Category Archives: Cruises

2022 Black Friday Travel Deals

Are you ready to end 2022 in a new destination or start planning an adventure for 2023? There are some amazing deals available now that you can take advantage of to make your travel plans even more affordable. Check out all of these Black Friday travel deals and let your next vacation be your best one yet.

Save up to 50% at Discovery Cove in 2023

You can give your family the gift of paradise, and memories that will last long after the holiday season is over. Book an all-inclusive day filled with amazing animal experiences, plus unlimited food and drinks (including beer and wine).

Save up to 50% on visits through December 31, 2023! Book now- the most popular dates will sell out fast! This offer ends November 25, 2022.

Instant Savings, Kids Sail Free & More on Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Embark on an epic adventure with bold offers, big memories and countless thrills onboard Royal Caribbean’s game changing fleet. It’s a vacation – and a deal – you’ll never forget!

Biggest Savings Ever: Score up to $600 off
Invite Everyone: Save 30% off every guest
Perks of Being a Kid: Kids sail free

Black Fri-YAY: Up to $300 Off + Incredible Discounts & More

Here’s something to SALEbrate: getting a jump (for joy!) on your holiday shopping! The Black Fri-YAY sale is ON, which means no waiting in line, online or… well, no waiting at all to get that good deal!

Ask me how I can get you up to $300 off nearly ANY package, $100 off United Airlines flights to Hawaii, hotel discounts up to 60% off, bundled transfers and tours, and more when you book travel through December 15, 2023 before Thanksgiving.

Up to 65% Off, Instant Credits and More at Sandals & Beaches Resorts

No other place in the world captures the imagination more than the Caribbean. Sandals all-inclusive resorts are set along the most gorgeous tropical settings and exquisite beaches in Saint Lucia, Jamaica, Antigua, the Bahamas, Grenada, Barbados and Curacao. Stay, play and indulge to your heart’s content at any of these Caribbean resorts and experience the best the islands have to offer- featuring unlimited gourmet dining, unique bars serving premium liquors and wines, and every land and water sport, including complimentary green fees at their golf resorts and PADI certified scuba diving. Learn more about Sandals Luxury Included Vacations today!

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Greatest Deal Ever

For a limited time, the second guest cruises FREE to Europe, Alaska, the Caribbean and beyond. Come aboard these award-winning ships and enjoy Free Unlimited Open Bar, Free Specialty Dining and more! Take advantage of the Greatest Deal Ever on all ships, all destinations, all over the world. But hurry, this offer won’t last!

Save Up to 15% at Disneyland Resort Hotels This Winter

You can save up to 15% at a Disneyland Resort hotel on select Sunday to Thursday nights now through December 22, 2022.

Make your visit even more magical by upgrading to a Walt Disney Travel Company vacation package- complete with Theme Park tickets- and you will enjoy a variety of special extras!

Book your magical vacation by December 15, 2022 for travel through December 23, 2022!

Secure your Sailing with Virgin Voyages & Let Me Do the Rest

Introducing LetsGoBook- a sharable link connecting your booking with my First Mates account. After using the link to secure your sailing date, I can update and customize your voyage, giving you access to review all the upcoming details. It’s also the perfect way to take advantage of Virgin Voyages’ Sail with Friends offer, which includes both you and your squad receiving a $50 cabin credit when you’re onboard – plus, I can oversee all the details and link your booking together. Explore Virgin Voyages today!

Double the Good Times at Universal Orlando Resort

You can enjoy four days of fun at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure when you purchase a 2-Park, 2-Day ticket. For even more theme park thrills, you can add Universal’s Volcano Bay at an additional cost.

Purchase by December 31, 2022 for travel through December 31, 2023.

Save Up to 30% with G Adventures Cyber Sale

Cue the confetti, it’s officially Cyber Sale season! Running through November 30, you can save up to 30% on a massive number of the best adventures all across the world, including select Antarctica Expeditions, when you travel by April 30, 2023. And if you’re looking to travel a little later, you can still save 10% on select trips departing between May 1 and June 30, 2023.

Featuring trips from all different Travel Styles, there’s an adventure on sale that’s guaranteed to get you squealing with joy. Immersive Classic trips. Majestic Expedition trips. Zen-inducing Wellness trips. Whatever adventure is chosen, you can feel good knowing it’s covered by Guaranteed Departures. Once you’re all booked and paid, that’s it, you’re going. That’s their guarantee.

Save 20% or More on Thousands of Hotels

With a minimum 20% off thousands of hotels worldwide, we can plan dream trips at dream prices. Book early and secure great deals for winter holidays or spring break next year.

Book by November 28, 2022 for travel through June 30, 2023.

Receive a Disney Gift Card during Transfer Week

Do you want to get up to $100 FREE Disney Gift Card to spend on your upcoming Disney vacation? If you booked a Disney World package (by phone or online directly with Disney World), you can add me to your reservation to help plan the rest of your visit with Mickey Mouse. It is a simple process to get a FREE Disney Gift Card and a lot of free perks!

