disney dream cruise wiki

Disney Dream Cruise Ship: Complete Guide

When the Disney Dream Cruise Ship began sailing in 2011, it became the third ship in the fleet and the first of what would be known as Disney’s “Dream class” ships. Let’s take a deep dive into all the guest rooms, dining, activities and entertainment onboard this amazing floating resort.

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In This Guide:

• Ship Overview
• Rotational Dining
• Adult-Exclusive Dining
• Casual Dining
• Lounges, Bars & Snacks
• Room Service
• Pools & Splash Pads
• Oceaneer Club
• Oceaneer Lab
• Broadway-Style Shows
• Pirate Night / Fireworks

Midship Detective Agency

• Spa & Salons
• Itineraries & Ports
• Deck-By-Deck Guide
• How To Book

Disney Dream Ship Overview

Image © Disney

The arrival of the Disney Dream in 2011 marked the first expansion of Disney Cruise Line’s fleet since its initial two ships in the late 1990s. It had been about 12 years since the launch of the Disney Wonder, and the Dream’s launch was highly anticipated — not just because of pent-up demand but also because Disney had an additional decade of experience and technological advances under its belt. Still no casinos onboard , but lots of new innovations such as a sort of water coaster called the AquaDuck, interactive artwork that springs to life as you pass by, and much more.

As you step onto the ship, your arrival is announced over the atrium loudspeakers as if you were arriving at a state dinner — the crew and your fellow passengers applaud to welcome you aboard, and your vacation has officially begun!

Inside the grand atrium of the ship which towers three decks in height, you might stop to gawk at the impressive overhead light fixture (22 feet in diameter and 13 feet tall, bedazzled with more than 88,000 Swarovski crystals and 24-carat gold plating).

There are plenty of photo spots here, from the grand staircase to the selfie-worthy statue of Admiral Donald [Duck]. Glass elevators zip up and down, ferrying passengers between 14 passenger decks, each waiting to be explored. Where will you head first?

How Does Disney Dream Compare to Other Disney Cruise Ships?

The Disney Dream is a sister ship to the Disney Fantasy , meaning the two are relatively equal in terms of construction (although similar areas on each ship are usually themed differently from one another). The Dream is significantly larger than the two original ships ( Disney Magic and Disney Wonder ) but is slightly smaller than the Disney Wish .

Based on the expected design of the remaining Disney Cruise ships currently being built , the Disney Dream should settle in as one of the “mid-sized” ships in the Disney Cruise fleet — larger than the classic ships, but well below the gigantic ship that Disney is planning to launch in Singapore in 2025.

As to onboard experiences, the Disney Dream is one of only two ships in the fleet to offer the AquaDuck water coaster, the Remy adult-exclusive fine dining restaurant, and virtual portholes (with live camera views of the outside) for its inside staterooms.

How Does the Dream’s Size Affect the Onboard Experience?

There are pros and cons to both types of ships — larger and smaller — but it really depends on your personal preference.

The smaller ships such as the Magic and Wonder are certainly easier to navigate on foot – you’re just a short walk away from virtually anything onboard. My wife and I tend to prefer the smaller ships for this very reason — but the difference is certainly not significant enough to be a dealbreaker. As a matter of fact, Katie and I have sailed onboard the Disney Dream more than any other Disney Cruise Ship despite generally preferring the smaller ones.

We at MagicGuides also tend to recommend smaller ships for first-time cruisers as they might feel a bit cozier when you’re trying to get your feel of the world of cruising — but again, it’s not a major consideration. My first Disney Cruise (and my first cruise ever, for that matter) was on the Disney Dream; I never felt overwhelmed during my maiden voyage and you likely won’t either.

Larger ships such as the Dream might not be able to dock in smaller ports; this is  usually not a concern thanks to savvy itinerary planning on Disney’s part, but some ports are so small that almost every cruise ship has to rely on tenders (smaller boats to ferry you between the ship and shore).

A bigger ship means more passengers, so you’ll find that all of the onboard venues are larger, too. Expect larger restaurants, larger theaters, and larger pools. Fortunately, the additional passengers are well absorbed by these so it rarely feels crowded. And thanks to clever design such as the use of forced perspective, there are still plenty of cozy spots onboard so you never really feel like you’re in a giant cavernous gymnasium.

Jump To: Overview   |  Staterooms   |  Dining   |  Water Fun   |  Kids Clubs   |  Entertainment   |  Spa & Salons   |  Itineraries & Ports   |  Deck-by-Deck   |  Fact Sheet   |  How To Book

Disney Dream Staterooms

One of the biggest decisions to make for your cruise is your own private room onboard the ship. Your stateroom (passenger cabin) serves as your hotel room at sea.

The Disney Dream has 1,250 staterooms, most of which offer an outside view via either a porthole window or a verandah balcony. There are four primary types of staterooms on the ship; each of those four types is further divided into multiple categories and subcategories. Your choice of stateroom is one of the biggest factors in the how much a Disney Cruise costs , because the per-person cost can increase depending on the stateroom category.

Here is a consolidated list of the room types offered onboard. They’re listed here generally from least expensive to most expensive, though there may be some price overlap. For a more in-depth look at each of these room types, see the descriptions and photos posted in our Disney Cruise Staterooms article.

Inside Staterooms on Disney Dream

Inside Staterooms are the smallest Guest rooms on the ship, but are still larger than those found on some other cruise lines. And thanks to some smart design, there’s still plenty of room for everyone and their luggage.

These staterooms have no porthole window and no balcony, but on this ship they do have so-called “magical portholes.” These are circular video screens which offer live video views of the outside, along with occasional character sightings.

Inside staterooms are offered in standard and deluxe versions, with standard being the smaller of the two. The standard version is also the only regular stateroom category on the ship which does not feature a split bathroom configuration; a split bathroom has a toilet/sink in a separate room from the shower/sink, allowing two people to get ready at the same time.

• 11C:   Deck 2
• 11B:   Decks 5, 6, 7
• 11A:   Decks 8, 9, 10
• 10A:   Decks 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Oceanview Staterooms on Disney Dream

Oceanview staterooms offer an outside view through a porthole window which does not open.

There are two major choices within this category: a  Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom which is similar in layout to many other staterooms on the ship, and a  Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom  which is larger (holding more people) and offers many additional features geared toward larger families.

• 9D (obstructed porthole with limited ocean view) :   Decks 6, 7, 8
• 9C (obstructed porthole) :   Decks 7, 8
• 9B:   Deck 2
• 9A:   Decks 5, 6, 7, 8
• 8C: Decks 5, 6
• 8B: Decks 7, 8, 9
• 8A: Decks 5, 6

A giant porthole with padded cushion, found in some Family Staterooms | Image © Disney

Verandah Staterooms on Disney Dream

A typical stateroom verandah layout | Image © Disney

Verandah staterooms offer a private outside balcony which can be accessed through sliding glass doors. Most verandahs have see-through railings (with clear plexiglass for safety), but a few categories have solid metal partitions or are otherwise somewhat obstructed.

• 7A:   Decks 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
• 6B: Decks 5, 6, 7
• 6A:   Decks 8, 9
• 5C:   Decks 6
• 5B:   Decks 7, 8
• 5A:   Decks 9, 10
• 4E (oversized verandah, some with whitewall) :   Deck 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
• 4C:   Deck 6
• 4B: Decks 7, 8
• 4A:   Decks 9, 10

Category 7A Enclosed Navigator’s Verandah | Image © Disney

Concierge Staterooms on Disney Dream

Concierge Family Stateroom | Image © Disney

Concierge staterooms offer additional personalized services , concierge staff, and access to an exclusive Concierge Lounge and sun deck.

• 3A:   Decks 11, 12
• 2B:   Decks 11, 12
• 2A:   Deck 12
• 1A:   Deck 12

Concierge One-Bedroom Suite | Image © Disney

Concierge Royal Suite | Image © Disney

Need Help Picking a Stateroom?

For free, personalized guidance on the different stateroom options offered by Disney Cruise Line, trust the Disney Cruise experts at The Vacationeer ! As an Earmarked Diamond level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner ,  The Vacationeer has helped thousands of families just like yours make their Disney Cruise plans.

When you contact The Vacationeer , you’ll be connected with a single, dedicated travel planner — no waiting on hold to speak to someone at a gigantic call center! Your Vacationeer will take the time to get to know your family’s needs to make sure that you find the perfect stateroom at the best possible price  so you get your money’s worth .

They’ll walk you through all the options, answer your questions, make your reservations for you, and share money-saving tips for Disney Cruises . The Vacationeer can even help you set up a zero-interest payment plan ; you’ll often be able to book with just a preliminary deposit, then pay over time .

They even offer a generous onboard credit that can be used toward your purchases on the ship. And best of all, their planning services are free !

So take advantage of free booking help from a Disney Cruise expert — contact The Vacationeer today for a free, no-obligation quote on your dream Disney Cruise!

Disney Dream Dining and Lounges

It’s generally well-known that food is a big part of the cruise experience , and the Disney Dream is no exception. With three sensational main dining restaurants, two elegant adult-only dining options, multiple lounges/nightclubs, and plenty of places to grab a quick meal or a snack on the go, you certainly won’t go hungry onboard this ship.

Rotational Dining Restaurants on Disney Dream

Like all Disney Cruise Ships, the Disney Dream offers rotational dining during the nightly dinner service. This Disney Cruise Line dining innovation pre-schedules you to visit a different restaurant on each night of the cruise. You’ll have the same servers each night, so they’ll get to know you and your food preferences.

Dinner at these three restaurants is included in the cost of your Disney Cruise .

Animator’s Palate

Animator’s Palate is the flagship dining experience on the first four Disney ships, including Disney Dream. Animator’s Palate offers a fan-favorite menu along with a taste of the magic of animation.

Menu items are inspired by Asian, Pacific, and Californian cuisine. Some examples of items you’ll find include black truffle pasta purseittes (a favorite of repeat DCL passengers), butternut squash soup, wild mushroom risotto, polenta cake with tomato and mushroom, lemon-thyme marinated chicken, beef tenderloin, and many more.

Your dinner also includes a tribute to animation – Undersea Magic features interactive digital animation of the Finding Nemo characters in a show that’s reminiscent of EPCOT’s Turtle Talk with Crush. It’s a fun digital twist on the usual concept of dining with Disney characters .

• Enchanted Garden

The use of “enchanted” in this restaurant’s name is no mistake: the atmosphere of this French countryside conservatory magically changes from daytime to sunset to nighttime during the course of your dinner, while light fixtures transform and flowers “bloom.”

Enchanted Garden offers farm-fresh continental cuisine; menu options may include lobster ravioli, an Ahi tuna and avocado tower, curried carrot & apple soup, sea bass, marjoram-scented chicken, and pork tenderloin. Round out the meal with a tempting dessert of steamed lemon buttermilk pudding, banana sundaes, chocolate tortes, and almond meringue cake.

Outside of dinner service, Enchanted Garden is also an alternate option (versus the primary onboard buffet Cabanas ) for breakfast and lunch on most days. You’ll find a less ambitious menu during those meal periods: the usual sausage, bacon, eggs, and hash browns for breakfast; salads, soups, burgers, grilled items, and pizza at lunch.

• Royal Palace

You’re invited to a royal banquet at this elegant restaurant inspired by the ballroom scene in Disney’s Cinderella and other animated classics: beautiful marble floors with a royal design, tiara-topped porthole windows, and hand-painted portraits of Aurora, Belle, Cinderella, and Snow White.

Your four-course royal feast includes options such as pomegranate-glazed duck breast, jumbo shrimp, spinach soufflé, avocado citrus salad, French onion soup, angus grilled beef tenderloin, roasted wild boar, lobster medallions, and Dijon-crusted rack of lamb. For dessert, indulge in the famed crème brûlée or enjoy a peanut butter mousse.

Adult-Exclusive Dining on the Disney Dream

Disney cruises are certainly family-friendly, but adults don’t need to worry that there’s nothing for them onboard. One of the great things on the Disney Dream that’s available exclusively to adults is a pair of elegant adult-exclusive restaurants . So send the kids off to the youth clubs, put on some nice duds, and enjoy a lovely kid-free date night at Palo or Remy!

Reserve a table at Palo for a delightful meal featuring memorable Italian cuisine. The stunning venue includes giant windows overlooking the ocean, providing a perfect backdrop for your meal.

Dinner menu items include seared sea scallops, tableside-fileted dover sole, butternut agnolotti, tiramisu, and a signature chocolate soufflé that’s considered one of the most popular items across the entire Disney Cruise fleet. On sea days, a tremendously-popular brunch service is typically offered.

Dining here requires an upcharge and space is usually in high demand; book as early as your onboard booking window allows.

The finest onboard dining experience is at Remy. Named after the diminutive chef in Ratatouille , this restaurant transports you to the heart of Paris for a gastronomic experience like no other. You might be seated in the main room, or perhaps in the 900-bottle wine room. Or opt for ultimate luxury: the private Gusteau room (complete with a custom multi-course menu).

Dinner begins with a signature champagne cocktail prepared at your table. Then, it’s a gourmet culinary adventure designed in part by Chef Scott Hunnel (of Disney World’s Victoria & Albert’s) and Chef Arnaud Lallement (recipient of three Michelin stars and voted by  other Michelin-starred chefs as one of the 10 best chefs in the entire world). A gourmet cheese trolley and selections such as duck, elk, Kobe beef, langoustine, and sablefish are hallmarks of the menu.

On certain cruises, there’s also a highly-demanded champagne brunch as well as a 5-course dessert experience.

Dining here requires an upcharge. You’ll want to book as early as possible to have the best chance of securing a spot.

Casual Dining on the Disney Dream Cruise Ship

Cabanas | Image © Disney

Breakfast and lunch are casual meal periods onboard the Disney Dream. So come as you are (just cover up any swimsuits) and grab a bite at Cabanas.

This restaurant offers a mix of American, Asian, and European favorites in an all-you-care-to-eat breakfast and lunch buffet served from nearly a dozen food stations.

Breakfast is exactly what you’d expect from an American perspective – custom-made omelets, bacon & sausage, Mickey Waffles, hash browns, and the like. There are also some international offerings such as rice and miso soup. For me, this is always a great chance to expand my culinary horizons with things I can’t normally get at home. My usual morning fare on the ship includes a giant healthy bowl of fresh muesli with dried fruits and nuts — admittedly usually with a few Mickey Waffles and bacon on the side (it’s all about the balance, you know).

Lunch at Cabanas is a constantly-changing mix of jumbo iced shrimp & crab claws, hamburgers, sandwiches, pizza, freshly-grilled meats, veggies, and much more.

Cabanas also offers an alternative dinner service most nights. It’s not buffet style at night; a server will present you with a menu and bring your food to you, and it’s usually a rather quiet meal. My spouse and I will sometimes plan to have dinner here on formal night if we don’t feel like packing dress clothes for the cruise.

Lounges, Bars, and Snacks on the Disney Dream

There’s always a place to grab a quick bite or a refreshing drink onboard. Whether you’re looking for a nibble, just want a soda, or are seeking something with a bit of alcohol , you’ll easily find it onboard. Here are just a few highlights:

• Beverage Station

There’s no need to purchase a separate drink package on a Disney Cruise, as most non-alcoholic drinks are included at no additional cost (a rarity in the cruise industry). This self-service beverage station located near the pool offers unlimited refills of sodas, teas, coffees, and other non-specialty beverages.

An adults-only retreat that focuses on specialty coffees and teas during the day, with cocktails in the evening.

A compelling open-air bar on Deck 13 offering expansive views and delightful cocktails. Adults only.

This family-friendly venue hosts interactive events for all ages. Karaoke, trivia, game shows, and even dance parties can be found here on a daily basis.

• District Lounge

A relaxed piano bar offering cocktails and nightly entertainment. Non-alcohol options are also available for those who want to enjoy the live music in a “drier” way.

Evolution lives up to its name. During the day, it welcomes cruisers of all ages for games, activities, and dance classes. At night, it evolves into a vibrant adults-only nightclub with a lively bar scene.

Evolution | Image © Disney

Eye Scream Treats and Frozone Treats

Cool down with all-you-can eat soft-serve ice cream cones (included in the cost of your cruise!), or spend a bit extra to enjoy a specialty smoothie.

Flo’s Cafe: Fillmore’s Favorites, Luigi’s Pizza, and Tow Mater’s Grill

For a quick grab-and-go snack poolside, check out these quick service windows. You’ll find pizza, chicken tenders, burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and more.

Meridian Lounge

Supplement your elegant meal at Remy or Palo by having cocktails at this upscale travel-themed lounge conveniently located directly between those two fine dining establishments. Cigars are also offered for purchase.

A serene lounge on Deck 14 in the forward funnel (red smokestack). This spot is often overlooked due to its secluded location, so it’s a quiet retreat with compelling views (and a great wedding venue, too!).

This Champagne and Wine bar pays tribute to all things bubbly, featuring a private-label Tattinger champagne created and bottled exclusively for this spot. Tip: look closely enough at the bubbles along the wall and you can spot pink elephants here even without having a drink!

Pink Wine & Champagne Bar (Disney Dream)

This contemporary sports bar offers live matches via satellite (when available) and comfortable lush seating. Open to everyone during the day, and adults only at night. The pub’s name is a nod to the ship’s hull number at the shipyard where it was created.

• Senses Juice Bar

Enjoy a healthy quaff at this retreat near Senses Spa and Salon. Fresh fruit and vegetables give their all for these nutritious protein- and vitamin-packed beverages.

This adults-only bar provides scenic views of iconic city skylines around the world. Thanks to a little Disney magic, the view out the “window” changes to a different city every fifteen minutes.

• Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats

Purchase hand-scooped gelato, baked goods, and candy in this shop inspired by  Wreck-It Ralph . Fees apply.

Room Service on Disney Dream

Almost all of the Disney Dream’s Room Service menu is offered at no additional charge – you’ll only have to pay for a few specialty items and to tip the crew member who delivers the food to your room.

