Category Archives: Disney Cruise Line

Exciting New Star Wars Day at Sea Experiences Planned for 2018

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Brand new experiences featuring the Dark Side, the Resistance, the droids and more are coming to the Disney Fantasy when Star Wars Day at Sea returns on 15 special sailings this January through April. Check out some of the new out-of-this-galaxy Star Wars Day at Sea experiences that are setting sail in 2018:

The Dark Side

  • To kick off Star Wars Day at Sea celebrations, in a one-time experience the night before the event, Darth Vader and Stormtroopers will march into the ship’s atrium for an Imperial takeover.
  • Kylo Ren will appear in “Jedi Training Academy,” where young Jedi-in-training summon their courage and the Force to face off against Darth Vader and Kylo Ren.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Resistance

  • Rey will take the stage in the “Summon the Force” nighttime deck show that celebrates great moments from across the Star Wars galaxy including iconic characters and new favorites, complete with an epic fireworks finale accompanied by John Williams’ iconic music.
  • In “Porgs Onboard! Scavenger Hunt,” Chewbacca needs your help to track the Porgs that have been wreaking havoc throughout the ship. You’ll find and decode secret messages to solve a ship-wide quest and be greeted by everyone’s favorite Wookiee at the end of your adventure.
  • In the days leading up to the epic celebration, check out all of the Star Wars feature films in the Buena Vista Theatre, culminating in a showing of the newest film, “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.”

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Fun for the whole family

  • New in 2018, you are guaranteed a time to meet and take photographs with C-3PO and R2-D2, Chewbacca and Darth Vader. Before you even step onboard, you have the chance to reserve these character encounters online under the My Disney Cruise section of disneycruise.com.
  • Guests can step into the saga and pose with a life-size replica of Han Solo frozen in Carbonite, as well as other cool Star Wars-themed backdrops.
  • In Star Wars Drawing Academy, guests can learn to draw some of their favorite Star Warscharacters and a new character from “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.” Is it a Porg? You’ll just have to wait and see!
  • Star Wars-themed interactive games, trivia and activities for the whole family will be hosted by your Disney cruise staff on the pool deck and in the D Lounge.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

These are the droids you’re looking for

  • C-3PO will make an appearance in Star Wars: Command Post in Disney’s Oceaneer Club. During a special activity, children train to be members of the Resistance and fend off the First Order. C-3PO pays a visit to check on their training and further human-cyborg relations.
  • Droid Racing is a fast-paced activity that the whole family will enjoy where guests can race BB-Unit droids around a course in the ship’s atrium.
  • In a hands-on activity for families, everyone tests their skills to become master droid builders and create an intergalactic droid.

All of these cool new experiences are included in a Star Wars Day at Sea cruise, and just some of the ways you can celebrate the legendary adventures and iconic characters from the Star Warsgalaxy.

It’s not too late for your family to join in on the exciting experiences during Star Wars Day at Sea during your family’s Caribbean cruise vacation! Contact us today for details!

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog)

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote.

Five Ways to Feel the Force at the Star Wars Command Post on Disney Fantasy

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

With the recent arrival of Star Wars Command Post aboard the Disney Fantasy, the Force is growing strong on the high seas! Young Padawans have been busy training with members of the Resistance and heroes of the Star Wars saga to embark on missions against the First Order throughout this new youth space in Disney’s Oceaneer Club.

Check out some of the activities that take kids from Padawans to Jedi in no time at Star Wars Command Post:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

5. Kids can take a seat and set course for some pretty far out places in the galaxy via Starfighter Training Simulators. From the icy planet of Hoth to the vast forests of Endor, epic missions have them traversing the galaxy in less than 12 parsecs!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

4. When training to become one with the Force, children are visited by BB-8 himself, guiding them to success in a vital mission against the First Order. Keep an eye out, because you never know where this skittish but loyal astromech droid will show up!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. While exploring this hidden Resistance base, young ones can virtually join the cause and engage in games via tablets showing them what it takes to become a part of the Resistance. Remember, the location of this Command Post MUST be kept a secret!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

2. Children can step up to the one-of-a-kind “holotable” and choose their larger-than-life vehicles or droid companions for their missions. Warning, if you don’t choose your droid, they might just choose you!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. Once their training is complete, Jedi in-the-making are put to the test and able to channel their new-found Force in an ambitious battle against First Order Stormtroopers. Devotion to the Resistance and strength in the Force are a must in order to move objects and play Jedi mind tricks on unsuspecting foes.

