disney magic cruise reviews 2021

Disney Magic review: What it's like to sail the original Disney ship 25 years later

If cars are often considered classics after 25 years, how does that translate to a popular cruise ship that is sailing toward its 25th birthday?

Having sailed on Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, Disney Wish , which is still in its first year of operations, along with both Disney Dream and Disney Wonder , I was curious how my family would find things on the oldest ship in Disney's fleet: Disney Magic.

Believe it or not, it's been almost 25 years since Magic first set sail in 1998, so it truly is an older ship by U.S. cruise line standards.

However, age is just a number, as they say, so I was excited to experience the Disney ship that started it all. After more than two decades of service, would it be a timeless classic or a less-impressive version of the younger and bigger Disney ships?

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On a chilly January morning, my family and I packed our Mickey ears and made the two-hour drive to the ship's winter home port of Galveston, Texas, ready to find out how Disney Magic stands up to the other ships in the fleet.

How old is Disney Magic?

Disney Magic set sail on its maiden voyage July 30, 1998, from Florida to the Bahamas. However, the ship has had work done over the years, and not every piece of it is rapidly approaching 25 years old.

For example, some elements of the ship are just 5 years old because they were added or revamped during Magic's last dry dock, when the cruise line took the opportunity to make some upgrades.

Updated attractions include the teen club Vibe, the adults-only coffee shop Cove Cave and the only "Tangled-" themed restaurant on the ocean: Rapunzel's Royal Table.

Dry-dock refurbishments are a pretty routine occurrence, taking place every five years or so. That means the ship isn't stuck in a 1998 time warp.

Instead, it's quite similar in many ways to all its fleetmates except Disney Wish, which is really a part of the next generation of Disney ships rather than a continuation of the look and feel of the first four.

In other words, don't let the age of Disney Magic scare you.

Related: 26 tips and tricks for sailing with Disney Cruise Line

The size of Disney Magic

Disney Magic may be the oldest (and tied with Disney Wonder for the fleet's smallest ship), but it's still a large ship at 11 decks high and 984 feet long. The 875-cabin vessel holds 3,658 passengers — 2,713 cruisers and about 945 crew members.

The ship features two theaters, five kids clubs, a spa, four restaurants (plus a buffet and quick-service food stalls) and three pools. In other words, you'll stay busy exploring and enjoying the ship for at least several days.

Restaurants and food on Disney Magic

Disney Magic debuted the cruise line's rotational dining system, which is unique in the cruise industry.

Throughout the cruise, passengers rotate through three complimentary dining venues, and your serving team joins you in the different restaurants each night. Other dining options include the extra-fee, adults-only restaurant, Disney Cruise Line's dedicated Italian restaurant. There are also casual grab-and-go venues on the pool deck.

Rapunzel's Royal Table

My favorite of the three included rotational restaurants is Rapunzel's Royal Table, found only on Disney Magic. Here, you get the unique experience of attending Rapunzel's birthday celebration.

Floating lanterns dot the ceiling, and some of the stars of "Tangled" perform a musical show on a central stage while you dine. Eventually, many of the characters work their way around the room, so you can say hi to the movie's villains and heroes. This dinner show was most similar to the Tiana-themed restaurant on Disney Wonder, which is also excellent.

Pro tip: Get the shrimp appetizer if you enjoy seafood — get two if you really enjoy seafood.

Lumiere's

The most non-descript of the three main dining rooms on Disney Magic is Lumiere's, which is "Beauty and the Beast" inspired. However, you'll only know that from the roses on the ceiling and the painting on one wall.

Otherwise, it's just a large restaurant that gives off major art deco vibes. If you need to miss a restaurant in favor of a meal at Palo or relaxing in your room, I'd pick this one as it's the most generic of the three.

Animator's Palate

All original four Disney ships have a version of Animator's Palate, though it varies a bit on each ship.

The one on Disney Magic starts in black and white, but the room and the wait staff gain colorful adornments throughout the course of the meal. A special guest makes an appearance during the grand finale, which is when things really transform into full color, accompanied with exciting music and special effects.

The special guest (spoiler alert: Mickey in his rarely worn Sorcerer's Apprentice outfit) dances his way all around the room, so have your camera ready.

Our turn in Animator's Palate happened on the final night of our cruise, so the entire wait staff came out for a round of well-deserved applause with Mickey, and it was honestly pretty emotional.

You do not want to leave early from this meal, so order extra dessert if you must and stay put until the end.

The most popular dish here may be the black truffle pasta purseittes appetizer, as it has quite the following, though it wasn't my personal favorite. The smoked salmon tartar and vegetarian black bean chipotle cakes were the hits at our table.

The best $45 you can spend onboard a Disney cruise , to me, is unquestionably a meal at Palo.

This adults-only restaurant is open for brunch and dinner, and you can't go wrong with either. There are sometimes last-minute openings. However, this is one meal you'll want to book as far out as possible as it's popular and has limited seating.

This is the only restaurant on Disney Magic where food costs extra, but the cost is reasonable for what you get. The essentially all-you-want-to-enjoy brunch costs $45 with can't-miss items such as chicken Parmesan, wild mushroom ravioli, a seafood antipasti plate and chocolate souffle, along with flatbreads, omelets, waffles and more.

Favorite grab-and-go spots

Out on deck, you'll also find many grab-and-go outlets, which are also included in your cruise fare. These venues serve up such basics as soft serve ice cream, pizza, fries and chicken tenders, but two of these fast-food stations were surprise hits.

Daisy's De Lites mainly offers fruits, salads and cookies, but it also has a build-your-own chicken and rice bowl that was absolutely fantastic. Load your bowl up with everything on offer for the best results.

Another nice surprise was the Duck-In Diner counter that served pita, hummus and gyros — a welcome change from the admittedly also-delicious kid staples of tenders and fries.

Related: 7 ways Disney Wish surprised me

Waterslide on Disney Magic

If you want a thrilling ride on a Disney ship, by far, the winner in that category is found on Disney Magic with its mildly terrifying AquaDunk.

Where the new AquaMouse on Disney Wish is cute and family-friendly, the AquaDunk is something else entirely, making it an alluring attraction for the tween and teen crew.

On this waterslide, you stand in a booth at the highest point on the ship. When it's your turn, the floor drops out beneath you, and you fall 40 feet only to be shot about 18 feet out over the side of the ship.

For this slide, not only do you have to be at least 4 feet tall, but you have to be OK with climbing into an enclosed capsule, having the door shut, hearing that countdown and then dropping and getting soaked.

I tried it once, and that was enough for me to say I've done it. If that's too intense for you or your kids, don't worry. There's a more traditional waterslide on Disney Magic, too. The Twist 'n' Spout slide by the AquaLab was the favorite spot for my 7-year-old.

Related: The best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

Pools on Disney Magic

Disney Magic has a lot of strengths, but the pools are pretty basic.

Options include the AquaLab pool, Goofy's main pool between the two funnels, a small splash area and the adult pool area. If you go during off hours, such as early or late in the day, it's a great experience. However, the pools aren't nearly large enough for the popularity of a midday swim.

The adult pool area was my personal favorite of the three pools, though it's not nearly as cool looking as the infinity pool on Disney Wish.

In the interest of setting realistic expectations, expect pools to look much more like this (or worse) during the heat of the day.

Kid clubs on Disney Magic

Small world nursery.

While most of the kid clubs on Disney cruises are included, the one exception across all the ships is for the Small World Nursery. It's available for little ones from 6 months to 3 years old at a rate of $4.50 per half hour. This was a relatively basic space compared to the other kid clubs, but this age range is the easiest to impress.

Pro tip: There is a one-way mirror so you can check on your little one without them seeing you.

Oceaneer's Club and Lab

The heart of Disney Cruise Line's kid clubs are the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, which are connected and available to kids from ages 3 to 12 who are potty trained. Here, you'll find a "Toy Story-" themed slide, crafts, video games, organized activities, competitions, an Avenger's area and more.

Kids can enjoy free play or color, play video games or go on the slide at their own pace, but the youth staff also lead frequent group activities throughout the day. These may be a better fit for kids who need a little more support and structure to their fun.

My 7-year-old would consistently eat her dinner as fast as possible to head here and keep playing.

There's no fee and no reservations required to come and play in these clubs. However, you will need to get a Magic Band from the kids club that is used to track the kiddos while they are in the clubs. If you return it on the last night of the cruise, you won't be charged for its use.

Once your kiddo turns 11 (or 10 with parent permission and enough space), they can start visiting Edge, which has a submarine-under-the-sea look on Disney Magic.

It's nearly identical to the Edge club on Disney Wonder. Youth staff lead organized activities and games in Edge at certain times during the day, but it also serves as a casual tween hangout spot the rest of the time.

The teen club, Vibe, is open for to those ages 14 to 17, though you can get in a year early with parent permission, which is what my 13-year-old chose. Both Vibe and Edge are come-and-go clubs that don't scan your kids in and out or track them with any sort of band.

The youth staff offer some structured games and activities, but Vibe is largely a place to hang out, play video games and get to know other teens.

Pro tip: If your teen wants to make friends on the ship, have them be active and present in the teen club on the first day when there are ice-breaker activities. Lots of unofficial cruise packs of friends form on day one, and then the teens roam the ship together, not necessarily hanging out in the club.

Related: These are the best cruises for teens

Rooms on Disney Magic

I'm sure there are some differences among the cabins on Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy, but they all look the same to me.

The decor is heavy on navy, white, stripes and wood. Below is our cabin on Magic, which slept the three of us comfortably with the couch converting to a single bed. Unlike in some cabins we've had, this one did not have a bed that came down from the ceiling.

