disney cruise ships best to worst

What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

We compare and rank to find the best disney cruise ship.

When you combine  cruises  with  Disney , something magical happens! Below we compare the five Disney Cruise Line ships to help you decide which one is best for your next getaway. So, what is the best Disney Cruise ship? Without further ado, here is our list of the top 5!

Ships in the Disney Cruise Line Fleet

The latest industry numbers indicate that Disney Cruise Lines have a 2.3 percent share of the worldwide cruise ship market. With additional ships soon to be added to the roster, we should only expect Disney will increase its market share over the coming years.

Disney Cruise Line has 5 active ships, with three additional Disney cruise ships expected to be added by 2025.

Here is the current DCL fleet:

• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Wish

A sixth ship, Disney Treasure, is expected to join the fleet in 2024. Disney has also announced the purchase  of the partially-constructed  Global Dream  for conversion to a new Disney ship, the Disney Adventure (launching in 2025). Finally, another custom-built ship, the Disney Destiny, is expected to also launch sometime in 2025. Once all is said and done, there will be eight ships in the fleet.

Castaway Cay  is a tropical paradise located in the Bahamas and is an  exclusive port-of-call for Disney cruise guests. Disney owns the island, so you won’t compete with non-Disney guests for reservations. In addition,  Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is under construction on Eleuthera as another exclusive port-of-call.

There are lots of similarities between these Disney ships. Each one has its advantages and its magical experiences. That said, some of the entertainment, dining, amenities, activities, and destinations vary from ship to ship.

Want personalized advice on which ship is best for your vacation?

Best Disney Cruise Ships

Each of Disney’s cruise ships has its own unique history and defining characteristics. Here is our list of the best Disney cruise ships, ranked!

1. Disney Wish Cruise Ship

Disney Wish Overview

Disney Wish  is the newest Disney Cruise ship, launched in the summer of 2022. For its inaugural season, the ship focuses on 3- and 4-night Bahamian itineraries sailing from Port Canaveral (FL), with visits to Disney’s Castaway Cay and Nassau.

This ship has a length of 1,119 ft and a gross tonnage of about 144,000. The Disney Wish has 1,254 staterooms and boasts an onboard Guest capacity of 2,508 (at double occupancy) and 4,000 (max occupancy). In addition, 1,555 Crew Members keep the ship running. Disney Wish currently has no sister ships – it is the first in a series of three so-called “Triton Class” Disney ships (the two sister ships are expected to be introduced in 2024 and 2025).

While we admit that the newest isn’t always the best, that’s certainly  not  the case here. Instead, the Disney Wish has quite simply  changed the game  when it comes to cruising.

Disney Wish Dining

Disney Wish offers three rotational dining restaurants, two of which offer a sort of “dinner and a show” experience.

At  Arendelle – a Frozen Dining Adventure , you’re an honored guest of Queen Anna and Kristoff as they celebrate their engagement with Norwegian-inspired cuisine and live musical performances from Elsa and Olaf.

On another night, you’ll experience  Worlds of Marvel , which offers a worldly menu inspired by the Marvel Cinematic Universe, along with a little adventure in the form of Ant-Man and the Wasp demonstrating Super Hero technologies.

Finally,  1923  offers a dining experience steeped in the golden age of Hollywood. Named after the year the Disney brothers founded their first studio, you’ll enjoy the flavors of California while surrounded by relics of the early days of animation.

For those seeking an elegant (upcharged) experience, try  Palo Steakhouse  for dinner — or drop into  Hyperspace Lounge  for an intergalactic drink. And with casual dining options such as  Marceline Market  and even places to grab a Taco or some BBQ, you’ll never go hungry onboard the Disney Wish!

Disney Wish Entertainment

Disney Wish onboard activities include Disney’s first-ever “attraction at sea” called the “ AquaMouse ,” a sort of waterslide meets raft ride meets roller coaster. Live shows include Disney’s  The Little Mermaid  and  Disney’s Aladdin . And, of course, there’s a vast array of movie, nightclubs, pools, pubs, a Walt Disney theatre, and more!

Disney Wish Activities for Kids

Disney Wish offers plenty to keep the kids entertained. Train at  Marvel Super Hero Academy , visit  Star Wars Cargo Bay  or build your own coaster at the  Walt Disney Imagineering Lab .  Edge  and  Vibe  cater to tweens and teens, while  it’s a small world nursery!, Toy Story Splash Zone  and  Mickey & Minnie Captain’s Deck  is waiting for the tiniest travelers.

Set Sail on the Disney Wish with The Vacationeer !

2. Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship

Disney Fantasy Overview

Disney Fantasy  – the sister ship of Disney Dream – was launched in 2012 as Disney Cruise Line’s latest ship. Guests can choose between a seven-night Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise. This ship has a length of 1,114.8 ft and a gross tonnage is 129,750. Like Disney Dream, the Fantasy has an onboard guest capacity of 2.500 (double occupancy) and 4,000 (max occupancy) with a crew of over 1,400.

Routes:  Port Canaveral, Florida; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St Thomas; US Virgin Islands; Castaway Cay, Bahamas; Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica.

We love Disney Fantasy , and so do other Guests!

Disney Fantasy Dining

Disney Fantasy offers Rotational dining between the always entertaining dinner show named Animation Magic at its  Animator’s Palate  restaurant. The ship’s other  dining locations  include the magical Enchanted Garden and the fairytale dining room of  Royal Court . In contrast, the casual dining options include  Cabanas , Flo’s  Café , and snacks at  Eye Scream  and  Frozone Treats . The Northern Italian cuisine of  Palo  and French-inspired  Remy provide a few upscale and intimate options for adults.

Disney Fantasy Entertainment

Disney Fantasy onboard activities include a “water roller coaster” called the “AquaDuck,” the nightclub district called Europa, several pools, pubs, theatres, and more!

Disney Fantasy Activities for Kids

Like the other Disney cruise ships, Disney’s Fantasy has plenty of individual and instructor-led activities geared to kids of all ages.

3. The Disney Magic

Disney Magic Overview

Disney Magic was the first Disney cruise ship that had its maiden voyage on July 30, 1998, and has been in service ever since. It boasts a length of 984 ft, a gross tonnage of 83,338, and has 11 public decks, 875  staterooms , a crew of 945, and enough capacity for 2,700 guests.

The interior of Disney Magic is decorated in an Art Deco style, while the ship’s exterior color scheme is black, red, and white with 20 yellow lifeboats (matching the colors of Mickey Mouse). Disney Magic’s horn blasts a tune from Disney’s famous “When You Wish Upon a Star.” The ship’s Godmother is Patricia Disney, the wife of Roy E. Disney.

Routes : 4 Night Caribbean Cruises; 5, 6, 7, and 8 Night Western Caribbean Cruises; 2, 3, 4, and 8 Night Bahamian Cruises; 4, 5, 7, 9, and 12-night Mediterranean Cruises; and Special Cruises

Simply put, Disney Magic is… magical!

Disney Magic Dining

Disney Magic  offers two dining times – early and late. The Disney Cruise Line uses something they call “Rotational Dining” to ensure that guests have a chance to experience each of the ship’s themed restaurants. Regarding dining options, Disney Magic has several restaurants, and all three participate in the Rotational Dining schedule. Disney Magic’s dining locations include Lumiere’s (themed after Beauty and the Beast), Rapunzel’s Royal Table (inspired by Disney animated movie Tangled), and Animator’s Palate. In addition, Disney Magic’s  Palo restaurant  is located on the aft deck. It serves Northern Italian fare at dinnertime (18+, seats 130 guests).

Disney Magic Entertainment

The fun never stops on  Disney Magic .  There are live Broadway-style shows with your favorite Disney characters, fireworks, character meets, and movie theaters with first-run and Disney movies. The Walt Disney Theater and the Buena Vista Theater, karaoke, games, several pools, and a variety of Disney-themed deck parties, including Pirates Night and Sail-Away Celebration. The ship also boasts a massive LED screen called “Funnel Vision” and numerous lounges and bars (including  O’Gills Pub ). Keys piano bar, the Promenade Lounge, D-Lounge, and the adults-only Fathoms.

Disney Magic Activities for Kids

Disney Magic hosts a variety of  kids’ clubs  to keep the youngsters entertained, including:

-It’s a Small World Nursery is a play area for infants .

– Oceaneer Club  and the Oceaneer Lab are geared towards kids ages 3 to 12 years old. Activities include themed activities, computer games, experiments, costume dress, and more.

-The Edge is an interactive area where younger guests play (ages 11-14).

-The Vibe club is strictly for teens and offers video games, Internet, TV, music, Internet access, and social activities.

Need Help Deciding Which Ship to Pick?

4. Disney Dream Cruise Ship

Disney Dream Overview

Disney Dream  is the 3rd  Disney Cruise Line  ship operated by The Walt Disney Company and has been active since 2011. The ship currently sails three-day, four-day, and sometimes five-day cruises to the  Bahamas . It has a capacity of 2,500 (double occupancy) or 4,000 passengers maximum and has a crew of 1,458. Disney Dream is 1,114 ft in length and has a gross tonnage of 83,000.

Routes : With the arrival of the Disney Wish, the Disney Dream is no longer primarily based at  Port Canaveral, Florida.  It now offers 3, 4, and 5-night Bahamas cruises from Port Miami , along with multiple European itineraries of 4-11 nights departing from Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), Copenhagen, and Southampton.

Overall, the Disney Dream is fantastic. It’s not our absolute favorite, but there’s really not much to complain about.

Disney Dream Dining

Disney Dream has Rotational dining where you will get to experience 3 different restaurants each night of your cruise. The ship is home to a “state-of-the-art” dinner show at  Animator’s Palate , a classic Disney fairytale feast at  Royal Palace , and  Enchanted Garden  set in a serene conservatory setting. For a more casual dining experience, head to  Cabanas  for a casual breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Or check out the pizza, chicken, burgers, and salads at  Flo’s Café . For a delicious icy treat, head to  Frozone Treats , or  Eye Scream  (an ice cream shop). The Italian-inspired Palo and the French-inspired  Remy  are both high-end, adult-only dining options. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day.

Disney Dream Entertainment

Disney Dream onboard activities include digital sports simulators, a 9-hole mini-golf course, a full-sized basketball court, a volleyball court, a pitch, and a walking track.

Disney Wonder is also home to a “water roller coaster” called the AquaDuck, Mickey’s Slide, and has three pools, including the quiet cove pool. The ship also boasts two theaters: the Walt Disney Theater (live Broadway-style performances) and the Buena Vista Theater (first-run Disney movies).

Disney Dream Activities for Kids

Like the other Disney cruise ships, Disney’s It’s a Small World Nursery, Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Edge, Goofy’s Sports Deck, and Vibe are geared to kids of all ages.

5. Disney Wonder Cruise Ship

Disney Wonder Overview

Disney Wonder  is the second ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet and made its maiden voyage in August 1999. She is constructed in a nearly identical fashion to Disney Magic. However, the ship’s interior is decorated in the Art Nouveau style rather than Art Deco. Disney Wonder has 11 public decks, 875 staterooms, a crew of roughly 950, and can accommodate 2,400 passengers. This Disney cruise ship has a length of 974 ft and a gross tonnage of 83,000.

Routes : The routes include Alaska , Hawaii , Australia/New Zealand, and the USA’s West Coast

Still an excellent cruise ship (despite our ranking).

Disney Wonder Dining

Disney Cruise Line uses a dining rotation where guests rotate to a different restaurant each night. Guests are seated at the same table number – with the same table guests and wait staff – for every night they are on board. This creates less confusion and a friendly commodore among the guests.

Disney Wonder has three main restaurants:  Triton’s ,  Tiana’s Place,  and  Animator’s Palate .  Triton’s  features French cuisine in an Art Deco dining room,  Tiana’s Place  serves southern cooking with live jazz music, and  Animator’s Palate  is a dining show offering contemporary cuisine and Disney characters. The other main dining rooms and food options include  Cabanas , a buffet-style restaurant for breakfast and lunch and a casual eatery for dinner, a sandwich and salad shop called  Daisy’s de-Lites ,  Pinocchio’s Pizza , and the adult-oriented Palo, where Italian-inspired food and décor are complimented with live music.

Disney Wonder Entertainment

Some of the entertainment and lifestyle highlights of Disney Wonder include Crown & Fin Pub, an adults-only British-style pub, Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, and the relaxing and rejuvenating Senses Spa and Salon. Check  here  for a list of all onboard activities.

Disney Wonder Activities for Kids

Like Disney Magic, Disney Wonder offers the Oceaneers Club and the Oceaneers Lab for children ages 3-10. The Club provides several TVs, costumes to play dress-up, a slide, and some counselor-led activities. The Lab is geared towards the older age ranges and offers video games, TVs, computers, cooking classes, and more.

How to Book your Disney Cruise and Receive Onboard Credit

Ready to book your Disney Cruise? Do you have any questions?  The Vacationeer  can help!

The Vacationeer offers something called “onboard credit” as a free  bonus/incentive  for booking through their agency. Onboard credit is essentially  free money  – linked to your stateroom account – that can be used to pay for nearly anything on your Disney ship or in Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island. This includes drinks, meals, merchandise, activities, spa treatments, gratuity, and more.

Ask your travel agent about onboard credit  before booking a  Disney Cruise line vacation. If they don’t offer it, then hang up and find one that does! We can tell you that The Vacationeer offers the most competitive onboard credit in the business and doesn’t charge you a single penny to use their services!

See  the Vacationeer’s  Onboard Credit promotion  and our  Disney Cruise Onboard Credit  page, then  get a free quote  today!

The Vacationeer can also help you plan and book your Disney cruise on their newest Disney cruise ships – the  Disney Wish .

Best Disney Cruise Ship for Adults

While there are no Disney cruises exclusively for adults, there are plenty of dining options, bars, excursions, and perks geared towards adults on each cruise.

The Disney Dream is our pick for the  best Disney cruise ship for adults . It offers the cosmopolitan Skyline lounge, an upscale travel-themed lounge called The Meridian, the Italian restaurant Palo, the French fine-dining of Remy, a Quiet Cove for adults, the relaxation and rejuvenation of Senses Spa , and port excursions that cater specifically to adults.

Where is the Best Location on a Disney Cruise Ship?

The best location on a Disney cruise ship for the best views (widest vistas) is the very front or the very back of the ship.

The best location on a Disney cruise ship if you are prone to getting seasick is the center part of the ship because you’ll feel the least movement there. Specifically, try to reserve Deck 6 Midship on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, Deck 6 or 7 Midship on the Disney Wish, and Decks 7 and 8 Midship on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

What is the Best Deck on a Disney Cruise Ship?

The higher decks and cabins at the front (forward) or back (aft) have better views, but the ship will sway the most the higher you go. So it’s really just personal preference.

What is the Best Side of a Disney Cruise Ship?

If you sail out of Port Canaveral and stop at Castaway Cay, the  starboard side is the best side of a Disney cruise ship  because it faces the beach of Port Canaveral, where you can wave to everyone on the beach as the ship sets sail. The starboard side is also  usually  the side that faces  Castaway Cay  when the ship is docked there (though this will always depend on conditions at the time of docking). The starboard side is the right-hand side of the vessel, while the port side is on the left.

Enjoy your Disney Cruise!

We hope our Best Disney Cruise Ships RANKED article gives you some suggestions.

For more Disney information, please see our  How Much Do Disney Cruises Cost ,  Last-Minute Disney Cruise ,  What’s Included and What Isn’t , Best Cruise Lines for Kids ,   Disney Cruise Customer Service ,   Why Use a Disney Travel Agent ,  Disney Payment Plans ,  Disney Transportation Map ,  and  Disney World Tips   articles.

Thank you for reading our page, and we hope you have a fantastic vacation out at sea!

Get Free Help Planning Your Cruise

If you need help planning and booking your magical Disney Cruise Line vacation, contact our friends at   The Vacationeer .

Their services are always helpful and totally  free of charge !

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Ranking Disney Cruise Ships: Best To Worst

When it comes to planning a family vacation, a Disney cruise is often at the top of the list for many parents. And who can blame them? From character meet and greets to Broadway-style shows, there’s something for everyone on a Disney cruise.

But with so many ships in the fleet, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose. That’s where this article comes in – I’ve ranked all of the Disney cruise ships from best to worst based on public opinion, so you can make an informed decision on which ship will provide the best experience for your family.

Let’s face it – choosing the right ship for your family can make or break your vacation. For example, my friend chose the Disney Dream for her family’s first cruise, but they found that the ship was too large and overwhelming for their tastes. On the other hand, another friend sailed on the Disney Magic and loved the cozy, intimate atmosphere.

That’s why it’s important to know the features and highlights of each ship before making a decision. So without further ado, let’s dive into the rankings and see which Disney cruise ship comes out on top.

• Disney Cruise Line has multiple ships in its fleet, with the oldest being the Disney Magic and the newest being the Disney Wish.
• The best Disney cruise ship according to customer reviews is the Disney Dream, closely followed by Disney Fantasy, and the ship that came last still has a respectable score of 3.8 out of 5.
• Each Disney ship has its own unique features and itineraries, so choosing the best ship will depend on individual preferences and needs.
• Disney private islands, Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point, are included in some itineraries and add to the overall Disney experience.

Ship Fleet Overview

As I scan through my research, I’m transported to the magical world of Disney Cruise Line’s fleet. The fleet ranges from the largest and newest ship, the Disney Wish, to the smallest and oldest ship, the Disney Magic. Each ship has its unique features and charms.

It’s fascinating to learn that the Disney Wish has a passenger capacity of 5,000 and a gross tonnage of 144,000, making it the largest ship in the fleet. On the other hand, the Disney Magic is the smallest ship in the fleet, with a gross tonnage of 83,969.

Apart from the ships, Disney Cruise Line also owns private islands, including Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point. These islands provide an exclusive experience for Disney Cruise Line passengers, with plenty of water activities and excursions.

It’s exciting to know that each ship has its own itinerary and features, making it essential to choose the right ship that suits specific preferences and needs.

Disney Dream vs Disney Fantasy

In my opinion, both the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are fantastic options for anyone looking to go on a Disney cruise.

If you’re looking for a shorter trip, the Dream is the way to go. It offers 3-night and 4-night sailings, making it ideal for those who want a quick getaway.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a longer cruise, the Fantasy is your best bet. It’s perfect for those who want to take a 7-night cruise and explore more of what the ship has to offer.

When it comes to differences between the two, the Dream is the ship that hosts the Marvel at Sea experience, where guests can meet up to 30 Marvel characters during their cruise.

On the other hand, the Fantasy offers the Star Wars Day at Sea experience, which is a must-do for any Star Wars fan.

Both ships offer a range of entertainment and activities, but it’s important to choose the ship that best suits your needs.

Overall, whether you choose the Dream or the Fantasy, you’re guaranteed to have a magical experience on a Disney cruise.

Disney Wonder and Disney Magic

Funny enough, the two smaller Disney ships, the Wonder and the Magic, have their own unique features that make them just as enjoyable as their larger counterparts.

The Disney Wonder, launched in 1999, is currently offering cruises to Alaska, which is a fantastic opportunity for families to experience the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness while enjoying the Disney magic. The ship has been well-maintained, and its public spaces are spacious and elegant. Passengers rave about the adult-only restaurant, Palo, which offers exquisite cuisine and impeccable service. The kids’ clubs are also highly rated, and families enjoy the character meet and greets and the Broadway-style shows. Overall, the Disney Wonder offers a fantastic family vacation experience, especially for those who want to explore Alaska.

The Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the fleet, but it has been refurbished several times, and it remains a favorite among many Disney cruise fans. The ship has a classic feel, with elegant decor and a cozy atmosphere.

One of the unique features of the Disney Magic is the AquaDunk water slide, which provides a thrilling ride for both kids and adults. The ship also offers a variety of dining options, including Animator’s Palate, which transforms into a colorful, interactive experience during dinner. Families love the daytime entertainment, such as the quizzes and games, and the character meet and greets are always a hit.

Despite being smaller than the other ships in the fleet, the Disney Magic still offers a fantastic vacation experience, especially for those who appreciate classic elegance and a cozy atmosphere.

Disney Wish Overview

I was excited to learn about the newest addition to the Disney cruise fleet, the Disney Wish, and the unique features it has to offer.

With a passenger capacity of 5,000 and a gross tonnage of 144,000, the Disney Wish is the largest ship in the fleet.

It has the first full Disney attraction at sea, the AquaMouse, a water coaster that takes guests on a ride through 760 feet of winding tubes.

There is also a Toy Story-themed district where kids can play in Andy’s room and ride the Slinky Dog Dash water slide.

Adults can enjoy the Quiet Cove pool area, which features a bar and a pool with a swim-up bar.

But the real stars of the show on the Disney Wish are the crew members, who get the most mentions in reviews.

Passengers love just how hard they’re working to offer that typical Disney experience.

Unfortunately, some reviewers have noted issues with bottlenecks and split restaurants that cause crowds and long delays.

However, overall, the Disney Wish seems to be a fantastic addition to the Disney cruise fleet, with plenty of onboard experiences for all ages to enjoy.

Crew and Service

Honestly, the crew members on the Disney Wish are the true highlight of the cruise experience, with their exceptional service and dedication to providing that special Disney magic.

From the moment we stepped on board, we were greeted with warm smiles and helpful hands. The staff seemed genuinely happy to be there, and their enthusiasm was infectious.

Throughout the trip, they went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed, whether it was bringing us extra towels or making sure we had a seat at the show. Their attention to detail was impressive, and it was clear that they had all received extensive customer service training.

It’s no surprise that staff satisfaction is high on the Disney Wish, as they’re treated well and valued for their hard work. This translates into exceptional service for guests, and it’s what sets Disney Cruise Line apart from other cruise lines.

The crew members on the Disney Wish truly care about making sure guests have the best possible experience, and they do everything in their power to make that happen. From the waitstaff in the restaurants to the housekeeping staff who kept our room spotless, everyone we encountered was friendly, helpful, and dedicated to providing top-notch service.

It’s clear that Disney invests a lot in its staff, and it pays off in the form of happy guests who become loyal customers.

Entertainment and Activities

Now that we’ve talked about the crew and service on Disney cruise ships, let’s move on to the next important aspect of any cruise experience: entertainment and activities. And when it comes to Disney, there’s no shortage of things to do for all ages.

One of the highlights of a Disney cruise is the live shows. From Broadway-style productions to character meet and greets, there’s something for everyone. The quality of the shows is consistently praised in reviews, and many guests say they’re better than what they’ve seen on land.

Additionally, the kids clubs on board are top-notch, with activities and experiences tailored to different age groups. Parents can feel comfortable leaving their children in the care of the trained staff while they enjoy some adult-only time.

Overall, if you’re looking for a cruise with plenty of entertainment options, you can’t go wrong with a Disney cruise.

Itineraries and Destinations

Navigating the vast sea of Disney itineraries and destinations is like charting a course through a magical treasure trove of adventure and excitement. Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of cruise length options, ranging from 3-night sailings to 14-night voyages, with itineraries that take you to popular ports of call such as the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and even transatlantic crossings. Depending on your preferences, you can choose to embark on a relaxing beach vacation, explore historical landmarks, or immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine.

Here is a table that summarizes the cruise length options and popular ports of call for each Disney ship:

No matter which ship and itinerary you choose, you can expect to experience the same level of Disney magic and customer service throughout your journey. Each destination is carefully selected to provide a unique and unforgettable experience for guests of all ages, and the activities and entertainment onboard are designed to complement and enhance your time on land. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned veteran, Disney Cruise Line has something for everyone.

Review Summary

After researching thousands of customer reviews and three big cruise ship review websites, I’ve found that each Disney ship offers a unique experience and has its own strengths and weaknesses.

Overall, the Disney Dream comes out on top as the best Disney cruise ship according to customer reviews. Passengers rave about the quality of the entertainment, the variety of things to do, and the amazing crew. The ship also hosts Marvel at Sea, an experience where guests can meet up to 30 Marvel characters on their cruise.

The Disney Fantasy follows closely behind, with many positive reviews about the ship’s luxurious amenities and excellent service. However, some negative reviews criticize the ship for being too kid-focused, which may not be ideal for adult passengers.

The Disney Magic, despite being the oldest ship in the fleet, still receives positive feedback for its well-maintained facilities and fantastic family-friendly activities.

Ultimately, choosing the best Disney ship will depend on personal preferences and features, but these review trends and customer feedback analysis can help guide you in making the right decision.

What are the differences in dining options between the Disney cruise ships?

Main dining vs. rotational dining is offered on all Disney ships. Specialty dining options vary by ship and include adult-only options. Families can enjoy character dining experiences while adults can opt for fine dining. Each ship offers unique dining experiences.

Are there any adult-only areas on the Disney cruise ships?

Yes, all Disney cruise ships have adult-only areas for entertainment and nightlife. These areas include nightclubs, lounges, and bars. They offer a more relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere away from the family-friendly areas.

What type of staterooms are available on the Disney cruise ships?

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of stateroom features and cabin categories, including inside, oceanview, balcony, and suite options. Some suites even come with a personal concierge and access to exclusive areas like the Concierge Lounge.

Do the Disney cruise ships have any eco-friendly initiatives?

Disney Cruise Line has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives and sustainability efforts on their ships. These include reducing waste, conserving water and energy, and using environmentally friendly products. They also support ocean conservation and have partnerships with organizations like the Nature Conservancy.

Are there any special events or activities offered exclusively on certain Disney cruise ships?

