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Disney Magic Staterooms

Best Staterooms on a Disney Cruise

Disney Cruise Lines are perfect for families looking to enjoy quality time together. But with so many different categories and subcategories, how do you know which stateroom is right for you? Let’s investigate how to select the best staterooms on a Disney cruise for your family vacation.

Not familiar with the term “stateroom”?  Disney Cruise Line refers to the individual passenger rooms on its cruise ships as “staterooms.”  You might have heard these previously referred to elsewhere as “ cabins .”

The Disney Cruise Line offers four main types of staterooms: Concierge (the most expensive ), Veranda, Oceanview, and Inside (the least expensive). In each category and within each ship, there are different options (subcategories). Category 1 is typically the most costly, followed by Category 2, etc. Category 11 is the least expensive. Within each category, subcategory A is typically more expensive than subcategory B, and so on.

The amenities and size of the room usually correspond to the price, with Category 1 being the biggest and best while Category 11 has the smallest rooms with the fewest features.

Within each numbered category, the letter subcategories typically designate more preferable locations on the ship’s deck plan (rather than differences in stateroom amenities).  For example, a 4A stateroom might be in a better location than a 4C stateroom, but the interiors of both staterooms will be virtually identical. Note that some Concierge staterooms are an exception to this rule; Category 1A is a drastically different stateroom versus Category 1B.

Generally speaking, rooms located on higher decks or the middle of each deck plan (known as midship or mid ) are considered more preferable than lower decks or staterooms that are forward (front of the ship) or aft (rear of the ship). Which side of the ship the room is on (port side or starboard side) generally does not factor into stateroom category.

Also note that some stateroom categories cater to different travel parties. Some staterooms might only sleep up to a family of four , whereas others can hold five or more.

Please note that this guide does not include accessible suites , which offer the same level of convenience and comfort to guests with disabilities. For questions about accessible suites or any of the below-listed rooms, please get in touch with The Vacationeer .

Their team of experienced Disney travel agents will help you find the best itineraries at the lowest price, and there’s never an additional charge for their services.

Now, let’s look at the best staterooms on a Disney Cruise ship .

Concierge Staterooms (Most Expensive Main Category)

The stunning Concierge Wish Tower Suite stateroom on the Disney Wish | Image © Disney

The Concierge category offers the most luxurious – and expensive – accommodations on Disney Cruise Line. Each room has a large private verandah and premium amenities and services.

The Concierge Wish Tower Suite and the Concierge Royal Suite are the ship’s most spacious and lavishly appointed rooms. Additionally, the Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite is a more modestly priced option that still offers an incredible experience. For families, the Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom provides plenty of space and convenient access to all of the ship’s family-friendly amenities.

Concierge-level staterooms in categories 1, 2, and 3 include additional perks , such as access to priority seating for excursions and events and exclusive access to the Concierge Lounge, where you can relax with complimentary coffee, tea, and pastries or enjoy evening hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.

Here’s a breakdown of the categories found in the Concierge category.

Category 1A – Concierge Wish Tower Suite (Disney Wish cruise ship only)

The Wish Tower Suite on Deck 14 and 15 is the Disney Cruise Line’s most luxurious room. It has two bedrooms, a space for children with two bunk beds, and a library that can convert into two more rooms. Aside from the four full bathrooms and the half-bath off the living room, the suite has floor-to-ceiling windows on both decks, providing a great view of the ship from the suite.

Eight guests can stay in this 1,966 sq. ft. suite. It has a wow factor like no other!

Recommendation :  The Concierge Wish Tower Suite is the perfect choice for families or groups who have the money to spend and won’t settle for anything less than the best. Nothing out-competes the luxury of this stateroom.  It truly is the best stateroom on a Disney Cruise.

The location of the Concierge Wish Tower Suite | Image © Disney

Category 1A – Concierge Royal Suite w/ Verandah (Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, & Wonder cruise ships)

The Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah stateroom is the largest and most luxurious suite offered on Disney’s Dream, Fantasy, Magic, and Wonder. The Magic and Wonder ships can accommodate up to 7 guests, and the Dream and Fantasy ships can accommodate up to 5 guests.

