Let me start by saying that I haven't had the good fortune YET to take a Disney Cruise. But I was lucky enough to get to tour the Disney Dream when I was in Florida last year for an agent education program. I took a few pics of the ship and would love to share those with you. Based on all that I saw, I can't wait to set sail someday soon!!
We were in Port Canaveral, but Disney sails out of Galveston, San Diego, Miami, New York and many other departure ports. The ships sail anywhere you can imagine - including Europe and Alaska! Be sure and save some time by doing as much of your check-in as possible online before you get to the port - I can help with that!
There are 3 pools on this ship - one of them is an adult-exclusive pool. Keep in mind that while the other pools are kid-friendly, you can't swim in them unless you are potty-trained! Swim diapers are only allowed in the splash area (Nemo's Reef on the Dream). The main pool has a 24-by-14-foot LED screen called Funnel Vision on which you can watch classic Disney animated features or live-action movies.
For the thrill seekers, be sure and take a ride on the AquaDuck which is an exciting 765-foot-long water coaster that transports Guests on an exhilarating journey up, down and around 4 decks, over the side of the ship and through the Forward Funnel
Trust me when I say you won't go hungry. There are 3 different restaurants that you rotate through each evening for dinner and you keep your same wait-staff since they rotate with you! If you want something more casual, there are a couple of quick-service type restaurants on board. And don't forget, there is 24-hour complimentary room service!! If I ever do make it on a cruise, I'll be eating my weight in Mickey bars for sure.
There are a few food items that aren't included in your cost of the cruise... Vanellope's Sweet and Treats sells ice cream, gelato and candy. But looking at the price list, it's not that expensive. If you want something a bit different than the standard ice cream that is compliementary, check this out. There are also 2 adult-exclusive restaurants (Palo and Remy) that aren't included. Might be worth it for some time alone though!
On board, you'll find all of your favorite characters for Meet and Greets! Some require a ticket (it is free but you need a reservation) and some you'll find randomly throughout the ship. We were lucky enough to be greeted by Mickey as we boarded the ship!
Although you want to spend your vacation with your family, it's nice to have an option if you want to do the adult-exclusive dining or other activity. Disney Cruise Line provides Disney-themed youth clubs, areas and immersive interactive programs and activities designed to allow your child’s imagination to soar while aboard the Disney Dream. Honestly, after seeing the youth clubs, I imagine I would have a hard time dragging my boys out of them!
The Small World Nursery is adorable for children aged 3 months to 3 years. It does have an additional charge though and you need reservations.
Have someone traveling with you that loves sports? So does Goofy! There are a lot of options for the sports-lover to enjoy.
If you're into nightclubs and dancing, you have several options! Take advantage of the kids' clubs and hit the dance floor!!
There are 2 theaters on board - a movie theater and a theater for a Broadway caliber show. Currently the Dream is doing Beauty and the Beast.
There is so much more to a Disney Cruise that I haven't even touched on here. Most itineraries sail to Disney's private island - Castaway Cay. You also have the option to book some amazing Port Adventures in the ports that you visit (these are an additional charge). You'll also enjoy Fireworks at sea, Deck parties, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Spa and Fitness amenities, Midship Detective Agency, Shopping... And did I mention free Mickey bars??
The least expensive rates on a Disney cruise are when the itineraries are first released. So if you're thinking of taking a cruise, let me know as soon as possible so that we can get you the maximum fun for the least price.
Oh and if you're like Don and a bit of a germaphobe, you need to know about these awesome automatic hand washers that you have to use to get into the buffet line. Now you have no excuse to not sail with Disney!! Call me - my services are FREE to you!!