Disney Cruise Line offers unique character experiences and onboard entertainment on each ship. The Disney Dream hosts Marvel Day at Sea, while the Disney Fantasy offers Star Wars Day at Sea. The Disney Magic has the AquaDunk water slide and the Disney Wish has the first full Disney attraction at sea, the AquaMouse.

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Disney Cruise Ships: Ranking Best to Worst

Any Disney Cruise ship is a great one. But, that doesn’t mean we don’t have our favorites. Because, of course we do. Since we’ve sailed on all five current Disney ships , we thought it would be fun to rank from them our least favorite to our most favorite. Read on for our ranking of Disney Cruise Line ships from worst to best!

Ranking Disney Cruise Line Ships

Let’s start by saying, this was no easy task. And, it’s something that can really change with our moods. All of the Disney Ships are great, we just feel like some are a little better than others. This is totally a matter of preference, of course. But here’s how Disney Cruise Line’s ship ranked in our ship showdown. 

#5 Worst: Disney Wish

That’s right. Disney’s newest cruise ship, the Disney Wish is our least favorite of the current fleet. Don’t get us wrong, it’s a beautiful ship. And the addition of Festival of Foods is something we would love to see come to the other ships at some point. And though we loved the new restaurant 1923 onboard the Disney Wish , Worlds of Marvel felt weird and lackluster to us in terms of Disney’s other themed dining experiences. Arendelle, the Disney Wish’s other themed dining experience was a lot of fun for us. But we’ve also found this one to be all over the place in terms of other guest reviews.

But with no real “theme” (sorry guys, Enchantment is not a real theme) and driving art style, it feels like its beauty is something that could age very quickly. We love the timeless feel of the other four ships, and the Wish just doesn’t have it. Along with that, the layout is just not good. We talk about this in full in our Disney Wish Cruise Review ,  and have found that most die-hard Disney Cruise fans who have been sailing for years agree. 

The layout is confusing. The dismantling of deck 4 was completely unnecessary and some of the placement of Disney IP just feels generic. And hey, it was designed by someone who happily claims she never had cruised before designing this ship. So while it does make it more understandable that some of the decisions were made, it doesn’t make them any less unforgivable. Sorry Wish fans. This one is just not our favorite. 

That being said, many people love the Disney Wish. We just aren’t those people.

#4: Disney Dream

The Disney Dream is a gorgeous ship. The design is beautiful. We love the layout and walking into the atrium underneath the beautiful chandelier feels like a dream come true.. But there is something about the Disney Dream that always makes it feel crowded. It’s a strange thing actually because the Disney Dream’s sister ship, the Disney Fantasy, rarely feels crowded in comparison. 

In addition to the weird, crowded situation on the Disney Dream, the main dining room restaurants are also some of the least exciting. And oddly, the food always seems to lack a bit in quality comparatively. Now, you could say that it’s a one off phenomenon, however we’ve sailed the Disney Dream a few times, in different parts of the world even, and we always notice this trend. And even when talking to friends who have sailed the Disney Dream multiple times, they say the same thing. Now to be clear, the food isn’t bad. It’s just not as good as the other ships from what we and other passengers have experienced in the last few years. 

The Disney Dream is home to Marvel at Sea, which is a fun themed cruise perfect for any Marvel fan. 

#3: Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder generally sails the Pacific Coast and Alaska. And now for 2023, has headed to Australia and New Zealand for the first time ever. So guests who tend to sail solely the Caribbean or on the East Coast generally don’t have a chance to experience this lovely ship. One of the two smaller ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, the Disney Wonder is big enough to feel spread out, while feeling small enough that it feels warm and inviting. 

The theming on this ship is fantastic as well. The design feels classic and timeless. Sure, it doesn’t have the most grand atrium. But the storytelling that this ship offers is a perfect example of what Disney Imagineers excel at: storytelling.  From the carpet and chandelier representing Ariel’s tail and flower in her hair, to the French Quarter lounge leading you into Tiana’s Place , the elements of storytelling here are fantastic.

And speaking of Tiana’s Place , fans of Princess and The Frog are sure to love this themed restaurant for dinner. The Disney Wonder is also home to the Triton’s and a fun black and white version of Animator’s Palate, which hosts the fun Animation Magic Show and a visit from Sorcerer Mickey. 

#2: Disney Magic 

Another smaller ship, the Disney Magic takes our number 2 spot. Sister ship to the Disney Wonder, the Disney Magic is the art deco version in this ship class.  This ship is even less grand than the Disney Wonder and many people are often surprised to find it is at the top of my Disney Cruise ranking list.  But because it’s so unassuming, it just feels cozy. And if you’re a Tangled fan, then this ship should not be missed.

One of the reasons it lands the #2 spot for me is because of the Tangled restaurant, Rapunzel’s Royal Table . Not only is the food here creative and delicious, but the entertainment is amazing as well.  It could be said that it’s just a matter of preference especially when compared to Tiana’s Place, and that’s true. However, Tiana’s Place also has some weird acoustics in the restaurant that can make that party feel a little too loud for dinner. It’s something that’s often brought up by guests and though we love the show at Tiana’s, the vibe (and acoustics) in Rapunzel’s is a little more chill and relaxing.  Add in the fact that the Disney Magic is also home to the Tangled Broadway show, and this ship is pure gold for Tangled fans. 

Now if you’re not as much of a Tangled fan as I am, this ship still has plenty to offer. Lumiere’s here is stunning for Beauty and the Beast fans. And Animator’s Palate here also hosts the Animation Magic show as well, which is always a treat. And again, an appearance from Sorcerer Mickey!

This ship also feels smoother on the seas than the Disney Wonder does. We originally sailed the Disney Wonder many years ago in the Caribbean and again on a Disney cruise to Alaska. So we have some decent experiences to compare.  And even though the Disney Magic is the oldest ship in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet, it’s been really well maintained over the years. 

#1 Best: Disney Fantasy

Ahh the Disney Fantasy. What can we say, we just love this ship. Though its sister ship the Disney Dream ranked at #4 for us, the Disney Fantasy just feels more elevated and luxurious. The attention to detail is fantastic. The colors are stunning and you really feel like you’re about to set off on a grand voyage. 

The Europa section of the Disney Fantasy that features bars and lounges, is such a unique theme and is so well done. Though the entire ship can’t be applauded for one section of the ship, this area really showcases the immersive storytelling that Disney does so well. With lounges themed to different countries in Europe, Europa is located on Deck 4.  The Disney Fantasy also houses Meridian, which in our opinion, is the best lounge on any Disney Cruise ship. You can also find this lounge on the Disney Dream as well. Guests can enjoy both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages inspired by different parts of the world. And the outside area has some of the best views on the ship. 

In addition to that, the Disney Fantasy also has mini golf on Deck 13 and the Midship Detective Agency , which adds a bit of free fun to your Sea Days. 

Have you sailed all 5 of the Disney Cruise ships? How would you rank them? We’d love to know where each of the Disney Cruise ships ranks for you!

Melanie Renee

Melanie Renee is a photographer, writer, designer and mom. Visiting Disney destinations since 2010, she is also an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. When she's not creating her next coffee recipe, or designing apparel at Polka Dot Pixie Shop, she's seeking beautiful sunsets and planning her next trip .

• Melanie Renee https://www.polkadotsandpixiedust.com/author/melanniee/ How a Disney Cruise to Europe is different
• Melanie Renee https://www.polkadotsandpixiedust.com/author/melanniee/ 11-night Disney Cruise to Northern Europe on the Disney Dream
• Melanie Renee https://www.polkadotsandpixiedust.com/author/melanniee/ Meridian Lounge on Disney Cruise Line
• Melanie Renee https://www.polkadotsandpixiedust.com/author/melanniee/ Disney Yacht Club vs Beach Club - what's the difference?

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Disney Magic

The 2,713-passenger Disney Magic is the oldest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet (it first launched in 1998). It was last refurbished in May 2023, when it received updates like a "Soul"-themed lounge, concierge-level upgrades and a new "Encanto" live show. The ship also features family favorites such as the AquaDuck waterslide, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique dress-up shop and Edge, an interactive game center for tweens.

Disney Magic features diverse entertainment, including live shows, an open-air Wide World of Sports deck, three pools and a splash area for children younger than 3. Unique to the Magic is the teens-only Chill Spa. When it comes to dining, the ship offers eight eateries, including an adults-only specialty restaurant and buffet options. Recent cruisers gave the food quality mixed reviews.

In terms of lodging, 70% of cabins offer ocean views or verandas. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, sitting areas and bathrooms with separate showers and tubs. Suites include extra perks such as concierge service and media libraries. Past cruisers noted that the service on this ship is up to Disney's standards, but so is the price tag.

Disney Magic sails from Galveston, Texas ;  San Diego ;  Miami ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida ;  New Orleans ; and  San Juan, Puerto Rico . It visits destinations across the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Once per sailing, guests are invited to watch Tangled: The Musical in the Walt Disney Theater. This Broadway-style show retells the story of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider with three new original songs, puppets, and beautiful costumes. This show is very popular, so it's best to get to the theater about an hour before the show starts to get a good seat. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Wish

The fifth Disney Cruise Line ship, Disney Wish made its maiden voyage in July 2022. The 4,000-passenger and 1,555-crew-member ship features the first Disney attraction at sea – AquaMouse – which takes thrill-seekers through 760 feet of water tubes high above the cruise deck.

Family-friendly cabin options include Concierge, Verandah, Oceanview and Inside staterooms. Rooms feature a 43-inch flat-screen TV, ample closet space and individual climate control. For fun, kids can head to Hero Zone recreation space (inspired by the movie "The Incredibles"), Vibe (an exclusive teen space) or the onboard nursery. Guests loved the variety of kid-friendly activities.  

For adults, there are retail shops, spas, bars, live entertainment and 10 pools and water play areas – including the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool. A welcome escape among older cruisers, some passengers wished the adults-only spaces were bigger.

When it comes to food, travelers can enjoy California cuisine at 1923, French cuisine at the adults-only Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement or steak at the adults-only Palo Steakhouse. The ship also has interactive dining experiences based on several Disney films. Feast at the first Frozen-themed theatrical dining – Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure and enjoy Norwegian-inspired cuisine. Or, explore the Worlds of Marvel with the Avengers: Quantum Encounter, featuring international dishes alongside superheroes like Ant-Man, Captain America and more.

Disney Wish sails to the Bahamas  from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida. 

U.S. News Insider Tip : The Disney Wish features Disney's first infinity pool in the Quiet Cove. Unlike Disney's other ships, the Quiet Cove is located on Deck 13 all the way in the back of the ship, so it feels more intimate and doesn't see kids walking through the space throughout the day. – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Dream

Last renovated in 2015 (after being introduced in 2011), the 4,000-passenger Disney Dream is one of Disney's largest ships. Highlights include the 765-foot AquaDuck water coaster, a virtual sports simulator (for an extra fee) and theatrical performances that bring Disney animated favorites – like "Beauty and the Beast" – to life.

While the ship emphasizes family-focused entertainment with five specialized kids clubs, parents can enjoy the adults-only Quiet Cove pool and the Senses Spa & Salon. At night, a section of the ship called The District transforms into an adult oasis with host of bars and lounges. In terms of dining, the ship offers nine themed venues including two specialty adults-only restaurants.

Staterooms also cater to cruising clans, offering perks like sofa beds. Over 85 percent of cabins have ocean views or verandas. Those looking for extra space can opt for Concierge Suites, which range from 622 to 1,781 square feet.

While some recent cruisers commented that the ship is more expensive than other mainstream competitors, most said it was well worth the price due to the personalized attention they received from the staff.

Disney Dream departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida ;  New York ; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Southampton, England; and more for sailings in the Bahamas , Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Europe. The cruise line also offers some transatlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Don't skip dinner at Animator's Palate and its Undersea Magic dinner show. During the meal, you'll be immersed in the world of Finding Nemo, as Crush the turtle from the movie swims by virtually to chat with families between courses. (This dinner show is also available on the Disney Fantasy ). – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Fantasy

Disney Fantasy launched in 2012 and underwent a dry dock in 2017. The ship features activities such as Pixar Day at Sea, Disney's Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular and the 765-foot AquaDuck water ride.

Staterooms are designed with families in mind. Inside cabins can accommodate up to four guests, and over 85% of the ship's cabins have an ocean view or a veranda. All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, minifridges and iPod docking stations.

Onboard entertainment is just as family-oriented, with Goofy’s Sports Deck activity center, a virtual sports simulator (for an extra fee), nightly live performances and 3D movies. While younger guests play in age-appropriate youth clubs, adults can relax at the Quiet Cove Pool or enjoy an evening at an adults-only bar or lounge.

When it comes to dining, the ship offers 10 themed dining venues, including two adults-only specialty venues, three main dining rooms and an ice cream shop: Sweet on You.

Fantasy sails from  Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida , to the Bahamas , Bermuda and a variety of ports in the Caribbean.

U.S. News Insider Tip : Between Palo and Remy is a secluded adults-only bar called Meridian. The bar is known for its martini program, where the bartenders will ask you a few questions and then whip up something off-menu for you to enjoy inside or outside on the exclusive patio. (Meridian can also be found on the Disney Dream ). – Megan duBois, Contributor

Disney Wonder

The 2,713-passenger Disney Wonder debuted in 1999. It was most recently updated in 2019; the refurbishment rolled out new family-oriented amenities and entertainment offerings, like Tiana's Place with live music and southern cuisine inspired by the Disney movie, "The Princess and the Frog." 

The ship offers plenty of onboard activities, with 10 designated family areas, five youth clubs and seven adults-only spaces. While younger passengers play at age-appropriate clubs, grown-ups can relax at the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool. When hunger strikes, Wonder offers six dining options, including one adults-only specialty restaurant.

Like the majority of the ship, staterooms are designed with families in mind. Interior cabins can accommodate up to four passengers, while larger suites can sleep up to seven. All cabins come equipped with flat-screen TVs, seating areas and classic Disney designs. Recent cruisers noted the expensive cost of a trip on the Disney Wonder, but most felt the quality of service was top-notch. 

Disney Wonder departs from a range of ports throughout Australia and New Zealand, as well as  Vancouver , for sailings around the South Pacific, Mexico and Alaska. 

U.S. News Insider Tip : The Disney Wonder features Disney Cruise Line's only Princess and the Frog-inspired rotational dining room. Tiana's Place is themed after a jazz supper club, with a live band, Creole dishes and dancing. – Megan duBois, Contributor

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Jones Family Travels

Best Disney Cruise Ships

By Tim Jones 2 Comments

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Our family loves to cruise! One of our favorite cruise lines is Disney Cruise Line. We have been on over 30+ Disney Cruises, so we do cruise on Disney a lot. 

We are always asked, “what are the best Disney Cruise ships?” 

Ranking the Best Disney Cruise Ships

We are going to rank the Disney Cruise ships from the worst to the best.

We only focus our ranking on the ship amenities and which Disney Cruise ship is the best. We are not focusing on cruise itineraries.

The Disney Cruise Ships do sail around the world, leaving ports of call including New York City, Port Canaveral, San Juan, San Diego, Galveston, Barcelona, and more. Not all cruise ships sail to all destinations. This is something to keep in mind when picking the best Disney Cruise ship for your family vacation. 

If you are traveling to the Bahamas, you may have the option of cruising on the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, or the Disney Magic. However, if you are cruising to Alaska, you will only have the option of the Disney Wonder. 

This is something to keep in mind when planning your Disney Cruise vacation. For now, let’s dive into our list of the best Disney Cruise ships.

#4 Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is one of the newest Disney Cruise ships. It is huge with over 4,000 guests! It is an amazing ship, but can often feel a little too big. However, there is a lot to love about the Disney Fantasy. Here are some of our favorites on board the Disney Fantasy.

The Aqua Duck water coaster is amazing! The entire family just loves this water roller coaster. The whole tube slide is clear, so you can look down at the pool or ship. If you are in a port of call, you can get an amazing view of the city or island.

This water slide is even more fun during the Pirate Night festivities. You can look down below at all of the Pirate Night activities on the pool deck.

The Aqua Duck is on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream ships.

Larger Atrium

The are a lot of characters and shows in the atrium area. We love the atrium on the Disney Fantasy. You have a lot of space in the atrium and you have an incredible view on higher decks. Having a spacious atrium makes the character meet and greets more enjoyable. You do not feel as crowded on the Disney Fantasy.

Midship Detective Agency

The kids love the Midship Detective Agency. This game takes you throughout the Disney Fantasy. This mystery takes you to art pieces throughout the ship. Some of the art pieces will come to life. You will use these art pieces to solve crimes. There are two different games, including Muppets and 101 Dalmatians.

This “who did it” mystery will take you across the ship and on different decks. The art comes to life, as you try to solve the mystery.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique/Pirate League

All of the Disney Cruise Ships have the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. During an experience at Bibbibi Bobbidi Boutique, you can transform into a princess or prince. On Pirate Night, you can turn into a Pirate or even a mermaid.

Edge and Vibe

We love the Children Programming on the Dinsey Cruise Ships. The kids love Edge (for tweens) and Vibe (for teens.) On the Disney Fantasy, these teen areas are amazing!

Vibe has their own sundeck and pool. This is the ultimate areas for tweens and teens. There is even special Open House experiences, so the whole family can check out these fun areas.

The Disney Fantasy does have a lot of amazing amenities. All of the other Disney Cruise ships have been through magical enhancements (ship updates). With these in mind, we think the other Disney Cruise ships are better than the Disney Fantasy. This is why the Disney Fantasy got the #4 spot of the best Disney Cruise ships.

#3 Disney Magic

Number three on our list of best Disney Cruise Ships is the Disney Magic. This older cruise ship accommodates around 2,400 guests. Tim and I love that it is a smaller ships. It makes it easier to get around and not as crowded. Here are some other reasons why we love the Disney Magic.

Tangled the Musical & Snuggly Duckling

The Disney Magic has a newer Broadway style show called Tangled the Musical. This show is incredible for Tangled Fans, young and old. After the show, the Tangled fun continues with the Snuggly Duckling bar with games, music, food, and fun from some funny characters. Then it continues with a special themed dinner. It is a lot of fun!

The Disney Magic is the only Disney Cruise ship with the Aqua Dunk. Get ready for a big thrill! You stand with your arms and legs crossed. You then wait for the floor to open up underneath you.

You are whisked away in a clear waterslide zooming around the ship. This is one of Tim’s favorite rides on the Disney Cruise ships.

The Aqua Dunk gets popular, so we recommend hitting this waterslide when you are in ports of call like Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island) or Nassau in the Bahamas.

#2 Disney Wonder

Our 2nd favorite Disney Cruise ship is the Disney Wonder. The Disney Wonder recently went through a magical enhancement and is amazing.

We love the updates to the Disney Wonder. Our favorite restaurant on board any Disney Cruise ship is on board the Disney Wonder . . .

Tiana’s Place

Frozen Adventures in the Children Programming

During the dry dock, the Disney Wonder got a new addition in the Oceaneer Club (kids club). They now have a section called Frozen Adventures. This fun area is themed after Frozen and even includes a few friends.

Frozen, A Musical Spectacular 

To continue the Frozen theming, the Disney Wonder has a new show called Frozen, A Musical Spectacular. This show truly is spectacular.

One of our favorite parts of the show is when it snows in the theater . . . yes, actual show in the islands!

With these newer additions and the smaller size of the Disney Wonder, we rank this ship as our 2nd favorite among the Disney Cruise fleet.

#1 Disney Dream

The best Disney Cruise Ship is the Disney Dream. This cruise ship is a sister ship to Disney Fantasy.

It may be the same size as the Disney Fantasy, but this ship has even better amenities. It has had a few more magical enhancements to make it even more amazing!

Vanellope’s Sweets & Treats

Do you like Wreck it Ralph? You will love this sweet shop. You can enjoy sweet treats, candy, ice cream, and gelato. This is such a fun addition to the Disney Dream.

There is a small fee for these items, so keep that in mind during your cruise.

Oceaneer’s Club & Lab with Star Wars Millennium Falcon

The kids love the Millennium Falcon in the Oceaneer’s Club, but Tim and I do, too. Throughout the Disney Cruise vacation, they offer Open Houses. This is the opportunity for the whole family to explore the Oceaneer Lab and Club. We all love sitting in Han Solo’s seat and driving the Millennium Falcon!

Beauty and the Beast Show

Disney recently hosted the opening of the Beauty and the Beast Show. This show is simply amazing! The technology and set design alone is just spectacular. You will love all of the Disney characters in this show, too. I am a huge fan of the original Beauty and the Beast movie. I am glad this new show is just as amazing!

Our entire family agrees that the Disney Dream is the #1 ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. 

New Disney Wish

We have some exciting news to come for Disney Cruise Line. In July 2022, the Disney Wish sets sail from Port Canaveral (near Disney World). This new ship looks amazing! We share the top 9 things we love about the Disney Wish.

We hope this helps you pick the best Disney Ships for your family cruise. Be sure you check out these 105 Disney Cruise tips with tons of insider tips and hacks before you set sail on your next cruise.

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Disney Cruise Ships Ranked, According to DCL Experts

If you are interested in Disney Cruise Line, you have likely wondered: how are Disney cruise ships ranked by experts? What Disney cruise ship is the best? When you are interested in going on a Disney Cruise Line (DCL) trip, you want to book the best ship for your vacation, after all.

We spoke to six Disney Cruise Line experts to find out the answers. Our experts are all Platinum Castaway Club members who have been on 10+ Disney Cruises. (That is a lot!) They're also all in the DCL arena as either podcasters, bloggers, travel agents specializing in DCL, or a combination of those jobs.

Be sure to read to the end because we link to some fun Disney Cruise Line merchandise to gear up and get excited for your cruises!

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Best Disney Cruise Ships Ranked Overview

“Best” Disney cruise ship and Disney cruise ships ranked are subjective, of course. Answers vary according to what you're most interested in during your cruises. For instance, what's the best Disney cruise ship for entertainment venues? How are Disney cruise ships ranked if you're traveling with little kids versus teenagers?

Skip Ahead per category Disney cruise ships ranked Winners:

• Best Disney Cruise Ship, Overall
• Best Food on a Disney Cruise Ship
• Best Disney Cruise Ship for the Ages: Adults to Kids

Best of Disney cruise Line in additional Categories:

• Best DCL Onboard Entertainment: Spas, Shops, Clubs
• Best Disney Cruise Line Activities on Castaway Cay, Best Itineraries, and Best Excursions

Disney Cruise Line Experts weigh in on:

• Adventures by Disney River Cruises
• Fun DCL Questions for the Experts
• Who are the Experts? Meet them here!

⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Line Ship, Overall Winner ⭐️

The winner(s) may surprise you! We expected the clear winner to be Disney Wish, the fleet's newest, “shiniest” ship. However, it wasn't!

Disney Wish received 4 votes of 6, while Disney Magic and Fantasy received 1 vote each. Many of our DCL experts' selections for Best Disney Cruise Line Ship were tied to the onboard offerings and the itineraries.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, MAGIC, & FANTASY ✨

Onboard offerings (like venues and restaurants) rarely change unless the ship is dry-docked and undergo interior redesigns. The itineraries often (but not always) change yearly depending on where the ship is based.

Scott (from DCL Blog) has been on all of Disney's cruise ships multiple times (including Disney Wish), but Disney Magic remains his favorite. The size of the ship is a winner for him, along with the memories he and his family have made on 11 sailings on Magic, encompassing wonderful destinations.

Brian and Sam (from DCL Duo) like Wish best. While they admit the adult areas need some work and currently itineraries are limited, they like the number of new experiences onboard, high quality of cuisine offerings, and overall quality of the ship.

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders Blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) agree with this notion. They like Disney Wish because of its experiences that you won't find on other ships in the fleet.

Karen (My Path Unwinding Travel) enjoys Disney Fantasy's AquaDuck waterslide. She also likes the longer itineraries offered, preferring longer cruises over short ones. She loves the ability to stay at Walt Disney World before or after the cruise. The Fantasy adult dining and lounge areas take the cake for her!

Please read to the end of the post for further bio information on all of our DCL experts!

⭐️ Best Food on a Disney Cruise Line Ship ⭐️

The choice is unanimous: Disney Wish wins!

Our DCL experts agree on the winner. They have all sailed on Disney Wish, some numerous times. Not only does the Wish have the best dining venues — including Enchanté — but also the best quality of cuisine.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY WISH ✨

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) add, “The quick service options at Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods on the pool deck really sets the Disney Wish apart. There are so many options. We especially love the barbecue and cantina, both things you can't find on any of the other ships!”

💫 DCL Experts Best Disney Cruise Line Food Experience

We also asked our DCL experts to reminisce about their favorite Disney Cruise Line dining experience to date. Here's what they had to say:

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo):

Remy dinner on our very first Disney cruise aboard the Fantasy was our most memorable meal. We were traveling with two other couples and were able to eat dinner in the Remy wine room. The food was excellent, the wine was plentiful, and the evening was all the more magical because we shared it with friends.

Scott (Disney Cruise Line Blog):

It's impossible to single out one aspect that made dining at Remy (Dream/Fantasy) outstanding. From service to the dishes, each aspect of our numerous Remy dinner experiences has been excellent.

Karen (My Path Unwinding Travel):

Palo Steakhouse on the Disney Wish served course by course in our Wish Tower Suite!

Josh and Brittany (Fairytale Wonders blog and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel):

Arendelle on the Disney Wish became an immediate favorite for us! We were so impressed with the musical performances and the entertainment. The food was outstanding as well. This is a great meal the whole family will enjoy!

⬇︎ Download our Freebie: A PDF to Help You Decide What Ship is Best for Your Disney Cruise Vacation!

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⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Ship for the Ages: Adults to Kids ⭐️

Here are the blocks of ages for each category:

• Adults: 18+
• Teenagers: 14 to 17
• Tweens: 11 to 14
• Children: ages 3 to 12
• Infants and toddlers: 6 months to 3 years

💫 Best DCL Ship for Adults

We know firsthand that you don't have to have kids (or travel with them) to enjoy Disney Cruise Line. In fact, we share why Disney Cruise Line is great for adults traveling without kids . As such, we asked our DCL experts which Disney cruise ship is the best for adults.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY FANTASY ✨

Three of our four experts agree that Disney Fantasy is the clear winner, whether you're traveling as adults-only for a “regular” vacation or your honeymoon.

The adult spaces are superb. And to make things extra convenient, the adult dining restaurants and adult district are located in the same general area of the ship. This includes its clubs, lounges, and bars.

The upper deck's adults-only areas on Disney Fantasy also come out on top, with the Quiet Cove's hot tubs nearby and a swim-up bar in the pool. (What adult craving a drink doesn't love that convenience?)

The longer itineraries offered on Disney Fantasy make it ideal for adults looking for a longer getaway. It's hard for traveling parents to take their kids out of school for an extended period of time if it's not a holiday.

If you're looking for a great Rainforest Room to hang out at the spa for a few hours, the Fantasy has one a cut above the classic ships but not as good as the Wish.

If you are cruising with kids and want a happy medium, consider Disney Wish, which offers the best of both worlds: there's a lot to keep kids occupied and checked into childcare while adults break off to have some fun. However, keep in mind that the adult areas on Disney Wish are more spread out, and the pool is smaller and with only one hot tub.

That being said, the Wish also has a great concierge sundeck and lounge if you're interested in booking Concierge-level stateroom, and these perks are an important consideration for you.

💫 DCL Winner for Teenagers

Teenagers love to hang out in groups, make new friends while cruising, and find teenager-centric spots on Disney ships. There wasn't a clear winner here from our Disney Cruise Line experts; they appreciate what Disney Wish, Fantasy, and Dream have to offer this age group.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, FANTASY & DREAM ✨

Disney Wish's air-conditioned “Hero Zone” is great for its indoor games. This includes basketball, ping pong, air hockey, shuffleboard, and foosball. Families can use this area too, but it's especially great for teens. It's not an accident that the Hero Zone is near Vibe on Disney Wish.

Vibe, a teen-exclusive youth club for ages 14 to 17, is on every Disney ship though its design differs across the fleet.

The Wish exclusively has “The Hideaway” for teens and tweens. Yet the other ships – Disney Dream, Fantasy, and Magic – all have Chill, a teens-only spa for ages 13 to 17.

💫 Best DCL Ship for Children

If you're sailing with children ages 3 to 14, which is the best Disney ship? Two of our experts agree that Disney Wish is the winner, while two others agree that other ships have something to offer too.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH (BUT OTHER SHIPS HAVE GREAT PERKS) ✨

Scott (DCL Blog) shares that Disney's Oceaneer Club for ages 3 to 12 are similar across the fleet, though each ship has its own unique twist on a franchise theme: Princess/Fairytale, Marvel, and Star Wars. The Oceaneer Lab, for ages 3 to 12, is currently an option on every ship except Wish.

He shares that two ships have an added feature that's a bonus for children if you sail on Dream or Fantasy: Midship Detective Agency is a game that takes you around to various decks to solve mysteries.

The new Augmented Reality (AR) experience on Wish might change Scott's opinion once it is rolled out, but it's currently unavailable.

Josh and Brittany (Fairtyale Wonders and Wish Upon a Star With Us travel) take Scott's notion of The Oceaneer Club and raise it a level to Disney Wish's offering.

They share that the creators of Disney Wish took two decades of Disney Cruise Line experience and guest feedback to create the ultimate onboard Oceaneer Club on Deck 2. There's an entrance for kids to literally slide into the club from the Grand Hall. (So cool! Can adults use the slide too? The answer is yes !)

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo) confirm that they couldn't pry their son away from the new kids club on Disney Wish.

The Edge is available for kids aged 11 through 14. This tween-exclusive is available across the Disney fleet.

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Ship for Infants and Toddlers

The nice thing about little ones from ages 6 months to 3 years is they're not too hard to please. Understandably, parents are likely harder to satisfy! (Infants need to be at least one year old to be checked into “it's a small world” nursery! on Transatlantic, Hawaii, and Panama Canal itineraries.)

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, WONDER & MAGIC ✨

As our DCL experts point out, there's a bit of yin and yang here, with smaller and bigger ships having their own advantages.

That is to say that the smaller ships' sizes (Wonder and Magic) make sailing with little ones a bit more manageable. Getting to and from “it's a small world” nursery! (available on all ships) and the adults-only areas after you drop them off at daycare take less time.

Yet a big ship like Wish has a bigger nursery space (the cruise arguably will have more kids needing daycare on it too). Wish also has a Mickey and Minnie Captain's Deck play area for kids ages 3 to 6, with a Pixar-themed bathroom with smaller toilets and hand driers designed specifically for them.

⭐️ Best DCL Onboard Entertainment: Spas, Shops, Clubs ⭐️

💫 best disney cruise line ship entertainment venues.

We all know that Disney does entertainment best. But which DCL ships come out on top? According to our experts, Fantasy, Dream, and Wonder win.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY FANTASY, DREAM & WONDER ✨

Fantasy and Dream group all of the lounge venues in one area on Deck 4 Aft, which is adults-only come night time. There's a good variety of lounges to boot.

They also have the best entertainment venues, with a balcony inside the Walt Disney Theater, adding to its feeling of grandeur. “The Buena Vista Theater has a classic art deco style and feels big compared to the movie theaters on the other ships,” says Josh and Brittany.

Karen shares some of those sentiments, adding, “Europa or the District on the Fantasy or Dream are great adults-only areas in the evening. I love the atmosphere at Skyline. It feels like having a cocktail with my friends in my own living room.”

Brian and Sam are partial to the Azure lounge, unique to Disney Wonder. They enjoy its great views and atmosphere, which they like better than The Tube (Disney Fantasy) and Evolution (Disney Wonder) lounges on Dream-Class ships.

💫 Best Shows and Recurring Special Events on Disney Cruise Line

The results vary here! To us, this is great news because it means that the huge team of creatives that come together to produce a live stage show are appreciated across the board.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY WISH, MAGIC, DREAM & FANTASY ✨

Favorites shows from our DCL experts include:

• Seas the Adventure (musical on Disney Wish)
• Tangled: The Musical (Disney Magic)
• Beauty and the Beast (Disney Dream)
• Frozen (Disney Wonder and Fantasy)

Some of our experts also noted they particularly enjoy Marvel Day at Sea on Disney Magic and the Pirate Parlay Deck Party onboard Disney Wish.

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Ship for Shops and Senses Spa

Five of our six DCL experts agree that Disney Wish has the best spa. (Senses Spa is for guests 18 and older.) It's also the only ship with an outdoor area of the rainforest space, while the Rainforest Room on other ships is indoors only.

✨ WINNER: DISNEY WISH (SPA) ✨

Additionally, Disney Wish's spa features an ice lounge for some cold treatment therapy (which reminds us of the unique rooms Celebrity Cruises has in its spa on their Edge class ships, like a Crystallarium) and has treatment rooms replete with personal whirlpools.

You can also sign up for any number of treatments, from a fire and ice manicure to a bamboo massage. (We had a bamboo massage in the Princess Cruises Lotus Spa and had never heard of it before then – they're awesome if you like a lot of pressure on your muscles!)

Brian and Sam (DCL Duo) note that shopping is best on the Dream Class ships (Dream and Fantasy) but admit that Disney Wish has the most high-end retail.

✨ WINNERS: DISNEY DREAM & FANTASY (SHOPPING) ✨

⭐️ Best Disney Cruise Line Activities on Castaway Cay, Best Itineraries, and Best Excursions ⭐️

💫 best activities on castaway cay.

Thousands of people sail on Disney Cruise Line each year, excited to experience Disney Cruise Line's private island, Castaway Cay.

There is plenty to do there, including sailing, laying out on the beach, some shopping, and recreating at the Pelican Plunge water-playground area. What do our DCL experts enjoy most about this fabulous little island?

✨ WINNERS: BBQ at COOKIE'S, CABANA RELAXATION, & SNORKELING ✨

Brittany and Josh love to have BBQ at Cookie's! The barbecue lunch is always a highlight of their Castaway Cay day.

Karen looks forward to relaxing in a cabana. Otherwise, she enjoys indulging in a Konk Kooler on Serenity Bay, an adult beverage made with rum and fruit juice. Cheers to that! (Don't forget to bring your reusable straw to the island to be an eco-conscious cruiser and leave no trace.)

Brian and Sam concur: they love hanging out in a Castaway Cay cabana!

Scott likes to snorkel in the Castaway Cay lagoon. From 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea memorabilia to Mickey and Minnie statuettes, you can find all sorts of Disney treasures underneath the water. You can either rent gear from Gil's Fins and Boats on Castaway Cay to snorkel or bring your own .

💫 Best Excursions Offered by Disney Cruise Line

Speaking of Castaway Cay and snorkeling, three of our DCL experts weighed in on the best excursions offered by Disney Cruise Line.

✨ STANDOUTS: CARIBBEAN ADVENTURES & ACTIVITIES ✨

Scott expanded on his favorite Castaway Cay activity, adding that snorkeling, biking, and tube rentals at Castaway Cay, though not really a port adventure, are great for exploring all aspects of the island in one trip.

Renting a bicycle is a great way to get around the island and reach the observation tower (because otherwise, it's a long walk to get there) while still having time to relax.

Sam and Brian enjoy parasailing on Castaway Cay. Some of their other favorite excursions during their many DCL cruises include Magan’s Bay Beach Break at St. Thomas and the dolphin encounter in Cabo San Lucas.

They are hoping a well-known favorite of other DCL cruisers, the hike to Pulpit Rock in Stavanger, Norway, lives up to the hype when they go this summer!

💫 Best Disney Cruise Line Itinerary

Largely influenced by the itineraries our DCL experts have experienced, we asked what their favorite DCL itinerary has been. Naturally, more time on the ship is better, so it's no surprise all our experts' answers included longer itineraries!

✨ WINNER: 11-DAY+ ITINERARIES, VARIOUS LOCATIONS ✨

Karen, Brian, and Sam loved the 11-night Southern Caribbean cruise on Disney Fantasy. Karen sailed in June 2017, while Brian and Sam went in 2019. Scott enjoyed his 11-Night Norwegian Fjords and Iceland Cruise on Disney Magic in June 2015.

Brittany and Josh love the Transatlantic sailings. They have done this itinerary several times and love stopping at the unique ports and spending much more time on the ship with plenty of Days at Sea!

The ports on a Transatlantic vary year to year, but most recently, the itinerary included ports in Portugal and Spain. Up until 2022, all of Disney's Transatlantic cruises were on Disney Magic, but the Disney Dream took over the European summer sailing, including Transatlantics, in 2023.

⭐️ Our DCL Experts Weigh in on Adventures by Disney River Cruises ⭐️

Here at Sometimes Sailing, we adore small ship adventures. River cruises are a favorite of Mikkel and Dan's. We couldn't resist asking our six DCL experts to give us their thoughts on Adventures by Disney River Cruises, a partnership between Disney and AmaWaterways.

➜ We discussed river cruise experiences on DCL Duo, episode 178 , if you want to give it a listen.

Josh and Brittany took an Adventures by Disney river cruise on the Danube River this summer and were wowed.

They admit river cruises are very different from ocean cruises ; while Disney Cruise Line is about the ships and the onboard experiences, a river cruise is about the destinations. The two experiences are completely different.

Karen admits she could write a whole essay on Adventures by Disney cruises. (Luckily, our website has a category for river cruises !) She agrees they are incredible yet very different than DCL. She says they are a fantastic way to see Europe up close.

Perhaps you're like Scott and have thought about booking a river cruise. He says they're very intriguing, and it's a vacation he'll eventually take!

Sam and Brian took the plunge and secured their first river cruise adventure; they go on their first river cruise with their son Nathan next Christmas. (We are SO excited for them to see the incredible Christmas markets in Europe on a river cruise !)

⭐️ Fun Questions for our DCL Experts ⭐️

Our last questions for our DCL experts were more playful in nature. We asked them about their most memorable DCL Special Event experience and their opinion about what would make Disney Cruise Line even  better .

💫 Most Memorable Disney Cruise Line Special Event

Though the special events tend to be once-in-a-lifetime, we asked our DCL experts what their favorite special events have been with DCL. If you're like us, you'll surely have DCL envy reading their answers.

✨ DISNEY WISH PREVIEW, CHRISTENING, & MAIDEN VOYAGE PERFORMANCE FROM JODI BENSON (VOICE OF ARIEL), & DISNEY DREAM INAUGURAL CRUISE ✨

Josh and Brittany have attended some truly memorable Disney Cruise Line firsts. They were able to sail on the Disney Wish Enchanted Showcase Preview Cruise before the ship's Maiden Voyage. As two of the first people to sail on the ship, they said it was amazing to experience a decade of changes that Disney Cruise Line brought to their latest ship.

They toured all the different staterooms (including Wish's Tower Suite and one of its stunning Royal Suites) and were some of the first to preview everything Wish offers. Josh was also on the Disney Dream christening cruise in 2011.

Scott fondly looks back on the Disney Wish Christening in Port Canaveral. Captain Minnie was in attendance, of course!

Brian and Sam loved seeing Jodi Benson perform in the main theater on the Wish Maiden Voyage. She's the voice of Ariel from The Little Mermaid.

Mikkel met Ms. Benson years ago on a DVC cruise (Roy E. Disney was on that cruise, too); she's a sweetheart!

💫 What Would Make Disney Cruise Line Even Better?

No matter how amazing we all think Disney Cruise Line is, there is always room for improvement. Who better to ask than those who know DCL ships best?

✨ BIGGER HOT TUBS, IMPROVED TECHNOLOGY/INTERNET, A SPECIALTY RESTAURANT FOR FAMILIES, ADDITIONAL SMALLER SHIPS (LIKE MAGIC & WONDER) ✨

Sentiments include simple things like accounting for larger hot tubs and improved technology implementation into the cruise experience.

(We couldn't agree more – we never understand why a major company, like Disney, is plagued with tech issues, from the DCL and Walt Disney World websites crashing to interruptions during the Disney Cruise Line Check-in process . It's not uncommon for cruise lines to have buggy apps (like Princess Cruises' MedallionClass app ), and Disney's app is no exception; it doesn't always work onboard.)

Other dreams from our DCL experts to improve Disney Cruise Line are loftier yet not unachievable. A specialty restaurant for families would be wonderful. And another hope is for additional smaller ships, around the size of the Magic and Wonder, to be in DCL's future.

Meet the DCL Experts

We spoke to the best of the best when it comes to DCL cruising. We're so grateful for their expert opinions on our Best Disney Cruise Ship categories above.

Collectively, our DCL expert panelists have been on 100 Disney cruises. We'll repeat that: NINETY-NINE CRUISES ! WHOA.

When you add Dan and me in the mix, the DCL number breaks 100+! (We're in the Gold Castaway Club category for 5+ cruises, not Platinum…yet!)

Our panel of experts mentioned above, includes:

• Josh and Brittany Mitchell, Fairytale Wonders & Wish Upon a Star With Us travel
• Brian Flock and Sam Kanner, DCL Duo
• Karen Shelton, My Path Unwinding
• Scott Sanders, Disney Cruise Line Blog

Find out what makes them Disney Cruises Line experts below.

🪄 Josh and Brittany Mitchell, Fairytale Wonders and Wish Upon a Star With Us

This Disney-loving couple is the blogger team behind the website Fairytale Wonders . They have incredible knowledge of Disney theme parks, resorts, and of course, Disney Cruise Line.

What's more, is that they don't just love DCL – they fell in love on a Disney Cruise too, where they met years ago while sailing with their families. They even got engaged at Disney's Aulani resort in Hawaii!

A personal gush here: I adore them, and we originally met after they contacted me to photograph their DCL wedding in 2019. I've often gone to them for my own Disney questions and advice. And, like the sweethearts they are, they always thoroughly answer and provide valuable insight into things we hadn't thought of.

Josh is also a Disney travel agent at Wish Upon a Star With Us , so be sure to reach out if you need to book a DCL vacation! Josh has been on 25 Disney Cruises (which puts him at the elite and newly created “Pearl” Castaway Club level, higher than Platinum), and Brittany has been on 19.

🪄 Brian Flock and Sam Kanner, DCL Duo

The “duo” behind the podcast is Brian and Sam, who have been podcasting about Disney Cruise Line for years.

We've been fortunate enough to be their podcast guests on several episodes, broadening the horizons of their Disney Cruise Line listeners to educate them on river cruises and even Mikkel's time at Imagineering.

Brian, Sam, and their son, Nathan, have been on 16 cruises, which will quickly reach 25 by next November. (As we write this…they're on a Disney Cruise!)

You'll find their Disney podcast episode archives on their website or your favorite podcast app, as well as links to their DCL vlog entries, blog posts, and even a link to their DCL Duo Etsy shop . They are also to thank for introducing us to Paul Thornton, who writes the Joy of Cruising books .

🪄 Karen Shelton, My Path Unwinding

Karen came into our lives in a wonderful Disney way: through Brian and Sam's DCL Duo podcast!

We loved listening to her Disney Wish review while on Wish's inaugural voyage with DCL Duo. We were in awe when we listened to episode 227, where she describes what it was like to be the first family to stay in the Tower Suite on Disney Wish after winning a travel agent lottery onboard. HOW COOL?!

From how Karen talked about Disney Cruise Line ships, we instantly knew she was an expert. This was confirmed when we reached out, and she shared she's been on 13 DCL cruises.

Karen is another great resource for booking your Disney Cruise Line vacation over at My Path Unwinding Travel ; don't hesitate to reach out!

🪄 Scott Sanders, Disney Cruise Line Blog

This DCL expert has his own podcast, where he talks about his experience on over 31 cruises (that's a whopping 162 nights across DCL's five ships – wow) and interviews others who have Disney experiences of their own.

He also runs the well-known website Disney Cruise Line Blog . Scott was first mentioned on our site back when we put together a list of the best Cruise Podcasts . We've been following along ever since. He doesn't podcast as frequently as DCL Duo, however, his info is always valuable.

His blog is always up to date with the latest DCL news, including casting calls, DCL itinerary news, restaurant reviews, Castaway Cay info, and more. Scott has been interviewed as a DCL expert for countless newspapers and is in the Joy of Cruising as well.

Disney Cruise Line Blog puts together an annual DCL Blog Group Cruise, which is a fantastic vacation to consider if you want to travel with other passionate DCL cruisers.

⭐️ DCL Merchandise & Products for Your Cruise ⭐️

Sure, you can get merch on the ship…but did you know you can get Disney Cruise Line shirts, tumblers, Mickey ears, and such before you sail?

Here are a few places to shop:

• Click here to see the searches for Disney Cruise Line on Etsy . (Artists sell super cute nautical-themed Mickey ears, custom Disney cruise totes, and DCL shirts.)
• We put together this special list of fun Disney Cruise Line items that we recommend, which includes some essentials like the handheld pocket fan we swear by. Also check out our Cruise Essentials list.

If you're not already a member of Amazon Prime, we highly recommend it! Here's a link for a FREE 30-day Amazon Prime trial , where you can enjoy free two-day shipping, free Kindle books, special discounts on products, and more.

Also, just a note that we bring along a pocket hotspot when we cruise to connect in ports. It won't work if you're in the middle of the ocean, but it works in most major ports and costs way less than Disney Cruise Line's Wi-Fi packages .

We travel with a Solis hotspot we travel with, and this explains why we love it . Use code “SOMETIMESHOME” to save 10%!

⭐️ In Conclusion: Disney Cruise Ships Ranked and The Best DCL Has to Offer ⭐️

It was so much fun to ask experts who have made careers out of their passion for Disney Cruise Line these questions and get their input on what makes all aspects of Disney Cruise Line “the best.”

Whether you're watching Disney's amazing Broadway-quality shows, riding the AquaDuck at night or relaxing in the spa Rainforest Room (some of their favorite things to do) there is no doubt you'll have a blast on your Disney Cruise Line vacation no matter what ship or itinerary you choose.

Do you have a favorite Disney Cruise Line ship or experience? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Don't forget to sign up for our free printable to help you choose what Disney Cruise Line ship is best for you based on the winners in this post.

Love Disney Cruises? Read this next:

• Disney Cruise Line Check-in Process Online: Everything to Know
• Anti-Nausea Medication and Other Cruise Sea Sickness Solutions 
• Disney Wish Design Details Guests Will Gush Over on DCL

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Comparing the Disney Cruise Ships

Posted on Published: 10/19/2023

Disney cruises are popular for many reasons – for their family-friendly amenities, attention to detail, and commitment to providing family magic.

If you are a regular reader here, you know that I’m an avid cruiser on the Disney Cruise Line. After three sailings on the Disney Fantasy , one on the Disney Wonder , seven on the Disney Dream , and one on the Disney Magic , I’ve had the chance to experience Disney’s newest ship – the Disney Wish , twice. If you are considering a trip on the Disney Cruise Line, you may be wondering what is the best Disney Cruise Line ship for your family vacation.

It’s difficult to answer that without looking at the various itineraries as well as comparing the sizes, restaurants, amenities, and more on the Disney Cruise ships. Here are our comparisons.

Disclosure: I’ve been on one complimentary media preview cruise as well as two cruises as part of Disney Social Media Moms. The rest of my cruises were at my own cost. All opinions are my own.

Check prices of Disney Cruise Line Sailings here .

Itineraries on the Disney Cruise Ships

Before deciding which ship to sail on, you’ll definitely want to look at the various itineraries offered. After all, a Mediterranean cruise is much, much different than an Alaskan cruise. Itinerary and ports of call really should be your first consideration when deciding which ship on the Disney Cruise Line fleet you’ll want to sail on.

The Disney Fantasy always leaves from the Port Canaveral cruise port and sails on seven-day itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Ports include Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Jamaica, the US Virgin Islands, and of course, Castaway Cay .

The Fantasy’s sister ship, the Disney Dream, used to leave from Port Canaveral but now departs from Miami for part of the year. The Dream also has sailings from Fort Lauderdale, San Juan, New York, and Europe.

The other two ships, the Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic have typically traveled around a bit more. Itineraries (especially in the winter) change year by year, but the Wonder typically goes to Alaska, while the Magic has itineraries departing from San Diego, Miami, Galveston, New Orleans, and San Juan.

Miami cruise port to Castaway Cay and Key West . That itinerary was so much fun, and the four-day trip was the perfect amount of time for our girls’ trip.

Once you look at the itineraries, you’ll definitely have a good idea of which Disney Cruise Line ship you’ll want to be on, especially if you plan to travel on an itinerary that only one ship offers.

Size of the Disney Cruise Ships

There are currently three different classes of Disney Cruise Ships. The original ships, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are called the Magic class and are smaller. These ships accommodate a maximum of 2,700 passengers.

The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are the Dream class ships, which accommodate a maximum of 4,000 passengers. The new Triton Class ships (the Disney Wish) also accommodate 4,000 but are a bit bigger in Gross Tonnage.

The smaller ships definitely do feel more intimate but don’t have as many amenities.

Restaurants on the Disney Cruise Ships

While all of the dining rooms on the Disney Cruise Line are fun and offer lots of delicious food options, they do vary by ship. Animator’s Palate, as well as the premium, adult-only Palo, are offered on all original four ships.

Each of the original four ships has a French-themed restaurant, although the names and themes are different. There are also three incredibly fun-themed restaurants – Tiana’s Place on the Disney Wonder , Arendelle on the Disney Wish, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table on the Disney Magic. In addition to dinner, you’ll also be entertained while eating at these three restaurants. 

Each of the ships offers free ice cream, as well as a premium coffee bar. They all have various snack options available throughout the day, including pizza, sandwiches, and salads. The Disney Dream also offers a premium ice cream/dessert spot, called Vanellope’s. Everything in Vanellope’s is offered at an additional fee.

In addition to Palo, there are other adult-only restaurants on some of the ships. The Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream offer Remy, while the Disney Wish has Enchante.

For breakfast and lunch, each of the four original ships has the Cabanas buffet, with both indoor and outdoor seating. On the Wish, there’s Marceline Market, which is similar to a buffet but with servers plating the food.

Bars and Lounges on the Disney Cruise Ships

While most people travel with kids on the Disney Cruise Line, there are still bars and lounges that adults can enjoy. Since many kids will likely spend much of their time in the phenomenal kids’ clubs on board, adults will have lots of opportunities to visit the adult-only areas.

The Disney Fantasy offers a whole area of the ship called Europa, filled with European-themed bars and lounges. Ooh La La, a champagne bar, is my personal favorite.

The Disney Dream ship features the District, which is similar to Europa. It’s located in the same area of the ship, and has similar bars. Instead of Ooh La La, their champagne bar is called Pink. My favorite bar of all the ships is the Meridian Lounge, which is located between Palo and Remy on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

The Disney Wonder and Disney Magic also have bars and lounges. The Wonder has the After Hours adult area with several lounges. In most cases, the bars and lounges are open to kids during the day, but are adult only in the evenings.

On the Wish, two of my favorite bars are the Bayou, and Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge. These two themed, unique lounges are great for a drink before or after dinner.