The suite features a living area with a formal dining table and sitting area and a massive verandah with a private hot tub on the Dream and Fantasy ships. The decor in these suites is luxurious and tasteful, making it the perfect choice for those looking for the ultimate in luxury and comfort.

Recommendation :  This is the Crème de la Crème of staterooms on the Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, and Wonder cruise ships. If roominess and luxury are what you’re after, and you have the money to spend, then Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah is a great choice. 

Category 1B – Concierge 2-Story Royal Suite w/ Verandah (Disney Wish)

The Concierge 2-Story Royal Suite with Verandah on the Disney Wish cruise ship is a luxurious and spacious stateroom that spans two decks (decks 12 and 13). The Suite features a spiral staircase, two large bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a large dining and living area, and two large verandahs with a private hot tub.

This stateroom is an impressive 1,759 sq. ft and can comfortably sleep six guests,

Recommendation:  The 2-Story Royal Suite is another fantastic offering from the new Disney Wish. Perfect for families and groups of six who want to be treated like kings and queens. 

Category 1B – Concierge 2-Bedroom Suite w/ Verandah (Disney Magic & Wonder)

Disney Cruise Line’s Concierge 2-Bedroom Suite with Verandah features two separate bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, and a spacious sitting area.  The total area is 945 sq. ft., including the verandah, and can accommodate up to seven people. A large verandah is perfect for enjoying the views or relaxing. It is an impressive suite, perfect for a large group or family!

This stateroom is only available on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder .

Recommendation:   An excellent choice for families who want plenty of luxury and space. Choose the starboard (right) side if you sail to Castaway Cay because you will have better views of Disney’s private island when docked. 

Category 1C – 1-Story Royal Suites w/ Verandah (Disney Wish)

With a classic elegance inspired by Sleeping Beauty, the Disney Wish’s 1-Story Royal Suites with Verandah are perfect for families and groups of up to 6. There are two bedrooms, a living room and dining room, three full bathrooms, and an impressive 1,507 square feet of living space. The wet bar is perfect for entertaining, and the large private verandah with a whirlpool tub is the ideal place to relax.

Recommendation :  These beautiful and family-friendly staterooms will make your cruise vacation unforgettable.

Category 2A and 2B – Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite w/ Verandah (All Disney Cruise Ships)

Disney cruises offer a 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah for those looking for a little extra space and privacy on their vacation. The suite sleeps up to 5 people and features a separate bedroom, two bathrooms, a living room, and a wet bar.  The main bathroom has double sinks, a rain-style shower, and a whirlpool tub. A large walk-in closet provides plenty of space for storing your belongings.

The main difference between Categories 2A and 2B is location. Magic and Wonder’s 2A suites have a slightly different layout with a longer verandah. Dream and Fantasy’s 2A suites are located between the two connecting Royal Suites and the ship’s front center. The 2A suites of the Disney Wish are located on deck 12 and have a deeper verandah than the 2B suites.

Recommendation:  This is an excellent option if you only need one bedroom but still want plenty of roominess and class. 

A Concierge One-Bedroom Suite on the Disney Fantasy | Image © Disney

Category 3A and 3B – Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom w/ Verandah (Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, & Wonder)

The Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on Disney cruises is a luxurious private room that sleeps up to five people. This room is complete with a private verandah with beautiful sea views and an abundance of warm woods and custom fabrics.

The stateroom features a queen-sized bed, a convertible sofa, a Pullman bunk bed, and a spacious bathroom with a shower, TV, and a safe. There are just over 300 square feet of living space. Additionally, families have concierge-level guests access to a private lounge and priority boarding.

Recommendation:   Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom is excellent for families that want the luxury and perks of a Concierge-level stateroom but don’t need all the bells and whistles (and expense) of the Category 1 and 2 staterooms. 

Category 3B – Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom (Disney Wish)

The Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom on Disney Wish offers stunning sea views through floor-to-ceiling windows.

A king bed, a single convertible sofa, and an upper-berth single pull-down bed make up this room, which can accommodate up to five guests. There is also a wall pull-down bed in rooms that sleep five. The 357-square-foot room provides plenty of space for the whole family to relax.