The out-of-this-world adventures don’t stop here. With seven-night cruises aboard the Disney Fantasy, there’s enough time for lots more epic fun.

All this and much more are also available on special Star Wars Day at Sea sailings aboard the Disney Fantasy in early 2018. Throughout the day-long celebration, your family will enjoy encounters with the galaxy’s most formidable and heroic characters, a deck party spectacular with fireworks and other Star Wars-themed family fun. So, grab your droid and prepare to visit a galaxy far, far away in a whole new way!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Six Special Holiday Experiences Available During Very MerryTime Cruises

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The entire Disney Cruise Line fleet has now transformed into a glistening winter wonderland for the Very Merrytime Cruises. There’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a special atrium celebration, fun-filled tropical parties on deck, carolers throughout the ship and Disney friends dressed in their holiday best.

Check out some of the festive fun for you and your family on a Disney Cruise this holiday with these six special experiences during the Very MerryTime Cruises:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. Deck the Deck with Mickey and Friends
Looking for a tropical holiday celebration? You and your little ones can join Mickey, Minnie and their pals for limbo, hula hooping and dancing around the pool. My personal favorite has to be the “Yuletide Slide!”

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

2. Celebrate the Season in a Winter Wonderland
When Santa and Mrs. Claus come to the ships, the atrium lobby is filled with classic holiday tunes, your favorite Disney characters and a flurry of “Frozen” fun with Anna and Elsa.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. Savor Festive Feasts
Prepare to indulge a plethora of tasty holiday treats and drinks along with a bountiful feast on Thanksgiving Day and a special dinner on Christmas Day. There are also speciality teas and coffees available throughout the entire season including my favorites, Egg Nog Mocha and Caramel Pecan Chai!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

4. Carol Through the Decks
Listen up for the spirit of the holidays ringing throughout the ship as Dickens-inspired carolers sing holiday classics and invite children to join them in a special farewell show.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

5. Build Your Own Gingerbread House
From decorating stockings to making holiday cards, there are a ton of activities and crafts for your family. If that’s not enough gingerbread for you, each of our ships have a life-sized, edible gingerbread house right outside of the atriums.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

6. Soak Up the Season
When you visit Castaway Cay, the celebration continues with holiday island music,a special Christmas tree, Disney characters in their tropical holiday attire and even “snow” flurries!

Still looking for that perfect holiday gift? Give the gift of a Disney Cruise to your loved ones. From nautical to nice, the holiday cheer is finally here! Book your Very MerryTime Cruise today for 2017 or 2018!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Top Four Experiences During 2018 Star Wars Day at Sea with Disney Cruise Line

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

There’s no better way to celebrate your family’s love for Star Wars than with one epic day of galactic experiences aboard a weeklong Disney cruise to the Caribbean. Starting this January, 2018 Star Wars Day at Sea returns to the Disney Fantasy on 15 special sailings through April.