Programming at these bars, including games and entertainment, is sometimes offered – check your Disney Cruise Line app for details.

Staterooms on the Disney Cruise Ships

While there are some differences between the staterooms on the ships, for the most part, they are very much alike. They offer similar features, and while they are small, they are also comfortable.

My family of four regularly stays in a Deluxe Family Stateroom with Verandah, and we find it to be enough room. We don’t spend too much time in the room because there’s so much to do on the ship.

The Disney Wish, Disney’s newest ship, offers even more concierge rooms than any of the other Disney cruise ships.

Amenities on the Disney Cruise Ships

All of the ships offer a number of amenities that families will love. These ships were clearly built with families in mind.

Each ship offers a pool deck with splash areas and the Funnel Vision signature television screen showing Disney movies throughout the day. On the Disney Fantasy and Dream, you’ll also be able to go on the Aquaduck water coaster. It’s so much fun, and you’ll want to go more than once.

While the Disney Magic and Wonder don’t have the AquaDuck, the Disney Magic does have the AquaDunk, a high-speed water slide tube. The Disney Wish has a new coaster, called the AquaMouse.

There are also sports decks with various amenities, depending on the ship. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy have sports simulators, but you’ll need to make reservations for that in advance.

The ships also all have kids’ clubs, Senses spas , hot tubs, shops, and much more. I also recommend walking around the ship when you first arrive so you can learn about everything that is available to you.

Activities on the Disney Cruise Ships

Each of the ships offers lots of activities, including first-run Disney movies in the movie theater (the Wish has two theaters) and Broadway-style stage live shows in the Walt Disney Theater. The shows do vary by ship, but I’ve seen all of them and everyone is fantastic.

My favorite show is currently Frozen, which plays on the Wonder.  A close runner-up to that is a new Beauty and the Beast show that runs on the Disney Dream. Other newer shows are Aladdin on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Wish, the Little Mermaid on the Disney Wish, and Tangled on the Disney Magic. 

Other activities include family and adult game shows, beverage-tasting seminars, Bingo, and animation classes. There are also Disney character greetings on every ship. Check the Navigatornapp to see the full schedule of events.

Ships typically have a pirate night during one night of the cruise. It’s so much fun – definitely go to the fireworks if there’s a pirate night during your cruise. 

On the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream, kids will love the Midship Detective Agency. This free game lets you become a detective while finding clues throughout the midship section of the boat. When my kids were younger, we’d accompany them on their quest. Once they were a bit older, they loved the freedom of doing it on their own.  

The Disney Wish has a new augmented reality experience, called Disney Uncharted Adventure. It works with the app, and ends with a live event.

So, what is the best Disney Cruise Line ship?

My personal favorite is the Disney Fantasy, the second-newest ship in the fleet (for now). However, that was the first Disney ship that I traveled on, so I’m not sure if that’s why it’s my favorite.

Others really love the Magic. As a smaller ship, it’s definitely more quaint and it’s easier to walk around. I do love the shows on the Magic, as well as the restaurants.

It’s really hard to say which is the best Disney cruise ship because they are all great!

What is your favorite Disney Cruise ship?

See our Disney Cruise Line comparison story here .

Frequently Asked Questions

All of the ships have teen clubs and other great amenities. My teens loved the Disney Wish, which also has the Hero Zone which is where you can play basketball, ping pong, and other sports indoors. But when choosing a ship for teens, I’d focus on the itinerary first.

As someone who sometimes cruises without my kids, I appreciate the adult-only sections. My favorite adult-only area is Satellite Falls, an outdoor sun deck area that is on the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream. I also really love the Rainforest Room in the Senses Spa on the Disney Wish. While all of the ships have Rainforest Rooms (for an additional fee), the one on the Wish is the largest and has a great outdoor area.

More Disney Cruise Ships Resources: Click to read more about the Disney Cruise Line ships including restaurants, tips, itineraries, activities, and more.

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Best Disney Cruise Ship (Ranked for 2024)

Last updated on Jan 1, 2024 by Adam Bryan . This post may contain affiliate links.

If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing the high seas on a Disney Cruise but didn’t know which ship to sail on, then this article is for you!

After sailing on all 5 Disney Cruise ships, I’ll compare every ship’s amenities, itineraries, staterooms, entertainment, kids clubs, and dining, in order to help you decide which one will be the best for your next vacation.

So with that said, let’s jump straight to my rankings of the best Disney Cruise ships!

Disney Cruise Ships Ranked

Best disney cruise ships.

• What’s the same on every Disney Cruise ship?

What Disney Cruise Ship has the Best Food?

Best disney cruise ship for toddlers, best disney cruise ship for adults.

• What’s the best Disney Cruise Ship on a Budget?

What is the most luxurious Disney Cruise ship?

What ship has the best concierge staterooms and lounges, what is the most expensive cruise ship, what are the best disney cruise destinations, how many disney cruise ships are there, does port (left) or starboard (right) have the best views, should i go on a disney cruise before or after disney world, final thoughts.

Here are the Disney Cruise Ships ranked from best to worst, based on amenities, staterooms, dining options, and itineraries.

• Disney Wish
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder

Although there are a lot of similarities between these ships, each one has its own advantages and disadvantages that make them unique in their own ways. I’ll go into more detail about that in the next section.

Here is my list of Disney Cruise ships, ranked!

1. Disney Wish

As Disney Cruise Lines’ newest ship, The Disney Wish is the undisputed goat at this moment.

Yes, the layout is wonky, but the overall aesthetics, stateroom quality, immersive restaurant options, and youth clubs take this boat to the next level.

If you’re looking for the nicest staterooms, this is the ship for you.

Disney Wish Entertainment

The entertainment onboard the Disney Wish is fantastic. The two highlights are the Hero Zone and Luna, which is the main hub for all daily/nightly entertainment including bingo, game shows, and some trivia.

There are two movie theaters onboard where you can view first run Disney movies as well as some older releases.

The Walt Disney Theater is home two three Broadway-style shows – Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and Disney Seas the Adventure.

You can find daily activities at Luna and Keg Compass, just to name a few.

Lastly, you can’t forget about the fireworks at sea.

Disney Wish Dining

The restaurant and food quality onboard the Disney Wish is the best of the entire fleet.

For counter service, you can grab some quick bites from the Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods which fathers fan-favorite options like pizza, burgers, chicken strips, fries, barbecue, tacos and burrito bowls, and all you can eat soft serve ice cream.

I couldn’t believe that they had all you can eat barbecue and build your own burrito bowls on board.

The Main Dining rotation is by far the most immersive thanks to World of Marvel (where Ant Man, The Wasp, and Spider-Man an appearance), Arendelle (a Frozen dining adventure), and 1923 (a glizy steakhouse). Not to mention the adults-only options are top notch at Palo Steakhouse and Enchante.

And let’s not forget about Marceline Market, which is a buffet open for breakfast and lunch. My only complaint about Marceline Market is that the seafood selection is lacking compared to Cabanas onboard the Dream and Fantasy.

In terms of bars and lounges, the Wish is home to the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge, which is so cool. It reminds me of a microscopic version of the Galactic Starcruiser . The Bayou is also a great place to listen to live music and snack on some beignets. There are numerous other bars located throughout the ship, but these are the two most popular.

Disney Wish for Kids

The kids clubs aboard the Disney Wish are by far the most immersive of the fleet thanks in part to Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars Cargo Bay, Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, and Fairytale Hall. The clubs for teens and tweens are just as cool too!

But the highlight of the boat is definitely the AquaMouse waterslide which is the first ever Disney attraction at sea.

2. Disney Dream

Prepare to be dazzled by the Disney Dream, a magnificent vessel that takes guests on an extraordinary voyage filled with imagination and luxury. With its iconic Art Deco design, innovative features, and world-class entertainment, this ship offers an enchanting experience that combines Disney storytelling with the ultimate in comfort and indulgence.

It by far has the best layout of any of the other cruise ships and is well-loved by many guests.

Disney Dream Entertainment

The signature show onboard the Disney Dream is Beauty and Beast, which is great! You can also watch Disney’s Believe which lets you relive some of Disney’s greatest movie moments onstage as well as the iconic Golden Mickeys.

You can view first-run movies in the Buena Vista Theater or even watch some movies under the stars via FunnelVision.

The Dream is also home to Marvel Day at Sea during select sailings!

Throughout the day, you can find daily activities at the D Lounge or some fun adult-only games shows at Evolution.

The best part of the Dream for adults is that there is an exclusive area filled with bars, lounges, and a nightclub in the back of the ship.

Disney Dream Dining

Food-wise, the Dream has three great rotational dining spots – Animator’s Palate (with Crush), Royal Palace, and Enchanted Garden. Animators Palate is by far the most interactive dining experience onboard. And for adults, there is a Palo and Remy, which are both fantastic in their own ways.

For counter-service food, you can find pizza, sandwiches, burgers, and all you can eat ice cream.

Cabanas is probably my favorite Disney Cruise buffet due in part to it’s stone crab selection.

Disney Dream for Kids

Onboard the Disney Dream, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

There’s also a Goofy’s sports deck with mini-golf and an AquaDuck waterslide that’s fun for all ages (adults included).

3. Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is a majestic ship combines sophisticated design, immersive entertainment, and unparalleled service to create an extraordinary vacation experience.

The Fantasy is the sister ship to the Dream as they share almost the same layout and amenities, with a few minor changes in the hard and soft product. The Fantasy currently sails 7-night western and eastern caribbean routes out of Port Canaveral, FL.

Disney Fantasy Entertainment

The Disney Fantasy is home to three Broadway style shows – Aladdin, Frozen, and Disney’s Believe.

Onboard the ship, you’ll also find a movie theater that shows first-run Disney movies as well as D Lounge for daily activities and game shows and a nightclub district called Europe which features several bars, lounges, and a British-mode nightclub called The Tube.

Disney Fantasy Dining

The Fantasy has identical dining locations to the Dream. The main dining restaurants are Animator’s Palate, Enchanted Garden, and Royal Court. There is also two adults-only restaurants called Remy and Palo.

For casual, quick service options, you’ll find a buffet called Cabanas, Flo’s Cafe for burgers, chicken, pizza, and salad, as well as Eye Scream Treats for unlimited ice cream.

Disney Fantasy for Kids

Onboard the Disney Fantasy, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

You’ll also find a Goofy’s Sports deck for some mini-golf

There is also a water roller coaster called the AquaDuck!

4. Disney Magic

The Disney Magic cruise ship embodies timeless Disney charm and elegance, offering a captivating experience for guests of all ages. From its classic design to its immersive entertainment and dining options, this vessel showcases the perfect blend of enchantment, adventure, and relaxation on the high seas.

The Magic can be found on Caribbean itineraries as well as those found in northern Europe.

Disney Magic Entertainment

Onboard the Disney Magic, you’ll can watch Broadway-style live shows in the Walt Disney Theater like Tangled the Musical, Disney Dreams, and Twice Charmed An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story.

There is also a Buena Vista Theater that shows first-run Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars movies.

Not to mention you’ll be able to participate in daily actives in the D Lounge or Premade Lounge during your sailing.

The adult’s only nightclub on the Magic is called Fathoms which is home to disco dance parties and adults-only game shows. You’ll also find bars and lounges scattered throughout each deck.

Disney Magic Dining

The best part about the Disney Magic is the Duck-In Diner, if you love schwarma!

Besides that, you can find three main dining restaurants – Animator’s Palate, Lumiere’s, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table, which is a Tangled-themed immersive dining experience. There is also only one adults-only restaurant called Palo.

Quick eats include Cabanas buffet, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Duck-In Diner, and Eye Scream Treats.

Disney Magic for Kids

On the Disney Magic, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

There’s also a Wide World of Sports which has basketball court!

5. Disney Wonder

With its classic charm and impeccable attention to detail, the Disney Wonder offers a magical experience for Disney fans of all ages. From its elegant design to its captivating entertainment and dining options, the Disney Wonder invites guests to embark on a journey filled with enchantment, imagination, and cherished memories.

The Wonder was the second ever Disney Cruise ship and currently sails the west coast of the US on itineraries for Alaska, Hawaii, Cabo, Fiji, New Zealand, and Australia.

Disney Wonder Entertainment

Onboard the Disney Wonder, you’ll find a nightclub for adults called Azure, a D Lounge for daily activities, a movie theater for first run movies, and a main theater that has nightly performances of Frozen A Musical Spectacular and the Golden Mickeys.

Disney Wonder Dining

The dining options are plentiful onboard the Disney Wonder. The main dining rooms include Animator’s Palate, Tritons, and the fun and musical Tiana’s Place. If you love the Princess and the Frog, you’ll love this spot!

Adults can also dine at Palo, the only adult exclusive restaurant on board available for brunch and dinner.

For counter service, you will find burgers, pizza, and all you can eat soft serve ice cream. Unlike the Magic, there is not a place to get schwarma.

Disney Wonder for Kids

Onboard the Disney Wonder, there are a variety of kid’s clubs such as the It’s a Small World Nursery (for infants), Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab (for kids ages 3 to 12), Edge (for guests ages 11-14), and Vibe (which is strictly for teens).

What’s the same on every Disney Cruise ship?

There are a handful of things that you’ll find on ever Disney Cruise:

• Service – regardless of what ship you’re on, you’ll immediately notice that the world class service is consistent on all of the ships
• Movie Theater – every ship has a movie theater that shows first-run Disney movies
• Pool – every ship will have a pool but the number of pools vary depending on the ship
• Room Service – regardless of stateroom or ship, you have access to complimentary room service 24/7
• Unlimited Ice Cream – you can enjoy all you can eat soft serve ice cream
• Pirate Night – you can participate in Pirate Night on every ship
• Adults-only areas – every ship has a Quiet Cove pool, bars, lounges, as well as an exclusive adults-only restaurant like Palo
• Spa – every ship has a Senses Spa, salon, and gym
• Rotational Dining – every ship has three rotating main dining rooms
• Buffet – you’ll find a buffet on ever Disney Cruise ship
• Character Meet and Greets – you can meet characters on every sailing
• Shopping – every ship has their own stores
• Key to the World Card – every guest will receive a Key to the World Card to access their stateroom and make purchase without cash
• Sail Away Deck Party – you’ll find a sail away deck party on every ship
• Youth Club – you’ll find youth clubs including a nursery onboard every ship
• Alcohol – every ship serves alcohol and each guest over the age of 21 has an alcohol allowance that they can bring onboard
• Concierge Lounge – every ship has a Concierge Lounge available exclusively for guests staying in Concierge staterooms

The Disney Wish has the best food on any Disney Cruise Ship.

Although it’s a tight race between the Magic, Wonder, and Wish, the food options on the Wish are slightly better.

From a counter service perceptive, the Wish has a taco spot and a barbecue spot, both of which can’t be found on any of their other ships.

Plus, it’s the only ship currently to have a Palo Steakhouse which I believe is far better than the normal Palo.

And in case you were wondering, the second best ship in regards to food options is the Disney Magic mainly due to one thing I love so much – schwarma.

The Best Disney Cruise Ship for toddlers (or kids in general) is the Disney Wish .

The Wish is jam packed with amazing Youth Clubs as well as some exciting areas such as the Star Wars: Cargo Bay, Mickey and Minnie’s Captain Deck, Marvel Super Hero Academy, Fairytale Hall, and Imagineering Lab.

Not to mention, the AquaMouse is the best waterslide on any Disney ship!

But, regardless of what ship you sail on, your kids will have so much fun thanks to the countless character meet and greet opportunities, fun Broadway-style shows, all you can eat ice cream, and fun pools.

Hands down, the best Disney Cruise Ship for adults is the Disney Dream .

The Disney Dream is home to several lounges and bars like Skyline, Pub 687, the Meridian, and Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar. The Dream also has a nightclub called Evolution which is home to adults-only live shows, dance parties, and so much more.

Although the Wish is the best ship in the fleet, it lacks a separate area for adults in the evening, similar to what you’ll find in The District. There’s just something nicer about having a separate area to drink and lounge that’s not located directly in the middle of the ship where everyone needs to pass by.

The Disney Dream also has a nice Quiet Cove area for adults as well as a very scenic Senses Spa, Salon, and gym area.

And when it comes to food, adults can dine at both Palo and Remy (no kids allowed).

What’s the best Disney Cruise Ship on a Budget?

If you’re looking to cruise on a budget , the cheapest ship with the lowest priced itineraries can be found on the Disney Magic .

Although prices will vary depending on the time of year you choose to sail, most itineraries on the Disney Magic appear to be a couple hundred dollars cheaper than the ones on the Dream and Wish.

Honestly, you can use these strategies to make any Disney Cruise affordable.

The most luxurious Disney Cruise ship is the Disney Wish . The sheer quality of suites (including the Wish Tower Suite), high-end shopping, superior Concierge Lounge and sundeck, as well as the dining options, and makes it a true masterpiece.

In terms of luxury, nothing else comes close, at the moment.

The best Concierge Lounge and stateroom options can be found on the Disney Wish .

The Wish’s Concierge Lounge and private sundeck is massive and completely blows the other ships’ out of the water.

Not to mention the quality, size, and style of Concierge Suites found on the Wish is significantly nicer and larger than the ones found on any of the other ships.

That said, the perks , benefits, and service you receive as a Concierge guest are completely identical on every ship.

Technically speaking, the most expensive cruise ship has nothing to do with the ship itself but instead the itineraries it follows, as well as the stateroom that you stay in .

Generally speaking, the most expensive destinations include Hawaii, Alaska, and Europe (Mediterranean, Greece, and Norway).

If you sail decide to book a Concierge Stateroom, you’ll notice the significant price different between the next highest room category (Verandah).

That said, The Wish appears to cost more for sailings to the Bahamas cruises compared to the Dream when it previously sailed the same route from Port Canaveral.

Everyone’s opinion will be very different, but based on my own personal sailing experience, these are my favorite destinations ranked:

• Mediterranean (out of Barcelona)
• Western Caribbean

My bucket list includes sailings to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Norway, and Cabo.

There are currently 5 Disney Cruise Ships sailing with two more on the way. The next ship that’s going to start sailing in 2024 is named The Treasure.

The names are:

This strictly depends on what destinations your ship is sailing to. But from personal experience, the Starboard side always seems to have the better views. Not to mention, you can see the fireworks at sea from your stateroom balcony if you are on the Starboard side.

When leaving out of Port Canaveral, the best side will be the Starboard (right) side because it faces the beach in Castaway Cay , as well as the beach when leaving Port Canaveral. When in Nassau, Bahamas, the best side of the boat is Port (left) because gives you the best view of the island.

If it were up to me, I would 100% go on a Disney Cruise after a Disney World vacation .

As fun as Disney World is, it can be pretty stressful and tiring with all of the planning, itinerary-building , walking, heat exhaustion, etc.

Disney Cruises, on the other hand, are the exact opposite . Cruising is more peaceful, there’s less walking involved, and you’ll leave feeling refreshed and relaxed.

That’s why I recommend that you always start with Disney World and then end with a Disney Cruise.

And there you have it!

We’ve sailed through the rankings and comparisons of all five magnificent Disney cruise ships. From the timeless elegance of the Disney Magic to the dazzling innovation of the Disney Dream, the enchanting Disney Fantasy, the classic charm of the Disney Wonder, and the majestic nature of the Disney Wish, each ship offers a unique and unforgettable voyage.

Whether you’re seeking family-friendly adventures, luxurious indulgence, or the perfect blend of Disney magic and relaxation, there’s a ship waiting to fulfill your dreams on the high seas.

So, set your course, plan your voyage , pack your bags , and embark on a Disney cruise experience that will create memories to last a lifetime. Bon voyage!

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About Adam Bryan

Hey what's up, I'm Adam, founder of Urban Tastebud Disney and I spend most of my days eating (and researching, but mostly eating) around Disney Parks to create useful travel planning content that will help you maximize your time and money at Disney.

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What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

This article is your complete guide to finding the best Disney Cruise ship for your Disney Cruise Line (DCL) vacation! Disney has been bringing magic to the high seas since 1998 by giving guests new ways to enjoy a Disney vacation. Since the inaugural ship, the Disney Magic set sail, there have been 4 additional ships added to the DCL fleet for a total of 5 ships. But that garners the question, which Disney Cruise ship is the best? And while no Disney ship is a bad Disney ship, some ships offer experiences that are catered to different groups of people. This means that depending on what ship you book your next cruise on, you could have more or less to do depending on how you want to vacation!

In this complete guide to finding the best Disney Cruise, we are going to break down each ship and give you our list of Disney Cruise ships ranked. DCL has already announced three new ships on the docket with one in the process of being made. This new ship, the Disney Treasure, is scheduled to set sail in the summer of 2024. So be sure to check back here as we may have a new answer to what is the best Disney Cruise ship .

We hope you find this post helpful! And if you are planning a trip to Disney World for your Discounted Disney Cruise Line vacation , be sure to check out our other FREE vacation planning tools. Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time on your next vacation and find the cheapest Walt Disney World vacation packages!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Disney World check out our Disney Crowd calendar!

 Disney World Crowd Calendar

Best Disney Cruise Ships Overview

From enjoying an almost all-inclusive vacation, to taking in the sights of open water mixed with the magic of Disney. There is no other vacation like a Disney Cruise Line vacation . Currently, there are 5 ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. From oldest to newest there the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Fantasy, Disney Drea, & Disney Wish. But which ship is the best Disney ship? As a current member of the Disney Castaway Club, I can confidently tell you that the Disney Wish is the  best Disney Cruise ship . And not just because it’s the newest!

What is the B est Disney Cruise Ship?

• The Disney Wish gets the Golden Mickey Award for being the best Disney Cruise ship. With its ample adult-only spaces, unique kids clubs, weather-controlled recreation area, and one-of-a-kind Funnel Suite , this ship is hands down the best Disney Cruise .

All 5 Disney Cruise Ships Ranked

• Disney Magic
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Wonder
• Disney Dream
• Disney Wish

Let it be known that while this is an article on all 5 of the D isney ships ranked , it was almost impossible to do so. Each ship is carefully crafted to fit an ideal vacation. So no matter if you want to relax, explore, sleep in, or celebrate a milestone with or without kids, there will be a ship that’s better for you. I’ll break down the reasons why each ship landed where it did and what you can expect out of the best Disney cruises.

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All 5 Disney Ships Ranked – Which Disney Cruise Ship is the Best?

#5 – disney magic.

Destinations:   Caribbean, Bahamian, & Mediterranean Cruises

Length of Sailings:   2 – 10 Night Sailings

Number of Staterooms:  875

Dining Options:   On Disney Magic, the main rotational dining locations include Lumiere’s, Rapunzel’s Royal Table, & Animator’s Palate. For quick bites throughout the day, you can enjoy food from Duck-In Diner, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Eye Scream Treats, Preludes, & Frozone Treats. Additional add-on dining includes the 18+ restaurant Palo and the character dining experience Royal Court Royal Tea. Other dining options include the ship’s everyday buffet located on Deck 9 called Cabanas, as well as 24-hour room service. 

Entertainment Options:  Broadway-style shows including Tangled: The Musical, Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story, and Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic. Other live entertainment venues are the Buena Vista Theater, Soul Cat Lounge, Fathoms, Keys, & D Lounge.

Activities for Kids: Kiddos  6 months – 3 years, kids can enjoy the “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview:   While the Disney Magic comes in last place on our list of D isney Cruise ships ranked , we highly recommend this ship if it’s your first time cruising or you prefer to have a consolidated vacation experience. Since this is the first ship in the Disney fleet, it is the smallest. Everything on this ship is easy to access which makes for a stress-free, low-planned vacation. This ship can be a great option and should be in consideration for the best Disney Cruise ship for families . While there is another ship that I’ve given that title to, the Disney Magic comes in a close second! 

Related Post: Disney Cruise Cost Per Person

#4 – Disney Fantasy

Destinations:  Caribbean & Bahamian Cruises

Length of Sailings:  5, 6, 7, & 10 Night Sailings

Number of Staterooms:  1,250

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include Enchanted Garden, Royal Court, & Animators Palate. Quick Service dining throughout the ship includes Sweet on You, Flo’s Cafe, Eye Scream Treats, Frozone Treats, & Senses Juice Bar. Like the Disney Magic, the all-day buffet is Cabanas located on Deck 11. Additional fee restaurants on the Disney Fantasy include the adult-only restaurants Remy & Palo as well as the all-ages character dining Royal Court Royal Tea. Complimentary Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  Disney Fantasy’s Broadway-style shows include Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, Disney’s Believe, & Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular. Other locations with entertainment include Vista Cafe, D Lounge, & the Buena Vista Theater.

Activities for Kids: Little ones aged 6 months – to 3 years can enjoy the “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview:  When I mentioned earlier that  ranking Disney Cruise ships was like splitting hairs and this is the perfect example. The Fantasy is the sister ship to the Disney Dream meaning it is nearly identical. The second newest DCL ship falls in 4th place because of the entertainment and destination options. However, this ship is still one of the best Disney Ships for visiting Disney’s private island. While its destinations offer a relaxing cruise experience, the ship docks at limited ports. The downfall of Frozen being the main show on the Fantasy is that it is now outdone by the Arendelle dining experience on the new Disney Wish.