It did feature the split bathroom design Disney Cruise Line is known for. One small bathroom contains the sink and toilet, and a separate little room has another sink and a tub/shower combo. The layout is ideal for getting multiple people ready for the day or for bed at the same time.

Here's a look at our most recent cabin on Disney Dream, as a contrast to Disney Magic (or lack of contrast, as the case may be).

Related: Inside a $10,000 suite on Disney Wish

Adult areas on Disney Magic

In keeping with the approach on the other original Disney ships, the adult bars and lounges on Disney Magic are largely clustered in the same area dubbed After Hours.

Here you'll find Keys, a piano bar and lounge with some top-notch whiskey; O'Gills Pub, which is a great place for a pint or to watch sports; and Fathoms, which is a mixed-use lounge that often serves as a meeting point for excursions or family-friendly activities during the day and as a club at night.

I enjoyed listening to a few songs in Keys after dinner a few nights. However, none of these spaces were fully my cup of tea, mainly because they were dark and not super inviting.

Also, the lounges' layouts were not conducive to social interaction among the guests due to an emphasis on clustered seating rather than communal bar space. Or, maybe it's just the luck of the draw, and the cruisers on Disney Magic were less interested in chatting with their shipmates than on my previous cruise on Disney Wish.

The unexpected upside of this was that I did not feel like I was missing out by ditching the bars for my room, where I could enjoy a glass of wine on my balcony.

Pro tip: This adult area of the ship is where you will find the most comfortable port holes for photos, reading a book or relaxing and enjoying the ride at sea.

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

Shows on Disney Magic

If you ever get the chance to sail on Disney Magic — or any of the Disney ships — don't miss the Sail Away party that takes place shortly after the muster drill as the ship pulls out to sea. It's the most fun way to kick your vacation into high gear. Arrive a few minutes early to get a spot by the stage, especially if you have little kids.

Disney Magic, like the other Disney ships, has a movie theater where you can see first-run Disney movies. Since there is only one movie theater on Magic, it offers a smaller choice of movies than on the ships with two theaters, but it's still a nice selection.

The evening Broadway-caliber shows currently on Disney Magic are:

• "Tangled: The Musical."
• "Disney Dreams — An Enchanted Classic."
• "Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story."

We skipped "Disney Dreams," as it was a repeat of what we'd seen on Disney Wonder. However, all of these shows are worth seeing, with "Tangled" the strongest of the three offerings. "Tangled" and "Twice Charmed" are unique to Disney Magic, in case you need to prioritize.

Fewer temptations to spend money on Disney Magic

On the new Disney Wish, I found an abundance of temptations to spend money around every turn.

These included alcoholic popsicle drinks, the ice cream shop the kids passed multiple times per day (with see-through glass walls, naturally), the Star Wars-themed bar that jumps through hyperspace , the Bayou with pay-to-eat beignets, Nightingale's next to the kid's club with the cocktails served in balls of ice, the coffee and cocktails in the ship's version of a buffet, Marceline Market and so many other fun and enticing ways to part with your dollars.

While Disney Magic does not lack places to buy a cocktail, it does not have a sweet shop, Untangled hair salon, Hook's Barbery with the "hidden" drink cabinet or specialty snacks like beignets that aren't included in your cruise fare.

I found it easier than on Wish to simply enjoy what comes with the experience instead of feeling like you need to spend $10, $20, $50 or more several times a day to get the full experience.

Related: How to save money on a Disney cruise

How I wish they'd make Magic more magical

I'd love for Disney Magic to add a slide into the kids club, a brighter and airier spa and some other elements of Disney Wish that we liked, but that's easier said than done. I do have a shorter list of more realistic upgrades I'd love to see on Disney Magic in the coming years.

This original Disney ship would benefit from at least one brighter bar or lounge, as the ship can feel cavernous at times. As I mentioned, for me, the bars weren't inviting spaces when compared to my own cabin's balcony. This is in stark contrast to all the beautiful bars and lounges on Wish I was excited to spend time in.

It would also be a real plus if Disney Magic integrated a magical scavenger hunt type of activity that you see on other Disney ships. This would layer in one more thing for the kids to do on a sea day or between other activities.

Also, this is personal preference, but while I enjoy and appreciate the bold nautical theme of the classic Disney ships, I do think there's a way to pull that off without the striped decor in the staterooms that may have sailed a touch passed its prime.

Here's a view of a Disney Wish cabin, showing the updated decor I'd love to see on Disney Magic. It retains the deep blue but steps away from the dated stripes.

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

Overall impressions

Disney Magic was a fun and thoroughly enjoyable ship. It doesn't feel old, but it is smaller and a touch more quaint than the line's newest ships.

The ship's smaller footprint with fewer onboard temptations to spend money can be a benefit in that it's easier to get around and just enjoy — not only the ship but also where it's going.

Without all the pay-to-enjoy distractions, my family went to more of the gameshows, spent more time at the pools or reading on the balcony and even watched the baby crawling races, which sound bizarre but are very entertaining.

I would not hesitate to sail on Disney Magic again in its 25th year or in the future — no matter how many newer and bigger Disney cruise ships make their debuts.

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Disney Magic Deck Plans & Reviews

Disney Magic

Activities & entertainment

• ConnectATSea *
• Its a Small World Nursery
• Disneys Oceaneer Club
• Disneys Oceaneer Lab
• Edge _ Tweens Club
• Vibe _ Teens Club
• Senses Spa and Salon *
• Senses Rainforest Room *
• Senses Treatment Salons *
• Spa Villas *
• Chill Spa *
• Nephews Splash Zone
• Wide World of Sports Deck
• Sports Court
• Character Events
• Fitness Center
• Fitness Classes
• Jogging Track
• Arts and Crafts Classes
• Deck Parties
• Scavenger Hunts
• Dance Parties
• Extensive Kids Programs
• Pin Trading
• Sing_Alongs
• Video Game Competitions
• Adults_Only Events
• Whirlpools (4)
• Waterslides (2)
• Twist n Spout
• Guest Services
• Port Adventures *
• Disney Vacation Planning *
• Disney Vacation Club Desk
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique *
• Retail Shops *
• Vista Gallery *
• Shutters Portrait Studio *
• Concierge Lounge _ Suite Guests
• Medical Center
• Walt Disney Theatre
• Buena Vista Theatre
• Disney Movies Onboard
• Funnel Vision
• Stage Shows
• Nightly Live Music
• Lumieres - Rotational Main
• Rapunzels Royal Table - Rotational Main
• Animators Palate - Rotational Main
• Cabanas - Buffet
• Keys - Piano Bar *
• OGills Pub - Pub *
• Preludes Bar - Theater Snacks *
• Signals Bar - Pool Bar *
• Beverage Station - Soft Drinks
• Frozone Treats_Eye Scream - Ice Cream
• Daisys De_Lites - Light Fare
• Pinocchios Pizzeria - Pizza
• Cove Cafe - Coffee Bar *
• Duck_In Diner - Fast Food
• Palo - Italian *
• Promenade Lounge - Popular Bar *
• Room Service

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Disney Magic cruise review: sing-along suppers, Frozen parties and exhilarating water slides

Florida’s theme parks may be off-limits but new uk sailings bring the family magic closer to home.

L ittle cheers are erupting under the wavy roof of the Horizon Cruise Terminal in Southampton. One by one we watch as passengers, who are already double-vaccinated or have tested negative for Covid-19, get the green light to join the two-day Disney Magic cruise along the south coast after one last precautionary swab test. Families, many dressed head to toe in Disney merch, punch the air when the results they need land. Then they hotfoot it up the gangway and, minutes later, I join them with my daughters — Belle, ten, and Cleo, seven.

Of course, we’d all rather be in Orlando or docking in Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, but deep into a pandemic that has left cruise holidays largely high and dry, a trip into the Channel’s slate-green waters with Mickey, Goofy and Elsa feels most welcome.

This summer’s two, three and four-night cruises out of Liverpool, Newcastle, Southampton and Tilbury are a bit different from your average cruise, though. There are no ports of call; they’re simply Disney-themed parties at sea.

Belle and Cleo are initially wary, influenced by dismal ferry trips across the Channel in the past, but it’s not long before their cynicism evaporates. They’re sold from the moment a microphone-holding crew member notes our arrival and hollers, “Welcome, the Tweedy family!” before our fellow passengers give us an enthusiastic clap. I find it equally mortifying and exhilarating.

Visually the 11-deck Disney Magic, which usually carries 2,700 passengers but is operating at a reduced capacity, tips its hat to Cunard’s classic liners. A blue-black hull gives way to white upper decks topped with two pillarbox-red funnels. Each is bedecked with silhouettes of Mickey Mouse’s head. You can literally spot him a mile off.

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Inside, art deco reigns supreme in the public spaces. The lobby, on deck three, is straight out of Miami’s Ocean Drive circa 1930. A staircase sweeps down to a sunburst carpet, framed by glass lifts, gleaming golden balconies and plenty of caramel-hued wood. Our deluxe ocean-view stateroom comes with a bijou balcony, comfortable beds and a 1963 Pirates of the Caribbean illustration on the wall. A single bed, hidden in the ceiling, folds down to form bunk beds with the sofa. To my daughters’ delight, the television pipes in Disney movies all day long. I’ll admit, a day that begins with watching The Lion King in a kingsize bed decked in luxury linen, coffee in hand, while England’s south coast drifts past the window feels, if not magical, then certainly an absolute treat.

The staff on board — Agung from Bali, Rick from Chile, David from Portugal et al — deliver US-style hospitality with gusto. Service is lightning-quick. Milk, cookies and a pot of Earl Grey delivered to our room at 11pm? “No problem, Mrs Tweedy! Have a magical night!”