2018 Star Wars Day at Sea will no doubt be a memorable experience for your entire family.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. Be ready to meet your favorite Star Wars characters.
Star Wars Day at Sea features an assembly of more than a dozen light and dark side characters. New for 2018 Star Wars Day at Sea, before you even step on the ship you can pre-schedule galactic encounters with C-3PO and R2-D2, Chewbacca and Darth Vader. Plus, you never know who you may bump into roaming around the ship, so always have your camera ready!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

2. Let your kids check out Star Wars: Command Post while you get your own Star Wars fix.
In the new Star Wars: Command Post in Disney’s Oceaneer Club, there are Star Wars themed activities to keep your kids entertained for hours. So take some time for yourself and show off your knowledge at Star Wars Trivia, or brush up on the basics at Star Wars 101. Then join a lively presentation from one of the creative talents who has helped bring the Star Wars universe to life.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. Enjoy the incredible entertainment as a family. 
One of the day’s signature family events is our costume celebration in the atrium. But of course you’re welcome to wear your best v attire all day long to extend the cosplay fun! Also as a family you can learn to draw some of your favorite characters at Star Wars Drawing Academy and join the ship-wide Star Wars Scavenger Hunt to find and decode secret messages and solve a mystery. Another must-do family activity is “Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple,” where you can watch your young Padawans summon the courage and Force to face off against the dark side.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

4. Cap off the day with an action-packed deck party and amazing fireworks show. 
There’s no better way to wrap up the day than with fireworks at sea, especially when the incredible display is timed to John William’s classic Star Wars score. But first, you’ll be treated to a spectacular deck show, “Summon The Force,” which celebrates all of the great moments from across the Star Wars universe. It’s a celebration your family will not soon forget!

2018 Star Wars Day at Sea sounds like a pretty awesome day, don’t you agree? It’s not too late for your family experience the 2018 Star Wars Day at Sea during your family’s Caribbean cruise vacation! Contact us today to help!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Top Five Marvel Day at Sea Experiences on Disney Cruise Line

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Top Five Marvel Day at Sea Experiences on Disney Cruise Line

The time has arrived when the mightiest Marvel Super Heroes and menacing foes assemble on the Disney Magic to make the action-packed Marvel Day at Sea a reality! Now, enjoy your first official look at some of the exciting day-long entertainment and adventures that will transport you to a new realm of heroic possibilities with these Marvel Day at Sea experiences…

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

“Marvel Heroes Unite”
For the first time ever, Marvel Super Heroes and Villains face off in an incredible battle at sea! The super-charged nighttime show fills the upper decks with special effects, stunts and pyrotechnics and music. The epic finale culminates in the largest collection of Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains ever assembled on a cruise ship.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

“Doctor Strange: Journey into the Mystic Arts”
In a brand-new interactive show, sorcerer supreme Doctor Strange invites guests to join him on a journey of discovery into the world of the Mystic Arts.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Black Panther’s Debut
Making his very first appearance as part of a Disney vacation experience, Black Panther shares his secrets of super reflexes and extraordinary intellect during up-close encounters.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Heroic Encounters
Around the ship, you may happen upon your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, who is always quick with a word of encouragement and helping guests hone their Spider-senses. Other Marvel Super Heroes you may encounter onboard include Captain America, Iron Man, Thor and Black Widow, to name just a few.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

“Mickey and Friends Super Hero Celebration”
Even Disney characters are getting in on the action! Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Pluto, Chip and Dale dress up to honor their favorite Marvel Super Heroes.

Marvel Day at Sea is on select 7- and 8-night Disney Cruise Line sailings from New York this fall, and returns on select 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami in early 2018.

It’s not too late to book your Disney Cruise and enjoy all of these exciting Marvel Day at Sea experiences!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

New Restaurant and More Planned for 2018 Disney Magic Refurbishment

The Disney Magic embodies the Disney Cruise Line tradition of blending the elegant grace of early 20th century transatlantic ocean liners with contemporary design to create a stylish and spectacular cruise ship. On the Disney Magic, guests can experience new adventures, explore re-imagined areas and discover exciting additions for the whole family. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

Disney recently shared some details on the exciting enhancements debuting after the 2018 Disney Magic refurbishment is complete early next year. The new spaces and new experiences currently under development will include a Tangled-themed family restaurant, a fresh new space for teens and a sophisticated café for adults.