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#3 – Disney Wonder

Destinations:  Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, & South Pacific Cruises

Length of Sailings:  3, 4, 5, 7, 9, & 10 Night Sailings

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include Tiana’s Palace, Triton’s, & Animators Palate. Quick Service dining throughout the ship includes Daisy De-Lites, Pinocchio’s Pizzeria, Eye Scream Treats, Pete’s Boiler Bites, & Preludes. Cabanas, the all-day buffet is located on Deck 8. Additional fee restaurants on the Disney Fantasy include the 18+ restaurants Palo as well as the character dining Royal Court Royal Tea. Complimentary Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  Disney Wonder’s Broadway-style shows include Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic, & The Golden Mickey’s. Other locations with entertainment include Azure, D Lounge, the Buena Vista Theater, & Cadillac Lounge.

Activities for Kids:  On the Disney Wonder, l ittle ones aged 6 months – to 3 years can enjoy “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview:  For a while, the Disney Wonder held the number 2 spot on our list of  D isney Cruise ranking  solely for its magnificent destinations. This ship hands down gets the award for the best Disney Cruise ship with the best views. An Alaskan Cruise is regarded as one of the most breathtaking cruises anyone can take. And with the route the Disney Wonder takes, it’s no wonder it’s the oldest ship this high on the list which is the best Disney Cruise ship. To make ranking Disney Cruise ships even more difficult, the Wonder will be the first in the DCL fleet to travel the South Pacific!

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#2 – Disney Dream

Destinations:  Bahamian, European, Norwegian, & Mediterranean Cruises

Length of Sailings:  3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, & 13 Night Sailings

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include Enchanted Garden, Royal Court, & Animators Palate. Quick Service dining includes Venellope’s Sweets & Treats, Flo’s Cafe, Eye Scream Treats, Frozone Treats, Senses Juice Bar, & Preludes. Being the Disney Fantasy’s sister ship there is also the Cabanas buffet on Deck 11. Additional fee restaurants include the 18+ restaurants Remy & Palo and the character dining Royal Court Royal Tea. Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  The Broadway-style shows include The Golden Mickey’s, Disney’s Believe, & Beauty and the Beast. Other entertainment includes Vista Cafe, District Lounge, D Lounge, & the Buena Vista Theater, & Evolution.

Activities for Kids:  Aboard the Disney Dream, l ittle ones aged 6 months – 3 years can enjoy “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe area to enjoy. 

Overview: I am partial to the Disney Dream since it was my  first ever Disney Cruise. The only reason it is now number 2 on the list to discover  which Disney ship is the best is for its newly added destinations. Until 2022, the Dream sailed the Bahamas stopping at Nassau and Castaway Cay. With Disney Wish now taking that sailing location, the Dream has taken on many European and Mediterranean destinations. But the prized possession of this ship is the Beauty and the Beast show. In 2018, the show was named the Best Theatrical Performance by the esteemed International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA). It became the first cruise ship production to ever secure this honor.

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#1 – Disney Wish – The B est Disney Cruise Ship

Destinations: Bahamian Cruises

Length of Sailings:  3 & 4 Night Sailings

Number of Staterooms:  1.254

Dining Options:  Rotational dining locations include 1923, Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure , & Worlds of Marvel. Quick Service dining options are Inside Out: Joyful Sweets, Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods, Wheezy’s Freezies, Keg & Compass, & Cove Cafe. The buffet on the Disney Wish is named Marceline Market. Additional fee restaurants include the 18+ Enchante & Palo Steakhouse and the character dining option Olaf’s Royal Picnic. Room Service is also available 24 hours a day.

Entertainment:  Disney Wish’s Broadway-style shows include Disney Seas the Adventure, The Little Mermaid, & Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular. Other locations with entertainment include Nightingale’s, Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge, The Bayou, & Luna.

Activities for Kids:  Aboard the Disney Wish, l ittle ones aged 6 months – to 3 years can enjoy the “it’s a small world” Nursery. Ages 3 – 12 can explore Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lounge. 11 – 14 can hang out at Edge, and 14 – 17 have the Vibe and The Hideaway areas to enjoy. 

Overview:  I can say with confidence that the Disney Wish is the  best Disney Cruise ship . It has an almost endless amount of options to keep guests of all ages busy on its sailings. But it is also by far the most beautifully designed ship in the entire fleet. This is the first ship Disney has veered from the classic “golden age” of cruise liners theme and went with a more mid-century modern interior design. This easily also makes it the nicest Disney cruise ship . It also has many firsts for the cruise line industry. Most notably being the first Disney attraction at sea and the first ever Funnel Suite. That’s right, there is a 2-story almost 2,000-square-foot room in the forward funnel.

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Best Disney Cruise Ship Categories 

If our list of D isney Cruise ships ranked  shows us anything is that each Disney Cruise Line vacation has something for everyone. But if you’re looking for a specific type of vacation, I’ve taken some popular vacation experiences and assigned which ship I think is the best Disney Cruise ship for that experience. I enjoy taking Disney Cruise Line vacations for the food and the relaxing experiences a cruise can offer. It all comes down to personal preference! Below you’ll find which Disney Cruise is the best for food, families, adults, & for visiting Castaway Cay!

What is the Best Disney Cruise for Food?

• The Disney Wish is the  best Disney Cruise Line ship for foodies. Not only does it have the most restaurants of any Disney ship, but it also has the largest variety of food options to enjoy! The ship has 17 dining options and that doesn’t include lounges that serve snacks! Of those 17 options, you can enjoy almost every type of cuisine you can think of! But I would be remiss to mention that you can enjoy unlimited Premium Mickey Bars on every Disney Cruise ship! That alone makes every ship the best Disney Cruise ship.

What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship for Families?

• Families will find the  best Disney ship  for their vacation to be the Disney Magic. While it’s important to note that every DCL ship is designed with families in mind, this ship is easier to navigate, sails close to the continental US, and has the benefits of every other ship in the fleet. One of the other main reasons this is the best Disney Cruise ship for families is for the ship-specific locations of  Rapunzel’s Royal Table, Tangled: The Musical, and Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story. 

Best Disney Cruise Ship for Adults

• By far the  best Disney Cruise ship for adults is the Disney Wish. It has the most adult-only areas and the most adult-designed areas of any Disney ship! I will say that if you’re an adult wishing to enjoy the best spa on a Disney Cruise ship, look into sailing on the Dream of Fantasy. I enjoyed their Senses Spa more than the Wish simply due to the fact the spa on the Wish is located indoors. With the amount of adult-only locations coupled with a more secluded adults-only section of the ship, the Disney Wish takes the cake for the best Disney Cruise ship for adults.

Which is the Best Disney Cruise Ship for Castaway Cay?

• Once again, we have the say the  best Disney Cruise ship for Castaway Cay  is the Disney Wish. With an extremely close second place to the Disney Fantasy. While about 97% of Disney Fantasy cruises stop at Castaway Cay, 100% of the Disney Wish cruises will dock at Disney’s private island. There will be more options to visit Disney’s private islands with the opening of its new port Lighthouse Point in 2024.

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Best Disney Cruise Ship FAQ

Q: Where is the Best Location on a Disney Cruise Ship?

A: For the best views on a Disney cruise ship, you should aim for the very front or the very back of the ship. But if you’re sailing on the Disney Wonder, you will have no bad view since it is the D isney Cruise’s best ship  for views. However, if you are prone to getting seasick and want to minimize movement, the center part of the ship is the best location. For instance, consider reserving Deck 6 Midship on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, Deck 6 or 7 Midship on the Disney Wish, and Decks 7 and 8 Midship on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. Being in these midship areas will help reduce the feeling of motion and potential seasickness during your cruise.

Q: What is the Best Deck on a Disney Cruise Ship?

A: The best deck on a Disney ship is going to be two floors below the buffet. There is no doubt you will be heading to the buffet on your cruise. Make life easier by staying closer to the one thing you know you will use every day other than your room! We recommend staying two floors below and getting a stateroom near the stairwell. The elevators will be crowded and usually have a line during peak dining times. So having access to the stairwell will make getting to the buffet easier. It’s also better to not stay right under the restaurant because of the heavy foot traffic and early morning cleaning/set up of the buffet.

Q: What is the Best Side of a Disney Cruise Ship?

A: This comes down to preference on what you want to look at when you’re docked at port. If you stay on the Starboard side or the right side of the ship, you will face away from the dock. If you stay on the left or Port Side of the ship, you will face whatever port you’re at. I enjoy staying on the port side of the ship. This way I’m able to watch the vessel pull in and out of port and also watch people disembark or embark the ship.

Q: Are all Disney Cruises the same?

A: No, all Disney cruises are not the same. While the ships have been released in classes and the classes of ships are built similarly, they are not the same. The Disney Magic and Wonder are one class, the Disney Dream and Fantasy are another, and the Disney Wish and soon-to-be Disney Treasure are one class. The themes of the ships are completely different as well as the restaurants, shows, ports of call, and even themed nights can vary by vessel.

Q: Is the Disney Dream bigger than Disney Magic?

A: Yes, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are larger than the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic. Being the first ships in the DCL fleet, the Wonder and Magic are smaller than the newer ships. The Magic and Wonder come in at a total length of 965 feet while the Dream and Fantasy measure a whopping 1,115 feet long. But all dwarf in comparison to the newest ship, the Disney Wish. The newest ship to the fleet measures a staggering 1,119 feet in length.

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Kurt Gillman

Kurt is a former Disneyland Cast Member and seasoned explorer and is your trusted guide to the world of theme park travel. With countless visits to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Tokyo Disneyland, and even aboard the Disney Cruise Line, Kurt's expertise and passion make him the perfect companion for your enchanting adventures. As the Multi-Media Manager, Content Creator and Writer for The Park Prodigy, Kurt hopes his experience and knowledge of the theme park industry can not only save people money, but give them the stress free vacation of their dreams. If he isn’t found trying the newest treats in Disneyland, Kurt enjoys relaxing at home with his dog Sam and playing video games with friends in his free time.

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Ranking The Best Disney Cruise Ships For 2023

By Lisa Gilmore Leave a Comment

You’ve resolved to travel more, to get out of your home, your neighborhood, and even your town. You may have even resolved to travel beyond the Disney Parks and see more of the world beyond EPCOT’s World Showcase. That’s right — you’re taking a Disney Cruise !

The Disney Wish

But how do you choose which ship to cruise on? Now that Disney’s fleet has expanded to five ships ( soon to be six !), you might be struggling to decide which ship is right for you and your family. And since Disney Cruises are quite the investment of your family vacation dollars, that is an important decision. So, we’re here to help you break it down!

The  Disney Cruise Line  fleet is comprised of  five world-class ships : the  Disney Magic , the  Disney Wonder , the  Disney Dream , the  Disney Fantasy,  and the newest ship in the fleet: the  Disney Wish .   The fleet will be joined by the  Disney Treasure in 2024! They all sail to different ports and in different areas of the world, so just your itinerary of WHERE you want to travel will narrow down your selection quite a bit.

And if you’re also restricted on cruising dates, well, that will also help narrow down your options. For example, if your travel plans have you cruisin’ around Europe, then you’ll be sailing on the Disney Dream — because that’s the only ship that currently sails in Europe.

Not a bad view

But we’re gonna take travel dates and travel destinations off of the table and JUST look at the ships and what the ships have to offer. We’re gonna rank all five ships based off of some standard criteria so YOU know which ship will best fit your needs and the needs of your family.

Best Cruise for Food

Best cruise for adults, best cruise for kids, best cruise for teens.

• Best Cruise for Recreation 
• Best Cruise for Entertainment 

Mickey and Minnie on the Disney Wish!

So, now that you have an idea of what this is all about, let’s dig into these ships! We have a full overview of everything the ships have to offer , and now we’re highlight the ships that top each category of fun, food, and frivolity!

Sometimes evaluating food, restaurants, and dining experiences on Disney Cruise ships can be difficult because many of them offer the same options. All of the ships have a sort of food court-style quick service options on the top deck, near the pools. You can find fine dining options like Palo or Remy (or both) on most of the ships. And Animator’s Palate has become a Disney Cruise dining icon on the ships. So, how do you distinguish “best food” on the ships when so many options are so similar on most of the ships?

Animator’s Palate restaurant

Now, consider this a good thing! It’s difficult to decide the best and that means that when selecting your cruise, you don’t have to worry about FOMO! If your cruise destination has you sailing on the Disney Wonder instead of the Disney Dream because so many experiences are similar across the fleet, that means that you won’t be missing much (if anything).

Now we know that makes us sound like we’re teasing you. “Hey DFB, you said you’d give the Best Cruise for Food, and now you’re saying it’s all good. What’s the deal?” Ok, ok, we hear you! There IS a Best Cruise for Food — the standout in this category is the Disney Wish .

The Disney Wish is the newest Disney Cruise and it has SO many dining options, some are similar to experiences on other ships, and some are completely unique to the Wish! And there’s just MORE to choose from!

Food on the Disney Wish

The Wish has the traditional Disney Cruise Line three dining room rotational dining service which rotates among three brand new dining stories: Worlds of Marvel , 1923 , and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure .  These new dining experiences are unique, fun, engaging and let’s face it, delicious! You’ll also find the poolside quick service options that you’ve come to expect on a Disney Cruise, but the quality of these locations on the Wish just stands apart from the other ships.

Who knew Ant-Man was such a good cook?

The Wish just also goes above and beyond in some other categories, like having some great spots to snag specialty coffee orders, for those who need a latte while they cruise, you can pick up your caffeine fix at Wishing Star Cafe and also in Marceline Market (the top deck buffet service), both in addition to the Cove Bar & Café you can find on all of the Disney ships. The same can be said of the bars and lounges, the Wish has NINE (well, TEN if you include Hook’s Barbery , which will serve up some rum while you get your beard trimmed)! There’s even a $5,000 cocktail you can get at the exclusive Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge .

Awesome Cast Members!

The Disney Wish wins the food category, but that doesn’t mean that the other ships are losers. You’ll still have amazing and memorable meals aboard any of Disney’s ships. But, if you’re going to pick a cruise just based on the food alone, and you don’t care where or when you cruise, then you’ll want the Disney Wish.

All of the Disney Wish Restaurants

Disney Cruises are great for families and kids, but they make amazing vacations and retreats for adults, as well. Whether you’re traveling solo, with some pals, on your honeymoon or anniversary, or with your family but just getting a break from the younger members of your crew, the Disney Cruise ships offer fun, relaxation, and luxury for grown-ups.

You just read all about which cruise wins for food and you’re thinking, with ten bars and lounges, that the Wish has to top the Adults category, too, don’t you? Well, SURPRISE, it’s up there but didn’t win this round.

Who edged out their sister ships on this category? The  Disney Fantasy .

Disney Fantasy

As mentioned above, many of the ships offer overlapping experiences and offerings, so you’ll find adult-only areas, pools, lounges, spas, and decks on all of the ships. But what sets the Fantasy apart from her sisters is that her over-18 options are conveniently located in the same general section of the ship. The adult dining options of Palo,  Meridian , and Remy are snuggled together at the aft of Deck 12, but Deck 4 seems to be created with adults in mind with seven variously themed bars and lounges ( Vista Cafe, D Lounge, Ooh La La, La Piazza, O’Gills Pub, Skyline, and The Tube ), not to mention Tiffany & Co gift shop for those looking for some duty-free jewelry purchases.

Ooh Laa Laa

Again, you’ll find adult-only sections on every Disney Cruise. However, if your cruise plans are centered around a grown-up adventure, then you might want to see where the Fantasy will take you!

Disney Fantasy Cruising: 2023 Restaurant Guide

Well, this is all Disney Cruises, isn’t it? If Disney is known for anything, it’s quality entertainment for kids, so you know you’re kids are gonna have a good time on a Disney Cruise. But is any one ship a little better at this than the others?

Oceaneer Club

All of the ships have kids-only areas that are age specific with activities and entertainment tailored to that age-range. These Disney Oceaneer Clubs and Oceaneer Labs are on all of the cruise ships, but there are different themes and Disney stories utilized on each ship. But one ship pulls ahead of its peers in this category: The Disney Wish .

The Wish is really a benefactor of its older siblings. The Wish started her cruising career in 2022, nearly 24 years after the first official Disney Cruise ship, The Disney Magic. That’s 24 years for Imagineers, technology, and research to optimize the best possible experience and space for little cruisers to enjoy. And they’ve really done their homework and it begins before they even enter the Oceaneer space — at the entrance, which is A SLIDE! Parents check their kiddos into the Club on Deck 3, and then they SLIDE DOWN to Deck 2, where the club is located (sorry, it’s a kids-only slide, no adults allowed).

You can enter the Disney Wish kids’ area through a SLIDE!

The Oceaneer Club has multiple spaces where kids can choose to hang out and participate in different activities. There’s a stage in the hub of the club where there will be special shows and character appearances. And then it breaks off into different themed areas like  Fairytale Hall for fans of Disney royalty; Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, where kids participate in hands-on activities;  Marvel Super Hero Academy for those Avengers-in-training; Star Wars Cargo Bay for those force-sensitive in the family; and Mickey & Minnie’s Captain’s Deck with an indoor playground set for getting some of that youthful energy out.

Oceaneer Lab

And while it’s not located in the Oceaneer Club, but you can’t forget about Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique where kids can get transformed into their favorite Disney characters! And other kid-loved spaces like pools, waterslides….er water-coasters, the Hero Zone , and well, you know, the whole rest of the ship.

The Disney Wish includes an Imagineering Lab for kids!

So the Wish is the best cruise for kids, but another thing to consider is the best cruise ship for adults with kids and we’d consider the Magic or the Wonder would fit that role as those ships are smaller, easier to navigate, and overall just a bit less complicated. So, this is kind of a “yes, but” answer, but still something worth considering!

Explore the Kids Clubs on the New Disney Cruise Ship — The Wish

Let’s look at that teen stereotype of kinda moody, a little sassy, too “grown up” for cartoons, but still a little goofy and definitely not shouldering the burden of student-loan debt or a mortgage, but dealing with the nuances of maintaining their cool in a virtual universe of social media. Can Disney find something to appeal to the complex creatures that are human teenagers? Is there anything on a Disney Cruise ship that might entice a teen to put down their phone (or adults too for that matter, you know who you are), and have dinner with their family, watch a show, participate in a game, or even make some new friends and actually talk to them IRL (that’s “in real life” for you grown-ups out there) rather than just communicating through text?

Disney had their work cut out for them to find new and engaging ways to reach the ever-evolving interests or teenagers. And as technology, culture, and trends seems to change every five years, that is a daunting task to remain relevant for this dynamic group of cruisers. Yet, they managed to do it! (Disney, you are really a place where dreams come true!) But which ship did it best?

We’re starting to sound like a bit of a broken record, but we like the Disney Wish and Disney’s Dream and Fantasy (since they have the same options).

Disney Wish’s indoor or weather-controlled Hero Zone  is a multi-use space for so many activities. This includes basketball, ping pong, air hockey, shuffleboard, and foosball. Families can use this area too, but it’s especially great for teens. It’s not an accident that the Hero Zone is near Vibe on Disney Wish.

Hero Zone ©Disney

The Wish is the only ship to have The Hideaway for teens and tweens. Yet the other ships – Disney Dream, Fantasy, and Magic – all have Chill , a teens-only spa for ages 13 to 17.

Learn All of the Disney Wish Secrets

Best cruise for recreation (pools & spa).

For all of these categories, we can honestly say, “all of the ships are great, but this one just squeaks out ahead”, but not for this category. When it comes to the best Disney Cruise ship for Recreation (we’re talking pools and spas), The  Disney Wish is the clear front runner.

Aaaaahh….

Now, yes, you will find plenty of pools and a luxurious spa on each and every one of the Disney Cruise ships, but the Wish just does them bigger, better, and more! The AquaMouse   is not your average poolside, or even your cruise-specific “over the edge of boat” slide, it’s a complete water attraction! You’ll get in a 2-seater ride vehicle and go up into a tunnel that will take you into the world of Disney animated shorts, either “Scuba Scramble” or “Swiss Meltdown” as your story, and you’ll see the story playing out on the screens around you!

Beyond the epic water coaster, there are a total of  10 pools and water play areas , in fact — each named after a Disney character! And for the little ones, there’s a  Toy Story Splash Zone , which has  Toy Story characters that squirt water!  Quiet Cove  is an  adults-only area of the deck , where you’ll find an infinity pool, whirlpool spa, and bar.

Toy Story Splash Zone

And the Spa?! The Senses Spa is on all of the Cruise Ships, but on the Disney Wish, there are all of the luxurious indoor treatment areas and an outdoor rainforest relaxation space. Unique to the ship is Disney Cruise Line’s first-ever ice lounge for thermal therapies, plus other treatments like  heated ergonomic loungers.  There are also multiple different rooms to use like the  sauna , steam room , and frigidarium, or the cold room.

Other Cruises have the Bibbidi Bobbiti Boutiques for little ones to get the royal treatment, but only the Wish has Hook’s Barbery, where dapper folks can get spiffed up in a setting reminiscent of a cigar room, and could also sip on a nice cognac or rum in the process. It’s a BARber shop, get it?

Hook’s Barbery

Will you get the chance to pamper yourself and relax on other Disney cruises? Yes. But if your final destination is relaxation decadence, then you want the Wish.

The Most Relaxing Spots on Disney’s New Cruise Ship

Best cruise for entertainment (clubs, shows, and characters).

Disney Cruise Line also offers  free movies in multiple spots – out on the funnel vision screen near the pools, as well as in the movie theater on the ship. The movie theater even offers runs of new movies that are currently out in theaters. There are also  Broadway-style shows in the theater onboard the ship. Typically these large productions are offered more than once a night. Each ship has its own unique performances.

Walt Disney Theatre

In the ship’s Atriums, Disney Characters meet and interact with guests throughout the day, and the ships all set off evening fireworks. And there are spaces onboard for quizzes, trivia, and games for families or just adults to enjoy. The ships are all floating entertainment centers! But a few of them offer a bit more in this category.

The Disney Dream and Fantasy both host the Midship Detective Agency, an interactive game taking guests all around the ship to solve a mystery. There are three different mystery options involving Mickey and friends, characters from Disney’s 101 Dalmations, or the Muppets. And we do love a good Muppet Caper!

Disney Cruise Line Atrium

The Disney Wish  has learned from its older siblings and created a unique Atrium Stage which hosts unique character shows throughout the cruise and character meet-and-greet opportunities. It also has its own interactive game aboard, Disney Unchartered Adventure.  Disney Unchartered Adventure is its own interactive game using the Play Disney Parks app and AR technology on your mobile device to play games and interact with your favorite Disney characters.

So, which ship comes out on top? We lean toward the Dream and Fantasy . We love the Midship Detective Agency and how families can play it together or individuals can play it solo. Plus, Muppets. ‘Nough said.

SNEAK PEEK at Pixar Characters Coming to Disney Cruise Line Soon

Like we’ve said about a hundred times already, there’s no such thing as a  bad Disney Cruise. Your ship will provide you with impeccable service, special memories, amazing food, fun activities, and relaxation galore, no matter when or where you cruise. But if you’re looking for some very specific onboard experiences, these categories may help you find the right ship for you and your family.

Disney Dream

And remember, in 2024, the new Disney Treasure will launch and may upset this whole list! Disney also recently acquired another ship which will receive a Disney makeover and debut sometime in 2025 . Looking to cruise to Alaska? Get all the details here. 

We’ll keep you posted on how these new additions to the Disney fleet stack up, so make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter to keep up with all of the Disney Cruise Line and Disney Parks information!

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What you need to know about disney cruise line, learn all about disney cruise line and its various ships, explore disney’s mega cruise ship – the wish, a full list of what you can’t bring on a disney cruise, these are the best times to book your disney cruise, the best ways to save space in your tiny cruise cabin, 10 things you need on your next cruise (that you won’t think to pack), what it’s like to live on a cruise ship for 6 months, join the dfb newsletter to get all the latest disney news delivered right to your inbox click here to subscribe.

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Ranking the Best Disney Cruise Ships from Best to Worst

If you’re considering treating yourself and your family to a Disney cruise this summer, you’re probably curious about which ship is the best. In this video, “Ranking the Best Disney Cruise Ships from Best to Worst,” you’ll discover the top-ranked ships in Disney’s fleet. Featuring a variety of unique features and highlights, each ship offers high-quality entertainment, family-friendly experiences, and personalized attention and service. The video also gives a sneak peek into Disney Wish, the newest cruise ship set to embark on its maiden voyage in July 2022. Whether you’ve been on a Disney cruise before or are new to the experience, this video is sure to provide insights and help you make the best choice for your upcoming vacation.

Table of Contents

Disney Cruise Ships

Disney Cruise ships are known for their high-quality entertainment and family-friendly experiences. With a fleet of four ships currently at sea and four more being built, there are plenty of options for your next cruise vacation. In this article, we will explore each Disney Cruise ship’s unique features and highlights, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. From accommodations and dining options to entertainment and family-friendly activities, we will cover it all. Let’s dive in!

This image is property of i.ytimg.com.

1. Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder is ranked as the best Disney Cruise ship , and for good reason. This ship offers a wide range of amenities and activities for guests of all ages. With a maximum occupancy of 2,700 passengers, the Disney Wonder provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Ship Overview

The Disney Wonder debuted in 1999 but was updated in 2019 with several new entertainment options. One of the standout features is the French Quarter Lounge, which offers live music and New Orleans-inspired aesthetics. With 10 family-focused areas, six youth clubs, and seven adults-only spaces, there is something for everyone on board.

Accommodations

The state rooms on the Disney Wonder can accommodate up to four guests, while suites can sleep up to seven guests. The cabins are well-appointed and offer comfortable amenities such as flat-screen TVs, sitting areas, and separate showers and bathtubs.

