10% off your next cruise.

Another way to save on a Disney cruise is to look at a one-way repositioning sailing , as those often price lower than other similar cruises. For example, the cruise line may need to end a cruise in a particular port to reposition the ship to do some sailings from there. You'll have to get yourself back home from that port, but you may save on the cruise in the process.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on a cruise

How to book

You can book your Disney cruise directly with Disney Cruise Line either over the phone or online, but I'd argue you shouldn't.

Cruises are easy to enjoy but can be complicated to plan if you are new to this type of travel. This is an industry where a travel agent is still a good call. You want someone who can help you pick the right cabin type and location for your group and keep track of when you can snag those onboard activities you really want.

When the wave of pandemic-related cruise cancellations hit in 2020, I was so grateful to have a travel agent — instead of me — spending time dealing with the cruise line.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

Another reason to consider going through a travel agent is to get onboard credit. Some travel agents will offer onboard credit based on the amount you spend on your Disney cruise. This is credit you can use toward drinks, spa treatments, excursions or anything else you can charge to your room.

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

Generally speaking, the sooner you book a Disney cruise after it goes on sale, the better, as prices usually only go in one direction — up.

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your credit card points when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases and maybe even offers some built-in travel protections .

  • The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers 3 points per dollar on travel and dining and an annual up-to-$300 travel credit.
  • The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns 2 points per dollar on travel.
  • The Disney Premier Visa Card is also a good option, specifically with Disney Cruise Line, as it gives you access to a 0% introductory annual percentage rate for six months following the purchase date on eligible Disney vacation packages, such as a Disney cruise (then a variable APR of 19.24% to 28.24% applies). The card also gets you 10% in savings on some onboard activities and packages while at Castaway Cay.

Related: How to save money on booking a Disney cruise

Bottom line

Whether you are on a three-night trip to Castaway Cay or a bigger crossing to the South Pacific, a Disney cruise is a special vacation that actually feels like a vacation.

The classic styling of the original four ships, the modern storybook styling of Disney Wish, the vast number of inclusions, the rotational dining, waterslides, private island, fun kids clubs, Disney characters, high-caliber entertainment and Disney service shine through.

You'll certainly pay more for the privilege of sailing with Mickey and Minnie than with some other family-friendly lines. But for those with kids in that Disney age range, or for adults who know and trust the Disney brand, it's hard to go wrong in choosing Disney Cruise Line for your next vacation.

More stories to help you plan your next cruise:

  • Best Disney ships for everyone
  • Everything we know about Disney Treasure, joining DCL in 2024
  • Everything you need to know about Disney Wish
  • Best credit cards for booking a cruise
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Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation? Here's what you need to know about the five Disney cruise ships, including the new Disney Wish.

differences of disney cruise ships

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

differences of disney cruise ships

Disney Magic

Disney wonder, disney dream, disney fantasy, disney wish.

There's plenty that sets Disney Cruise Line apart from its competitors — and not just the endless soft-serve ice cream, family-friendly staterooms, or being able to hug Mickey Mouse on your way to a Disney princess-themed restaurant. All five Disney cruise ships are elegantly designed and provide high-end services. With the best activities to keep kids entertained throughout the day, along with relaxing escapes for adults, Disney cruises offer plenty for the entire family.

Disney Cruise Line's loyalty program, Castaway Club, offers members exclusive benefits before and during their sailings.

From immersive dining adventures to Disney's first-ever attraction at sea, these ships present truly magical vacations that visit a number of exciting destinations. Disney Cruise Line's ports of call include places in Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, Alaska, and, of course, Disney's private Bahamian island, Castaway Cay. And depending on when you cruise, you may be able to pick from themed itineraries for Halloween and Christmas. Here's what you need to know about Disney cruise ships, including the newest vessel, the Disney Wish .

Meet the Expert

As  Travel + Leisure' s on-staff Disney expert, I visit Disney theme parks, resorts, and cruise ships several times every year. I most recently experienced the magic of Disney Cruise Line on the inaugural sailing for the Disney Wish in 2022.

Inaugural Year: 1998

Ship Class: Magic Class

Number of Staterooms: 875

As the original Disney Cruise Line vessel, the Disney Magic retains its charm while embracing a collection of modernizations and upgrades to feel good as new. This ship established Disney as the best cruise line for families , read on to see why.

Onboard Entertainment

Three Broadway-style shows are performed on the Disney Magic : "Twice Charmed," a twist on the Cinderella story; "Disney Dreams — An Enchanted Classic," an original show with cameos by characters like Peter Pan and Aladdin; and "Tangled: The Musical," Disney Magic’s signature show featuring stunning sets and beloved songs from the film.

In addition to nightly live entertainment throughout the ship, families can take in Marvel, Pixar, Disney, and Star Wars films currently in movie theaters at the full-size Buena Vista Theatre. On the outdoor upper decks, the Wide World of Sports offers basketball and ping pong, a selection of pools and hot tubs, and the famed AquaDunk water slide.

Exclusively For Kids

Whisk down a Slinky Dog slide in the "Toy Story"-themed Andy’s Room area, join the Lion Guard, or learn hero-worthy lessons from Thor within a Marvel Super Hero Academy — it’s all part of Disney’s Oceaneer Club, open to children ages 3 through 12. There are even more exciting Disney experiences throughout Disney’s Oceaneer Lab, Vibe teen club, and Edge tween club, all included with Disney Cruise ship sailings. (“It’s a Small World” nursery, which charges a nominal hourly rate, is also available for younger children.)

Experiences For Adults

Disney cruise ships are covered in high-end decor and thoughtful design that feel more classy and less kid-focused, but select adults-only experiences, including exclusive lounges and pools, still thrive. A collection of bars called After Hours has live music nightly at Keys, a ‘50s piano bar, and an opportunity to catch up on sports at O’Gills Pub, while Palo, a higher-end restaurant that requires a surcharge and reservation, is the ultimate date night. Don’t miss the “rainforest room” in the Disney Magic ’s Senses Spa, as well as adult beverage tasting seminars.

Disney Magic Dining

Guests on the Disney Magic cruise ship will rotate between three restaurants nightly. Rapunzel’s Royal Table provides a themed night of lively music, revelry from some Snuggly Duckling denizens, and an appearance by Rapunzel and Flynn Rider within a lantern-lined ballroom. Animator’s Palate is surrounded by mementos from Disney and Pixar animated films that “come to life” throughout dinner, and Lumiere’s channels the elegance of "Beauty and the Beast ."

Casual meals can be had at Cabanas or ordered via 24-hour room service on board the Disney Magic . Otherwise, stop by Duck-In Diner for hot dogs, chicken fingers, or a shawarma sandwich or enjoy a quick lunch at Pinocchio’s Pizzeria.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Castaway Cay, Disney's Private Island

Inaugural Year: 1999

A trip aboard the Disney Wonder can lead to familiar tropical escapes as well as a memory-making Alaskan vacation, with all the Disney cruise goodies included on board. Repeat cruisers love this vessel for its smaller size, which makes for a more intimate trip.

Disney cruise ships are famous for their nightly shows. "Disney Dreams — an Enchanted Classic" and "The Golden Mickeys" feature best-of-the-best Disney characters and music, but "Frozen, A Musical Spectacular," which brings Anna and Elsa's story to life with Broadway-style costuming and design, is a Disney Cruise Line favorite.

When you’re not enjoying Disney cruise activities like viewing Star Wars and Marvel films currently in theatres or playing ping pong and basketball at Wide World of Sports, there are plenty of pools, hot tubs, and AquaLab water play areas to enjoy on the outer decks. There’s even Disney Wonder’s Pixar Pals Party, a fun-filled celebration with characters from "Toy Story," "Up," and more, exclusively offered on Alaskan sailings with Disney Cruise Line.

Kids ages 3 to 12 can get up close to characters they love, dancing with Woody in a "Toy Story"-themed area, taking hero training with Captain America within Marvel Super Hero Academy, or building their own Mickey Roadster Racers in a Disney Junior games area on board the Disney cruise ship, as older kids enjoy their own slate of activities in Vibe teen club and tween hang The Edge. (There is also babysitting available for small children within the “It’s a Small World” nursery at a small fee.)

Make a reservation for Palo , an adults-only restaurant serving dinner each night and brunch on most sea days, or break for a pint at Crown & Fin Pub or a cocktail at Cadillac Lounge, housed within the Disney cruise ship’s After Hours section. There are also adults-only pool and outdoor areas on the Disney Wonder cruise ship, beverage seminars, and the Senses Spa’s “rainforest room”.

Disney Wonder Dining

Grab a slice at Pinocchio’s Pizzeria by Goofy’s Pool, a snack at Pete’s Boiler Bites, or some healthy fare at Daisy’s De-Lites — or hit the buffet at Cabanas, located on four Disney cruise ships. Dinner rotations bring diners to a new restaurant each night: Enjoy the flavor and fun of New Orleans at "The Princess & The Frog"-themed Tiana’s Place ; the elegant "The Little Mermaid" - inspired Triton’s ; or Animator’s Palate , which begins black-and-white and grows to be surrounded by color with a surprise at the meal’s end.

Related: Disney Cruise Secrets and Tips You Should Know Before You Go

Inaugural Year: 2011

Ship Class: Dream Class

Number of Staterooms: 1,250

This Disney cruise ship boasts variety shows like "The Golden Mickeys," an onboard spectacle celebrating Disney’s famed films and songs with plenty of character appearances, but its live rendition of "Beauty and the Beast" remains a signature show of Disney Cruise Line with its unfathomable sets, costumes, and performances.

Families can take in a round of outdoor mini golf on Goofy’s Sports Deck or stay inside to play Midship Detective Agency, a trio of interactive games featuring Muppets, Mickey Mouse, or Cruella de Vil. There’s plenty of aquatic fun to be had on this Disney cruise liner as well, with Nemo’s Reef for littles, an array of pools, and the AquaDuck, an onboard “water coaster” with views of the surrounding ocean, which is a Disney Cruise family favorite.

Packed with interactive features and themed spaces, Disney’s Oceaneer Club allows kids ages 3-12 to play in a "Toy Story"-themed room, explore Pixie Hollow with Tinker Bell, and take a simulated flight on the Millennium Falcon. There are also activities with characters, like Puzzle Playtime with Mickey and Friends, which lets young children play games alongside their favorite Disney characters, and more experiences within Disney’s Oceaneer Lab, tween hangs in Edge, and Vibe, a teen club with its own private pool.

Unwind at Senses Spa or indulge in upscale dining at Palo and Remy , both of which are exclusive to adults on board. (Be sure to make a reservation in advance.) Grab an after-dinner drink at Meridian, or head to The District for a bottle at Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar or drinks at Skyline, Pub 687, District Lounge, or Evolution.

Disney Dream Dining

Passengers on the Disney Dream will rotate between three different dinner eateries: elegant French fare at Enchanted Garden ; storybook fine dining at Royal Palace ; and a fully-immersive Animator’s Palate , bringing together the animated film libraries of Disney and Pixar for a meal filled with intrigue and surprise.

Order room service, hit Cabanas or Flo’s Cafe, a trio of Cars -themed eateries with chicken fingers and cheeseburgers, or grab a healthy smoothie at Senses Juice Bar or a special dessert at Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats for an additional fee.

Inaugural Year: 2012

Flex that vacation muscle at Disney Fantasy’s pools, including Nemo’s Reef for children and rides on the AquaDuck, a hybrid water slide and roller coaster with 765 feet of tubes above the top deck.

Uncover a hidden world of fun with Midship Detective Agency, an all-ages interactive game utilizing screens and props hidden throughout the ship. Watch current releases in the on-board Buena Vista Theatre or play basketball or experience VR sports simulators at sea on Goofy’s Sports Deck. At night, Disney Fantasy offers live shows including "Disney’s Believe," a narrative with visits from "Cinderella," "Mary Poppins" and " Peter Pan;" "Frozen, A Musical Spectacular;" and "Disney’s Aladdin - A Musical Spectacular," the Disney ship’s headlining show.

Kids ages 3-12 can learn mystic arts from Marvel’s "Doctor Strange" in the Marvel Super Hero Academy, sing and dance with "Toy Story’s" Woody in Andy’s Room, encounter real Stormtroopers at the Star Wars : Command Post, or enjoy kid-friendly activities with Mickey Mouse and friends. There’s endless inventive fun across Disney’s Oceaneer Lab and Club, and for older kids, at Edge and Vibe clubs.

Whether you’re shopping around the ship, grabbing a gin and tonic at Meridian — or taking a beverage tasting seminar to learn more about them — there’s loads for adults to do. The Disney cruise ship offers two adults-only restaurants: Palo , which serves elegant Italian dishes, and Remy , a French coursed menu experience. Plus enjoy Europa, a collection of stylized bars including Ooh La La champagne bar and La Piazza, an Italian bar reminiscent of a carousel.

Disney Fantasy Dining

Three restaurants aboard this Disney cruise ship means something different every night, whether it’s the fairytale-inspired Royal Court , beautiful Enchanted Garden , or Animator’s Palate , which utilizes real-time interaction with a popular "Finding Nemo" character. Quick eats can be found at Cabanas restaurant and Flo’s Cafe, while fanciful sundaes at Sweet on You and shakes at Senses Juice Bar are worthwhile upgrades. (Cove Cafe, with its Mickey cappuccinos, is also a must.)

Inaugural Year: 2022

Ship Class: Triton Class

Number of Staterooms: 1,254

The first ship in Disney Cruise Line's Triton class, the Wish will be joined by the new Disney Treasure , set to debut in late 2024.

Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Wish , is packed with brand-new entertainment for all ages. The AquaMouse — Disney's first-ever attraction at sea — and Toy Story Splash Zone provide aquatic fun; two cozy theaters show new and favorite Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars films; and the Walt Disney Theater features Broadway-style shows, including a retelling of "The Little Mermaid," "Disney Seas the Adventure," and "Disney's Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular."