The standard room service menu typically includes soups & salads, chicken tenders, burgers & dogs, sandwiches & wraps, and hot wings.  You’ll also typically find a few flatbreads or pizzas and perhaps some pasta. Dessert — usually cookies, cake, or pie — is also offered.

A favorite among repeat cruisers is the All Hands on Deck , a plate of assorted cheese, fruit, and crackers. Kids (both actual and adult) will be pleased to know you can also request a Mickey’s Premium ice cream bar – the same kind found in the theme parks.

If you don’t mind paying a bit extra, you can add on specialty items such as beer, wine, canned soft drinks, deluxe coffees, juices, and pre-packaged snacks such as candies.

Best Bets for Each Meal on Disney Dream

Below we list each of the main meal periods onboard the ship, and your best options for each.

• Primary option: Cabanas is the number one breakfast spot onboard thanks to its long hours, expansive options, and all-you-care-to-eat service style. Mornings can be rather hectic here, but there’s rarely difficulty in finding a seat.
• Secondary option: One of the three rotational restaurants (typically Enchanted Garden) usually offers a table-service breakfast, complete with a server who will bring your food and keep your drinks refilled. The menu is a bit more limited than at Cabanas, but it’s usually a much quieter option to start your day.
• Other options: Room service is available, but there are two things to know. First, you’ll need to order in advance via a menu card that you hang on your doorknob the night before. Second, know that the breakfast menu is extremely limited. There’s no “hot breakfast” (no bacon, eggs, sausage, or oatmeal); instead, it’s a continental sort of menu with juices, coffees, pastries, and cold cereals. I personally find the room service breakfast to be too limited, though I’ll admit there’s a certain charm to coffee and a light pastry while enjoying the sunrise from my verandah.
• Primary option: Like at breakfast, Cabanas is the best lunch option thanks to its wide selection. Iced jumbo shrimp and crab claws are a signature menu item most days and I usually eat my fill of them at least once during the cruise; you’ll also find freshly grilled meats, a wide variety of side items, some interesting international selections, and lots of tempting desserts.
• Secondary option: Spending the afternoon by the pool? There’s no need to dry off and head inside when you get a rumbly in your tumbly. Drip dry and head over to the food service windows at Flo’s Café for burgers, dogs, sandwiches, and unlimited ice cream cones. These windows often offer extended hours, which makes them a good failsafe for folks who miss lunch hours at Cabanas or get hungry before their late dinner service.
• Other options : Enchanted Garden typically serves lunch with open seating. Room Service is another good option, though there’s sometimes a lunch rush which can delay your food’s arrival a bit. The cloche-covered dishes sometimes mean that fried items such as wings might not arrive quite as crispy as you’d like.
• Primary option: Your assigned rotational dining restaurant is the heart of Disney Cruise dining and shouldn’t be missed. Your dedicated service team follows you all voyage long and will likely become your favorite Crew Members onboard the ship (my wife and I made such a connection with our servers on a 2019 cruise that we still remember their names to this day!). Add in special themed menus and other thoughtful touches, and you’ll quickly see why this is a highlight of each day onboard.
• Secondary option: As an alternative to your pre-scheduled rotational dining restaurant, you might opt to experience Cabanas in a totally new way. Dinner at Cabanas is an entirely different experience than the free-for-all buffet-style offerings that are the mainstay of breakfast and lunch. A host seats you at your table, and a server presents you a menu featuring some of the most popular selections onboard.
• Other options: Many cruisers enjoy dedicating at least one night of their cruise to an adult-exclusive meal at Palo or Remy. Otherwise, you can always grab something from the quick-service windows on the pool deck, or order room service.

Off-Hours Eating and Snacking

• Primary option: For cravings outside the main meal periods, your best bet is Flo’s Café on the pool deck. Their generous hours and snack-friendly offerings make them a great choice to tide you over between meals. Individual portions tend to be “snack sized” (perhaps 2 or 3 chicken tenders and a few fries), so you won’t spoil your dinner unless you want to by asking for a larger portion.
• Secondary option: Room Service is available 24/7, up until about 1:30 AM on the last morning of your cruise. It’s the only option for overnight snacking. I’ll occasionally order a few warm cookies and some milk at bedtime, but you can also order 1:00 AM buffalo wings if your antacid game is strong.

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Disney Dream Pools and Water Slides

The AquaDuck is the premier water attraction onboard the Disney Dream. This first-of-its kind (water coaster on a cruise ship) attraction takes its guests on a wild adventure high above the upper decks of the ship.

Guests board a raft and are propelled by jets of water through 765 feet of tubes and open-air slide segments; along the way, you’ll experience a 4-deck drop, a careening curve over the edge of the ship, and a journey through one of the iconic red smokestack funnels.

There’s no additional charge to ride the AquaDuck, but you will have to wait in line. There is no FastPass, Lightning Lane, or Genie+ onboard the ship. Lines tend to be longest on Sea Days and shorter when the ship is in port. Riding earlier or later can also help avoid crowds – just don’t forget to check the operating hours each day in the Navigator app.

To ride solo, Guests must be at least 54″ tall and at least 7 years of age. Children under the age of 7 who are at least 42″ tall and toilet-trained may ride with a companion who is at least 14 years of age.

Pools and Splash Pads

• Donald’s Pool

This pool offers a shallow wading area with a deeper center. This is a perfect place to enjoy Disney movies on the giant 24′ x 14′ FunnelVision screen nearby. This pool is sometimes closed during special on-deck events, covered with a retractable floor to offer more deck space.

Donald’s Pool | Image © Disney

Funnel Puddle

A shallow (approximately 1-foot deep) family friendly pool that’s far removed from the raucousness of the Donald’s and Mickey’s pools. This is the closest thing you’ll find onboard to a “quiet pool” that’s still open to all ages; but there’s still a small water fountain feature in the middle that kids love to splash in.

• Mickey’s Pool & Slide

The shape alone clearly communicates this is designed for kids; The deeper zones of this still-shallow pool are shaped like the friendly face of everyone’s favorite pal, Mickey Mouse. Meanwhile, one of Mickey’s signature white gloves supports a bright yellow waterslide for kids aged 4 to 14 / height 38″ to 64″. May be closed during deck parties.

Mickey’s Pool | Image © Disney

• Nemo’s Reef

This toddler-friendly splash zone features PIXAR characters spraying water, a child-sized Mr. Ray waterslide, and more — all in a shaded, enclosed, and “accidental tumble”-friendly soft surfaced area. Ages 3 years or younger; swim diapers are required.

• Quiet Cove Pool

A serene oasis for those 18 and up to get away from the kids for some quiet time. There’s a three-circled pool of varying depths, lounge-style seating in the shallowest segment, a whirlpool spa, and of course plenty of adult beverages nearby.

Satellite Falls Pool

One of the most unique water spaces onboard, Satellite Falls is an adults-only wading pool that features a cascading (ok, rapidly dripping) waterfall directly underneath one of the giant satellite domes on the ship’s upper deck.

Satellite Falls | Image © Disney

Disney Dream Kids Clubs and Teen Clubs

Much of Deck 5 on the Disney Dream is dedicated to spaces especially designed for younger passengers, and there are plenty of other youth-friendly spaces onboard. Here’s a preview.

• Disney’s Oceaneer Club

The Oceaneer Club is the primary kids activity onboard the ship. It’s the place where your kids will probably spend most of their time onboard. For some families, it’s not uncommon for the kids and adults to part ways at breakfast and regroup at dinner, with the Kids Club filling the gap between.

This secure facility is accessible only to kids aged 3-10 and trained youth activities staff — but there are pre-scheduled open houses to allow parents and kids to tour the location together. Inside there are tons of kid-friendly spaces and activities, and it’s all included in the cost of your Disney cruise! This amazing kids club is one of the reasons we consider Disney to be the best cruise line for children .

Andy’s Room

Kids are immersed in the world of Disney·Pixar’s Toy Story movies in this play area.

Disney Infinity Game Room

Enjoy interactive video games and activities in this high-tech space.

Disney’s Once Upon a Time

Disney characters come to life in this bookmaking and story time experience.

Jedi Training: Experience the Force

Learn the ways of the Force with this interactive training experience.

Pixie Hollow

This forest-themed area is the perfect place for storytelling, playing dress-up, and arts & crafts.

Puzzle Playtime with Mickey

Mickey and pals drop in for fun and games.

Star Wars: Millennium Falcon

The “fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy” is ready for adventure! Hop into the cockpit and zoom through the stars, the forests of Endor, and more.

• Disney’s Oceaneer Lab

A partner facility to the Oceaneer Club, the Oceaneer Lab offers lots of hands-on activities and experiences for kids ages 3-10.

Animator’s Studio

Learn how to draw your favorite Disney characters – or just entertain your own creative instincts.

Anyone Can Cook

Learn how to measure and mix ingredients and bake a batch of fresh chocolate-chip cookies.

Craft Studio

A spot perfectly prepared to indulge creative urges with hands-on creations.

Get the Hook!

A 3-day search through multiple crime scenes to find Captain Hook’s… well, you know.

Disney movies, video games, and occasional structured activities are the order of the day here.

Piston Cup Challenge

Bars of soap form the chassis of your custom-made race car in this fun, hands-on race.

Put on battle gear and join forces with The Avengers to take on super villains.

Super Sloppy Science with Professor Make-O-Mess

Meet a world-famous scientist with a penchant for unashamedly messy experiments.

The Wheelhouse

Home of  Tides of Fortune , a multi-player Pirates of the Caribbean game that can only be found on a Disney Cruise. A major component is piloting your pirate ship through the Caribbean Sea via video simulation.

Tweens and young teens (ages 11 to 14) have a space all to themselves onboard the Disney Dream, and it’s in one of the coolest spots on the entire ship: inside the iconic red smokestack funnel on Deck 13! Edge is the perfect place to relax as tweens see fit — a huge video wall, a dance floor, karaoke machines, a game room, and photo booths. The furniture can even be moved around so Guests can make the space their own. A mix of planned activities and unstructured free time keeps things interesting.

Those aged 14 to 17 have a unique indoor/outdoor space made just for them, complete with a super secret entrance! Indoors, teens will find plenty of TVs, video games, and tablets, plus dance parties, karaoke sessions, and group activities. Or, they can head outside to a private sundeck at the bow of the ship to enjoy deck games, splash pools, and sunbathing.

Vibe outdoor sundeck

it’s a small world nursery!

Tiny cruisers are well cared for in it’s a small world nursery! , an onboard babysitting service for infants and toddlers aged three and younger.

Disney youth counselors watch over the tykes, playing with them, feeding them, and handling diaper duty.

Nominal fees apply, charged by the half-hour (with a one-hour minimum), and there are discounts for multiple children in the same family. Advanced reservations are strongly recommended. Note that there are no in-room babysitting services onboard.

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Disney Dream Entertainment and Activities

Disney is an entertainment company at heart, so it’s no surprise that the shows and experiences onboard the Disney Dream are top notch.

Broadway-Style Shows in the Walt Disney Theatre

Each night of your cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a live show in the beautiful Walt Disney Theatre. This includes at least three Broadway-style shows during your cruise, along with other additions (such as family-friendly comedians, magicians, and hypnotists) on longer voyages.

Show times are opposite your dinner time onboard. So if you have early dining, you’ll see the late show — and vice versa.

Beauty and the Beast

This show brings a tale as old as time to the stage. Innovative puppetry and stunning special effects combine with skilled actors and memorable music to bring you an unforgettable evening.

Disney’s Believe

A true stage spectacular, featuring 300+ costumes, 200+ scenic elements, and a cast of characters assembled to help a daughter provide her hard-working father a bit of perspective on what’s truly important in life.

The Golden Mickeys

It’s awards night onboard the Disney Dream! Experience all the glitz and glamor of the red carpet as the crowd clamors to guess who will win the coveted titles of “Most Romantic” and “Most Heroic.” Meanwhile, there’s a problem… the emcee is missing! Fear not — these things usually have a way of solving themselves. This fan-favorite musical features songs from about a dozen different Disney films.

Mickey’s Color Spin Dance Party

This offering, presented on select cruises, features a 90s throwback themed dance party on deck. Start the show off with a group sing-along of Into the Unknown , then spin the color wheel to reveal a series of high-energy performances and easy-to-learn dances and group actions. Mickey, Minnie, and even Max are along for the party.

Pirate Night / Pirates in the Caribbean Deck Party with Fireworks

Pirate night starts with the delivery of pirate bandanas to your stateroom – then the party moves to your scheduled dining location for the evening, where a special themed menu awaits. Then, head up to the pool deck for a raucous show with high-flying pirates including favorite Disney characters. Finally, the grand finale (and another Disney innovation) – fireworks at sea!

Note: not every itinerary offers a pirate night, and fireworks may be canceled due to weather.

Sailing Away Deck Party

The official start to your Disney Dream cruise — your vacation begins when the ship’s horn plays those familiar notes and confetti rains down from the upper decks. Captain Mickey and all his pals are there to join the fun to ensure your trip gets off to a great, high-energy start.

Disney Movies in the Buena Vista Theatre

First-run and classic favorite Disney, Marvel, PIXAR, and LucasFilm movies are shown throughout the day in the Buena Vista Theatre. No need for a ticket — it’s completely free so all you need to do is find a seat at showtime.

Sailing during the premiere of a highly-anticipated Disney film? It’ll be shown repeatedly in the Buena Vista Theatre, likely after a huge “PremEAR at Sea” showing in the Walt Disney Theatre.

Goofy Golf and Sports Deck

If you prefer your entertainment to be a bit more active, there’s plenty of great recreation to be had on Goofy’s Sports Deck , located on Deck 13 aft.

Enjoy a delightfully ludicrous mini-golf course with nine fun-filled, pun-filled holes. It’s completely free and no tee times are required. Just grab a putter and a goofball, er, golf ball — and perhaps a scorecard/pencil if you insist on keeping things official (I don’t bother, as I see no reason to put my lies in writing).

This is one of my absolute favorite things to do onboard the Disney Dream. I just love enjoying a game of mini-golf out on the open ocean, and the sight gags just add to it. Vewy sewious mini-golfers will appreciate that each hole offers two tee locations — one just for fun and one for a slightly more challenging experience.

Elsewhere on the sports deck, you’ll find other, more mainstream pursuits, such as a basketball court and even a digital sports simulator (fees apply).

Down on deck 4, you’ll also find shuffleboard courts — a classic cruise activity.

Here’s a great way to explore the ship: sleuthing out a crime! Start your adventure at the agency kiosk on Deck 5 — pick up a badge and deck plan / casebook — and suddenly, the game is afoot!

This extensive adventure will send you all over the ship looking for more than 20 interactive artwork displays, where a series of random events and “choose your own adventure” dilemmas make sure that you can play over and over without getting bored.

Depending on the agency’s caseload, you might help Mickey and pals recover some stolen paintings, try to find 99 missing Dalmatians, or follow Pepe the King Prawn’s clues to solve a zany Muppet mystery.

Not only is this a fun adventure, it’s also an astounding way to orient yourself to everything on the ship! I highly recommend it for first-timers. And because your detective badge tracks your progress, you can play at your own pace, starting and stopping as you like.

Disney Dream Spas and Salons

Disney Dream offers a full-service spa onboard the ship, featuring many other health and wellness services.

Senses Spa and Salon

Pamper yourself with spa treatments, salon services, and rejuvenation procedures at this restful retreat. Services offered at Senses Spa include Swedish massages, aroma stone therapy, deep tissue massage, acupuncture, facials, teeth whitening, shampoo/cut/style, manicures, pedicures, and more. Even those who aren’t into spa treatments may enjoy the Rainforest Room with its various themed shower settings. Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, showers, lockers, sandals, and robes round out the offerings.

Exclusively for guests aged 13-17, this special area of Senses offers treatments to teens. A parent or guardian must accompany the teen for the duration of the treatment ( solo and combined treatments are offered as an option).

• Fitness Center

Perhaps you’re a regular exerciser, or maybe you just want to offset several days of all-you-can-eat meals. Either way, you can stay in shape with the offerings at the Disney Dream’s onboard fitness center. Whatever your preferred equipment — weight machines, cardio equipment, ellipticals, treadmills, and others — you’re likely to find it here. If you prefer a group experience you can join a yoga, Pilates, or aerobics class. Or, opt for personalized one-on-one training and analysis with a professional trainer.

• Walking/Jogging Track

If, like me, you’re not keen on a major workout but do enjoy a nice walk after dinner, you’ll be happy to know that the Disney Dream offers an open-air walking/jogging track on Deck 4. I like that it’s low enough on the ship to offer some close-up ocean views — especially handy if you’re lucky enough to see wildlife such as dolphins playing alongside the ship. A leisurely stroll is perfectly fine, but jogging is also fair game here if you don’t want to miss your daily run while onboard.

Get Free Credit Toward Spa Treatments When You Book With The Vacationeer

Disney Dream Itineraries and Home Ports

You can board the Disney Dream from several places around the US and in Europe.

Disney Dream has a busy schedule of cruises in 2024 .

• January through end of April: Caribbean cruises and Bahamian cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Early- to mid-May: Transatlantic voyage from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona
• Late May to mid-September: Various European itineraries from Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Southampton
• Mid-September to mid-October: Not yet announced
• Late October: Transatlantic voyage from Southampton to Fort Lauderdale
• November to end of year: Bahamian cruises and Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale

Here’s an overview of Disney Dream’s schedule of cruises in 2025  so far.

• January through end of September: Bahamian and Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• October and beyond: Not yet released

Find a Cruise Near You and Secure the Best Possible Rate

Disney Dream Deck-by-Deck

Here’s a look at what’s located on each deck of the Disney Dream.

