Five things to do on your next Disney cruise

By Cass Pettigrew


Have you been on a Disney Cruise before? Maybe even a few of them? You're not alone! On any given Disney cruise, about half of the passengers are returning guests. I can hardly blame them really. I've sailed with Disney 6 times myself and I don't plan on stopping any time soon!

For many reasons, Disney is the cruise line of choice for me and my family. One of those reasons is that there is so much to do on every Disney ship, even after 6 cruises, there are still places I haven't seen and activities that I haven't tried yet!

On our first Disney cruise, back in 2002, we followed the crowds, we dressed up in our finest for Formal and Semi-Formal Nights, we saw the evening shows, got our photos taken in the Atrium and then we headed to our assigned Dining Room for dinner every night. We did an excursion in every port, we attended as many of the activities that our schedule would allow and it was AWESOME! And believe it or not, our first two Disney cruises were adult-only ones since we didn't start our little family until 2006! That's right folks, Disney is not JUST for kids! We did what most other cruisers did on the next few sailings as well and we were very happy with our experiences as evidenced by the fact that we keep coming back for more!

Formal Night Pictures in the Atrium

Pirates IN the Caribbean Party

St Thomas, USVI, with Jet Boat excursion we took running in background

For our most recent cruise, in November 2013, we did things a little differently this time and it turned out to be the best cruise we've ever taken as a family. One of the many reasons why it was the best was because we did things our way. We really slowed down and took the time to enjoy things at our own pace. In all honesty, we didn't really have a choice as my health hasn't been the greatest these past couple of years, so I was sort of forced to slow down and I am so very thankful I did!

Here are some things that we enjoyed on our last cruise that I highly recommend trying yourself:

1- Skip the main dining rooms and have dinner at Cabanas. 
On most nights, (check your Personal Navigator for times!) Cabanas offers a sit-down dinner with a limited menu, served by Cast Members training to become servers in the Main Dining Rooms. This is a great option for those of you who don't want to dress up for Formal and Semi-Formal Nights but want something more than pizza, burgers or hot dogs from the fast food places. The service and food were superb and we wore shorts and tees!

Delicious steak and baked potato at Cabanas!

2- If you are on a 7-night or longer cruise, attend the matinee performances of the spectacular Disney shows performed in the Walt Disney Theatre. This will free up some time during the evening. Take advantage of this time to enjoy the empty top decks while everyone else is either eating or at the evening show. We did this 3 times on our cruise and the pools were almost empty every time! The other option is to skip the show entirely but I only recommend this if you've seen it before as the shows are truly amazing and are a must-do, at least once!

During the evening show, our daughter is the only one in the Mickey Pool!

Mickey Slide 8 times in a row, no waiting!

Aquaduck over and over again, no waiting!

3. Watch as your ship sails out of port. Most people hurry back on board and get cleaned up and then are onto their next activity and they miss one of the great little experiences of cruising. Next time when leaving a port, take some time to relax on your verandah or one of the top decks and watch as your ship sails away. This is especially fun if you are the first big cruise liner to leave as the guests from other ships often wave good-bye. It is really fun when the captain sounds the ships' horn, the best in the industry, and everyone else cheers! Also, keep an eye out for the Pilot, a local expert that comes aboard to help the captain navigate the ship safely out of the harbor, to return to his boat.

Norwegian Epic and Freedom of the Seas at Havensight Point, St. Thomas.

Hubby saw a few Canadian flags on this ship so he decided to show off ours.

Pilot ship coming to pick up the Pilot.

The pilot received a big cheer from those watching and waved back
in appreciation.

4. Skip a port and enjoy an empty ship! If you're sailing to a port that you've visited before or just one you don't particularly care to explore, stay on the ship and you will be rewarded with a lovely empty ship! Obviously, there are not as many activities scheduled during a port stop but there's still tons of things to do! Our daughter loved going to the kids clubs during this time because it wasn't busy and she got to do everything she wanted with no waiting.

Empty adult-only Satellite Falls while docked in St. Thomas!