My services are FREE (Disney pays me to help you plan your visit)

The Disney Gift Card amount varies based on your package total:

$2,000- $2,999: Free $25 Disney Gift Card
$3,000- $3,999: Free $50 Disney Gift Card
$4,000-$4,999: Free $75 Disney Gift Card
$5,000+: Free $100 Disney Gift Card

To qualify for the transfer, the package must be booked within the last 30 days and not yet paid in full. The gift card will be delivered at check in.

Support Give Kids the World Village

Did you know that a portion of every booking is donated to Give Kids the World Village? Give Kids the World Village is an 89-acre, nonprofit “storybook” resort in central Florida. This resort is located right down the road from Disney World. GKTW works with Make a Wish chapters to provide children with critical illnesses and their families a week long, cost free vacation. The families stay at GKTW Village and spend their days at the Orlando theme parks. And, in honor of Giving Tuesday, we are doubling our donations for all vacations booked through the end of the month.

Which one of these Black Friday travel deals are you most excited about?

Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information today!

My 10 Favorite Things About the Disney Wish

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I recently had the opportunity to experience Disney’s long awaited, fifth cruise ship in the fleet, the Disney Wish and am so excited to share with you my experience sailing on this incredible new vessel. The Disney Wish is Disney’s largest ship to date and features the motif of enchantment throughout the staterooms, dining options and guest areas onboard. It truly is Disney’s best ship yet!

Without further ado, here are my ten favorite things about the new Disney Wish:

New Immersive Dining Experiences

The Disney Wish introduced three new restaurants to Disney Cruise Line: Arendelle, Worlds of Marvel and 1923. Both Arendelle and Worlds of Marvel offer an interactive dinner show experience, complete with characters! 1923 is a beautiful restaurant paying homage to the Walt Disney Animation Studios, being named after the year it was founded. The menus at each of these restaurants had a nice variety of themed dishes, like the churros in 1923, kjottkake in Arendelle and golden mystic pasta in Worlds of Marvel.

I also really enjoyed the new quick service dining options added to the pool deck through Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods. We still enjoyed the guest favorite, all you can eat ice cream cones Disney Cruise Line is famous for, but were able to try delicious new quick service options like Donald’s Cantina and Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue.

Disney’s Oceaneer Club

Disney’s Oceaneer Club is probably every child’s favorite part of a Disney Cruise Line vacation! The Disney Wish has introduced an even more immersive and interactive kids club experience than we have seen on the other ships.

Kids can learn what it takes to be an intergalactic creature handler in Star Wars: Cargo Bay as they manage some mischievous creatures from across the galaxy, including a porg, Loth-cat, worrt and more. Then, throughout the cruise, they can track and study these exotic beings through a series of special assignments using augmented reality-enabled data pads. They may even receive an important mission to deliver a pair of secret stowaways—Rey and Chewbacca—back to the Resistance!

The Wish is the first ship to offer the Walt Disney Imagineering Lab where young cruisers can design their very own roller coaster ride and then virtually experience it!

Marvel fans can train as “recruits” to become part of the next generation of super heroes at Marvel Super Hero Academy. Kids can digitally choose a super hero suit to test out, along with their skills, in “Avengers: Mission Training,” a gesture-based technology game.

Young royals won’t be able to get enough of Fairytale Hall, comprised of three themed spaces including Rapunzel’s Art Studio, Belle’s Library and Anna and Elsa’s Sommerhaus. Your kids can have the “best day ever” making arts and crafts, enjoy some reading or acting out stories with the help of an enchanted painting or find some icy powers along with everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf.

Mickey and Minnie’s Captain’s Deck is such a fun and safe play area for the littlest cruisers. They just might even have the chance to meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in this nautical themed space.

AquaMouse

The AquaMouse is Disney’s first-ever attraction at sea. This water slide features scenes from Mickey Mouse animated shorts, music, lighting and special effects as you slide through 760 feet of twisting tubes above and around the pool deck. We found this activity fun for cruisers of all ages, as long as they met the height requirement of 42 inches. The line can be long, especially on the days you’re out at sea.

Senses Spa

Disney has completely elevated the Senses Spa experience onboard the Disney Wish! This Senses Spa has all of the guest favorites like the scented showers, saunas, and heated loungers, but also added this gorgeous outdoor space with large swings for two, loungers for two, hot tubs and more.

You can purchase a day pass, length of cruise pass or reserve a spa or beauty treatment. Another unique feature in this Senses Spa is the frigidarium. You can channel your inner Elsa and sit in this unique space. I promise it won’t take long to cool off!

Please note that Senses Spa is only available for adult guests ages 18 years and older.

Bonus: The Disney Wish also introduced Hook’s Barbery and unTangled Salon. At Hook’s Barbery, you’ll find men’s grooming services like hot shaves or beard trimmings as well as specialty whiskey tastings for guests age 21+ while at unTangled Salon, you can be pampered in a luxury salon experience offering manicures, pedicures and more.

Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge

The new Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge is a “must do” experience for any Star Wars fan! You can feel like you’ve really traveled to a galaxy far, far away inside this lounge that serves both alcoholic and non-alcoholic specialties. Be sure to keep an eye on the viewport behind the bar, you might get to experience a hyperspace jump to another planet.

Tip: Advance reservations are strongly recommended and available in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app as soon as you board the ship and connect to the DCL Wifi.