• Health Center
• Tender Lobbies (ship exit at ports of call)
• Public Restrooms
• Self-Service Laundry
• Vista Gallery
• Category 9B
• Category 11C
• Walt Disney Theatre (main level)
• Animator’s Palate
• Guest Services
• Mickey’s Mainsail
• Sea Treasures
• Lobby Atrium
• Buena Vista Theatre (main level)
• Walt Disney Theatre (balcony level)
• Pink Wine & Champagne Bar
• Port Shopping Desk
• Shutters Photo
• Tiffany & Co.
• Vacation Planning Desk
• Atrium (overlook)
• Buena Vista Theatre (balcony level)
• “it’s a small world” nursery
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
• Port Adventures Desk
• Category 4E
• Category 6B
• Category 7A
• Category 8A
• Category 8C
• Category 9A
• Category 10A
• Category 11B
• Category 4C
• Category 5C
• Category 9D
• Category 4B
• Category 5B
• Category 8B
• Category 9C
• Category 6A
• Category 11A
• Category 4A
• Category 5A
• Funnel Vision
• Eye Scream Treats
• Filmore’s Favorites
• Luigi’s Pizza
• Tow Mater’s Grill
• Frozone Treats
• Rainforest Room
• Treatment Salons
• Whozits & Whatzits
• Category 2B
• Category 3A
• AquaDuck Entrance
• Funnel Puddle Pool
• Concierge Lounge
• Senses Spa (additional treatment rooms)
• Category 1A
• Category 2A
• Sports Courts
• Sports Simulator
• Satellite Falls
• Currents Bar
• Concierge Private Sun Deck

Disney Dream Fact Sheet

Shipyard (ship’s birthplace).

Meyer Werft – Papenburg, Germany

Maiden voyage

January 26, 2011

Varies by time of year — see Itineraries & Ports above

Ship’s Registry

Approximately 130,000 gross tons

22 knots cruising speed

23.5 knots maximum speed

Diesel-based electric

Crew Members

Maximum capacity.

4,000 passengers

1,250 staterooms

• 901 verandah staterooms (includes 21 suites)
• 199 oceanview staterooms
• 150 inside staterooms (12%)

How To Book a Cruise on the Disney Dream

While there are many ways to book Disney Cruise Line vacations , we believe the best way to secure your spot on the Disney Dream (or any other Disney Cruise ship ) is to work with one of the Disney Cruise experts at our official travel agency partner The Vacationeer .

This Earmarked Diamond level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , offers absolutely free help planning and booking your cruise . Their group of Disney fanatic travel agents can help you make all the right choices, picking the right ship for your family and helping you choose between a Disney Cruise and other cruise lines such as Princess , Carnival , Norwegian , and Royal Caribbean (they book them all!).

Your cruise won’t cost more than if you’d booked it yourself — it might even cost less ! Their genius-level knowledge of money-saving discounts is one of the many reasons to book with a Disney travel agent .

Another reason? The Vacationeer offers Onboard Credit — free spending money that you can use toward purchases you make while you’re onboard the ship! Use it towards specialty dining, souvenirs, spa treatments, shore excursions , gratuities , and more! Booking through The Vacationeer can earn you up to $1,000 in onboard credit .

And finally, there’s The Vacationeer’s personalized service . You’ll be assigned a single, dedicated agent who’ll handle your cruise arrangements from start to finish . Imagine — never having to wait on hold to speak to yet another agent in a giant call center! Good luck finding that level of service with a nationwide wholesaler !

So what’re you waiting for? It’s time to take a Disney Cruise — and  Vacationeers are ready to help!

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Disney Dream Cruise Ship: The Complete Guide

Disney Cruise Line

In a cruise industry that loves "newest and biggest" headlines, Disney Cruise Line has been a quieter player with just five ships: the  Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish. The Disney Dream debuted in 2011 and features terrific kids programs, teen lounges, Flounder's Reef nursery, top quality live shows, a private Caribbean island, Castaway Cay , a combo of Disney World/ cruise vacations, and, of course, Disney quality and imaginative touches.

If you're planning a trip on the Disney Dream, here are 14 features to discover.

AquaDuck Water Coaster

The most prominent new feature on the Disney Dream is the AquaDuck Water Coaster: an impressive sight on the ship's upper decks. The AquaDuck water coaster has turns, drops, an uphill section, and river rapids: riders zoom along in two-person rubber rafts. The ride extends for 765 feet, starting on Deck 16 with a drop and then a swing-out loop that extends 13 feet beyond the side of the ship, 150 feet above the ocean below. Read details of all the drops, twists, and turns of the AquaDuck water coaster, ending with a splashdown on Deck 12.

Kids must be 48 inches tall to ride the AquaDuck!

Virtual Porthole in Cabins

Neat idea! And an industry "first", on the Disney Dream . The inner cabin pictured above is transformed by a high-tech "Virtual Porthole" that displays a real-time view of the sea outside the ship. High-definition cameras feed live video to each Virtual Porthole. Fancy technology ensures that, for each cabin, that Porthole's view is consistent with the motion felt in that part of the ship. Guests might also see an animated character visit at the window: such as Peach the starfish, above, a character from the "Finding Nemo" movie.

It's a Small World Nursery

Like the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic (which each have a nursery called Flounder's Reef), the Disney Dream cruise ship has a nursery for infants and tots age 3 months to 3 years. Parents can check on their kids through one-way window into the nursery's main play area. The nursery has a naptime area too. As with Flounder's Reef nursery, parents will need to book in advance for the nursery and pay an extra charge. (Other kids programs are all-included in the cruise.) On the plus side, kids under three sail free on Disney cruises.

Oceaneer Club

Kids age 3 to 10 can have fun at the Oceaneer Club, on the Disney Dream . Above is a central hub area with a Peter Pan "Never Land" theme: a place for storytelling, Disney character meet'n'greets, and for performances starring -- the kids themselves. Also in this area is a giant screen, for watching movies and for interacting with Crush the Turtle.

Turtle Talk with Crush

Guests who've been to Disney World may already have met Crush the Turtle... (Hey, remember, dudes? He's the turtle that actually talks, like really talks, to kids, and they talk back - awesome, totally.) Using similar technology, Crush will also make appearances on the giant screen in the Never Land area of the Oceaneer Club, on the Disney Dream ship.

Andy's Room, in the Oceaneer Club

Andy's Room, familiar to kids from the Toy Story movies, offers places to climb; computers integrated into the walls, for games; costumes and props for make-believe.

Pixie Hollow, in the Oceaneer Club

In this themed play area -- depicting the forest home of Tinkerbell and fairy friends-- kids can make crafts or play dress-up. Other play areas in the Oceaneer Club are Explorer Pod , with a submarine surfacing in the center of the room, and computer game stations; and Monster's Academy , with play structure for climbing, computers integrated into the walls for games, and monster costumes and props.

Oceaneer Lab

The Oceaneer Lab is another area on the Disney Dream for kids age three to ten, and it's connected to the Oceaneer Club by two Workshops. The main hall, above, has a celestial map overhead; a stage for kids' performances and storytelling; a screen for watching movies, and for visits by famous animated character Stitch (using the same technology as Turtle Talk with Crush.) The Oceaneer Club also has an Animator's Studio, and a Sound Studio with song-making and recording software. The two Workshops, meanwhile, are used for hands-on fun, such as science labs, art projects, or trying out some culinary skills.

Animator's Studio

In this part of the Oceaneer Lab on the Disney Dream , kids will find everything a creative animator needs: maquettes (3D character models), light box table, drawing tools, computer stations... Kids can create their own art or sketch favorite Disney characters

Vibe Teen Club

On Deck 5 of the Disney Dream , teens age 14 to 17 have 9000 sq. feet of their own indoor and outdoor space. A "teen-only" swipe card gets them into an area with fountain bar, cushy chairs, media room... Kids can try out video editing technology, social media apps, WiFi laptops, and lots more.

Tween Club, Edge

The Vibe teen club -- for ages 14 to 17-- extends to an outdoor area, with lounge chairs, wading pools, water fountains and jets, and games such as foosball and ping-pong. Tween Club - Edge Meanwhile, kids age 11 to 13 can hang out at the Edge lounge, a loft-type space with notebook computers for games and social media; massive video wall for gaming or movies (used as one giant screen, or smaller screens); a lighted dance floor; and view of the AquaDuck water coaster as it passes through the forward funnel of the ship where the Edge is located.

Atrium Lobby

Click the photo above to see a larger image: a 5-foot tall bronze statue of Admiral Donald Duck will survey this three-deck lobby, from the base of the grand staircase.

Enchanted Garden and Other Restaurants

The Enchanted Garden Restaurant , shown above, is styled as an airy conservatory, with a "sky" that transforms from day to sunset to night-time, while guests dine. For other family dining choices: those who've sailed on the Disney Magic or Wonder will be happy to find a recurrence of the Animator's Palate , a signature restaurant decorated with black-and-white sketches that turn into color during the course of the meal. The Royal Palace restaurant, meanwhile, is inspired by classic Disney movies like Cinderella, Snow White, and Sleeping Beauty. Read more about the restaurants on the Disney Dream.

The District Adults-Only Area

Where will the family sleep, during the cruise? Guests on the Disney Dream have a range of choices, from 898 sq. ft. of space in a "Royal Suite with Verandah", to Standard Inside Staterooms with 169 sq. feet. Remember that these inside staterooms have virtual portholes, which transform the experience of an inside cabin; they can sleep three to four people, with a queen-size bed, a converible sofa, a privacy divider and (in some units) a pull down bed. Several types of cabins on the Disney Dream cruise ship can sleep a family of five. Read about the many cabin options, at this Disney Dream Staterooms Fact Sheet. The District - Adults-Only Area The District, on Deck 4 of the Disney Dream , is a zone for ages 18 and up, with a piano lounge, several bars including the Skyline bar with changing views of famous city skylines; a pub with giant tv; a club for comedy acts, dancing, live performances. Also in The District: Senses Spa & Salon spans two decks, with 17 treatment rooms, steam bath, sauna, rain showers; and -- for that extra pampering-- two spa villas with treatment suite, and private verandah with whirlpool hot tub. The Disney Dream also has a gym with ocean views; the Quiet Cove adult pool, and Cove Cafe (with wiFi); and grownups-only dining at Palo restaurant (the high-end Italian restaurant, familiar from the other two Disney ships.)

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Disney Dream Staterooms

• CruiseMapper
• Disney Cruise Line

Disney Dream

Cruise line Disney Cruise Line

• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida)
• Southampton (England)

Disney Dream current position

Disney Dream current location is at North West Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 25.75138 N / -77.34931 W) cruising en route to Nassau. The AIS position was reported 32 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Disney Dream

Disney Dream current cruise is 4 days, round-trip Bahamian Cruise From Fort Lauderdale . Prices start from USD 3028 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 22 Apr, 2024 and ends on 26 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of Disney Dream

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Disney Dream Itineraries

Disney dream review, review of disney dream.

The 2010-built MS Disney Dream cruise ship is Walt Disney 's third (Dream-class) liner with sistership Disney Fantasy (2012).

The vessel (IMO number 9434254) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311042900) and registered in Nassau .

History - construction and ownership

DCL-Disney Cruise Line is a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company (shipowner). The company was incorporated in 1996 as "Magical Cruise Company Ltd". Walt Disney also owns the Bahamian private island Castaway Cay (exclusive port of call - for Disney ships only) and an exclusive Cruise Terminal at Port Canaveral (Orlando Florida) . Disney cruises are marketed as "family vacations" and feature unique and exclusive activities, such as costumed Disney Characters, adults-only deck areas, dedicated facilities for teens, kids and infants-toddlers, signature (trademarked) shipboard facilities and activities, themed live entertainment.

The 4000-passenger ship Disney Dream is among industry's best cruise liners for families with small kids (younger than 8). MS Disney Dream is almost 50% larger, 2-deck taller and with 44% bigger passenger capacity in comparison to the older fleet mates Magic and Wonder . The ship design is inspired by traditional 1920s ocean liners. The vessel features a navy blue hull, 2 bright red funnels, elegant Art Deco decorations and some of the most innovative technologies and fun ideas at sea, including:

• 22 pieces of "Enchanted Art" adorning the walls of hallways - paintings and pictures that are actually framed LCD screens with a technology to recognize guests present and proceeding with one of several animations;
• wave phones in every stateroom (used to call or text other guests) and effectively replacing the old onboard beeper system (now the counselors' messages come directly to the parents' phones);
• the Magical Portholes on the walls of all Disney Dream Inside cabins (LED screens showing a real-time view of the ship).

The CLIENTELE consists almost entirely of North American travelers (the USA and Canada). The new Disney Lines approach to teens and young couples (by age-related activities and limited access onboard venues) adds a really strong appeal for multi-generational cruisers.

The DRESS CODE is similar to that of the Disney luxury resorts - day casual and evening resort casual (men - jackets (no ties) and pants, women - summer dresses). All Disney Dream sailings include one pirate and one semi-formal night. On 3-day Disney Dream cruises, one night is casual, 4-day sailings are with 2 casual evenings and on 5-day voyages 3 nights are casual.

Disney Dream TIPS (totaling the US $12 PP per day) are given to waiters (including the assistant waiters) and to cabin attendants. Additionally, a 15% gratuity on all drinks is automatically charged to guests' shipboard accounts.

Decks and Cabins

Most Disney Dream staterooms (1250 total, in 28 grades) are 205-255-ft2 Balconies. The ship has 21 Suites, 887 Balcony, 199 Oceanview and 150 Inside cabins. The largest accommodations are the Concierge Royal Suites (900 ft2 / 84 m2 plus 885 ft2 / 82 m2 terrace).

Disney Dream ship cabins are very well planned and equipped. Like on all Disney ships, Disney Dream staterooms are some of the industry's largest standard cabins, most of them designed to easily accommodate four passengers. Some of the best Disney cabins features are the ample closet space, the normal-sized living space and the split bathrooms (1 room with shower-bathtub-sink and a separate toilet and sink).

Beds on Dream are raised to allow storing 2 medium-sized suitcases underneath, staterooms also got 2 vanities, a 22-inches smart HDTV, an iPod docking station and 2 rechargeable "Wave Phones" to be used ship-wide. The Disney Dream Inside cabin has a most innovative feature (and the industry's first, for that matter) - the Magical Portholes, which are LCD screens (above the beds) in the shape of portholes, projecting a real-time view outside the ship (provided by cameras). Veranda cabins feature 2 chairs and a small table on the balcony. The Disney Dream suites. Concierge Suites and Concierge Family Cabins (Deck 11-12) are new for the line, offering direct access to the ship's concierge facilities (1 small lounge, a private sun deck area with chairs, free food and drinks).

Most 1-bedroom suites are with connecting doors (1 queen bed a sitting area with a double convertible sofa, 1 pull-down bed in the living rooms, a walk-in closet, 2 bathrooms (one with a hot-tub). The largest Disney Dream stateroom, the Royal Suite, adds to all previously mentioned a living room, a wet bar, a kitchenette, media library and a Jacuzzi on the balcony.

The boat has 14 decks , of which 9 are with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

The Disney Dream three themed main restaurants are called "Animator's Palate", "Enchanted Garden" and "Royal Palace". There are 2 adults-only specialty restaurants - "Remy" (named after the "Ratatouille" movie star, French cuisine) and "Palo" (Italian cuisine) as alternative dining options. The line's Rotational Dining system allows you to rotate to each of the three main restaurants each night while your servers follow you. The Animator's Palate has screens showing animated Disney characters and themes from "Finding Nemo" movie. The Enchanted Garden is a Versailles-inspired room, featuring lighting effects, transforming day into night. The Royal Palace is princesses-themed with numerous portraits of "Cinderella" and the "Sleeping Beauty" movie characters (even the bread baskets are shaped as Cinderella's coach). The food quality is very good, the service staff is amicable and timely.

The Remy specialty restaurant is a classy place to be on any special occasion, offering a marvelous French menu and charging serious prices - a service fee of $75 PP (reservations are required, along with the formal dress code), drinks and wine are additional. The Palo restaurant is an Italian (Mediterranean) eatery with $20 cover PP (serves dinner and on selected days - Champagne brunch). Superb fish and seafood entrees, a cold buffet (meats, cheese, shrimp, salads and desserts) and several hot made-to-order items. The "Cabanas" casual dining complex on Deck 11 has several food and drink stations for hot and cold buffet items (including made-to-order omelets and sandwiches). The "Flo's Cafe" offers burgers, chicken fingers, wraps, pizza, salads.

Follows the complete list of Disney Dream restaurants and food bars.

• Enchanted Garden Restaurant (696-seat forward Dining Room, inspired by the gardens of Versailles; serves as a buffet for breakfast and lunch, full service for dinner 5:45-8:15 p.m.)
• Royal Palace Restaurant (696-seat forward Dining Room, offers complimentary French cuisine; specialty coffees and drinks are extra)
• Animator's Palate Restaurant (696- seat aft Dining Room, animator's studio design, features favorite Disney-character dinner shows; serves complimentary drinks; Rotational Dining with two fixed Dinner seatings - at 5:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m.)
• Flo's Cafe (quick service restaurant with 3 food stations: "Fillmore's Favorites" (lite lunch, complimentary), "Tow Mater's Grill" (burgers bar, complimentary) and "Luigi"s Pizza")
• Cabanas (self-service complimentary restaurant with American cuisine, pasta, sushi)
• Remy (reservations-only, adults-only French specialty restaurant for lunch and dinner; aft location, bookings via the Internet or onboard)
• Palo (144-seat Italian specialty restaurant; adults-only, reservation-only; aft location; bookings via the Internet or on board).

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The Disney Dream kids cruise fun clubs are the main reason for the line's high loyalty passengers ratio. Besides all the Disney characters and most innovative technologies and fun attractions on ships, the Disney children counselors are a pretty big reason many families to repeat their visits. Always smiling and friendly, they are hugely experienced, all college educated, attentive and downright. The Oceaneer's "Club" and "Lab" facilities (ages 3-10) are connected, thus doubling the fun space. The "Oceaneer's Club" features the "Andy's Room" (with oversized Disney characters for kids to climb on) and the "Laugh Floor" (with its "laugh-o-meter" and Mike and Sully of "Monsters Inc"). The "Oceaneer's Lab" is maritime-themed, featuring an Animator's Studio and a small Sound Studio. The new Disney approach allows all kids ages 3-10 to access the same clubs with separate rooms and age-related activities.