Guests staying in a Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom also have access to special concierge services, including priority boarding and seating at shows and restaurant reservations. If you’re looking for a truly magical experience, book a stay in one of these Little Mermaid-themed spaces.

Recommendation :  These are fun and family-oriented staterooms on Disney’s newest cruise ship. This is a good option if you want a Concierge-level room at a relatively affordable price.

Verandah (Balcony) Staterooms

A stateroom verandah onboard the Disney Magic | Image © Disney

Verandah staterooms are Disney’s most spacious non-concierge accommodations, each with its own balcony outside the ship where you can enjoy the fresh air while watching the ocean go by.

Category four, five, six, and seven are verandah staterooms. Some rooms in this category offer partial views, but all provide a comfortable and relaxing space.

Category 4 – Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom w/ Verandah (All Disney Cruise Ships)

The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on Disney cruises is the largest stateroom on the ships that are not concierge suites. Roughly 300 sq ft, it sleeps up to 5 and is the only single-room option for a family of 5 on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is also the most frequently booked option for families of 5 on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy .

All of these factors considered it’s no wonder that this room type is one of the most popular among families cruising with Disney.

Recommendation : The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom is perfect for families of four or five who value roominess and want to enjoy the ocean breeze from the verandah . 

Category 5 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (All Disney Cruise Ships)

The Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on Disney cruises is a fantastic choice for your family cruise. With enough space to comfortably sleep 3-4 guests and an unobstructed verandah, this room type is perfect for enjoying the beautiful view.

Magic and Wonder’s cabins are 268 sq ft, while Dream, Fantasy, and Wish are 248 sq ft. The Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah come with a queen bed, a sleeper sofa, and a pull-out berth (if sleeping four). This room type also features a sitting area, plenty of closet space, and a private verandah to enjoy the view without leaving your stateroom.

Recommendation :   Among the regular-sized verandah cabins, these are the most common and the most frequently booked for families with four or fewer members. They are an excellent choice!

A Category 5 stateroom on the Disney Dream | Image © Disney

Category 6 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah – Undersized, Obstructed View, or White Wall  (All Disney Cruise Ships)

Category 6 staterooms are located near the back of the ship’s upper deck. Accommodations are nearly identical to those found in Category 5 but have either an undersized, obstructed, or white wall verandah. Those who book a Category 6 cabin on the Magic and Wonder will have full white wall railings, while on the Dream and Fantasy, the white wall only extends halfway up the railing.

All of these staterooms sleep at least three, and many sleep 4.

Recommendation :  Because these rooms are nearly identical to Category 5 rooms, they are a terrific way to save money on your Disney cruise . We recommend the Dream and Fantasy 6B staterooms because of their stunning views, and Disney Magic and Wonder’s Category 6 staterooms on Deck 6 have more verandah space, as do 5650 and 5150.

Category 7 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator’s Verandah (All Disney Cruise Ships)

Navigator verandahs on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder feature mostly enclosed balconies with a viewing window cut out. In contrast, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish have a minimally obstructed view from the verandah.

Recommendation:  The rooms in Category 7 are nearly identical to those in Category 5 and 6, so they are a good way to save on a Disney cruise if you don’t mind having a partial view. We believe these are the best values in the verandah category, particularly on the Dream, Fantasy, and Wish.

Feeling overwhelmed?  Working with an experienced Disney travel agent can calm the waters!  Contact the Disney Cruise experts at The Vacationeer !

Not only will they arrange every part of your cruise, but they’ll provide a generous onboard credit you can use towards purchases while you’re on the ship.  There’s never any obligation to book, and there’s no additional charge to use their planning services!

If it’s your first time cruising with Disney , working with The Vacationeer really is the best way to go!

Oceanview (Porthole) Staterooms

The giant porthole featured in some oceanview staterooms on the Disney Dream | Image © Disney

The Oceanview category of staterooms (Category 8 and 9) features rooms with scenic vistas through genuine porthole windows. The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom is perfect for families, while the Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom provides a more intimate setting.

Category 8 – Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom (Disney Dream, Fantasy, & Wish)

Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish to offer a truly luxurious cruise experience with their Category 8 Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms.

