When it comes to planning a family vacation, a Disney cruise is often at the top of the list for many parents. And who can blame them? From character meet and greets to Broadway-style shows, there’s something for everyone on a Disney cruise.
But with so many ships in the fleet, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose. That’s where this article comes in – I’ve ranked all of the Disney cruise ships from best to worst based on public opinion, so you can make an informed decision on which ship will provide the best experience for your family.
Let’s face it – choosing the right ship for your family can make or break your vacation. For example, my friend chose the Disney Dream for her family’s first cruise, but they found that the ship was too large and overwhelming for their tastes. On the other hand, another friend sailed on the Disney Magic and loved the cozy, intimate atmosphere.
That’s why it’s important to know the features and highlights of each ship before making a decision. So without further ado, let’s dive into the rankings and see which Disney cruise ship comes out on top.
- Disney Cruise Line has multiple ships in its fleet, with the oldest being the Disney Magic and the newest being the Disney Wish.
- The best Disney cruise ship according to customer reviews is the Disney Dream, closely followed by Disney Fantasy, and the ship that came last still has a respectable score of 3.8 out of 5.
- Each Disney ship has its own unique features and itineraries, so choosing the best ship will depend on individual preferences and needs.
- Disney private islands, Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point, are included in some itineraries and add to the overall Disney experience.
Ship Fleet Overview
As I scan through my research, I’m transported to the magical world of Disney Cruise Line’s fleet. The fleet ranges from the largest and newest ship, the Disney Wish, to the smallest and oldest ship, the Disney Magic. Each ship has its unique features and charms.
It’s fascinating to learn that the Disney Wish has a passenger capacity of 5,000 and a gross tonnage of 144,000, making it the largest ship in the fleet. On the other hand, the Disney Magic is the smallest ship in the fleet, with a gross tonnage of 83,969.
Apart from the ships, Disney Cruise Line also owns private islands, including Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point. These islands provide an exclusive experience for Disney Cruise Line passengers, with plenty of water activities and excursions.
It’s exciting to know that each ship has its own itinerary and features, making it essential to choose the right ship that suits specific preferences and needs.
Disney Dream vs Disney Fantasy
In my opinion, both the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are fantastic options for anyone looking to go on a Disney cruise.
If you’re looking for a shorter trip, the Dream is the way to go. It offers 3-night and 4-night sailings, making it ideal for those who want a quick getaway.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a longer cruise, the Fantasy is your best bet. It’s perfect for those who want to take a 7-night cruise and explore more of what the ship has to offer.
When it comes to differences between the two, the Dream is the ship that hosts the Marvel at Sea experience, where guests can meet up to 30 Marvel characters during their cruise.
On the other hand, the Fantasy offers the Star Wars Day at Sea experience, which is a must-do for any Star Wars fan.
Both ships offer a range of entertainment and activities, but it’s important to choose the ship that best suits your needs.
Overall, whether you choose the Dream or the Fantasy, you’re guaranteed to have a magical experience on a Disney cruise.
Disney Wonder and Disney Magic
Funny enough, the two smaller Disney ships, the Wonder and the Magic, have their own unique features that make them just as enjoyable as their larger counterparts.
The Disney Wonder, launched in 1999, is currently offering cruises to Alaska, which is a fantastic opportunity for families to experience the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness while enjoying the Disney magic. The ship has been well-maintained, and its public spaces are spacious and elegant. Passengers rave about the adult-only restaurant, Palo, which offers exquisite cuisine and impeccable service. The kids’ clubs are also highly rated, and families enjoy the character meet and greets and the Broadway-style shows. Overall, the Disney Wonder offers a fantastic family vacation experience, especially for those who want to explore Alaska.
The Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the fleet, but it has been refurbished several times, and it remains a favorite among many Disney cruise fans. The ship has a classic feel, with elegant decor and a cozy atmosphere.
One of the unique features of the Disney Magic is the AquaDunk water slide, which provides a thrilling ride for both kids and adults. The ship also offers a variety of dining options, including Animator’s Palate, which transforms into a colorful, interactive experience during dinner. Families love the daytime entertainment, such as the quizzes and games, and the character meet and greets are always a hit.
Despite being smaller than the other ships in the fleet, the Disney Magic still offers a fantastic vacation experience, especially for those who appreciate classic elegance and a cozy atmosphere.
Disney Wish Overview
I was excited to learn about the newest addition to the Disney cruise fleet, the Disney Wish, and the unique features it has to offer.
With a passenger capacity of 5,000 and a gross tonnage of 144,000, the Disney Wish is the largest ship in the fleet.
It has the first full Disney attraction at sea, the AquaMouse, a water coaster that takes guests on a ride through 760 feet of winding tubes.
There is also a Toy Story-themed district where kids can play in Andy’s room and ride the Slinky Dog Dash water slide.
Adults can enjoy the Quiet Cove pool area, which features a bar and a pool with a swim-up bar.
But the real stars of the show on the Disney Wish are the crew members, who get the most mentions in reviews.
Passengers love just how hard they’re working to offer that typical Disney experience.
Unfortunately, some reviewers have noted issues with bottlenecks and split restaurants that cause crowds and long delays.
However, overall, the Disney Wish seems to be a fantastic addition to the Disney cruise fleet, with plenty of onboard experiences for all ages to enjoy.