The ship's children club is called "Edge" (ages 11-13) properly secluded on Deck 13 in the funnel. The best attractions here are the 18 ft (5,5 m) tall LCD wall, the video karaoke, and numerous interconnected PCs. The teen-only "Vibe" club (ages 14-17) is of 9,000 sq. foot (836 m2), with a fountain bar and its own sun deck and pools.

The list with adults-only entertainment venues includes a dozen different lounges and bars (cocktail places), like the "Pink's Champagne Bar", the "687" sports bar, the "Evolution" nightclub, the top-deck "Meridien" wine bar (between Palo and Remy). Public spaces are decorated in deep blue and red, with numerous "Mickeys" just about everywhere (cabin, artwork, dinnerware, railings). One of the ship's most memorable places is the 3-deck high Atrium lobby with its golden hue, the wide royalty-style winding staircase, and the Donald Duck bronze statue. The Dream Atrium is a hub area connecting restaurants, theaters, and shops. You may check emails in the Internet cafe, but there's also Wi-Fi coverage throughout the ship. Like all Disney ships, Dream has no casino.

• Fun activities on board

All Disney stage shows feature intricate sets and Disney-themed captivating performances, and the big place for grand entertainment is the Disney Theater with goldies like the "Golden Mickeys" and "Villains Tonight", new amazing stage productions, like the "Disney's Believe" (directed by Gordon Greenberg) and all the best Disney movies in 3D. The themed Disney characters onboard have always been the greatest sensation of all, and there are countless opportunities to meet and greet Mickey and company around the ship - in contrast to Disneyland, here they all are accessible and will always stop for a hug and a photo with you. Another big success is the "Pirates in the Caribbean" kids party divided into two programs - the sing-along called "Mickey's Pirates in the Caribbean" followed by the "Club Pirate" (with many special effects) and great Disney fireworks between the shows.

• SPA and FITNESS, pools, waterslide, technology

The "Senses" Spa & Salon offers all the usual treatments (haircuts, manicures) and more exotic choices (hot-stone massages, mud baths). The "Chill" is a teen-only Spa within the facility. The Fitness Center along with the usual equipment offers at additional fee Yoga and Pilates classes. The Sports Deck has a small sports court, a mini-golf course, Ping-Pong tables, a walking/jogging track.

The pool deck has a large area for family fun water activities, featuring 2 hot tubs and 2 kids pools - "Donald's" (5 ft deep) and "Mickey's" (with a spiral slide). A big attraction here is the big LED screen mounted on the funnel. There's a toddler splash area (Nemo themed) located in the center on Deck 11 with huge glass panes for parents to monitor their kids.

The AquaDuck waterslide - the ever first water-coaster at sea is located atop the ship, featuring a 765 ft (233 m) long 4-decks high transparent tube, reaching the incredible 150 ft (46 m) above the ocean (there's a 42-inch (107 cm) height requirement). The "Nemo's Reef" is a small kids waterpark. And while speaking of water and pools - the adults-only "Quiet Cove" pool area is a great place to hide from all the little angels and devils around the ship.

Follows the complete list of Disney Dream lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• Walt Disney Dream Theatre (1340-seat, offers live shows, aerial acrobatics performances, grand-style productions, 3D movies; with two evening shows - at 6:15 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.)
• Dream's Atrium (3-deck high central ship area, featuring marble-carpet flooring, grand staircase, and panoramic glass elevators)
• Mickey's Mainsail (Disney brand logo shop for postcards, souvenirs, DVDs, toys, clothes, games)
• Sea Treasures (duty-free crystal, brand jewelry, watches, precious stones, Disney merchandise, underwear, sport, and swimming apparel)
• Whitecaps (duty-free brand jewelry, perfumes, liquor, and tobaccos)
• Bon Voyage Bar (adults-only, serving wine, beer, and cocktails)
• Buena Vista Theatre (399-seat 4D cinema, features 3D movies, Dolby Surround 7.1 and Dolby 3D movie technology)
• Preludes Bar (quick wait-service snacks & beverages bar)
• Shutters PhotoShop (photo packages, accessories, photographic services)
• Vista Cafe (atrium bar for specialty coffees and teas, dinner cocktails, complimentary snacks, and pastries; Wi-Fi spot)
• D Lounge Bar & Nightclub; Evolution Disco & Nightclub; Vista Gallery
• The District (adults only area including the District Lounge, Evolution night club, Pink Champagne Bar, 687 Sports Bar, Skyline Bar)
• Pink (adults-only champagne bar; chocolate and alcohol tasting classes)
• Skyline Lounge (adults only cocktails bar, with glass walls and 7 LED screens)
• Vibe Disco & Club Lounge (teens only)
• It's A Small World Nursery (for 3 months to 3 yo infants and toddlers; reservations required)
• Dream's Oceaneer Club (kids 3-12 yo; with four play areas with themes from Disney films); Dream's Oceaneer Lab (play area for kids 3-12 yo)
• Senses Spa & Fitness Complex (with 17 treatment rooms; 1 Whirlpool; "Rainforest Room"; "Relax Room"; Fitness Centre /health and wellbeing seminars; Beauty Salon)
• Luxurious Spa Villas (two private suites with own hot tub, private verandah, Roman bed with canopy, open-air shower)
• Quiet Cove Pool (adults only pool, served by Cove Bar; with 2 Whirlpools)
• Chill Spa (teens only spa with separate relaxation area and treatment rooms)
• Cove Cafe (adult-only, with big TV screen; Wi-Fi spot)
• Eye Scream Treats Bar (complimentary ice cream, poolside)
• Frozone Treats (iced fruit smoothies bar, poolside)
• Whozits & Whatzits (pool shop for AquaDuck related stuff)
• Donald's Pool; Mickey's Pool
• Nemo's Reef (waterplay kids zone; features characters meetings and greetings)
• Arr-cade (kids/teens video games arcade)
• Waves Bar (family poolside bar)
• Outdoor LED movie screen (24x14 ft)
• Meridian Lounge & Bar (adults-only venue for dinner cocktails)
• Currents Bar (outdoor bar for cold drinks, refreshments, cocktails)
• Edge Lounge (11-14 yo teens-only club area, with a giant video wall, interactive games, Internet)
• Goofy's Sports Deck (Walking Track, Jogging Track, 9-hole Mini Golf Course, Virtual sport games simulators, combined sports court, Ping Pong/Foosball tables)
• Radio Studio (live radio programs for Disney Dream itinerary-related news and onboard events)
• Outlook Bar (retreat area with a piano and full bar; hosts weddings receptions).

Itineraries

Between 2011-2022, Disney Dream's itinerary program was based on short-breaks (3-night and 4-night) roundtrips to The Bahamas departing from Port Canaveral/Orlando Florida . Call port destinations included Castaway Cay (DCL's private Bahamian island) and Nassau .

The ship's last voyage from Port Canaveral was on June 3, 2022 (3-day to Castaway Cay), while the last departure from Port Canaveral was on June 6st, leaving for the new homeport Miami . The first voyage from PortMiami departed on June 7th (4-day maiden voyage). Out of Miami, Disney Dream offers two itineraries: 4-day "Bahamian Cruise" (Nassau and Castaway Cay) and 5-day "Western Caribbean Cruise" ( Grand Cayman and Castaway Cay). Select 7-day Western Caribbean voyages visit Cozumel Mexico, Grand Cayman, Falmouth Jamaica).

In Port Canaveral, Disney Dream was replaced by the new Disney Wish , starting on July 22, 2022.

In 2023, Disney Dream will be homeported (for the first time) in Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale (Florida USA) . The new homeporting (beginning November 2023) follows the European deployment (Mediterranean from Barcelona and Civitavecchia-Rome, and UK-Baltic from Southampton). The new 4- and 5-night itineraries visit ports in The Bahamas (Castaway Cay, Nassau) and Western Caribbean (Cozumel Mexico, Grand Cayman).

Disney Dream - user reviews and comments

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Disney Dream Wiki

The Walt Disney ship Dream is company's third liner, with sistership Disney Fantasy . Each vessel is 40% larger in size than the oldest Disney ships ( Magic and Wonder ). While its capacity (at double occupancy) is 2500, the Dream-y ship of Disney can accommodate up to 4000 passengers at full/max occupancy (all berths).

The vessel (Mayer Neptun yard/hull number 687) is powered by MAN B&W marine diesel engines (3x 12-cyl, 2x 14-cyl) plus diesel generators (3x 14,4 MW, 2x 16,8 MW) with total power output 76,8 MW. The propulsion system is electric (based on two converteam propulsion motors) with total power output 26 MW, plus two FPPs (5-blade Fixed-Pitch Propellers/inward-turning).

The vessel was ordered on February 22, 2007. The design was announced on Oct 29, 2009. Vessel's construction started with the keel-laying ceremony on August 19, 2009. The exterior (hull and superstructure) was completed on June 1, 2010. The ship was launched (floated out from drydock) on October 30, 2010, and paid in full by the shipowner Walt Disney Company on December 8, 2010. Liner's first cruise/maiden voyage was on January 26, 2011. The Bahamian itinerary from homeport Canaveral-Orlando (Florida) visited Nassau and Castaway Island .

The Disney ship Dream has company's classic "ocean liner" design inspired by the 1920s-30s' passenger ships. The hull is painted in navy blue, both funnels are in bright red. The Art Deco-styled Atrium Lobby looks jazzy and elegant, with a huge glass chandelier and the bronze statue of Donald Duck - standing right in front of the marble stairway. Walt Disney's most famous character - Mickey Mouse - can be seen everywhere - in staterooms, artworks, on dinnerware, on railings. The swimming pools are small, but the AquaDuck has the craziest waterslide at sea, with a transparent tube spinning over the ocean. The ship provides numerous regularly scheduled activities for families, kids, teens and adults, and plenty of dining and entertainment options.

On November 6, 2017, on MS Disney Dream was the premiere of the "Beauty and the Beast" musical developed as an exclusive evening production show.

The vessel's last drydock (for regularly scheduled maintenance works) was in 2020 (at Damen Shiprepair Yard in Brest France ).

Accommodations

Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, all reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, ultimate guide to cruising on the disney dream.

They don’t call it the Disney DREAM for nothin’…

The Disney Dream was the third ship to join the ever-expanding Disney Cruise Line fleet. (Seriously… have you heard that the NEW Disney Destiny was just announced ??) The Disney Dream introduced a new class of ships to the line — the Dream Class, of course! And if it’s YOUR dream to sail on this magical ship, then we hope you’ll join us as we explore everything you and your traveling crew need to know about cruising on the Disney Dream!

Disney Dream Overview

The Disney Dream took its Maiden Voyage with passengers on January 26, 2011. The Disney Fantasy, which followed with its first sailing in 2012, is the sister ship to the Disney Dream.

So, in both its size and structure (with 14 Decks and 1,250 Staterooms) and passenger capacity (a whopping 4,000!), it is similar to the Disney Fantasy. That said, each ship boasts some of their own distinguishing features.

These start right in the ship’s Art deco-inspired Atrium, where a golden statue of Admiral Donald Duck himself welcomes you aboard!

Of course, among additional varied features, the ship’s itineraries differ as well…

Disney Dream Destinations

The Disney Dream primarily offers Bahamian cruises departing from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida .

However, the summer of 2024 holds something very unique in store for passengers on the Dream, as the ship is destined for Europe following a Transatlantic voyage from Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona ! Sailings over the summer include Mediterranean (including the Greek Isles), British Isles, Western Europe, and Norwegian Fjords (with one sailing including Iceland) cruises.

When the Dream returns stateside, she’ll depart again from Fort Lauderdale to offer Bahamian and Caribbean cruises, and select sailings will include a stop at Disney Cruise Line’s NEW island destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point (and, of course, Disney Cruise Line’s beloved Castaway Cay )!

Check out Disney Cruise Line’s itineraries for Summer 2025 here!

Disney dream entertainment.

Unique Disney Cruise Line entertainment kicks things off RIGHT AWAY as your cruise starts with a Sailing Away Deck Party!

When I say “unique” that’s because the pals joining you in the entertainment throughout the voyage are none other than Disney characters!

Select sailings also present Disney Cruise Line’s famous Pirate Night (complete with FIREWORKS at sea!). And don’t forget: your CREW is invited to don all the Pirate-y garb you can pack in yer suitcase, matey!

When it comes to entertainment options, Disney Cruise Line is best known for its Broadway-style productions — presented in the Walt Disney Theatre — that tie in characters, beloved stories, and treasured music from the Disney films.

The three shows that guests can enjoy on the Disney Dream are Beauty and the Beast , The Golden Mickeys, and Disney’s Believe.

Currently exclusive to the Disney Dream, Beauty and the Beast brings the “Tale As Old As Time” to you live on stage!

In addition to seeing the characters and hearing the songs you already know and love from the animated film, this production also includes two new pieces written by Alan Menken and Tim Rice from the live-action film.

While Beauty and the Beast puts the focus on one Disney film, Disney’s Believe and The Golden Mickeys bring together oodles and oodles of Disney stories, characters, and signature songs!  In Disney’s Believe , which Disney shares is a “spellbinding musical about a workaholic father who reconnects with his daughter through a little Disney magic,” you’ll see familiar friends from Peter Pan, Aladdin, Cinderella, The Lion King , and The Princess and the Frog.

The Golden Mickeys is “a dazzling tribute to the enchanting movies of Walt Disney” (and it includes a red carpet pre-show!). Featured Disney films include — but aren’t limited to — Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, Mulan, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Toy Story 2.

P.S. You can pay a visit to Preludes before the show to pick up some popcorn (or perhaps a cocktail) to enjoy in the theatre!

Disney Dream Water Features

Passengers of all ages can make a BIG SPLASH on Deck 11 (and even a bit higher…) of the Disney Dream! Let’s start with that part that’s “a bit higher…”

We’re talking about the Aqua Duck , the water coaster that made its debut on the Dream!

To ride, guests enter on Deck 12. From here? As the Disney Cruise Line website shares, you’ll take a 2-person raft on “a wet and wild journey up, down, around and off the side of the ship, through the Forward Funnel—on a daredevil 4-deck drop.”

Be aware, though, that there is a height requirement of 42 inches or taller to ride (and single riders must be at least 54 inches).

Water areas for all ages include Donald’s Pool on Deck 11, as well as a wading pool on Deck 12.

Specifically for the kiddos is Mickey’s Pool , and Nemo’s Reef in particular is a splash area for those 8 and under.

Mickeys Slide , however, can be enjoyed by passengers ages 4 to 14.

The Quiet Cove Pool is reserved for guests over 18 years of age only, as is the Satellite Falls wading pool, complete with a cooling rain curtain. In the same area, adult guests can enjoy a cocktail at the Currents pool bar (the Waves bar is another option), or step inside the Cove Café for a specialty coffee.

Disney Dream Staterooms

The Disney Dream offers four categories of staterooms: Inside, Oceanview, Verandah, and Concierge. Many of the rooms feature Disney’s innovative split bathroom which allows more guests in a cabin the chance to get ready at one time.

While each category boasts amenities such as premium mattresses and linens, a 22″ LCD flat-screen TV, a refrigerator, and a surprising amount of storage space, there are many more details to explore among the varying categories, so we’ve dedicated a page to those options here .

Looking for ALL the Stateroom details for the Disney Dream? Click HERE!

Disney dream dining.

As with all the other ships in the fleet, the Disney Dream presents a wide array of options, starting with a Disney Cruise Line signature: Rotational Dining!

Rotational Dining means that guests have the chance to enjoy dinner at ALL THREE of the ships main dining rooms, each with their own theme and specialty menus on select nights. The best part is that, as you move to a different restaurant each evening, so do your servers! They “rotate” right along with you so they can get to know your group’s dining preferences.

The three Rotational Dining restaurants on the Disney Dream are Animator’s Palate, Enchanted Garden , and Royal Palace.

Animator’s Palate is an innovative restaurant where the show is drawings coming to life on screens all around you. Undersea Magic immerses diners in the world of  Finding Nemo .

Dinner at the Royal Palace features French and continental cuisine in the opulence of the classic Disney fairytales Cinderella, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Sleeping Beauty and Beauty and the Beast.

At Enchanted Garden, guests enjoy their meal as the restaurant changes as flowers bloom and the “sky” fades from day to night.

Be aware that Royal Palace and Enchanted Garden may also serve breakfast and lunch during a sailing, offering guests a full service option if they prefer not to dine buffet or quick service style.

A number of options are available throughout the day, as well. Cabanas hosts a massive buffet for both breakfast and lunch. Help yourself!

Also on Deck 11, several Quick Service options serve classics like burgers, hot dogs, chicken strips and fries, pizza, and healthier fare like salads and sandwiches. These are all available at Flo’s Cafe , which is divided into three different stations: Luigi’s Pizza, Tow Mater’s Grill, and Fillmore’s Favorites.

P.S. Don’t forget to follow up any and all of that with some soft-serve ice cream at Eye Scream Treats!

Additional treats — including scoops from a Gelato Bar —  are available for extra purchase at Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats , a charming spot themed to Disney’s Wreck-It Ralph .

And did you know that ROOM SERVICE is available for breakfast or snacks 24 HOURS A DAY??  The vast majority of items are INCLUDED in the cruise price!

Disney Dream Adult Spaces

In addition to the Quiet Cove mentioned earlier, the Disney Dream offers more areas reserved just for grown-ups. These include the fine dining restaurant, Palo , which may be booked for dinner for an additional charge per adult.

Additionally, the famous Palo Brunch is available for booking during sea days! This option is incredibly popular, so advance booking through your Disney Cruise Line account is recommended.