Beauty and the Beast Inspired Adults Only Dining Areas

In the aft of deck 12, you’ll find a few adults only spaces inspired by the classic (and my personal favorite) Disney film, “Beauty and the Beast,” including The Rose, Palo Steakhouse and Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallement.

The Rose is a beautiful lounge located outside of Palo Steakhouse and Enchante where you can enjoy a cocktail before or after your meal.

Palo Steakhouse has combined traditional Italian cuisine with a modern steakhouse for a special dining experience. In addition to fine dining at dinner, you can also enjoy an elegant brunch!

Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallement offers a fine dining experience for dinner in addition to two other high-quality dining experiences onboard, including a champagne brunch or 5-course dessert menu. Be on the lookout for Lumiere on your way to Enchante.

Hero Zone

Hero Zone is a brand new recreational space onboard the Disney Wish that transforms from a basketball court to the home of the Incredi-Games, an inflatable Incredibles themed activity course offering a variety of super hero themed obstacles. On the second level of Hero Zone, you’ll be able to enjoy table top games such as ping pong, air hockey, foosball and shuffleboard.

Be sure to check your Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to see when the Incredi-Games (and Jack-Jack’s Incredible Diaper Dash) will be offered on your sailing. When the space isn’t being used for these activities, you can use it for free play of basketball and even soccer.

Grand Hall

All four other Disney Cruise Line ships have a beautiful atrium lobby, but the Grand Hall is exclusive to the new Disney Wish. The Grand Hall was inspired by a fairytale castle and features an elegant blue and gold color palette. The Grand Hall is home to a life size statue of Cinderella, her glass slipper, stage and glittering chandelier. Every so often, the wishing star in the middle of the Grand Hall will come to life and invite guests to make their own wish!

Elegant Staterooms

The staterooms on the Disney Wish feature the signature Disney Cruise Line characteristics we’ve all come to know and love (like the split baths and storage space under the bed), but these staterooms really resonate with the ship’s motif of enchantment.

Each floor has a different theme that carries from the carpet to the stateroom numbers and the furnishings throughout the stateroom. You’ll find Frozen, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and The Princess & The Frog, among others.

Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party

If you have had the privilege of experiencing a Disney cruise before, then chances are that you were able to enjoy pirate night onboard, complete with fireworks at sea! The Disney Wish still offers Pirate Night, but hosted by Captain Redd, a descendant of the infamous red-head from the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, and her band of buccaneers where they perform popular radio hits in addition to their own rendition of “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me).” If you’re a Pirates of the Caribbean fan, don’t worry, Captain Jack Sparrow can’t miss this pirate party, either!

Are you ready to experience the new Disney Wish with your family?! We would love to help you plan your next Disney Cruise Line vacation at no additional cost to you!

Fall 2023 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries Available Beginning July 28, 2022

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Although it’s still summertime, it’s never too early to be dreaming of the holidays! Disney has just announced its fall 2023 Disney Cruise Line itineraries, which include special Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime voyages – and, for the first time ever – departures from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Fall 2023 Disney Cruise Line itineraries

Halloween on the High Seas cruises will return from mid-September through October 2023. Aboard these not-so-spooky sailings, guests will eat, drink and be scary with their favorite characters dressed in Halloween costumes, celebrate the season at Mickey’s Mouse-querade party, enjoy trick-or-treating at sea and more.

From early November through December, Disney Cruise Line ships will be extra merry and bright during Very Merrytime Cruises that celebrate the spirit of the holiday season. On these sailings, Disney magic will take on a whole new meaning with characters dressed in festive garb from head to (mistle)toe, a special tree-lighting ceremony, holiday décor, and special guests – Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Bookings open to the public on July 28, 2022. More details can be found on disneycruise.com.

New Adventures Aboard the Disney Dream

The Disney Dream will have new destinations on the horizon in the fall of 2023, which means even more fun for the whole family!

Following its inaugural season in Europe, the Disney Dream will set sail from New York City for the first time. Families will enjoy four-, five- and six-night sailings from the Big Apple to Bermuda, where they will explore the island’s renowned pink-sand beaches, world-class shopping, aquatic adventures and distinctive blend of British and Caribbean culture. Plus, a special four-night voyage on the Disney Dream will transport guests to the charming Canadian seaport city of Saint John.

Starting November 20, 2023, Disney Cruise Line will find a new South Florida home in Port Everglades, offering four- and five-night cruises aboard the Disney Dream to tropical locales in the western Caribbean and Bahamas. Families will enjoy stops in places like Grand Cayman, Cozumel and Nassau from Disney Cruise Line’s second year-round home port, along with visits to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island oasis.

Mexican Riviera Adventures from California

Beginning in mid-October 2023, the Disney Magic will find its home on the West Coast, setting sail from San Diego for voyages ranging from two to seven nights to Baja and the Mexican Riviera. Guests will experience the sparkling waters and beautiful landscapes of Santa Catalina Island, Calif., Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. An exclusive seven-night Mexican Riviera sailing will feature the breathtaking ports of Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas, which are perfect for recreational water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving.

Tropical Vacations from Port Canaveral, Florida

While guests can sail from places like New York, Fort Lauderdale and San Diego in the fall of 2023, the Disney Wish and Disney Fantasy will continue sailing from Port Canaveral to tropical destinations in the Bahamas and Caribbean.