5. Enjoy the pools and hot tubs at night! Most people visit the pools during the day but if you're like me and you can't handle the sun/heat/crowds, make sure to visit them at night. They are often empty and you can relax and enjoy a unique experience of swimming under the stars on the high seas!

Enjoy a movie while swimming!

So there you have it, a few different things to do on a Disney cruise. On your next cruise, be sure to try at least one of them and let me know how it worked out for you! 

Contact me for your free, no-obligation quote on a Disney cruise and cruise your way.

cass@mouseworldtravel.com

Two Disney Vacations in One!

Now you can enjoy a Disney Cruise and Walt Disney World® Resort stay – all in one vacation.

Package components include:
• 3-Night Disney Magic® sailings from Jan. 17 – Feb. 7, 2014
• 3-Night resort stay at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort (other Resorts are bookable but will affect the price per person)
• 3-Day Park Hopper® Theme Park Ticket
• Transfers between Orlando International Airport, Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Cruise Line® terminal

Packages start at $789 per person for a family of 4 (total package price $3,156).

To book this offer contact us by Dec. 31, 2013!

Additional Details:
• Offer valid for most Disney Magic 3-Night sailings, category 11B Stateroom, Jan. 17 to Feb. 7, 2014 and for most nights Jan. 17 to Feb 10, 2014 at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort in a standard room
• The number of staterooms and rooms allocated for this offer is limited.
• Cruise fare excludes Government Taxes and Fees of approximately $63 per person (subject to change), Gratuities and Port Adventures.
• Price based on 2 adults and 2 children ages 3-9.
• Theme Park tickets must be used within 14 Days from first use.
• No group rates or other discounts apply.
• Offer subject to Disney Cruise Line Terms and Conditions.

Disney Discount Round-Up

Looking for a great deal?  Check out these rates and contact us today for a quote or more information!  Be sure to mention the discount you are interested in!

WALT DISNEY WORLD

• Save up to 30% on your Walt Disney World Resort hotel room. For most nights June 13-August 14.  Book by June 14.  Add a minimum of 4-day park tickets and get discounted tickets too!
• Free Dining Plan Offer: now through July 31, but a non-dicounted room and tickets for arrivals most nights September 2-25 and get a Disney Dining Plan FREE.
• Save up to 30% on your Walt Disney World Resort hotel room.  For most nights August 15-September 28.  Book by July 31.

⇒ Contact us to book your Walt Disney World Vacation ⇐

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

• Sailings from Galveston, TX start at $699 per person (based on double occupancy).
• Onboard Credit + 50% off deposit: book a Disney Wonder 7-night sailing from September 28-November 16 and receive an onboard credit from Disney.  $100 per Inside Stateroom, $150 per Oceanview stateroom, $200 per Verandah stateroom.  Plus receive half-off your deposit if booked by June 30.

⇒ Contact us to book your Disney Cruise Line Vacation ⇐

FLORIDA RESIDENTS

• Spring Discount: As low as $56 per person, per day for a 3-night, 4-day package for most nights through June 3 (based on a family of 4 at All Star Music Resort).  Includes a Discover Disney Ticket.
• Summer Discount: Discounted resort hotel room rates for most nights June 4-August 15.  Book by June 19 for the best rates. Add a minimum 2-day ticket and receive a discount on your tickets too!
• 3-Night Bahamas, departing from Port Canaveral, Disney Dream, June 6, Verandah Stateroom.  Rates from $175 per person, per night.
• 3-Night Bahamas, departing from Port Canaveral, Disney Dream, June 13, Verandah Stateroom.  Rates from $175 per person, per night.

⇒ Contact us to book your Florida Resident Discount Walt Disney World Vacation ⇐

⇒ Contact us to book your Florida Resident Discount Disney Cruise Line Vacation ⇐

CANADIAN RESIDENTS

• 25% off prevailing rates on June 3, June 10, August 26 and September 2 Disney Wonder sailings departing from Vancouver, Canada. 