Be aware, as well, that Palo does have a dress code. The Disney Cruise Line website states: “Formal or semi-formal attire is recommended. Also permitted is dress-casual attire with a polished look, such as dress pants, jeans in good condition, collared shirts, dressy tops and lifestyle shoes. For brunch at Palo and Palo Steakhouse, dress shorts are acceptable. Clothing such as T-shirts, swimwear and sports attire are not permitted.”

The Disney Dream is also home to Remy, another adults only option that adheres to a slightly more strict dress code than Palo: Jackets for men (or collared shirt for brunch) are required and no jeans, shorts, capri pants, sneakers, or open toed shoes.

The cuisine is exceptional French fare and reservations are required.

By the way, before or after your special meal, you might stop at Meridian , a lounge overlooking the back of the ship!

Ready to relax with a drink, or maybe even do a little dancing? Adults can pay a visit to The District , featuring several lounges, each with their own distinct style and atmosphere. District Lounge , for instance, is a relaxing piano bar, while Evolution presents late-night entertainment like dancing, games, karaoke, and comedy shows.

Pink is a Wine and Champagne Bar, while Skyline Lounge immerses you in a “sleek sky bar” boasting views of some of the world’s most iconic skylines!

Meanwhile, sports fans can catch a game at Pub 687. 

Adults might also opt to participate in a Mixology Class or Beverage Tasting Seminar for an extra fee. Featured liqueur and cocktail options include — but aren’t limited to — rum, tequila and margaritas, whiskey, champagne tastings, and more!

Advance booking is highly recommended for these fun and VERY popular opportunities!

The Senses Spa & Salon offers a wide array of services and treatments. (And the Rainforest Room provides an especially relaxing oasis!) Select experiences are available for pre-booking, and you can stop by Senses to inquire about prices for the Rainforest Room and other treatments during your cruise. And the Fitness Center offers workout machines and classes.

And though this is not limited to adults, keep in mind that if you’d like to get a jog or two in, Deck 4 hosts a walking track!

Disney Dream Kids Clubs and Experiences

But what about the kids? Oh, don’t you worry… there are specific areas on the ship dedicated to children, offering experiences tailored for ages from infants to teens!

The It’s a Small World Nursery is available for ages 6 months to 3 years old (save for the Transatlantic cruise, during which the nursery welcomes ages 1 to 3 years old).

Be aware that the Disney Cruise Line website states that “Reservations can be made on a first-come, first-served basis during the open house on Embarkation Day or anytime throughout your cruise. Childcare at “it’s a small world” nursery! is available at an additional fee.” Disney also emphasizes that space is limited.

Meanwhile, Disney’s Oceaneer Club AND Disney’s Oceaneer Lab are available for children ages 3 to 10. The Oceaneer Lab specializes in learning while having FUN!

The Oceaneer Club features activities such as character experiences, storytime, and play areas. (There are also specific guided activities for the littlest ones, ages 3 and 4.)

On the Dream, the Oceaneer Club features the following playful spaces: Andy’s Room (that’s Andy from Toy Story ), the Disney Infinity Game Room, Pixie Hollow , and Star Wars : Millennium Falcon.

Keep in mind that Youth Activities counselors are present at all times in these spaces. Parents will want to know that spaces for your child can be pre-registered via your Disney Cruise Line account, and registration may also take place onboard the ship.

Tweens (ages 11 to 14) can gather at the Edge to hang out, watch movies, play games and make friends during group activities with fun Disney counselors and more. And you want to know something really cool? Edge is located in the ship’s Forward Funnel on Deck 13!

Vibe offers cruisers ages 14 to 17 similar activities geared to their age group, or simply a place to chill. It even boasts its own sun deck on the Dream.

We’ve got one more thing to mention, though it’s not a club, per se. For an extra fee, your little Prince or Princess age 3 to 12 can get a makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique .

Disney Princess, knight, and sea captain-themed packages are available… and there’s an exclusive makeover for Pirate Party Nights!

But we’re STILL not done… because children ages 3-12 can partake in a special tea party with Disney characters. Children get gifts including a jewelry box, tiara, bracelet, necklace, a Cinderella doll, and autograph book. Alternatively they can opt for a package including a cinch bag, sword, shield, pins, Duffy plush, and autograph book. The Disney Cruise Line site will have pricing information available when you book via your Disney Cruise Line account in advance.

Disney Dream Activities

Still want MORE to do 😉 ? That’s good, because the Disney Dream has GOT MORE! D Lounge, for example, is the place to be for family fun with events like game shows and trivia, dance parties,  and more.

Catch a movie on the big screen at the Buena Vista Theatre ! You might choose to watch a Disney animated classic, or maybe a Star Wars or Marvel flick. You never know… your sailing just might feature a first-run Disney feature film at sea! “Funnel Vision” on the pool deck shows movies on the big screen, too.

You can find basketball courts and ping-pong tables on Goofy’s Sports Deck. (My personal favorite option here? It’s 9-hole MINI GOLF!)

Want to explore all sorts of areas on the ship while SOLVING A MYSTERY, to boot? Then get ready to play Midship Detective Agency.  You and your fellow detectives will interact with “enchanted art” in locations all over the ship to gather clues and crack a case wide open! In fact, there are 3 cases to solve (including, but not limited to a MUPPETS-themed caper), so you can play several times — on your own or with your crew — if you like!

And let’s not forget that throughout your cruise, you can meet, hug, get autographs from and pose for pictures with your favorite DISNEY PALS!

Sailing with you are the Fab Five (that’s Mickey and the gang), Disney Princesses, friends from Frozen , and more! Be aware that, while all Character Greetings are included with your cruise, select Greeting times may require advance booking.

Seasonal Sailings

Depending on the time of year, you may find that a special seasonal cruise is in store! For instance, select sailings on the Dream offer a Marvel Day at Sea !

And all ships in the fleet present Halloween on the High Seas in September and October, while Very Merrytime Cruises sail in November and December.

Disney Cruise Line Navigator App

Whew! As you can tell, there’s a LOT happening on the Disney Dream! To keep track of what’s happening when and where, be sure to download the free Disney Cruise Line Navigator app before your cruise.

This is where you can easily find ALL of the activities mentioned throughout this post, book select experiences, check out menus for the ship’s dining locations, and MUCH more!

Join the AllEars.net Newsletter  to get the free list of 50 tips for going on a Disney Cruise! Click here to get started!

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Disney Dream cruise ship review: Mostly magic with a bit of mayhem

TPG's Erica Silverstein accepted a free trip from Disney Cruise Line to cruise on Disney Dream. The opinions expressed below are entirely hers and weren't subject to review by the line.

A Disney Dream cruise is not just for families with young children who love Mickey Mouse and princesses. Disney lovers of all ages, including many couples who choose to get married on board or on the cruise line's private island, will appreciate setting sail in an immersive Disney atmosphere.

A Disney Dream sailing is also attractive to travelers who love a good show, as the ship offers stellar musicals, captivating deck parties and all the movies you can watch from the many Disney-owned production companies (Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and more). Cruisers seeking a more midsize ship, with attentive service and plenty of activities geared toward both kids and adults, will not be disappointed.

Unsurprisingly, Disney Cruise Line does themed sailings well. My five-night Western Caribbean cruise was a Very Merrytime sailing, complete with holiday decorations throughout the ship, seasonal shows and activities, and visits from Santa. Mickey and friends, as well as my fellow passengers, were sporting red and green attire, too. The ship gets equally passionate about Halloween and Marvel-themed sailings.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

A Disney cruise might be a magical experience for some, but Disney Dream isn't perfect. On my cruise, dining venues were crowded and loud, and the lobby atrium and pool deck did not have enough space for all the cruisers who wanted to watch the signature shows. Cruisers looking for varied nightlife might be disappointed that many adults are tied up with childcare at night and unable to venture out to the adults-only bars and lounges.

A cruise aboard Disney Dream is pricey, especially when compared with family-friendly lines such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line . Make sure that Disney Dream is the ship for you by learning everything you need to know about the ship — from its cabins to its restaurants, attractions and activities — as well as my take on where the ship excels and where it misses the mark.

Overview of Disney Dream

The 130,000-ton Disney Dream contains 1,250 cabins and can carry 2,500 passengers at double occupancy and 4,000 at maximum capacity. That makes it small for a family ship when comparing it to Royal Caribbean's family favorite Oasis Class ships. The biggest Oasis Class ship, Wonder of the Seas , for example, measures 236,857 tons — 82% bigger than Disney Dream — and carries 5,734 passengers at double occupancy or 6,988 passengers when full.

The ship also stands apart from competitors in that it defies categorization. The ship would be considered mass-market because it offers a range of cabins from windowless insides through suites, appeals to families, does not focus on gourmet food or high-end finishings, and does not offer all-inclusive fares.

Yet Disney Dream's sailings are priced higher than most family-friendly cruise ships because the Disney brand commands a premium. Plus, you could argue that the service levels are higher and the entertainment is of a higher quality than on Royal Caribbean, Carnival or Norwegian Cruise Line ships.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

So who's on board? Obviously, families with young children make up a large fraction of Disney Dream's passenger base. You'll find babies, kids and teens, as well as three-generation groups and extended family or friend groups. Yet the ship also attracts adults who are Disney fans or appreciate Disney's entertainment and service. It is common for couples to plan onboard weddings or take their honeymoon on a Disney cruise.

Because Disney cruise fares are so high, most Disney Dream passengers are willing to spend money, either because they have a high vacation budget or have saved up for a special trip where they will pull out all the stops. I was surprised how many passengers were paying extra for princess makeovers at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, high-priced Disney paraphernalia from the onboard shops, and souvenir drink and popcorn containers.

The other thing to recognize about Disney Dream is that the kid activities are central and the adult amenities peripheral. The pool deck features several bars, but they are tucked away at the ends of the deck, not set out by the main pool. The sports pub, nightclub and other themed bars are hidden at the back end of Deck 4 in a warren of interconnected rooms that aren't always easy to find, and the adults-only specialty restaurants are relegated to a quiet corner at the top of the ship. There is no casino on board.

Because so many of the adults on board are traveling with children, not all are free to go out at night. So, some adult venues and evening activities can be sparsely populated. (Others generate a larger crowd, though.) On the upside, I did not encounter obviously inebriated folks on this cruise — though that could be because I, like so many adults, was traveling with a child and not often in the adult spaces.

What I loved about Disney Dream

The crew and waiters.

Every cruise line promotes the attentiveness of its crew, but the Disney Dream crew really shined, especially our waiters, who traveled with us from restaurant to restaurant. They quickly learned our preferences, bringing us our preferred drinks as we sat down, giving us butter in addition to the day's dip for the bread and remembering our tea preferences.

Our main waiter, Richard, always had a riddle or magic trick for the kids in his section, and Afandi, our assistant waiter, made origami for the kids each night. They would patiently listen as our 7-year-old companion told them jokes and stories, even though they were busy delivering meals and clearing plates.

Our room steward, Panca, left us towel animals every day and always inquired if there was anything we needed. The kids club counselors were always welcoming and ready to answer any parent questions. The entertainment staff did a great job involving as many kids as possible in the activities and were friendly and patient.

I love a good Broadway show, but the song-and-dance revues featured on so many cruise lines often fall flat. The singing ranges from great to mediocre, and while the costume changes and high-tech effects are cool, the shows don't always have a strong thread connecting the various numbers.

Disney Cruise Line takes a different approach — a more Disney approach, if you will. Disney Dream offers three featured musicals, all with a clear story to tell. Adults can appreciate the strong performances and creative use of costumes and scenery, and kids enjoy seeing some of their favorite characters and stories come to life on stage.

This was especially true of the ship's version of "Beauty and the Beast," an abridged version of the story based on the live-action movie. Kids and adults alike were riveted in their seats for an hour and a half, and the performances were stellar, with some of the actors even hailing from Broadway.

The only downside to the shows being so good is that you never want to miss one. That meant my friend and I never sent her daughter to the kids club after dinner, which would have allowed us to enjoy one of the ship's bars and an after-dinner cocktail together.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Palo brunch

I'd heard from many people that brunch at Palo was amazing, and the experience did not disappoint. If you can sneak away for a couple hours, it's a lovely way to enjoy a relaxed, quiet, kid-free meal without missing one of the featured rotational restaurants. It's also good value, leading some people to claim it's the best $50 you can spend on a Disney cruise .

Our waiter, Victor, was as handsome and charming as any Disney prince. He brought us passionfruit mimosas when my friend said she didn't care for orange juice. We started the meal with a bread basket, and the almond croissants were the best I'd ever had, warm and flaky with a delicious almond filling that elevated the pastry.

The menu is so varied that it's hard to choose. Winners included poached eggs with spinach, asparagus and mornay sauce and the goat cheese flatbread. The mushroom ravioli fell flat, but that was OK because I was getting pretty full by then. The chocolate hazelnut dessert was thankfully small because I only had room for a few delectable bites.

My tip: Book an early brunch, and don't eat anything beforehand. You will definitely want to arrive hungry and with a very empty stomach.

Family-friendly cabins

Disney really thought about what families need in a living space when it designed the cabins on its ships, including Disney Dream. As a mom who has cruised with kids since they were babies, I understand the unique challenges families face when sharing a small cabin together. Disney does, too, and has created cabins to eliminate some of those challenges.

It starts with the split bathrooms, one with sink and toilet and the other with sink and shower. That means two can brush their teeth at once, and if a little person suddenly has to go potty when Daddy is in the shower, it's not a problem.

The cabins have plentiful storage space with lots of drawers because little kid clothing does not fit on grown-up hangers. Our cabin host even left a kid-size bathrobe in the closet, along with the two adult-size ones.

There's a dim light on the ceiling of the room's living area where kids will sleep in sofabeds and pulldown bunks to serve as a nightlight. A floor-to-ceiling curtain can extend across the entire room to separate the kids' sleeping areas from the adults. This way, adults can have the lights on in their section of the room after bedtime.

Even the balconies have childproof locks high up on the door, so you can prevent kiddos from sneaking onto the veranda without adult supervision.

What I didn't love about Disney Dream

Crowds and queues.

Disney does not get everything magically right, unfortunately. One way its ships resemble its parks is in the crowds and wait times for nearly everything.

I was dismayed at how much time we spent on this cruise waiting around. Sometimes, it was waiting in the always-long lines for a meet-and-greet and photo opp with characters or to drop off or pick up kids at the Oceaneer Club. I waited 40 minutes on a sea-day afternoon to ride the AquaDuck, and there was no entertainment in that line, as there might be at a Disney park water attraction.

Any show we wanted to see involved arriving early to get seats, occasionally waiting in line to enter the theater. Show up late to one of the Pirate Night shows or any of the events in the atrium lobby, and you will have terrible sightlines and be unable to see much of the show.

The ship also felt small for the number of people it carried, possibly because of bad design and passenger flow. Unless you go very early or late, the pool deck and its two pools are insanely crowded. Even the dining rooms felt like tables were pushed extremely close together, and it was so loud that I often had to raise my voice or lean across the table to converse with my tablemates. Walking through crowded areas was also tricky since kids would veer unpredictably while ambling slowly, so it was hard to get by; both parents and kids would block stairwells or corridors.

The crowding did make the adult areas feel like a respite. Still, the Quiet Cove sun deck and pool area fill up.

Nightlife district

The majority of Disney Dream's indoor bars and adult lounge areas are grouped together in a warren of interconnected rooms at the back of Deck 4. The District is meant to be a happening nightlife area, but I found it to be more of a dark, confusing afterthought.

I liked the vibe in the pub, with comfy seating and windows to the outside, and the whimsical Champagne bar Pink with its bubbles and corset theming. But the other bars were dark and not necessarily inviting. There was one bar, Skyline, that I could not find until I got turned around in a stairwell and happened upon it.

Related: 5 reasons why Disney cruises aren't just for kids

A member of the ship's entertainment team told me that evening adult events were hit or miss as far as attendance goes. It makes sense — I found that by the time I ate dinner and attended the show, it was time to put my friend's kid to bed. I could have ditched them to hang out in a bar on my own, but that wasn't an attractive option.

Disney Dream cabins and suites

The cabins and suites on Disney Dream were designed with families in mind, more so than on nearly every other cruise ship afloat. Cabins come in various categories, with many that can sleep families of three or four. Most have a split bathroom design, with two half baths; one contains a toilet and sink, the other a sink and shower (or shower-tub combo).

My cabin was a balcony room that could accommodate three, with a queen-size bed and a sofa that flips into a twin bed. I was dismayed to discover that, unlike every other ocean-going cruise ship I've sailed, the queen bed did not split into two twins. This forced my friend and I to share a bed. (Cabins that can sleep four will have a pull-down bunk above the sofa bed.)

The room is split in two by a floor-to-ceiling height, full-width blackout curtain, so we could put my friend's daughter to bed on the couch, turn off the lights on her side of the room and then read in bed with the lights on. One downside of this arrangement is that the small flat-screen TV is in the living area, not the bedroom, so we couldn't watch a late-night movie. Another downside: The blackout curtains effectively turned the adult sleeping area into an inside cabin with no natural light.

In addition to the sofa bed, the cabin's living area features a desk with two 110V and one 220V outlets, three deep drawers (perfect for storing kid clothing), a minifridge, the aforementioned TV, an open cabinet with two narrow shelves, a closed cabinet with two tall shelves and a mirror. One of the many light switches by the desk turns on a dim overhead light that can be used as a nightlight. A low-backed chair can be positioned at the desk or turned around to face the coffee table when dining in your cabin.

The master bed is flanked by two small nightstands, each with one drawer, and reading lamps. Only one side of the bed has a 110V and 220V outlet; the other has the cabin's phone. The closet is divided into two sections, both with hanging space and some open shelves. Adjacent is a shelving unit with three deep drawers and a tall two-shelf open cabinet above. The bed is high enough for suitcases, or your small child, to fit underneath.