The Disney Wish will sail three- and four-night cruises to the Bahamas, including visits to Nassau and Castaway Cay.

The Disney Fantasy will offer families even more time to experience Disney Cruise Line’s world-class dining, Broadway-style shows and spaces designed for the entire family during seven-night cruises to stunning destinations in the eastern and western Caribbean.

The only thing more magical than a Disney cruise with family is a Disney cruise with family for Halloween and the holidays! If this is a dream your family has, these fall 2023 Disney Cruise Line itineraries can make that dream a reality!

Receive a Disney Gift Card for Summer 2022 Vacations

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Would you like to receive up to $100 in FREE Disney Gift Cards to spend on your next Disney Vacation? When you book a new qualifying vacation or transfer an existing qualifying vacation, you will receive up to $100 Disney gift card as our “thank you” for allowing us to be part of your magical adventure. That’s right, we’re giving you a Disney gift card for summer 2022 vacations.

It is a simple process to get a FREE Disney Gift Card and you’ll also receive a lot of other free perks with our company.

Discount Watching (to make sure you get the best deal possible, even after you are booked)
MousePerks (weekly tips and tricks to help you get excited about and prepare for your vacation)
VIP Dining Services (recommendations based on your preferences)
Exclusive Facebook Group with tips and updates added daily
Autographed Picture of Mickey Mouse (mailed within 30 days of travel)
Autographed Letter from Mickey Mouse (mailed within 30 days of travel)
Disney Parks Growth Chart (mailed within 30 days of travel)
Personalized recommendations based on your plans and interests
Always available to assist you with questions, planning and more

FREE Disney Gift Card Amount:

The Disney Gift Card amount varies based on your package total.

Package Total – Disney Gift Card Amount:

$2,000 – $3,999 / Free $25 Disney Gift Card
$4,000 – $6,999 / Free $50 Disney Gift Card
$7,000 – $9,999 / Free $75 Disney Gift Card
$10,000 and up / Free $100 Disney Gift Card

Have you already booked your vacation, but still want to take advantage of our free services AND get a Disney gift card? You can use Disney’s transfer option! Disney will allow you to add me as your travel agent to your existing reservation so you can still benefit from my knowledge and expertise as we plan the rest of your visit with Mickey Mouse.

*To qualify for the transfer the package must be booked within the last 30 days and not paid in full. The package must be booked directly with Disney Travel (online at disneyworld.com or by phone). The gift card will be sent to you electronically at check-in.

BONUS: Referral Rewards Program

Are you not planning to travel at this time, but would still like to receive a Disney gift card? Take advantage of our referral rewards program! If you have family or friends who would like to take advantage of my services and book a vacation with me, you can earn your choice of a Disney gift card or credit towards your next vacation for every referral who books and travels with me!

Are you ready to book or transfer your Disney vacation? Call Siera today at (734) 771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com to get started!

Book by August 25, 2022 for travel through September 30, 2022. Offer valid for new bookings only.

Summer 2023 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries Return to Alaska, Europe and More

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Disney Cruise Line will offer a variety of enchanting vacations in summer 2023, including cruises to Europe, Alaska, the Bahamas and Caribbean.

For the first time ever, the Disney Dream will be heading east to the rich culture and history of Europe, calling on a wide variety of destinations among the most treasured in the world.

Are flip-flops and white sand beaches more your speed? Head to the sunshine state where three ships, including the all-new Disney Wish, will cruise to the dreamiest tropical destinations. If Alaska fires your adventurous spirit, set sail on the Disney Wonder for a surreal landscape of spectacular glaciers, soaring eagles, breaching whales and towns with a Gold Rush past.

In addition to visiting exciting destinations, each and every voyage in summer 2023 also includes a healthy dose of Disney magic! No matter where you are in the world, your family will also receive Disney Cruise Line’s signature service, along with Broadway-style shows, themed dining, character encounters and activities for everyone in the family.

Disney Dream Marks Inaugural Season in Europe

With sailings anywhere from four to eleven nights, the Disney Dream will sail from Barcelona and Rome to picturesque ports of call throughout the Mediterranean, including a first-ever seven-night sailing to the Greek Isles with stops in the ever-popular ports of Santorini and Mykonos.

Late summer/early fall departures of the Disney Dream from Southampton will feature cruises to a wealth of destinations including Spain, France, the British Isles, Norway and Iceland. New ports of call include the postcard-worthy La Rochelle, France and two new ports in Norway – Skjolden, home to a wealth of natural attractions, and Sandnes, a small city just outside the metropolis of Stavanger known for its outdoor activities.

Summer 2023 sailings to Alaska aboard Disney Wonder

The breathtaking natural beauty of Alaska will combine with the magic of Disney on five-, seven- and nine-night sailings on the Disney Wonder from Vancouver, Canada. Beginning in May, cruisers will be invited to discover exciting ports like Ketchikan and Skagway, with their prehistoric glaciers, gold mining relics and spectacular land- and sea-life. Three Alaskan itineraries call at Icy Strait Point, home to a coastal rainforest, wilderness tours and – for thrill-seekers – ziplining above the treetops.

