At just 20 years old, Jayme Keffalas has been on more Disney Cruises than many people could dream of in a lifetime. She is from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but is currently living in Orlando. Her blog, The Northern Prepster, features tips on topics that cover Disney, Travel, Fitness, and Fashion.
Since my parents are Disney Vacation Club Members, I grew up going to Disney numerous times a year and have been on 10 Disney Cruises!
For those of you who haven’t been on a Disney Cruise, let me give you some first-timer Disney Cruise tips!
The Disney Dream docked at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island. PC: Krystal Healy Photography
NEVER miss the stage shows OR your planned dinner dining.
Even if you are not a lover of the arts, anyone can appreciate these Broadway-quality shows – and of course, they are filled with Disney magic.
The Walt Disney Theatre is THE spot to catch the best Broadway-style shows at sea. You don’t want to miss it! PC: Krystal Healy Photography
And while sit-down dinner dining is optional (meaning that even though it is booked for you, you are not obligated to go), you won’t want to miss it! The food is exceptional and all-inclusive. Plus, the servers will literally let you pick as many appetizers, entrees, and desserts you want.
Be their guest and take advantage of it!
My personal favorite restaurant aboard the DCL, Animator’s Palate. The restaurant transforms from black and white to a world of color. And I hope you don’t mind sea turtles, Crush from Finding Nemo loves to make an appearance! PC: Krystal Healy Photography
Before your cruise, I recommend either staying on Disney property where you can be bussed to the port, or staying in a hotel nearby the night before.
For Port Canaveral, I personally recommend the Radisson. Not only does it have a beautiful pool, but they also can take you to the port in the morning!
Don’t be afraid to stay on the boat on days docked.
There is SO much to do on the boat, and I promise you won’t be able to see and do it all.
The family pool deck aboard the Disney Dream. Yes, that is a clear tube water slide. PC: Krystal Healy Photography
If you get off of the boat anywhere but Castaway Cay, I highly recommend booking an excursion through Disney Cruise Line. This will almost guarantee you’re going to be safe and have a great time!
Expect early mornings and late nights.
You know those vacations where you need a vacation AFTER the vacation? Yeah, you can expect that aboard the Disney Cruise Line. Like I said before, there is so much to do, it can be overwhelming.
One of the many adults-only bars aboard the Disney Dream. This is the wine and champagne bar appropriately named Pink. PC: Krystal Healy Photography
While you will find time to relax, you may also find yourself having a long day filled with adventure and fun!
Don’t forget, Disney Cruise Line is for those of ALL ages!
So many people give my family weird looks when we say we are going on a Disney Cruise. I am the youngest one in my family and we all have a blast. My first Disney Cruise was when I was only 3 years old, my most recent when I was 19. I have fond memories in the kids’ clubs and teens clubs. These are memories I’ll never forget!
And for those looking for some time without the kids, there are quite a few adults-only pools, bars, and clubs on board.
A small portion of the adults-only pool and deck area aboard the Disney Dream. PC: Krystal Healy Photography
But let’s answer the question you’re all probably wondering. When is the best time to go on a Disney Cruise?
If my memory serves me right, the only months I haven’t sailed with DCL is October and February.
In my experience, the best months to cruise are April, May, and September.
These months tend to have smaller “crowds” on the boats (depending on holidays obviously), but more importantly this is when the weather will still be stellar!
The family pool deck aboard the Disney Dream. Yes, that is a clear tube water slide. PC: Krystal Healy Photography
My last Disney cruise was in November for my sister’s wedding a few years back. While the sun was out and shining, the water in the Bahamas was FREEZING.
Once while cruising in January, my family experienced the first snow in the Florida Keys in recorded history. In the summer you can almost guarantee your cruise will be sold out, creating bigger crowds. And there’s always an increased possibility for hurricanes.
Have more questions about Disney Cruise Line or Disney Cruise Line weddings? Feel free to contact me on my site TheNorthernPrepster.com or on my Instagram @TheNorthernPrepster. I’d love to help y’all out by answering your questions!
Have you been on a Disney Cruise? Tell me in the comments what you liked the most!
If you like this post, you may also like:
Confessions of a Disney Annual Passholder
Hidden Treasures at WDW Resort Hotels
ALL PHOTO CREDIT TO KRYSTAL HEALY PHOTOGRAPHY https://www.krystalhealy.com. All rights reserved.
Addie
I remember attending a Disney Cruise wedding without any kids and it was hands down the best service I’ve ever had!! It really is for all ages. So cool and from these photos, it looks like it was GORGEOUS!!!!
Julie
I’m planning my first cruise Ever with DCL for Feb 2020…..I enjoy reading tips and ideas I’m very excited and I’m 51!!
Keri
Enjoy it! So glad you found the article helpful!