Is a Disney Cruise Worth the Price?

Photo credit Disney Cruise Line

For most families who look into planning a Disney Cruise vacation, there is an element of "sticker shock" when they initially hear the price… especially for travel during the busiest seasons. One of the questions I am asked most often is "are Disney Cruises really worth the cost?"

Short answer… for most families, YES.

It's true that Disney cruises come with premium pricing, but they live up to the premium expectations that come with the price tag. I could go on and on listing the reasons why Disney Cruise Line stands out in the family cruise marketplace, but here are the things that make them shine…

No better kids’ programs at sea!

I'm sure it will come as no surprise that Disney has placed a huge emphasis on their kids' programs. While other cruise lines have huge casinos in the middle of their ships, Disney has forgone the casino in favor of more space for kids’ clubs.

The kids' clubs are available each day, typically from 9 am until midnight, and you may find it challenging to get your children to come out of the clubs to spend time with the family! These highly themed kids-only spaces offer age-appropriate activities and kid-friendly spaces to explore and make new friends. The Disney characters have even been known to make special appearances in the kids' clubs.

The kids' clubs are complimentary for kids age 3-17. Kids age 3-12 can join in the fun in the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lounge (there are separate areas for younger and older kids), while tweens age 11-14 are welcome in the Edge club, and teens age 14-17 have their own space in the Vibe club. The "It's a Small World Nursery" is available for children age six months – 3 years for a nominal fee.

Staterooms designed for families.

"Spacious" is a word not often used to describe cruise staterooms, but Disney has done an outstanding job of making use of every available inch of space… and they've made sure to keep the needs of families top of mind.

Balcony Stateroom on Disney Magic
Photo credit-Starr Wlodarski

From split bathrooms that allow the sink and toilet to remain available even when someone else is in the shower, to more connecting staterooms and some rooms with small bathtubs, families will appreciate the conveniences a Disney cruise line stateroom offers.

Moms, in particular, will appreciate the fact that your stateroom attendant will visit and clean your room twice per day. In such a small space, you'll enjoy coming back from a day exploring one of the ports – or coming back from dinner and a show - to find your room neat and organized.

Stress-free dining.

Sure, all cruise lines include food… but Disney has added a few perks and conveniences that make a difference.

With character dining and unique dining experiences such as the Animator's Palate dining room that comes alive changing from black and white to full color during the course of your meal, your kids will enjoy mealtime as much as you do.

If you are traveling with little ones who may have a hard time sitting through a three course meal each night, don't worry… they've got you covered! Kids club counselors come to the dining room about midway through the late seating to pick up kids who want to head to the clubs and let Mom and Dad finish dinner in peace!

Families will also appreciate benefits such as complimentary soda and beverages available 24/7 and free room service. Most cruise lines require you to purchase a soda package or pay for drinks outside of the dining rooms, but Disney Cruise Line offers complimentary sodas from drink stations near the pool.

Stellar entertainment.

If there is one thing you know you can expect from Disney, it's outstanding entertainment, and Disney Cruise Line definitely does not disappoint!

You've probably heard about Disney's Broadway shows that are introducing a whole new generation to live theater, but did you know you can take in similar Broadway-caliber performances on your Disney Cruise?

Each evening the Walt Disney Theater will feature an impressive, family-friendly performance. Expect to be wowed by these hour-long productions. They are the perfect length to keep kids entertained without exceeding the limits of their attention span.

But the entertainment doesn't stop there… your cruise director and cast members have a lot more fun in store for you!

There are ticketed (but complimentary!) character meet and greets where you'll have the opportunity to meet groups of your favorite characters with a minimal wait and lots of time to spend interacting. Characters are often found wandering the ship and interacting with guests at random times as well.

And we can't forget the parties! 

No one does a deck party quite like Disney!

 These nighttime dance parties have themes like "Pirates IN the Caribbean" or the Frozen themed "Freezing the Night Away." You can interact and dance alongside some of your favorite characters or hang back and enjoy the themed food and drinks available at the party. The night ends with a spectacular fireworks display… an event that is unique to Disney Cruise Line.

Castaway Cay

One of the highlights of any Bahamian or Caribbean cruise with Disney Cruise Line is sure to be a day spent at their private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.

Your Castaway Cay visit is likely to be everything you dream of when you think of an idyllic beach day in the Caribbean! With its soft white sand, crystal blue water, and relaxing atmosphere, you may never want to get back on the ship!

Castaway Cay is widely considered to be the top cruise line private island experience, and it's no surprise why. There are plenty of activities for the whole family  from snorkeling, swimming, biking, and more… or you can just relax in a hammock with a frozen beverage if that's more your style!

Since Disney owns the island, there is no need to bring your wallet… food and most activities are included in your cruise fare and any adult beverages, souvenirs or excursions can be charged to your stateroom account.

These are just a few of the reasons why a Disney Cruise is worth every penny. I could go on for hours explaining even more… and I'd be happy to talk with you about just that if your family is ready to start planning your cruise vacation!

Choose the Right Cruise for Your Family

When clients come to me looking for a “fun for the whole family” vacation with lots of activities for the kids but still gives Mom and Dad time for relaxation, a family cruise is almost always among my list of recommendations.


Cruises are an excellent way for families to see the world and have a ton of fun along the way. Cruise ships have become almost like a destination unto themselves… and they take you to some pretty exciting and scenic locations as well.

There are so many fantastic ships and itineraries out there that it can be hard to pick the one that is right for you.


Here are my top tips for things to consider for your first family cruise…


Get the kids involved in planning.

Find out what your kids feel is the most important part of a cruise vacation. Are they excited by the activities on the ship or by the adventures they can have in port? Are there specific things they want to experience or are looking forward to? There is something for everyone but knowing where everyone’s priorities lie will help you sort through the options.


Does size matter?

When it comes to choosing the right cruise ship for your family, size does matter. Smaller cruise ships feel more intimate, and your family may have an easier time finding your way around on board. You’ll have more interaction with the crew as well, but you may be one of the few families onboard. On the other hand, the larger “mega ships” have more activities and more options for dining. There may be more extensive kids programming available on the larger ships if that is something that is important to you.

Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class Ship

photo ©Royal Caribbean International

Short trip or longer escape?

Whether you are looking for a long weekend or a two-week holiday, there are cruise options available. Consider the amount of time you have for your vacation. Longer cruises allow for more sea days in addition to your days in port. Don’t underestimate the importance of having some time to explore and enjoy your cruise ship. Sea days often provide the relaxation that you are hoping to get from your vacation.

Relaxing on a Sea Day

How important are the dining options?

For many of my clients, dining is a huge part of their cruise vacation! Cruise lines can vary widely in their approach to dining. From the atmosphere to type of cuisine, the options are just about endless. Do you want traditional cruise dining with an assigned dining time, dining room and table where you get to know your wait staff and table mates? Or would you prefer a system with multiple dining options where things operate more like a restaurant where you can either make a reservation or show up when you are ready to eat and wait for the first available table? Do you want a ship where all of the dining options are included in the cost of your cruise, or do you want the opportunity to pay a nominal fee for specialty or premium restaurants on board (though free dining options are always available as well!)?



What type of accommodations do you want?

A cruise ship may feel like a floating hotel, but the type of rooms available are much less flexible. Many staterooms are only set up to accommodate 2 or 3 people with a limited number of rooms designed for 4. Families of 5 are even more limited in their choices. While some ships have a handful of larger rooms for groups of 5, others do not have options for more than 4 people. Are you looking for rooms that connect with a door between them? Those can be limited as well. You may need to book early to make sure you can get connecting rooms.


Stateroom considerations go far beyond just occupancy. How important is the view outside your room… or are you okay with sacrificing a view at all to save money? For some families, the ability to relax on your balcony while you have breakfast is non-negotiable. For others, an inside stateroom with no window at all is perfectly fine, but that saves hundreds is absolutely fine. And where do you want to be on the ship? Is proximity to the “action” like the dining rooms, kids’ clubs, and other activities important to you? Is anyone in your party susceptible to sickness? If so, your cabin location becomes very important.



Top Tip… Get Help from an Expert

An expert travel planner knows the right questions to ask to match your family to the perfect cruise ship and itinerary. They will also guide you through the process of selecting a stateroom that meets all of your needs and expectations and will assist you with planning activities and shore excursions that will be fun for all members of your travel party.


Travel professionals often have access to special pricing or amenities that are not available to the general public. Whether or not your selected sailing has special pricing available, a travel professional such as those here at Cruise Planners-Unique Family Adventures are well versed at ensuring that you get the best possible pricing for your cruise. They can advise you on your best options for everything from pre or post cruise hotel options to travel insurance and shore excursions. We have agents who have cruised as children and now are cruising with their children.

Great Ideas for a Fall Family Vacation

Okay, maybe your job or the kids sports or band camps are keeping the family from taking a traditional family summer vacation.  But that doesn't mean you can't take a family getaway.  Just because summer is over, doesn't mean the fun is over.  There is no better time than the fall to get away for a few days or even a week to savor our kids, laugh with our spouse and just enjoy time as a family.  Here are some great Fall getaway ideas that the whole family will love and always remember.