Exclusively for Kids

At Disney's Oceaneer Club on the Wish , kids ages three to 12 can live out their Marvel and Star Wars adventures in the Marvel Super Hero Academy and Star Wars : Cargo Bay, and join their favorite princesses in Fairytale Hall. In the new Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, they can discover Imagineer secrets and design their own coaster. Edge and Vibe offer organized fun for older kids.

Experiences for Adults

The Disney Wish pulls out all the stops for adults, with lots of magical experiences just for them. Star Wars : Hyperspace Lounge offers intergalactic sips inspired by galaxies far, far away, The Bayou has a "Princess and the Frog"-themed menu in a beautiful setting, and The Cove includes an adults-only pool and bar. The ship also has a Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement, a stunning restaurant offering a multi-course dinner that we think is totally worth the splurge. The Disney Cruise Line favorite Senses Spa is also on this ship.

Disney Wish Dining

In addition to the truly exceptional adults-only restaurants, the Disney Wish offers some delightful onboard dining for the whole family. 1923 serves California flavors in a space inspired by Old Hollywood; Worlds of Marvel features the escapades of Ant-Man and the Wasp; and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure is an immersive experience with singing, dancing, and visits from everyone's favorite Frozen characters. Casual dining is available at several venues throughout the ship, including Marceline Market and Mickey and Friends Festival of Food.

Related: T+L's Review of the Disney Wish

EverythingMouse Guide To Disney

Disney Cruise Ships Compared: Finding the Perfect Ship for Your Magical Journey!

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In Disney Cruise circles it’s known as the Grand Slam.

This is only achieved when you have sailed on all of the Disney Cruise Line ships in the fleet.

As the years go by, and the expansion of DCL gathers pace, it is becoming more difficult!

Right now there are five ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, but soon, with the launch of Disney Treasure, there will be six. All of the ships offer different experiences

disneywishpooldeck

Wait until 2026 and you will have to sail on eight Disney Cruise ships to get your Grand Slam title including the brand-new Disney Adventure. From having just four ships not so long ago, DCL is now becoming a major player in the cruise industry with a rapid expansion of the fleet.

Which Disney Ships Are Currently Sailing?

Right now Disney Cruise Line offers:

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

By 2025, three new Disney Ships will be launched making the total fleet of eight ships.

  • Disney Treasure December 2024
  • Disney Adventure
  • Triton Class Ship

disneytreasurecruseshipprogress

Disney Treasure Progress – Follow the Building of Disney Treasure

The Different Classes of DCL Ship

Right now there are three different “classes” of Disney ships:

  • The Classic Ships – Disney Magic and Disney Wonder
  • The Dream Class Ships – Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy
  • The Triton Class Ships – Disney Wish and Disney Treasure (her maiden voyage is set for December 2024).

There will be at least one more Triton Class ship in the fleet as this has already been ordered. It is not known when construction will start or when she will sail.

As yet there is no news on what the name of this Disney ship will be.

2025 will also see the launch of the new ship that Disney acquired which was already 75% completed when they purchased it.

The acquisition of Global Dream was a bit of a surprise. This almost completed ship was headed for the scrap yard unless a buyer was found. Disney stepped in.

The Global Dream reportedly cost $1.8 billion to build and lenders had financed about $1.6 billion of this.

DCL had an eye for a bargain and reportedly paid only $41 million for the partially completed ship. Considering that you could easily pay around that for a home in Malibu California (obviously, the ship has rather higher running costs), this was a deal.

This ship will be very much larger than any of the others in the Disney fleet. Not only that, but she will be one of the biggest cruise ships in the World.

She will even rival the largest Royal Caribbean ships in size – although will not be quite as huge as Icon of the Seas!

It has been announced that the biggest ship in the fleet will be named Disney Aventure.

We know that this Disney ship will sail out of Singapore – but very few other details are known.

Disney Buys New Ship – What Will She Be Like?

Disney Wish Cruise Ship Size

disneywishgrandhall

The Disney Wish is the newest addition to the fleet and is the first of the Triton Class of ships. She is currently the largest ship in the fleet, but she will soon be overtaken by the new Disney Adventure.

  • Gross Tonnage : 144000 GT
  • Length : 1,119 feet
  • Beam : 135 feet (41 meters)
  • Draft : 28 feet (9 meters)
  • Max Speed : 28 mph (24 knots)
  • Launched : 2022
  • Capacity : 4,000 passengers
  • Crew Members : 1,458
  • Total on Board : 5,458
  • Total Staterooms : 1,254
  • Registered : Bahamas
  • Ship Cost : $900 Million

Here is a look at the different types of staterooms available on Disney Wish .

  • 1,254 staterooms (includes 53 concierge staterooms and 23 concierge suites)
  • 948 verandah staterooms (70%)
  • 185 oceanview staterooms (20%)
  • 121 inside staterooms (10%)

Disney Wish Restaurants :

  • Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Experience
  • Worlds of Marvel

How Big Is Disney’s Dream Cruise Ship?

There are two Dream Class ships. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

They are smaller than Disney Wish – although they have the same number of staterooms and identical maximum passenger capacity.

Gross Tonnage : 129690 GT Ship Length : 1,115 feet Beam : 137 feet Draft : 27 feet Max Speed : 28 mph (24 knots) Launched : 2010 Capacity : 4,000 passengers Crew Members : 1,458 Total on Board : 5,458 Total Staterooms : 1,250 Registered : Bahamas Ship Cost : $900 Million

Disney Dream Restaurants :

  • Animator’s Palate
  • Enchanted Garden
  • Royal Palace

Disney Fantasy Size

The Disney Fantasy is identical to the Disney Dream in its capacity and construction. However, the interior design is different.

Disney Cruise Canadian Deals

She was launched a year later than her sister ship, in 2011.

  • Gross Tonnage : 129690 GT
  • Ship Length : 1,115 feet
  • Beam : 137 feet
  • Draft : 27 feet
  • Launched : 2011
  • Total Staterooms : 1,250
  • Ship Cost : $950 Million

There are a total of 1,250 staterooms on the Disney Fantasy .

  • 150 Inside Staterooms (12%)
  • 199 ocean view
  • 901 verandah (includes 21 suites)

Disney Fantasy Restaurants

  • Disney Fantasy Enchanted Garden
  • Disney Fantasy Animator’s Palate
  • Royal Court Restaurant
  • Palo on Disney Fantasy

Disney Magic Cruise Ship – How Big is She?

Disney Magic was the first Disney Cruise Ship to be launched.

The Magic and Wonder are both known as the Classic ships.

The Magic was built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy.

One fun fact is that she was built in two halves at two different locations of the Fincantieri shipyard. When each was completed they were carefully welded together. I

f you look at the exterior wall in the middle of the promenade Deck 4 you can see the welding join where the two halves were joined.

  • Gross Tonnage : 83969 GT
  • Ship Length : 984 feet
  • Beam : 106 feet
  • Draft : 25 feet
  • Max Speed : 25 mph (22 knots)
  • Launched : 1998
  • Capacity : 2,713 passengers
  • Crew Members : 945
  • Total on Board : 3,658
  • Total Staterooms : 875
  • Ship Cost : $400 Million

Disney Magic Restaurants:

  • Rapunzel’s Royal Table
  • Lumiere’s

Disney Wonder Cruise Ship Size

The Wonder is almost identical in construction and capacity to Disney Magic.

disney wonder atrium

However, the Wonder was not built in two halves as the Magic was. She was built in one shipyard location in one piece.

However, by the usual Disney attention to detail if you look at Deck 4 on the Wonder on the exterior wall in the middle of the deck you will see a join line.

This is a fake welding line but was included to make it look like the real one on Disney Magic.

Gross Tonnage : 83969 GT Ship Length : 984 feet Beam : 106 feet Draft : 25 feet Max Speed : 25 mph (22 knots) Launched : 1998 Capacity : 2,713 passengers Crew Members : 945 Total on Board : 3,658 Total Staterooms : 875 Registered : Bahamas Ship Cost : $450 Million

Disney Wonder Restaurants :

  • Tiana’s Place
  • Tiriton’s

DCL Ships Size Comparison

The Global Dream will be the giant of the fleet. This Disney Cruise ship will be one of the biggest in the world.

Disney is not known for the size of its ships. Royal Caribbean usually takes this distinction.

Ships Ranked Biggest to Smallest

  • Global Dream – 208,000 GRT
  • New Triton-class ship – 144,000 GRT
  • Disney Treasure – 144,000 GRT
  • Disney Wish – 144,000 GRT
  • Disney Fantasy – 129,690 GRT
  • Disney Dream – 129,690 GRT
  • Disney Wonder – 84,000 GRT
  • Disney Magic – 84,000 GRT

Which Disney Cruise Ship is the Biggest?

disneyplutowishpool

Right now the biggest Disney Ships is the Wish.

Disney Treasure will be equal in size to the Wish. So will the third Triton Class ship which will launch in 2025.

In 2024 with the launch of the new Triton Class ship, this will be equal between the Disney Wish and Treasure.

When we reach the launch of the Global Dream, she will be, by far the biggest of the Disney Cruise ships.

Which Ship is the Smallest?

The smallest is Disney Magic. Well, it is pretty much a tie between Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. They are identical in most ways.

One interesting difference is that Disney Magic was built in two parts and welded together. Disney Wonder was built in one part.

Look closely at Disney Wonder and you will see a “fake” welding line on the ship, in the same place that the real one is on Disney Magic.

Which Disney Ship is the Newest?

At the beginning of 2024, Disney Wish is currently the newest of the Disney cruise ships.

However, in December 2024 the Disney Treasure will be launched and will take over this title.

Which Ship is the Oldest?

Disney Magic is the oldest of the fleet, having been launched in 1998. She is the sister ship of Disney Wonder, which was launched just a year later in 1999.

She is from the time when most of the cruise industry was focusing on smaller ships and the mega cruise ships of today were simply a glimmer in the eye of the designers!

Just because the Magic and Wonder are the older sisters of the fleet doesn’t mean that they don’t have a lot to offer. These older ships still offer the signature cruise experience of Disney characters, themed main dining, kids’ clubs, Broadway-quality entertainment, specialty restaurants for adults, adult pool decks, family pools and character meet and greets.

All of the ships in the fleet are updated during frequent dry docks.

Where Will Disney Cruise Ships Sail in 2024?

Disney Cruise ships are now sailing from more ports than ever, including Disney’s Private island Castaway Cay. And in summer 2024 there will be port stops at their new island destination Lighthouse Point.

  • Disney Wish – sailing from Port Canaveral on 3 and 4-night Bahamas Cruises with port stops at Castaway Cay
  • Disney Fantasy – sailing from Port Canaveral on mostly 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean Cruises with port stops at Castaway Cay.
  • Disney Magic – sailing from Galveston, New Orleans, Fort Lauderdale, and San Juan.
  • Disney Dream – sailing from Fort Lauderdale on Bahamian and Caribbean Cruises
  • Disney Wonder – sailing Australian, New Zealand, Transpacific, Pacific Coast, Alaskan, Mexican Riviera, and Baja Cruises.

Disney Cruise Sailings 2024

Disney Cruise Tips

Here are some articles and guides to help you if you are sailing on a Disney Cruise or thinking of booking one. These guides will help you decide which is the best Disney Cruise ship for your family vacation whether you are a first-time cruiser or have sailed with different cruise lines previously.

Disney Dream and Fantasy – Secret Staterooms Guide

Disney Cruise Money Mistakes – Avoid Wasting Money on Your Cruise

What You Really Shouldn’t Pack on a Disney Cruise

What Is Not Included in a Disney Cruise and What You Have to Pay Extra For

Things You Really Shouldn’t Forget on Your Disney Cruise

differences of disney cruise ships

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.

Saturday 17th of February 2024

It was the wonder built in halves not the magic as fincantiarri only had small dry dock avail worked there at the time say the pix of the bow going up the coast of Italy by tug as no engine

Sunday 18th of February 2024

Thank you for posting but it most definitely was Disney Magic which was built in 2 halves. DCL included a fake welding line on Disney Wonder in tribute to the Magic.

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differences of disney cruise ships

Everything You Need to Know About Each of Disney’s Cruise Ships

posted by James Brockbank on November 5, 2021 // last updated on November 5, 2021

Disney offers some of the most incredible cruises for people of all ages. They currently have four ships (soon to be five) to choose from.

Each has a unique set of features. If you’re ready to set sail, read on to learn everything you need to know about each of the Disney cruise ships and why not check out our guide to how much it costs to go on one whilst you’re here?

Disney Magic

Disney wonder, disney dream, disney fantasy, disney wish.

differences of disney cruise ships

The Disney Magic is the company’s first cruise ship and has been sailing since 1998. It’s one of the classic ships, along with its sister ship, the Disney Wonder. It’s one of the smaller Disney cruise ships and can hold up to 2,400 guests.

The Magic underwent a significant refurbishment in 2013 and another smaller one for its 20th anniversary in 2018. Even though it’s one of the older and smaller ships, it’s still impressive and offers a wonderful experience for families and Disney fans alike. 

Destinations

The Magic travels to a variety of destinations around the world. It most often visits Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, near the Bahamas. It also goes to Bermuda and the Caribbean. 

If you don’t want an island vacation, the Magic also goes to Canada and Europe. You can travel to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the British Isles, Western Europe, the Norwegian Fjords, and Iceland.

You can take cruises anywhere from three days up to 11 days.

Staterooms on the Magic are divided into four main categories, and there are ten different types of rooms.

Inside Staterooms

Inside staterooms are the Magic’s basic accommodations and are the most budget-friendly. These nautical-style rooms have a porthole mirror and no views outside the ship.

Guests can choose between standard and deluxe options of inside staterooms. The standard rooms are 184 square feet and sleep between three to four guests. They have a queen bed, sleeper sofa, and a pull-down berth. There’s also a living space and a full bathroom.

Deluxe rooms are similar to the standard but have the additional square footage, making them 214 square feet. They also have a separate half-bath, making them a good option for families with older kids.

Oceanview Staterooms

Oceanview staterooms are exactly like the deluxe inside staterooms but have a porthole with ocean views. They’re slightly more expensive but will give guests more of the experience at sea.

