Hey there, future Disney cruisers! Ready to embark on an adventure with Mickey and the gang? In this post, we’ve got you covered with all the insider tricks and Disney Cruise Tips for First Timers to make your experience magical from start to finish.

Disney Cruise Tips for First Timers

Preparation and Planning

Researching the destinations, familiarizing yourself with onboard activities, and making reservations for must-do experiences like character meets and specialty dining are crucial steps to ensure a smooth sailing.

Ship & Itinerary Research

Before you even start booking your first Disney Cruise, spend some time researching the different ships, itineraries, and onboard activities. Trust me, there’s a lot to choose from, and you want to make sure you pick the perfect fit for your family’s interests and preferences.

Deciding which ship size is best for your family is a great place to start.

Set a Budget

The dreaded B-word. But seriously, setting a budget for your Disney cruise is essential to avoid any post-vacation financial stress. Consider not just the cost of the cruise itself but also extras like travel to and from the embarkation and disembarkation city/cities, hotels the nights before and/or after, plus shore excursions, specialty dining, tipping, and souvenirs.

For us, containing our budget meant cheapest ocean view stateroom, skipping Bippity Boppity Boutique, Royal Tea, and specialty dining, and carrying our own alcohol on board (keep reading to find out Disney’s generous allowance.)

Book Early

Disney cruises tend to fill up fast, especially during peak seasons like school breaks and holidays. So, once you’ve decided on your cruise, don’t wait too long to book! Booking early not only ensures you get the stateroom you want but also gives you access to early booking perks and discounts. It is not common for Disney Cruise discounts to pop-up closer to the sail date.

Choosing the Right Stateroom

One of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the perfect stateroom for your family. Whether you prefer to squeeze more out of your budget with an inside stateroom, want natural light with an ocean view, or want to splurge on a comfortable veranda with a balcony for extra space during nap times, you have options!

Also consider deck location. If you choose a stateroom a middle floor, you’ll rarely need to rely on an elevator (unless you’re using a stroller/wheelchair.) If you choose a room near the stairwells, you can get around quicker and might be spoiled with more pixie dust!

Check Passport Requirements

Depending on your cruise itinerary, you may need a valid passport or other travel documents. Double-check the passport requirements for each destination you’ll be visiting and make sure everyone in your party is good to go.

Pack Smart

Start making a packing list well in advance and add to it as you think of things. Our guide on what to pack is included below or check out our full post and printable.

Plan Your Port Days

While onboard activities are a blast, don’t forget about the ports of call!

Research each port ahead of time and decide which activities or excursions you want to do. Whether it’s snorkeling in the Caribbean or exploring ancient ruins in Europe, planning ahead ensures you make the most of your time ashore.

If you aren’t stoked about a particular port, its a great opportunity to have the ship’s amenities practically to yourself!

Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App

This little app is a necessity during your cruise. Not only does it provide a daily schedule of activities and entertainment, but it also allows you to message other guests onboard and make reservations for things like dinner and character meets.

We appreciated the notifications for anything on the schedule we had favorited and we were even notified when our laundry was finished.

Leading up to your cruise it is also a useful resource to plan your trip and complete the pre-board check in process. 

Do your Disney “Homework” with the Whole Family

Perhaps the most fun on our list of Disney Cruise tips and tricks is to expose your family to as many Disney stories and characters as possible leading up to your cruise.

Prior to booking our first Disney cruise, our kids hadn’t seen any of the classic Disney shorts featuring Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, Pluto, etc. They really got a kick out of them and were so much more excited about spotting Goofy and Donald onboard than they otherwise would have been.

Since we were sailing the Disney Magic, we also watched Tangled so that the themed dining and Tangled the Musical theater performance made more sense to my kids.

Disney Cruise Jargon

I’ll admit, I was a bit overwhelmed by the amount of Disney insider jargon that was strewn about as I started researching Disney Cruise tips for first timers.

Here’s a list of Disney cruise jargon that first-time cruisers might not be familiar with:

• KTTW Card (Key to the World): This is your all-in-one card onboard the Disney cruise ship. It serves as your stateroom key, onboard charge card, and identification for getting on and off the ship at ports of call.
  
  Your Key to the World card can be found in a sealed envelope outside your stateroom door.

• Pixie Dusting: This refers to the little surprises and magical touches that Disney crew members sprinkle throughout the cruise experience. It could be anything from a special treat left in your stateroom to an unexpected encounter with your favorite character.

• Fish Extenders: These are hanging organizers that guests bring onboard to participate in a fun gift exchange activity. They’re typically hung outside stateroom doors and used to deliver small gifts and treats to other guests during the cruise.

• Sleep Walking Characters: These are special appearances by Disney characters that occur late at night or early in the morning when most guests are asleep. It’s like stumbling upon a magical moment when you least expect it! There’s not a sure fire way to find out about these happening, but we suggest joining a cruise WhatsApp group so that if someone spots one and drops it into the group, you can try to get a glimpse as well.