Childcare on board is included, with four clubs for tots to teens. Little ones head to the It’s a Small World nursery, while primary-school children check in at the Oceaneer’s Lab. Tweens have the Edge, while teenagers can swap their parents in favour of retro arcades and cool sofas at Vibe. I deposit Belle and Cleo at the Oceaneer’s Lab en route to a Swedish massage at the Senses spa and return, knots untangled, to find them looking as though they’ve just spent six weeks at a New England summer camp. Wearing Mickey baseball caps and backpacks, they breathlessly report how they met Pluto, made slime and hurtled down an indoor slide.

Dinner, often a fraught experience for parents, is (whisper it) loads of fun. We join a 6pm sitting at Animator’s Palate, a colourful diner where giant paint brushes hang from the ceiling. Just as several toddlers look ready to kick off at their respective tables, Lumiere, Beauty and the Beast ’s talking candlestick, unleashes a clap-along version of Be Our Guest . It works like a charm, leaving me to enjoy a teriyaki beef tenderloin served with wasabi mash and a glass of warming Nero D’Avola. The next night Rapunzel’s Royal Table wins the room over by serving up a stage show between courses.

Our only full day at sea, floating six miles south of Portland Bill Lighthouse in Dorset, is spent meandering between activities, punctuated by a casual poolside lunch at Pinocchio’s Pizzeria. We join a Disney trivia quiz in Fathoms, a sleek-looking nightclub, and get a dismal 8 out of 20. Then there’s bingo, origami and a showing of the newly released Jungle Cruise film, starring Emily Blunt and Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson, in the cinema.

Our day is punctuated with lunch at the more casual beach-themed Cabanas. There’s almost any kind of cuisine you can think of on offer — from fiery curries to imaginative vegetarian fare and plenty of fast food — and it’s all plated up and presented by a legion of smiling waiting staff. I go for a prawn salad topped with two giant crab claws while the children go for the mac and cheese.

We chat to a family from Suffolk on the next table, who tells us they’ve previously travelled to the Caribbean on a Disney cruise. Just as we joke about how the Channel isn’t quite as thrilling, a pair of dolphins arc out of the waters and follow in the wake of the ship, in what we decide is a pretty convincing defence on the joys of sailing in waters close to home.

With the sun almost down, we hit the pools on deck nine. The main family one, at the ship’s centre, is surprisingly small and, with numbers capped to allow for social distancing, there’s a 15-minute queue to enjoy a dip. Twist’n’Spout, a snaking yellow half-tube slide that stretches nearly 76m, is the biggest hit with Belle and Cleo. We hear Cleo before we can see her: “This is so much fun,” she hollers as she’s thrust at speed into the splash pool a deck below. Next we contemplate AquaDunk, which involves riders being loaded into a see-through cylinder before the floor drops away and they plunge down a near-vertical slide. We watch wide-eyed before deciding against it.

With the children happy, I slink off to the adults-only Cove, where two hot tubs, a large pool and a stylish-looking café await. Tranquillity abounds until the chipmunks Chip’ n’Dale turn up and laugh at my less-than-sophisticated swimming technique.

After dark, it’s all about the shows. We take in two, the first being an hour-long adaptation of Tangled , the musical based on the story of Rapunzel, with a cast so slick they might have stepped straight off a West End stage. Later, by the light of the moon, we join Elsa, Anna and Olaf for a Frozen deck party. It’s a lively affair, with 100 or so guests — many up way past their bedtime — belting out Idina Menzel’s chart-topping earworm Let it Go as a flurry of fake snow is blasted across deck nine.

June 2022 is the date for the Florida launch of the 4,000-passenger Disney Wish, the next ship to join the fold (alongside Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy). Here’s hoping that some of the Disney-devoted Brits we’ve encountered get to make her maiden voyage.

Jo Tweedy was a guest of Disney Cruises. Three nights’ full board aboard Disney Magic costs from £1,758pp, departing from Tilbury on September 17 ( disneycruise.co.uk )

Eight more family-friendly sailings

1. Top-deck Greece The newest cruise ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, the Odyssey of the Seas, glides into European waters for the first time next summer. This round-trip leaves Rome and ticks off a couple of Greek Island classics — Mykonos and Santorini — as well as Ephesus in Turkey and Naples. For children the ports of call are likely to play second fiddle to the ship’s top deck. There are fairground-style bumper cars, a FlowRider surf machine and a skydiving simulator. Details Seven nights’ full board from £927pp, departing on June 12, 2022 ( royalcaribbean.com ). Fly to Rome

2. Icelandic adventure Budding explorers can swap the classroom for a geography masterclass courtesy of Hurtigruten’s expedition-style cruise on MS Fridtjof Nansen. Departing Liverpool, the ship weaves north, taking in Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides before heading for the Land of Fire and Ice. The Young Explorers programme — due to return by next year — gives curious youngsters the lowdown on the Icelandic towns they visit, including hot-spring hub Akureyri and the tiny isle of Grimsey, which straddles the Arctic Circle. An expedition jacket is included too. Details Nine nights’ all-inclusive from £2,896pp, including one-way flight from Reykjavik, departing on May 24 2022 ( hurtigruten.co.uk )

3. Med heaven P&O Cruises has garnered a well-deserved reputation for its fun-packed children’s clubs, and next summer sees the family-friendly Britannia cruising the Med once more. Leaving Southampton, the ship calls at six ports, including Valencia, Barcelona and Cadiz before returning to the UK. On board there are four pools and the Reef, a dedicated — and free — children’s zone that promises to keep tots to teens (up to 17) entertained, with talent shows, sports coaching, the Studio cinema and retro arcades. Details 14 nights’ all-inclusive from £1,179pp, departing on August 21, 2022 ( pocruises.com )

4. Go for the Galapagos Take a trip to the otherworldly Galapagos, where fauna including Darwin’s finches and blue-footed boobies reign supreme. The 100-passenger Celebrity Flora doubles up as a floating wildlife-watching station, taking visitors on an Outer Loop itinerary that docks twice daily, letting children pad around on volcanic isles or borrow snorkels to dip beneath the blue. Send a postcard home from Post Office Bay on Floreana Island, where pirates sparked a tradition for leaving letters in a barrel, hopeful passing ships would send them on. Details Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £9,299pp, including three nights in Quito, flights and activities, departing on August 12, 2022 ( celebritycruises.com )

5. Caribbean coaster Cruise ship designers refuse to be held back when it comes to land-based thrills that can be adapted to work at sea. This year Carnival unleashed its latest ship, Mardi Gras, with a rollercoaster on board — the Bolt loops around the funnel, letting riders soak up 360-degree sea views. A jaunt around the western Caribbean in 2022, leaving Florida’s Port Canaveral, calls at Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico plus Mahogany Bay on balmy Honduras. Little ones will love the casual food options too — there’s a street food-style shack and a fried chicken joint. Details Six nights’ full board from £763pp, departing on July 30, 2022 ( carnival.com ). Fly to Miami

6. Cross the Atlantic Great for families not tied by school holidays, this 14-day pootle across the Pond in early December will see you home from New York just in time for Christmas. The Norwegian Gem leaves Barcelona and makes seven stops, including Ponta Delgada on the Azores and Bermuda. For those long middle days at sea, check little ones into Guppies nursery for under-threes, Splash Academy for under 12s and Entourage for teens up to 17. Details 13 nights’ all-inclusive from £1,017pp, departing on December 8, 2021 ( ncl.com ). Fly to Barcelona and from New York

7. Alaska bound Ploughing north from Seattle, this four-port cruise on the Crown Princess stops at Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria. The show-stealer is the midweek stop at Glacier Bay National Park. This 3,000-passenger ship has plenty to entertain children, including its Discovery at SEA and Junior Ranger Programme. Look out for humpback whales and bald eagles. Details Six nights’ full board from £1,049pp, departing on August 6, 2022 ( princess.com ). Fly to Seattle

8. Mexican magic Holland America’s Zuiderdam departs San Diego, heading for Cabo San Lucas, Pichilingue (La Paz), Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta — with excursions from the latter including the chance to board a smaller boat and spend a day spotting Pacific bottlenose dolphins. The children’s programme, Club Hal, keeps cruisers aged between three and 17 happy, with scavenger hunts, ice-cream-eating contests and gaming tournaments. Details Eight nights’ full board from £1,131pp, departing on April 13, 2022 ( hollandamerica.com ). Fly to San Diego

International travel restrictions are in place. See gov.uk for details

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I am a mom who loves all things Disney, but especially Disney Cruises! I enjoy sharing everything I have learned and hope that it will help others plan their own vacations.

Guest Trip Report: August 6, 2021 3 Night on the Disney Magic from Southampton

August 19, 2021 by Disney Cruise Mom 2 Comments

I am so excited to finally be able to bring you some trip reports! It’s been a long 18 months but cruising has finally restarted and Molly was kind enough to share her recent 3 night cruise on the Magic from Southampton! This was one of the UK Staycation “cruises to nowhere” which are only open to residents of the UK.  She sailed on August 6, 2021 and she has so much information to share.  Let’s get started!

Guest Trip Report: 3 Night on the Disney Magic from Southampton, England

I booked this cruise a few months back, and was lucky enough to be able to book a day ahead of the general public (as a silver Castaway Club member). There were 4 ports availabl: Liverpool, Southampton, London Tilbury, and Newcastle, and sailings were 2, 3 or 4 nights. 

When booking, we were torn between the 3 or 4 night sailing from Southampton. Prices swayed us, and we decided on a 3 night itinerary, in a GTY Deluxe Oceanview stateroom. Immediate excitement kicked in – this would be my first trip since Disney in 2019, before pandemic times! 