An Enchanting Dining Experience for Families

At Rapunzel’s Royal Table, your family will delight in an all-new dining experience inspired by the beloved story of Disney’s “Tangled.” The first table service restaurant themed to “Tangled” that features characters and live entertainment will transport Disney Magic guests to the kingdom of Corona for an evening of music and interactive fun with Rapunzel and the mischievous Snuggly Duckling Thugs.

Upon entering the restaurant, you’ll step inside a regal ballroom in the royal castle, lit by glowing wish lanterns and adorned with colorful drawings that reflect Rapunzel’s artistic talents. Here, the King and Queen of Corona invite you to take part in a festive celebration of Rapunzel’s birthday and the anniversary of her return to the kingdom.

Throughout dinner, you’ll be treated to live entertainment, including spirited singing and dancing, a merry band of musicians, the mischievous Snuggly Duckling Thugs and of course, Princess Rapunzel herself.

The family fun is complete with themed menus, special activities and a lively parade to cap off the evening in Corona. The charm and enchantment of “Tangled” in Rapunzel’s Royal Table is the perfect pairing to “Tangled: The Musical” – the spellbinding original production that delights guests during each Disney Magic sailing.

Redesigned Retreat Just for Teens

Vibe, the space on the ship reserved for teens ages 14-17, is being transformed into a trendy urban loft environment. At Vibe, teens can enjoy a new coffee and smoothie bar, play video and virtual reality games, and check out other cool activities like a DJ spin-off and movie making.

Refined Escape Exclusively for Adults

If it’s a grownup retreat you’re seeking, Cove Café is being redesigned in a sophisticated tropical style. It’s the perfect place to sip a specialty coffee or tea throughout the day, or indulge in wine or a cocktail and light bites during the evening hours.

Elsewhere around the Disney Magic, other enhancement highlights include the addition of Club Disney Junior in Disney’s Oceaneer Club for children and a redesigned Rainforest Room with steam and hydrotherapy in Senses Spa for adults.

The new enhancements debut on Disney Magic starting March 9, 2018, on sailings from Miami, Fla.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Early 2019 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries Include Tropical Ports Coast to Coast

In early 2019, Disney Cruise Line sets sail from California, Florida and Puerto Rico, offering guests the opportunity to visit exciting ports of call in the Mexican Riviera, Caribbean and Bahamas. (Todd Anderson, photographer)

Early 2019 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries Include Tropical Ports Coast to Coast

Disney has just announced where their ships are sailing for early 2019 Disney Cruise Line itineraries … to tropical ports of call from coast to coast! Disney Cruise Line will be returning to favorite destinations on a variety of itineraries, including cruises from California, Florida and Puerto Rico.

Highlights include an expanded two-month season from San Diego to the sun-drenched Baja and Mexican Riviera, a host of options to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Florida ports, and cruises to the Southern Caribbean from San Juan, Puerto Rico. All cruises departing Florida feature a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests.

Here are the details …

As part of Disney Cruise Line early 2019 itineraries, the Disney Wonder sails to Cabo San Lucas, a Baja Mexico a destination favored for its arid climate and sunny weather, dotted with dramatic rock formations and bordered by white-sand beaches. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

San Diego to Baja and Mexican Riviera 
The Disney Wonder returns to San Diego for an extended season from March to May 2019, with a variety of cruises to Mexico where you can enjoy vibrant culture, stunning beaches, exciting water activities, cliff diving and ziplining through the jungle.

Most sailings to Mexico’s Baja peninsula call on the charming coastal city of Ensenada, known as the “Cinderella of the Pacific” with its turquoise blue water and rugged mountainous terrain. Two-night cruises to Ensenada boast Friday departures from San Diego, giving you the ultimate weekend getaway to experience world-class entertainment aboard the Disney Wonder.

Four- and five-night Baja options include a visit to Cabo San Lucas, a destination favored for arid climate and sunny weather, dotted with dramatic rock formations and bordered by white-sand beaches.