Tropical Escapes to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Florida

Sun-splashed tropical isles throughout the Bahamas and Caribbean will await guests on three Disney Cruise Line ships from Florida in summer 2023.

For its first full summer of sailing, the Disney Wish will homeport in Port Canaveral near Orlando for a series of three- and four-night Bahamas cruises to Nassau and Disney’s private island oasis, Castaway Cay. The Disney Wish will feature exciting new additions including Disney’s first “Frozen”-themed theatrical dining experience and AquaMouse, a wild water adventure and first-ever Disney attraction at sea.

Port Canaveral will also be the departure point for the Disney Fantasy for sailings ranging in length from five to 10 nights. In addition to seven-night cruises to popular ports in the eastern and western Caribbean, guests will also be able to experience a five-night Bahamian sailing with back-to-back calls at Castaway Cay, a 10-night southern Caribbean itinerary to the islands of Aruba and Bonaire and an eight-night cruise featuring two days on the beautiful pink sand beaches of Bermuda.

The Disney Magic will make its summer home in Miami for an assortment of exciting destinations. Starting May 27, the Disney Magic will sail four-night Bahamas cruises and five-night western Caribbean voyages, followed by two seven-night sailings in July to the eastern and western Caribbean. Select summer voyages aboard the Disney Magic will include double days – for double the fun – at Castaway Cay.

Guests who are Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club and select other groups may take advantage of the following extended early booking windows:

Platinum Castaway Club Members, Golden Oak and Club 33 Members: Monday, May 2, 2022
Gold Castaway Club Members: Tuesday, May 3, 2022
Silver Castaway Club Members, Disney Vacation Club and Adventure Insiders: Thursday, May 5, 2022
Bookings open to all Guests: Monday, May 9, 2022

It’s time to start planning your family’s next great adventure. Tell us in the comments below which summer 2023 Disney Cruise Line itinerary you are most excited about!

Thanks Disney Parks Blog!

Top 5 Tips to Make the Most of Pirate Night on Disney Cruise Line

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Ahoy! One of my favorite experiences during a Disney cruise is Pirate Night! (almost) Every Disney Cruise Line sailing offers a pirate night featuring a deck party, show, late night buffet, fireworks at sea, Disney characters, and more. Your dinner menu will even be themed to celebrate. If you’re planning your first Disney cruise, you may not be sure what to expect or how to prepare for Pirate Night so we wanted to share these five tips with you.

Before You Go

Pack Your Pirate Night Attire: You’ll receive bandanas from your stateroom host or hostess, but so many guests will go all out in full pirate costumes. Kids of all ages always love some fun pirate accessories, too, like glow sticks, costumes, eye patches, and tattoos.

Book The Pirates League Early: The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique transforms into The Pirates League for Pirate Night! At The Pirates League, you can choose from beards, bandanas, swords, scars, earrings and eye patches to accessorize your costume. You can have a full pirate makeover! The First Mate package comes with a bandana, scars, fake teeth, eye patch and sword. The Empress package comes with a Disney Cruise Line exclusive dress, shimmering makeup, face gem, nail polish, earring, eye patch and sword. If you’re interested in booking The Pirates League experience for your children (or you), be sure to reserve the experience as soon as your booking window opens on the Disney Cruise Line website (which for first time cruisers is 75 days prior to sailing).

Once Onboard

Check Your Daily Navigator: Be sure to read your Daily Navigator on the Disney Cruise Line app (or grab a paper copy from guest services) so you don’t miss out on any of the pirate fun. There are pirate themed activities scheduled throughout the afternoon and evening that you won’t want to miss. You will have the opportunity to meet characters like Captain Hook, Captain Jack Sparrow, Tinker Bell, Pirate Mickey, and more so be sure to check their times and locations in your Daily Navigator.

Enjoy Your Pirate Themed Dinner: All of the main dining rooms serve a special “Pirates IN the Caribbean” themed menu for pirate night. If you’re planning an adults only dining experience like Palo or Remy, try to avoid Pirate Night, if possible. You can always request a dining rotation in advance to make sure you don’t miss your favorite restaurant, either. The servers even offer light up skull cups for a small charge during dinner!

End the Night with “Mickey’s Pirates IN the Caribbean” and “Buccaneer Blast”

Arrive Early for “Mickey’s Pirates IN the Caribbean” and “Buccaneer Blast”: There are two incredible shows up on the pool deck for Pirate Night. These “must see” shows are “Mickey’s Pirates IN the Caribbean,” a family-friendly interactive show featuring the famous Disney characters; “Hunt Fer Jack,” a thrilling live-action pirate showdown; and “Buccaneer Blast,” a spectacular display of fireworks at sea. If you have little ones, try to get an afternoon nap so they are up for a late night!

PS- Don’t forget to check out the late night buffet at Cabanas after the Buccaneer Blast! You will enjoy tacos, ham, turkey legs, baked potatoes, crepes, fresh fruit, and more! Your main dining room server should fill you in on all of the details, including serving times!

What are some of your favorite tips for Pirate Night on Disney Cruise Line? Be sure to share below!

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission. Thank you for supporting our small business!