Dining Options

The Disney Wonder offers six themed dining options, including one adults-only restaurant perfect for a romantic date night. While it may not have as many dining options as some of the other ships, the quality of the food and service is top-notch.

Entertainment

One of the highlights of the Disney Wonder’s entertainment offerings is the “Frozen: A Musical Experience.” This Broadway-worthy show is sure to delight audiences of all ages. The ship also offers a variety of other live performances, including music and theater productions.

Family-Friendly Activities

For families traveling with children, the Disney Wonder has a multitude of activities to keep the young ones entertained. There are 10 family-focused areas and six youth clubs, providing plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure. Adults can relax at the adults-only Quiet Cove pool while the kids are having a blast.

2. Disney Magic

The Disney Magic is another fantastic choice for a Disney Cruise. This ship, while slightly smaller than some of the others, offers a more intimate and less crowded experience.

Accommodating up to 2,400 guests, the Disney Magic is known for its ease of navigation and less congested areas. The ship features unique entertainment options and a variety of dining choices.

The state rooms on the Disney Magic can accommodate up to four guests and offer comfortable amenities such as flat-screen TVs and iPhone docking stations. The ship also has suites available with added amenities like concierge service and extensive media libraries.

With eight eateries, including two exclusively for adults and a buffet, the Disney Magic provides a diverse range of dining experiences. Guests can enjoy delicious meals while immersing themselves in the magical Disney atmosphere.

The Disney Magic offers a Broadway-inspired stage show called “Tangled: The Musical,” which is a must-see for fans of the Disney movie. After the show, guests can continue the fun at the Snuggly Duckling bar, where they can enjoy games, live music, and meet their favorite Disney characters .

The Disney Magic features an AquaDuck water coaster that is sure to thrill guests of all ages. Additionally, there are three pools, a splash pad for younger children, and a teens-only Chill Spa. With a range of activities catered to different age groups, there is never a dull moment on the Disney Magic.

3. Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is yet another excellent choice for a Disney Cruise. Similar to its sister ship, the Disney Dream, the Disney Fantasy offers a range of amenities and activities for guests to enjoy.

Sailing out of Port Canaveral in Florida, the Disney Fantasy is a large ship with a length of 1,148 feet and a weight of nearly 130,000 tons. This impressive vessel can accommodate up to 4,000 passengers and has a crew of over 1,400.

The state rooms on the Disney Fantasy can accommodate up to four guests and offer picturesque ocean views or verandas. The cabins are equipped with flat-screen TVs, iPhone docking stations, and mini-fridges, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

With 10 themed restaurants, including two exclusively for adults and a buffet, the Disney Fantasy provides a wide range of dining options. Guests can indulge in delicious cuisine while immersing themselves in the enchanting Disney atmosphere.

The Disney Fantasy is home to several entertainment options, including the Star Wars-themed Command Post, the Marvel Super Hero Academy, and a Tiffany and Company retail store. Guests can also enjoy nightly stage performances, 3D films, and a range of youth clubs for younger passengers.

The Disney Fantasy offers a range of family-friendly activities, including the Goofy Sports Deck activity area and a Sports Simulator. With multiple youth clubs available, parents can relax at the adults-only Quiet Cove pool while their children have a blast. The ship also features six adult bars and lounges for parents to enjoy.

4. Disney Dream

The Disney Dream, while ranking at number four on our list, is still a fantastic choice for a Disney Cruise. This large and impressive ship offers a multitude of activities and amenities for guests to enjoy.

The Disney Dream is one of Disney’s largest ships, with a maximum occupancy of 4,000 passengers. Introduced in 2011 and last renovated in 2015, this vessel offers a range of highlights that guests can look forward to.

The state rooms on the Disney Dream offer views of the ocean, and over two-thirds of the cabins provide this beautiful view. The cabins also feature amenities such as sofa beds, making them perfect for families traveling together. Guests can also opt for concierge suites for a little extra space and luxury.

With nine themed restaurants, including two exclusively for adults, the Disney Dream offers a wide range of dining experiences. Guests can enjoy delicious meals while immersed in the enchanting Disney atmosphere.

The Disney Dream features several entertainment options, including the 765-foot AquaDuck water coaster, which provides a thrilling experience for guests. The ship also offers theatrical stage performances featuring fan-favorite Disney characters and a virtual sports simulator.

The Disney Dream prioritizes family-friendly entertainment, with five specialty kids’ clubs and a youth club dedicated to teens. Adults can enjoy some quiet time at the adults-only Quiet Cove pool or indulge in spa treatments at the Senses Spa. In the evening, the District section of the ship comes alive with bustling bars and lounges.

5. Disney Wish (Upcoming Ship)

Although not currently sailing, the Disney Wish is highly anticipated and expected to offer new and exciting experiences for guests.

Maiden Voyage

The Disney Wish is set to embark on its maiden voyage on July 14, 2022. As Disney’s newest cruise ship, it introduces a brand new design that draws inspiration from popular Disney intellectual properties such as Frozen, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars.

New and Exciting Experiences

The Disney Wish features 250 staterooms and 10 themed restaurants, providing immersive spaces and exciting dining options. One of the standout attractions is the AquaMouse, a full-fledged water park attraction suspended above the upper deck. With 250 feet of slides, it is sure to provide endless fun for guests of all ages.

Disney Cruise ships offer a magical and unforgettable experience for guests of all ages. From the first-class accommodations and diverse dining options to the top-notch entertainment and family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you choose the Disney Wonder, Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream, or plan to embark on the maiden voyage of the Disney Wish, you are guaranteed to have an incredible time. Book your Disney Cruise today and embark on a memorable adventure at sea!

Have you been on a Disney Cruise before? If so, which ship were you a passenger on and what was your overall experience like?

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If you’ve been holding off on booking a cruise for the past few years due to the ongoing pandemic, now is the time to consider it again. As long as you are fully vaccinated and take the necessary precautions, you and your family can once again enjoy a safe and enjoyable cruise vacation on the open seas.

If you’re thinking about treating yourself and your family to a Disney cruise ship this summer, you might be wondering which one is the best. As you know, anything that Disney touches is filled with that signature high-quality Disney magic, and their cruise ships are no exception.

In this video, we will rank the best Disney Cruise ships from best to worst. Currently, there are four Disney cruise ships at sea, with another four being built and set to hit the open seas in the next few years. Disney’s newest cruise ship, Disney Wish, is expected to have its maiden voyage on July 14, 2022.

While companies like Carnival and Royal Caribbean provide incredible experiences for their guests, there is something truly special and magical about how the Mouse House operates its cruise line. If you enjoy visiting Disney parks and resorts, you will undoubtedly have a fantastic time on one of their ships. Watch this video to find out which one we believe takes the number 1 spot and why.

Best Disney Cruise Ships (RANKED)

Hi, I'm Mike, the author of Ocean Bliss Journeys. As the captain of this incredible website, my mission is to provide you with the ultimate sailing experience. Set sail on a journey of discovery with us and indulge in the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Our handpicked cruises offer unparalleled luxury and unforgettable destinations. From romantic getaways to family vacations and hidden gem exploration, I've carefully curated tailored packages to ensure every moment is cherished. So, join me and embark on your dream cruise today. Let's create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Disney's Newest Cruise Ship Is Its Best Ever — Here's Why

Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Wish, sets sail on its maiden voyage this month, and we took it for a test cruise.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Disney Cruise Line 's newest ship is different — and that's why we love it. The company was voted the best large-ship ocean cruise line in Travel + Leisure 's 2022 World's Best Awards , and the new Disney Wish is its best vessel yet.

The quintessentially Disney touches that make this cruise line so popular — appearances from Mickey and pals, a deck party with fireworks, themed dining and spaces for all ages, and attentive service from every cast member — are all there. But the Disney Wish elevates the Disney Cruise Line experience with a balance of sophistication and whimsy.

When speaking with Imagineers and Disney Cruise Line leaders on board, they explained the ship's motif of enchantment — a concept integral to many classic Disney films — found in the staterooms, restaurants, recreation areas, and castle-like Grand Hall, the first place guests encounter when boarding on embarkation day.

Walking on board the Disney Wish and entering the Grand Hall feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The large, atrium-like space features soaring columns that lead up to a constellation-speckled ceiling, with a chandelier reminiscent of Cinderella's ball gown at the center and a statue of the heroine herself at the bottom of the staircase. You might even spot a princess or prince waving from the balcony as you walk inside the bright and beautiful space. The tone for the cruise is set here, as you find yourself instantly immersed in the whimsical world of Disney storytelling in an upscale, modern setting that appeals to all ages.

And when we say there's something for guests of all ages, we mean it. With its newest ship, Disney has mastered the art of combining characters, film franchises, and experiences that kids, teens, young families, and even adults traveling without children will enjoy. From the adorable It's a Small World-themed nursery to the tween and teen-focused Edge and Vibe spaces, there are engaging spaces for children from six months to 17 years old. And Disney's Oceaneer Club, accessed by slide from the Grand Hall, includes Marvel, Star Wars , and princess-inspired areas, along with a Mickey playground and the Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, where kids can learn Imagineering secrets and participate in STEAM-infused activities.

As I walked through the space with Laura Cabo, portfolio creative executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, she pointed out each unique touch that makes the Oceaneer Club such a fun and immersive environment for children, down to tiny details that only a trained eye could spot.

That attention to detail is evident throughout the adults' spaces, too. Star Wars : Hyperspace Lounge is perhaps the most hotly anticipated bar on board the Disney Wish , with cocktails inspired by the planets that guests see through the viewport — when they're not blasting through hyperspace, that is.

Cocktail menus at Nightingale's, a piano bar with "Cinderella"-inspired touches, and The Bayou, a beautiful lounge with "The Princess and the Frog" influences, are delightful and diverse, with fun drinks featuring unique elements. In fact, throughout the ship, you'll find tasty, on-trend cocktails — think popsicle-infused spritzes, smoke bubble-topped libations, and sparkly drinks with edible glitter. And it's not all smoke and bubbles — Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by chef Arnaud Lallement offer fine dining for adults only, in a charming setting inspired by "Beauty and the Beast."

We had the chance to enjoy a meal from the esteemed three-Michelin-starred chef, and the tasting menu — starring some dishes you may find at his highly regarded restaurant in Champagne, France — was delicious, alongside a view of the limitless ocean right outside the panoramic windows. Untangled Salon, Hook's Barbery, Senses Spa, Senses Fitness center, and the adults-only deck and pool area offer more grown-up entertainment and relaxation, proving that a Disney cruise is just as fun for adults.

Family-friendly spaces throughout the ship boast a number of Disney firsts: AquaMouse, the first-ever Disney attraction at sea; Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, Disney's first Frozen -themed dining experience featuring singing, dancing, and an adorable Olaf; Worlds of Marvel, the first Marvel dining adventure; and a Broadway-style adaptation of "The Little Mermaid."

There's also the first-of-its-kind two-story Wish Tower Suite, located in the ship's forward funnel and themed to "Moana," with accommodations for up to eight guests. Plus, there are four beautiful Royal Suites and more concierge-level staterooms and suites. No matter the room type, though, guests will enjoy intelligently designed staterooms with fairy-tale touches — even the hallway carpets incorporate symbols from movies like "Tangled" and "Cinderella." And while cute and whimsical, these movie-inspired details aren't over-the-top; the rooms still feel modern, upscale, and bright.

Over the last two years, travel has been challenging, and in many ways, a cruise on the Disney Wish feels like a reprieve from the stress of family vacation planning. I love researching and planning trips, but there's something so relaxing about stepping onto a ship and knowing that everything will be taken care of, from meal planning to child care. And the Disney Wish — with its Michelin-worthy cuisine, beautiful suites, high-caliber entertainment, and fantastical touches — feels like a high-end experience.

The Disney Wish sets sail on its maiden voyage on July 14, 2022, offering three- and four-night itineraries from Port Canaveral to Nassau and Castaway Cay — Disney's private island — in the Bahamas . The ship is the first of three new vessels to be built through 2025 at the Meyer Werft shipyard. We don't have details on these ships yet, but with the Wish sailing the high seas, Disney Cruise Line's future looks pretty magical.

Cruise Lines Ranked From Worst to Best

Looking to make your next adventure a seafaring one? Or maybe you want an all-inclusive vacation that doesn’t require a ton of planning? We have the skinny on the world’s best and worst cruise line operators.

Generally speaking, if you’re booking a cruise, you’ll fall into one of three categories: mainstream, premium or luxury. Mainstream cruises come in all types, but they are generally the most affordable. Premium lines tend to be more laid-back and thus attract an older clientele. The food and cabins are far better on these boats, but you’ll pay more for the privilege — and the serenity. Lastly, luxury cruises will run over $400 a night, but you’ll see and feel the difference. The food will be some of the best you’ve ever had and the room may be larger than your own home.

With all this in mind, check out how each of the best-known cruise lines rank before booking your next voyage.

19. Costa Cruises

Rating: 3.2 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 18 ships Top departure points: Barcelona, Venice (Italy), Savona/Genoa (Italy), Pointe-A-Pitre (Guadeloupe), Singapore Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe, transatlantic Starting price: $119/night

Note: The rating information was sourced from Cruiseline's pre-pandemic numbers; however, we've excluded any cruise lines that have since shuttered.

Bottom Line: Costa Cruises

It’s hard to forget the 2012 disaster involving a Costa Concordia that killed 32 people and left a capsized boat bobbing off the coast of Italy for over a year. Even without that accident, Costa doesn’t have the best reputation.

It mostly caters to Europeans looking to party hard at a good price. But families will find the kids' areas to their liking, including the children-sail-free promotions. Folks looking for peace and quiet best avoid these boats, and the tobacco averse among us be warned: Every bar has a designated smoking section.

Costa is known for its fun entertainment options and it was the first cruise line to offer spa cabins. 

What Customers Say About Costa Cruises

Overall rating: 3.3 Cruise: 7 Night Blue Is The Color (Rome roundtrip) Date: November 2017 Ship: Costa Pacifica Cabin type: Oceanview Traveled as: Large group

“[Whirlwind] tour of a lifetime. The ports and excursions were well worth the trip, though I would not sail this particular cruise line again. I recommend taking time after the excursion, which are usually only 4 hours or so, and touring the cities on your own to get away from the commercial aspects.” — amnayo

18. MSC Cruises

Rating: 3.3 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 19 Top departure points: Miami, Barcelona, Rio De Janeiro, Genoa (Italy), Civitavecchia (Italy) Top destinations: Transatlantic, Europe (northern, western and Mediterranean), Asia, Africa, Middle East, South America Starting price: $69/night

Bottom Line: MSC Cruises

No matter where you sail with MSC, which is based in Italy, it will have 50 to 85 percent European passengers. Regardless of nationality, folks who pick this operator are looking for a budget cruise for the whole family, as kids 3-11 are free and 12- to 17-year-olds board at reduced prices.

Passengers book "experiences," which are much different than U.S.-based cruise operators. These determine what type of cabin you occupy and any extra perks.

The ships are nice and the newest in the industry, but there is a lot more permitted smoking aboard the European cruises than those based in the U.S. Don’t expect amazing food or a party atmosphere. 

What Customers Say About MSC Cruises

Overall rating: 2.6 Cruise: 9 Night Mediterranean (Barcelona roundtrip) Date: October 2018 Ship: MSC Preziosa Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“We were surprised at the number of senior citizens. Unclear if it was the ship, the itinerary or the time of trip, but after 4 MSC cruises, this was the first where it felt like a retirement home." — evieward

17. Norwegian Cruise Line

Rating: 3.5 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 17 Top departure points: Miami, New York City, Seattle, Port Canaveral (Florida), Civitavecchia (Italy) Top destinations: Caribbean, Alaska (inside passage), Europe (Mediterranean) Starting price: $146/night

Bottom Line: Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian is best known for the quality and creativity of its food, and it was the first cruiser to offer flexible dining options. The upscale suites are more akin to a luxury hotel than a ship cabin, with a private sundeck and restaurant. And there’s plenty for the kids, like Nickelodeon-themed breakfasts and Cirque du Soleil-inspired entertainment.

Parents will enjoy the Broadway-caliber performances and comedy. Some ships also feature a water park and sports decks that include a bungee trampoline, spider web climbing frame, multiple corkscrew water slides and a ropes course.

Drawbacks include small cabins with tight bathrooms and extra charges for the best food options. 

What Customers Say About Norwegian Cruise Lines

Overall rating: 3.9 Cruise: 7 Night Southern Caribbean (San Juan roundtrip) Date: December 2019 Ship: Norwegian Epic Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Singles/friends

“I have cruised NCL many times, but it may be my last. I am still not happy they changed the itinerary after I booked the cruise, and the overall attention to guest satisfaction has gone way down. Unless you have to financially, DO NOT take advantage of the airfare option. They had me fly from Seattle to Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta and then to Puerto Rico. Many other guests I spoke with had a similar experience. Also, seriously look for other options/companies that offer shore excursions than NCL. They were my favorite.” — Wisest1

16. Carnival Cruise Lines

Rating: 3.7 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 23 ships Top departure points: Miami, Galveston (Texas), Port Canaveral (Florida), Fort Lauderdale, (Florida) New York City Top destinations: Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico Starting price: $124/night

Bottom Line: Carnival Cruise Lines

The jester of the mainstream cruise lines, Carnival has a reputation for its boisterous boats. These cruises are popular with party animals and singles — especially if those folks enjoy hairy chest contests, endless buckets of beer bottles (these cost extra, FYI), late-night comedy and food endorsed by Guy Fieri.

Children are, of course, welcome as well. To that end, Carnival hosts Dr. Seuss-themed brunches and story hours for the youngsters, or the kid in all of us.

There are few quiet spaces on Carnival boats, with music, loud and colorful decor, and regrettable adult decision-making ruling the roost. 

What Customers Say About Carnival Cruise Lines

Overall rating: 3.8 Cruise: 4 Night Western Caribbean (Miami roundtrip) Date: January 2020 Ship: Carnival Victory Cabin type: Suite Traveled as: Family (older children)

“We had fun on a four-day getaway for a reasonable cost. Ship was clean and food was delicious. I will take a newer Carnival if I go on a longer cruise. The ocean suites are worth the cost.” — bonnycorn

15. Princess Cruises

Rating: 3.8 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 21 Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Yokohama (Japan), Southampton (England), Sydney (Australia), Vancouver (Canada) Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, transatlantic, South Pacific, Europe (Mediterranean) Starting price: $89/night

Bottom Line: Princess Cruises

Princess offers quality at an affordable price. Families and couples are drawn to the shorter cruises while longer ones tend to attract retirees and empty-nesters. Educational classes are included, for adults and kids — and there’s even yoga for children. Couples can get married on board in a chapel.

Food is solid, and there are no restrictions on mealtimes. Unfortunately, childcare is lacking for kids 3 and under. And for an extra charge, folks can enter a lottery for behind-the-scenes ship tours.

This is not a cruise line for singles and hard partiers. 

What Customers Say About Princess Cruises

Overall rating: 4.6 Cruise: 17 Night Roman Passage (Rome to Fort Lauderdale) Date: December 2018 Ship: Pacific Princess Cabin type: Suite Traveled as: Couple

“This cruise was a wonderful experience for both my wife and me. We especially enjoy the ‘days at sea,’ and the transatlantic aspect included eight consecutive days at sea crossing the Atlantic Ocean. There is nothing like sitting on your balcony and seeing nothing but ocean waters all around you. It gives you a perspective on the world and the universe around you.” — draronson

14. Royal Caribbean

Rating: 3.9 Class: Mainstream Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Miami, Sydney (Australia), Cape Liberty (New Jersey), Shanghai (China) Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Caribbean, South Pacific Starting price: $154/night

Bottom Line: Royal Caribbean

Families looking for a great experience at a good cost — essentially an alternative to Disney — want to book with Royal Caribbean . And outdoors, sporty folks will love the adrenaline-rush activities at sea. Think rock climbing, surfing simulations, ice skating, ziplining, skating and even boxing.

Entertainment options include Broadway-caliber performances as well as ice skating, dive shows and original productions. If you’re antisocial or looking for quiet relaxation, this is not your boat. 

What Customers Say About Royal Caribbean

Overall rating: 3.5 Cruise: 7 Night Western Caribbean (Miami roundtrip) Date: January 2020 Ship: Oasis of the Seas Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as : Couple

“Please serve sweetened ice tea. Sugar does not melt easily in cold tea. The main dining room needs an efficiency review because it's much too slow. Servers very often carry one little item, disappear for long periods and are inefficient! They are well-meaning and pleasant but need a manager with good organizational and efficiency skills to make it work smoothly.” — pacificanelia

13. Holland America Line

Rating: 3.9 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 15 Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Amsterdam (Netherlands), San Diego, Venice (Italy), Vancouver (Canada) Top destinations: Europe (northern and Mediterranean), transatlantic, Asia, Africa, Middle East, Panama Canal Starting price: $79/night

Bottom Line: Holland America Line

If you’re looking to spend the majority (or all) of your time on board, entertained day and night with a thumping party atmosphere, then steer far clear of Holland America. These cruises are for multigenerational families and folks who want to explore the various port stops for more than an hour.

Holland America curates special itineraries like an after-hours tour of St. Petersburg’s State Hermitage Museum. The lounge/bar areas are low-key and upscale, and the libraries are New York Times-themed. There are a blues club and solid restaurant options.

Deck dining leaves much to be desired, and the lack of robust entertainment options might weigh on younger kids and teenagers. 

What Customers Say About Holland America Line

Overall rating: 4.0 Cruise: 7 Night Alaskan Inside Passage (Vancouver roundtrip) Date: September 2019 Ship: Noordam Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“Except for our experience with you medical personnel and the embarkation process, it was a good cruise.” — bocathill

12. Silversea Cruises

Rating: 3.9 Class: Luxury Fleet: 13 Top departure points: Barcelona, Piraeus (Greece), Venice (Italy), Ushuaia, Tierra Del Fuego (Argentina), Fort Lauderdale (Florida) Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe (northern, western, eastern and Mediterranean) Starting price: $2,970

Bottom Line: Silversea Cruises

Older couples who like a formal atmosphere and attentive service flock to these boats. It helps that fares include gratuities, wine, and top-shelf champagne and spirits. But there are also smaller indulgences like Bulgari toiletries and Pratesi linens that keep guests coming back.

The restaurants are exceptional, and multi-course dinners can be served in your cabin, which is more than likely a suite since most of the fleet only has this type of accommodation.

Laid-back folks might find the vibe too stuffy, and families want to avoid these journeys at all costs. Children have little to do among such refinement. 

What Customers Say About Silversea Cruises

Overall rating: 3.7 Cruise: 7 Night Alaska (Seward to Vancouver) Date: June 2018 Ship: Silver Shadow Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“Have sailed twice on Princess — you can get a penthouse suite on Princess and get just as good of service and twice as much room and regular unlimited food. Silver Shadow has great personal service, but at the penthouse level on other ships, you get the same for far less money. I would recommend Silver Shadow only to someone willing to pay a high price to be alone on a ship.” — traveldan

Rating: 4.0 Class: Premium Fleet: 3 Top departure points: Southampton (England), Sydney (Australia), New York City, Tokyo, Melbourne (Australia) Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, South Pacific, transatlantic, Europe (western, northern) Starting price: $299/night

Bottom Line: Cunard

Board a Cunard ship for its sophisticated atmosphere and top-notch activity slate, complete with quality lectures and classes and theater-screened movies. The Queen Mary 2 features a planetarium for those dark, starry nights at sea. British touches include traditional afternoon tea and plenty of fish and chips at the pub.

Passengers skew older, more in the retiree realm, but summer attracts families who want upscale at a good price. And if parents do travel with toddlers, they can have dinner out with Cunard’s night nursery service.

Some sections are closed off to lower-paying guests, and the nightlife is almost nonexistent.

What Customers Say About Cunard

Overall rating: 4.1 Cruise: 7 Night Transatlantic Eastbound (New York to Southampton) Date: September 2019 Ship: Queen Mary 2 Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Singles/friends

“The best, of course, was a beautiful open ocean to stare at for days. It is a great crossing for an older crowd. Some of the activities were a bit corny. The food quality was like a very good wedding. Don't be afraid to request or mix ingredients of the entrees.” — jjcohen31

10. Celebrity Cruises

Rating: 4.0 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 15 ships Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Sydney (Australia), Southampton (England), Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Italy) Top destinations: South Pacific, Asia, Africa, Middle East, transatlantic, Europe (Mediterranean), western Caribbean Starting price: $162/night

Bottom Line: Celebrity Cruises

Cruisers looking for style and substance without breaking the bank hop aboard Celebrity boats. Their floating cities feature actual patches of grass and world-renowned art collections, along with innovative dining options, educational classes and playful activities like water volleyball with ship personnel.

Nighttime entertainment might be a comedy burlesque show or a few top-shelf bourbons at any of the several swanky nightclubs. Or relax in the spa, take a steam or just call the concierge and have it all brought to your cabin. There are even babysitting options for families.

Drawbacks include tons of extra charges for things like the specialty restaurants and the stage shows that don’t measure up to the competition.

What Customers Say About Celebrity Cruises

Overall rating: 4.2 Cruise: 8 Night Norwegian Fjords (Dublin roundtrip) Date: May 2019 Ship: Celebrity Reflection Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“The trip was very enjoyable. The service was very good, the ports were good, the entertainment was good except for Clare Maiden, and the food was very good. However, compared with the food and entertainment we had on our cruise aboard the Celebrity Millennium in December, which was outstanding, this cruise was OK.” — inwechter26

9. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Rating: 4.1 Class: Luxury Fleet: 5 Top departure points: Miami, Barcelona, Venice (Italy), Civitavecchia (Italy), Vancouver (Canada) Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe (Mediterranean, northern), Caribbean, Alaska Starting price: $2,899/night

Bottom Line: Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For those willing to spend, a trip aboard Regent comes with everything included in the price. And by everything, that means roundtrip airfare, alcohol and gratuities, curated shore excursions at every stop and a pre-cruise night in a hotel. Couples and singles love these cruises, but families not so much.