Seven-night sailings to the Mexican Riviera call on Cabo San Lucas and feature the snorkeling and scuba diving hot spots of Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán. These week-long cruises offer you the chance to make magical memories as a family while soaking up the history and Old World charm of Mexico’s Pacific Coast and taking in the beauty of stunning beaches and the nearby Sierra Madre Mountains.

From San Juan, Puerto Rico in early 2019, the Disney Wonder sets sail on three special cruises to the Southern Caribbean, visiting tropical destinations renowned for beautiful sun-kissed beaches and warm azure waters. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Southern Caribbean
In January, three special Disney Wonder cruises from San Juan sail to the Southern Caribbean, visiting tropical destinations renowned for beautiful sun-kissed beaches and warm azure waters. On the six- and seven-night sailings, you can dive into charming island cultures, sunbathe on golden beaches and revel in local marketplaces.

The Disney Wonder arrives to San Juan after a five-night journey departing Jan. 9 from Galveston, Texas, with a stop in Falmouth, Jamaica.

On Feb. 3, a four-night cruise aboard the Disney Wonder takes you from San Juan to Port Canaveral, Florida, just an hour away from Walt Disney World Resort—the perfect stop for a fairytale land and sea adventure.

All early 2019 Disney Cruise Line sailings from Port Canaveral and Miami to the Bahamas and Caribbean include a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise. In a setting of crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white-sand beaches and lush landscapes, the island offers activities for every member of the family. (David Roark, photographer)

Port Canaveral to Bahamas and Eastern and Western Caribbean
With three Disney ships in port and cruise lengths spanning three, four and seven nights, vacationers looking for a getaway in early 2019 have a full menu of options from Port Canaveral, near Orlando, Florida. Every sailing from Port Canaveral includes a day at Castaway Cay.

The Disney Fantasy continues to sail seven-night Caribbean voyages, with Eastern Caribbean itineraries visiting the Virgin Islands of Tortola and St. Thomas, and Western Caribbean cruises calling on Cozumel, MexicoGrand Cayman and Falmouth.

The Disney Dream embarks on three- and four-night Bahamian cruises to Nassau and Castaway Cay, and the Disney Wonder will alternate similar three- and four-night itineraries throughout February.

In early 2019, the Disney Magic sails from Miami with four- and five-night voyages to the Bahamas, plus five-night Western Caribbean cruises. The magical shores of Castaway Cay await guests aboard every one of these Disney Magic sailings. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

Miami to Bahamas and Western Caribbean
To kick off 2019, the Disney Magic continues sailing from Miami with four- and five-night voyages to the Bahamas, plus five-night Western Caribbean cruises.

The magical shores of Castaway Cay await guests aboard every one of these Disney Magic sailings. Other ports of call on the Bahamian voyages include Nassau and Key West, Florida, while a stop in Grand Cayman or Cozumel headlines the Western Caribbean itineraries.

Bookings open to the public on Nov. 2, 2017. Check out the Ports and Itineraries for 2019 page of disneycruise.com for more details, and happy sailing!

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog!)

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Top Five Reasons Kids Love Marvel Super Hero Academy on the Disney Fantasy

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

I am beyond excited to share even more details about the all-new Marvel Super Hero Academy aboard the Disney Fantasy. Throughout this one-of-a-kind youth space, children can learn the ways of the mystic arts with Doctor Strange and even discover what it takes to become a true hero with Thor.

Here are some of the fun feats that heroes-in-the-making are currently taking on in this epic academy:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

5. While exploring the academy, young trainees should listen out for the thunderous entrance of the hero of Asgard, Thor. He just might have an unexpected visit from his brother Loki through a magical portal as well …

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

4. The Mighty Thor teaches kids the path to becoming worthy through strength, knowledge and compassion. With the Mjölnir in hand, Thor leads the future heroes to become worthy enough to wield their own hammers.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. Curious children can examine some truly powerful objects. Doctor Strange’s sling rings, Black Panther’s mask and the mysterious Wakandan vibranium that made Captain America’s shield are all on display as inspiration for future heroes.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