Disney Wonder to Sail from San Diego Beginning Fall 2022 through Spring 2023

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Beginning in Fall 2022 and continuing through Spring 2023, the Disney Wonder will offer Disney Cruise Line guests 3-, 4-, 5- and 7-day cruises to Baja, Mexico and the Mexican Riviera from San Diego, California. In fact, it will be Disney Cruise Line’s longest season yet from this popular southern California homeport!

Home to 11 decks overflowing with restaurants, pools, recreation, imaginative kid’s clubs, adult-exclusive hotspots, special encounters with Disney characters, a spa and Broadway-caliber shows, the Disney Wonder is filled with adventure and plenty of Disney magic. And that’s not all! Your family can dine with Princess Tiana herself at Tiana’s Place, a restaurant inspired by “The Princess and the Frog.” While you might enjoy the live jazz music, this restaurant is always a guest favorite because of the southern cuisine. We highly recommend the beignets for dessert!

In case that wasn’t enough, your family can also choose itineraries that include limited-time Halloween and holiday activities. Imagine experiencing the magic of the seasons at sea, including Halloween on the High Seas voyages and – for the first time from San Diego – Very Merrytime holiday cruises! Or, if you’re looking to escape winter back home to soak up magical fun, sun and relaxation while taking in the natural splendor of sun-kissed seaside towns, you can opt for one of the early 2023 sailings.

San Diego, Disney Wonder’s homeport for this extended season, is a picture-perfect urban gem worthy of a stay before or after your cruise. Balboa Park and Old Town speak to the city’s Spanish colonial heritage, while the world-famous San Diego Zoo is home to more than 12,000 animals of more than 650 species.

From San Diego, the Disney Wonder will set sail to popular destinations, alive with color and culture. Ports include:

Mazatlan, the renowned “Pearl of the Pacific” and the perfect beachside escape with breathtaking natural wonders, thriving culture and colorful history.
Cabo San Lucas, a favored destination with dramatic rock formations and white-sand beaches.
Puerto Vallarta, a beautiful seaside resort wrapped around romantic Banderas Bay and bordered by the stunning Sierra Madre Mountains, where outdoor adventures abound.
Ensenada, known for its turquoise blue water and rugged mountainous terrain.
Catalina Island. Fabled in song and legend, Catalina abounds in wildlife, outdoor adventures and seaside charm. No visit is complete without stopping at the vast Wrigley Memorial Botanical Gardens or the gilded splendor of the Catalina Island Casino, a showplace that was beautifully restored to its 1930s Art Deco magnificence as a reminder of the island’s glorious past.

Unforgettable awaits! Cruises from California aboard the Disney Wonder will open for booking on Tuesday, February 22, 2022.

2023 Adventures by Disney River Cruise to Return to Rhine, Danube and Seine

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Have you been dreaming of your next bucket list European vacation? Well, I have some very exciting news for you! 2023 Adventures by Disney river cruise itineraries are now available!

Adventures by Disney just announced a return to three enchanting rivers in 2023: Rhine, Danube and Seine. With 27 action-packed departures that include family, adult-exclusive and holiday-themed sailings, you’ll experience firsthand the people, places and stories of iconic destinations. Plus, their team of specially trained Adventure Guides will provide a seamless and authentic experience that is marked by Disney’s signature service.

Family Vacations in the Heart of Europe

Sailing with AmaWaterways, a premier luxury river cruise line, Adventure by Disney’s eight-day, seven-night river cruises are filled with active, immersive experiences.

On Rhine River cruises, guests will explore storybook villages in Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Highlights include a toboggan ride through the black forest, high-adrenaline thrills at an indoor winter park and a voyage through the Upper Middle Rhine Valley offering up-close views of 30 majestic castles.

Danube River sailings visit eight unforgettable destinations in Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, where adventurers will roam medieval ruins, scale treetop rope bridges and marvel at the rolling hills made famous in “The Sound of Music.”

Seine River cruises will celebrate the magnificence of rural France with visits to picturesque provincial towns, the historic beaches of Normandy, Monet’s House and Gardens, the dramatic cliffs of Etretat, and Paris – the “City of Lights.”

Plus, Adventures by Disney guests can extend their Seine river cruise vacation with a three-day, two-night Paris Escape. From spectacular views of the “City of Lights” to a private walking culinary tour and an immersive visit to the Louvre Museum guided by a local expert, you won’t want to miss this pre-cruise package.

Specialty, Seasonal and Themed Departures

The 2023 Adventures by Disney river cruise lineup includes a variety of specialty sailings that feature themed offerings onboard and onshore, in addition to the excursions and entertainment already built into each itinerary.

Special adult-only vacations include themed Oktoberfest sailings on the Danube River and Food and Wine cruises on the Rhine River, each offering an extra serving of refinement and fun for culinary connoisseurs and “foodies” alike. Also on the Danube and Rhine, families can discover the spirit of the holiday season during festive Christmas Market cruises.

2023 Adventures by Disney river cruise bookings will open to the public on January 28, 2022.

If you’re interested in booking a vacation on 2023 Adventures by Disney river cruise sailings, you can take advantage of Adventure by Disney’s Early Booking Offer savings of $500 per person. You can also sail into summer with Adventures by Disney’s 2022 River Cruise Offer savings of $500 per person on select Rhine or Danube river cruises. Availability for these offers is limited.

