Disney Cruises: The Pros, Cons, And Why I Fell In Love

Hello, beautiful souls! 🌸

Today, I want to share something that’s captured my heart: Disney Cruises! After our first family cruise, we weren’t even home a full month before booking another. It’s safe to say, I’m hooked. Like everything, Disney Cruises come with their pros and cons, and I thought it’d be helpful to dive into both to give you a well-rounded perspective. So, let’s set sail on this topic together!

The Cons

1. It Can Be Expensive UpfrontLet’s address the elephant in the room: sticker shock. Our first cruise cost around $4,800, requiring a 20% deposit upfront ($960 for us). That can be a lot to swallow. However, we planned months ahead, saving diligently before booking. By booking nearly a year in advance, we gave ourselves 9 months to make smaller payments, which helped ease the financial strain.

For our second cruise, my husband found a discounted “moving cruise,” cutting the cost nearly in half. Deals like this can make Disney Cruises more accessible, but the upfront cost might still dissuade some.

2. It Can Be CrowdedWith thousands of guests onboard, there are moments when the crowds are noticeable—like waiting for an elevator or attending a popular deck show. While these instances aren’t constant, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re not a fan of sharing spaces with large groups of enthusiastic Disney fans.

3. There’s Potential for OverstimulationDisney Cruises are designed to be immersive, which can mean a lot happening at once. My most challenging moment was during a character meet-and-greet with Minnie Mouse. Between the lights, music, crowds, and a fussy, overstimulated toddler, it was overwhelming. While most interactions were wonderful, this experience reminded me that the excitement can sometimes be too much for little ones (and their parents).

Castaway Cay Family Beach

The Pros

1. So Much Is IncludedWhile the upfront cost may seem daunting, consider what’s included:

• Incredible meals in the main dining areas (appetizers, entrees, desserts).

• Unlimited snacks, drinks, and 24-hour ice cream machines.

• Free character interactions, pools, and games.

• Access to Disney’s private beaches (like Castaway Cay) with no additional charge.

We pre-planned excursions and gratuities to avoid unexpected expenses, and after careful budgeting, we spent less than $300 on extras during our trip. When compared to the costs of a traditional beach vacation, the value was undeniable.

2. It’s Easier Than the ParksWith a toddler, the cruise felt like a more manageable way to enjoy Disney magic. There were no long park walks or unbearable heat, and we still had access to characters, incredible food, and that signature Disney feel. For families with younger kids, this can be a game-changer.

3. The Staff Is UnparalleledDisney’s cast members take service to another level, and the staff on the cruises are no exception. From feeding my son during a fussy mealtime to wringing out our wet swimsuits and bagging them so they wouldn’t soak our luggage, their kindness left me in tears (twice!). The attention to detail and genuine care they showed made our experience unforgettable.

Is a Disney Cruise Right for Your Family?

Like any vacation, Disney Cruises have their ups and downs. The upfront cost and potential for overstimulation might give some pause, but for us, the positives far outweighed the negatives. Between the included amenities, magical experiences, and phenomenal staff, it was more than worth it.

If you’re considering a Disney Cruise, I hope this gives you a clearer picture of what to expect. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned sailor, there’s truly something special about setting sail with Disney.

(Just a note: This post isn’t sponsored by Disney or DCL—it’s simply a heartfelt review from a happy cruiser!)

Until next time, wishing you fair winds and magical journeys,

Mana ✨🚢