2. Future sorcerers can take the journey into the mystic arts to learn to open their minds and find their inner powers from Doctor Strange himself. (Remember “Shamballa,” you’ll thank me later!)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. After learning how to harness energy from Doctor Strange, kids can create portals using their newly acquired skills and travel anywhere throughout the Multiverse. (Be sure to keep an eye out for Dormammu …)

Joining Marvel Super Heroes in these epic missions are just the beginning of the adventures to be had throughout the new youth spaces in Disney’s Oceaneer Club. Seven-night itineraries aboard the Disney Fantasy allow for tons of fun, so stay tuned for even more details on what out-of-this-world adventures have hit the high seas.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Disney Cruise Line Decked with Holiday Cheer for Very MerryTime Cruises 2017

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

This holiday season, give a gift that’s both nautical and nice: a cruise on the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream or Disney Fantasy, all decked out with holiday cheer. Starting early November, Disney Cruise Line adds sparkle to each ship during Very Merrytime Cruises 2017, with traditional “turkey day” fanfare, Christmas feasts, “snow flurries” and New Year’s Eve galas. But the best part might just be relaxing on deck instead of shoveling snow.

During these voyages through the new year, special stem-to-stern holiday events include:

  • “Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic” in the atrium lobby on the first night of the cruise, where Disney characters lead holiday carols and the lighting of the glittering, three-deck-tall tree.
  • “Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball” in the atrium lobby, where Disney cruisers welcome the guests of honor, Santa and Mrs. Claus, with a grand celebration featuring Broadway-style entertainment, favorite Disney characters and classic holiday tunes. This evening of enchantment is made complete when a special pair of royal sisters joins the party and causes a flurry of “frozen” fun as a magical snowfall overtakes the atrium.
  • Dickens-inspired carolers carrying the spirit of the holidays throughout the ship while singing holiday classics, sometimes with the help of favorite Disney friends. At the end of the cruise, children will have the opportunity to join the carolers onstage for a special farewell show.
  • Family holiday activities including building gingerbread houses and meeting Santa Claus.
  • Youth holiday crafts such as decorating stockings and gingerbread men cookies, making holiday cards and creating holiday animation cells.
  • “Deck the Deck Holiday Party,” a tropical celebration with Disney friends leading games such as hula hooping and limbo under oversized candy canes, along with dances for the whole family like the “Yuletide Slide” and a conga line around the pool.
  • A special holiday edition of the cheerful farewell celebration on the final night of the cruise, with beloved Disney characters and the ship’s crew in an engaging musical finale led by Mickey Mouse.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

On Thanksgiving Day, guests will enjoy a bountiful Thanksgiving Day feast and visits from Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed in traditional Thanksgiving attire. Also during the special Thanksgiving voyages, NFL football games will be broadcast live on the ships’ outdoor, jumbo LED screens – Funnel Vision – located near the family pool.

Christmas morning at the atrium lobby tree Santa Claus and his helpers will have a surprise for all the kids, and guests will delight in a special musical performance from the children. A traditional Christmas Dinner will be served that night in the dining rooms.

Christmas services will be held on Christmas Day with a midnight mass on Christmas Eve. Hanukkah services will be held each day, Dec. 12 to Dec. 20.

Special holiday décor adorns each ship from bow to stern, anchored by a three-deck-tall tree in the atrium lobby. The 20’ tall tree is uniquely decorated to complement the existing colors and overall theme of the lobby, including a custom star that is as unique as the ship. All together, the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Dream have 402 garlands totaling 3,768’, 126 wreaths ranging from 24” to 60” and 130 trees ranging from 24” to 8’.

When the ships stop at Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, during the holidays, the celebration continues with “snow flurries,” a decked-out Christmas tree, Disney character meet-and-greets and holiday island music.