 Know Before You Go

Keep in mind that the following information applies ONLY to the UK Staycation at Sea sailings as of 8/6/2021.  Requirements are constantly changing, and the US sailings out of Port Canaveral on the Disney Dream and Fantasy have a completely different set of requirements.  Please visit the Disney Cruise Line website for the most current sailing requirements.

In order to sail, all guests over the age of 18 must be fully vaccinated against COVID. Guests under 18 are not required to be vaccinated, however they must provide a negative PCR test taken up to 5 days before travel. This must be at the guest’s expense, and an average cost was around £70. Once at the port, all guests must also take a rapid antigen test, which is paid for by Disney. 

Disney has implemented a rule that masks must be worn in all indoor areas, unless in our stateroom or actively eating or drinking. There is also a virtual queuing system set up on the navigator app for things such as using the pool, and character experiences.*

There have also been a lot of changes in terms of what Disney is doing to promote super-duper hygiene, such as enhanced cleaning, especially focusing on high touch areas, and removing loose soft furnishings from rooms. 

*Update:  a week before my sailing Disney changed this rule, to just having an onboard queuing system

Onboard Activities 

I was able to browse our onboard activities 90 days prior to sailing, and at this time, most activities had availability! 

Of course the options aren’t as numerous as a usual cruise, but those that were available are:

Photo Packages

Disney Dreams Show in the Walt Disney theatre **

Shutters Portrait Studio 

Youth Activities **

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique  

Royal Court Tea

Various alcohol tastings *

*note – whilst the legal age to drink alcohol in the UK is 18, the age on the cruise is still 21.

**these activities were only bookable during the 30 day window, and did not cost anything but had to be reserved in advance. 

I decided to take advantage of the sea days and book all of the activities I haven’t had time for on previous cruises! I booked a mixology class ($25), and Palo brunch ($45).

Interesting fact: the ship will still charge in USD. Disney has introduced a 2% on board credit for all charges to stateroom accounts that are paid using credit cards to cover the conversion rate. 

Initially when I booked, there was an assumption that Senses Spa would be closed.  But, a few weeks later, spa sessions opened up and all were available to book (although some did sell out pretty fast!). 

No treatments were longer than 1 hour, and there were no facial options. 

I booked a Swedish massage, and and also a hot stone massage. The Rainforest Room will also be open, however this can only be reserved once onboard. 

Some of the notable restrictions for the spa is that masks must be worn throughout the treatment, and shower facilities are not available, so we must arrive ready for our treatment. 

Proof of Vaccination 

As I mentioned above, all adults (18+) must be fully vaccinated in order to sail. We had to upload proof of vaccination from 33 days out from travelling. 

To do this, I had to create an account with a third party called Prenetics, and set up a profile for each person, and upload an image of our vaccine cards/certificates. These were approved within a few hours. 

Online Check in Day 

Online check in opened 30 days before our sailing, at 5 am UK time (I think this would be midnight EST). I set my alarm and woke up bright and early. Luckily, I had prepared the night before and had photographs of my travel party, and our IDs in advance. 

I was checked in within 17 minutes, but I hear from others that the website crashed shortly after this! 

To check in I needed to provide name, date of birth and contact details for everyone in my travel party. One person could do this, so I did it for both myself and my mum. Because it’s a UK sailing, we were able to use our drivers licence for ID instead of a passport, and had to upload photos of each of these. 

We then had to upload a passport style photo for security and identification. 

Then it prompted us to upload payment details for onboard account, however you are able to select cash if you prefer, or come back to this later  (which is what I decided to do, to expedite the process when I knew the site would be busy!)

Due to the pandemic, the port arrival times are very strict for these sailings. I was super lucky and able to select the earliest port arrival time of 12:45, and group 2 for boarding. I was emailed a port arrival time document that I had to print and take with me on the day of sailing. 

I was also able book our Walt Disney Theatre arrival time*. There are 4 showings of Disney Dreams during our 3 night sailing: an early and late show on the first and third night. Disney implemented a rule that we are only able to book one show per sailing, and actively encouraged people to make sure the show time corresponded with their dinner seating . I’m booked on the late dinner seating, so reserved the early show which starts at 5:45. The arrival times are staggered, so I could select a 5:00, 5:15, or 5:30 arrival. 

*Disney removed this system a week before my sailing

The kids and youth clubs were also available to book on this day, however I’m travelling with my mum so we didn’t need to do this. 

Other things I had to arrange prior to sailing:

Travel Insurance

Despite not technically leaving the UK, Disney really encouraged purchasing travel insurance for the trip. Due to it only being 3 nights, and not leaving the UK,  this wasn’t a big expense at all and I think cost me less than £10 for an individual adult. 

Pre-sail Hotel 

I live around 2.5 hours drive from the port, so we decided to stay the night before in the city. We booked to stay at the Ibis Southampton Central. This was in a convenient location, had parking available for the night, and was a reasonable cost. We opted to add breakfast as we didn’t know what time we would be able to board, or if Cabanas would be open.

Cruise Parking 

One thing I LOVE about these sailings is the convenience of being able to drive to them! Southampton port is particularly great, because the terminal has its own car park that is RIGHT next to the ship! We paid £56 for the sailing, and the booking experience was super simple and easy. 

Room Allocation

We booked a GTY room which meant we didn’t get to choose our stateroom number, but that we would be guaranteed at least a category 9B or above. We booked Oceanview, and then our room was assigned around 2 weeks prior to sailing and it was upgraded to a category 6A Deluxe Verandah room! 

Also around a week prior to sailing, Disney sent an email announcement explaining that we no longer needed to book seating for the musical, nor would there be a virtual queuing system for the pool. I think this is because of the easing of restrictions in England. It also looked like Disney released more rooms at this time too! 

Two days before sailing Disney also announced that there would be an additional show on our sailing (WOO!), so now we will also be able to see Tangled the Musical in addition to Disney Dreams. 

Day 1 – Travelling to Southampton

We weren’t in any rush to get to Southampton, so we packed up and left at around 3:15. Southampton is usually around a 2.5 hour drive from home, but we hit a little traffic because of the horrendous weather, and arrived at the Ibis Southampton Central at 6:00.

Check in was quick, and we paid the £10 charge to park for the night. Our room was very basic, but functional and comfortable. It’s around a 1 minute drive to the port in the morning, so location is perfect.

For dinner we went in to the West Quay Shopping Center and ate at Ed’s Easy Diner. The food was really good! It felt quite strange going out, as it’s the first time my mum and I have been out in England since practically all COVID restrictions had been lifted. Masks aren’t required anymore, but we chose to wear them still to be cautious.

After dinner and an amazing milkshake we headed back to our room for a good night sleep. Our good night sleep was disturbed slightly by the fire alarm going off in the hotel. Someone a few rooms down had set it off in their room. It was quickly fixed and we managed to get some sleep! Breakfast in the hotel tomorrow before boarding the ship! YAY!

Up Next:   Day 1 – Boarding the Disney Magic!

August 20, 2021 at 1:41 pm

I’ve missed reading trip reports! Can’t wait to see the other posts!

August 22, 2021 at 7:37 am

Thanks Trisha! I am so excited to be doing them again!

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Disney Magic

Cruise line Disney Cruise Line

• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida)
• Galveston (Texas)
• New Orleans (Port NOLA Louisiana)

Disney Magic current position

Disney Magic current location is at Gulf of Mexico (coordinates 27.82540 N / -92.54014 W) cruising at speed of 17.7 kn (33 km/h | 20 mph) en route to USGLS>MXCZM. The AIS position was reported 7 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Disney Magic

Disney Magic current cruise is 5 days, round-trip Western Caribbean Cruise From Galveston . Prices start from USD 2380 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 09 Apr, 2024 and ends on 14 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of Disney Magic

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Disney Magic Itineraries

Disney magic review, review of disney magic.

The 1998-built MS Disney Magic cruise ship is Walt Disney 's first (oldest) liner with sistership Disney Wonder (1999).

The vessel (IMO number 9126807) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 308516000) 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 1750-passenger ship Disney Magic provides some of the best sea travel vacation experiences. And just like all Disney businesses, the ship's primary market are families with small children (mostly kids younger than 8) - the major revenue provider for the Walt Disney company. However, on Disney Magic, you'll also find many passengers traveling without kids.

The ever first Disney ship, Magic was launched in 1998 to serve the special preferences of a new generation Disney package vacation fun fans. The Disney Magic ship design resembles the 1920's luxurious ocean liners, but what really makes this vessel worthy of its Disney name are all the Disney characters, special facilities, and unique fun activities on-board, along with the greatest kids programs at sea, the most Magic-al deck parties, and excellent service.

The CLIENTELE consists almost entirely of USA and Canada Disney cruise fun fans. The new Disney approach to children by age-related activities and specially dedicated onboard venues makes all ships mostly appealing for multi-generational travelers.

Disney Magic DRESS CODE - day casual and evening resort casual, meaning for men - jackets (no ties) and pants, and for women - summer dresses (no swimwear-shorts-jeans in the main restaurants at dinner). All Disney Magic 7-day sailings include one formal and one semi-formal night.

Disney Magic TIPS (totaling US $12 PP per day, automatically charged to guests' shipboard accounts), given to $8 waiters (dining room server $4, assistant server $3, head server $1) and $4 to cabin attendants. Additionally, a 15% gratuity is included on all bar drinks and onboard service areas.

Decks and Cabins

Most Disney Magic staterooms (877 total, in 22 grades) are 225-260-ft2 Balconies. The ship has 22 Suites, 362 Balcony, 235 Oceanview and 256 Inside cabins. The largest accommodations are Royal Suites (845 ft2 / 79 m2 plus 185 ft2 / 17 m2 terrace).

The ever-first Disney ship Magic boasts elegant Art Deco decorations of public spaces and a most affordable luxury in all its staterooms, of which even the standard cabins are designed as mini-suites (separate bedroom and living areas).

All Disney Magic cabins are designed with families in mind - some of the most spacious and most elegant at sea, and of course - with "Mickeys" everywhere. Cabins are quiet and offer comfortable privacy, appealing to both families and people traveling without youngsters. Even the standard Disney Magic cabins boast a separate bedroom and a living area (common to mini-suite accommodations of other brands), 2 beds convertible to a queen, the living room including a convertible sofa (an option for 3rd single bed); many cabins also have bunk beds (for a 4th person).

Disney Magic family cruise cabins for families of 5 have a Murphy bed. Plenty of drawers, a closet with sliding doors, a desk-dressing table, a smart HDTV, electronic safe bos, 2 portable "Wave Phones" (with texting capabilities and coverage throughout the ship and on Castaway island).

A unique feature of all Disney cruise cabins are the split-bathrooms ("bath and a half" configurations) - one with a toilet and a sink, the other with tub-shower-sink (the cheapest insides with a single bath 1 sink). Decent bathroom amenities (soap-shampoo-conditioner-lotion), a hairdryer.

All Disney Magic suites are located on Deck 8 and feature concierge service, deluxe design elements, huge Jacuzzis, better quality mattresses and large verandas (among the additional amenities are robes, slippers, and a vanity pack).

The boat has 11 decks , of which 6 are with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Disney Magic dining options include 3 main restaurants with the most fun rotational dining scheme (whatever the restaurant, your table number is the same, as well as companions and servers), a traditional 2-seating (at 5:45 and 8:15 pm, the earlier cater to the youngest kids). The traditional "Lumiere's" restaurant is decorated Art Deco (French menu), the "Animator's Palate" boast special light effects and video LED screens, and the "Carioca's" is a Caribbean-themed dining room with the most fun waiters and decorated in beautiful bright colors (this restaurant is also available for breakfast-lunch buffets).

The Disney Magic ship food experience features ample portions (everything is on-board made), with several choices of salads and fresh vegetables, a great variety of seafood, meats, pasta, and naturally, a separate kids menu is available.

Casual dining onboard is called "Cabanas" (a buffet restaurant, located high up and aft (overlooking the stern, a great outdoor dining option). Deck 9 offers 3 fast-food stations - the "Pete's Boiler Bites", the "Pinocchio's Pizzeria" and the "Daisy's De-Lites".

Specialty dining options are offered at "Palo" (an adults-only fine restaurant (costs extra, located on Deck 10; reservations are required, it's a relatively small venue, so early booking is advisable). Italian (Med) cuisine, including superb fish and seafood dishes, the brunch here offers Champagne and cold buffet with seafood and meats, great salads and desserts, and hot made-to-order selections (eggs-meat-fish).

The room service menu is simple (cold sandwiches, salads, hot dogs, burgers, lasagna, pizza, cookies), the service is fast, and suite guests enjoy hot breakfast and dining room meals options. Free drinks (Coca-Cola products) are also available at meals and at the 24-hour drink pavilion (Deck 9 aft).

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

• Lumiere's Restaurant (471-seat forward Dining Room; with two open Dinner servings - 5:30 p.m.-6 p.m. and 8 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; on 7+ day cruises features Gala Dessert Buffet)
• Carioca's / Parrot Cay Restaurant (471-seat aft Dining Room with South American and Brazilian specialties for dinner)
• Animator's Palate Restaurant (471- 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.)
• Cabanas (self-service complimentary restaurant with American cuisine, pasta, sushi)
• Pinocchio's Pizzeria (outdoor complimentary restaurant, poolside)
• Pete's Boiler Bites (fast food outdoor eatery; Lunch and Dinner)
• Daisy's De-Lites (outdoor fast-food eatery, poolside)
• Palo (116-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 Magic ship public rooms are nothing short to amazing. The "Walt Disney" Theater has a capacity of 977 seats and offers live performances and huge Disney productions (like Broadway-style musicals and classy review shows) on a 2-deck-high rotational stage. The "Buena Vista" Theater is smaller (showing Disney movies). Most of the ship's public spaces are on Decks 3-4-5. The most famous are: the Promenade Lounge (family-friendly, great music), Studio Sea (game shows, exhibitions, karaoke), the Atrium (a great place to meet Disney characters for an autograph, the place for the Captain's cocktail party and for Disney pin trading), 3 shops (on Deck 4 are "Mickey's Mates" (Disney memorabilia and postcards) and "Treasure Ketch" (logos, jewelry, watches), and the duty-free "Up Beat" is on Deck 3 (perfumes, liquor). The pool deck's adult section has a coffee house - the Cove Cafe (specialty coffees, bar drinks).

Like all Disney ships, the Magic has no casino (there's bingo with good jackpots). One of the features that make the Magic ship a special place to be is the deck parties, the highlight being "The Pirates in the Caribbean" Party - a great, most attended by all age groups themed Disney ship cruise fun.

Naturally, most of the shipboard entertainment is Disney themed (like the goldies "Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story", "Villains Tonight!" and the "Disney Dreams") with all the feature Disney characters). And there are Disney movies, including first-runs (shown in the ship's two theaters "Buena Vista" and "Walt Disney") and Disney 3D movies.

In lounges and clubs, there are numerous family activities during the day - dance parties, bingo, pirate quests, shuffleboard and video games tournaments, all kinds of contests, pool games, family karaoke, dance lessons, talent shows. Between dinner times, there is a short family-friendly cabaret show, with its adult version after hours.

Most of the adult-themed activities are at night for guests ages 18-25, like "Match Your Mate", "Singles' Mingle" and "College Club Social". The Magic ship's adult-only daytime programs are 3: the "Navigating the Seas" series (lectures and video info about the ship), the "Disney Behind the Scenes" series (about the "know-how" of Disney specials - from food to entertainment) and the "Art of Entertaining" series, all of which are at no additional charge (for wine tastings there's a $12 charge, $15 for martini and margarita tastings).

MS Disney Magic kids cruise programs are the main reason for the Disney Magic line's high loyalty guests ratio. Designed with families in mind, there are several huge areas onboard, designated for kids with activities for every age level. All kids ages 3-10 have access to 2 interconnected club areas - the Oceaneer's "Club" (7-10 yo) and "Lab" (8-12 yo).

Kids clubs occupy an enormous space resembling a pirate ship, with PCs and TV monitors cloaked in treasure chests, and fun activities like cooking classes, games and contests, food-fests and pool parties. "Edge" is the tweens' club (11-13 yo) with PC and PS games, arts and crafts, and a bridge simulator for navigating a ship. The teen-only area (14-17 yo) is called "Vibe" (located in a funnel midship) - a special lounge with huge couches, flat TVs and video games, other hit activities are the dance parties and the karaoke. All kids programs (age 3+) are complimentary.

"It's A Small World" ship nursery (babies 3 months to 3 years of age) is at an additional cost of $6 per hour ($5 for the 2nd child). An online service allows guests to order from over 1,000 "Babies Travel Lite" products in advance of their sailing (delivered to their cabin). All services are also available on Castaway Cay. All Disney children counselors are college educated, well experienced and attentive.

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

• Walt Disney Magic Theatre (977-seat, 3-decks high; offers live shows, aerial acrobatics performances, grand-style productions, 3D movies; with two evening shows - at 6:15 pm and 8:30 pm)
• Magic's Atrium (3-deck high central ship area, featuring custom-made carpet, new furnishings, art deco chandelier, grand piano, and large portholes, with "Helmsman Mickey" bronze statue)
• After Hours/Beat Street (3 clubs' entertainment district, adults only after 9 p.m.; Fathom, Keys and O'Gill's Pub)
• Fathom Lounge Disco & Nightclub
• Keys (adults-only piano bar, features handcrafted cocktails)
• O'Gill's Pub (sports bar, with large TVs and live music)
• Mickey's Mates; Mickey's Mainsail (Disney brand logo shops for postcards, souvenirs, DVDs, toys, clothes, games)
• Sea Treasures (duty-free crystal, brand jewelry, watches, precious stones, Disney merchandise, underwear, sport, and swimming apparel); Quacks (Disney logo swimwear, T-shirts, towels)
• Up Beat (duty-free brand jewelry, perfumes, liquor, and tobaccos); Treasure Ketch (duty-free shop); Whitecaps (Disney logo goods)
• Promenade Lounge (104-seat family venue with full bar service, specialty coffees, and drinks; with the Internet Cafe)
• Studio Sea (game shows, exhibitions, karaoke)
• Buena Vista Theatre (268-seat 4D cinema, features 3D movies, Dolby Surround 7.1, and Dolby 3D movie technology)
• Preludes Bar (quick wait-service snacks and beverages bar)
• Shutters PhotoShop (photo packages, accessories, photographic services); Vista Gallery
• D Lounge Bar & Nightclub
• Vibe Disco & Club Lounge (teens only)
• It's A Small World Nursery (for 3 months to 3 yo infants and toddlers; reservations required)
• Magic's Oceaneer Club (kids 3-12 yo; with four play areas with themes from Disney films); Magic's Oceaneer Lab (play area for kids 3-12 yo)
• Senses Spa & Fitness Complex (with Treatment Salon, Roman Bath, Sauna, Relaxation Room; Fitness Centre /health and wellbeing seminars; Beauty Salon)
• Senses Spa Villas (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)
• Cove Cafe (adult-only, with large LED TV screen; Wi-Fi spot)
• Signals Bar (adults-only bar for snacks and beverages, poolside)
• Eye Scream Treats Bar (complimentary ice cream, poolside)
• Frozone Treats (iced fruit smoothies bar, poolside)
• Eye Scream Treats (Monsters Inc themed ice cream parlor)
• Goofy's Family Pool; Mickey's Pool; Nephews' Splash Zone; AquaDunk Water Slide; AquaLab (kids interactive water play area)
• Quarter Masters (video games arcade)
• Edge Lounge (11-14 yo teens-only club area, with a giant video wall, interactive games, Internet)
• 24x14ft Outdoor LED movie screen
• Wide World of Sports Court (basketball, volleyball, soccer)
• Radio Studio (live radio programs for Disney Magic itinerary-related news and onboard events)
• Outlook Bar (retreat area with a piano and full bar; hosts weddings receptions).

