So, I grew up with Disney, as did many people of the same or similar “vintage” as me. We all know the appeal it has to children and how it can set even the smallest of imaginations running wild with its pure charm, delightful characters, and enchanting stories. But I truly believe that what becomes lost on some as we age (like my travel partner) stays firmly planted in the psyche of a true Disney fan.
My mission was to set forth and discover if the world of Disney, on a cruise ship, would deliver the same magical experience for a holiday as it does for families with their children gazing starry-eyed at their surroundings.
I’ve sailed on my fair share of cruise lines, so I know the drill for embarkation day: line up with a few thousand other keen holidaymakers, drop those bags, do a quick cabin once-over, and get to the food and drinks before heading up on deck for the sail away.
We were treated to a very iconic sail away on Disney Wonder as we sailed under the Sydney Harbour Bridge while the ship’s horn tooted “When You Wish Upon a Star” (epic touch, Disney!).
Just to the side of us were some very special guests new to Disney: Bluey & Bingo, fantastically positioned for their bridge shots along with the Opera House as we sailed out. Luckily, there were staff on hand to make sure these Heeler kids were not bombarded by some very excited fans with that starry-eyed look.
After leaving the harbour with its jealous ferry goers, we headed off to explore the ship. If you love pools, then Goofy’s Pool is the centre of the action with its tumbling waterslide Twist ‘n’ Spout and nearby toddler splash area Dory’s Reef. But if you’d rather float than tumble and scream, you’ll find the Quiet Cove Pool (Adults Only), where you can sip on a cold bevvy from Signals Bar or enjoy a hot cappuccino with an artistic twist at Cove Café.
One of the biggest surprises was that, even though there were many kids onboard, once we left the calm of the Quiet Cove, it really didn’t feel overrun. This could be because there is SO MUCH to entertain them on board. From watching the latest Disney movies as well as some classics in the Buena Vista Theatre to navigating a bursting itinerary of activities at one of the three youth clubs. Enjoying games all around the ship, or seeing one of the Broadway-quality shows in the Walt Disney Theatre. I am sure those cozy, comfy beds in our well-appointed staterooms were filled with the most imaginative dreams once the little ones ended their days.
Speaking of which, let’s talk cabins. Our Deluxe Oceanview Veranda Stateroom was ideally located on deck 6 and was lovely and spacious with a separate toilet and bathroom. Yes, you heard that right. The wisdom that is Disney has split these areas, and it works so well. This, combined with more storage space than I had clothes soon becomes your very comfortable home away from home and a place to retreat if you need some alone time. During the cruise, I was fortunate enough to inspect some Family Staterooms and Concierge suites, including the AMAZING accessible 1-bedroom concierge suite with veranda and the ultimate in luxury with the Walt Disney Suite. Some of these options sleep up to 7 people, so there’ll be none of this “2 adults/2 children only” talk.
Now, for some cruisers, their goal is to be up early for a smoothie and a quick jog around deck before hitting the gym for a workout and finishing with a spa or massage. Others (me) get their steps in for the love of food. Thankfully, Disney caters to both types of travellers with the fitness centre, Senses Spa & Salon, and three included dining rooms where guests rotate so they can experience different themes like Tiana’s Place (inspired by Princess and the Frog), Triton’s (inspired by The Little Mermaid), and Animator’s Palate, the interactive dining show where you get to be a part of the story. Not to mention the many options for quick bites like Pinocchio’s Pizzeria or Daisy’s Delights, and nobody could resist a soft serve from Eye Scream Treats.
On my quest to discover the appeal that Disney Cruise Line would have for guests without children, I discovered that there is no clear-cut right or wrong fit; instead, there is great appeal for all ages. The joy that exudes from the children’s faces when they are met on their level by Mickey or a Princess or one of the great range of characters wandering the ship is infectious. This enthusiasm spreads to parents, grandparents, and friends and is the BEST kind of infection you can catch. This concept lends itself extremely well to multi-generational holidays, where grandparents can share the enjoyment with their grandchildren or even reminisce with their own children about how they remember Disney from their own childhood. There are still plenty of chances for them to do “grown-up” things like enjoying some musicians while relaxing in one of the Adult Exclusive Lounges, and nobody will ever tell you that you’re too old (or young) to laugh, cry, silly dance, draw, or eat ice cream at any given time of the day.
For those who might never be fully Disney-fied, fear not! Sharing the joy with your Disney-obsessed travel partner can be just as magical. After all, if laughter is the best medicine, there’s no better place to find it than on a Disney cruise.
So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply along for the ride, there’s plenty of enchantment to go around.