⇒ Contact us to book your Canadian Resident Disney Cruise Line Discount Vacation ⇐

U.S. MILITARY

• Special pricing on the 14-night Panama Canal Cruise (Los Angeles departure), September 14, 2013.  Contact us for pricing.

⇒ Contact us to book your U.S. Military Disney Cruise Line Discount Vacation ⇐

Disney Cruise Line Ports of Call

Here are the scheduled ports of call for Disney Cruise Line today:

Dream - Disney's Castaway Cay
Fantasy - Costa Maya, Mexico
Magic - Galveston, TX
Wonder - At Sea

If I could be instantly transported to one, it would be a toss up between Castaway Cay or Galveston.  Castaway Cay is absolute PARADISE! But, being in Galveston would mean my adventure was just beginning!  

Which would you choose?  Leave your comment here or on our Facebook page.

Take a Peek Inside Disney Cruise Line Staterooms

First time cruisers generally have a lot of questions; however, one of the first is "How small are the rooms?" Cruise ships are known for their tight quarters!!

Take a look at Disney Cruise Line's staterooms in the video below, and get ready to be surprised.  You will find spacious, comfortable and beautiful rooms in every category.  The extra touches that Disney gives to their staterooms will truly make your cruise experience exceptional!

Disney Cruise Line Announces All of 2014 Itineraries!

BREAKING NEWS!

Back in December we reported the itineraries for the early portion of 2014 on Disney Cruise Line, and just moments ago Disney released the rest of the year!

Contact us today at Mouse World Travel for additional information or a no-obligation quote.

In 2014, Disney Cruise Line will offer new itineraries, including an expanded collection of European cruises highlighting the Greek Isles. Plus, Disney Cruise Line will depart for the first time from homeports in Venice, Italy and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Mediterranean Greek Isles
Ship: Disney Magic
Ports: Venice; Katakolon; Pireaus; Kusadasi; Rhodes; Mykonos; Venice (overnight)
Departure dates: June 26, July 5

Southern Caribbean from San Juan
Ship: Disney Magic
Ports: San Juan; Antigua; St. Lucia; Grenada; Barbados; St. Kitts
Departure dates: Sept. 20, 27, Oct. 4, 11

Alaska from Vancouver
Ship: Disney Wonder
Ports: Vancouver, Tracy Arm (scenic cruising through fjord), Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan
Departure dates: June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, July 7, 14, 21, 28, Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25, Sept. 1

Nine-night Alaska:
Ship: Disney Wonder
Ports: Vancouver, Sitka, Tracy Arm (scenic cruising through fjord), Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan
Departure date: May 24

Bahamas and Western Caribbean from Miami
Four-night Bahamas
Ports: Miami, Castaway Cay, Nassau, Key West
Dates: Disney Wonder Jan.-April; Disney Magic Oct.-Dec.

Five-night Caribbean
Ports:Miami, Grand Cayman, Cozumel
Dates: Disney Wonder Jan.-April; Disney Magic Oct.-Dec.

Five-night Caribbean, including Castaway Cay
Ports:Miami, Cozumel, Castaway Cay
Dates: Disney Wonder Jan.-April; Disney Magic Oct.-Dec.

Edited to Add:
5-night sailings from Port Canaveral include two days on Disney's privative island, Castaway Cay.

Five-night Bahamas, including a "double-dip" on Castaway Cay
Ship: Disney Wonder
Ports: Port Canaveral, Key West, Castaway Cay, Castaway Cay, Nassau
Dates: Sept 26

Ship: Disney Wonder
Ports: Port Canaveral, Castaway Cay, At Sea, Key West, Castaway Cay
Dates: October 1

Four-night Bahamas, including a "double-dip" on Castaway Cay
Ship: Disney Wonder
Ports: Port Canaveral, Castaway Cay, Castaway Cay, Nassau
Dates: October 6

Ship: Disney Dream
Ports: Port Canaveral, Castaway Cay, Castaway Cay, Nassau
Dates: November 13

Disney Cruise Line® is ringing in the new year with some great offers!