To learn more about Adventures by Disney or to book a vacation, call Siera at (734) 771-1290 or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com.

Thanks Disney Parks Blog!

Let’s Celebrate National Plan for Vacation Day 2022

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Happy National Plan for Vacation Day!

National Plan for Vacation Day (NPVD), celebrated on the last Tuesday in January, is a day to encourage Americans to plan their vacation days for the whole year at the start of the year— and inspire them to use those days to travel to and within the United States. Since 2015, when the travel industry and partners began tracking American vacation usage, survey findings have continuously shown that vacation days are not being used, negatively affecting mental health, personal relationships and job performance. National Plan for Vacation Day helps highlight the importance of taking time off to travel—both for our personal health and wellbeing and for the overall economic prosperity of our nation. This year’s National Plan for Vacation Day is on January 25, 2022. Together, using #PlanForVacation, we are reminding Americans to commit—and take—their days off. How will you celebrate National Plan for Vacation Day 2022?

After two years of living through the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans are feeling burned out and ready for a change of scenery. However, COVID-19 related health and safety concerns and increased workloads have prevented many American workers from using their hard earned time off. Americans are STILL not using all of their vacation days.

American workers left an average of more than four days or 29% of their paid time off on the table last year, but the majority of Americans (64%) say they desperately need a vacation.

Planning Vacations Reduces Burnout

More than two-thirds (68%) of American workers feel at least moderately burned out and 13% are extremely burned out
More than half (53%) of remote workers are working MORE hours now than they were in the office and 61% now find it more difficult to unplug from work
COVID-19 related concerns followed by work related barriers such as heavy workloads and lack of coverage are top reasons preventing Americans from using their paid time off
Just one-quarter of Americans used ALL of their earned time off in 2021
Nearly eight in 10 (79%) believe vacations are important to their overall health and well-being
Avoiding burnout was the top-rated motivator to book a trip in the next six months—ranked even higher than travel discounts/deals

Travel Remains a Top Priority

More than nine in 10 (91%) Americans say it is important to use their paid time off to travel
Nearly eight in 10 (79%) believe vacations are important to their overall health and well-being
Nearly six in 10 (59%) agree that travel is more important than ever and 61% plan to make travel a top budget priority in 2022

Vacation Planning WORKS!

The three-quarters of Americans who planned out their paid time off for the year were more likely to use their paid time off to travel in 2021
53% of planners anticipate traveling more in 2022 versus 27% of non-planners
More than nine in ten (91%) Americans say it is important to use their paid time off to travel
Close to eight in ten (79%) of Americans believe vacations are important to their overall health and well-being

The Impact of Planning

Americans who plan out their time off take more time off to travel—but one-quarter (24%) of American households don’t do this simple step. As a result, they lose or have to forfeit these days
Planners prioritize traveling with their paid time off, a trend that is expected to continue to rise in 2022 where 53% of planners anticipate traveling more than previous years versus 27% of non-planners
And planners actually do travel more than non-planners. More than half (56%) of Americans who typically planned their time off took an overnight vacation in 2021 compared to 33% of non-planners
Anticipating and planning travel makes Americans happy. Close to three-quarters (74%) of planners reported being extremely or very happy anticipating and planning vacations in the next year versus just four in 10 of non-planners
Avoiding burnout is an even greater motivator to book a trip for non-planners than planners—62% of non-planners rated avoiding burnout as a top motivator compared to 53% of planners

Planning: A Key to Happiness

Those who plan for vacations are happier in general—with everything from their personal relationships to their work/life balance, health and well-being and even their job.

Extremely or Very Happy	Planners	Non-Planners
On Vacation	86%	67%
Personal Relationships with Family and Friends	80%	58%
Work/Life Balance	72%	54%
Job Flexibility	72%	53%
Anticipating and Planning Vacations	74%	40%
Physical Health and Well-Being	72%	46%
Company Where You Work	68%	53%
Job	68%	50%

Source: Destination Analysts, 2021 & U.S. Travel Association

Ready to start planning your next vacation? Here are a few ideas to help get you started…

Walt Disney World Resort

It’s always a magical time to plan a visit to the most magical place on earth, but 2022 is extra special with the 50th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort. We recently shared 22 reasons why you should plan to visit Disney World in 2022! Plus, you may be able to take advantage of a special offer for additional savings when you travel March 6- July 7, 2022.

Universal Orlando Resort

There’s never been a better time to start planning your epic trip to Universal Orlando Resort. Universal Orlando Resort features incredible theme park adventures that allow you to let go and live in the moment with those you care about most. There’s plenty to explore at Universal Orlando Resort – home to three theme parks featuring more than 60 world-class attractions combined, eight magnificently-themed resort hotels, destination-wide entertainment and Universal CityWalk.

We have customizable vacation package options perfect for any visitor. Learn more about Universal Orlando Resort’s new offer for 2 days free or the Exclusive Wizarding World of Harry Potter vacation package.