I found the storage perfectly adequate for two adults and a child on a five-night cruise, and the room could likely handle belongings for a seven-night or longer cruise, as well.

The narrow balcony features two metal and mesh upright chairs and a round metal drinks table. It has a childproof lock you can choose to use to prevent little cruisers from venturing out on the balcony unattended.

The bathroom with the toilet and sink offers three small glass shelves for storing toiletries; the shower room has two. Our bathroom had a tub/shower combo, and at 6 feet tall, I came close to hitting my head on the ceiling; I could not wash my hair without removing the wand showerhead from its holder and reaching it up as far its cord would go.

Each bathroom comes with a refillable hand soap dispenser; the shower room also offers bar soap and refillable containers of Disney brand shampoo, conditioner and shower gel in the tub. You'll find tissue dispensers in each. The shower room has a full-length mirror on the back of the door, which is useful, but this means there are no hooks on the door to hang extra items. There are, however, two retractable clotheslines in the shower and two large hooks on the wall between the bathroom and the sleeping area.

Less expensive cabins are either windowless insides with "magical portholes" (round video screens set in a window frame that display images from outside the ship with some cameos from animated characters) or ocean-view rooms with a round porthole window that does not open.

Higher-tier cabins include Concierge-level cabins and suites that grant you access to the exclusive Concierge lounge and sun deck on decks 12 and 13, respectively. These rooms come in three styles: a balcony cabin, a one-bedroom suite and a Royal Suite, all with private verandas. They come with upgraded amenities and privileges, such as included Wi-Fi, a pillow menu, feather duvets and priority for check-in and debarkation, tendering and reservations.

Wheelchair-accessible cabins come in nearly every cabin category except the Royal Suite.

Related: The 3 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

Disney Dream restaurants and bars

The Disney dining experience is a bit different than what you might have experienced on other cruise ships . The line employs a "rotational dining" system in which you choose early or late seating (5:45 and 8:15 p.m. on my sailing). Then, each night, you are assigned to one of three restaurants each evening. You "rotate" through all the options during the course of your cruise, and your waiters move with you. This way, you can build a rapport, and they can get to know your dining preferences.

Disney Dream does not offer a buffet alternative at dinner, though you can order room service or pick up burgers and chicken tenders at Tow Mater's Grill on the pool deck. If you choose these options or if the adults in your party make a reservation at the adults-only specialty restaurants, Palo and Remy, you might miss out on one of the themed main dining room experiences.

Restaurants

Overall, the food on Disney is fine, but the emphasis is less on impressive food and more on creating an experience that children will enjoy. The waiters work hard, not only taking orders and serving food, but cutting up food for kids or entertaining them with riddles and origami.

Each of the three main restaurants serves its own menu, but on some nights, each menu will serve the same menu, such as the "welcome aboard" menu on night one and a Caribbean-themed menu on pirate night. Every menu is divided into appetizers, soups and salads, main courses, vegetarian options, lighter options and dessert (which always includes an ice cream sundae and a sugar-free option).

The kids menu varies nightly, but is the same at each restaurant on any given day. It's divided into appetizers (a different soup each night and a garden salad), mains (macaroni and cheese, mini burgers, pizza and a changing option such as kid-sized surf and turf) and Disney Check Meals (combo dinners served with a main such as baked cod or penne pasta, a vegetable and fruit).

Mickey ice cream bars are the favorite dessert here; ice cream is also available, as well as a changing dessert such as a chocolate brownie with ice cream or white chocolate cheesecake.

Related: Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock when setting sail with Mickey

Unlike the venues on Disney's newer ships, the three main restaurants on Disney Dream have less of a theatrical aspect to them, though all are themed.

The design of the Enchanted Garden restaurant on Deck 2 was inspired by the Gardens of Versailles, and its menu claims to be market-style and international. Try the ahi tuna and avocado tower as a starter and the scallops or the prime rib for your main. The signature pecan tart was a nod to Thanksgiving on a Christmas-themed cruise.

Right above the Enchanted Garden on Deck 3 is the Royal Palace, inspired by four princesses — Cinderella, Snow White, Belle and Aurora (Sleeping Beauty). See if you can find iconic images from their stories around the dining room. Dinner here is the perfect time to wear your princess dress to dinner or dress up a little.

The menu is French, with starters like escargot and baked brie. Mains include duck breast, rack of lamb and Chateaubriand-roasted steak. For dessert, consider the grand marnier souffle or the apple tart tartin.

Royal Palace was also the sit-down option for breakfast and lunch on our cruise. Breakfast offers a nice selection of fruit and yogurt, breakfast pastries and egg and griddle options. A kids menu features fun-sized versions of eggs, pancakes, Mickey waffles and yogurt with fruit. Signature adult breakfasts include a savory power crepe, a plant-based hot breakfast for the vegans among us, southern hash and brioche French toast.

Most families stick to casual options for lunch, but if you want a sit-down, multicourse meal, the Royal Palace is there for you. The lunch menu is split into a choice of soups and salads, small plates (such as beef satay skewers or tomato and mozzarella bruschetta), chef's recommendations (churrasco steak, spiced cod fillet), burgers (including a turkey burger and Impossible burger), pasta, a handful of kid-friendly options and dessert (typically one is a sundae). Sit-down lunch is a great option on embarkation day when you don't want to drag your bags around a crowded buffet.

Animator's Palate, on Deck 3 aft (essentially behind the Royal Palace), is the night to experience dinner with a show. Video screens around the animation-themed restaurant come to life with characters from "Finding Nemo" and "Finding Dory," with a surprising interactive element. I enjoyed the butternut squash soup, ginger-teriyaki beef tenderloin and the cookies and cream sundae for dessert.

I generally found the three main restaurants loud, with tables spaced extremely close together. (At Animator's Palate, our table was separated from the next by the width of the ice bucket for our bottle of Prosecco.) Dinners are not relaxing events, even though the waiters are outstanding, keeping the kids entertained with riddles, magic tricks and origami.

Perhaps that is why Disney Dream's two specialty restaurants are exclusive to adults over 18. They offer a nice break for the grown-ups in the group to have a quieter, more upscale meal in a less crowded setting. Both the French Remy and Italian Palo are on Deck 12, separated by the Meridian Bar.

Palo is open for brunch on sea days and dinner daily, both for $50 per person. Brunch is a highlight and a great value for all the food they give you. The meal starts with a complimentary Prosecco or mimosa and a bread basket that includes not-to-be-missed warm almond croissants.

Then you can choose as many breakfast or lunch entrees as you'd like; the poached eggs with spinach, asparagus and mornay sauce and the goat cheese flatbread (pizza) were standouts from our brunch. You can also select from frittatas, waffles and pancakes, and mains like lasagna Bolognese, sirloin steak, veal and parmesan-crusted chicken breast.

After you've completely stuffed yourself, the waiters have the audacity to offer dessert. We sampled the warm amaretto chocolate fondant and the limoncello torte; while tasty, they were definitely not necessary to complete your meal.

For dinner in Palo, choose from the $50 fixed-price menu (a four-course meal with limited options for each), upgrade to the wine-paired menu or order a la carte from the full menu. The chocolate souffle dessert is the signature sweet and should be ordered at the beginning of the meal.

Remy is one of the most expensive specialty restaurants at sea, with menus by acclaimed chefs Scott Hunnel (from Victoria & Albert's at Walt Disney World Resort) and Arnaud Lallement (of Michelin star fame). Disney Dream offers two set menus, one by each chef, for $135 per person, with wine and Champagne pairings for an additional $120 and $160, respectively. You can also order a la carte.

For casual dining, Disney Dream does offer a buffet option on the Deck 11 pool deck. Cabanas serves breakfast and lunch only. In the morning, you'll find all the staples: eggs, breakfast meat, pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, pancakes and the famous Mickey waffles. An omelet station is tucked away at the back.

At lunch, you can find pizza and burgers, an array of hot entrees, soup, premade salads, a huge stash of shrimp and crab legs, pasta, deli meat and desserts (including ice cream). Look for themed sections that change daily.

I found Cabanas to have a nice variety of dishes (and the creamiest steam tray scrambled eggs I've had on a cruise to date). However, the layout is awful. The buffet is all one line, rather than station-based, and there is not a lot of room to walk around the venue. The result is that lines are long, and it's tricky to navigate through (say, if you're walking from the beverage station back to your table). This is especially true if you get stuck behind slow-moving, unpredictable small children who are somehow impossible to get around.

Related: Cruise ship buffet taboos: 10 things you should never do at mealtime

Unlike other mass-market cruise ships, Disney Dream offers free soda with meals and from beverage stations along the pool deck sides and in Cabanas (where you'll also find water, juice, coffee, tea and hot chocolate). Bring your own refillable drink containers to avoid waste because the poolside stations only offer paper cups, not reusable glasses and mugs.

For a snack or simpler meal, a trio of food counters, collectively known as Flo's Cafe, on the opposite end of the pool deck from Cabanas offers all the kid favorites. Luigi's Pizza serves up five types of pie daily; Tow-Mater's Grill cooks up burgers, chicken, hot dogs and sausages, plus chicken tenders and French fries; and Fillmore's Favorites serves a range of paninis, wraps, salads and fruit bowls. Be aware that while these venues are open all afternoon, only Tow-Mater's is open for dinner; Luigi's Pizza opens again at 9 p.m. for late-night snacks.

Poolside treats include the Eye Scream station with three soft-serve machines pumping out multiple flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, banana and strawberry. Frozone Treats next door offers extra-fee smoothies and refreshing drinks with and without alcohol (such as Dole Whip with a shot of rum).

Room service is complimentary on Disney Dream. You can order continental breakfast items by marking off your selections on a tag and hanging it outside your door before bed. All-day room service is available for order via phone; the menu is on the Navigator app. Selections include soups, salads, American fare (buffalo wings, burgers, chicken tenders), pizza and pasta and dessert. Mickey bars are not on the official room service menu, but can be ordered to your cabin.

If the free treats on this ship aren't enough (which is a concept that's difficult to grasp), you can splurge at Vanellope's Sweet Treats. Indulge with extra-fee ice cream and gelato, crazy sundaes, cupcakes and other baked goods and candy.

Outside the Walt Disney Theatre on Deck 3 is Preludes, where you can buy snacks (popcorn, candy) and drinks to bring into the theater. A secondary outpost of Preludes is outside the Buena Vista Theater on Deck 4.

Parents, be prepared: The pervasive smell of popcorn will have your littles desperate for a snack, and the only way to access popcorn is by purchasing a souvenir popcorn bucket on the first night. The buckets range from $8 to more than $20, but refills are only $1.50.

On a ship where sodas and ice cream bars are complimentary, I was surprised the line charged for popcorn.

On a ship full of kids, it's understandable that adults might need a grown-up beverage or two. Disney Dream accommodates, but the bars are less front and center than perhaps you'd find on other cruise ships.

On Deck 3, the Bon Voyage bar is tucked to one side of the midship elevator banks, between the Grand Lobby and the shopping area. It's in a crowded thoroughfare, so it lacks ambience.

Tucked into a corner on Deck 4 is the Vista Cafe for all your coffee drinks, regular or spiked. It also has a small case of snacks to go with your latte or mocha.

Related: Best cruise ship bars

The District, on Deck 4 aft, is the adult nightlife area, though it's used during the day to host events such as trivia. Grouped together are Pink, a wine and Champagne bar; Evolution, the nightclub and event space; Pub 687, the sports and game bar; Skyline, for bougie martinis with a changing cityscape behind the bar; and the District Lounge for hanging out, sometimes with live music. The District is a dark warren of interconnected rooms, so I only found the Skyline bar halfway through my cruise.

You won't find crowds here, as many adults will be at the family activities in the evening or stuck in their cabins after their kids go to sleep. Fun competitive games, trivia contests, and karaoke in Evolution did get a good-sized audience, but you'll rarely need to search for a seat at any of the venues.

If you're interested in Disney Dream nightlife and are traveling with younger kids, I recommend cruising with extended family or friends; this way, each adult can take turns staying with sleeping children while the others go out. Alternatively, put your kids in Oceaneer Club after dinner and the show, but not every child wants to stay up that late or leave their family for the club.

A buffet of finger foods is put out for an hour each evening to help soak up all that alcohol.

On the upper decks, the Cove Cafe is half coffee shop, half bar by the Quiet Cove adult pool. Grownups don't have to get out of the water to order drinks at the swim-up Cove Bar adjacent to the pool. Forward of the adults area, a juice bar in the Senses Spa will kick start your day or refresh you after a workout with fresh juice blends.

Additional pool bars include the Waves Bar on Deck 12 and the Currents Bar on Deck 13.

Also on Deck 12, the Meridian bar is the perfect place for a pre-dinner cocktail before a meal in the adjacent Remy or Palo. It has both indoor and outdoor seating and is a lovely getaway from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the ship. Passengers booked into Concierge-level cabins can also get drinks at their exclusive Concierge Lounge also on Deck 12.

Disney Dream activities

Disney cruise ships offer a mix of typical and unique-to-Disney activities. Perhaps the most Disney thing you can do on Disney Dream is meet your favorite Disney characters and princesses.

Families have three options: You can sign up for free Royal Gatherings, where you can meet multiple princesses at one time, or extra-fee events, such as the Royal Court Royal Tea. You can look up on the Navigator app when characters will be making appearances and line up for a photo opp and to get an autograph. You'll often find the characters posing in the Grand Lobby or on the balcony just above. Or, you can serendipitously run into a character wandering about the ship.

Even your kids who think they're too cool for Mickey or princess photos will likely become starstruck when they see the characters around the ship and ultimately want a photo or two.

Most kid-friendly activities occur in the multiple Disney cruise kids clubs on board. Most are clustered on Deck 4, where you'll find the It's a Small World Nursery for baby and toddler (up to age 3) daycare for an hourly rate. The Oceaneer Club and Lab offer complimentary drop-off activities for kids ages 3-10. Kids will love flying the Millennium Falcon, playing in Andy's Room, competing in Magic PlayFloor challenges and making crafts in Tinkerbell's Fairy Hollow.

Also on Deck 4 is the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where families can pay for a range of princess, prince and pirate makeovers for young cruisers. If you decide to splurge, choose your salon times wisely. You might not want to get makeup and an updo at 9 a.m. and then be unable to go into the pool for the rest of the day.

Tweens (ages 11-14) have their own hangout called Edge with video games, movies, crafts and group activities in the fake forward funnel on Deck 13. Teens (14-17) can enjoy an indoor lounge with snack bar, video game and movie space, plus a teen-only outdoor sun deck with a plunge pool and hot tub. Vibe, as it's called, is all the way forward on Deck 5, with a secret entrance from the Deck 4 outdoor promenade.

A range of family activities, from crafts to karaoke and dance parties, take place in the D Lounge on Deck 4. (Don't confuse it with the District Lounge next door, which is a bar in the adults-only area.) Some activities are held in the atrium lobby, including the hilarious Jack Jack's Diaper Dash (ie, crawling baby races). Evolution is the destination for evening adult activities, such as trivia, interactive competitions and karaoke.

The other major family-focused destination is, of course, the pool deck. Disney Dream has options for all ages and interests. Deck 11 midship is the main pool area with Mickey's pool and slide (the latter meant for ages 3-14) and the Goofy pool. Life jackets are available for kids who aren't strong swimmers.

A giant poolside screen shows Disney movies during both daytime and evening. Pools are open late so you can watch the evening film from the water. The pool area stage is where the welcome/sailaway show and Pirate's Night shows take place.

The Nemo's Reef splash area is intended for supervised splashing for junior cruisers in swim diapers, though youngsters of all ages are welcome. There is a hot tub by the kids pool, but it's generally full of kids.

Don't worry, Mom and Dad: Adults have their own pool deck, forward on Deck 11. The Quiet Cove pool and hot tub are exclusive to adults over 18 and are surrounded by a swim-up bar, adults-only coffee shop and lounge spaces.

Two decks up, the Satellite Falls pool and sun deck provides additional sunbathing space and a wading pool with a circular rain curtain under the ship's satellite transmitter. A sun deck exclusive to Concierge-level guests is also found on Deck 13.

Between the two on Deck 12 forward is a small family area with the Funnel Puddle plunge pool.

The pool area's other main attraction is the AquaDuck two-person raft slide that circles the entire pool deck. You must be 42 inches to ride and 54 inches to ride alone or with a smaller person. The ride has some thrills but is fairly tame. Sea-day afternoon wait times can be long (upward of 40 minutes). Ride after dark, and you'll hardly wait at all.

The entrance and exit from the AquaDuck are adjacent to each other on Deck 12, right above Nemo's Reef. I say this so you won't loop the decks multiple times looking for it.

On the opposite side of the ship on Deck 13 is Goofy's Sports Deck for all your athletic or competitive pursuits. A central sports court with basketball hoops is surrounded by a wacky minigolf course, ping pong tables and foosball.

Your running and walking track, however, will be the Deck 4 promenade. You'll find padded wooden lounge chairs here, as well as shuffleboard courts.

If you need some serious pamper time, head to the Senses Spa and Salon on Deck 11 forward. A salon offers mani-pedis and hair styling, or you can book a massage or facial in one of the spa treatment rooms. Couples treatments include various massages as well as time in one of two couples' villas, and teen services are also available.

A fitness center is stocked with resistance machines, free weights, yoga mats and cardio machines with ocean views, plus group class space for spin and core classes. You can also book a pass to the Rainforest Room thermal suite for access to relaxing saunas and steam rooms.

If retail therapy is more your style, you'll find an array of shops on decks 3 and 4, selling all kinds of character-based souvenirs and toys, Disney Cruise Line logo items, fine jewelry and sundries. The Whozits and Whatzits shop on Deck 11 sells swim and beach items in case you forgot something at home. If you plan on splurging, consider packing a foldable duffle that you can fill with all your souvenirs for the trip home.