• Cast Member: This term refers to any employee or crew member working onboard the Disney cruise ship. Cast Members are dedicated to providing exceptional service and creating magical experiences for guests.
• Rubber Duckies: No, we’re not talking about the ones you find in your bathtub! On cruises, guests often bring small rubber duckies to participate in a fun game of “duck tagging.” It’s a cute way to connect with other cruisers and spread some Disney magic. This isn’t officially sanctioned by the cruise line, but most cast members look the other way.

• Horn Battle: This refers to a friendly exchange of horn blasts between cruise ships, typically as they depart from or arrive at port. It’s an especially fun tradition when two Disney ships are in the same port because their horns play the melody of many favorite Disney songs.

• GTY (Guarantee Stateroom): When booking a cruise, guests have the option to choose a specific stateroom or opt for a GTY booking. With GTY, you’re guaranteed a room in the category you select, but the specific stateroom assignment is made by Disney closer to the sailing date.
• Navigator App: The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app is a handy tool that guests can use to access information about onboard activities, dining options, entertainment schedules, and more. Disney doesn’t hand out paper programs, so it’s crucial to have this (and a charged phone) with you at all times.
• Pin Trading: Several stateroom doors may have pin trading stations with a honor system “take a pin, leave a pin” exchange.

• Art of the Theme Tour: If your cruise offers the Art of the Theme tour which enlightens guests of all the hidden details of the ships’ decor, don’t miss it!
• Lighthouse Point: You may have heard of Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. Well, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is another Disney private beach! (Starting Summer 2024)
• Castaway Club: This is Disney Cruise Line’s loyalty program. Returning cruises and frequent cruisers have extra perks like complimentary gifts and advanced booking.

These are just a few examples of Disney cruise jargon that you might encounter during your first voyage. Part of the fun of cruising with Disney is learning all about the unique traditions and experiences that make it so special!

Character Interactions and Entertainment

Get ready for a voyage filled with unforgettable character interactions and entertainment that will leave your hearts soaring. As a parent who has sailed with my two young sons, I can attest to the sheer joy and excitement that comes with meeting your favorite Disney characters onboard.

One of the highlights of any Disney cruise is the chance to meet beloved characters from classic Disney tales. Sure, you may have to wait in line for a bit, but trust me, the payoff is worth it. Each interaction is incredibly intimate and attentive, with the characters giving your child their undivided, quality attention.

I’ll never forget the look of pure delight on my oldest son’s face after meeting Mickey Mouse for the first time. His eyes sparkled with joy, and he couldn’t stop talking about it for days!

Now, my youngest son was a bit shy about meeting the characters up close. (I think they were bigger in real life than he expected.) But that didn’t stop him from enjoying the magic from the safety of our arms.

Another fun aspect of the character meets is that they change outfits throughout the cruise. For example, formal night, pirate night, beachwear at Castaway Cay, and more! 

One character experience that shouldn’t be missed is the Royal Gathering. This enchanting event brings together four Disney princesses for a regal meet-and-greet. It’s a magical opportunity for little princes and princesses to chat, pose for photos, and even get autographs from their favorite royalty.

Throughout your cruise, you’ll also have the chance to dance along with your favorite Disney pals at character dance parties.

And let’s not forget about the Broadway-style shows in the theater. These spectacular performances bring classic Disney tales to life with dazzling costumes, stunning choreography, and unforgettable music. From “Tangled” to “Beauty and the Beast” to “Frozen,” the whole family will be mesmerized by the talent and magic onstage.

Onboard Activities and Amenities

Disney Cruise Line offers a wide variety of activities for guests of all ages. From splash zones, pools and thrilling waterslides to relaxing spa treatments and engaging kids’ clubs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Kids’ Club

If you’ve traveled with children before you know how blissful and rare it is to steal moments of relaxation. Having a Kids’ Club our children were excited to hang out in made a word of difference and is a major reason we splurged on Disney Cruise Line’s price tag.

The Kids’ Club on Disney is the best you’ll ever find and they’re included in the cruise price for ages 3+ (as long as they’re potty trained.) Anyone younger can utilize the Nursery for a fee.

Our kids were always excited to squeeze in more time at the kids’ club, which gave my husband, myself, and our other adult travel companions a chance to grab a drink before dinner or enjoy time at the adult only venues of the ship.

If kids ever want to be picked up, they notify a kids’ club staff member and you’ll get a notification through the Navigator App.

Castaway Cay even has a great kids’ club outside! Lots of sand, a splash pad, and more kept our kids happy for the two hours we enjoyed quiet time on the beach.

They also have automatic handwashing stations that are mandatory when going in and out and also after restroom use.