Following drydock 2023 refurbishment, Disney Magic now has a new venue - Soul Cat Lounge, themed after Disney's computer-animated film "Soul" (2020).

The Soul Cat Lounge (near Rapunzel's Royal Table restaurant/aft on deck 3) is designed to resemble Half Note Lounge from the movie (Joe Gardner's favorite music spot). The venue is music-themed, with a classic NYC jazz club ambiance and an interior featuring brick walls, wooden accents, comfortable leather seating (surrounding a stage for live music performances in the evenings), Pixar-themed artworks (record labels, concert posters, portraits of Dorothea Williams and her bandmates), music-themed design elements (record players, instruments, Joe Gardner's hat). Table-side are served local brews, signature cocktails (made with New York spirits), a selection of mocktails, brand coffees, sodas, zeppoles (Italian fried doughnuts).

The new production show "An Encanto Celebration" allows guests to engage in music, crafts, and storytelling alongside La Familia Madrigal (family from the Encanto movie). The experience includes meeting and taking photos with Mirabel and Bruno, a sing-along of Encanto songs, creating movie-inspired butterflies and flower crafts. During the show, guests can also enjoy a selection of Colombian beers, cocktails, sodas, film-inspired mocktails.

Itineraries

Disney Magic itinerary program is based on Caribbean and Bahamas roundtrips departing from PortMiami Florida USA , all visiting the DCL's private Bahamian island Castaway Cay .

In September 2020, the liner had planned a European (UK and Ireland) season with 7-day roundtrips from homeport Dover visiting Plymouth , Cork , Liverpool , Greenock , Dublin .

Following the Coronavirus crisis, for summer 2021 (June-September), the ship was scheduled to operate cruises-to-nowhere (mostly 2-3-night plus limited 4-night roundtrips) from homeports London-Tilbury , Liverpool , Newcastle , and Southampton . These unique for DCL itineraries (called "Sea Staycations") were open for booking by UK residents-only and without any call ports.

In fall 2022 the ship operated 7-day NYC to Bermuda (Kings Wharf) itineraries. Since November 2022, Disney Magic is homeported in Galveston Texas for short-breaks (4-night and 5-night) to Mexico's Cozumel and Progreso .

On February 18, 2023, started Disney Magic's homeporting in NOLA/New Orleans Louisiana . The program (run though April 10th) was based on 4-5-6-day roundtrip Western Caribbean itineraries visiting Cozumel (4-day), Cozumel plus Costa Maya (5-day) and Cozumel plus Grand Cayman/George Town Harbour (6-day).

Disney Magic - user reviews and comments

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Other Disney Cruise Line cruise ships

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Disney Magic Wiki

The Walt Disney ship Magic is company's first-ever liner, followed by sistership Disney Wonder . Each vessel is 40% smaller in size compared to the 2 newer Disney ships Dream and Fantasy . The inaugural cruise/Maiden Voyage started on July 30, 1998. Ship's Godmother was Patricia Disney (1935-2012) - wife of Roy Edward Disney (1930-2009) who was a senior executive (Vice Chairman and Chairman) for The Walt Disney Company in the period 1954-2009.

The vessel (Fincantieri Marghera yard/hull number 5989) is powered by Wartsila-Sulzer marine diesel engines (model 16ZAV40S) with total power output 58,25 MW. The propulsion system is diesel-electric.

Fun fact is that MS Disney Magic held the record for paying the highest-ever regular Panama Canal passing toll (exactly USD 331,200). However, the record was beaten later by the Princess Cruises ship Coral Princess (USD 400,000).

Outside, the vessel looks like an ocean liner from the early-20th century. Interior decorations are influenced by both Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. On Magic debuted many of Disney's Marvel superheroes - a really thrilling experience for the youngest passengers.

Disney Magic refurbishments review

Disney Magic was last drydock-refurbished in 2023 (April 15 thru May 4) at Grand Bahama Shipyard in Freeport .

The 3-week refurbishment included general maintenance works and machinery overhauls, as well as renovation of passenger cabins and public spaces. During the drydock, the Concierge Lounge was redesigned and all concierge staterooms (plus the Royal Suites) were completely refurbished with new fixtures, furniture, artworks.

A new music-themed venue (decorated in themes from Disney's computer-animated film "Soul"/2020) was created - Soul Cat Lounge (aft on deck 3). Also were introduced new movie-themed entertainment programs for families as well as the "An Encanto Celebration" production show (themed on Disney's animation film "Encanto"/2021).

During drydock 2023 was also installed shore power connectivity  allowing the ship to plug in and use the port city's power grid electricity for all onboard services while berthed.

Drydock 2019

During the refurbishment in 2019 were added Rapunzel's Royal Table (themed restaurant/aft on deck 3), the teen club was transformed, Cove Cafe (adults-only venue) was redesigned and Club Disney Junior (lounge part of Disney's Oceaneer Club) was added.

Also was redesigned the Rainforest Room in the adults-only Senses Spa (steam and hydrotherapy).

Drydock 2015

The refurbishment in 2015 (September 5-18, in Cadiz) was for extensive renovations (restaurants, bars, spa, atrium, staterooms, kids area), Dream-class concepts (waterslide starting near the funnel's top and swinging out over the side of the ship), lighting/audio upgrades.

The project also included general maintenance works and propulsion system upgrade.

Drydock 2013

The list of deck plan changes after the ship's 6-week long drydock 2013 refurbishment in Cadiz Spain (September 7 through October 10, at Navantia's Puerto Real Shipyard) included:

• AquaDunk (new waterslide), AquaLab (interactive water play area with the Twist n’ Spout waterslide)
• Animator’s Palette restaurant (ex-Studio C) with new flat TVs, lights, walls, speakers
• new Carioca’s (Brazilian-themed restaurant replacing Parrot Cay)
• new Cabanas (replacing Topsider Buffet, hugely enlarged)
• Palo (renovations- new fixtures, glass artwork, stone floor)
• Mickey’s Mainsail (new shop)
• (Deck 3) After Hours district now with the Fathoms (disco club), Keys (piano bar, replacing Cadillac Bar) and O’Gills (Irish pub)
• expanded Senses Spa (by 725 ft2), now with Barbershop, Chill Spa and Smile Spa
• shop upgrades (Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Anna & Elsa’s Boutique)
• "It's a Small World Nursery", "Nephews"
• renovated and redesigned passenger rooms (elevated beds for more storage space)
• Lobby Atrium changes (2nd staircase removed, the Chihuly chandelier replaced with an Art Deco one)

Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab changes - now with Marvel's Avengers Academy (the first on a Disney ship), Andy's Room (now has the Slinky Dog slide, Mr. Potato Head and Hamm the piggy bank), also changed are the interiors of the rooms Pixie Hollow, and the Mickey Mouse Club.

The Edge (teen club) was relocated (from deck 2 to deck 9), its area was expanded and the amenities there were enhanced (new gaming stations, dance floor).

Also were conducted general maintenance of all mechanical systems, hull and interior painting, piping, propulsion system upgrade (for reducing fuel consumption). 400+ contract workers were employed for all the refurb jobs.

Service history/itineraries review (1998-2016)

Follows the ship's concise service history (former itineraries):

• [1998-2005] 7-day Caribbean from Port Canaveral (Orlando) Florida
• [2005-2012] relocated to San Diego CA
• [2012-2013] relocated to NYC New York and sailing from there to the Bahamas, Canada/New England
• [2013 June] relocated to Europe ( Barcelona ) for the summer season, also receiving a 6-week extensive refurbishment. After the 2013 Transatlantic crossing started departures out of Miami FL , later was repositioned back to Orlando.

In 2016, Disney deployed the Magic ship in Europe. For the first time ever, Disney offered UK cruise departures (from Dover England) to ports in Baltic Sea (incl Norwegian Fjords), Iceland, UK (British Isles). Throughout 2016 summer, the ship operated in the Western Mediterranean (leaving from Barcelona ). After that followed a 12-day Transatlantic repositioning to NYC for round-trip cruises to Canada (5-6-day to New England - Saint John NB and Halifax NS) and 8-9-day to Florida-Bahamas (visiting Port Canaveral, Nassau, and the private island Castaway Cay).

Very Merrytime Disney Christmas Cruise Review

Are you looking for reviews from a Disney Very Merrytime Christmas sailing? My family and I sailed during the month of December on the Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Magic.

Since this itinerary was themed as one of the Very Merrytime cruises, we were able to experience extra special Christmas decorations and activities while onboard. Sailing on one of these Merrytime voyages is a great way to experience the magic of the holidays.

With festive holiday decor, themed food, Christmas activities, holiday merchandise, and more, the Disney Christmas cruises in November and December are a great time of year to set sail.

In this post, I’ll walk you through all the fun entertainment options that go along with Disney Cruise Line’s Christmas cruises so that you can enjoy a magical holiday too. We’ll discuss the Christmas decor, shows, and activities you’ll find while cruising with Disney on a Very Merrytime Christmas cruise during the holiday season!

Disney Christmas Cruise Information

Before you book a Disney Christmas cruise, you may be wondering what happens on the Very Merrytime cruises. Disney Cruise Line goes all out in their holiday decorations and entertainment.

They even turn their private island in the Bahamas into a winter wonderland! While on a Disney Christmas cruise, some of the themed activities you could find include:

Disney Characters in Holiday Attire

Guests on a holiday themed Disney cruise are able to enjoy their favorite Disney characters dressed up in their holiday best. You’ll have lots of opportunities to pose for photos with Mickey Mouse and the gang in their festive Christmas outfits no matter which of the Disney ships you choose to sail.

Holiday Fireworks

Disney Cruise Line provides so many magical moments at sea, but one of my family’s favorite things is the fireworks show. During the Christmas cruise sailings, DCL features a festive fireworks display complete with Christmas music that’s sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Christmas Stories with Mrs. Claus

Story Time with Mrs. Claus is a super cute event that occurs on select days of the Disney Christmas cruise. Kids love sitting in the beautifully decorated atrium near the ship’s Christmas tree to listen to Mrs. Claus read a Christmas story.

Christmas Crafts

If you check out your personal navigator or Disney Cruise Line app while on the ship, you should see lots of options for holiday crafting like creating gingerbread houses. And don’t forget to check out the life-sized gingerbread house in the atrium!

Christmas on Disney Castaway Cay

Disney Cruise Line doesn’t just go all-out on the Christmas decoration on the ship, they decorate their private island too! As you disembark in Castaway Cay, you’ll notice a giant Christmas tree, snow flurries, wreaths, and snowmen.

Mickey’s Tree Lighting Magic Ceremony

During the first night of our cruise, guests were welcomed into the lobby atrium for the official tree-lighting ceremony. Mickey and friends dance and sing to popular holiday songs as the giant tree is lit.

Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball

Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball typically occurs later in the evening on holiday cruises. Cruisers will get to experience Mickey and friends introducing their special guests. Santa Clause and Mrs. Claus, to the ship.

Santa Meet and Greet

Another special holiday extra is a special visit from Santa Claus himself! You’ll want to get in line early for this character meet and greet as the lines get long quickly. It’s all worth it once you meet Santa though.

Caribbean Weather in Winter

You may be wondering what the weather in the Caribbean is like during the Disney Christmas cruises. The truth is that the temperature can fluctuate each day, but we’ve always lucked out with warm weather.

↓↓ Visit My Etsy Shop ↓↓

Although the temps are obviously cooler during the months of November and December, you can still often swim and sunbathe without feeling cold. In fact, I strolled my toddler around the Disney Magic jogging track at around 5:30 each morning of our last December cruise.

The temperature was perfect (around 70 degrees) outside during these walks even though the sun hadn’t even come up yet. Additionally, our stops at Castaway Cay and Grand Cayman both produced sunny skies with temps in the mid 80’s and really warm ocean water.

Is a Disney Christmas Cruise Worth It?

We always have an amazing time on a Disney Cruise Line vacation. The Very Merrytime Christmas activities made the trip even more special. The Disney Magic cruise ship looked so magical lit up with holiday decor.

And the Christmas decorations at Castaway Cay were icing on the cake! No matter which ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet you are sailing, the whole family will have a blast experiencing the Christmas season with a hint of tropical flair.

Since we lucked out with balmy temperatures and beautiful weather in December, we totally think a Disney Very Merrytime Christmas cruise is worth it!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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The Disney Cruise Line Blog

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Disney Cruise Line Announces New Disney Magic at Sea Staycation Itineraries for Summer 2021

Today, Disney Cruise Line released the NEW itineraries for the recently announced Disney Magic at Sea staycations sailings which will go on sale to the general public on April 30, 2021 with tiered early booking starting on April 28, 2021. United Kingdom residents will be able to experience the magic of Disney Cruise Line close to home with brand-new Disney Magic at Sea staycation sailings from U.K. ports. This is important, these Disney Magic at Sea staycations are exclusive to UK residents . These limited time sailings will feature enchanted entertainment with multiple layers of health and safety measures. The Disney Magic is scheduled to sail a variety of itineraries including 2- and 3-night voyages, as well as limited 4-night sailings round-trip from  Liverpool ,  Southampton , Newcastle , and London Tilbury .

After some modifications to the previous information , Disney Cruise Line is once again offering sailings from Newcastle and London, but on different dates.

If you’re currently a Platinum, Gold or Silver Castaway Club member, take advantage of the opportunity to book our new UK staycation sailings before they go on sale to the general public on April 30, 2021. Book by phone during a designated window.

• 28th April 2021: Platinum Members, starting at 9:00 AM (UK time) by dedicated Platinum phone number 0800 328 2090 —or contact your travel agent
• 28th April 2021: Gold Members, starting at 9:00 AM (UK time) by dedicated Gold phone number 0800 389 9298 —or contact your travel agent
• 29th April 2021: Silver Members starting at 9:00 AM (UK time) by phone 0800 171 2317 —or contact your travel agent
• 30th April 2021: All Guests starting at 9:00 AM (UK time). Book online at disneycruise.co.uk, by phone 0800 171 2317 —or contact your travel agent

If you’re currently a Golden Oak Club Member, Disney Vacation Club Member or an Adventure Insider with Adventures by Disney, you’re invited to enjoy the exclusive opportunity to book our new cruises before they go on sale to the general public on 30th April 2021.

• 28th April 2021: Golden Oak Club Members, starting at 9:00 AM (UK time) by contacting Golden Oak Club Member Services
• 29th April 2021: Disney Vacation Club Members can make a cash-only booking starting at 9:00 AM (UK time) by calling 0800 171 2317; to book with Reservation Points, call Member Services at 0800 783 2893 beginning at 2:00 PM BST—or contact your travel agent
• 29th April 2021: Adventure Insiders starting at 9:00 AM BST by calling 0800 171 2317  —or contact your travel agent

Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.

Along with the itinerary announcement, Disney Cruise Line included some important information on their commitment to health and safety. Disney is making it known to guests, that upon reopening, certain onboard venues may be limited in capacity and subject to restricted availability or even closure based on guidance from UK government, health authorities and medical experts. Furthermore, certain experiences, services and amenities may be modified, have limited availability or remain closed. Subject to government approval. Disney will provide more information as it becomes available. 

Disney Cruise Line is implementing multiple layers of health and safety measures considering the guidance from the UK government, health authorities and medical experts. Disney Cruise Line’s approach brings together 5 elements that help promote health and safety for all Guests and Crew Members.

• Health & Wellness – Our approach emphasizes a combination of health and safety measures. This includes COVID-19 testing, health screenings, face coverings, reduced Guest capacity and physical distancing.
• Cleaning & Disinfecting – Disney Cruise Line is operating at elevated cleaning and sanitation levels, with an emphasis on high-touch surfaces.
• Innovative Technology – We’re harnessing the power of the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to promote health and safety.
• Crew Member Training – Safety starts with our Crew, so we’ve adopted a number of new policies and practices.
• Working Together – We’re giving Guests the resources they need to navigate our new policies and do their part.

It is important to check Disney Cruise Line’s website regularly as they will continue to refine and share additional details in the future.

Below you will find a breakout of the new Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycations for 2021, but this is a  work in progress . I will be updating the website throughout the day as I load the sailings and upload the new itinerary maps. The best way to be alerted to updates is by following me on Twitter  @TheDCLblog  – I will tweet updates as they are posted. At the very end, is Disney Cruise Line’s full Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycations Itinerary Announcement .

Disney Magic at Sea Summer 2021 Sailings

Liverpool, england.

With convenient transportation links, Liverpool is known for its historic sites, celebrated architecture, fabulous food and rock and roll! Depart on 2-, 3- and limited 4-night cruises on selected dates from 15th July to 30th July.

2-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Liverpool Liverpool, England • At Sea 7/18/21

3-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Liverpool Liverpool, England • At Sea • At Sea 7/15/21 ,  7/20/21 ,  7/27/21 ,  7/30/21

4-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Liverpool Liverpool, England • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea 7/23/21

Southampton

One of England’s major ports, Southampton has been called Britain’s “Gateway to the World” and offers everything from a fascinating history to modern art. Depart on 2-, 3- and limited 4-night cruises on selected dates from 4th August to 30th August.

2-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Southampton Southampton • At Sea 8/4/21 ,  8/16/21 ,  8/18/21 ,  8/30/21

3-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Southampton Southampton • At Sea • At Sea 8/6/21 ,  8/13/21 ,  8/20/21 ,  8/27/21

4-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Southampton Southampton • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea 8/9/21 ,  8/23/21

Newcastle, England

From its engineering marvels to its scenic gardens, Newcastle is one of England’s greatest cultural centres, and easy to reach from Glasgow and Edinburgh. Depart on 2- and 3-night cruises on selected dates from 3rd September to 11th September.

2-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Newcastle Newcastle, England • At Sea 9/6/21 ,  9/11/21

3-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Newcastle Newcastle, England • At Sea • At Sea 9/3/21 ,  9/8/21

Tilbury (London)

Situated on the north shore of the River Thames, Tilbury (aka ‘the quay to the capital’) is less than 30 miles away from the iconic sights and sounds of London. Depart on 2- and 3-night cruises on selected dates from 14th September to 1st October.

2-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from London Tilbury Tilbury (London) • At Sea 9/20/21 ,  9/22/21 ,  9/27/21 ,  9/29/21

3-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from London Tilbury Tilbury (London) • At Sea • At Sea 9/14/21 ,  9/17/21 ,  9/24/21 ,  10/1/21

Full Disney Cruise Line Disney Magic at Sea Itineraries and Departure Dates Announcement

Below is the copy of the details published on Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycations webpage ( archived PDF ) which details the new sail dates.