Wi-Fi is only included in the upper tiers of cabin accommodations, but free throughout common spaces. And while the boats are spacious and never feel crowded, that can sometimes be a negative, as you might feel like the only person who showed up for the party that night. 

What Customers Say About Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Overall rating: 4.6 Cruise: 10 Night Flamenco Flourish (Monte Carlo to Barcelona) Date: May 2019 Ship: Seven Seas Voyager Cabin type: Suite Traveled as: Couple

“Everything on board the ship was EXQUISITE! Unfortunately, we felt so cheated by the poor tours that Regent had arranged. The tour guides were either disorganized or unable to communicate, and we just left feeling shortchanged. We've been on other cruises where the cruise ship company had arranged really enriching and wonderful excursions. Sadly, this is the only area Regent fell short. But the experience onboard did exceed all of our expectations.” — SunseekerChuck

8. Oceania Cruises

Rating: 4.1 Class: Premium Fleet: 6 Top departure points: Barcelona, Miami, Southampton (England), Civitavecchia (Italy), Venice (Italy) Top destinations: Europe (northern, western and Mediterranean), Asia, Africa, Middle East Starting price: $999/night

Bottom Line: Oceania Cruises

It’s hard to beat the dining options aboard Oceania ships, with a bistro from venerable French chef Jacques Pepin, a highly rated Pan-Asian restaurant and the all-inclusive packages. Before or after a meal, check out the star-studded art collection with names like Picasso, Miró and Hirst.

These journeys are aimed at couples looking for upscale travel and amazing food and wine experiences with a healthy dose of culture. It might not be the best family experience unless your children are extremely precocious and want Mommy and Daddy to have a memorable experience.

Try to book the newer Riviera or Marina, as some of the older ships lack the pizzazz and amenities of these two. 

What Customers Say About Oceania Cruises

Overall rating: 4.5 Cruise: 18 Night Sunny Islands and Andes (Santiago to Miami) Date: January 2020 Ship: Marina Cabin type: Suite Traveled as: Couple

“Our first cruise with Oceania. Exceptional food. We loved that so much was included — specialty dining (which was like eating in 5-star restaurants) didn't cost extra, bottled water was handed out at every port, espresso drinks and pastries were always available, laundry was included (and if you wanted to do it yourself, it was free). The hands-on cooking classes were fantastic. The lectures were interesting. Afternoon tea with a string quartet was a nice touch. They were serious about keeping us healthy with hand washing and plastic wrap around buffets. We went to ports where norovirus is endemic, and to their great credit, no one got sick. Great service, and always with a smile.” — elenaprior

7. Seabourn

Rating: 4.2 Class: Luxury Fleet: 9 Top departure points: Piraeus (Greece), Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Italy), Singapore, Miami Top destinations: Europe (Mediterranean, western, northern), Asia, Africa, Middle East Starting price: $2,499/night

Bottom Line: Seabourn

Seabourn takes guests to amazing ports, but they truly shine in the onboard experience.

Several of their ships have all-suite accommodations, and some of those are spa suites unmatched by any other ocean liner. Cruises usually come with a Marina Day in which the crew offers a variety of aquatic activities and a saltwater pool.

Folks looking for a formal cruise experience might be turned off by Seabourn’s casual luxury. But those looking for an upscale experience and port stops where few others go, this is your bag.

Just leave the kids behind, as these journeys are designed for adults.

What Customers Say About Seabourn

Overall rating: 4.6 Cruise: 7 Night Greek and Italian Jewels (Athens to Rome) Date: October 2018 Ship: Seabourn Odyssey Cabin type: Suite Traveled as: Couple

“We had an incredible time on the cruise! This is certainly the type of cruise for people who like a quieter, calmer ship. We really loved the destinations, tours and FOOD! The food on board was incredible! As well as the accommodations in the room and the service. The staff was so friendly, warm and responsive!” — JCraigfeld

6. Paul Gauguin Cruises

Rating: 4.2 Class: Premium Fleet: 2 Top departure points: Papeete (Tahiti), Lautoka (Fiji Islands) Top destinations: South Pacific Starting price: $3,145/night

Bottom Line: Paul Gauguin Cruises

Even if this cruise isn’t memorable for you, it will be for your accountant.

It would be hard not to enjoy all the bang for your buck, which includes all-inclusive fares that cover some wine and spirits and all onboard gratuities. They also offer roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles, a cabin with an ocean view and likely a balcony (70 percent have them), incredible food options in a Parisian-Polynesian fusion theme, and a swim and snorkel session at Paul Gaugin’s private French Polynesian island.

This tiny fleet isn’t great for singles or families, but couples seeking a yacht-like jaunt through the South Pacific will be well rewarded.

What Customers Say About Paul Gauguin Cruises

Overall rating: 5.0  Cruise: 7 Night Tahiti and The Society Islands (Papeete roundtrip)  Date: February 2017 Ship: Paul Gauguin Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Singles/friends

“The stateroom was very comfortable, the service was excellent and the excursions were awesome. We swam with rays and sharks in the Lagoonairium in Moorea. We didn't book this through the ship, but we learned about it on Tripadvisor. We saved a lot on the taxi (we used Teva Taxi) and were treated to a very good tour of the island on the way there and back. We rented a waverunner for 3 hours in Bora Bora. Fantastic!” — cruiseconverts

5. Azamara Club Cruises

Rating: 4.2 Class: Premium Fleet : 3 ships Top departure points: Piraeus (Greece), Barcelona, Venice (Italy), Southampton (England), Civitavecchia (Italy) Top destinations:  Caribbean, Central and South America, South Pacific, Africa, Europe (northern, western and Meditterranean) Starting price: $580/night

Bottom Line: Azamara Club Cruises

Azamara excels at its branded and abundant shore excursions in places like the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Although the decor is dated and stodgy, the pool and hot tub area is small and the cabin bathrooms are tight, you’ll be easily enticed off the ship by nighttime entertainment options in port.

Azamara offers up to 17-day travel for serious adventurers, hitting numerous stops in its 240 ports spread across 66 countries. House alcohol and gratuities are included with the high daily cost, and the spacious and lightly crowded ships make cruising ideal.

Best to leave the kids and older family members onshore for this ride.

What Customers Say About Azamara Club Cruises

Overall rating: 4.6 Cruise: 9 Night Cuba Intensive (Miami roundtrip) Date: February 2019 Ship: Azamara Journey Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“Excellent cruise to three Cuban ports: outstanding music/dance performances and opportunity to soak up the color and flavors of Cuba.” — artistjuge

4. Viking Ocean Cruises

Rating: 4.3 Class: Premium Fleet : 7 Top departure points: Bergen (Norway), Piraeus (Greece), Civitavecchia (Italy), Barcelona, Venice (Italy) Top destinations: Europe (northern, eastern and Mediterranean), Asia, Africa, Middle East, transatlantic Starting price: $1,999/night

Bottom Line: Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking is only a few years into its expansion from river cruises to the high seas, but it didn’t take long for people to notice the luxury aboard these ships and itineraries that put a premium on destinations — some lasting for as many as six months.

All cabins have their own private veranda, and the fare includes one complimentary shore excursion at each stop.

These trips are designed for couples and adults who want a refined experience that could last for several weeks to a few months, and for this reason, there is no programming aboard for children.  

What Customers Say About Viking Ocean Cruises

Overall rating: 5.0 Cruise: Catalonia to Constantinople - Barcelona to Athens Date: March 2016 Ship: Viking Star Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“Viking meticulously managed every aspect of a wonderful trip. All features of the ship and its operation were perfect. A wide option of onshore activities was offered at each port and guided by local professional and highly experienced guides. The Viking staff and crew were extremely friendly and thorough in carrying out their duties to the ship and its guests. We were extremely impressed with the constant effort to make our trip comfortable and enjoyable. Dining and menu options provided for every need and appetite from a wide-offering buffet setting to fine dining in a non-formal setting.” — JETEX

3. Windstar Cruises

Rating: 4.3 Class: Premium Fleet: 6 Top departure points: Athens (Greece), Lisbon (Portugal), Barcelona, San Juan (Puerto Rico) Top destinations: Europe (northern, Mediterranean), Caribbean, transatlantic Starting price: $999/night

Bottom Line: Windstar Cruises

True to its name, Windstar attempts to recreate the experience of sailing while aboard a massive cruise liner (it looks cool, though). Families with teenage children or well-behaved youngsters will find much to love on the decks of Windstar’s recently renovated fleet. Ships sport retractable marinas for water skiing, sailing, kayaking and snorkeling.

The overall experience skews casual in atmosphere and dress, but there isn’t much to keep younger and more active children entertained. Food is well prepared, but alcoholic beverages are not included with the daily fare and cabins don’t have Wi-Fi.

Older ships are also showing their age.

What Customers Say About Windstar Cruises

Overall rating: 3.5 Cruise: 14 Night Ocean Crossings (Saint Maarten to Lisbon) Date: April 2019 Ship: Wind Surf Cabin type: Oceanview Traveled as: Couple

“A little long with only one port of call. Would I repeat this trip? No. Can I recommend the cruise line? Yes. This is a quiet environment with no bingo tournaments and excessive drinking. Customers are older, above 55 and reasonable.” — gerhardrauh

2. Disney Cruise Line

Rating: 4.4 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 4 ships Top departure points: Port Canaveral (Florida), San Diego, Miami, Galveston (Texas), Dover (England) Top destinations: Caribbean, Mexico, Northern Europe Starting price: $672/night

Bottom Line: Disney Cruise Line

Disney is the ultimate cruise line for families. There is no reason to book this expensive option unless you’re bringing the kids, as it is entirely geared toward their enjoyment with some of the best stage shows in the business.

It’s also pricey for its class, but there’s a good reason for that. Entertainment options for kids abound, day and night, and Disney is the top cruise operator for amenities geared toward babies and toddlers, like drop-off childcare and diapers in the gift shop.

Adults have plenty to do themselves, like soak up the sun poolside or traipse around the private island. One thing adults cannot do aboard these ships is gamble, which Disney has forbidden in the name of a family-centric atmosphere.

What Customers Say About Disney Cruise Line

Overall rating: 4.6 Cruise: 5 Night Western Caribbean (Miami roundtrip) Date: April 2019 Ship: Disney Magic Cabin type: Inside Traveled as: Family (young children)

“The value is worth the money! Castaway Cay and the musical shows on board (Twice Charmed and Rapunzel Before Ever After) are must watch!” — DCL2019

1. Hurtigruten Cruises

Rating: 4.7 Class: Premium Fleet: 18 Top departure points: Bergen (Norway), Kirkenes (Norway), Reykjavik (Iceland), Hamburg (Germany), Halifax (Nova Scotia) Top destinations: Europe (western, northern), Asia, Africa, Middle East, Canada, New England, New York, South America Starting price: $944/night

Bottom Line: Hurtigruten Cruises

Remote and mysterious best describe the trips offered by this Norwegian fleet. Hurtigruten ships take guests throughout Northern Europe and as far as the North Pole for memorable and breathtaking views of the Norwegian coast and Northern Lights.

These are bucket-list, once-in-a-lifetime journeys, and they don’t come cheap. The high-end cruiser is known for its beautifully designed boats, like the Art Deco-style MS Finnmarken with massive spaces both public and private, a rooftop lounge, library, terrific spa amenities and excellent cuisine.

What Customers Say About Hurtigruten Cruises

Overall rating: 5.0 Cruise: 6 Night Coastal Expeditions (Bergen to Kirkenes) Date: October 2017 Ship: MS Finnmarken Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“This is one of the few vacations we have been on where we started planning our return before the original trip was completed.” — TrophyClub1

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Best Disney Cruise Ships (RANKED)

The pandemic had a terrible effect on the cruise industry. For the better part of the last two years, the industry has struggled to stay afloat. But at this point, it’s looking like it’s possible once again to hop aboard a cruise liner and have a safe and enjoyable time as long as your fully-vaccinated and abide by CDC guidelines.

This summer, you and your family might be considering treating yourselves to a voyage on a Disney cruise ship. If so, you’re probably curious about which one is the best.

In this video, we’ll be ranking the best Disney Cruise ships from best to worst. Currently, there are four  Disney cruise ships at sea. Another four are being built and will hit the open seas in the next couple of years. One of these is set to embark on it’s maiden voyage this summer. We’ll address that towards the end of this video, so make sure you stick around to see what new features Disney’s latest cruise ship has to offer.

While companies like Carnival and Royal Caribbean are renowned for offering their guests incredible experiences, there’s something so special and magical about how the Mouse House runs their cruise line. If you enjoy visiting Disney parks and resorts, then you’ll have a blast on one of their ships. Keep watching to see which one we think takes the number 1 spot and why.

Disney Dream

Let’s go ahead and establish something. This is one video that was difficult to make because while we set out to rank the Disney Cruise ships from ‘worst to best’, there really isn’t a bad one in the Disney fleet. Each one of Disney’s four seafaring vessels is top-notch! That being said, Disney Dream takes our number four spot (although if we’re being honest, it’s pretty much tied with the next three ships we’ll be discussing)

Disney Dream was last renovated in 2015 after being introduced in 2011. This 4,000-passenger vessel is one of Disney’s biggest boats.

A few of this ship’s biggest highlights include its 765-foot “AquaDuck” water coaster, it’s theatrical stage and performances featuring fan-favorite Disney characters, and it’s virtual sports simulator.

Disney Dream empathizes family-friendly entertainment. There are five specialty kids clubs while adults can enjoy a little grownup time over at the adults-only Quiet Cave pool and the Senses spa.

Come nightfall, a section of the ship that they call The District comes alive with bustling bars and lounges. As far as dining goes, the ship offers nine themed restaurants, including two adults-only ones.

More than two-thirds of the ships cabins offer views of the ocean. Most cabins also include amenities like sofa beds which is perfect if you’re traveling with the whole family. If you’re looking for a little extra space, you can opt for Concierge suites which range from 600 to 1800 square feet.

A trip aboard Disney Dream is a bit more expensive than your average cruise ship, but the price is well worth it due to the personalized attention and service that you’ll receive from the courteous staff.

Before we tell you more about Disney’s best cruise ships, take a moment to show us a little support by giving this video a like and subscribing to the Viewcation channel.

Disney Fantasy

Setting sail out of Port Canaveral in Florida en route to the Bahamas, Disney Dream’s sister ship, Disney Fantasy, launched in 2012. Guest can either take a seven-night Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise.

The ship is rather large at a length of 1,148 feet and weighing in at nearly 130,000 tonnes. Like Disney Dream, it also has a max occupancy of 4,000 with a crew of more than 1,400.

In 2017, the ship was given a major overhaul introducing new features like a Star Wars-themed command post, Marvel Super Heroes Academy, and Tiffany and Company retail store.

Cabins are designed with family in mind. Staterooms are able to accommodate up to four guests, and like Disney Dream, 85 percent of cabins have views of the ocean or feature a veranda.

All cabins are equipped with flat-screen televisions, iPhone docking stations, and mini-fridges.

Family-friendly entertainment is plentiful. The Goofy Sports Deck activity area is sure to be a hit with your little ones, while the sports simulator and nightly stage performances and 3D films will please everyone in your party.

There are several youth clubs on offer for younger passengers and parents are given an adults-only Quiet Cave Pool to enjoy. There are also six adult bars and lounges that mom and dad are sure to appreciate.

As far as dining goes, there are 10-themed restaurants, including two exclusively for adult guests. On particularly hot days, voyagers can cool off at the Sweet on You ice cream parlor.

Disney Magic

Our second favorite Disney cruise ship si Disney Magic. This somewhat older vessel accommodates up to 2,400 guests. What we love about it most is the fact that it isn’t nearly as crowded as the previously mentioned ships. Not only are smaller ships less congested, but they are also easier to navigate.

One of our favorite entertainment attractions on Disney Magic is the Broadway-inspired stage show called Tangled the Musical. The show is absolutely phenomenal – especially if you’re already a Tangled fan.

After the show, the fun continues over at the Snuggling Duckling Bar, where guests can take part in games, listen to live music, have a delicious dinner, and enjoy a meet and greet with some of their favorite characters.

Like Dinsey Dream, Disney Magic has an AquaDuck water coaster. Thrillseekers stand with their arms and legs crossed on top of a platform that opens up and zooms them around the ship through a series of clear waterslides. The Aquaduck is very popular, so we recommend hitting it up early in the day to beat the lines.

For younger children, the ship has a splash pad. There are also three pools for guests of all ages. Unique to the vessel is the teens-only Chill Spa.

Like all of Disney’s cruise ships, Disney Fantasy has plenty of dining options suited for everyone in your crew. There are eight eateries, including two adults-only ones, as well as a buffet.

70 percent of cabins offer oceanic views or verandas. Suites include added amenities such as concierge service and extensive media libraries. Cabins also have flat-screen TVs, sitting areas, and separate showers and bathtubs.

Disney Magic sals out of Miami, Florida, New York City, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Sailings take guests to locations such as Bermuda, The Bahamas, Canada, the Caribbean, and even Europe.

Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder might be the oldest Disney cruise ship, but it’s also our favorite. Like Disney Magic, it’s not quite as large as it’s siblings, but that’s once again a huge plus in our book. The ship also seems to have more areas geared towards adult guests than the other cruise ships we’ve covered.

This 2,713 passenger ship debuted in 1999 but was recently updated in 2019, adding several entertainment options, including the French Quaker Lounge. So if you’re a fan of live music and New Orleans-inspired aesthetics, you’ll love this new addition.

There are numerous onboard activities to keep guests constantly entertained. Disney Wonder has ten family-focused areas, six youth clubs, and an impressive seven adults-only spaces.

Much like the other ships, while the young ones are having a blast, adults can unwind over at the adults-only Quiet Space Pool.

In terms of dining options, Disney Wonder has six themed options, including one adults-only restaurant perfect for date night. That might not seem quite as impressive as the other ships, but the quality of each dining space and the food offered seems to be higher, and you end up receiving better service.

Staterooms can accommodate up to four guests, while suites sleep up to seven passengers. Pricing is a bit on the steep side, but you get what you pay for. Compared to the other cruises we’ve been on, Disney Wonder has provided the best overall experience in terms of service, accommodations, and dining.

Our favorite entertainment experience offered onboard Disney Wonder has to be Frozen: A Musical Experience. The show is every bit as good as something that you would see on Broadway. What really blew us away was when it literally started snowing in the theater. Where else can you experience real snow out at sea? 

Setting Sail In Summer 2022: Disney Wish

Since this ship’s construction was just completed and arrived in port in Cape Canaveral in June 2022, we have yet to experience it. It’s maiden voyage is going to begin on July 14, 2022.

This new ship introduces a brand-new design unlike anything else in Disney’s cruise ship arsenal. The ships theming is said to draw from Disney intellectual properties such as Frozen, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars.

Disney Wish has 1,250 staterooms, ten themed restaurants, immersive spaces featuring beloved characters, plus the AquaMouse – a full-fledged waterpark attraction that is said to be the first of it’s kind at sea. It features 250 feet of slides suspended above the upper deck.

Disney is expected to launch four more cruise ships in the next couple of years, so this list is subject to change as more vessels hit the open seas. But ultimately, it doesn’t matter which Disney Cruise ship you choose. Everything that Disney touches is known to be of the absolute highest quality. While Disney Cruises aren’t exactly cheap, they are sure to create lasting memories that you and your family will cherish for years to come.

What do you think about our ranking? Do you think we dropped the ball or do you agree with our list? Let us know in the comments.

Before you go, take a moment to show us a little support by giving this video a like and subscribing to the Viewcation channel. Tap the bell to turn on notifications. That way, you can keep up with all of our latest and upcoming videos as soon as they drop.

As always, thanks for watching, and Happy Travels.

Which is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

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If you are thinking of sailing on a Disney cruise you may be asking which is the best Disney cruise ship?

There are four Disney cruise ships at sea right now – with another three being built.

However, is one Disney cruise ship better than the others? How do you compare Disney cruise ships?

Which Is The Best Disney Cruise Ship?

First, let’s take a look at the different Disney cruise ships.

The Classic Disney Cruise Ships

The Disney Magic was the first ship to be launched in 1998. The Magic’s sister ship, the Disney Wonder was launched a year later in 1999.

The two “classic Disney ships” are basically the same design. The Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder are the smallest cruise ships in the fleet.

Huge List of Disney Cruise Tips

The Disney Dream Class Ships

The newest Disney cruise ships are 40% larger than the Disney classic ships. The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are 1,147 feet long. They can carry a maximum of 4,000 passengers at full capacity and have 1458 crew members.

These are known as the Disney Dream Class Ships.

To put this in perspective it is often quoted that these ships are longer (or taller) than the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

The Disney Dream was launched in 2011 and the Disney Fantasy followed in 2012.

Disney Triton Class Ships

There are 3 more Disney ships on the horizon. The Disney Wish is due to be launched in 2022. The next two ships don’t yet have scheduled launch dates.

These are known as the Triton Class ships.

We now know some things about the new Disney Wish. You can follow the Disney Wish Construction with us. WE constantly update all the information about the details of the new Disney Ship as they are announced.

The Disney Fantasy-class ships are 130,000 gross tons and the new ships will be 140,000.

However, we know that the new Disney ships will only have the same amount of staterooms at 1,250 as the Fantasy and Dream. Therefore it seems that there will be more room for the entertainment spaces on the Triton Class ships.

We would guess that the majority will be balcony staterooms on the new Disney cruise ships.

It’s a pretty good bet that the new Disney ships will have the virtual portholes in the inside staterooms as well. Another highly likely feature of the new Disney cruise ships is that there will be an expanded concierge class.

Disney Cruise Ship Staterooms To Avoid

Photo by Disney – Artist Concept

This is a very exciting time for Disney cruise lines. Not only will there soon be 3 new ships, but there will also be a brand new Disney private island location.

Will the new ships be the best Disney cruise ships? Anything which we say now will of course just be speculation. However, we are sure that the new Disney cruise ships will be amazing!

If you want to know more about the new Disney cruise ships we have all the information you need here .

What is the Difference Between the Classic and the Newer Disney Dream Ships?

The really obvious answer to this is their size. There is a lot of difference if you compare the Disney Cruise Ships.

If you want a smaller Disney cruise ship which is easier to get around and also to get to know, you will be happier on the classic ships.

If you want more facilities and don’t mind the fact that there are more people, the newer Disney ships are the best.

However, it really isn’t that simple. There are many other things to consider when you ask yourself which is the best Disney cruise ship.

What is Basically the Same About All of the Disney Ships?

Before going into what is different about each of the Disney cruise ships, let’s think about what really is the same.

The level of service is exceptional on all of the Disney ships. It is always very difficult to explain just how above and beyond most of the Disney crew go to give exceptional service to their guests.

You have to experience the Disney difference to believe it. I have witnessed this first hand so many times. The Cast Members go the extra mile and welcome you like family.

Most recently I was on the Disney Wonder and was in Triton’s, one of the main rotational dining restaurants, having lunch.

I heard a shout of pure joy as a server recognized a family from a previous cruise. She ran over and greeted that family as if they were long-lost cousins.

That’s the Disney difference that you just can’t explain unless you see it. That kind of experience is genuine and is what Disney is all about.

There are other things that are just the same on all of the Disney ships. The large staterooms, most of which have the split bath. The excellent children’s programs. The adult spaces. The Disney rotational dining . Broadway-quality entertainment.

However, there are very distinct differences between each ship. Which Disney cruise ship that you think is the best for you and your family, will depend on other factors.

If you have children of a certain age you will want to look at our Best Disney Cruise Ship for Toddlers Guide. 

Let’s think about the things which are going to influence your choice of Disney cruise ship. When you are deciding which is the best Disney cruise ship you are going to look at a number of factors.

Disney Cruise Ship Itinerary

This really is going to be a big deciding factor when you look at which Disney cruise ship is the best for your vacation.

All of the Disney cruise ships sail very distinct itineraries from different home cruise ports.

If you want to sail the Caribbean on a Disney cruise ship you will find that the most convenient itineraries are on the Disney Fantasy. She sails mostly 7 night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries – all out of Port Canaveral Florida .

However, if you want a 3 or 4 night sailing on a Disney cruise then the Disney Dream is going to be your best choice. The Disney Dream sails mostly 3 and 4-night itineraries to The Bahamas from Port Canaveral Florida.

The Disney Dream can be an excellent first Disney cruise. The prices are obviously going to be lower than a full 7 night on the Disney Fantasy.

The Disney Dream also has a big advantage that all sailings will make a port stop a Disney’s private island Castaway Cay. For many Disney cruisers, the day at Castaway Cay is the highlight of their vacation. Here you can get a  complete guide to Disney’s Castaway Cay.

Both the Disney Wonder and the Disney Magic have more varied itineraries than the larger Disney ships. This might be the decider for you when you are thinking about which is the best Disney cruise ship. Itinerary may be the most important thing.

The Disney Wonder sails from Port Canaveral, Galveston, San Diego , and Vancouver. If you are looking for a more diverse itinerary then you really should consider the Disney Wonder.

One of the most spectacular of the Disney Wonder itineraries are the cruises to Alaska. Here you can browse the Disney Cruises to Alaska .