These staterooms are much larger than the standard size (around 240 sq ft), sleeping between 3 and 5 people comfortably. In addition, they feature unique round tub-showers (see the video above for Category 4) and large portholes with seating, making them the perfect place to relax and take in the breathtaking views. The exceptions to this are the 8As, which are similar to suites with two large portholes and plenty of space. Families and groups can enjoy Category 8A even more since many have a divider between the bed and seating area. None of them will disappoint.

Recommendation :  Families looking for affordability and comfort will find the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom is the right choice.

Category 9 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom (All Disney Cruise Ships)

The Category 9 Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom sleeps 3 or 4 people and is the same size as the category 10’s with a similar layout and features. The Disney Dream and Fantasy Rooms are 204 sq ft, 214 on Disney Magic and Wonder, and 218 sq ft on Disney Wish. Most rooms have a porthole on one of the walls. On the Magic and Wonder ships, the 9D staterooms on deck 1 have two small portholes instead of one large porthole.

A, B, C, and D designations represent Disney’s assessment of the location and view of the room. In Dream, Fantasy, and Wish, the 9C and 9D staterooms typically have obstructed views and are usually located in the front of the vessel.

Recommendation :  If you prefer to save money over having a porthole in your room, opt for Category 10. 

Inside Staterooms (Least Expensive Main Category)

An Inside Stateroom on the Disney Wish | Image © Disney

The Inside category features Disney Cruise Line’s base accommodations, with no window (no exterior view) but still featuring a nautical motif. The Deluxe Inside Stateroom is slightly larger than the Standard Inside Stateroom and provides additional storage space and a sitting area.

Category 10 –Deluxe Inside Stateroom (Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, & Wonder)

Rooms in Category 10 are almost identical to those in Category 9, except for being unable to see the outside. These staterooms also have more square footage than those in Category 11.

The Disney Dream/Fantasy Deluxe Inside Staterooms are 204 sq ft, and the Disney Magic/Wonder rooms are 214 sq ft. They can accommodate 3 or 4 people.

Disney Wish does not have a Deluxe Inside category.

Virtual portholes on the Disney Dream and Fantasy ships allow passengers to see what is happening outside (along with a bit of Disney magic thrown in).

There are also a select few unnamed staterooms on the Magic/Wonder ships known in some circles as “secret porthole” staterooms — they actually have porthole windows but Disney decided not to classify them as oceanview rooms because lifeboats or other architectural elements obstruct the views.

Deluxe Inside Staterooms have a split bathroom, with one half having a sink and a shower, and the other half having a toilet and a sink. A, B, and C subcategories are assigned according to their locations, with A subcategories on upper decks or closer to midship, while C subcategories are on lower decks.

Recommendation : Deluxe Inside Cabins/Staterooms are an excellent option for couples or families of 3 or 4 on a budget. 

Category 11 – Standard Inside Stateroom (All Disney Cruise Ships)

Standard Inside Staterooms are typically the cheapest rooms available on Disney Cruise Line .

Standard Inside Staterooms sleep three, and some sleep four.  They’re smaller than other staterooms, but the amenities are the same. The Disney Magic and Wonder rooms are 184 square feet, while the Dream Fantasy and Wish rooms are 169 square feet.

There’s no split bathroom in a Standard Inside Stateroom. The Disney Dream and Fantasy ships feature a Magical Porthole with real-time views, but the other ships do not have exterior views.

Disney divides the rooms into categories A, B, and C based on attractiveness. Category 11A rooms are found on upper decks and near the ship’s middle, while 11B rooms are on lower decks.

Recommendation:  The Standard Inside Statement is a small and cheap option, so you shouldn’t expect too much from it. However, this DCL room offers more space than you would get on other (non-Disney) cruise ships of the same class. It allows couples and small families the opportunity to enjoy a Disney cruise at a reasonable price.

As always seems to be the case, the best option for you may not be the best option for another family.

Ask yourself the question: “what’s most important to me?”  Is it having a balcony? Is it experiencing concierge level service in a suite? Is it having additional beds for kids? Is it saving money and just making sure you’re onboard the ship?

