Planning your first Disney Cruise? Find out the biggest Disney Cruise mistakes newbies make (and how to avoid them)!
This list of Disney Cruise mistakes was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Ah, Disney Cruises!
As a family, we’ve embraced the magic and excitement these cruises offer, though we’ve learned it’s not without its challenges, especially when it comes to managing costs and expectations.
If you’re planning your first Disney Cruise, or even if you’ve sailed before but felt a bit lost, let me guide you through some typical mistakes families make and how to dodge them for a smooth, magical experience.
Disney Cruise Mistakes That Are Easy To Make
Mistake 1: Choosing the Wrong Stateroom
The excitement of booking a Disney Cruise can lead many first-timers to choose a stateroom without fully understanding the layout or location.
A bad room choice can impact your comfort and enjoyment, such as being too close to noisy areas or having less room than needed.
My Solution:
Research Stateroom Options: Disney ships have various stateroom categories, each with its features. Familiarize yourself with the layouts and what each type offers.
For instance, a stateroom with a verandah might be more expensive but offers private outdoor space which is priceless for relaxation while the kids nap. For me, having an outdoor space that was away from people was crucial for me to unplug for a bit.
Consider Location: Look for rooms away from high-traffic areas like elevators or nightclubs. Also, consider how motion sickness might affect your family; lower and midship rooms experience less movement.
Mistake 2: Not Arriving a Day Early
Many families make the error of flying in on the same day the cruise embarks. Any delay can cause you to miss your ship—a stressful start to what should be a relaxing vacation. Don’t do this!!!
My Solution:
Plan to Arrive Early: Fly in at least one day before the cruise. This not only buffers against travel delays but also lets you start your vacation a bit more relaxed. Plus, exploring the port city can be a fun start to your adventure.
Combine it with Disney World: Since a lot of Disney Cruises leave from Florida, tons of families kick off their trip with a few days in the parks. Not only does this make sure you don’t have to stress about flight delays, but you’ll also get the excitement of Disney attractions.
Mistake 3: Overpacking
It’s tempting to bring outfits for every possible event, but space in staterooms is limited, and overpacking can leave your room cluttered and cramped.
My Solution:
Pack Smart: Bring versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched. Disney Cruises are casual during the day, but you might want themed outfits for pirate night or dressier attire for dinners. Also, laundry services are available, so you can re-wear items.
Use Compression Cubes: Since there are some items that you’ll only wear once (like pirate attire) it’s nice to keep them in a compression cube to save room. Then you can repack them right after you wear them.
Mistake 4: Missing Out on Advance Bookings
First-timers often don’t realize that you can book many activities and excursions before you ever step foot on the ship. Waiting until you board to book can mean missing out on popular options.
My Solution:
Book Early: As soon as your booking window opens, reserve excursions, spa treatments, and special dining experiences. Also, check in online as early as possible to speed up the boarding process.
Mistake 5: Not Budgeting for Extras
The initial cost of a Disney Cruise can be quite steep, and it’s easy to assume that covers everything. However, extras like excursions, alcoholic beverages, specialty snacks, and souvenirs can quickly add to your expenses.
My Solution:
Set a Budget for Extras: Review the list of additional costs and set a budget. Keep track of spending on board with the Disney Cruise Line app. Decide what’s worth the splurge and what isn’t.
Mistake 6: Overlooking Included Dining Options
With all the excitement, it’s easy to miss out on what’s already included in your cruise fare, especially when it comes to dining. Some families end up spending extra on specialty dining without trying the included options.
My Solution:
Explore All Dining Venues: Disney ships offer multiple dining rooms that rotate guests each night, each with a unique theme and menu. These are included in your cruise fare, so enjoy them! Also, room service is included (except for a few items), which can be a great way to enjoy a relaxed meal in your stateroom.
Mistake 7: Not Using the Kids’ Clubs
Sometimes parents skip the onboard kids’ clubs either because they don’t know much about them or they think their kids won’t want to go.
My Solution:
Check Out the Kids’ Clubs: Disney’s kids’ clubs are some of the best at sea. They offer a range of activities and are included in your fare. Kids can meet characters, play games, and make crafts, giving parents a chance to relax or enjoy adult-only areas of the ship.
Mistake 8: Not Planning for Seasickness
Seasickness can catch anyone off guard, especially if you’re new to cruising. Not being prepared can make for a few miserable days at sea.
My Solution:
Take Precautions: Pack seasickness patches, wristbands, or medication just in case. Also, booking a stateroom in the middle of the ship and on lower decks can help reduce motion.
Mistake 9: Failing to Disconnect
Many parents spend too much time connected to their phones or laptops, checking emails or social media, and miss out on truly disconnecting and enjoying the moment.
My Solution:
Embrace Digital Detox: Take advantage of the opportunity to unplug. Enjoy the shows, activities, and your family’s company. If you need to check in, set specific times to do so, then put the device away.
Mistake 10: Not Watching Shipboard Activities and Shows
Some families get so caught up in other activities they miss the incredible shows and activities that are unique to Disney Cruises.
My Solution:
Schedule Show Time: Make sure to schedule time for the live shows and deck parties. They are high-quality productions that capture the magic of Disney and are a highlight of the cruise experience.
Disney Cruise Mistakes Wrap-Up
Embarking on a Disney Cruise should be a magical experience for the whole family. By steering clear of these common pitfalls, you can maximize your enjoyment and make the most of your time at sea.
Remember, a little planning goes a long way, and on a Disney Cruise, every moment is an opportunity for family fun and enchantment.
Looking for more Disney Cruise content? Check out 20 Top Disney Cruise Tips for a Magical Adventure, 7 Experiences You MUST Have On Your Disney Cruise with Kids, 7 Experiences You MUST Have On Your Disney Cruise with Kids, and 5 Must-Know Disney Cruise Hacks for Your Day At Sea!