Exercise Your Ski Legs at Mountain Resorts

Before the snow falls, mountain resorts have lots of activities and lodging bargains, making them a great choice.  Mountain bike, hike together and leave some road trip time to watch the aspen change color.

Aspen, Colorado is the place to hike, mountain bike, fly fish, golf, disc golf on the highest disc golf course in North America and indulge at a spa when hotel rates are as much as 50% off in one of the most spectacular times of the year in Aspen.  Check out the guided hikes at the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, enjoy yoga on Aspen Mountain, and enjoy some of the best food and shopping around.

This fall make Sugarbush Resort in Warren,VT part of your scenic foliage getaway.  Daily activities include golf at Sugarbush's Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed course, lunch and apres at Hogan's Pub, and hiking  along the Long Trail in the majestic Green Mountains.  Weekend and holidays through Columbus Day bring scenic lift rides on top of Dadd Peak, disc golf on two 18-hole courses and over 20 miles of lift-served mountain biking.  Kids activities include splinting and bouncing - both on the bungee trampoline and in the inflatable course.

Jackson, Wyoming is the gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks and fall is an ideal time to visit - after the summer crowds are gone.  Unlike other snow resorts, Jackson is busier in the summer the the winter.  Explore Grand Teton National Park with an expert from the Teton Science Schools and see the wildlife in Yellowstone.  Go horseback riding and experience the authentic Wyoming ranching culture.  Ride the tram up at Jackson Hole snow resort and mountain bike or hike down.

Kick Back at a Island Resort

You'll find top values, warm weather, world class beaches, and fun seasonal festivals on the major Caribbean islands, and lower cost flights in the shoulder season between Labor day and Thanksgiving. The combination makes traveling to the islands a great family getaway, whether for a quick weekend or even for a week during a fall school break.

With three locations in Turks & Caicos and Jamaica, Beaches Resorts is the ultimate family getaway with waterparks, XBOX Play Lounge, the Scratch DJ Academy, exclusive Kids Camps, teen nightclubs, Certified Nannies, Butler service, and Red Lane Spas.  Beaches has been partnered with Sesame Street - little ones can spend time with their favorite friends from the Sesame Street gang with daily activities and weekly stage shows.

Take the whole family for a long weekend in Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands - no passports are required.  A little closer to home, the city of Nassau in the Bahamas is serviced from most major U.S. airports, and allows you quick access to world class Atlantis Resort, which offers something great for the entire family, and is located on Paradise Island.  For something more exotic, head for an outer island of the Bahamas and  "Two Fly Free from Nassau".

Just be mindful that Fall is also the height of the Caribbean hurricane season.  Don't let that ruin your family vacation plans. Check what kind of hurricane plan your hotel has, and look into purchasing low cost travel insurance; which will cover your costs if something did happen.

Cruise From a Home Port Near Your Home

You have some 30 ports to choose from and you can go for a long weekend or  a week, whether you want to head to Bermuda from New Jersey, up to Canada from Boston or New York, the Caribbean from Galveston or Florida or Mexico from California.  Check with your travel professional; great shoulder season deal are available and you might still be able to snare a deal for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

And whether your kids are not in school yet or you're looking for an adult getaway, opt for a cruise  on a luxury liner instead of a driving trip to see the best of the fall foliage.  With luxurious dining, accommodations, entertainment and activities in the price, it is an experience you will truly love.  Many of the major cruise lines sail special New England and Canada itineraries at this of year.  Princess Cruises offers great and really memorable 7 on the Regal Princess and 10 night itineraries on the Caribbean Princess from New York in the Fall.

Norwegian Cruise Line is a great way for a family to enjoy a cruise.  The cruise line's newest ships; the Norwegian Breakaway sailing from New York to Bermuda and the Caribbean and the Norwegian Getaway; sail year-round from Miami to the Caribbean are made for families.  Both have some of the largest water parks at sea complete with a splash zone for the littlest cruisers, huge sports complexes, Broadway productions, Nickelodeon Characters and over two dozen different dining options.

Disney Cruise Line sets the standard for family cruises.  Sailing from Galveston as well as Florida and the West Coast some at certain times during the Fall.  You'll find a nursery at sea, all the characters and princesses your kids want to see and first-rate kids and teen facilities and programming including for Halloween this year.  Plus you get the accommodations and service which Disney is known for, and everyone loves Disney's private island.