Kids Sail Free from Galveston
New sail dates added! Kids 17 and under sail free on most 4-, 6- and 8-night sailings departing from Galveston Jan. 12 – April 26, 2013. To take advantage of this offer, kids must travel with two full-fare Guests in the same stateroom in categories 4A – 11B. Government Taxes and Fees not included.

Kids Sail Free from Miami
Disney Cruise Line is celebrating its inaugural season in Miami with a special Kids Sail Free offer on most 4- and 5-night cruises departing Jan. 14 – Feb. 25, 2013. Kids 17 and under must travel with two full-fare Guests in the same stateroom in categories 4A - 11B. Government Taxes and Fees not included.

Early Fall Savings on Disney Dream
Get a great lead rate – plus an onboard credit up to $100 – when you set sail on a 3- or 4-night cruise aboard Disney Dream departing from Port Canaveral Aug. 25 – Sept. 26, 2013. This offer must be booked by Feb. 28, 2013.

Contact us today for a no-obligation quote!

Celebrate the Miami inaugural season with Kids Sail Free!

Disney Cruise Line® is celebrating its inaugural season in Miami with a special Kids Sail Free offer!!

Kids 17 and under sail FREE when traveling with two full-fare Guests in the same stateroom in Categories 4A - 11B on most Miami sailings Jan. 14 - Feb. 25, 2013.  Choose from a 4-night Bahamian or 5-night Western Caribbean sailing - most include a stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.

Rate does not include Government Taxes and Fees of approximately $80 per person for a 4-night Bahamian cruise and $65 per person for a 5-night Western Caribbean cruise (all amounts subject to change).

And remember, ALL sailings only require a 10% deposit and you will receive a $25 onboard credit from Disney that can be combined with other onboard credit offers.

Let Mouse World Travel help book your amazing Disney Cruise Line® vacation!  Contact us today!

Early 2014 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries

Just announced!!!

All four Disney Cruise Line® ships sailing from Florida ports in the early half of 2014, you will have more opportunities than ever to visit Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, or combine a cruise with a visit to the Walt Disney World® Resort to experience NewFantasyland®!  From quick getaways to week-long tropical vacations - there is something for everyone!

Contact us today at Mouse World Travel for additional information or a no-obligation quote.

Sailing from Port Canaveral
3- and 4-night Bahamas
• Ports: Port Canaveral, Nassau, Castaway Cay
• Dates: Disney Dream departures Jan. 2 - Aug. 31, 2014; Disney Magic departures Jan. 6 – May 16, 2014

7-night Eastern Caribbean
• Ports: Port Canaveral, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Castaway Cay
• Dates: Disney Fantasy departures Jan. 11 - Aug. 23, 2014

7-night Western Caribbean
• Ports: Port Canaveral, Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Castaway Cay
• Dates: Disney Fantasy departures Jan. 4 – April 26, 2014

7-night Western Caribbean, including Jamaica
• Ports: Port Canaveral, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Falmouth, Castaway Cay
• Dates: Disney Fantasy departures May 10 – Aug. 30, 2014

Sailing from Miami
4-night Bahamas
• Ports: Miami, Castaway Cay, Nassau, Key West
• Dates: Disney Wonder departures Jan. 15 - April 23, 2014

5-night Caribbean
• Ports: Miami, Grand Cayman, Cozumel
• Dates: Disney Wonder departures Jan. 10 - April 18, 2014

5-night Caribbean, including Castaway Cay
• Ports: Miami, Cozumel, Castaway Cay
• Dates: Disney Wonder departures Jan. 19 - April 27, 2014

If you are a Platinum or Gold Castaway Member, your Mouse World Travel Agent can book your 2014 cruise beginning at 8 AM on Wednesday, December 5.  Bookings open for all Guests at 8 a.m. ET on Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012.

Disney Cruise Line Discount - Onboard Credit & Half-Off Deposit!

Beginning today and through Dec. 16, 2012, receive a $25 onboard credit, PLUS half-off your deposit when you book any Disney Cruise itinerary through 2013!