This summer, set sail on a unique Disney staycation at sea aboard 2-, 3- and limited 4-night cruises from the UK. Departing on select dates from Liverpool, Southampton, Newcastle and London Tilbury aboard the Disney Magic, our new staycation sailings—exclusive to UK residents—invite you to embark on a brand-new, memorable Disney experience.

Advance Booking for Castaway Club Members

If you’re currently a Platinum, Gold or Silver Castaway Club member, take advantage of the opportunity to book our new UK staycation sailings before they go on sale to the general public on 30th April 2021. Book by phone during a designated window.

When to Book

Advance Booking for Select Disney Guests

2-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Liverpool: 18th July 

Day 1: Departure from Liverpool, England  Day 2: At Sea  Day 3: Return to Liverpool, England 

3-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Liverpool: 15th July, 20th July, 27th July, 30th July 

Day 1: Departure from Liverpool, England  Day 2: At Sea  Day 3: At Sea  Day 4: Return to Liverpool, England 

4-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Liverpool: 23rd July 

Day 1: Departure from Liverpool, England  Day 2: At Sea  Day 3: At Sea  Day 4: At Sea  Day 5: Return to Liverpool, England

Southampton, England

2-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Southampton: 4th August, 16th August, 18th August, 30th August 

Day 1: Departure from Southampton, England  Day 2: At Sea  Day 3: Return to Southampton, England 

3-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Southampton: 6th August, 13th August, 20th August, 27th August 

Day 1: Departure from Southampton, England  Day 2: At Sea  Day 3: At Sea  Day 4: Return to Southampton, England 

4-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Southampton: 9th August, 23rd August 

Day 1: Departure from Southampton, England  Day 2: At Sea  Day 3: At Sea  Day 4: At Sea  Day 5: Return to Southampton, England

2-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Newcastle: 6th September, 11th September 

Day 1: Departure from Newcastle, England  Day 2: At Sea  Day 3: Return to Newcastle, England 

3-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from Newcastle: 3rd September, 8th September 

Day 1: Departure from Newcastle, England  Day 2: At Sea  Day 3: At Sea  Day 4: Return to Newcastle, England

London Tilbury, England

2-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from London Tilbury: 20th September, 22nd September, 27th September, 29th September 

Day 1: Departure from Tilbury (London), England  Day 2: At Sea  Day 3: Return to Tilbury (London), England 

3-Night Disney Magic at Sea UK Staycation Sailing from London Tilbury: 14th September, 17th September, 24th September, 1st October 

Day 1: Departure from Tilbury (London), England  Day 2: At Sea  Day 3: At Sea  Day 4: Return to Tilbury (London), England

Terms & Conditions

Available to UK residents Only. Upon reopening, certain onboard venues may be limited in capacity and subject to restricted availability, advance reservations or even closure, based on guidance from UK government, health authorities and medical experts. Furthermore, certain experiences, services and amenities may be modified, have limited availability or remain closed. Subject to government approval.

COVID-19 Warning

We have taken enhanced health and safety measures—for you, our other Guests, Cast and Crew Members. You must follow all posted instructions while sailing with Disney Cruise Line.

An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to  Public Health England , older adults and Guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable.

By sailing with Disney Cruise Line you agree to follow all health and safety requirements implemented by Disney Cruise Line.

Help keep each other healthy.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Disney Parks UK (@disneyparksuk)

What do you think of the Disney Magic at Sea offerings? Which sailing do you want to book, or what will you book if you live in the UK?

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One Reply to “Disney Cruise Line Announces New Disney Magic at Sea Staycation Itineraries for Summer 2021”

planning to book the Newcastle sailing on 3rd September

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Travel | Cruise demand leaves pandemic in rearview with…

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Subscriber only, travel | cruise demand leaves pandemic in rearview with record passengers, more construction on tap.

MIAMI BEACH — The COVID pandemic drove the cruise industry to a standstill, but numbers released Tuesday signal the years of comeback are officially over with more expansion on tap.

More than 31.7 million passengers took cruises worldwide in 2023, said Kelly Craighead, Cruise Line International Association president and CEO, speaking at the annual Seatrade Cruise Global conference at Miami Beach Convention Center.

CLIA is the lobbying group for member cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Carnival, Norwegian, MSC and most other major brands.

The pandemic shut down sailing from March 2020 with only a small number of ships coming back online 18 months later in summer 2021. Cruise lines didn’t return to full strength until partially through 2022, so it wasn’t until a full year of sailing in 2023 that the industry could get a real handle on just what the demand had grown to as people returned to vacation travel.

“We are an industry that’s resilient and thriving all around the world, breaking records in ways we might never have imagined,” she said.

The 2023 total is 2 million more than the industry had in 2019. CLIA projects 34.1 million in 2024 growing to 34.6 million in 2025. It’s still a miniscule chunk of the overall travel pie of more than 1.3 billion, but cruise’s share is growing.

She noted that surveys of travelers who would consider a cruise for a vacation are at an all-time high, noting that 82% who had previously cruised said they would cruise again, but more importantly, among those who had never sailed, 71% would consider it.

The youngest generations — Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z — are the biggest drivers.

The fleet for the growing demand continues as well, including the introduction this year of the world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas.

She said CLIA member lines had more than 300 ships sailing globally for the first time in 2023, with 14 new ships that began sailing in 2023 and another eight expected before the end of the year. They have 88 new ships on order through 2028.

Already this year, both Royal Caribbean Group and Carnival Corp. announced major new ship construction deals, and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings added to that this week with its order of eight more vessels across its three brands.

The heads of those groups were on stage to discuss where the industry is headed and enjoy their recent success.

Carnival Corp.’s president and CEO Josh Weinstein put it in a way that gained plaudits from fellow panelists and others at the conference.

“The concept of pent-up demand for cruising is gone,” he said. “We have been cruising for three years, right? It’s over. This is natural demand because we all provide amazing experiences. We delivered happiness to literally 31 million guests last year. And people see it, they feel it.”

A big part of what cruising missed during the pandemic he said was that word-of-mouth promotion that is needed to convince people to try their product.

“We now have 31 million people getting off our ships and going home and telling their friends and family who have never cruised before, ‘You don’t know what you’re missing.’ ‘This is amazing.'”

All of the leaders echoed the industry line that they offer a much better value than land-based vacations, but that the experience gap between the two has now shifted in their favor coming out of the pandemic.

“The appreciation for building memories with your friends and family coming out of COVID is at extraordinarily high levels,” said Jason Liberty, president & CEO at Royal Caribbean Group. “Also wealth transfer, right? Grandparents wanting to see that wealth transfer live, watching their kids and their grandkids experience that is also at an all-time high. … We have the secular trends of people buying less stuff, they want experiences. We’re in the experience business.”

Another bright aspect to the industry has been the spillover effect of all of the new ships since the pandemic, said Harry Sommer, president & CEO at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

“Their new products are so extraordinary, and so much better than what was delivered back in ’15, ’16 and ’17, that it’s driving additional excitement for the entire industry,” Somer said. “When any new ship is delivered, no matter whether it’s part of our portfolio or the other portfolios, demand improves for all of us because it adds excitement to the industry.”

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Most Popular Disney World Rides, Ranked

D ivided into four parks — Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios — Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is one of the largest amusement park complexes in the world. People come from all over to experience the magic of the Disney universe. 

Of course, the parks and their rides are specially geared toward children. But that doesn't mean adults can't find exciting attractions that (sort of) justify the Disney adult phenomenon. 

These are some of the most popular rides at Disney World, which you have to ride at least once in your life.

Jungle Cruise

Park:  Magic Kingdom

Type of ride:  Water ride

Score:  13.2

If you watched the 2021 "Jungle Cruise" movie based on this ride, don't fret! We promise the ride that inspired the absolute wreck of a film is actually good. You'll board a creaky steamer and navigate through the Amazon (in South America), the Congo (in Africa) and the Mekong (in Asia) rivers. 

As you ride, you'll see animatronics of animals like gorillas and hippos. Expect some low drops and splashes in this attraction that's perfect for all ages.

Note: Rankings are based on a 2023  Magic Guides  study that analyzed the rides' search volume, number of Instagram hashtags and Tripadvisor reviews to give them a popularity score.

Star Tours - The Adventures Continue

Park:  Hollywood Studios

Type of ride:  3-D simulator

Any "Star Wars" fan  needs  to head to Hollywood Studios and experience this thrilling ride with C-3PO, R2D2 and other characters. You'll engage in a 3D flight simulator across the universe as you try to avoid Imperial forces. 

Even if you're not too into the saga, the ride is one of the most fun at Hollywood studios. Honestly, we're surprised it ranks in ninth place — we would have ranked it higher.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Type of ride:  Thrill ride

Score:  13.4

Magic Kingdom is mostly about spinning in tea cups and seeing characters. But if you want something that makes you feel like you're in an amusement park, head to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. 

Anyone over 40 inches tall can enjoy this ride, which goes through tunnels and canyons on a track that feels like it'll give way anytime. Hey, that's part of the fun!

Haunted Mansion

Type of ride:  Slow ride

Score:  13.7

Celebrate Halloween at any time of year with a ride into Magic Kingdom's Haunted Mansion. You'll go through a graveyard, an old home where ghouls lurk in corners and even a séance room.

Visiting with kids? No worries! The ghosts here are friendly, and the mansion is eery but never scary. Overall, this is perfectly on-brand with Disney. 

Expedition Everest - Legend of the Forbidden Mountain

Park:  Animal Kingdom

Type of ride:  Roller coaster

Though Animal Kingdom focuses mostly on real animals, you'll also have the chance to "meet" the abominable Yeti. Or rather, to escape from it as you go through the Himalaya on a fast moving train. 

This is one of the best rides for adults at Disney World, since it has fast turns and unexpected drops.

For more popular Disney World rides, check out Far & Wide.