The Best Short Cruises for 2015

   

  When most people think about taking a cruise, they envision a full week sailing on a cruise ship to some exotic locale.  For many travelers, this exactly what they are looking for.  But for many others who would love to take a cruise, the thought of being on a ship for a full week will actually discourage them from taking a cruise.  Whether you do not having enough vacation time, or your lifestyle does not allow you to get away for a full week, or maybe you're a first-time cruiser who does not want to commit to a full week at sea; it does not mean you can't do a cruise.  The cruise lines get that you can't do a seven-night cruise, and the result is they are offering an increasing number of shorter cruise options.

       The three-, four-, or five-night sailings are often affordable priced, and travel to many popular destinations, especially in the winter/spring sailing season.  The cruises tend to be on older ships that have smaller cabins with fewer balconies, and lack many newer amenities like specialty bars and restaurants or water slides.  While these short cruises have had a reputation for attracting a party-hearty crowd looking for cheep fun, the cruise lines are now focusing more on attracting families, and travelers want the features and quality experience that a newer cruise ship has to offer.  The cruise lines are now offering some of their newer ships, and want to give the family or the cruiser for a better quality ship experience, the ability to enjoy a cruise experience in a shorter time frame.

Here are some winter and spring short cruise highlights for 2015:

Disney Cruise Line:  The cruise line who wrote the book on modern family ships operates 2 ships for shorter cruises.  From Port Canaveral, FL. (near Orlando); the Disney Dream sails on 3 and 4 night sailings to Nassau and Disney's private island , Castaway Cay, in the Bahamas.  Sailing from Miami, the Disney Wonder, in addition to 4 night sailings to the Bahamas is doing 5 night sailings to the Western Caribbean.

Princess Cruises:  Offering 4 and 5 night itineraries to the Eastern and and Western Caribbean on the Caribbean Princess from Fort Lauderdale, and sailing from Los Angeles, the Crown Princess visits Mexico on 4 night cruises.  These modern, innovative ships offer new dining and ship experiences in a casual yet elegant environment.

Royal Caribbean Line:  Offering newer and recently completely reconditioned ships, Royal Caribbean offers modern conveniences on a number of their short cruises.  From ships offering majority balcony cabins, to water slides and rock climbing walls to flexible and specialty dining to state of the art entertainment: these ships offer something fore everyone.  The Enchantment of the Sea does 3 and 4 night sailing to the Bahamas, including a stop at Royal's private island of Coco Cay, from Port Canaveral.  From Fort Lauderdale, Liberty of the Sea; and from Tampa, Brilliance of the Sea, both sail on 4 and 5 night adventure to the Western Caribbean.

Celebrity Cruises:  The Celebrity Constellation sails 4 night cruises to the Bahamas and 5 night cruises to the Western Caribbean.  The ship offers its guests modern and elegant sophistication with world class dining for people who want a little more in their travels.

Yes, Your Teens will Really Love that Disney Cruise!

       So, you have a family with older children and you are planning on taking a cruise with them.  As you research different cruise lines or ask your travel agent for suggestions your find out that one of the highest recommended cruise lines for families are the ships of Disney.  You know the name Disney and families are synonymous with the word fun; but only for families with younger kids.  Your kids are past the Mickey or Princess stage, and you envision a cruise with bored teens surrounded by screaming 4 year old kids and Disney characters.  That was my thought, as I was planning a cruise last winter to get away from the brutal weather we had in the Midwest.  My family, including my 17 and 13 year old sons, have taken plenty of cruises, and I will admit to being somewhat of a Disney geek.  Even after taking my kids to Disney World 13 times over the last 8 years, and the idea of a Disney cruise with my teens was never even considered.

       But after my wife convinced me to try a 3 night cruise on the Disney Magic to their private island Castaway Cay with the boys, all I can say is all my preconceived notions were wrong and WOW!  Everything we love about staying at Disney World; including the service, the professionalism, the magic, and and the variety of age appropriate activities for everyone was also surprisingly found on the Disney Magic.  The layout of the ship never made it feel crowded, and allowed for both the adults and the teens to have their own areas and activities.  Disney has great kids clubs that are organized by age. Both my 17 and 13 year old sons where in different clubs with other kids their age.  From the activities and age appropriate parties organized by the counselors, to just hanging out and  getting free ice cream, they both admitted they had a blast.

       What my wife and I loved was the great adult only areas and activities; including a great pool, coffee bar and and great adult only restaurant, Palo, we never felt that we where surrounded by hundreds of children.  Then add the great shows, and the great food, and the water slides, and the movies, and the activities on Castaway Cay, and... well all I can say is everyone admitted to having a great time and wished the cruise had lasted longer, and my kids keep asking when we are doing our next Disney cruise.  So take it from a man who was hesitant, and find out what thousands of other families already know: Disney Cruises are a great time for the entire family, no matter what their ages.  And to answer my boys question; ASAP!!