A number of the sailings from Galveston, TX have newly adjusted ports of call, including, for the first time, JAMAICA!

Contact us today for more information or a no-obligation quote!

Going from a new ship to a classic ship on Disney Cruise Line.

by Jennifer Dowling

jen@mouseworldtravel.com

I had the pleasure of sailing my first Disney cruise last year.  I was more than thrilled to book the brand spanking new Disney Dream just a little over 2 months after her maiden voyage. The Dream lived up to her name. She was an absolute Dream. We only had 3 nights to enjoy her, but it was instant love. The ship is so spacious and I never felt crowded, even though our sailing was sold out.

 After our wonderful trip, I couldn't wait to find a way to get back on her.  As luck would have it, I was able to do a tour on her a few months later. It was not the same as sailing, but those few hours were wonderful, and I even got to see areas I had not had time to explore the first time around. After raving about the ship to family, we all decided to do a big family trip on her this November.

 In the meantime I often wondered if I would ever want or enjoy one of the 2 Disney classic ships?  They are smaller and they do not have the amazing Aquaduck water slide.  I wondered if I would feel more cramped on a smaller ship, or notice crowds more. I took the plunge this past September and booked the Maiden Voyage out of Galveston on the Disney Magic. I was very impressed when I arrived at the port and saw just how huge this "smaller" ship is.  My worries were starting to go away. Stepping on board though, I had a slightly different reaction at first.  The Atrium felt so much smaller than the Dream and less Grand. 

  I will tell you now, this feeling lasted only about 3 minutes and I got over it.  The rest of the ship was beautiful and the Atrium soon seem to grow in size for me and I felt fine with it. After spending a week on the Magic, I can honestly say I never felt cramped, the ship seemed very large and I was never bored. They had so many activities going on that I never once had to worry about what I wanted to do next.  In fact I wanted to do several things at one time more than once. I found I really liked some areas on the Magic better than on the Dream, and of course, vice versa. When it comes to the adult pool area, the Magic 

has the Dream beat. it is much more secluded and it wasn't as easy for a family to accidentally walk through the area.The Dreams' Aquaduck is a must for everyone to try. Very fun, but sadly the wait times can get long, especially on sea days. All in all I really love both ships. I love each for different reasons, but I will never hesitate to go on one of the Classic ships again. The Dream is my first Disney ship, so it may be my first love, but not my only love.

 

The Dream currently sails out of Port Canaveral for 3 and 4 night sailings.

The Magic is currently sailing out of Galveston for 4, 6,7 and 8 night sailings. 

Contact your Mouse World Travel agent for the latest offers.

Pixar California Coastal Voyages

This fall, you can sail to the horizon and beyond on a cruise that only Disney can deliver! Watch this entertaining video to learn more about the 7-night California Coast voyages featuring lots of Pixar fun. These special cruises set sail Sept. 16, Sept. 23, Sept. 30 and Oct. 7 from the Port of Los Angeles.

These speciality cruises start at at $599 per person, based on double occupancy, in an Inside Stateroom with Restrictions onboard Disney Wonder®  Government Taxes and Fees are not included.

2013 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries

Today Disney Cruise Line revealed where the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder will be in late 2013.  Here are the itineraries with the new additions in bold.

The Disney Magic is currently sailing from Manhattan, then...

• Reposition to Galveston in September 2012, offering 7-night cruises to the Western Caribbean through May 2013
• Mediterranean cruises, departing from Barcelona, June 1-August 31, 2013
• Western Caribbean and Bahamian cruises, departing from Miami, October 20-December 30, 2013

The Disney Wonder is now sailing from Seattle on Alaskan cruises, then...

• Return to Los Angeles in September 2012 with a wide variety of itineraries available – Hawaii, Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal and California Coast voyages featuring special offerings from Pixar Animation Studios
• Caribbean cruises departing from Miami, December 23, 2012-May 2, 2013
• Alaskan cruises departing from Vancouver, May 27-September 2, 2013
• Western Caribbean sailings, departing from Galveston, September 28-December 28, 2013

Contact us today to book your Disney Cruise!