Crew and Service
Honestly, the crew members on the Disney Wish are the true highlight of the cruise experience, with their exceptional service and dedication to providing that special Disney magic.
From the moment we stepped on board, we were greeted with warm smiles and helpful hands. The staff seemed genuinely happy to be there, and their enthusiasm was infectious.
Throughout the trip, they went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed, whether it was bringing us extra towels or making sure we had a seat at the show. Their attention to detail was impressive, and it was clear that they had all received extensive customer service training.
It’s no surprise that staff satisfaction is high on the Disney Wish, as they’re treated well and valued for their hard work. This translates into exceptional service for guests, and it’s what sets Disney Cruise Line apart from other cruise lines.
The crew members on the Disney Wish truly care about making sure guests have the best possible experience, and they do everything in their power to make that happen. From the waitstaff in the restaurants to the housekeeping staff who kept our room spotless, everyone we encountered was friendly, helpful, and dedicated to providing top-notch service.
It’s clear that Disney invests a lot in its staff, and it pays off in the form of happy guests who become loyal customers.
Entertainment and Activities
Now that we’ve talked about the crew and service on Disney cruise ships, let’s move on to the next important aspect of any cruise experience: entertainment and activities. And when it comes to Disney, there’s no shortage of things to do for all ages.
One of the highlights of a Disney cruise is the live shows. From Broadway-style productions to character meet and greets, there’s something for everyone. The quality of the shows is consistently praised in reviews, and many guests say they’re better than what they’ve seen on land.
Additionally, the kids clubs on board are top-notch, with activities and experiences tailored to different age groups. Parents can feel comfortable leaving their children in the care of the trained staff while they enjoy some adult-only time.
Overall, if you’re looking for a cruise with plenty of entertainment options, you can’t go wrong with a Disney cruise.
Itineraries and Destinations
Navigating the vast sea of Disney itineraries and destinations is like charting a course through a magical treasure trove of adventure and excitement. Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of cruise length options, ranging from 3-night sailings to 14-night voyages, with itineraries that take you to popular ports of call such as the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and even transatlantic crossings. Depending on your preferences, you can choose to embark on a relaxing beach vacation, explore historical landmarks, or immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine.
Here is a table that summarizes the cruise length options and popular ports of call for each Disney ship:
| Ship Name | Cruise Length Options | Popular Ports of Call |
|---|---|---|
| Disney Dream | 3, 4, and 5 nights | Bahamas and Caribbean |
| Disney Fantasy | 7 nights | Caribbean |
| Disney Magic | 3, 4, and 5 nights | Bahamas and Caribbean, Europe |
| Disney Wonder | 3, 4, and 7 nights | Bahamas and Caribbean, Alaska |
No matter which ship and itinerary you choose, you can expect to experience the same level of Disney magic and customer service throughout your journey. Each destination is carefully selected to provide a unique and unforgettable experience for guests of all ages, and the activities and entertainment onboard are designed to complement and enhance your time on land. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned veteran, Disney Cruise Line has something for everyone.
Review Summary
After researching thousands of customer reviews and three big cruise ship review websites, I’ve found that each Disney ship offers a unique experience and has its own strengths and weaknesses.
Overall, the Disney Dream comes out on top as the best Disney cruise ship according to customer reviews. Passengers rave about the quality of the entertainment, the variety of things to do, and the amazing crew. The ship also hosts Marvel at Sea, an experience where guests can meet up to 30 Marvel characters on their cruise.
The Disney Fantasy follows closely behind, with many positive reviews about the ship’s luxurious amenities and excellent service. However, some negative reviews criticize the ship for being too kid-focused, which may not be ideal for adult passengers.
The Disney Magic, despite being the oldest ship in the fleet, still receives positive feedback for its well-maintained facilities and fantastic family-friendly activities.
Ultimately, choosing the best Disney ship will depend on personal preferences and features, but these review trends and customer feedback analysis can help guide you in making the right decision.
What are the differences in dining options between the Disney cruise ships?
Main dining vs. rotational dining is offered on all Disney ships. Specialty dining options vary by ship and include adult-only options. Families can enjoy character dining experiences while adults can opt for fine dining. Each ship offers unique dining experiences.
Are there any adult-only areas on the Disney cruise ships?
Yes, all Disney cruise ships have adult-only areas for entertainment and nightlife. These areas include nightclubs, lounges, and bars. They offer a more relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere away from the family-friendly areas.
What type of staterooms are available on the Disney cruise ships?
Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of stateroom features and cabin categories, including inside, oceanview, balcony, and suite options. Some suites even come with a personal concierge and access to exclusive areas like the Concierge Lounge.
Do the Disney cruise ships have any eco-friendly initiatives?
Disney Cruise Line has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives and sustainability efforts on their ships. These include reducing waste, conserving water and energy, and using environmentally friendly products. They also support ocean conservation and have partnerships with organizations like the Nature Conservancy.
Are there any special events or activities offered exclusively on certain Disney cruise ships?
Disney Cruise Line offers unique character experiences and onboard entertainment on each ship. The Disney Dream hosts Marvel Day at Sea, while the Disney Fantasy offers Star Wars Day at Sea. The Disney Magic has the AquaDunk water slide and the Disney Wish has the first full Disney attraction at sea, the AquaMouse.