Answering those questions, then reviewing deck plans, photos, reviews, and our guide/tips above will help you decide what’s best for you.

No matter your room type, you’re sure to have a magical experience aboard a Disney Cruise ship.

Thanks for reading our Best Staterooms on a Disney Cruise article.  Happy cruising (and don’t forget your passport)!

Ready to Book your Disney Cruise Line Stateroom?

Working with an experienced travel agent is the best way to ensure smooth sailing, and The Vacationeer is ready and willing to help you. They can help you determine the best staterooms on a Disney Cruise for your family and the best time to go on a Disney cruise as far as cost and weather are concerned.

Their team of Disney travel agents will help you wade through an ocean of option, arranging every part of your cruise and providing a generous onboard credit you can use towards purchases, activities, and gratuity while you’re on the ship.

Whether you’re planning far in advance or looking for a last-minute cruise , they have the know-how to save you money!

There’s never any obligation to book, and there’s no additional charge to use their planning services!

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What types of staterooms and suites are available on Disney Cruise ships?

Find your dream suite, from comfortable cabins to elegant spaces, and plan your dream getaway.

Book Disney Cruises

The magic of setting out on a Disney cruise vacation goes far beyond the decks and sails. The lodgings are an integral part of the captivating experience, providing a variety of staterooms and suites to suit different tastes and requirements. Disney Cruise Line offers a range of options that promise comfort and an element of elegance and grandeur, from comfortable interiors to roomy suites suited for royalty.

What is the ideal suite on Disney Cruise ships?

Inside staterooms.

The Inside Staterooms are the ideal hideaway for individuals looking for a cost-effective choice without sacrificing style. These cabins can house four people and feature imported tiles, nautical accents, and natural wood textures. The intelligent layout makes the most available room and comfort, resulting in a cozy environment perfect for unwinding.

Oceanview Staterooms

Oceanview Staterooms offer a breathtaking view through a porthole, enabling guests to stay connected to the splendor of the open ocean. These exquisitely designed cabins, which can sleep up to four people, blend luxurious grandeur with the calming influence of the sea to provide an immersive experience that establishes the mood for an unforgettable journey.

Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah

The Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah elevate the experience by enhancing the sea views. Having a private verandah allows guests to take in the spectacular views and cool coastal breezes from the privacy of their own homes. These rooms may accommodate three to five people and offer unmatched intimacy and freshness.

Concierge Suites

The Concierge Suites on Disney Cruise Line are the epitome of luxury for travelers looking for the best onboard accommodations. These lavish apartments come in a variety of sizes to accommodate groups of five to seven people. The suites are intended to offer a luxurious and private experience, replete with individualized care from the Concierge services team and a number of exclusive facilities.

Royal Suite with Verandah

The most luxurious accommodation on board, the Royal Suite with Verandah, is the definition of luxury. This suite can easily accommodate up to seven guests owing to its two bedrooms, one with a queen-size bed and the other with twin beds with pull-down top sleepers. Living and eating areas, a media library with a wall bed that folds down, numerous bathrooms with whirlpool tubs, a pantry, a wet bar, and walk-in closets are all included in the suite. Guests can savor the beauty of the surroundings from their own verandah's breathtaking ocean view.

2-Bedroom Suite with Verandah

The 2-Bedroom Suite with Verandah is a spacious refuge that can house up to seven guests and is perfect for bigger groups. This suite is ideal for families or groups of friends since it has a master bedroom with a queen bed and a second bedroom with twin beds. After a day of exploring, guests can unwind in a cozy and private place provided by a convertible sofa in the living room.

1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah

The one-bedroom suite with a verandah offers the ideal fusion of solitude and luxury for individuals who value both. This suite has a master bedroom with a queen-size bed, a living space with a double convertible sofa, and a single-wall pull-down bed that can sleep up to five people. The suite includes two bathrooms, a walk-in closet, and a jacuzzi tub. Families or couples looking for a unique experience should consider it.

Concierge Services

Regardless of the lodging option, Disney Cruise Line's Concierge Services provide a variety of special advantages that improve the journey. The Concierge experience ensures that passengers are properly cared for throughout their journey, from pre-arrival services that let visitors reserve onboard activities to upgraded comforts like spa items, luxurious bedding, and custom pillow selections.

