10 More Super Tips for a Perfect Disney Cruise Experience
Building on the tips you’ve already mastered, here are ten more strategies to ensure your Disney Cruise is absolutely magical. These tips cover everything from planning your trip to enhancing your onboard experience, ensuring you make the most of your time at sea.
1. Pack a Power Strip or USB Hub
Staterooms on Disney ships often have limited outlets, especially if you’re traveling with family and have multiple devices to charge. Bringing a power strip or USB hub (non-surge protected, as surge protectors are not allowed) can help you keep all your devices charged without having to unplug lamps or other essential items.
2. Join Facebook Groups Related to Your Cruise
Before setting sail, join Facebook groups specifically related to your cruise. These groups are often organized by sail date and ship, allowing you to connect with fellow cruisers, ask questions, share tips, and even arrange meet-ups or join Fish Extender groups. These communities are invaluable for getting insider advice, learning about special activities or unofficial events, and making new friends before you even board the ship.
3. Take Advantage of the Castaway Cay 5K
If your itinerary includes a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, consider participating in the Castaway Cay 5K. It’s a fun and active way to start your day on the island, and you’ll receive a medal at the end. Plus, it’s a great way to explore the island before the crowds arrive. Remember, registration is free, and you can sign up at Guest Services once onboard.
4. Decorate your Door
Once onboard, you’ll see a LOT of doors covered with Disney Themed Magnets. Note I say magnets and not stickers, as they are not allowed by Disney, so the metal doors of your stateroom provide a canvas for creative magnets and themes. Our preferred supplier is ShipShape Magnets, who make custom Disney themed magnets ideal for any cruise, or as a special fridge souvenir.
5. Consider a Fish Extender Gift Exchange
Fish Extenders are a fun, unofficial activity among Disney cruisers. Participants hang a pocketed organizer (the “fish extender”) outside their stateroom door, and other cruisers deliver small gifts during the trip. It’s a great way to add a bit of extra magic to your cruise, especially for kids. You can join Fish Extender groups on social media platforms like Facebook before your cruise to connect with other participants.
6. Plan for Pirate Night
Pirate Night is one of the highlights of a Disney Cruise, featuring themed activities, a pirate-themed dinner, and an epic deck party with fireworks. Bring pirate costumes for the whole family to get into the spirit—many guests go all out! Disney provides a free bandana in your stateroom, but a full costume can make the night even more memorable.
7. Use the Complimentary Beverage Station
Disney Cruise Line offers a complimentary beverage station that’s open 24/7, providing soft drinks, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. Take advantage of this to save on buying drinks, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Bringing a refillable cup or water bottle can make it easier to take drinks back to your room or to the pool deck.
Top Sea-sickness Tip – I do know that they did have Ginger Ale at one stage in these beverage stations, but not when I last looked – the staff have Ginger Ale at the restaurants though. It helps a lot, along with green apples (the goodness is in the skin!).
8. Attend the Animation Classes
Disney Cruise Line offers fantastic animation classes where you can learn to draw your favorite Disney characters. These sessions are led by talented Disney artists and are fun for both kids and adults. It’s a unique experience that adds a creative touch to your cruise, and you get to take home your artwork as a special souvenir.
9. Book Spa Treatments for Port Days
If you’re looking to unwind with a spa treatment, consider booking it for a day when the ship is in port. Many guests will be off the ship exploring, so the spa is quieter, and you might even find some discounts. The Senses Spa & Salon offers a variety of treatments, from massages to facials, and booking during port days can enhance your relaxation without missing any onboard activities.
10. Explore the Ship on Embarkation Day
Use embarkation day to familiarize yourself with the ship before it gets too busy. Explore all the decks, locate key areas like the dining rooms, kids’ clubs, and pools, and get a sense of the layout. This is also a great time to take photos of the ship when it’s not as crowded, and you’ll feel more comfortable navigating throughout your cruise.
Disney From Ireland 