Related: Tricks to save money on a Disney cruise

Disney Dream shows

Disney Cruise Line is known for its original Broadway-style musical shows. Disney Dream's trio of original productions include "The Golden Mickeys," "Beauty and the Beast" and "Disney's Believe." These are performed in the Walt Disney Theatre on decks 3 and 4. Your showtime is opposite your mealtime; if you have an early dinner, you'll see the late show and vice versa.

"The Golden Mickeys" is a Disney's version of an awards show, honoring the bravest heroes and the most dastardly villains. The show combines video clips with live performances of favorite songs from Disney movies.

"Disney Believe" is another original musical featuring a single dad who goes on a journey to regain his belief in magic. Along the way, he encounters characters from a wide selection of Disney movies, who guide him on his journey with song and dance.

The ship's marquee show, which runs 1 and 1/2 hours rather than an hour, is a stage adaptation of "Beauty and the Beast," based on the live-action movie. The show employs creative use of puppetry and high-tech scenery, and the performers are stellar. (Some even have Broadway backgrounds.) On our sailing, this show also has a matinee performance to accommodate more guests.

The Walt Disney Theatre has both orchestra and balcony seating. Be careful of poles and railings that can block views from the balcony. Sit in the front section of the orchestra if you want confetti to rain down on you during certain performances.

Disney Dream does not have just one theater. The Buena Vista Theatre on decks 4 and 5 is the ship's movie cinema, showing first-run movies from Disney-owned production studios. That means if the film is currently showing in the movie theaters on land, you can watch it for free while you're at sea.

Disney Cruise Line is also famous for its Pirate Night, a shipwide pirate-themed party, complete with pirate-themed games, trivia and kids activities; a special pirate-themed, island-inspired dinner menu in every restaurant; and two pirate shows on the pool deck stage. The early show stars Pirate Mickey and friends and is geared for younger cruisers; the later, all-ages show features Jack Sparrow and culminates in a fireworks display.

Nearly everyone on board, from babies to grandparents, gets into the pirate spirit, dressing up in looks ranging from simple DIY outfits with a few accessories to head-to-toe professional costumes, complete with wigs. Even if your kids think they're too cool, pack some pirate attire because you will feel left out of the fun if you're not in costume.

Another hot tip: The pool deck cannot handle the number of people who turn out for these shows. Arrive a good half hour early to stake out a spot with decent sightlines, and be prepared to potentially hold your child up the entire time if you're standing in the back. Also, plan for an afternoon nap, if your young kid wants to see fireworks. The show starts after 10 p.m.

On our five-night cruise, Pirate Night took place on a night when a performance one of the three musicals was not occurring. On that night, the main stage screened the newest Disney movie, so more people could watch. On the remaining night, a guest magician performed.

If you like shows, keep an eye out for short performances listed in the daily schedule on the app. Early in the sailing, Mickey and friends did a Christmas tree lighting event, complete with a Santa visit. One evening, the Broadway actor who plays Gaston in the ship's theater did a half-hour one-man show, performing numbers from the Disney songbook.

Disney Dream itineraries and pricing

Disney Dream will offer a series of three-, four- and five-night Bahamas and Caribbean cruises out of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, through early May 2024. Ports of call in the Bahamas include Nassau and Castaway Cay, Disney's longtime private island. Caribbean cruises include Grand Cayman or Cozumel, Mexico.

The ship then crosses the Atlantic for a summer season in Europe. From May through mid-July, it will offer five- to 11-night Mediterranean cruises out of Barcelona and Civitavecchia (the port for Rome), Italy.

It will then reposition to Southampton, England (near London), where it will sail two Scandinavian fjords cruises; several three- to seven-night Europe Coastal and southern Europe cruises to ports in Spain, France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands; and one British Isles cruise before crossing the Atlantic back to Florida.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Disney Cruise Line ship

The ship returns to Fort Lauderdale from October 2024 through May 2025, again offering three- to five-night Caribbean and Bahamas sailings. This time, certain itineraries include Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney's new private destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas.

Fares vary by season, cruise destination and theme, as well as cabin category. Expect the least expensive windowless inside cabins to start at more than $200 per person, per night, based on double occupancy.

On Disney's website, three-night Bahamas cruises start from $1,733 for a couple. Five-night Western Caribbean cruises start at $2,437 per couple, and a seven-night Western Europe cruise starts at $4,427 per couple. Fares increase from there for cabins with balconies or suites, as well as for adding additional guests sharing the cabin.

A family of four would pay upward of $5,859 for a Concierge-level cabin on a three-night Bahamas cruise, for example.

Related: I saved every receipt — here's how much it actually costs to go on a Disney cruise

What to know before you go

Required documents.

U.S. citizens sailing Disney Dream from Port Canaveral will need either a passport or a government-issued photo ID and an original birth certificate. Children can sail with either a passport or a birth certificate. However, for Disney Dream's summer European sailings, including the transatlantic crossings, everyone traveling (including babies) will need a passport.

If you're sailing with a child who is not your own, you will need to fill out a form certifying that you have permission from their parents to travel with them. Passports, when required, must be valid for at least six months. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Related: Tips for getting a child's passport

Disney Cruise Line charges a crew gratuity of $14.50 per person (including babies and children) per day for most cruisers and $15.50 per person for Concierge-level cabins and suites.

You can prepay this amount, or it will be added to your onboard bill. If you have not prepaid, you can adjust the amount up or down at guest services or give additional tips in cash. The hardworking crew relies on these gratuities; even if you have service snafus, we strongly encourage you to pay the full amount and express your dissatisfaction in another fashion.

To give an idea of the cost, a four-person family on a five-night cruise in a standard cabin would pay $290 in recommended tips. The amount is split among your team of dining room servers who kept your kids entertained at dinner and your cabin host who cleaned up your mess each day.

An 18% gratuity is added to onboard spa, bar, beverage, wine and deck service tabs. You can always add an additional gratuity for any of your services or servers.

While room service is free, it's customary to add a few dollars of tip when you sign the "bill."

A gratuity is added to bills at Palo and Remy because those servers are not included in the automatic gratuity. Leave an additional tip if you enjoyed the service. If you stay in a Concierge-level room or suite, it is customary to tip the Concierge Lounge hosts $8 per person, per day, at the end of your cruise.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships

Disney Dream offers various Wi-Fi packages for a fee.

On my sailing, you could choose from three Wi-Fi packages and pay per 24 hours or per voyage. The Stay Connected package gives access to just Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. It costs $18 for 24 hours for one device or $16/day for the full voyage (so $80 for a five-night sailing like mine).

The Classic Surf package gives access to the entire web, email and audio calling. The 24-hour price for one device is $28; the full-cruise cost is $24/day ($120 for a five-night sailing).

The Premium Surf package gives the same access as the Classic but with the addition of streaming services like YouTube, Snapchat and video calling. It costs $42 for 24 hours on one device or $34/day for the voyage ($170 for a five-night cruise).

For any of the plans, you can purchase full-cruise packages for up to four devices, with a 20% discount for each additional device. There is no discount for a multiple-device package for 24 hours. You can purchase a full-cruise package in the middle of your vacation, and the price will be prorated for the number of days left.

If you're deciding how many devices to add to your package, know that you can switch your plan from device to device throughout the cruise. For example, if you purchase a one-device plan, you can switch the service from your phone to your tablet then back to your phone. However, if you need a connection on your tablet and phone at the same time, you will need a two-device plan.

On my Caribbean cruise, I had no problems using the Navigator app or texting, and my travel companions made several Wi-Fi calls using our Premium Surf package. However, loading webpages and uploading photos on my laptop was often slow.

Carry-on drinks policy

Each passenger 21 years and older can bring a maximum of two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne (no larger than 750 milliliters) or six beers (no larger than 12 ounces) on board both at the beginning of the cruise and at each port of call. Not every cruise line allows you to bring drinks back from port without confiscating them, so take advantage of this generous alcohol policy .

On embarkation day, beverages must be packed in your carry-on (not checked) bags. You can keep drinks chilled in the small fridge in your cabin or ask your stateroom host for ice.

If you wish to consume wine or Champagne that you've brought on board in one of the dining rooms, you must pay a $26 corkage fee per bottle.

Smoking policy

Smoking is permitted in the following onboard locations only:

• The portside outdoor area of the Meridian Lounge on Deck 12
• The portside deck area on Deck 13 aft by the Currents Bar
• The aft port side of the Deck 4 outdoor promenade, but only from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Passengers caught smoking in their cabins or on their cabin balconies will be charged a $250 cleaning fee.

Disney Dream offers 24-hour, self-service guest laundry facilities on Decks 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. They are not marked on the deck plans on the app, but they are shown on each floor's deck plan by the stairwell and signs in the cabin hallways point the way. On most decks, they are located all the way forward or aft.

Use your Key to the World cruise card to pay to operate the washers and dryers, as well as buy any detergent or dryer sheets you need. Laundry rooms are also stocked with irons and ironing boards for complimentary use; they are the only place on board where you're allowed to use an iron.

If you really don't want to do chores on your vacation, you can send out your dirty laundry for washing, pressing or dry cleaning for an additional fee. Use the laundry bag and form in your cabin and your cabin attendant will pick up and return your clothes.

Electrical outlets

All cabins are equipped with 110-volt outlets, which are standard in the U.S. and Canada, and 220-volt (European) outlets by the desk and on one side of the bed. A shaver-only outlet is located on the ceiling of the bathroom.

The currency on Disney Cruise Line ships is the U.S. dollar.

When you are on the ship, you will not need cash or a credit card — all incidentals, purchases and services will be charged to your cabin folio. Your Key to the World card serves as your onboard payment method. The only exception is if you want to tip a crew member in cash.

You will want to have some cash or a credit card for purchases in port. The exception is Castaway Cay, where cruisers can pay for all purchases at the shops and bars with their cruise cards; cash and credit cards are not accepted on Disney's private island.

Drinking age

The drinking age on board Disney Dream is 21. However, if you're sailing on one of Dream's round-trip cruises within Europe, where the drinking age is lower, parents and guardians can sign a form to allow 18- to 20-year-olds to drink on board when in the presence of an adult in their traveling party.

Daytime dress is casual; shorts, T-shirts and casual sundresses are the norm on Bahamas and Caribbean sailings. Many of your shipmates will be dressed in Mickey ears, Disney-themed attire, princess dresses or group T-shirts at all times.

During the evenings, dining attire in the three main dining restaurants is "cruise casual," meaning no swimwear or tank tops, but you don't have to dress up in anything fancy. That said, many guests do dress up in the evening, but it's not required unless you are dining in Palo or Remy. (Palo also asks that diners dress up a bit for brunch, so come prepared.)

Our five-night cruise had one optional dress-up night, and we were also told that it's fun to change into something a bit fancier (or perhaps a princess costume) when dining at the Royal Palace restaurant.

The dress code on Pirate Night is, of course, pirate casual. Bring your bandanas and eye patches, but leave your swords and pistols at home.

On Halloween and Very Merrytime Christmas cruises, costumes and holiday attire are encouraged — and make for great photos.

Related: The ultimate Disney cruise packing list

Bottom line

Disney Dream offers an amazing experience for families with children and Disney lovers of all ages. The ship stands out for its family-friendly cabins, attentive crew and stellar musical shows. You will be able to meet many of your favorite Disney characters and immerse yourself in the world of Disney.

However, you need to be prepared for crowds and queues, loud dinners, other people's children and myriad extra-fee events, treats and souvenirs that will tempt everyone in your travel party. Come with the right mindset, and you'll have a magical trip your family will remember fondly.

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• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
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• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

• Disney parks and attractions
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Disney Cruise Line

• View history

Disney Cruise Line is a cruise line operation owned by The Walt Disney Company and headquartered in Celebration , Florida . The business is run by President Thomas Mazloum, as part of the Disney Experiences division.

The Disney Cruise Line currently operates five cruise ships, the Disney Magic , the Disney Wonder , the Disney Dream , the Disney Fantasy , and the Disney Wish , along with Castaway Cay , the Walt Disney Company's private island in the Bahamas designed as an exclusive port of call for Disney's ships. Four more ships will join the fleet between 2022 and 2025. The fifth ship of the fleet, the Disney Wish is now in service and the Disney Treasure was announced at the 2022 D23 Expo and is the sixth ship to be launched. The seventh ship, the Disney Adventure , will be reused and renovated from an unfinished former Global Dream ship, which will be bigger than all the others with more smokestacks, and an eighth ship, the Disney Destiny , has also been announced. A second private island, Lighthouse Point , will also serve as an exclusive port of call for Disney's ships.

• 2.1 Disney Magic
• 2.2 Disney Wonder
• 2.3 Disney Dream
• 2.4 Disney Fantasy
• 2.5 Disney Wish
• 2.6 Disney Treasure
• 2.7 Disney Adventure
• 2.8 Disney Destiny
• 4 References
• 5 External links

History [ ]

The Disney Magic began operation July 30 , 1998 . The Disney Wonder began operation August 15 , 1999 . The Disney Dream began operation January 26 , 2011 , and its most recent ship, the Disney Fantasy , was launched on March 31 , 2012 . The ships each contain 875 staterooms [1] and are almost identical in their design, with a few variations in restaurants and entertainment venues. Both contain areas designed exclusively for various age groups, including toddlers, young children, teens, and adults.

They are the first in the industry to be designed and built from the keel up as family cruise liners, with the goal of accommodating parents and children. Unlike most ships of their type, they do not include casinos, to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere. In October 2006 , additional family amenities were added to the Disney Wonder including features specifically geared toward toddlers, making the ship even more suitable for families with younger children.

Disney Cruise Line was created in 1995 when the company commissioned its two ships at Fincantieri in Italy, ending an arrangement with Premier Cruises for the maritime segment of its vacation packages.

Disney Magic [ ]

Built in 1998 by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, the Disney Magic can hold approximately 2,400 guests. It currently sails on 7-day itineraries including Disney's private island Castaway Cay, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, St. Croix, Tortola, Key West, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel (depending on specific cruise).

In June 2005 , the Disney Magic was dispatched to the West Coast in honor of Disneyland 's 50th Anniversary . The Disney Magic made a transatlantic crossing in May 2007 to sail around the Mediterranean, visiting ports including Barcelona, Cadiz, and Gibraltar.

Beginning May 25 , 2008 , the Disney Magic sailed 12 consecutive seven-night cruise vacations from the Port of Los Angeles to the Mexican Riviera ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta. Disney Cruise Line offered two 15-night repositioning cruises, sailing from Port Canaveral through the Panama Canal, departing May 10, 2008, with the return sailing to Florida on August 17, 2008 .

The Disney Magic entered scheduled 10-day drydock refurbishment on October 1 , 2005 at the Norshipco shipyard in Norfolk, Virginia. Several enhancements took place during this time. The Vista Spa and Salon received a 1,700-square foot expansion including three new spa treatment suites. Three conference rooms on deck 2 were transformed into an additional children's area called Ocean Quest. A 24-by-14 foot LED screen was affixed to the forward funnel in the family swimming pool area where movies and major sporting and broadcast events are shown. Since 2011 , the ship has been based out of Long Beach, California and Vancouver, British Columbia for cruises to the Mexican Rivera and Alaska.

Disney Wonder [ ]

The Disney Wonder is the second cruise ship operated by Disney Cruise Line.

The Disney Wonder alternates between 3 and 4-night cruises. Visiting Nassau and Disney's own private island Castaway Cay, with the 4-night cruise offering an additional day at sea.

In October 2006 , the Wonder went into dry dock for a general sprucing up and the addition of new features, many of which were introduced to the Disney Magic in 2005 .

A toddler pool was added that features interactive fountains and splash zones. A new computer simulator was put into the refurbished Oceaneer Lab that lets kids "steer" Disney Wonder in and out of port. A 24 x 14 ft. LED screen affixed to the forward funnel and overlooking the Goofy Pool offers Disney movies and television programs. The Vista Spa, as well as the meeting and conference facilities and the Quiet Cove adults-only pool, were renovated and expanded too. Beginning in 2011 , Disney Wonder will be based in Barcalona , Spain for European trips.

Disney Dream [ ]

The Disney Dream is the third cruise ship operated by Disney Cruise Line, part of The Walt Disney Company, which entered service in 2011 . Dream currently sails 3, 4, and 5-day itineraries to The Bahamas and Castaway Cay. The Captain of Disney Dream is Tom Forberg; her godmother is Jennifer Hudson.

The Disney Dream is 40% larger than its two older fleet-mates, the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder , with a design gross tonnage (GT) of 128,000 tons, a length of 330 meters, and a width of 37 meters. The Disney Dream carries 4,000 passengers and 1,458 crew.

Like other Disney vessels, Disney Dream's horn plays songs from Disney movies and parks, specifically: " When You Wish Upon a Star " ( Pinocchio ), " A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes " (Cinderella) , " Be Our Guest " ( Beauty and the Beast ), " Yo Ho (A Pirate's Life for Me) " ( Pirates of the Caribbean ), " Hi-Diddle-Dee-Dee (An Actor's Life for Me) " ( Pinocchio ), " It's a Small World ", "Imperial March" "( Star Wars )", and " Do You Want to Build a Snowman? " ( Frozen ).

Disney Fantasy [ ]

The Disney Fantasy is the fourth cruise ship operated by Disney Cruise Line, and is almost identical to Disney Dream, with gross registered tonnage of 130,000 GRT, a length of 340 meters (1,120 ft), and a width of 37 meters (121 ft). Disney Fantasy has 1,250 staterooms. Additional features not on other cruise ships include Disney Wishes and Disney's Aladdin - A Musical Spectacular . Disney Wishes is about three best friends going to Disneyland to celebrate their graduation, where they wish to go on the "Ride of Their Lives" and get taken on a magical journey, led by favorite Disney characters. Disney's Aladdin - A Musical Spectacular is a 45-minute comedy musical based on the movie Aladdin . Disney Fantasy also has the popular Aquaduck Water Coaster, the first Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at the sea that turns into the Pirates League on Mickey's Pirates in the Caribbean Party Nights. The Nightclubs District is called Europa and features a re-imagined and expanded Skyline Club, The Tube, La Piazza, O'Gills Pub, and Ooh La La, an adults-only lounge.