The Ultimate California Adventure!

Disney Cruise Line® and Pixar Animation Studios are teaming up to offer several 7-night California Coast cruises unlike any other!

The four magical voyages set sail on September 16, 23, 30 and October 7 from Los Angeles, and will feature the following:

• Pixar Presentations and Sneak Peeks: Artists and filmmakers from Pixar Animation Studios will provide an inside look at the creative process used to develop an animated feature which includes a look at the making of Pixar’s newest release “Brave” and a sneak peek at footage of future Pixar films. 
• The Art of Pixar: Storyboards, character sketches and other inspiring concept art used to design Pixar films will be on display in a special art exhibition at sea. This collection of art has only been seen outside of Pixar Animation Studios when displayed at leading art museums around the world. 
• Pixar Film Fest: Guests will be able to enjoy the entire Pixar library of films while onboard, including a selection of delightful animated shorts. The voyages coincide with the theatrical premiere of “Finding Nemo 3D,” which Guests can enjoy at either of the two theatres equipped with state-of-the-art Dolby 3D projection systems. 
• Pixar Character Encounters: For the first time, more than a dozen Pixar characters will meet with and greet guests throughout the cruise including Mr. Incredible, Remy, Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear. There will be a special Pixar-themed dance parties and a host of other opportunities to reconnect with favorite Pixar pals. 
• Special Gift: Sailing Guests will receive a commemorative lithograph created by Pixar artist and “Brave” co-director/screenwriter, Steve Purcell.

In addition, the California Coast itinerary lets you you see iconic sights and explore popular stops in San Francisco, San Diego and wine country.

To make this truly the ultimate California Adventure, add on the Adventures by Disney® "Lights...Camera...Magic!" guided group excursion!!  Only $199 per adult, and $189 per child (ages 4-9).  

During this daylong adventure you will be immersed in the magic of Disney and the history of Hollywood in unique, unexpected and unforgettable ways.

• Guided Hollywood walking tour, including a visit to the home of the Academy Awards® at The Hollywood & Highland Center (depending on theatre availability), or tour Grauman's Chinese Theatre.
• Depart for Beverly Hills, via Sunset Boulevard (home of the "Sunset Strip") to catch a glimpse of such famous spots as the Chateau Marmont and the Whiskey a Go-Go.
• Free time to explore the sights and shopping along Rodeo Drive.
• Depart Beverly Hills for the Original Farmers Market to enjoy an authentic atmosphere which offers family fun, and frequent star spotting!
• Lunch and free time at Farmers Market and just a short trolley ride away is the fabulous open-air shopping center, The Grove.
• Travel to The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank for a guided tour of the Studio Lot to visit spaces and places not open to the public - experiences only Disney can offer!
• Evening reception in Legends Plaza at the Walt Disney Studios where Disney's many gifted animators, Imagineers, songwriters, actors and business leaders have been honored.

You will be treated to VIP access and attention by two Disney-trained guides, enjoy exciting surprised and "magical moments" - including fun Junior Adventure activities especially designed for the younger guests.

Includes luxury coach transportation, water and snacks, appetizers and nonalcoholic beverages at the evening reception, one alcoholic beverage at the evening reception (ages 21+), special treats and surprises.  Tours operate on Tuesday, Thursdays, and Fridays.

Contact us today at Mouse World Travel for additional information or a no-obligation quote on both of these exciting adventures!

Disney Fantasy Pictures & Video

If you read our newsletter last month, you will know all about Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Fantasy.  Several Mouse World Travel Agents have already had the opportunity to sail on this beautiful vessel!

Want to learn more about the Disney Fantasy?  Take a look at some pictures on our Facebook page and enjoy the video below.



Ready to sail?  I know I am!

Disney Cruise Line Discount on Californian Coastal Sailings

Attention Canadian residents!! You can save 15% on most California Coastal sailings commencing Sept. 16 – Oct. 7, 2012. Offer applies to Categories 4A – 11A. 

Contact us today for more information or a no-obligation quote!