Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Disney Cruise Line

I'm often asked, as a travel professional, about Disney Cruise Lines, and the comparison between their cruises and the other companies.  There is really more than can be written in one post about Disney cruises versus the other lines, but I'll try to hit the highlights and elaborate in later posts.

First, and foremost, a Disney cruise is one that is completely orientated around the family.  From the decorations, to the shows and activities, to the restaurants and amenities, a Disney cruise focuses on all members of the family, no matter how young or how old.

All cruises are similar in many ways.  All include your meals onboard.  All include some form of refreshment.  All include onboard entertainment.  All include most onboard activities.  All have exciting ports of call with the ability to book excursions and onshore activities sanctioned by the cruise line.  All, obviously, include a stateroom, appointed appropriately for the level for which you cruise.  All have dedicated staff, wonderful cruise and activities directors, and knowledgeable employees that can make your cruise the experience you hope and dream it will be.

One of the first and biggest differences between DCL (Disney Cruise Lines...I'm just lazy and don't want to type it out :)  ), is that the refreshment, or drinks, that are included also include soft drinks.  Most of the other cruise lines only offer coffee, tea, juice (in some cases), or lemonade.  The inclusion of soft drinks is a big deal to many that travel with DCL.  I, personally, think it's a great idea, as I'm a big diet soda drinker as my morning pick-me-up versus coffee or tea.  Many that are traveling with kids also enjoy being able to offer soft drinks as a treat while aboard a Disney cruise.

One of the other biggest differences is the onboard activities for kids.  Most cruise lines offer some form of children's recreation, whether it's a special children's area, or special activities on a daily basis for kids.  Disney, however, takes it to a new level, with included children's activities for ages 3 and up (for voyagers younger than 3, Disney does have nurseries, however an additional fee is required for that service).  From Disney's Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (ages 3-10), Edge (ages 11-14), and Vibe (14-17), kids of all ages can find fun activities, onboard getaways, and lots of new friends while on a Disney Cruise.

Adults...don't thing we've left you out!  Private, Adults Only pools, spas, dining, and clubs offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of the cruise where you can get away an have some alone time.  There are even some adult only excursions on selected voyages (see your travel agent for more information).

Speaking of dining, another difference on a Disney cruise that sets them apart is what is referred to as Rotational Dining.  This is where each night, you and your seating party (which is your family plus others, depending on the size of your family and the table at which you are seated) rotate to a different restaurant
(there are three on each vessel) for a different, unique dining experience.  The best part...especially for those who are particular about certain aspects of their dining time...the servers rotate with you!  You get to know your server, and most importantly, your server gets to know you!  If you want coffee with 2 sugars and just a splash of milk?  Done!  They'll have it for you before you even think the thought.  Do you like Diet Coke with a wedge of lime?  No Problem!  It's there, and refills are just around the corner!  Your server will learn your likes, dislikes, and wishes and, with your help, can even suggest dishes to try in each restaurant.  It's a unique experience, only available on a Disney Cruise.

Of course, you can't have a cruise (or any destination/vacation for that matter) with the Disney name and reputation without having some signature Disney items built right in.  Characters abound on a Disney cruise, so seeing your favorites is no problem.  Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, offers many activities along with pristine beaches and wonderful grounds.  Adults, there is even a secluded adults only beach on Castaway Cay!  And for the kids, the activities continue on the island for those interested (always supervised, of course!).  On most voyages, nightly fireworks light the sky above the vessel and the ocean, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for your family at sea!  And, if that wasn't enough, on the Disney Dream, and the Disney Fantasy, you can cruise like Donald on the AquaDuck, a watercoaster at sea that even goes out beyond the rails of the ship!  Those Disney Imagineers think of everything, don't they!

All in all, a Disney Cruise is like no other.  From family entertainment, to quality beyond compare, a Disney Cruise vacation is sure to cover all your bases for a wonderful family trip!

Bon Voyage! and until next time, have a Magical Day and always be looking for your Enchantment Destination!!

-Jason

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