The wristband they’re given on embarkation day (or the Magic Band + if you have one) allows easy check in and check out of the club and it tells the staff exactly where in the club your child is currently playing so they can easily locate them in a timely fashion. “Noah’s in Pixie Hollow, I’ll have someone bring him over.”

This strap for the band was really helpful for my 3 year old because he kept trying to pull it off and we worried he’d lose it. It’s one of the essentials I share in my Disney Cruise Packing List.

Waterslides

Check the pool deck’s waterslide height requirements in advance so your kids don’t get their hopes up for a thrill they won’t be able to partake in.

Bingo

A paid experience we really enjoy is Disney Cruise Line’s Bingo. Kids are allowed to play along with a parent and the entertainment value is high. It costs about $30 to play, depending on if you want physical (paper) bingo cards or if you want to purchase the computer to automatically track the numbers called. I was glad to have spent an extra $6 for the computer because we had to rush out twice for potty emergencies.

Disney Photo Package

Some parents say that if they purchase the unlimited photo package, its a deal. Others felt that it added pressure to be at EVERY character interaction to get their money’s worth.

Decide if its right for your family. Keep in mind the cast members will happily take a photo with your phone/camera as well.

Staying Connected: Phone and Internet Usage

While onboard, you can communicate with other cruisers within the Navigator App. Your iMessage and WhatsApp messaging will also work via the ship WiFi without purchasing one of their pricey internet packages.

Relaxation and Wellness Options Onboard

Take some time to unwind and pamper yourself at the ship’s spa and fitness center. Treat yourself to a soothing massage, rejuvenating facial, or invigorating workout to recharge your body and mind.

Packing Essentials for a Disney Cruise

There are a few unique packing essentials for Disney cruises that you should know about.

• First up, you’ll want to decide if and how you’ll collect character autographs.
• Find out which themed night(s) are on your sailing. All have a Pirate night so don’t forget some swashbuckling attire. The Disney Magic hands out bandanas on Pirate Night, but other ships have discontinued this.
  
  Marvel Day at Sea and Frozen Deck Parties also occur on some sailings.
• Door Decorations are fun and a great help in locating your stateroom in a long hallway. Don’t forget to put out a bag for pixie dust!
• Reusable Water Bottles minimize trips back to the soda station with their little cups.
• Beer or Wine – At the time of writing this article, each cruiser is allowed to carry on two bottles of wine or six 12 oz beers on embarkation day AND each day returning from a port. This is a very generous allowance and can save a ton of money!
  
  We tipped our stateroom attendant $20 on day one along with our request to stock our room with a couple wine glasses each day. We carried our wine to dinner and were not charged a corking fee.

I have several more tips on items to pack as well as prohibited items in our full guide to packing for a Disney Cruise.

Food & Drink

Rotational Dining

Yet another way Disney differentiates itself is with its rotational dining model.

On Disney cruises, guests rotate through different themed restaurants each night of their voyage. This allows you to experience a variety of cuisines and atmospheres while dining onboard. Your waitstaff moves with you!

There are two seatings for dinner, one at 5:30pm and another at 8pm. Theater performances are typically at 6pm and 8pm. A late dinner seating might allow your family more time at the pool without crowds, if your kids can handle late night meals.

The buffet closes after lunch and doesn’t reopen for dinner. If you don’t do restaurant dining you can choose from room service (free other than tip) or pool deck food.

Specialty Dining

For additional cost, $50+ per person, you can book dinner reservations in specialty dining restaurants for adults only.

Tip: If you plan to book specialty (adult) dining like Palo or Remy, try to book during one of your dining nights where there is not a show, or perhaps a dining room that you are scheduled for more than once.

Be sure to make reservations for any specialty restaurants you’re interested in trying and don’t miss out on the delicious cuisine offered onboard.

Alcohol

Drink packages are not sold on Disney Cruise Line sailings. There are wine packages and daily drink specials though.

To save money, consider carrying on the allotted amount of wine or beer I mentioned in the Packing section of this article.

There are also numerous mixology classes and liquor tastings offered onboard for a fee of about $40-$50 per person.

Espresso Drinks

If you want more than Cafe Americano from the restaurants or buffet, you have to check out Cove Cafe. While beverages here are for an extra fee, they are fairly priced and the stenciled designs on top your latte are the perfect dose of magic to kick off your day.

All the pastries in the cabinet are free. Don’t forget to ask for a few!

Port Days and Shore Excursions

Ports of Call

When the ship docks at various ports of call, take the opportunity to explore and discover new destinations. Whether you’re snorkeling in the Caribbean, exploring ancient ruins in Mexico, or shopping for souvenirs in Alaska, shore excursions are a fantastic way to get a taste of the local culture.

Shore Excursions

Guided tours are offered through the cruise ship or private guides at each port.

Typically you can save money if you book privately, but when booking through Disney at least you know the ship won’t leave without you.