Also Read:  Which Stateroom Suits You the Most?

Final Words

The selection of staterooms and suites offered by Disney Cruise Line is the ideal blend of coziness, elegance, and enchantment. The choices can accommodate a wide range of preferences, whether you're looking for a private internal cabin, a room with a view, or an extravagant suite suited for a king or queen. A trip with Disney Cruise Line is more than simply a vacation; it's a beautiful experience that provides a home away from home on the open seas through Concierge Services that provide an extra degree of exclusivity and convenience. Every element, from the smallest particulars to the largest suites, is intended to make your trip unforgettable. 

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Disney Cruise Line Stateroom Considerations for Larger Families

If your family consists of four or fewer people, selecting a stateroom on the Disney Cruise Line ships is a straightforward affair – your party can fit into most DCL staterooms. If you have five or more people in your traveling party, things get a little more complicated. Here’s what you need to know:

Many Stateroom Categories Won’t Accommodate a Party of Five or More

Take a look, for example, at the deck plans for the Disney Dream and Fantasy. A quick skim of the room floor plans at the top will show you that all staterooms in categories 11, 10, 9, 7, 6, and 5 are off limits for your group if you all want to stay together. The same floor plans shows you that if you have a party of six or more, you won’t be able to stay in one room together at all on these ships. (Click to enlarge the image.)

If you’re a party of five, and you want to stay together in one cabin, your only options on these ships are stateroom categories 3, 4, and 8, plus the pricey concierge categories 1, 2, and 3.

If you Have a Party of Five, Even if You Can All Fit into One Room, You Might Not Want To

On the Dream and Fantasy, a category 4 stateroom, which can accommodate five guests, runs approximately 300 square feet, including the verandah. At the full capacity of five guests, that gives each person 60 square feet, some of which is bathroom and outdoor space, and most of which is consumed by the bed and other furniture. Also on the Dream and Fantasy, a category 8 stateroom (an oceanview room with no verandah), which allows five guests, is approximately 240 square feet total, or 48 square feet per person, much of which is consumed by the bathroom and furniture.

And consider that you’ll have five people’s worth of luggage to store, devices to charge, and toiletries to contain, and you’ll soon realize how quickly cozy can turn into cranky.

If you’ve never been on a cruise before, as you make your stateroom selection, one thing to consider is that you may use your stateroom differently than a hotel room at Walt Disney World, for example. I’ve been on plenty of Walt Disney World vacations where I left my hotel room at 7:30am and returned at 11:00pm to just to shower and sleep. I was too far away and too occupied in the parks to go back to my room.

This type of room avoidance is unlikely on a cruise. There’s certainly plenty to do on the ships, but chances are you’ll be in and out of your room much more often on board than you would be at theme parks, even if only to change clothes. On board a ship, guests often find a need to change frequently. On a typical day, you might be in and out of exercise clothes, swim clothes, casual attire, and formal dinner attire, then back to swim or casual attire. If one person wants to nap and another person needs to change, there’s not much room for quiet and privacy with only 48 square feet to call your own.

Splitting Your Party Into Two Staterooms May Save Your Sanity

If you’re putting five guests into one category 4 stateroom, for example, your sleep surfaces will be one queen sized bed, one twin-size sleeper sofa, a twin-size Murphy bed, and a twin-size bed that pulls down from the ceiling. This set-up requires that two of the guests sleep in the same bed. If you’re traveling with adults who don’t want to share a sleep surface this could be problematic. This arrangement might also be tight for any guest who is physically larger than average. Some teen boys may find that the twin-size beds, particularly the top bunk, are uncomfortably small.

I have three daughters who all like to take their time in the bathroom. Even with DCL’s split-bath (shower/sink in one compartment, toilet/sink in a different compartment) arrangement, we have A LOT of grumbles about who is taking too long to get ready. And again, there is often more need to get ready on a cruise ship than their would be in some other vacation situations.

Having more sleep surfaces and more bathroom space could be the key family harmony. This can be accomplished by booking your family of five or more into two cabins rather than one.