Disney Fantasy is based at Disney Cruise Line's terminal at Port Canaveral, Florida. The ship embarks on alternating Eastern and Western 7 night Caribbean cruises and will call on Disney's private island Castaway Cay. Both, the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream will continue to be home-based at Port Canaveral at least until the end of 2014 .

The Disney Fantasy entered service on March 31 , 2012 . The maiden voyage called to the Western Caribbean. In early March, the Disney Fantasy was christened in New York City by Mariah Carey. Her husband, Nick Cannon, escorted Minnie Mouse to Deck 2 to christen the ship with a champagne bottle.

The Disney Fantasy's float out took place on January 8 , 2012 , at Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, where the Disney Fantasy was built. The sister ship, the Disney Dream, was built at Meyer Werft Shipyard as well. The Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder were built in Italy.

Disney Wish [ ]

The Disney Wish is the fifth cruise ship operated by Disney Cruise Line.

Disney Treasure [ ]

The Disney Treasure is the upcoming sixth cruise ship operated by Disney Cruise Line.

Disney Adventure [ ]

The Disney Adventure is the upcoming seventh cruise ship operated by Disney Cruise Line.

Disney Destiny [ ]

The Disney Destiny is the upcoming eighth cruise ship operated by Disney Cruise Line, based around a "Heroes vs Villains" motif.

Gallery [ ]

References [ ]

• Durand, Jean-Françcruois. Autour du Monde Paquebots / Cruise ships around the world Editions marines, 1996 . [bilingual text]
• Schwartzman, M. T. ed.. Fodor's 99 the best cruises . New York : Fodor's Travel Publications, Inc., c 1998 .
• Ward, Douglas ed.. Berlitz ocean cruising & cruise ships . London : Berlitz, 2003 .
• ↑ Disney Cruise Line FAQ

External links [ ]

• Disney Cruise Line official site
• Disney Cruise Line media site
• All private tours
• Disney Cruise Line unofficial guide
• Google Maps link to Port Canaveral, shows the terminal where the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic dock
• 2 Inside Out 2
• 3 King Magnifico

Disney Dream Cruise: 8 Things You Need to Know

by Cathy Salustri | Sep 13, 2021 | Disney Cruise Line , Disney Dream

Ready for your maiden voyage? Here are eight things you need to know about the Disney Dream cruise ship. 

Ahhh, cruises. A time for relaxation, sunshine, and sea air. Who doesn’t love the idea of setting sail on a cruise, where servers attend to your every need and you can relax in the privacy of your own cabin—or sun lounger.

Perhaps you’ve wondered if Disney Cruise Line could combine all those things with the Most Magical Place on Earth . Spoiler alert: Yes, Disney can, and the Disney Dream, bedazzled in Mickey colors, has more on offer than you may imagine.

Thanks to readers like you, we’re able to keep our site free of disrupting ads. Please consider subscribing to our print edition if you’d like to support us directly, and feel free to sign up for our free newsletter so you never miss out on the latest at Walt Disney World!

Here are eight things you might not know about the Disney Dream cruise ship and experience.

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1. It’s not just for kids

Photo by Bill Ryan

Although Disney designed the Dream with families in mind, a Disney Dream cruise has plenty of only-for-grown-ups offerings in the area of the ship called The District .

Here you’ll find the Skyline and Pink lounges, Evolution dance club, Senses Spa & Salon, and—for sports fans—the 687 Pub . Remy and Palo offer adults-only dining, too .

Up for a care-free dip? The Cove has an adults-only pool/outdoor area/bar . 

2. The Disney Dream has five captains—and an admiral

That’d be the ship’s captain, of course, along with Captain Jack Sparrow, Captain Hook, Captain Mickey, and Captain Minnie .

As for the Admiral? That’d be Donald (Duck, natch!).

We’re pretty sure the ship’s captain is the one in charge (at least, that’s what Mickey lets him think!) so no worries about pirates of the Caribbean here.

And we’re pretty sure you won’t have to save the Lost Boys of Neverland from Captain Hook.

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3. So many Hidden Mickeys

Photo by Julie de la Fe

The biggest one is the not-so-hidden Mickey-shaped pool , but you can hunt for others, too.

The Disney Dream just doesn’t have hidden Mickeys; designers built Easter egg surprises throughout the ship that make even a walk down the hallway to your cabin exciting (hint: look down!).

4. You really get to know your server

Photo by Jimmy Taylor

The Disney Dream has rotational dining , which means that you will rotate through the restaurants for dinner every night — and so does your wait staff . If you have food allergies or a picky eater or simply enjoy exceptional service, this is, well, a dream.

No need to tell a new waiter every night that your two-year-old will only eat hot dogs or explain that you’re allergic to eggs on repeat!

5. Every other cruise line has something the Disney Dream cruise ship (and other Disney Cruise ships) do not

Photo by Rain Blanken

That would be casinos . In keeping with the family-friendly Disney magic, Disney ships don’t have casinos. There’s so much to do on the Dream that cruisers don’t seem to miss them! 

And if you just have to gamble? Try out bingo!

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6. You can talk to Crush—and he talks to you!

Photo courtesy of Disney Parks Blog

If you love the laid-back turtle from Finding Nemo , you’ll get a kick out of interacting with Crush while you dine at Animator’s Palate . Righteous!

7. You can watch Disney’s latest movies on board

You can watch the latest releases and 3D movies on the Disney Dream —but the decor’s anything but modern. Instead, you escape into an Art Deco movie palace reminiscent of the 1930s and ’40s. The Disney Dream even has balcony and orchestra seating!

8. The Art Deco decor is an homage to Walt Disney’s own love of cruising

Walt Disney and his wife loved to cruise , and the ship’s Art Deco theme appears to be a big ol’ nod to their cruising days of the 1930s. 

As you can see, the Disney Dream has plenty for kids and adults alike to discover. Let us know what neat things you discovered on your Disney Dream cruise in the article comments on our Facebook page !

Not sure if you’re going? You can just get more information about a potential Disney vacation.

Know your dates? Just need advice for now?

All Your Dreamy Dining Options On the Disney Dream

You Can Book A Cruise On The Disney Dream For August 2021

Disney Dream Itinerary Modifications: Select Fall 2021 Sailings Now Exclude Nassau

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Everything we know about the disney destiny, disney cruise line reveals name and details for new ship, this is the most expensive stateroom you can book on a disney cruise, discover the disney wish’s wedding venue: the grand hall, is marvel day at sea worth it, posts by cathy salustri, authored by cathy salustri.

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Disney Dream Fact Sheet

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Disney Dream is the third ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, joining Disney Magic (maiden voyage in 1998) and Disney Wonder (maiden voyage in 1999), and followed by the Disney Fantasy (maiden voyage in 2012).

Birthplace                  Meyer Werft – Papenburg, Germany

Maiden Voyage          Jan. 26, 2011

Home Port                  Port Canaveral, Fla.

Ship’s Registry          Bahamas

Tonnage                     130,000 gross tons

Length                        1,115 feet

Beam                          121 feet

Draft                           28 feet

Height                         216 feet

Speed                          22 knots cruising speed (maximum 23.5 knots)

Crew                            1,458

Passenger Decks        14

Capacity                     4,000 passengers

Staterooms                 1,250

• 150 Inside Staterooms (12%)
• 199 ocean view
• 901 verandah (includes 21 suites)

Itineraries

• Three-, four- and five-night Bahamian itineraries departing from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Main Public Areas

• Atrium Lobby – Deck 3
• Walt Disney Theatre (1,340 capacity; live original productions) – Decks 3 and 4
• Buena Vista Theatre (399 capacity; motion pictures) – Decks 4 and 5
• Preludes theatre concessions – Deck 3
• Bon Voyage atrium lobby bar – Deck 3
• Vista Café – Deck 4
• Shutters (Capturing Memories) photo gallery – Deck 4
• Vista Gallery art gallery – Deck 4
• Disney Vacation Planning Center – Deck 5
• Guest Services – Deck 3
• Port Adventures – Deck 5

Family Areas

• D Lounge – Deck 4
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique – Deck 5
• AquaDuck water coaster – entrance on Deck 12
• Goofy’s Sports deck – Deck 13
• Donald’s Pool family pool – Deck 11
• Mickey’s Pool children’s pool – Deck 11
• Nemo’s Reef water-play area – Deck 11
• Vanellope’s Sweets and Treats – Deck 11
• Mickey’s Mainsail, Sea Treasures, White Caps retail shops – Deck 3
• Whozits & Whatzits retail shop – Deck 11

Youth Areas

• it’s a small world nursery – Deck 5
• Disney’s Oceaneer Club – Deck 5
• Disney’s Oceaneer Lab – Deck 5
• Vibe teen club – Deck 5
• Edge tween club – Deck 13

Adult Areas

• The District – Deck 4
• Skyline bar
• Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar
• Evolution night club
• District Lounge
• Senses Spa & Salon – Deck 11
• Senses Juice Bar – Deck 11
• Quiet Cove Pool – Deck 11
• Cove Bar – Deck 11
• Cove Café – Deck 11
• Meridian bar – Deck 12
• Waves bar – Deck 12
• Currents bar – Deck 13
• Satellite Sun Deck – Deck 13
• Enchanted Garden main dining (696 capacity) – Deck 2
• Animator’s Palate main dining (696 capacity) – Deck 3
• Royal Palace main dining (696 capacity) – Deck 3
• Remy adult-exclusive fine dining (68 capacity) – Deck 12
• Palo adult-exclusive fine dining (128 inside / 16 outside capacity) – Deck 12
• Cabanas casual dining – Deck 11
• Flo’s Café: Luigi’s Pizza, Tow Mater’s Grill, Fillmore’s Favorites quick service – Deck 11
• Eye Scream ice cream – Deck 11
• Frozone Treats smoothies – Deck 11

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Ship Location, Ship Information, Ship Facts, Ship Features

Most modern cruise ships need to be dry docked for inspection, maintenance and class surveys every five years and once they reach 15 years of age they need to be dry docked at least twice within a five-year period. Dry docks typically last up to 14 days at a cost of up to $2 million per day and involve regular maintenance including hull cleaning, exterior painting of the structure, inspection of pipes, restoration of exterior deck flooring, and installation of enhanced HVAC filter systems

External Website - disneycruise.disney.go.com

• Smoking is prohibited in all indoor areas, cabins, and balconies. Note: On the Magic and Wonder the smoking area is Deck 9 forward port side, Deck 4 starboard from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM. On the Dream and Fantasy smoking is permitted Deck 12 port side near Currents Bar. Deck 12 port side aft (outdoor area accessed through Meridian Lounge), Deck 4 portside aft (outside promenade) from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

• 2 Whirlpools (hot tubs)
• No Rock Climbing Wall
• No Flow Rider
• No Ice Rink
• No Ropes Course

• No Golf Simulator
• Sports Court
• Jogging Track

• No Cigar Lounge
• Video Arcade

• Show Lounge
• Fitness Center
• No Bridge Viewing Area
• Outdoor Movie Screen
• Teen Lounge
• No Passenger Promenade
• No Upper Deck Sea Viewing Lounge
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Disney Dream Ship Facts

The Disney Dream is the third ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. The ship has 14 towering decks and the capacity to comfortably accommodate 4,000 passengers. The cruise liner was specially designed with families in mind, combining sleek style and convenient facilities with splashes of magic and cruise-industry firsts—like the splashtacular AquaDuck, the very first water coaster at sea. Take a look at some additional Disney Dream ship facts.

Birthplace Meyer Werft – Papenburg, Germany

Maiden Voyage Jan. 26, 2011

Home Port Port Canaveral, FL

Ship’s Registry Bahamas

Tonnage 130,000 gross tons

Length 1,115 feet

Beam 121 feet

Draft 28 feet

Height 216 feet

Speed 22 knots cruising speed (maximum 23.5 knots)

Passenger Decks 14

Capacity 4,000 passengers

Staterooms 1,250

• 150 Inside Staterooms (12%)
• 199 ocean view
• 901 verandah (includes 21 suites)

Main Public Areas

• Atrium Lobby – Deck 3 (atrium spans three decks)
• Walt Disney Theatre (1,340 capacity; live original productions) – Decks 3 and 4
• Buena Vista Theatre (399 capacity; motion pictures) – Decks 4 and 5
• Preludes theatre concessions – Deck 3
• Bon Voyage atrium lobby bar – Deck 3
• Vista Café – Deck 4
• Shutters (Capturing Memories) photo gallery – Deck 4
• Vista Gallery – Deck 4
• Tiffany & Co. – Deck 4
• Guest Services – Deck 3
• Port Adventures – Deck 5

Family Areas

• D Lounge – Deck 4
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique – Deck 5
• AquaDuck water coaster – entrance on Deck 12
• Goofy’s Sports deck – Deck 13
• Donald’s Pool – Deck 11
• Mickey’s Pool – Deck 11
• Nemo’s Reef water-play area – Deck 11
• Vanelope’s Sweets and Treats – Deck 11
• Mickey’s Mainsail, Sea Treasures, Whitecaps retail shops – Deck 3
• Whozits & Whatzits retail shop – Deck 11

Youth Areas

• It’s a Small World Nursery – Deck 5
• Disney’s Oceaneer Club – Deck 5
• Disney’s Oceaneer Lab – Deck 5
• Vibe teen club – Deck 5
• Edge tween club – Deck 13

Adult Areas

• Skyline bar
• Pink cocktail bar
• Evolution night club
• District Lounge
• Senses Spa & Salon – Deck 11
• Quiet Cove Pool – Deck 11
• Cove Bar – Deck 11
• Cove Café – Deck 11
• Meridian bar – Deck 12
• Waves bar – Deck 12
• Currents bar – Deck 13
• Satellite Falls – Deck 13

• Enchanted Garden main dining (696 capacity) – Deck 2
• Animator’s Palate main dining (696 capacity) – Deck 3
• Royal Palace main dining (696 capacity) – Deck 3
• Remy adult-exclusive fine dining (68 capacity) – Deck 12
• Palo adult-exclusive fine dining (128 inside / 16 outside capacity) – Deck 12
• Cabanas casual dining – Deck 11
• Flo’s Café: Luigi’s Pizza, Tow Mater’s Grill, Fillmore’s Favorites quick service – Deck 11
• Eye Scream ice cream – Deck 11
• Frozone Treats smoothies – Deck 11

The Disney ships are painted in Mickey Mouse-inspired colors – black hull, white superstructure, yellow trim and two giant red funnels, each with the Disney Cruise Line Mickey Mouse logo.

Disney Cruise Line was the first cruise line to have yellow lifeboats, instead of the traditional regulation orange. Disney was granted special permission from the U.S. Coast Guard to paint the lifeboats yellow, to keep with the special color theming of the ship.

Disney ships are the only cruise ships to have four captains – the ship’s captain, Captain Mickey, Captain Hook and Captain Jack Sparrow.

In a cruise industry first, most staterooms on Disney ships feature a split “bath-and-a-half” design, providing families the added convenience of a sink and tub/shower in one room and a sink and toilet in a separate room.

The Disney ships offer free soft drinks any time of day or night, with a free 24/7 beverage station featuring sodas, coffee, tea and water.

The ship’s horn on the Disney Dream is a prominent element of the “Sailing Away” deck party at the start of every cruise and is quite the musical talent. The horns are able to sound the first musical line of “When You Wish Upon a Star” as well as the second line of the song (“makes no difference who you are”) plus, several measures of “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me),” “It’s a Small World,” “Be Our Guest,” “Hi Diddle Dee Dee (An Actor’s Life for Me)” “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman”.

The Sorcerer Mickey Mouse on the Disney Dream’s stern is about 14 feet long. Constructed of stainless steel and fiberglass, it weighs approximately 2,500 pounds. The “ornament” was sculpted at Walt Disney Imagineering in California, structurally designed by engineers at Disney Cruise Line and Meyer Werft in Germany, manufactured in Sarasota, FL, finish-painted in Orlando, and then transported by ship to Germany for final installation on the Disney Dream. From sculpture to the stern of Disney Dream was a journey of about 15,000 miles for Mickey Mouse.

The Disney Dream’s Art Deco-style chandelier sparkles with thousands of hand-crafted crystal beads and glows with colorful glasswork. Crafted in Brixen, located in Northern Italy, the chandelier is 22 feet diameter at the ceiling plate and comes down 13 feet from the ceiling. It is 24kt gold plated with a total of 88,680 Swarovski crystal beads ranging in size from 6mm to 12mm.

Every Disney Cruise Line ship has an atrium lobby statue celebrating a classic Disney character. Admiral Donald is striking a pose on the Disney Dream.

Walt Disney Imagineers elevated the AquaDuck water coaster on the Disney Dream in order to maximize space on the deck.

Guests can celebrate special occasions with a one-of-a-kind toast at nightspots dedicated to “bubbly.” French champagne-maker Taittinger crafted a “pink” just for Pink – Taittinger Prestige Rose is the signature sparkling.

Ahoy, mateys! Subtle nautical motif adorns Disney Cruise Line ships, including traditional maritime symbols and lettering that only the conscientious sailor can spot. For example, on the carpet in the Disney Dream stateroom corridors, a ship’s wheel encompasses a map of the world and nautical flags spell out the name of the ship.

At 1,115 feet, the Disney Dream is longer than the height of the Eiffel Tower in Paris (1,063 feet) and longer than the height of New York City’s famous Chrysler Building (1,047 feet).

A leader in family entertainment, Disney is the only cruise line to first-run feature films, including films in 3-D, with movies premiering at sea on the same day that they are released on land.

Don’t worry about getting a chill! The swimming pools on Disney ships are heated when the water temperature drops below 75 degrees.

For pricing and information contact The Magic For Less Travel

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