For an extra sprinkle of holiday joy, special amenities are available for stateroom delivery. Purchased in advance of sailing, these include holiday-themed gift packages and treat baskets and even mini Christmas trees decorated with ornaments, red berries, mini carnations and a bow topper. Plus, during the holiday cruises, the Disney Cruise Line holiday merchandise collection and ever-popular Disney Cruise Line ornaments will be available in the gift shops.

To ring in 2018, voyages during the holiday include a special New Year’s Eve party, complete with music, sparkling wine in commemorative flutes and a midnight countdown.

To celebrate the holidays, the Disney Magic sails four-, five-, seven- and eight-night Bahamian cruises, five- night Eastern Caribbean cruises, and a five-night Western Caribbean cruise departing Nov. 11 to Dec. 24; the Disney Wonder sails seven-night Western Caribbean cruises, and seven-night Bahamian cruises departing from Nov. 10 to Dec. 22; the Disney Dream sails three- and four-night Bahamian cruises departing from Nov. 10 to Dec. 22; and the Disney Fantasy sails seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises departing from Nov. 11 to Dec. 23.

It’s not too late to book your Disney Cruise and enjoy Very MerryTime Cruises 2017!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Five Experiences During Marvel Day at Sea on Disney Cruise Line

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

We are less than a month away from the first Marvel Day at Sea cruise, which premiere on select voyages from New York City this fall. Disney has recently revealed more details about the fun that is in store for families during this epic day-long event aboard the Disney Magic.

Marvel Day at Sea hosts an awesome mix of immersive entertainment that will empower you to unlock your hidden superhuman abilities. Here are just some of the highlights of experiences during Marvel Day at Sea that await your family on this special day of your cruise vacation…

Family costume celebration
You’re invited to bring your most heroic (or villainous) costumes on the cruise. During what’s sure to be an inspiring costume celebration in the ship’s atrium, families are encouraged to celebrate together in Marvel-themed groups. Are you ready to assemble your Avengers?

Super Hero training for kids
For young heroes-in-training, Marvel-themed games, activities and arts and crafts will be offered throughout the day in Marvel’s Avengers Academy. Super Heroes like Spider-Man, Black Widow, Thor and Hawkeye will teach kids the true qualities of being a hero. Kids will enjoy interactive experiences like special secret agent training, learn the path to becoming worthy with Thor, and hone their reflexes, speed and intellect with Spider-Man.

Film screenings
There will be exclusive at-sea screenings of fan-favorite films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe including the newest theatrical releases, as well as viewings of the Disney XD shows: Marvel’s Avengers Assemble, Marvel’s Spider-Man and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. The newest Marvel cinematic feature, Thor: Ragnarok, debuts onboard November 3, the same day as in theaters on land.

Marvel trivia 
Put your knowledge to the test! Kids and families summon their Marvel knowledge and enjoy friendly competition during trivia games, covering courageous heroes and fun facts from the Marvel Universe. New to Marvel or want to brush up on your heroic facts? Join us for a fun session that covers the basics of the Marvel Universe so you can stay up-to-speed during the entire epic event.

Fun with Mickey and friends 
Even Disney characters are getting in on the action! Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Pluto, Chip and Dale dress up to honor their favorite Marvel Super Heroes, and young cruisers won’t want to miss this opportunity to have some fun and dance with the gang up on deck.

Of course the fun doesn’t stop there! There will be plenty of opportunities for heroic encounters with some of the mightiest Marvel Super Heroes and Villains, including an interactive show in the Walt Disney Theatre with Doctor Strange. You can learn how to draw heroes like Spider-Man, Captain, Iron Man and Groot and take a quiz to determine the perfect Marvel comic for you!

You can also meet and hear behind-the-scenes stories from some of Marvel’s animation, game and publishing insiders. What’s more, this action-packed day features an extraordinary evening deck show like you’ve never seen before. More about that soon!

Marvel Day at Sea premieres on select 7- and 8-night Disney Cruise Line sailings from New York this fall, and returns on select 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami in early 2018.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote.