DISNEY CRUISE TIPS & TRICKS

My family and I went for an impromptu cruise on the Disney Magic this past month, (our second trip on this same ship) so I thought I’d share some tips with you on how to get the most magic out of your Disney Cruise!

Research

This is obvious, but more necessary than you think since there’s no Internet connection on the boat, unless your willing to break out the Benjamin’s for the slowest connection of your life. Research ahead of time where you’re going and if the activities you’re interested in are offered on the island. You’ll find that paying for activities hosted by local companies on the island are cheaper than booking them through the cruise line.

In Nassau, Bahamas we figured out the cheapest and most scenic way of transportation was a water taxi for a mere $4 per person, which included a pretty hilarious complimentary tour! It takes you to the other side of the island where you want to make sure and visit The Atlantis Paradise Island Resort. Once you’re there make sure you lounge out and enjoy the rays at one of their coveted beaches. For those shopaholics spend the afternoon window-shopping downtown and explore the city’s charm on foot. A day of fun all for less than $200!

 The last stop was to Disney’s private island, Castaway Keys. This is as “deserted island” as it gets, so I suggest paying for an excursion. My sisters and I chose the stingray encounter. For $45 per person you get one of the most exhilarating, unique opportunities to encounter these creatures up close and personal. Another option is to rent paddleboats, floats, and stand-up paddleboards to take out on the water. This will cost you anywhere from $5-$12 each. I took full advantage of this and tried stand-up paddle boarding for the first time!

In summary, my tips are if you’re visiting a country do as the locals do. Get a taste for the culture and think to yourself, if you can try it at home then leave it; opt to try something new. If you’re on a private island such as Castaway, pay for an excursion!

The Itinerary is Your BFF

Every morning room service will deliver an itinerary with all the day’s activities happening on the boat. The amount of things this cruise offers is unreal. From critically acclaimed Broadway shows, to Disney movies that aren’t even out in theaters yet, great games for adults and kids and character meets. There’s so much to do and you can’t be everywhere at once, so bring a highlighter and make note of the ones you can’t miss!

Try Everything  

The great thing about booking your vacation on a cruise is that it’s all-inclusive. Once you’ve paid, you’re living like a king for the next few days! A few things you do have to pay for once you’re on the cruise are spa treatments and booze, which is definitely allowed on board in your carry-on!!!! (Specific regulations about that here.)

Okay maybe that was the only tip that mattered, but how do you feel about food? Disney has some of the most distinguished chefs whipping up culinary masterpieces on the cruise’s several restaurants and choosing just one dish is probably the hardest decision you’re going to make your entire vacation.

Here’s the good news, you don’t have to pick just one! Little known secret, you can order one of everything you want at no extra charge! At dinner we would split the entrees and order one of everything allowing us to try some really spectacular dishes. Next time you’re on a cruise order two, three or all of your favorite dessert and entrees!

Leave room for spontaneity!

Everything can’t and shouldn’t be planned to the T. Embrace the last-minute changes, mess-ups, unusual food and whatever else life throws your way. Chances are those are the moments you’re going to remember and cherish the most. Hope these tips help! 

Happy sailing! Hope you have a truly magical time!