Verandah Staterooms

The deluxe oceanview staterooms are 268 square feet in size, which includes the verandah area. The configuration is the same as a deluxe oceanview stateroom with the added verandah. The private balcony has patio furniture for you to enjoy the ocean views.

Concierge Staterooms

Concierge staterooms cater to guests looking for the height of luxury. They have 1029 square feet, which includes a verandah. There are two separate bedrooms, 2.5 baths, an eating area, and more. Each room can sleep up to seven guests.

Concierge guests get lots of exclusive features, like help with planning, onboard services, and access to exclusive areas.

There’s plenty to do onboard the Magic, including the AquaDunk , a drop-in body slide. There’s also Goofy’s pool for swimming and AquaLab, an interactive splash park. There’s also the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and pirate makeovers for the little ones. 

You can enjoy different deck parties with lots of character interactions, music, and dancing. There are lots of other daily games like bingo and trivia. The Wide World of Sports contains areas to play sports.

Entertainment

Guests can enjoy two theaters. One shows classic Disney films, and the other features live-action productions. Current shows include Tangled: The Musical, Twice Charmed, and Disney Dreams.

Each cruise usually features a Pirates in the Caribbean Party with music, dancing, and more. The show finishes with an impressive fireworks show over the water.

Cruise packages come with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks at no extra charge. There are a variety of quick-service spots offering pizza, burgers, and sandwiches, and you can order room service. The Magic also includes three sit-down restaurants: Rapunzel’s Royal Table, Animator’s Palate , and Lumiere’s.

Unlike other cruises, Disney offers rotational dining. That means you’ll get to try each of the restaurants at least once during your cruise. Your waiters will move with you so that you get excellent service. 

Just for Kids

Disney offers supervised youth clubs for all ages in their package. Kids under three can go to a nursery (for an extra charge) so parents can have a night out. The Oceaneer Club is for kids between three and 12. Several interactive spaces feature favorite characters from the Avengers and Fairies .

Kids can take a private hall from the Club to the Oceaneer Lab. Kids can create, explore, design, and more in this hands-on area. Kids can even have lunch and dinner here, giving parents some time to themselves.

Tweens between the ages of 11 to 14 can visit Edge, a hangout spot where they can play video games, make crafts, and participate in themed activities. Teens between 14 to 17 can hit up Vibe. This room has video games, karaoke, and plenty of hangout spaces for making new friends.

Just for Adults

Palo is a fine dining experience exclusively for adults. There’s also a pool and spa for those 18 and over. Adults can spend their evenings at one of the many nightclubs and lounges that often feature live music and entertainment. These include the Cove Cafe, Cadillac Lounge, and more.

Special Events

Avenger’s fans will love Marvel Day at Sea, where there are shows, character experiences, and activities. For holidays, there are Very Merrytime Cruises and Halloween on the High Seas.

differences of disney cruise ships

The Disney Wonder set sail in 1999 and is similar in size and layout to the Magic, with a carrying capacity of up to 2,400 guests. The Wonder underwent a massive refurbishment in 2016. While it’s one of the smaller Disney cruise ships, guests enjoy the more intimate atmosphere.

The Disney Wonder sails to several destinations, including Alaska, Hawaii, and the Pacific Coast. For tropical trips, it heads to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. It also visits the Panama Canal.

The Wonder’s staterooms fall into four different categories, with ten different room options. 

Standard inside rooms sleep three or four and have 184 square feet. There’s a queen bed, sleeper sofa, a pull-down bed, and a sitting area. There are no outside views.

Deluxe staterooms are slightly larger at 214 square feet. They’re similar to the standard but have an extra half bath. A few of the rooms have obstructed views of the outside.

The Deluxe Oceanview staterooms are the same size and configuration as the Deluxe Inside stateroom but have one or two portholes with outside views.

If you want a verandah, there are two options. The Deluxe Oceanview staterooms with verandahs are the same as the Deluxe Oceanviews with the added square footage of a verandah. 

Deluxe Family Oceanview staterooms with verandahs have an extra pull-down bed and can sleep up to five.

Concierge is the highest level of room choice, and it comes with a lot of added benefits. You’ll have service from the moment you book your trip until the end. A dedicated crew will help you with anything you need.

Guests have the option of a one- or two-bedroom suite, both with verandahs. The one-bedroom sleeps five while the two-bedroom sleeps seven. There are also Royal Suites and Family Oceanview staterooms. These offer unparalleled luxury and have ample space.

The Wonder has several swimming areas. Goofy’s Pool is the large pool where most of the kids go. There’s a small water slide, a splash area for babies, and an interactive splash pad for bigger kids.

Many daily activities include Bingo, trivia, dance parties, character meet and greets, and more. You can also check out the Wide World of Sports to play some games with other guests.

The Wonder has two theaters. One shows films while the other is home to Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, and The Golden Mickeys. Guests can hang out with Pixar characters at the Pixar Pals Party or Frozen favorites at the Frozen Deck Party. 

Your tickets package on the Wonder includes all-inclusive dining. This package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and even room service. Dining includes sit-down meals and quick service meals, and there are also plenty of snack spots around the ship. There are also signature dining experiences for adults that have an additional fee.

The Wonder has three dining rooms for sit-down meals. These operate under a rotating schedule so that each guest gets to sample each restaurant, and your waiter moves with your restaurant. These restaurants are Tiana’s Place, Animator’s Palate, and Tritons.

Kids under the age of three can attend the It’s a Small World Nursery. Unlike the other kids ‘ clubs, this interactive childcare center is an additional charge, but it’s worth it for tired parents who need a night out.

The Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab cater to kids between the ages of three to ten. The Club has several different play areas and offers experiences with Marvel and Frozen characters. The Lab is more educational with experiments, art, and cooking. Kids can move between the two spaces.

Edge is the club for kids between 11 to 14. They can dance, watch movies, play video games, and just hang out with others their own age. There are also activities like trivia, a scavenger hunt, and DJ-ing lessons. The Vibe is the hangout for kids between 14 to 17. They can lounge around with friends or take part in guided activities.

While the kids are at one of the clubs, plenty of areas are designated just for adults. There are several bars, nightclubs, and lounges with live music and other entertainment. Adults can also enjoy their own pool, spa, and fitness center.

For adults who want a top-level dining experience, Palo is exclusively for adults. Please note that Palo does come with an additional fee.

Guests can choose to sail on select themed and holiday cruises. Pirate Night includes a deck party and fireworks over the water. You can also book a trip for Christmas and Halloween cruises.

differences of disney cruise ships

The Disney Dream is part of the larger class of Disney cruise ships. It entered service in 2011. With 1,250 staterooms, it can carry up to 4,000 guests. It’s 40% larger than the Magic and Wonder. Guests can expect more crowds but also plenty of new features.

The Dream travels to the Bahamas to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. It also goes to the Caribbean and Mexico. 

Like the Magic and Wonder, the Dream offers four classes of staterooms for a total of ten types of staterooms. These specifically aim to accommodate different family sizes and budgets.

Inside staterooms are the smallest and least expensive rooms. The standard rooms are 169 square feet and can sleep three-four. They include a queen bed, sofa sleeper, and a pull-down bed.

Deluxe rooms are slightly larger. They’re the same configuration, but the deluxe is 204 square feet and has an additional half bath. Neither standard nor deluxe feature outside views, but they have a Magical Porthole that shows real-time views of the ocean.

Deluxe Oceanview rooms have the same configuration as the Deluxe Inside staterooms but have an actual porthole. Deluxe Family Oceanview staterooms are even larger at 241 square feet and sleep three to five. They contain a queen bed, sleeper sofa, pull-down bed, and wall pull-out bed.

These rooms are similar to the Deluxe Oceanview rooms but have added square footage for a verandah furnished with deck furniture. The pull-down bed features a mural from Peter Pan .

Deluxe Family Oceanview staterooms have almost 300 square feet of space, making them larger than the Deluxe Family Oceanview rooms. They also include the furnished verandah and the Peter Pan mural. 

Concierge staterooms are the pinnacle of luxury on the Disney Dream. There are three different types of Concierge staterooms: Royal Suite, One-Bedroom Suite, and Family Oceanview stateroom. All include a verandah. 

Concierge rooms also come with extra amenities, like assistance with almost anything to do with your trip before, during, and after your cruise. Your family will have to worry about nothing but having a magical time.

There are plenty of on-board activities going on throughout the day, like trivia, bingo, dance parties, character meetings, and more. You can also do a Muppets-themed scavenger hunt. A sports deck has lots of fun for budding athletes.

One of the biggest parties is the Pirates of the Caribbean party. It’s now been split into two parties: one for smaller kids and one for older passengers. The party includes fireworks over the water.

There’s a large family swimming area on deck with two pools, one with a waterslide and another near a large video screen. There’s a toddler splash pad area nearby as well. The highlight of the Dream is the Aquaduck , the first water coaster at sea. Kids will love the ups and downs and twists and turns. 

There are two theaters on the Dream. One shows Broadway-caliber shows like The Golden Mickeys and Beauty and the Beast . The other shows Disney films for both younger and older viewers.

As with other Disney cruise ships, dining is all-inclusive, with a few exceptions. You can eat breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks with the option of quick service, table service, and room service. 

There are three main sit-down restaurants on the dream: Animator’s Palate, Enchanted Garden, and the Royal Palace. Guests get to rotate between the three so that they have the opportunity to sample all restaurants during their trip.

For an additional fee, babies and toddlers can stay at It’s a Small World Nursery. They’ll be cared for by trained cast members while parents enjoy an evening out.

For kids between three and 11, there’s the Oceaneer’s Club and Lab. A private hallway joins these two areas so kids can go back and forth freely. These two areas allow kids to play, explore, experiment, and more. There’s plenty of time for free play, but there are also structured activities like crafts and cooking lessons.

They also added two new areas, the Millennium Falcon and Disney Infinity. Both areas give kids an innovative way to play with the Force and interactive video games. 

Older kids can visit one of the teen lounges: Edge (11 to 14) and Vibe (14 to 17). These clubs allow teens to socialize with new friends. They can play video games and watch films. There’s also dancing and cast-led activities. 

While the kids are enjoying the kids’ clubs, there’s lots of fun for adults as well. There’s an adults-only pool, spa, and fitness center. Adults can also hit up both of the adults-only restaurants, Remy and Palo.

The ship has plenty of bars and lounges. Adults can have a drink and enjoy some live entertainment. Those who enjoy beer and wine can participate in beverage tastings.

Guests have the option to choose from a few themed cruises for even more magic. You can celebrate holidays like Christmas, Halloween, New Year’s Eve, and Thanksgiving on themed cruises.

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The Disney Fantasy is currently Disney’s newest ship. It entered service in 2012 and is the sister ship to the Dream and can carry up to 4,000 passengers.

The Disney Fantasy currently travels to the Caribbean.

Like the Dream, the Fantasy has four stateroom categories and ten different types of staterooms.

Standard and deluxe inside staterooms can accommodate three to four guests. All have a queen bed and sleeper, and some include a pull-down bed. Deluxe staterooms are slightly larger as they have an added half bath.

Deluxe oceanview staterooms are the same as deluxe inside rooms but have one or two portholes for a view outside. Deluxe family staterooms can sleep up to five and have added square footage.

These rooms are the same as the deluxe and deluxe family staterooms but have an added verandah for enjoying time outdoors.

Concierge rooms are the largest rooms on board. Guests can choose between a family stateroom, royal suite, or 1-bedroom suite. All staterooms have a verandah. This class comes with extra services, like planning before and during your trip and dedicated cast members.

Activities include deck parties, trivia, games, and impromptu dance parties. There’s a sports area for any athletes in your group. Pirate Night is a fun party for all ages and ends with fireworks over the sea.

The Fantasy features two theaters, one with films and another with live-action shows based on Aladdin and Frozen.  

Dining is all-inclusive with your package. You’ll get breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks from a variety of restaurants and room service.

The Fantasy features three sit-down restaurants: Animator’s Palate, Royal Court, and Enchanted Garden. You’ll get a chance to try each during your cruise.

As with the other Disney cruise ships, small kids can spend time in It’s a Small World Nursery (for an added fee) while parents enjoy some alone time. 

Older kids can visit the Oceaneer Club and Lab. These areas feature interactive spaces inspired by some of Disney’s most beloved characters and Marvel superheroes.

Tweens and teens can hang out with their peers at the Edge and Vibe clubs. If kids want something a little more structured, there are guided activities. 

Adults can dine at one of Disney’s signature restaurants, Palo or Remy. They can also visit several clubs and lounges with beverages and live entertainment.

In addition to the holiday-themed cruises, one of the highlights of the Fantasy is Star Wars Day at Sea . Fans can enjoy unique character experiences, parties, and events.

The Wish sets sail in 2022 and is sure to be as innovative as you’d expect from Disney. There are plans for new Star Wars – and Marve l-themed experiences and a Frozen -themed restaurant.

The AquaMouse is a new waterslide that combines exciting drops with a classic video experience. Guests will also enjoy an interactive AR storytelling experience with their phones.

Parting Thoughts

Each of the Disney cruise ships has something unique to offer. The one you choose will depend on the type of experience you want. Whether you choose one of the smaller, classic ships or one of the newer, larger ships, your Disney cruise is sure to be remarkable.

More about our TFVG Author

differences of disney cruise ships

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

differences of disney cruise ships

We compared every aspect of Disney's largest and smallest cruise ships. Here's what it's like to sail on each.

  • Jill sailed on the Disney Magic, the Disney Cruise Line's original and smallest cruise ship.
  • Amanda sailed on the Disney Wish, the company's newest and biggest ship.
  • Our writers compared the cabins, restaurants, entertainment, and overall experiences on both. 

Jill and her family rode on the Magic, the oldest and smallest ship in Disney's fleet.

differences of disney cruise ships

Disney's oldest ship, the Magic , first set sail in 1998. The boat measures 984 feet long, and can hold up to 2,713 passengers in 875 staterooms — making it the smallest cruise ship in Disney's current fleet.

The ship has three themed restaurants and is focused on a lot of Disney's original staple characters, like Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy. 

Each Disney cruise ship has a bronze statue of a character in the atrium. Since this is the original Disney cruise ship, the Magic's statue is Mickey Mouse dressed as a helmsman steering the wheel of his ship.