The Disney Wonder also sails through the Panama Canal twice a year. If we had to pick our very favorite Disney cruise it would be the Panama Canal cruises. Each cruise is for at least 14 nights, so is ideal for people who have more time to spare on a vacation.

There is nothing quite like the sight of the Disney Wonder sailing through the Panama Canal. The 14-night break gives you so much time to relax.

These cruises also tend to include extra features such as chances to look behind the scenes at the galley and the theater. There are usually not so many children on these cruises either.

The Disney Wonder now sails from San Diego on cruises to the Mexican Riviera. They range from 2,3,4,5 and 7-night cruises so there really is something for everyone. If you are based on the West Coast these Disney San Diego cruises are a great idea.

The Disney Wonder will sail from New Orleans for the first time in 2020.

The Disney Magic also has a number of different itineraries. You are sure to be able to find a Disney Magic sailing that suits you. In the summer months the Disney Magic sails in Europe.

These cruises vary from Southern European cruises from Barcelona to Northern European cruises as well as cruises around the British Isles from Dover England .

The Disney Magic has a Transatlantic sailing twice a year. This cruise offers great value for money for people with some flexibility and time to spend on this longer cruise.

The Disney Magic also has some sailings from New York and Miami. This is perfect for cruisers for whom Port Canaveral is not their first choice. Most of these cruises also have a port stop in Castaway Cay.

Disney Cruise Theme Sailings

Disney Cruise lines also offer a number of differently themed sailings.

One of the most popular is the Star Wars Days at Sea. If you are a Star Wars fan you really should think about booking one of the Star Wars special cruises.

For more details about what to expect you can see our guide here .

The Disney Magic has Marvel Days at Sea on select dates.

If Star Wars or Marvel is not your thing then you may want to enjoy one of the seasonal cruises such as the Halloween on the High Seas Cruises or a Very Merrytime Cruise.

Other Differences on The Disney Cruise Ships

Which is the best Disney cruise ship is always going to depend on so many factors which only you can answer. However, there are some other things which may help you make up your mind about which Disney cruise is best for you and your family.

Each Disney ship has different entertainment. All of the Disney cruise ships have amazing nighttime entertainment. However, all have different shows.

If your Disney Princess is a particular fan of Princess Anna and Queen Elsa then you may want to pick the Disney Wonder.

All the cruise ships will have personal appearances by the Anna and Elsa, but only Disney Wonder and Disney Fantasy (from Fall 2019) has Frozen, A Musical Spectacular.

The Disney Wonder also has Tiana’s restaurant.

If your favorite movie is Tangled then you may want to consider the Disney Magic. They are the only ship to have Tangled the Musical on board. The Disney Magic is also the only ship to have Rapunzel’s Royal Table restaurant.

If I had to choose a ship that has the best entertainment I would always say the Disney Wonder as it has Frozen and The Golden Mickeys.

I do also enjoy Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular on the Disney Fantasy. However, for me, the Disney Wonder wins on the stage show entertainment right now.

If you want to ride the AqauDuck then you have to sail on the newest ships of the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy. The classic Disney Wonder and Magic really do not have anything to compare with this.

The Disney Magic has the AquaDunk but this is not really a comparison. The Disney Wonder had a fabulous re-imagination recently but if you want an AquaDuck equivalent you just don’t get it here.

If the finest dining at sea is important to you then you need to choose the Disney Fantasy or the Disney Dream as they are the only ships to have Remy. This is one of the finest dining experiences at sea.

Palo is on all of the ships and is our preference, but if you want to experience what many think is the best of the best then you have to sail on one of the larger ships.

If you are thinking of booking Disney Cruise Concierge we would also say that the better choices are the newer ships of the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy.

The classic Disney Wonder and Magic ships have been re-imagined to accommodate a new concierge lounge. However, the Fantasy and Dream were purpose-built with concierge guests in mind. The Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream have a fabulous outside pool deck.

All the ships have the concierge lounge now but we think that the very best are on the Disney Dream and Fantasy. The only benefit of the Wonder and the Magic is that there are fewer concierge staterooms so it seems to be more of an exclusive benefit. You will get more individual attention, but it is pretty amazing on all the ships.

If you want an inside stateroom with the Virtual Porthole you do have to sail on the Disney Dream or the Fantasy.

Apparently, it was too much of a technological difficulty to refit the Magic and Wonder with the virtual portholes. We think they are a nice touch, but this really should be a minor reason to sail on the newer ships.

As you will see the answer to the question about which is the best Disney cruise ship really is going to vary according to what you and your family want.

We love all the Disney cruise ships, but if we had to decide we would say the Disney Wonder.

Is this because the Disney Wonder was our first Disney cruise and we have spent more time sailing on her than any other ships? Possibly. But you have to decide what is best for your family.

All of the Disney cruise ships offer an amazing experience which really doesn’t have any comparison.

Our advice? Look at the itinerary first and then choose the ship. Whichever of the Disney ships you choose you will have an amazing time. There really isn’t an answer as to which is the best Disney cruise ship. They are all amazing.

Whichever you sail on you will probably think is the best Disney cruise ship!

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Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

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Best Disney cruise ships for everyone — even Disney adults

Disney cruises are the stuff of magic, but they're also magically expensive. Before you shell out thousands per day on a vacation, you likely want to know: What's the best Disney ship for fans? What's the best Disney ship for adults? Which ship, if any, will work for me if I'm traveling by myself or with babies, kids or teens?

Disney Cruise Line is a brand that excels at providing both fun and luxurious experiences. With a fleet that has just three classes and five ships, Disney can focus on making sure that each vessel lives up to The Mouse's high standards for many types of cruisers. In other words, whichever vessel you choose, you'll likely have a great time.

However, there are subtle nuances that determine the best Disney ships for certain travelers. I'll help you figure out which Disney cruise ship is best so you can get the most out of a voyage in the happiest place on the high seas.

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

Disney Fantasy: Best Disney cruise ship for adults

Because the line excels at providing family-friendly and kid-focused amenities, when it comes to a Disney cruise, adults often wonder whether they would enjoy themselves if they were to sail. Fortunately, the answer is almost always yes — Disney cruise ships are great for adults .

Disney Cruise Line does the little things well. Travelers of all ages can enjoy character interactions and appreciate thoughtfully laid-out cabins.

If you're worried you'll be outnumbered by kids or elicit weird looks for sailing as a Disney adult, never fear. Bring your mouse ears, and prepare for some fun. Or, if you want, avoid the kitschy Disney stuff, and enjoy the terrific entertainment and superb food offerings mixed with stellar service.

All Disney ships have adults-only sun decks and pool areas that are closed to kids, as well as bars and clubs that are off-limits to anyone younger than 18.

With that in mind, one vessel stands out for the older set: Disney Fantasy.

The ship boasts a dozen bars, including three exclusive to the vessel. In addition to bars in the atrium, by the pool and sun deck, and in the theater, you'll also find the Europa area, which is only for adults after 9 p.m.

It's got five watering holes; among them are an Irish pub and a lounge that offers views of major European cities via LED screens that change every 15 minutes. But the standouts are French Champagne bar Ooh La La; La Piazza, which is carousel themed and gives off Italian vibes; and The Tube, a club with a London Underground theme that hosts trivia by day.

What's also great about the ship for adults is that it's a mid-sized vessel. It's big enough to offer plenty of activities but smaller than the new behemoth Disney Wish, which features grown-up areas that are spread out instead of conveniently clustered like they are on Disney Fantasy.

Finally, if you're an adult who's hoping to steer as clear of children as possible while still enjoying your own Disney experience, know that Disney Fantasy has a tremendous kids club. It features Andy's room from "Toy Story," as well as a Tinkerbell-themed play area and the Marvel Superhero Academy, where little ones can learn to fight crime. It's so impressive that kids likely won't want to leave, meaning fewer little ones will be running wild around the ship.

Disney Wish: Best Disney cruise ship for families

Disney cruises are, hands down, the best in the industry when it comes to sailings for families with children . From thoughtful cabin design that allows for more privacy and bathroom space to character interactions, free soda, complimentary first-run movie screenings and special menus in the restaurants, the brand understands and delivers on what appeals to the youngest cruisers.

Parents will love the line's infant and toddler babysitting offerings and little — but significant — touches like the availability of kid-size life jackets by the pools.

However, the true standout is the children's programming in the onboard youth centers. Disney's sizeable kids clubs are supervised and designed to include immersive experiences that tie in with Disney's franchises and characters. (Think "Toy Story," Marvel, "Star Wars" and more.)

The best Disney ship for families is Disney Wish ; it earns high marks whether you're traveling with babies, toddlers, school-age kids or teens.

Below, I'll explain why the line's newest, largest vessel is ideal.

Disney Wish: Best Disney cruise ship for kids

Disney Cruise Line's kids club, the Oceaneer Club (for ages 3-12), is cavernous. It has five separate sections on Disney Wish, including Mickey and Minnie's Captain's Deck and Fairytale Hall, which offer climbing structures and princess play for younger children. Kids will also be able to walk into a scene from "Star Wars" in Star Wars Cargo Bay, learn how to save the world at the Marvel Superhero Academy and participate in STEM projects at the Walt Disney Imagineering Lab.

The spaces are so fun that you're likely to see very little of your children during a sailing on Disney Wish. You might even be disappointed that you can't spend time there yourself.

The best part? It's all free, and there is dedicated youth staff that oversees each day's activities, as well as nighttime movie-watching and dance parties while parents enjoy some time out and about. Oh, and did I mention there's a slide that takes kids from the ship's stunning atrium down one deck to the entrance?

Outside the Oceaneer Club, kids will love Disney Wish's top-deck activities, which include mini-golf, an obstacle course, pools and waterslides. Don't miss the AquaMouse, a raft-based attraction with digital elements and see-through tubing.

The whole family can also enjoy Pirate Night, offered once per sailing. On the agenda are fireworks and appearances by Captain Jack Sparrow. Passengers are wholeheartedly encouraged to dress up.

Regarding dining, children will enjoy not only special kids' menus but also the themed, interactive atmosphere in two of the ship's three main dining rooms: Worlds of Marvel and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure . The former amuses passengers with Ant-Man's antics after he accidentally shrinks Disney Wish with a Quantum Core. The latter is an engagement celebration for Anna and Kristoff, featuring live characters.

Disney Wish: Best Disney cruise ship for teens and tweens

For teens and tweens, Disney Wish's dedicated lounges are the feature that's likely to be most enticing, offering a more relaxed "come and go" atmosphere that's supervised but less structured. Both clubs have areas for foosball and mocktails, and they offer a general meeting place for kids in the following age groups to find their friends and hang out.

Edge is the vessel's tween club, which offers video and board games and brightly colored decor for the 11- to 14-year-old set.

Vibe is the teen club for 14- to 17-year-olds. It's a slightly more muted space with giant TVs for movie watching and video game play, plus a high-top bar area for teens needing a place to plug in their laptops and tablets. A second room can be sealed off for use by 18- to 20-year-olds on voyages with enough young adults to warrant it.

And for older kids into "Star Wars," the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge is an immersive way to enjoy some themed fun in a more adult setting. The bar — open to all ages until 9 p.m., when it becomes an adults-only venue — takes visitors on a trip through the galaxy. A screen behind the bar changes every few minutes, with the room making noises and jumping to "hyperspace" to reach the next destination.

For anyone younger than the legal drinking age, the venue's menu offers some nonalcoholic options, including the Cloud City (oat milk with blue raspberry and ice cream) and the Temple Twist (apple, mint, pineapple, ginger beer and kiwi).

When they aren't busy lounging, teens might also enjoy Uncharted Adventure, a digital scavenger hunt that will take them around the ship to find interactive clues using their mobile phones. A bit of magic is involved, but it's the kind even a skeptical teenager might find interesting.

For more sporty fun, teens can check out the ship's waterslides or the indoor sports court, where they can play basketball or foosball.

Disney Wish: Best Disney cruise ship for babies and toddlers

Returning on Disney Wish is parent favorite It's a Small World Nursery. The expanded space caters to children from 6 months to 3 years old. It has a nap room with cribs, a changing area and an activity room with floormats, age-appropriate toys and a TV.

Dedicated counselors offer group babysitting in the nursery for the littlest cruisers on a first come, first served basis for $9 per hour for the first child and $8 per hour for any additional children in the same family. Counselors will feed and change, as necessary, any infants or toddlers in their care.

Disney Magic: Best Disney cruise ship for singles

Built in 1998, Disney Magic is the oldest vessel in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. That means it's also one of the least expensive, which is important if you're sailing alone and stuck paying a single supplement. (Disney ships do not have cabins for one.)

Additionally, it's one of the two smallest Disney Cruise Line ships. Its size creates a more intimate experience, particularly in the adult areas, where you can meet other cruisers traveling alone.

Disney Magic retains a nautical feel that's more mature than what you'll find on Disney Wish, which feels more like a mainstream megaship. However, Magic retains the "wow" factor, featuring well-appointed cabins, excellent dining options and jaw-dropping entertainment that rivals what you'd find on Broadway.

Disney Cruise Line also does a great job of seating solo cruisers together during meals so they don't have to dine alone. If you prefer a table by yourself, ask the dining staff. You can also take meals at the buffet, order room service, or check out one of the ship's alternative eateries, including adults-only Italian restaurant Palo , O'Gill's pub or several poolside venues.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

Disney Wonder: Best Disney ship for West Coast cruisers

With Florida serving as the undisputed cruise capital of the world, travelers living on the West Coast are often out of luck. Not so with Disney Cruise Line.

The best Disney ship for people wishing to set sail from California or Vancouver is Disney Wonder. One of the line's two oldest vessels, it runs three- and four-night springtime voyages from San Diego to Baja California with calls on Ensenada, Mexico, and five- to nine-night Alaska sailings departing from Vancouver in the summer and fall.

Don't let the ship's age fool you. The line does a tremendous job of maintaining it, so it looks nearly new. Service, food and entertainment live up to Disney's high standards.

If you're looking for something different than Disney's standard West Coast offerings, you can also snag one-way repositioning voyages when the ship changes locations seasonally. Examples include sailings from San Diego to Vancouver or from Vancouver to Honolulu.

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

Disney Dream: Best Disney cruise ship for longer voyages

Most of Disney's sailings are short, whisking passengers away for three to five days. The itineraries are fairly standard, featuring port calls in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, including the line's private island, Castaway Cay .

If you're craving something a bit longer or want to visit a far-flung destination, Disney Dream is the ship you'll want to book.

Offering 10-, 11- and 12-night voyages in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, Disney Dream takes passengers to ports like Rome (Civitavecchia), Florence (Livorno), Barcelona, Athens, Santorini, Southampton, Reykjavik and Copenhagen.

Remember that all of Disney Dream's Europe cruises depart from within Europe, so you'll need to factor flights — potentially costly open-jaw ones — into your budget.

Bottom line

Disney has something for every cruiser, regardless of age, whether you're a parent or a Disney adult, and whether you choose to cruise alone or with friends or family.

The sailings can be expensive, so you'll want to book the best ship for you before you make such a sizeable investment. Luckily, Disney Cruise Line's five ships offer a variety of experiences for all sorts of travelers.

Want more information on cruising with Disney? Check out our Disney Cruise Line tips and tricks .

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

These are the best Greece cruises for island hopping with ease.

With its stunning beaches, rich history, iconic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, a trip to Greece is always a great idea. However, since the nation is home to more than 6,000 islands — some of which are only accessible by boat — your best bet is to explore via cruise. Just take it from Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder, who tells T+L that “Greece and the Greek isles are just the perfect destinations to explore by ship” since “a cruise allows you to see more islands and gives you a unique vantage point.” Several of the best Greece cruises also include visits to neighboring countries like Turkey and Italy, for example, which allow travelers to experience several cultures and countries in one action-packed trip. Intrigued? We don’t blame you: Ahead, check out our favorite Greece cruises for every type of traveler, along with itinerary recommendations and expert insight.

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel, a Chicago-based travel agency. 

Mary Curry is a T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist.

Kari Dillon is the owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, an agency specializing in theme park and cruise vacations.

Megan Guinnup is a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels.

Windstar Cruises

According to Clabbers, this small luxury cruise line is perfect for those who prefer “a smaller, more casual yacht-style experience.” Per the pro, the onboard vibes are best described as “upscale, but not stuffy or over-the-top.” It’s also worth noting that “each ship offers a water sports platform with kayaks, water trampolines, stand-up paddling, snorkel gear, floating carpets, and other ‘toys’ that are deployed (weather and location permitting, of course) at least once on most Greek itineraries.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Windstar’s Greece itineraries, Clabbers is quick to call out the popular Treasures of the Greek Isles voyage, which sets sail each week from May through October. Passengers can visit beloved ports of call like Mykonos and Santorini, along with “lesser-known (and less-crowded!) places like Monemvasia and Patmos.” As part of the experience, guests have the unique opportunity to feast among the ruins in neighboring Turkey as part of the line’s complimentary Evening in Ephesus “after-hours” event, which, per Clabbers, features a decadent five-course dinner accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Speaking of culinary offerings, it’s worth mentioning that Windstar is the official cruise line partner of the esteemed James Beard Foundation, which means you can expect some of the top eats at sea.

Explora Journeys

“A new entrant in the luxury travel industry, Explora Journeys offers all the style and comfort of a modern European luxury resort property on its 922-guest yacht-inspired Explora I and, launching later this year, Explora II, ” explains Clabbers. The line has taken the industry by storm, doing away with cliche cruise staples like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously small staterooms. Instead, says Clabbers, guests can choose from a selection of “excellent restaurants that other companies would call specialty restaurants,” as well as “four swimming pools, each with their own vibe,” and all-suite accommodations, some of which boast private plunge pools. Per the pro, it’s worth noting that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line that offers a dedicated youth activity program and facility year-round;” as such, it’s an excellent option for multi-generational families looking to cruise Greece in style. 

Itinerary: Sailing round-trip from Athens, the aptly named eight-night A Journey from Athens to Athens itinerary includes a mix of popular ports like Mykonos and Santorini, along with hidden-gem locales like Syros, which is famous for its neoclassical architecture, a buzzy main town, and (essentially) crowd-free beaches. The cruise also visits the serene resort town of Marmaris in Turkey before heading to its final port of call, Kos , a gorgeous Greek island known for its sandy beaches, white-washed buildings, and historical sites.

Celebrity Cruises

According to Clabbers, " Celebrity Cruises was launched by a Greek shipping family," so the line has deep ties to — and many officers who hail from — the country. What’s more, he says, "When you visit Greece, they are taking you to their homeland, and it shows in their passion and love of the Hellenic nation." The line offers a range of larger ships and, thus, more options between accommodations (from economical inside rooms to luxurious suites in The Retreat), itineraries, restaurants, and entertainment; as such, Celebrity is "a great option for adults and families who like more activities on their ship." 

Itinerary: The nine-night Best Of Greece itinerary cruises round-trip from Athens on select dates from May to October and takes place aboard the 2,170-passenger Celebrity Infinity , which Clabbers described as one of the line’s “smaller and more seasoned ships.” The first port of call is Santorini, followed by Ephesus in Turkey and Mykonos. “Additionally,” says Clabbers, " Infinity   travels to Volos and Thessaloniki, ports that are not typically visited by large ships.” Kavala, located in the northern part of the country, serves as the final port of call before heading back to Athens. Here, cruisers can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and architecture — plus some seriously stunning landscapes (from lagoons and lakes to wetlands and beaches) along with lush flora and fauna.

Related: What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Silversea offers a variety of Greece cruise itineraries, and it’s one of few truly luxe all-inclusive cruise lines. Per Clabbers, the 596-passenger Silver Moon offers all-suite accommodations and a classic small-ship feel — complete with excellent meals, beverages, and shore excursions all included in your cruise fare. Speaking of the latter, he says, “The inclusion of shore excursions also makes it easy to dive deeper into Greek culture and culinary experiences.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Silversea’s Greek itineraries, Clabbers especially recommends the seven-night Athens to Athens cruise, which “calls on highlights, but adds places like Souda Bay in Crete, Nafplion, Patmos, and Rhodes ,” where he recommends visiting the “temple ruins at Lindos, with views over the Mediterranean, and then walk in the footsteps of the Crusaders in the old town.” The cruise also stops in Nafplion, which, despite its romantic seaside setting and lovely beaches, is yet to be uncovered by most American travelers — for now, at least.

Variety Cruises

According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry , this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most carrying fewer than 50 passengers. Since the ships are so small, says Curry, “you can travel a bit further off the beaten path.” Variety offers a handful of Greece itineraries, including specially themed hiking and wine cruises.

Itinerary: Travelers craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience can book the seven-night Unexplored Greece voyage, which sails round-trip from Athens. The first port of call is Ikira, a tiny island known for its hot springs that also happens to be one of the world’s Blue Zones. Then, it’s off to Patmos, known for its fascinating history and unspoiled beaches, before overnighting in Lipsi, a laid-back isle famous for its gorgeous scenery. On board, guests can taste the destination’s famous wine, Aposperitis. The fun continues in Levintha, inhabited by a single family who raises animals and runs a restaurant where guests can enjoy fresh-caught fish. After, it’s off to Amorgos, where scenic hiking and beautiful beaches abound. The next day, you’ll stop at Panagia Hozoviotissa, a cliffside monastery dating back to the 10th century, before heading to Koufonisia, which boasts majestic caves and rock pools accessible only by boat (thankfully, Variety as you covered). The final stop of the day is the serene island of Iraklia, which offers clear-blue waters ideal for swimming. After remaining here overnight, you’ll head to the final port of call, Serifos, where guests can visit a remote beach, followed by an onboard BBQ feast to refuel before heading to Chora, a fairy-tale village.

This French-owned cruise line offers an impressive fleet of small luxury ships. Additionally, says Curry, “Most cabins have private balconies, and travelers who plan early are rewarded with excellent value for the money.” What’s especially unique about Pontant, explains the pro, is that they “partner with Smithsonian Journeys on select departures to offer an enrichment program of included lectures and shore excursions in each port.”

Itinerary: Curry especially recommends the seven-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean sailing, which will cruise round-trip from Athens in July and October 2025. The cruise calls on aforementioned spots like Patmos, Rhodes, and Amorgos before visiting Adamas in Milos, a volcanic island teeming with postcard-worthy white-washed towns and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Adamas itself is a tiny fishing port where colorful boats shimmer against the blue waters. Finally, it’s off to Mykonos and Napflion before finally disembarking in Athens.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is world-famous for its exciting onboard offerings for children of all ages — including character and superhero meet-and-greets, dining options themed after beloved Disney princesses, and live performances galore — making it a favorite for families hoping for a fun-filled Greece vacation.

Itinerary: "Setting sail aboard the Disney Dream on the seven-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles itinerary is nothing short of magical!" says Megan Guinnup , a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels . Cruising round-trip from Rome, the ship calls on Naples before exploring Greece. In addition to popular ports like Athens and Mykonos, you'll also visit Chania on the island of Crete, which offers a bustling harbor, exquisite architecture, and cobblestone streets that look like they were plucked straight from a (Disney) fairy tale. After exploring each locale, the fun continues back on board, where, per the pro, "there is enchantment everywhere — meeting beloved characters, enjoying deck parties with Mickey and Minnie, and indulging in exquisite cuisine."

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship line truly has it all: Flashy entertainment and onboard activities — which, depending on the ship, can include everything from water slides to zip lines — and plenty of drinking and dining offerings to appease even the pickiest eaters. Guinnup and Kari Dillon, owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, recommend setting sail aboard Odyssey of the Seas , which offers several Greek itineraries. "On board," says Guinnup, "There's a plethora of activities to enjoy, from bumper cars and roller skating to exquisite dining and a bionic bar — there's something for everyone!"

Itinerary: The seven-night Greek Isles itinerary sails round-trip from Rome with stops in Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos, and Naples. Keep in mind that because the ship is so large, Santorini and Mykonos are both tender ports. With that in mind, Dillon recommends springing on The Key, an optional add-on that includes priority tender access so that you can spend as much time as possible on land basking in its beauty.

Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson’s adults-only line has taken the industry by storm with its innovative offerings, including 20-plus restaurants instead of buffets, an onboard tattoo parlor, adult-focused entertainment offerings, and a two-story nightclub.

Itinerary: Dillon especially recommends the seven-night Greek Island Aglow itinerary for travelers seeking a high-energy, adults-only option. She continues, telling T+L, “Not only does this sail to the islands of Santorini and Rhodes, but it [also] has an overnight in Mykonos, which is world-famous for its lively party atmosphere.” As a bonus, the cruise also calls on Bodrum in Turkey, which boasts beautiful beaches, flower-filled cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene.

Celestyal Cruises

The Greece-based Celesytal Cruises prides itself on offering an authentic Greek vacation experience. Additionally, Celesytal is unique in that it offers year-round Aegean Sea sailings cruising round-trip from Athens and ranging in length from three to 14 nights. On land, Celeystal guests can choose from a selection of the line’s “Authentic Excursions,” which are specially curated, small-group, expert-led experiences designed to take travelers off the beaten path. Options — including walking food tours and pottery-making demos at a local factory — abound, depending on the particular port of call.

Itinerary: The seven-night Idyllic Aegean voyage visits Thessaloniki (which offers an eclectic combination of history, nightlife, and gastronomy), Kuşadası (a popular Turkish resort town), and Heraklion (the capital of Crete) before heading to iconic isles like Santorini and Mykonos, where the ship will remain overnight. Before returning to Athens for disembarkation, you’ll also stop in magnificent Milos.

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