Perfect Day at CocoCay with Royal Caribbean

This isn’t vacation days spent. This is bragging rights earned. You can conquer the tallest waterslide in North America and snap a shot from 450 feet up in a helium balloon. Grab a drink at the swim-up bar and soak up the scene in the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas. Or get a taste of Bora Bora with their own floating cabana. This is Perfect Day at CocoCay — only on Royal Caribbean^®

You can learn more about why your family will love a Royal Caribbean cruise vacation or 10 reasons to spend a perfect day at CocoCay.

All Inclusive Resorts

Ready to just unplug and recharge? Don’t want to have to worry about cooking or anything while you’re on vacation? Maybe an all inclusive getaway is the best fit for you. There are resorts available for for couples and families. You can find some of our favorite all inclusive resorts for families here.

Special thanks to the U.S. Travel Association for sharing these statistics with us!

15 Things to Bring on a Disney Cruise Line Vacation

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We absolutely love Disney cruises! They are such a perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, and Disney magic! We’ve taken four Disney cruises just within the last 18 months and have found that there are some items that can be really helpful to have with you to make your experience even more enjoyable! So, today, we wanted to share with you 15 things to bring on a Disney cruise!

Things to Bring on a Disney Cruise for Onboard Fun

Pirate Night Attire: One of my favorite parts of a Disney cruise is Pirate Night! (almost) Every Disney Cruise Line sailing offers a pirate night with a deck party, late night buffet, and fireworks at sea. Your dinner menu will even be themed to celebrate. You’ll receive bandanas from your stateroom host or hostess, but our kids always love glow sticks, costumes, eye patches, and tattoos.

Autograph Book or Photo Mat: You will have the opportunity to meet a number of Disney characters throughout your sailing! Many guests ask the characters to sign an autograph book so they can keep the signatures all together in one place. We also love these photo mats so that we can display our favorite vacation memory inside when we return home.

Fish Extender Holder: A popular experience for many Disney Cruise Line guests is the fish extender gift exchange. This gift exchange is generally organized through your cruise’s Facebook group prior to sailing. It is a fun way to exchange gifts with fellow cruisers. Some guests will also leave “pixie dust” gifts for fellow cruises without any type of organized exchange. To participate, you’ll need a fish extender holder for your gifts to hang outside of your stateroom.

Candy or Snacks for Movies & Shows: One of the few things not included in your cruise fare is the popcorn and candy available outside of the theaters. We can’t help you resist the fresh buttered popcorn smell, but you can bring prepackaged candy and snacks to enjoy during the evening Broadway style shows and movies onboard.

Magnets: Disney Cruise staterooms doors are magnetic so you can decorate your door. Show off your Disney side with magnets that can be customized with your family name, ship, sail date, and more! We also love this port hole Mickey that fits around your stateroom door’s port hole.

Things to Bring on a Disney Cruise to Use In Your Stateroom

Laundry Bag: Space is limited in a cruise stateroom so it can be nice to have a dedicated location for dirty clothes. Although your suitcases fit under your bed, you probably won’t want to have to pull them out to put dirty clothes away. We recommend packing a laundry bag or pop up hamper to save space and keep all of your dirty clothes easily together in one place.

Shoe Rack: As you may know, space is often at a premium in cruise staterooms. Although Disney does offer some of the largest staterooms, you can maximize your space with a shoe rack. It can be a great way to store toiletries in the bathroom or even drink cups and kids toys in the stateroom.

Clothes Pins: Clothes pins can be really useful to have in your stateroom with wet swim suits. There is a clothes line that can be hung across your bath tub. You can fit more on the line and not have to worry about anything falling off when you can secure them with clothes pins.

Night Light: If you’re in an inside stateroom, it can be pretty dark in there at night. If you are traveling with little ones or just want to be able to easily find your way around the room at night, we recommend packing a night light.

Dry Erase Board: Many guests hang a dry erase board on their (magnetic) stateroom door. This way, your fellow cruisers can leave messages or artwork. You never know who might leave you a message. It’s also especially helpful if you are traveling with any family and friends.

Magnetic Hooks: You may also find a magnetic hook helpful for hanging your lanyard inside your stateroom. These can also be used for jackets, wet swim suits, and more.

Things to Bring on a Disney Cruise to Make Travel Easier

Tumblers/Cups/Water Bottles: Soft drinks are included with your cruise fare. They are readily available up on the pool deck during your Disney cruise. Although Disney provides small paper cups, we enjoy bringing something bigger and more portable like these water bottles. We especially love our stainless steel Mickey Tervis for both hot and cold beverages!

Sea Band or Non-Drowsy Dramamine: If you are concerned about motion sickness, we highly recommend packing sea bands and/or non-drowsy dramamine. It’s always better to be prepared. We’ve found rougher seas going in and out of port so you may want something to help relieve discomfort before the gift shops have opened. You can even order some dramamine for kids.

Reusable Straws: In an effort to be more environmentally responsible, Disney has eliminated plastic straws on board. Although you can request paper straws, we find that they are difficult for small children. They don’t hold up very well so we prefer to bring reusable straws like these metal straws or these silicone straws. The silicone straws even come with a cleaning brush and portable case.

Lanyards: You will receive a plastic Key to the World card for your room key and all purchases onboard. We find it convenient to wear a lanyard to easily access (and remember) our Key to the World card. We recommend one of these fun Mickey and friends lanyards.

What items have you found most useful to bring on a Disney cruise?

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