Be sure to book in advance and check the terms and conditions. For example, if booking with a private guide, be sure they offer a full refund if your cruise cancels a stop at their port for some reason.

Exploring Disney’s Private Island – Castaway Cay

One of the highlights of a tropical Disney cruise is a visit to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the pristine beaches, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoying a barbecue lunch with ocean views, Castaway Cay is a must-see destination.

Castaway Cay 5K

We really enjoyed kicking off our morning by completing the 5K route on the island. There’s no registration required and everyone who completes the race is awarded with a non-metal medal.

Check out our guide on everything you need to know about the Castaway Cay 5k. Also, be sure to print out your own Castaway Cay Race Bib with our race bib freebie!

Disney’s Unique Check In Process

My husband and I have traveled on seven different cruise lines and we’ve never had such a lengthy online check in before. That said, embarkation was a BREEZE which was much appreciated with kids in tow!

Thirty days before sailing, first time cruisers can check-in and select their embarkation time slot. This process involves uploading pictures of passports, head shots of each traveler, and also completing registration for the kids club. It’s also when you can try to snag a coveted spot at the Royal Gathering and book many of the paid onboard activities / specialty dining.

Castaway Club members (those who have cruise with DCL before) get to signup for most activities earlier than first time cruisers: port excursions, drink tastings, Bippity Boppity Boutique, Specialty Dining, and drink tastings.

This excludes Royal Gathering, which opens the same night for all cruisers.

Disney cruisers are known for being ON THE BALL. They login at midnight on their check-in day to get first dibs on activities, dining, and early embarkation. You’ll want to do the same, especially since repeat cruisers have already had the chance to sign up for these things a few days earlier.

If you do NOT get a reservation you had your heart set on, don’t be discouraged or give up yet. Go straight to the guest services desk when you board the ship to find out if anything has opened up or additional events have been added. (i.e. Royal Gathering, Royal Tee, specialty dining, and more)

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks for Embarkation

The day of embarkation, be sure to complete your Health Questionnaire which can be found in the Navigator App.

Before your cruise, you’ll receive all your bag tags in the mail. Slap these on your non carry-on items and baggage drop off is a breeze. Tip the baggage handlers about $1 per bag at drop off.

From there, you’ll hop in the queue labeled for your embarkation time slot. Staff will ask for your Port Arrival Form and all passports.

Kids who have registered for Kids Club and do not have a magic band already will be given wristband to use for the duration of the cruise.

From that point, its just minutes before you’ll be stepping onboard! Each family is welcomed aboard on the microphone and introduced by name. A character will be around to greet you as well. The magic begins!

Cabins are typically ready around 1:30-2:30pm the day you embark. Keep in mind you will be lugging around anything you chose to carry on until this point. Try to keep the bare necessities with you, but don’t forget pool clothes, medications, your port arrival form, and passports in your carry on.

Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks for Debarkation

Baggage for Debarkation

The night before debarkation, guests are given color coded tags to attach to any baggage they’d like the porters to take off the ship for you. These bags must be set outside your stateroom door by about 10:30pm.

Future Cruise Placeholders

For a $250 deposit, you can lock in a 10% off discount on your next Disney Cruise.

You have two years to book the future cruise and apply this discount. If you end up changing your mind, you can request a refund of the $250 before that two year window closes.

The only catch, you need to do this before debarkation in the Navigator app! It’ll be charged to your stateroom account.

Understanding Tipping

Tipping is customary on Disney cruises, and gratuities are conveniently charged to your onboard account. On the second to last evening, you’ll receive a Gratuity Summary and envelopes for distributing tips.

Be sure to show your appreciation for the exceptional service provided by the crew throughout your voyage. A couple ways to let them know how much they’ve amplified your cruise experience are to 1) Throw some additional cash in with the tip receipt which you place in an envelope and hand directly to the cast member. 2) Write thank you notes or have the kids draw them a picture.

We tipped our stateroom attendant throughout the cruise rather than waiting until the last night.

Debarkation Info

As your Disney cruise comes to an end, familiarize yourself with disembarkation procedures to ensure a seamless departure. You can find an informational video on the TV in your stateroom.

Don’t forget to return the Kids Club wristband at your last check out from the Kids Club. Otherwise you will be charged $13 for the band.

Also, you can browse any photos connected to your stateroom at photos.disneycruise.com for free on ship WiFi, but only until you leave the ship!

Closing Thoughts on First Time Disney Cruise Tips

So there you have it, your comprehensive guide to embarking on your first Disney cruise adventure!

Trust me, it’ll be here before you know it, and you’ll be sailing off into the sunset with Mickey and friends before you can say “bibbidi-bobbidi-boo”!

Have fun and lean into all the magic of your Disney cruise experience!

Save Disney Cruise Tips for First Timers for Later