My Experiences Aboard A Disney Adventure Cruise: An Incredible Voyage At Sea
The Wonders of Sailing on Disney Dream
Disney cruise is a magical experience — involving fun, frolic, and abundant enjoyment. Everyone must experience this atleast once in their lifetimes, with their families.
What better way to end our Disneyworld adventure than with a `Disney Dreams’ cruise? It was all things Disney! We had already finished our wonderful visit to the Disney Parks, in Orlando spending three lovely days there.
And now it was time for us to continue the Disney euphoria with this 5-day trip aboard the Disney Cruise. An unforgettable vacation at sea, with its larger-than-life thrills and heartwarming hospitality, bringing the family together.
The check-in process at the port in Florida was similar to an airport check-in. And the excitement began the moment we entered the huge ship. The opulent interiors done up in the Disney theme were stunning.
As is true for all luxury cruise liners the entire trip was packed with a plethora of activities to entertain guests.
From live performances, and Broadway-style plays, to screenings of popular Disney movies and hit shows, you are indeed spoilt for choice! As soon as the ship set sail there was the energetic `Sail Away’ party on the deck, with a lot of music and dance. Everyone from kids to adults were invited to join in that revelry. It was a great welcome on board!
Later, on the second day, there was the `Scavenger treasure hunt’ game. A special pirate-themed gear distributed earlier had to be worn by all participants for this amazing party.
Leaving no stone unturned to bring joy to cruisers, the massive pool deck was another popular area for both kids and adults and a great place to chill.
You could choose from temperature-controlled whirlpools, jacuzzi to full-sized plunge pools, and a separate Splashaway bay for the little ones.
Relaxing in these water bodies, with a mocktail in hand, a laidback style, whilst soaking in great views of the endless blue ocean was refreshing. This area morphed into an open-air theater in the evenings, bright and well-lit, for movie screenings.
Have you ever imagined a ship with a water slide like the type you find in water parks? Sounds unbelievable but is true. This ship had a huge, meandering water slide — the thrilling `Aquaduck’. It was a paid ride and required some waiting time, but thoroughly worth it.
Trip Highlights
As part of their planned itinerary cruise ships drop anchor at fabled ports brimming with natural beauty, art, and history.
Our first stoppage was at Disney’s private island — the Castaway Cay. We got to spend time on the sun-splashed beaches, and enticing turquoise waters. Gorging on a fabulous barbeque lunch, and soaking in the breathtaking views, before returning on board to continue the voyage.
The next day, the second stoppage was at the beautiful town of Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. We had a pre-booked guided bus tour for sightseeing around, halting at key points.
A major distinction between a regular ship and a Disney cruise is the `Meeting the Disney Character’ experience.
This is the most popular activity with kids — their eyes twinkling at the thought of meeting Minnie, Mickey, Goofy, Princess Elsa, Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Aurora and so many other characters. Hugging them, getting photos clicked, and taking autographs, making their dreams come true.
You’ll be astounded by the variety of unlimited, delicious food and drinks at your disposal on board.
From a lavish breakfast buffet in the mornings to a range of complimentary, specialty restaurants offering diverse menus to choose from for lunch. Or a formal seven-course, elaborate dinner served at one of the gourmet restaurants. Be awed by the most warm hospitality, and cheerful, courteous stewards serving your favorite cuisine. For dinner time there is a mandatory formal dress code. As such, it is imperative to pack formal dresses and footwear too.
And for that in-between food cravings, snack and salad counters are open at fixed hours for guests to help themselves to. In the evenings you can head to the lounge for a variety of snacks and beverages. Tiny tots would be delighted to find a soft swirl machine counter that would instantly take them to a fairyland!! Simply press a button and get yummy ice creamin vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry flavors in a cone.
I am sharing a comprehensive packing list of items cruisers require, especially for those who are ready to embark on a cruise after reading this blog:
Casual wear and comfortable footwear like flip flops, Swimwear and swimming accessories, Sports shoes and sports gear, Light woolens/ jackets, shrugs, Water-proof bags for wet clothes, Lightweight Backpacks for day excursions, Sunscreens, sunglasses, and hats.
In the eventuality of not having any item of clothing, there’s no need to be hassled. Shop from the lineup of stores on the ship itself!