In another nod to the originals, Goofy can be found painting on the stern of the Disney Magic.

Amanda rode on the Wish, Disney's biggest and newest ship.

differences of disney cruise ships

The Disney Wish officially set sail for the first time in 2022. The boat measures 1,119 feet long, and can hold up to 4,000 passengers in 1,254 staterooms — making it the biggest cruise ship in Disney's current fleet.

It's also unique in representing all of Disney's entities: classic princesses, Mickey Mouse and his crew, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel.

The characters can be found through more than 4,000 art pieces onboard, three themed restaurants that are included in the cruise, and Disney's first theme-park attraction found on a boat.

In the main lobby of the Disney Wish, you'll find a bronze statue of Cinderella with her furry friends around her and a glass slipper nearby. In front of the boat, Rapunzel is hanging from her hair while painting the stern.

Jill, her husband, and her two kids set sail on the Disney Magic for $2,570.

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One reason I booked this trip is because my goal is to go on all five Disney Cruise ships before the upcoming Disney Treasure is scheduled for delivery in 2024. 

I snagged a last-minute booking on the Magic and selected a standard inside stateroom for myself, my husband, and two 12-year-old sons. This was the cheapest option for a stateroom at the time of booking.

We paid $2,570 for a three-night cruise out of Miami. This price included dining and onboard activities and entertainment .

I splurged on a massage and champagne tasting, but otherwise focused on keeping spending at a minimum.

After a few boarding issues, Amanda and her sister set sail on the Disney Wish for $2,707.52.

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My journey to experience the Disney Wish wasn't an easy one.

Shortly after I booked a trip on one of the first Disney Wish sailings for June 2022, Disney canceled because the ship's construction wasn't complete.

I then rescheduled for a date in July, but was denied boarding when my sister tested positive for COVID-19 at the port .

Luckily, I made it onto the ship for a three-day cruise to the Bahamas in early September. My sister and I opted for the cheapest accommodation — an inside stateroom with no window — and paid $2,707.52 for our trip .

We also chose not to purchase any add-ons — like spa services or island excursions — and didn't eat at any signature restaurants where you have to pay for your meals.

This was Jill's first time staying in an inside stateroom.

differences of disney cruise ships

An inside stateroom has no window and shares three walls with other staterooms.

Fortunately, we received an automatic upgrade to a deluxe inside stateroom, which gave us an extra 30 square feet and a split bathroom . The value of the upgrade was $47.

The stateroom attendant cleaned each morning and did a turndown service at night, converting the couch to bunk beds. Evening turndown service included chocolates and a different towel animal every night.

Amanda said her stateroom felt fit for a princess despite being small.

differences of disney cruise ships

Our room was decorated with "Cinderella" decor and truly felt fit for a princess — even if it had no window and was small, measuring 169 square feet.

Like Jill experienced on her cruise, staff cleaned our room each morning and turned it down at night with chocolates and towel animals.

Jill was surprised by how much space they actually had.

differences of disney cruise ships

Room 2601 had a closet, a narrow chest of drawers, and an under-the-bed storage space for suitcases. There were also drawers inside the desk, on either side of the bed, and in the bathroom.

Amanda's room was the perfect size for two people.

differences of disney cruise ships

The queen bed easily fit two people, though you could also choose to sleep on the pullout couch for more room. 

There was also plenty of space for our luggage both under the bed and in the many cabinets and closets located across from the sleeping area.

Jill's stateroom was narrow, but there was enough room for a family who spent little time there.

differences of disney cruise ships

The space that felt the most narrow was the area between the bed and the dresser. I liked our location on the second deck because we could go up one flight of stairs and be where all the action was.

Amanda was especially impressed with the bathroom, which felt luxurious for being so tiny.

differences of disney cruise ships

It was brightly lit with multiple shelves, provided toiletries, and even had a small tub inside.

I'm not sure that we would have loved the stateroom if we were traveling with more people, but for two of us, it was the perfect size.

Jill could choose from three restaurants on the Disney Magic.

differences of disney cruise ships

The Disney Magic has three main restaurants that are part of Disney Cruise Line's rotational dining system.

Guests are assigned a team of servers, and the servers rotate through the various restaurants with the passengers. Since my family sailed on a three-night cruise, we visited each of the restaurants — Rapunzel's Royal Table, Lumiere's, and Animator's Palette — once.  

Passengers could choose between main seating — 5:45 p.m. — and second seating — 8:00 p.m. — but we chose the latter. We always pick this time because I don't think early dining offers enough transition time between day and evening activities. 

All menus had a "lighter fare" section with a salad, and plainer foods, such as basic steak and chicken. There were also vegetarian options. Each dessert menu also offered a no-sugar-added option and a different sundae each night. My husband is a huge fan of ice cream, so it was fun to see the different sundae concoctions at each meal.

Amanda also had three options on the Wish.

differences of disney cruise ships

Like other Disney ships, there are three rotational restaurants on board. Guests are assigned a specific restaurant each night of their cruise, and they remain with the same guests and servers at their table.

As for menu options, there are simple dishes for light meals, vegetarian snacks, full courses, and more dessert than you could eat in one sitting.

We had the same two seating options to choose from and we had to choose the latter. The earlier option was filled when we booked the trip.

That said, we ended up preferring the later option. We didn't find ourselves hungry until later in the day because we snacked so much at buffets, and the later spot gave us more time to participate in activities.

Jill's family enjoyed Rapunzel's Royal Table, the Magic's "Tangled"-themed restaurant.

differences of disney cruise ships

Rapunzel's Royal Table had a ceiling aglow with the sun-embossed lanterns that are the hallmark of the movie the restaurant is named for.

The menu was mostly heavy, German-inspired fare, such as pretzel bread, cream soups, roasted chicken, and prime rib. Sadly, this was my least-favorite menu at the rotational restaurants because it was so heavy, and the dishes weren't plated nicely.

Still, the atmosphere and entertainment made up for it.

Rapunzel's Royal Table dinner entertainment includes skits and songs. The finale was Rapunzel and Flynn Ryder singing their signature ballad as the servers filed through the restaurant with lanterns. My family enjoyed the singing even though we were seated at the rear of the dining room and couldn't see much of the show.

Jill's family also ate at Lumiere's, a traditional, French-inspired restaurant named for the candlestick from "Beauty and the Beast."

differences of disney cruise ships

The "Beauty and the Beast" theming was so subtle it was almost nonexistent, but I enjoyed the classic, slightly formal atmosphere.

The menu featured tons of French-style dishes, like escargot gratinés, iced lobster and jumbo shrimp, chateaubriand, and crème brûlée.

Lastly, Jill's family visited the Animator's Palette.

differences of disney cruise ships

Animator's Palette is animation themed, with rudimentary black-and-white drawings on the walls that take shape with more color and detail as dinner progresses.

My favorite menu items were the ginger-dusted Angus beef teriyaki filet with wasabi mashed potatoes, black-truffle pasta pursiettes, and the butternut-squash soup.  

Dinner entertainment was animation magic. Upon being seated, guests were given a coloring sheet and markers and instructed to create their stick figure style drawing.

The waiters collected the sheets, which magically turned into animated characters who moved, danced, jumped, and interacted with Disney favorites on the big screens around the restaurant.

Amanda had a decent experience at The Worlds of Marvel restaurant.

differences of disney cruise ships

The Worlds of Marvel restaurant celebrates Ant-Man, the Wasp, and other beloved superheroes.

It's originally dark and moody inside, but later lights up with neon lights, giant TV screens, and Quantum Core technology located on each table.

The food is also unique and entirely inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Dishes include steamed-bao buns, "Wakandan" salads, steak, and more.

Though I enjoyed eating there, the restaurant wasn't my favorite. I'm not a huge Marvel fan, and I would only order one of the dishes I ate — the Golden Mystic pasta — again. The entertainment was also mostly shown on a screen, which made it feel less special.

Amanda was blown away by the Wish's Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure.

differences of disney cruise ships

The Disney Wish is also home to Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure.

From the minute you step inside, you feel as though you've been transported into the animated franchise. Each room is decorated to look like ones seen on screen, and musicians play fan-favorite songs in the middle of the room.

Characters like Oaken, Anna, Elsa, and even Olaf are also present during the Norwegian-inspired dinner. Our table indulged in Frozen Fractal cocktails, scallops with a flaky pastry side, Sven's favorite carrot soup, and a butter cake called Kvafjordkake .

If this restaurant existed at Disney World or Disneyland , I would visit regularly. The food was spectacular, the entertainers were Broadway level, and the opportunities for guest participation were unique.

Our table, which consisted of six girls in our mid-20s, was even chosen to form a conga line and sing "Love Is an Open Door" for the entire restaurant — an experience I'll never forget.

Lastly, Amanda experienced 1923 — she said it was nice but forgettable compared to the other two.

differences of disney cruise ships

Finally, there's 1923, a restaurant inspired by Walt Disney Studios and the year the company was founded.

Though still casual compared to the signature restaurants on the ship, it's arguably the fanciest of the three rotational options. Guests arrived in evening dresses and 1920s attire during my trip, and the atmosphere was comparable to a giant jazz bar.

The menu, on the other hand, was pretty standard, with appetizers like tortelloni and entrees like salmon. 

I enjoyed the food and calm atmosphere, but would have preferred to eat at this restaurant first if I'd had the choice. The other two restaurants were so exciting and interactive that this one felt almost forgettable when visited afterward.

Jill and her family also visited the Magic's buffet.

differences of disney cruise ships

Located on deck nine, Cabanas is the ship's buffet.

Its breakfast offerings included eggs, sausage, bacon, Mickey waffles, fresh fruit, cereal, baked goods, an omelet station, and just about anything else you could think of for breakfast.

The buffet food was good but the layout felt crowded and chaotic .

Amanda was also overwhelmed by the buffet.

differences of disney cruise ships

The main buffet on the Disney Wish is called Marceline Market. To my sister and my's surprise, the location had just about every type of food you could imagine.

There was a breakfast bar, dessert section, and countless lunch options available — from sandwiches and salads to seafood. It was almost overwhelming.

The market was also extremely crowded, with adults and children carrying giant plates of food every which way. That said, it was tough to find a table that wasn't occupied by another family.

So although we weren't overly impressed by the area or dishes we tried — many items were cold — there were so many other options that, if we'd had time, we likely would have found something to our tastes.

Jill also experienced a few quick-service options on the ship.

differences of disney cruise ships

I was never hungry or had to look too hard or long to find food.

Quick-service food options on deck include Pinocchio's Pizza (pizza), Duck-In Diner (burgers, chicken fingers, and fries), and Daisy's De-Lites (salads, sandwiches, and lighter fare).

Amanda was really impressed by the quick-service meals and beverages.

differences of disney cruise ships

Surprisingly, quick-service meals at Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods were some of the best my sister and I had during our trip.

I couldn't get enough of the chicken tenders at Goofy's Grill, and my sister loved making her own bowls at Donald's Cantina. 

We also enjoyed the endless free refills of soda, coffee, and ice cream cones that were available for most of the day.

Jill skipped the pools and slides like they usually do because they can get so crowed.

differences of disney cruise ships

There were two family-friendly pools on deck nine, Goofy's Pool and the Huey, Dewey, and Louie Pool. Goofy's Pool is the largest of the two pools (this is not to say the pool is all that large) and has a Funnel Vision screen where passengers can watch Disney movies.

The Magic has two water slides, the Twist 'n' Spout, and the AquaDunk, which is a drop slide. 

There are two splash pads, Nephews Splash Zone and the Aqua Lab. Kids must be three and potty trained to use all the water amenities except Nephews' Splash Zone.

The adult-only area also has a pool and two hot tubs.

Me and my family did not use the pools or slides on this cruise . We usually avoid pools on Disney Cruise Lines because we don't like dealing with the crowds. 

Amanda also skipped the pools but enjoyed some of the other water activities.

differences of disney cruise ships

The Disney Wish is home to multiple pools. There are four on the main deck that face a giant TV screen, three pools on the deck above, two adults-only pools, and a "quiet" pool on the top deck.

There's also a children's splash zone inspired by "Toy Story" and the AquaMouse water ride that wraps around the ship.

Like Jill and her family, my sister and I didn't spend any time inside the pools because they were constantly filled with people. We did, however, ride the AquaMouse and highly recommend it.

Jill's cruise stopped in Nassau and Castaway Cay, but they skipped the former port.

differences of disney cruise ships

We did not get off the ship in Nassau because we'd been there before and wanted to use the time to enjoy the ship's amenities.

My family's Castaway Cay day was a success — we snorkeled, swam, and had a buffet lunch complete with lots of ice cream. We achieved their goal of staying on budget by skipping alcohol and bringing our own snorkel gear.

Amanda's ship also stopped at Nassau and Castaway Cay, and she also skipped the former to enjoy on-board activities.

differences of disney cruise ships

The Disney Wish currently stops in Nassau and Castaway Cay.

My sister and I didn't visit the former spot because there were so many activities on board that we wanted to experience. Instead, we experienced the Bahamas via Castaway Cay — a spot that we loved.

We snorkeled, enjoyed the adults-only beach, and rented bikes for $10 each that we used to get around the island.

With so many youth activities, Jill said she hardly saw her kids.

differences of disney cruise ships

My two kids took advantage of the Oceaneer Club, which is for kids 3 to 12, and Edge, which is for kids 11 to 14. There's also Vibe for kids 14 to 17 and a nursery for kids under 3.

Anyone can explore the kids' areas during several open houses, which are listed in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app.

My entire family agreed that the teen club, designed to look like a New York City loft complete with a smoothie bar, was the coolest space. My tweens participated in joint activities with the teen club, including a flash-mob performance.  

All of the kids' programming except the nursery are included in the cost of the cruise and don't require reservations. The kids' activities happen all day and all night and I saw little of my kids because they were hanging with new friends.  

Amanda enjoyed the activities for adults and felt welcome at a few that seemed angled toward children.

differences of disney cruise ships

My sister and I were originally nervous to board a Disney cruise as two women in our mid-20s. Would there be more kids than adults onboard? And would there be any activities for people our age?

We did feel overpowered by children at times, but we still had fun. Via our dinner table, we met two other sets of sisters who were in our age range, and we spent time with them throughout the trip.

We also took advantage of adult-catered activities like walking tours and scrapbook classes when possible.

And to our surprise, even the activities meant for kids, like the "Incredibles"-themed obstacle course, welcomed adults, so we got to do that too.

Jill said the Disney Magic had Broadway-quality entertainment.

differences of disney cruise ships

My three-night sailing included "Tangled: The Musical," "Disney Dreams: An Enchanted Classic," and a comedy/magic show.

The evening shows are aligned with the assigned dining rotation. Guests who have early dinner go to the show after they eat while guests who have second seating go to their show before dinner. There's no assigned seating but shows fill up early. I suggest arriving 30 minutes before showtime.

The "Tangled" show is exclusive for the Disney Magic and I think it's a must-see. The hour-long stage show is an abbreviated version of the animated movie and manages to hit all the high points and favorite songs, like" I Have a Dream" and "At Last I See the Light" and other popular tunes from "Tangled."

"Dreams" is a montage of favorite Disney songs and characters. The main character is a young girl who learns to believe in herself through visits from beloved characters such as Peter Pan, Aladdin, and more. The production was flawless but "Dreams," which I also saw on another Disney cruise, is not my favorite. 

Other entertainment included comedy, game shows, and trivia, all listed in the Navigator app. There was a mix of both family-friendly events in the D Lounge and adults-only events in the designated After Hours area.

There was also musical entertainment throughout the cruise, such as pianists and singing duos playing various genres of music. I didn't hone in on any of the musical entertainment. It felt mostly like background noise, not something I felt compelled to stop and watch.

Amanda was also impressed by the almost Broadway-level productions on the ship.

differences of disney cruise ships

A highlight of the Disney Wish is its three Broadway shows — all of which were created for the new ship. Currently, there's "Disney Seas the Adventure," "Disney The Little Mermaid," and "Disney's Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular."

We definitely preferred some shows over others — the stage take on "Aladdin" was our favorite. We also spent an hour in line to enter the theater before each show. Seats filled up fast.

But we found ourselves looking forward to each production, and once our vacation was over, we joked about driving to New York City to attend a Broadway show each night.

Overall, Jill enjoyed sailing on a smaller ship and felt the trip was worth the cost.

differences of disney cruise ships

In addition to the Magic, I've also sailed on the Dream (second-biggest ship in the fleet) and Wonder (second-smallest ship in the fleet).

Still, the smaller ships are my favorite because they feel more intimate and easier to navigate. I was happy with how much I spent , my accommodations, and the ship overall.

That said, the Magic did show a few gentle signs of wear and tear, like peeling wallpaper in some common areas and a broken spring on the couch in my room. It wasn't a big deal to me at all, but I definitely think newer ships will have a fresher look. 

Overall, Amanda had a good time but isn't sure the cruise is worth the high price.

differences of disney cruise ships

During our trip, my sister and I had trouble moving past the price of our vacation. Though we loved almost every minute of it, nearly $3,000 felt like a lot to pay for a three-day vacation that at times felt very rushed. 

So if we had to pick between a Disney cruise and a stay at Disney World, we'd pick the latter.

That said, our time on the Disney Wish was unlike anything we'd ever experienced, and I find myself growing fonder of it as time goes on. I miss the buffet, the beautiful beach at Castaway Cay, and even the $3 popcorn we ordered before each theater show.

So although I'm not sure if I'd book the same vacation again or regularly, I'd definitely say it's worth taking at least one Disney cruise.

differences of disney cruise ships

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How are the Disney Cruise Line ships different?

The Disney Cruise Line fleet consists of the Disney Magic , Disney Wonder , Disney Dream ,  Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish .

Each of our 5 ships features different designs and deck plans , as well as distinctive restaurants , entertainment , activities and pools on board to make every voyage a unique and memorable experience.

We invite you to explore and compare the features, designs and amenities of the Disney Cruise Line ships .

While features may differ, all 5 Disney Cruise ships offer an unforgettable experience you won’t find on any other vacation: world-famous Disney hospitality, enchantment and family fun in an environment of unmatched onboard comfort, convenience and safety.

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Table of Contents

About Disney Cruise Line cruises

Disney cruise line prices, disney cruise line loyalty program: castaway club, what is the best disney cruise line ship.

Disney has a massive global footprint across its theme parks, films and merchandise. And it doesn’t stop there. Among its many offerings is the Disney Cruise Line, whose fleet of five ships sails all over the world.

Family-friendly but with adults-only areas, Disney cruises offer some of the most comprehensive cruise options around. Let’s break down everything there is to know about the Disney Cruise Line, including pricing, destinations and its loyalty program.

You can always expect some magic from Disney, and there is no exception when sailing on Disney Cruise Line. Although its fleet is small, it offers a high-end, family-friendly experience for guests. Here’s a quick overview of Disney Cruise Line’s key features.

Cabin types: Disney Cruise Line offers all the usual cabin types, including inside, oceanview, verandah and concierge-level rooms . Disney Cruise Line’s cabins are larger than average and designed for families, with split bathrooms and privacy curtains. Their largest rooms can accommodate up to seven guests. 

Main U.S. routes: Disney has several departure points from within the United States, including options from San Diego, New York City, Miami, and Galveston, Texas. However, its most frequent departures are from Port Canaveral in Brevard County, Florida, to the Bahamas and the Caribbean or from Vancouver, British Columbia to Alaska.

Loyalty program: Disney Cruise Line offers the Castaway Club to repeat guests. It has four membership levels — Silver, Gold, Platinum and Pearl. The first level is earned by completing a single cruise. 

» Learn more: Disney Cruise Review — Mickey at Sea Gets an A+

Disney Cruise Line destinations

Although Disney currently operates only five ships, the cruise line still manages to cover most of the world. Here are the locations you can currently sail on a Disney cruise:

New Zealand.

Pacific Coast. 

Panama Canal.

South Pacific. 

Transatlantic. 

Cruises are available in a variety of lengths, from three nights up to 15 nights.

Disney cruises tend to be more expensive than the average cruise. Currently, for example, the cheapest cruise departing from Port Canaveral is a three-night trip to the Bahamas, which costs $1,958 for two guests.

differences of disney cruise ships

And you’ll pay more to take a "special occasion" Disney cruise. The same three-night Bahamas cruise sailing during Disney's Silver Anniversary at Sea starts at $2,345 for two guests.

differences of disney cruise ships

When it comes to timing, standard logic applies. The high season will cost more, especially during holidays and the summer break.

The cheapest rate we found — the previously-mentioned $1,958 — is for a cruise in late January, a time when those with school-aged children might have trouble getting away. Meanwhile, the most expensive period for this cruise takes place over the Christmas holiday and rings in at $3,737 for an inside stateroom.

For all destinations, if you’d like to save money, avoid peak periods and search all available dates to find the lowest rates . This is true even on less popular cruises, such as those sailing up to Alaska .

differences of disney cruise ships

The cheapest cost for two guests to Alaska from Vancouver is $2,983 in mid-September, while the same cruise will cost you $4,607 if you sail over the Fourth of July holiday.

One-way positioning cruises — that is, those that end in a different location from where they started — are often much cheaper per night than standard round-trip cruises.

What’s included

Disney cruises are more inclusive than most cruises. You don’t, for example, need to pay extra for soft drinks on a Disney cruise like you would on Norwegian Cruise Line . You’re also entitled to complimentary room service 24/7, unlike on Virgin Voyages, where you'll be charged a $5 fee for each delivery.

Here are more inclusions you can expect.

Live, high-quality entertainment.

Large staterooms (designed for parties of up to three guests).

Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay (on most Bahamas and Caribbean cruises).

Upscale restaurants, quick-service dining, poolside snacks and room service.

Adults-only lounges and pool areas.

Waterslides (on some ships).

» Learn more: How much does a Disney cruise cost?

Disney isn’t known for its loyalty programs. For example, there is no frequent traveler program associated with staying at one of its resorts or frequenting its parks. However, Disney Cruise Line rewards repeat customers with various benefits, including a complimentary specialty dinner, free photo downloads and an exclusive terminal check-in area.

Castaway Club levels

The Castaway Club levels are Silver, Gold, Platinum and Pearl.

How to earn : Sail on one cruise.

Best benefits : Book cruises one day before the general public, online activity planning 90 days before sailing, check in 33 days early, exclusive terminal check-in.

How to earn : Sail on five to nine cruises.

Best benefits : Book cruises two days before the general public, online activity planning 105 days before sailing, check in 35 days early, onboard reception, special discounts. 

How to earn : Sail on 10 to 24 cruises.

Best benefits : Book cruises three days before the general public, online activity planning 120 days before sailing, check in 38 days early, complimentary specialty dinner.

How to earn : Sail on 25+ cruises. 

Best benefits : Book cruises four days before the general public, online activity planning 123 days before sailing, check in 40 days early, complimentary unlimited digital photo package. 

» Learn more: Which is cheaper, Disney World or a Disney cruise?

The Disney Wish is the newest Disney Cruise Line ship and certainly its best. It just launched in the summer of 2022. Among its many amenities, guests can find the first-ever Disney attraction at sea. It’s a 760-foot water slide filled with show scenes, lighting, music and more that touches down into a lazy river.

The Disney Wish also has dedicated areas themed for "Frozen," the Marvel Universe and "Star Wars."

In addition, the Disney Wish has all the regular amenities you’d expect on a Disney cruise, including live entertainment, pools and spacious staterooms.

Disney Cruise Line does not offer free Wi-Fi. Instead, it has three levels of packages from which to choose:

Stay Connected: $10 per day for the entire cruise or $12 per day for a 24-hour period.

Basic Surf: $20 per day for the entire cruise or $24 per day for a 24-hour period.

Premium Surf: $30 per day for the entire cruise or $36 per day for a 24-hour period.

These packages are available on the Disney Wish, Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream. The Disney Wonder still operates on the old data-usage Wi-Fi packages.

Most of your daily expenses, including your food and non-alcoholic beverages, are included when sailing on a Disney cruise. However, if you’d like specialty drinks or alcohol, you’ll need to pay extra. Gratuities are not included, and Disney Cruise Line's recommended tip is a minimum of $14.50 per guest, per night.

Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer the standard drink package other cruise lines offer. Drink packages allow you to pay a flat-rate price and drink as much alcohol as you’d like.

Instead, you’ll either pay per drink or purchase bundled quantities onboard. It’s also possible to purchase a specialty beer mug at the pub onboard, which can then be refilled across the ship. Much like Disney’s popcorn buckets, your beer mugs entitle you to cheaper refills on all your beer.

In the past, Disney Cruise Line required that you be vaccinated or tested for COVID-19 before sailing, but this is no longer the case. Guests departing from the United States are not required to do either, though the cruise line highly encourages you to get vaccinated before sailing.

Most of your daily expenses, including your food and non-alcoholic beverages, are included when sailing on a Disney cruise. However, if you’d like specialty drinks or alcohol, you’ll need to pay extra. Gratuities are not included, and

Disney Cruise Line's recommended tip

is a minimum of $14.50 per guest, per night.

(Top photo courtesy of Disney Cruise Line)

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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differences of disney cruise ships

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Home » Cruise » Disney Cruise Line » Complete Guide to Disney Cruise Ships By Size

Complete Guide to Disney Cruise Ships By Size

If you’re wondering how Disney Cruise Line ships compare, look no further than our guide to Disney cruise ships by size, age, and amenities.

Complete Guide to Disney Cruise Ships By Size

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The magic of Disney takes to sea aboard Disney Cruise Line’s fleet of well-maintained cruise ships. For the past 25 years, Disney has sailed the seas with just four ships. However, between 2022 and 2025, the cruise line will double its fleet, adding three more ships in an all-new class and purchasing a fourth — set to be DCL’s biggest ship yet.

If you’re wondering how each ship compares across Disney Cruise Line — including size, age, and amenities — look no further than our guide to Disney’s cruise ships.

Disney Cruise Line Celebrates Summer 2023 with Family Adventures - Disney Cruise Ships by Size

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Guide to Disney Cruise Ships by Size

How many disney cruise line ships are there.

At the time of publication, there are five Disney Cruise Line ships in three ship classes. By 2025, there will be eight ships in the fleet, across four classes.

What are the differences between the Disney cruise ships?

Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are both Magic-class ships built in 1998 and 1999 but completely refit in 2018 and 2019, respectively.

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are Dream-class ships built in 2011 and 2012. Dream underwent a refit in 2015, while Fantasy did in 2017.

Disney Wish is the first ship in the Triton Class, debuting in 2022. Disney Treasure in 2024 and another yet-unnamed vessel in 2025 will join Disney Wish.

Also in 2025, the Global Dream will make its debut, Disney Cruise Line’s first-ever acquired vessel. Originally ordered for now-defunct Dream Cruises, the ship remains unfinished at the shipyard in Germany, but will bear the Disney brand and potentially a new name when it launches. This ship is the cruise line’s first for the Asian market, setting sail in Singapore .

Disney Cruise Ships by Size

Disney ships vary in size, with the oldest ships being the smallest and the newer vessels being the largest in the fleet. They also differ in their entertainment offerings.

While top-quality production shows and dinner theater is a hallmark of every ship in the fleet, the offerings vary from ship to ship. You’ll find that “Tangled” might be the musical onboard Magic, while Disney Wonder offers the interactive Tiana’s Place restaurant.

All ships offer the Oceaneer Club, a state-of the-art kids club, but they vary slightly by ship. Imagine the characters of Pixar’s “Toy Story” alongside a Marvel Superhero Academy or a functional Star Wars Millennium Falcon. These onboard spaces are all so tricked out, adults will be jealous.

Disney’s ships also differ in itineraries. These destinations can vary from year to year and ship to ship. In summer, you might find Disney Dream in Europe while Disney Wonder is sailing in Alaska.

The remainder of the fleet sails popular itineraries in the Caribbean and Bahamas from Florida-based ports as well as a few voyages from San Juan, Puerto Rico. These itineraries often feature a stop at Disney’s private island of Castaway Cay .

Of course, these differences across the fleet also impact Disney cruise costs .

Which Disney cruise ship is the biggest?

With the introduction of its Triton Class, Disney has built its largest cruise ship to date. Disney Wish accommodates up to 4,000 passengers, like its Dream-class sisters. However, it is a bit roomier at 144,000 gross registered tons (GRT).

However, when Global Dream debuts in 2025 in Singapore, it will weigh in at an estimated 208,000 GRT. When it comes to Disney cruise ships by size, this is nearly double the size of any current Disney ship.

SCORE EXCLUSIVE RATES ON YOUR NEXT DISNEY CRUISE!

What Disney cruise ship is the newest?

The newest Disney Cruise Line ship currently sailing is 2022’s Disney Wish. After a 10-year shipbuilding hiatus, Disney will double its fleet size in three years, imminently adding three more new ships: Disney Treasure (2024); the third Triton-class ship (2025); and the ship formerly known as Global Dream (2025).

Disney Cruise Ships by Size

Disney Cruise Line Ships Ranked Biggest to Smallest

  • Global Dream (2025) – 208,000 GRT, approximately 3,000 guests at double capacity
  • Unnamed Triton-class ship (2025) – 144,000 GRT, 2,508 guests at double capacity
  • Disney Treasure (2024) – 144,000 GRT, 2,508 guests at double capacity
  • Disney Wish (2022) – 144,000 GRT, 2,508 guests at double capacity
  • Disney Fantasy (2012) – 129,690 GRT, 2,500 guests at double capacity
  • Disney Dream (2011) – 129,690 GRT, 2,500 guests at double capacity
  • Disney Wonder (1999) – 84,000 GRT, 1,754 guests at double capacity
  • Disney Magic (1998) – 84,000 GRT, 1,754 guests at double capacity

Magic Class

Disney’s two oldest ships, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, are still in incredible shape. Guests love their intimate feel as they are about a third smaller than the other ships. Art Nouveau style melds with Disney characters and thematic flair for a stunning ship atmosphere across the Magic Class.

Disney Cruise Line concepts like rotational dining (where you change restaurants each night, but your servers follow you from venue to venue) shine on Magic and Wonder. Animator’s Palate is an interactive way to draw up some fun with dinner.

The AquaDunk was added as a drop-out waterslide to both ships during refurbishment, amping up its pool decks, which also host the AquaLab and Goofy’s Pool.

Popular film franchise “Frozen” takes form on Disney Wonder as “Frozen: A Musical Spectacular.”

Disney Wonder- Disney Cruise Ships By Size

Dream Class

Built in the mid-2000s, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy were built to be a bit bigger than their predecessors. Cabins — even inside cabins — feature views, thanks to “magical portholes.” This virtual window marked a first in the industry when they debuted on Dream in 2011.

Despite a low-sounding number for double occupancy, the family-friendly cabin configurations of the Dream Class allow for up to 4,000 passengers. In fact, many staterooms allow for families of four and five to bunk comfortably. This includes two half-baths, one with just a toilet as well as a room with a tub or shower, to make it easier to get ready morning, noon or night.

Out on the pool deck, the AquaDuck is a kid-friendly water coaster that allows parents to ride with their tots through translucent tubes.

 The Oceaneer Club features the Marvel Superhero Academy since the ships’ refurbishment.

Tuck in for complimentary top-tier stage productions on both ships, like musical “Aladdin” on Disney Fantasy.

differences of disney cruise ships

Triton Class

After a decade-long hiatus, Disney introduced its Triton Class in 2022 with Disney Wish. The company is making the most of its Star Wars and Marvel brands with new programs and spaces for kids and adults.

Onboard Wish, a Hyperspace Lounge brings passengers into the world of Star Wars with the feeling of enjoying a cocktail in space. New interactive dining concepts like “Avengers: Quantum Encounter” introduce Ant Man and the Wasp as dinner companions, shrinking and growing at the push of a button.

“Frozen” makes another appearance on Wish as well, this time as a dinner theater experience.

Parents and adults can indulge in a kid-free evening at Palo Steakhouse or Enchante, new specialty dining concepts for DCL. These restaurants are themed after Cogsworth and Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast.

On the pool deck, AquaMouse is a Disney attraction that pairs lighting and special effects, bringing Mickey and Minnie along with you for a water tube ride. Meanwhile, Disney Uncharted Adventure is a first-of-its-kind interactive storytelling experience onboard that implores families to solve quests using their smartphones as an “enchanted spyglass.”

Disney Wish Bahamas Cruise Review

As for accommodations, Royal Suites on Wish are inspired by “Sleeping Beauty” and feature two cabins with two levels including a spiral staircase and stained-glass artwork fit for princes and princesses.

Disney Wish is currently sailing a series of three- and four-night Bahamas sailings from Port Canaveral, year-round.

Disney Treasure, the forthcoming second ship in the Triton Class, will debut in 2024. Initial announcements reveal inspiration from “Aladdin.” In the ship’s Grand Hall, guests will absorb the grandeur and mystery of a palace influenced by Asian and African architecture. Information about Treasure’s dining, cabins, and entertainment is forthcoming.

Dream Cruises Acquisition

Little is known at this time about what will be featured onboard Disney’s Global Dream cruise ship and how its class will be determined. Apart from its notably large size and the introduction of Asia as an entirely new destination for Disney’s oceangoing ships, few details exist on plans for this Singapore-based vessel.

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Complete Guide to Disney Cruise Ships By Size

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Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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Disney Cruise Ships by Size [2022] with Comparison Chart

Disney Cruise Ships by Size [2022] with Comparison Chart

Below you'll find a complete list of Disney Ships by Size . From their smallest ship, the Disney Wonder, to the largest Disney cruise ship (soon to be), the Disney Wish.

While some cruise lines differ in size by a factor of 5x between their biggest and smallest ships, Disney has less variance. It also has significantly fewer ships. Once completed, the Disney Wish will be the fleet's 5th ship. Compare that to Carnival and Royal Caribbean's massive fleets (totally roughly 60 ships).

However, the difference in size between the Magic Class of ships vs Disney Class is worth noting. The Dream and Fantasy are roughly 55% larger than the Wonder and Magic! If you're in the "bigger is better camp," you'll want to opt for the Dream Class.

Here at Gangwaze, we don't discriminate when it comes to our Disney ship size. Sometimes we need a bit more breathing room. Think big family reunions. While other times we prefer a cozier cruise.

First, a little clarification is needed before checking out our sizing chart below. We're comparing Disney cruise ships by size using the metric, " Gross Tonnage ." This always causes a few shoulder shrugs in our community. We're not simply talking, "weight." The definition is a bit nuanced. And by "nuanced, we mean "boring." Here it is nonetheless.

Hey, wake up! So why do we use this measurement to determine Disney Ship Sizes? As noted above, it's used for safety rules and whatnot. As such, it's the standard across this cruise line and all others. Every passenger cruise ship will have this measurement . That makes it easy to compare ship size across ship, class, cruise lines and more.

Ok, we're done with today's course on maritime verbiage. Here's the good stuff.

Does Disney Ship Size impact cruise price?

The price of a Disney cruise isn't directly correlated with size. You won't find that the bigger the ship, the more the cost. Nor will you find the opposite. You won't necessarily pay less for the largest Disney ship vs the smallest. It will all depend on the specific itinerary. To get a sense of pricing, please use our widget below. You can switch between the different Disney ships to see the difference in cost.

Below you'll find all Disney ships ranked by size (in Gross Tonnage). Additionally, you'll find a number of other stats in our ship list. These include ship length, beam, draft, passenger count, and a few others for your viewing pleasure.

Disney Cruise Ships by Size (Largest to Smallest)

Your experience on any of the above ships will be consistent. You'll find the same cast of characters and many of the same dining venues and attractions. With Disney, you really can't go wrong.

When choosing our next DCL vacation, we tend to focus more on factors other than size. These include available itineraries, departure port, cruise length, price and more. You can click through any of the ships below to find our pricing page. There, you'll see all these factors in play and easily sortable.

Here's a menu of all Disney Ships by Size. Click on any for quick access to ship stats for that vessel.

  • 1) Disney Wish
  • 2) Disney Dream
  • 3) Disney Fantasy
  • 4) Disney Wonder
  • 5) Disney Magic

DISNEY CRUISE SHIPS BY SIZE

Without further ado, here's our full list of Disney ships ranked from biggest to smallest!

1) Disney Wish Size

The Disney Wish has a construction date of 2022 and a total size of 144000 gross tons. The ship measures 1,119 feet (341 meters) in length and falls in line as number 1 among Disney's 36 existing and former cruise ships. It’s included in Disney’s Triton Class. At full capacity, the Disney Wish holds 5,458 passengers. That includes 4,000 cruise vacationers and 1,458 staff members. The Disney Wish total number of staterooms is 1,250.

  • Gross Tonnage : 144000 GT
  • Ship Length : 1,119 feet (341 meters)
  • Beam : 135 feet (41 meters)
  • Draft : 28 feet (9 meters)
  • Max Speed : 28 mph (24 knots)
  • Year Built : 2022
  • Years Served : Future-2022
  • Capacity : 4,000 passengers
  • Crew Members : 1,458
  • Total on Board : 5,458
  • Total Staterooms : 1,250
  • Flagged Country : Bahamas
  • Ship Cost : $900 Million
  • Status : future ship

2) Disney Dream Size

The Disney Dream has a construction date of 2011 and a total size of 129690 gross tons. The ship measures 1,115 feet (340 meters) in length and falls in line as number 2 among Disney's 36 existing and former cruise ships. It’s included in Disney’s Dream Class. At full capacity, the Disney Dream holds 5,458 passengers. That includes 4,000 cruise vacationers and 1,458 staff members. The Disney Dream total number of staterooms is 1,250.

  • Gross Tonnage : 129690 GT
  • Ship Length : 1,115 feet (340 meters)
  • Beam : 137 feet (42 meters)
  • Draft : 27 feet (8 meters)
  • Year Built : 2011
  • Years Served : 2011-Present
  • Status : active

3) Disney Fantasy Size

The Disney Fantasy has a construction date of 2012 and a total size of 129690 gross tons. The ship measures 1,115 feet (340 meters) in length and falls in line as number 3 among Disney's 36 existing and former cruise ships. It’s included in Disney’s Dream Class. At full capacity, the Disney Fantasy holds 5,458 passengers. That includes 4,000 cruise vacationers and 1,458 staff members. The Disney Fantasy total number of staterooms is 1,250.

  • Max Speed : 25 mph (22 knots)
  • Year Built : 2012
  • Years Served : 2012-Present
  • Ship Cost : $950 Million

4) Disney Wonder Size

The Disney Wonder has a construction date of 1999 and a total size of 84130 gross tons. The ship measures 964 feet (294 meters) in length and falls in line as number 4 among Disney's 36 existing and former cruise ships. It’s included in Disney’s Magic Class. At full capacity, the Disney Wonder holds 3,658 passengers. That includes 2,713 cruise vacationers and 945 staff members. The Disney Wonder total number of staterooms is 875.

  • Gross Tonnage : 84130 GT
  • Ship Length : 964 feet (294 meters)
  • Beam : 106 feet (32 meters)
  • Draft : 25 feet (8 meters)
  • Year Built : 1999
  • Years Served : 1999-Present
  • Capacity : 2,713 passengers
  • Crew Members : 945
  • Total on Board : 3,658
  • Total Staterooms : 875
  • Ship Cost : $350 Million

5) Disney Magic Size

The Disney Magic has a construction date of 1998 and a total size of 83969 gross tons. The ship measures 984 feet (300 meters) in length and falls in line as number 5 among Disney's 36 existing and former cruise ships. It’s included in Disney’s Magic Class. At full capacity, the Disney Magic holds 3,658 passengers. That includes 2,713 cruise vacationers and 945 staff members. The Disney Magic total number of staterooms is 875.

  • Gross Tonnage : 83969 GT
  • Ship Length : 984 feet (300 meters)
  • Year Built : 1998
  • Years Served : 1998-Present
  • Ship Cost : $400 Million

We hope that the above list of Disney Cruise Ships by size helped you to find your ideal ship.

If interested, we also have a post showing Disney Fish Exchange Gifts . The FE program is a ton of fun. These are time-tested, kid-approved gifts they'll love to get.

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11 Big Differences on Disney Cruise Ships You Need to Know

11 Major Differences Between Disney Cruise Ships | Comparing Disney's Cruise Ships Magic and Wonder to the Fantasy and Dream, Mickey Mouse, Animator's Palate, diapersonaplane, diapers on a plane, creating family memories, traveling with kids, family travel

Imagine every wish you’ve ever dreamed on a shooting star was granted. That’s what it’s like to sail on one of Disney’s Cruise Ships! It’s a trip of a lifetime, and offers an incredible and unique experience for everyone!

To date, Disney has four ships sailing on the seven seas. They are the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder , and her larger sister ships, the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream . 

If you’ve ever wanted to take a cruise with Disney, you’ve had to decide between her four different ships. You can’t go wrong no matter which vessel you choose, and honestly, the destinations will matter more than the individual nuances of each ship. 

But there are definitely reasons to pick one ship over the other. This article compares all four of the Disney Cruise Ships and covers the 11 big differences between Disney Cruise Ships you need to know.

11 Big Differences on Disney Cruise Ships You Need to Know Comparing Disney Cruise Ships

We’re eagerly awaiting when Disney debuts her three brand new ships slated to venture out on open water starting in 2022! The Disney Wish was just announced! We’ll definitely be there!

We’ve hit every single Disney Park across the globe , why not sail on every single Disney Cruise Ship in the fleet as well? Fine, call us obsessed .

1. Entrance

The first difference between the smaller and larger Disney ships you’ll note is when you first step foot inside. The entrance is insanely grand on every Disney Ship, but even more so on the larger ships.

The idea behind a Disney Cruise started with reentering the golden age of cruising which also includes vast winding staircases and giant elaborate chandeliers. No expense is spared.

Comparing Entrances on the Disney Cruise Ships

Everything on Disney’s bigger ships is well, bigger. This only makes sense considering how many more passengers the larger ships can accommodate. The Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy can carry up to 4,000 passengers, while the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder can carry up to 2,700. Then add another 1400+ castmembers.

The new cruise ships will be even bigger.

This is the first major difference between the Disney Cruise ships, and you’ll notice it everywhere you go.

On the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream everything is huge, from the lobby to the restaurants to the lounges to the pool deck. Size matters.  

3. Animator’s Palate

Speaking of restaurants, each ship has their own unique trio of dining experiences, but one thing they all have in common is Animator’s Palate.

On the larger ships, in Animator’s Palate you’ll get a direct window to the East Australian Current. This window is noticeably missing from the smaller ships.

During dinner, guests can watch the moonfish create shapes and guess what they are ! Little kids will want to shout their answers loud, because the moonfish won’t reassemble into a new shape until someone makes the correct guess!

This is live action fun for all, and definitely earns a mark for the bigger ships. 

Not to mention, Crush will chat it up with your family all dinner long. Just like Turtle Talk with Crush at the Disney Parks, he’ll strike up a conversation and even interrupt you if you aren’t paying attention to him.

11 Major Differences Between Disney Cruise Ships at Animator's Palette

4. Cabanas Buffet on Disney Cruise Ships

Another major difference between the two Disney Cruise vessels, also relating to food, has to do with the buffet Cabanas. It is never open on the larger ships!

The same could be said for Flo’s Cafe.

Out of the four service restaurant windows on the larger ships, you can generally only find one open come post dinner. On the smaller ships, Pete’s Broiler Bites is always serving up a mean pizza, burger, or shawarma late at night. 

Disney Cruise Buffet Cabana's Mural

And where the heck is all the cocktail food in the adult lounges after the kids go to bed? We couldn’t find a single cocktail weenie or celery stick after 10pm on the Disney Fantasy.

We don’t have two rooms just because of occupancy requirements , we have two rooms on a Disney Cruise ship because of the cocktail weenies ! That is definitely a strike against the larger vessels. The smaller ships get our vote when it comes to late night snacks!

5. Room Service

Since you can’t get as much food in the public areas of the ship, you might feel resigned to ordering Room Service.

When it comes to Room Service on Disney Cruise sister ships the Magic and the Wonder it leaves a little to be desired. That’s putting it nicely.

Not only does room service not want to fulfill your request, once they do take your order they don’t want you to include more than one item and will hang up on you before you get a second word in. 

Room Service on Disney Cruise Ships

Conversely, the Room Service on the Disney Fantasy was the complete opposite experience! They couldn’t have been more friendly or more accommodating and kept asking us if we wanted anything else .

Well yes, since you keep asking, how about all the food?

What can you get, if you can’t get food on the bigger Disney ships? Alcohol. There is a huge emphasis on alcohol on the larger Disney Cruise ships.

There is a bar in the grand entrance. There is a hidden bar around the corner from the nephew’s splash pad. The top deck of the ship is one giant bar. The middle of the pool deck has a bar.

One of the major differences between Disney Cruise ships is that on the smaller ships, you can still definitely get alcohol, you’ll just have to take a few sober steps in between access to drinks.

7. Pools on a Disney Cruise

Curiously, the one thing that is bigger on the smaller ships are the pools.

On the smaller ships, the main pool is a standard rectangle shape. The smaller ships have a lot more space to swim and provide a lot more fun doing it.

On the larger ships, they’ve decreased the swimming size of the main pool by cutting an oval out of the rectangle shape. Not only is the square footage of swimming space decreased, but also the number of swimmers. This doesn’t make a lot of sense considering the ship can accommodate 1,300 more guests! 

Disney Cruise Pools: AquaDuck

Also, another huge difference between Disney Cruise ships? No hot tubs in the main pool area on the bigger ships! If you want to sit in a hot tub you’ve got to ditch the kids and go to the adult only pool.

Not cool. Mom and Dad should be able to lounge in the hot tub while the kids create mayhem in the cold pool. Stick to the smaller ships if this is your preference. The Magic and the Wonder offer two hot tubs directly in front of the main pool area.

There isn’t anywhere close by the pool on the bigger Disney Cruise ships to watch the kids comfortably. Not to mention, because the pools are smaller, another giant adult in the pool just simply takes up more space.

8. Pool Slides

Then there are the pool slides. Every single one of Disney’s ships has the signature yellow slide. It’s fast, it’s fun, and  almost everyone can ride it. 

And it’s great, but the best cruise water coaster Disney offers is the AquaDunk! On this awesome ride you are literally dropped from the top deck into the slide as the floor beneath you gives way. It’s incredible!

Only the Disney Magic has this fantastic slide!  

Instead, the larger Disney ships have the AquaDuck: a tube water coaster. It starts from the top deck and makes a loop around the entire perimeter of the ship. It is a lot of fun, don’t get me wrong, but it’s not exactly what you’d call thrilling. 

Disney Cruise Pools and AquaDunk

The major differences between the Disney Cruise ships when it comes to pool slides, is that the AquaDunk has them all beat. In this category, the point goes to the smaller ships (or ship, in this case). 

9. Theaters on Disney Cruise Ships

We are back to comparing sizes when it comes to Disney Cruise theaters. The bigger ships are waaaay bigger, and waaaay better.

There is tons more room both in terms of seating, and how much space you get per seat.

On the smaller ships, no matter how short you are, your knees will still be touching the seat in front of you. With an award winning Broadway show to look forward to every single night of your cruise, this leaves a lot to be desired on the smaller Disney Cruise ships. 

Buena Vista Theater with Disney Cruise Movies

10. Staterooms

In order to make everything bigger on the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy, they had to make something smaller. That something smaller is your stateroom. Disney staterooms are still one of the largest in the business, but there are quite a few differences between the smaller and larger Disney ships.

  • Size of Rooms
  • Size of Shower & Tubs
  • Room Features

The rooms are condensed on the bigger vessels.

The smaller ships staterooms allow for more walkable space between the walls and the beds, and an extra set of standing drawers in the sitting area. A little bit of space in a cruise cabin makes a big difference. 

Disney Cruise stateroom: Comparing Disney Ships

When it comes to the bathrooms, the smaller ships also have shallower tubs. Our 20 month old barely had enough water to cover her body.

Whereas on the larger ships the tubs offer a standard depth.

Conversely, on the bigger ships your head will be touching the ceiling when you shower. This is not the case on the smaller ships. If you ask me personally, I’d rather have a tub for my baby to shower in because…

Family Hint: I can actually head up to the spa to shower for free in a much larger and quite luxurious shower no matter the ship.  

The last difference between Disney Cruise ships staterooms is that the lights don’t automatically work. You must insert your Key to the World card to turn on the lights on the larger ships. That, or a plastic grocery store membership card will work too.

11. Kids Clubs on Disney Cruise Ships

It was a huge bummer to find out Andy’s Room in the Oceaneer Club on the larger ships doesn’t have a slinky slide! How did that get past the genius imagineers? The distinct lack of a Kids Club playground was an obvious oversight on the larger ships! 

Plus, no secret passageway between the Lab and the Club on the larger ships. You can still roam between the two clubs without exiting, but you’ll find a giant craft room between the two instead of a covert tunnel with one way mirror windows.

Disney Cruise Kids Clubs, Andy's Room, Slinky Slide

Our Pick for the Best Disney Cruise Ship

The Disney Magic.

For one, the Magic is smaller. With a maximum occupancy of 2,700 the experience is much more intimate. You start to recognize your fellow sailors, and can even get to know a few friends in the process.

Secondly, the Magic has the Aquadunk!

On top of that, it’s easy to navigate, the ice cream flavors are more varied and change out every day, and the staterooms are bigger! Plus, it was on the Disney Magic that we crossed off our ultimate buck list item: Pompeii, Italy!

► For Kids : Kids Clubs! Eye Scream Machines! Disney Characters!

One thing that remains constant? The midship elevators. You can never hitch a ride in one of these without fighting for your life regardless of which ship you are on.

► What We Learned : There really is such a thing as the best vacation ever.

Be sure to check out our ship guides for the   Disney Magic the Disney Wonder , and the Disney Fantasy ! They have everything you need to know about each restaurant , how to make the most of visiting characters during your trip, and how to spend the perfect day on Castaway Cay . 

► Nap-Time Version : Everything you need to know to decide which Disney Cruise Ship is right for you! Comparing the 11 biggest differences between Disney Cruise Ships!

Comparing Disney Cruise Ships with everything you need to know to make a decision about which ship is right for your family!

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Diapers On A Plane

The Disney Magic was built in 1998. It was renovated in 2013. Disney Magic's exterior has a old-school steam boat feel while the interior leans into the Art Deco styling. Outside the ship, you'll see Goofy painting the name on the stern. It's 13 years older than the Dream , which was built in 2011. Disney Dream's exterior has a old-school steam boat feel while the interior leans into the Art Deco styling. Outside the ship, you'll see Sorcerer Mickey painting the name on the stern.

Comparison Overview

Number of passengers, food and restaurants.

  • Bars and Drinks

Pools and Hot Tubs

Ship features and activities, cruise costs, onboard costs.

The Magic is considered a small size ship. Coming in at 984 feet long and 106 feet wide, it's roughly the length of 2.7 football fields, as wide as 2 tractor-trailers and the same height as a 11-story building. Compared to the Disney Dream, the Magic is 35% smaller in terms of overall tons.

Disney Magic holds 30% fewer passengers than the Dream based on double occupancy (two people per room). When you look at the "Space Ratio," or the total tonnage of a ship compared to the number of passengers, the Magic has less space per person compared to the Dream.

Rapunzels Royal Table on the Disney Magic

Food is a big part of any cruise, and the ship you choose can make a huge difference in your food experience.

The Magic has 10 different dining options like Rapunzel's Royal Table , Daisy's De-Lites , and Pinocchio's Pizzeria . Of those options, 8 are complementary, or included with your cruise fare. The other 2 options have an additional fee.

The Dream has the same number of dining venues. Some of its popular venues are Royal Palace , Cabanas , and Remy . 6 of these restaurants are complementary and the other 4 have an additional fee.

The Disney Magic has about the same number of dining options as the Disney Dream.

If you're looking to avoid extra money while on board, the Magic might be a better choice then the Dream. More of the dining options are included in the base cruise fare, potentially saving you money.

Restaurants on Disney Magic & Dream

In terms of drinks and cocktails, you have a variety of choices. Both ships serve the Coca-cola family of products. That means Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite and Barqs Root Beer, although the selection can vary by ship.

There are also plenty of bars available on these ships. Alcohol is not included in the base price of this cruise ship. To see if you would save money with a drink package, try our Drink Package Calculator.

Goofy Pool on Disney Magic

Nothing beats relaxing by a pool with a nice drink in hand as you feel the fresh sea breeze pass by you. The problem is that with thousands of people on a ship, there's not always room. If you want to spend all day for 7 days in a pool, a cruise isn't for you. You would have a much better bet choosing a resort with a huge pool complex. That being said, a quick dip in the pool can be nice on a hot day.

The Disney Magic has a total of 3 pools and 4 hot tubs. Tired of loud kids and splashing? 1 of the pools and 2 of the hot tubs are adults only.

The Disney Dream has the same number of pools as the Magic and fewer hot tubs.

Both ships have lots of activities to keep you busy throughout your cruise. Below you'll see a list of some of the major features on these ships. On the Magic, 83% of the activities below are included in the cruise fare. On the Dream, only 77% of the activities are included, meaning you might spend more money while on board.

Disney is a premium cruise line. Premium cruise lines typically offer upscale food, accommodations, and service. These typically cost about $150 - $400 per person per day.

Cruise pricing is dynamic and varies for each specific sailing based on factors such as departure point, ports of call, and time of year. Typically newer ships cost more, so a cruise on Disney Magic will likely be cheaper than on Disney Dream.

Another way to gauge the cost of a cruise is to consider how much you'll spend on board. Even though a lot is included in the base cruise fare, you may still spend money on things like spa treatments, specialty dining, drinks, and excursions. In addition, guests can also have to pay for things like gratuities and tips.

Typically guests can expect to spend about 25 - 40% of the cost of the cruise on onboard expenses. In other words, if the cruise fare is $1,000 per person, you might spend between $250 and $400 on extra expenses.

The table below will help you understand what you might spend onboard a Disney ship.

With Disney Cruises, soda is included for meals, but will have an extra cost at bars and throughout the day. While no drink packages are available, you can preorder bottles of wine or beer at a discount.

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The Points Guy

The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Disney Cruise Line ship

I s a voyage on a Disney Cruise Line ship on your bucket list? You'll find a growing number of options when it comes time to pick an itinerary.

While the cruising arm of Disney has long focused mostly on voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, with year-round sailings to those destinations out of Florida, it also now offers a relatively wide range of seasonal sailings to Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, Bermuda, Europe and Canada.

The family-friendly cruise brand, notably, is expanding its footprint worldwide as it adds four new vessels in quick succession.

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

Already, the first of those ships, the 2,508-passenger Disney Wish , has arrived, boosting the size of the Disney fleet from four ships to five and allowing for more departures to the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe.

Two more sister vessels to Disney Wish are due to begin sailing in 2024 and 2025, respectively, allowing for further expansion in Disney cruise itineraries. In addition, the line has yet another new vessel coming in 2025 that isn't related to the other three. Called Disney Adventure, it's a one-off vessel originally designed for an Asian line , and it'll sail in Asia (perhaps catering mostly to Asian travelers; Disney has been mum so far on the target audience for it).

All these new ships arriving in quick succession will likely mean not just more departures to destinations where Disney Cruise Line is established but also sailings in new regions. For example, Disney has never before offered Asia sailings.

Here are our picks for the five best Disney cruise destinations you can visit with your family.

Caribbean and Bahamas

Disney Cruise Line's top destination has always been the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Since its founding more than two decades ago, the brand has based the bulk of its fleet in Florida to offer sailings to the islands. Port Canaveral, which is just an hour away from Disney's Orlando-area theme parks, has always been its biggest hub.

The line is particularly known for three- and four-night cruises out of Port Canaveral to Castaway Cay and Nassau in the Bahamas. These short getaways let families get a taste of Disney cruising that some Disney fans pair with a stay at Disney World.

The cruise line also regularly offers seven-night sailings out of Port Canaveral that visit Caribbean islands like St. Thomas and Tortola.

Related: First look at Disney Wish in photos

In recent years, Disney has also built up its Caribbean and Bahamas cruise offerings from other ports in Florida — initially Miami and, more recently, Fort Lauderdale. The ships the line has based in these ports typically offer four- and five-night sailings to Castaway Cay and one other port, such as Cozumel or Grand Cayman.

In addition, Disney is offering a growing number of Caribbean sailings out of Galveston, Texas, and New Orleans.

For 2024, the line will have four of its five ships — Disney Wish, Disney Dream, Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy — sailing to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of one of the above ports, with their home bases often shifting between them.

Disney Wish, which is Disney's newest ship, will be based in Port Canaveral year-round to operate the line's classic three- and four-night sailings to the Bahamas. These voyages are designed to be paired with a visit to nearby Disney World for a longer Disney vacation.

Disney Fantasy will also sail out of Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Caribbean year-round, offering longer voyages.

Disney Dream will spend the start and the end of the year sailing short trips to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale, with a stint in the middle of the year (from May to October) sailing in Europe.

Disney Magic will take Disney Dream's place sailing short trips to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale from May to October. During the early and late months of the year, it'll sail out of Galveston.

Come 2025, Disney will have four ships — Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, Disney Dream and Disney Magic — sailing three- to five-night getaways from Florida to the line's Bahamian destinations, including its new private beach destination Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and its long-open private island Disney Castaway Cay. Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will operate the trips from Port Canaveral, while Disney Dream and Disney Magic will sail from Fort Lauderdale.

Before taking up residence in Florida in April 2025, Disney Magic will also offer three months' worth of sailings out of Galveston, Texas, to Progreso and Cozumel in Mexico and Grand Cayman.

All of the 2025 sailings are already open for bookings.

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

Disney has cut back on voyages out of San Diego for 2024, after increasing its San Diego departures sharply in 2023. But it still offers several trips to Mexico out of the city on Disney Wonder.

For 2024, the 1,754-passenger vessel will offer a mix of three- to seven-night sailings to Mexico during March and April. Shorter three- and four-night sailings typically feature calls at Ensenada, Mexico, and California's Catalina Island. Seven-night sailings include calls at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

The big factor driving Disney's cutbacks on sailings out of San Diego in 2024 is its new focus on voyages out of Australian ports. Disney Wonder will spend much of January and February sailing out of Australian ports and then return to the region in October for another season of Australia trips.

Disney offers a wide variety of itineraries in Europe every summer, from Mediterranean voyages out of Barcelona and Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), to Northern Europe sailings out of Southampton, England.

Ranging from seven to 11 nights, Disney's Europe voyages each year typically take place on a single ship that sails from multiple home ports throughout the season. For 2024, that ship will be the 2,500-passenger Disney Dream. The line has yet to announce which of its ships will go to Europe in 2025.

Typical for the shorter itineraries the line offers in Europe are seven-night sailings out of Civitavecchia to the Greek Islands. These sailings stop in Mykonos, Santorini and Crete in Greece, as well as Naples, Italy.

Related: 17 tips for sailing on Disney Cruise Line

A longer, 11-night itinerary starting in Civitavecchia and ending in Barcelona includes calls at Piraeus (the port for Athens), Santorini and Mykonos in Greece; Messina (on the island of Sicily), Naples and Livorno in Italy; and Toulon, France.

Among Northern Europe itineraries, Disney offers focused, weeklong sailings to Norway with calls at the Norwegian ports of Alesund, Nordfjordeid, Eidfjord and Stavanger.

Disney does not have a large presence in Alaska. The line sends just one ship to Alaska each year. Family-friendly cruise rivals Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line, by contrast, each send three ships to Alaska each year, and Norwegian Cruise Line sends five vessels to the destination.

Still, Disney fans won't feel like they're missing out. The one vessel Disney sends to Alaska each year, the 1,754-passenger Disney Wonder, stays for nearly the entire summer season, from late June to mid-September and offers a distinctly Disney take on The Last Frontier.

Always beginning and ending in Vancouver, British Columbia, and lasting seven nights, Disney's Alaska sailings typically include stops at three of these four Alaska ports: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point (which three vary by departure date). Itineraries also include a visit to Stikine Icecap, which is south of Juneau.

Related: 5 reasons Disney cruises aren't just for kids

These are fairly typical ports for an Alaska cruise. But the (extra-charge) activities that Disney has organized for the ports aren't always the same as what other lines offer.

As one might expect for Disney, the line has crafted some of its shore excursions in Alaska ports with special Disney touches, such as Disney character appearances at the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp & Salmon Bake tour in Ketchikan. (Having done this one myself, I will say, for the record, that it's a little hokey; but it does get you a Disney character fix if that's your aim.)

Another shore excursion with a Disney touch is the outdoor Family Scavenger Hunt at Icy Strait Point, where participants join a local guide on a hunt for items such as clam shells and native plants, as well as a "special surprise" with a Disney theme.

Unlike many lines, Disney does not offer one-way sailings to Alaska from Vancouver or Seattle that can be paired with add-on land tours to create an extended sea-and-land Alaska vacation — something known as a "cruisetour." If that's what you're looking for, and you want to stick with a family-friendly line, you might want to consider the one-way cruisetour offerings from Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Related: The ultimate Alaska cruise guide

Disney typically offers at least one and sometimes several cruises to Bermuda each fall, ranging from quick, five-night trips to longer, eight-night sailings.

For the year just ending (2023), the line offered four such sailings, and it's offered even more than that in certain years. Alas, for the coming year (2024), Disney currently does not have a single Bermuda sailing scheduled — a bit of an anomaly.

That said, we would expect Disney to bring back its Bermuda sailings for 2025 or 2026. It's been such a mainstay of the brand.

So ... stay tuned.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Bottom line

Family-friend Disney Cruise Line is a relatively small cruise brand, with just five ships (one of its biggest rivals in the family cruise market, Royal Caribbean, has 26 vessels). But that doesn't mean its itinerary choices are limited. The line offers regular sailings to the Caribbean and Bahamas, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Bermuda and Europe.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

  • The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
  • 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
  • 15 ways cruisers waste money
  • 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
  • What to pack for your first cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

DIsney Dream docked at Castaway Cay in the Bahamas.

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  1. Differences Between the Disney Cruise Line Ships

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  2. The Complete Guide to choosing the best Disney Cruise Ship for your

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  3. Disney Cruise Ships by Size [2022] with Comparison Chart

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  4. Disney Cruise Ships by Size [2022] with Comparison Chart

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  5. 11 Big Differences on Disney Cruise Ships You Need to Know

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  6. Disney Cruise: Top Ten Tips to Enjoy the Disney Magic on Your First Cruise

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VIDEO

  1. Comparing Disney Cruise to the other ones is like... #shorts #cruiseship #cruisenews

COMMENTS

  1. Comparing 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.

  2. Disney Cruise Line: Beginner's Guide to All 5 Disney Cruise Ships

    A pioneer in family vacation ideas at sea, Disney Cruise Line (DCL) is known for its family cruises that set sail to destinations around the world, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and Australia.With themed kids clubs and hangout spaces, Broadway-caliber productions, and one-of-a-kind dining experiences, all of the Disney cruise ships offer a fully immersive storytelling experience ...

  3. Meet Our Cruise Ship Fleet

    Disney Cruise Line Ships. Stunning vessels that pay homage to the grand era of the luxury ocean liner, Disney's 6 distinguished ships pamper Guests with state-of-the-art comforts, legendary service and Disney-exclusive activities that bring families together en route to exotic ports of call. From bow to stern, each magnificent ship brims with ...

  4. The 3 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

    The Triton class is one of the three classes of ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Disney's two oldest vessels, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, make up its Magic class. Disney's two next two vessels, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, make up its Dream class. Related: 17 tips for sailing on Disney Cruise Line.

  5. Disney Cruise Line ships from newest to oldest

    The newest Disney Cruise Line ship is Disney Wish. As noted above, it debuted in July 2022. Measuring 144,000 gross tons, it's also the biggest Disney cruise ship and has more amenities than the line's older vessels. TPG has had staffers on Disney Wish three times over the past year to experience and review the vessel.

  6. Disney Cruise Ships by Size, Age and Class (2022)

    Disney Cruise Ships by Size, Age and Class (2022) Disney Cruise Line has an active fleet of four cruise ships with a further three ships on order ( Disney Wish and two currently unnamed ships). In this guide, we will cover all the different ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and how they compare to each other.

  7. [UPDATED] Compare the Disney Cruise Ships!

    The Disney Cruise Line fleet consists of five ships: Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and the newest addition, the Disney Wish. Additionally, a sixth ship, Disney Treasure, has been announced and is expected to be seaworthy some time in 2024. The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are sister ships, as are the Disney Dream ...

  8. Disney Cruise Ships Comparison (By Size & Age) (2024)

    Along with Disney Wonder, she also has the fewest decks of the fleet with just 11, compared to 14 on the newer ships. The Differences Between Disney Cruise Ships. There are four classes of ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet - Magic, Dream and now Wish, with a fourth currently named Global but this will likely change. ...

  9. The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

    The smaller two ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet are Disney Wonder and the line's first ship, Disney Magic. These two ships are 984 feet long and 11 decks high, and each has the capacity for 2,713 passengers across 875 staterooms. On these two smaller ships, 70% of passenger cabins have ocean views or verandahs.

  10. Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

    Inaugural Year: 1998. Ship Class: Magic Class. Number of Staterooms: 875. As the original Disney Cruise Line vessel, the Disney Magic retains its charm while embracing a collection of ...

  11. Disney Cruise Line 101: Comparing Every Aspect of the Magic, Wonder

    Disney Cruise Line features several original Broadway-style stage shows, which sometimes rotate to different ships. Each ship has three shows at a time. At least one is always inspired by a classic Disney movie, while another is an original story for Disney Cruise Line.

  12. Disney Cruise Ships Compared: Finding the Perfect Ship for Your Magical

    Here are some articles and guides to help you if you are sailing on a Disney Cruise or thinking of booking one. These guides will help you decide which is the best Disney Cruise ship for your family vacation whether you are a first-time cruiser or have sailed with different cruise lines previously. Disney Dream and Fantasy - Secret Staterooms ...

  13. Everything You Need to Know About Each of Disney's Cruise Ships

    Disney Magic. The Disney Magic is the company's first cruise ship and has been sailing since 1998. It's one of the classic ships, along with its sister ship, the Disney Wonder. It's one of the smaller Disney cruise ships and can hold up to 2,400 guests. The Magic underwent a significant refurbishment in 2013 and another smaller one for ...

  14. We compared every aspect of Disney's largest and smallest cruise ships

    Jan 3, 2023, 5:28 AM PST. The Magic is Disney's oldest, smallest cruise ship and the Wish is its newest, largest one. Jill Robbins. Jill sailed on the Disney Magic, the Disney Cruise Line's ...

  15. Disney Cruise Line

    The Disney Cruise Line fleet consists of the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish.. Each of our 5 ships features different designs and deck plans, as well as distinctive restaurants, entertainment, activities and pools on board to make every voyage a unique and memorable experience.. We invite you to explore and compare the features, designs and amenities ...

  16. Disney Cruises: The Complete Guide

    The Disney Wish is the newest Disney Cruise Line ship and certainly its best. It just launched in the summer of 2022. Among its many amenities, guests can find the first-ever Disney attraction at sea.

  17. Complete Guide to Disney Cruise Ships By Size

    At the time of publication, there are five Disney Cruise Line ships in three ship classes. By 2025, there will be eight ships in the fleet, across four classes. What are the differences between the Disney cruise ships? Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are both Magic-class ships built in 1998 and 1999 but completely refit in 2018 and 2019 ...

  18. Disney Cruise Ships by Size [2022] with Comparison Chart

    The Disney Wish has a construction date of 2022 and a total size of 144000 gross tons. The ship measures 1,119 feet (341 meters) in length and falls in line as number 1 among Disney's 36 existing and former cruise ships. It's included in Disney's Triton Class.

  19. 11 Big Differences on Disney Cruise Ships You Need to Know

    The top deck of the ship is one giant bar. The middle of the pool deck has a bar. One of the major differences between Disney Cruise ships is that on the smaller ships, you can still definitely get alcohol, you'll just have to take a few sober steps in between access to drinks. 7. Pools on a Disney Cruise.

  20. Which Disney Cruise Ship is the Best?

    Disney Magic. With a capacity of just over 2,700 passengers and 875 staterooms, this Disney Cruise Line ship is a bit on the smaller side compared to other ships in the fleet, but that doesn't mean it is short of offering entertainment, food, and other amenities. Its decor is considered an Art Deco design.

  21. Best Disney Cruise Line Ships and Which One You Should Choose

    The newest Disney cruise ships, also known as Dream Class ships: Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, are 40% larger than Disney classic ships. Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are 1,147 feet long, can accommodate 4,000 passengers, and have 1458 crew members — so one of the main differences is the size .

  22. Disney Dream vs Disney Wish

    Number of Passengers. Disney Dream holds 38% fewer passengers than the Wish based on double occupancy (two people per room). When you compare the total tonnage of the ship to the number of passengers, or what we call the "Space Ratio," the Dream has more space per person compared to the Wish. This means that you might have a bit more space to ...

  23. Disney Magic vs Disney Dream

    Number of Passengers. Disney Magic holds 30% fewer passengers than the Dream based on double occupancy (two people per room). When you look at the "Space Ratio," or the total tonnage of a ship compared to the number of passengers, the Magic has less space per person compared to the Dream. Disney.

  24. The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Disney Cruise Line ship

    Family-friend Disney Cruise Line is a relatively small cruise brand, with just five ships (one of its biggest rivals in the family cruise market, Royal Caribbean, has 26 vessels). But that doesn't ...