Contrast this with putting five guests into two category 11 staterooms. This combination would give the party two queen beds, two twin sleeper sofas, and likely two twin beds that pull down from the ceiling. This gives your group an additional adult-sized sleep surface, which can be helpful if the members of the party are friends rather than family, if the guests are physically larger, or if there is more than one guest with a fear of heights who doesn’t want to sleep in a bunk-like situation. And – while the category 11 staterooms don’t have a split bathroom, they do have two showers, which may be better for some party configurations.

The Finances of Two Staterooms May Not Be Different Than One Stateroom

Note: Stateroom pricing is quite variable. The same room might be a drastically different price depending on your sail date and the date on which you book the cruise. So that I’m comparing apples to apples, the prices I’m about to note were all found on the same date for the same cruise. You might encounter different pricing if you conduct your own search.

For the April 6, 2023 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami on the Dream, putting five guests into one stateroom (two adults and three kids, ages 15, 10, and 8) involves a minimum cost of about $7,400 in an Oceanview stateroom, or about $7,850 in a Verandah stateroom. (An inside stateroom is not an option with this party composition.)

If you instead book these folks into two inside staterooms, you can get a price of about $7,900. This is less than $100 different than putting everyone into one Verandah stateroom to get more sleep surfaces, more square footage, and an additional shower.

Losing window or verandah access might be a deal-breaker for some families, but a compromise might be to get one inside cabin and one with outdoor access.

When you’re playing around with different stateroom combinations, be aware that the first two people booked into a stateroom always pay the adult rate, regardless of age. If you have young kids and teens, you may be able to save a few dollars by making sure the youngest child is booked as the third person in a room (rather than the second) so that they get charged the child rate instead of inadvertently forcing them into the adult rate.

You Can Make Two Staterooms Feel Like One Room

Families with young children might worry about putting little ones in a different cabin. Never fear! Break out your magnifying glass for a look at the deck plans and you’ll see that many of the staterooms on the Disney ships are connected by an internal door. (Look for the little V-shaped symbol between the rooms to indicate that the rooms are connected. Seriously, you may need a magnifying glass to see them.) Connecting rooms are available at most stateroom levels, from standard category 11 inside staterooms, on up to concierge suites. There are even a few concierge rooms which allow more than two rooms to be connected.

Connecting rooms are exactly what they sound like, two rooms connected by an internal door. Opening the internal door effectively turns those cabins into a multi-room suite. In addition to adding space, selecting connecting rooms gives you a real door in addition to the flimsy internal “privacy curtains” present in most rooms.

Connecting Rooms are Not All Alike

In most instances, connecting rooms are listed at the same category level. For example, an 11B is connected to an 11B or a 4C is connected to a 4C. However, there are a few unique situations in which staterooms of different categories connected. For example, on the Dream and Fantasy, stateroom 7188 (a 6B cabin) can connect to 7190 (a 5E cabin). These staterooms are quite similar, but a bit of tinkering with various combinations might save you a few dollars.

The most common situation in which you’ll find dissimilar staterooms connected occurs when one of the staterooms has a handicap accessible designation. For example, on the Dream and Fantasy, you’ll see handicap accessible stateroom 6186 (a 9A deluxe oceanview cabin) connected to 6188 (a 6B deluxe oceanview cabin with a verandah). For many parties, this would be a nice balance of economy and outdoor access, with one slightly less expensive room connected to a slightly more expensive room with an additional amenity. Of course, the priority access in this situation should go to guests who need the handicap room for medical reasons, but if theses rooms become available for general booking, it could be the best of two worlds.

If you’re looking for odd stateroom combinations, you may benefit from the expertise of a veteran cruise specialist travel agent who understands the nuances of the various options.

Your Options Expand Further if You Don’t Need Your Rooms to Connect

While parents of small or special needs children will likely want access to them via a connecting door, families with older kids, or a party of friends rather than family, might not need their rooms to be connected. For example, when my daughters were older teens, I liked to have them in a room fairly close to my husband and me, but they were experienced enough travelers that I didn’t absolutely need them to be in a connected room.

If you just want adjacent but not connected rooms, the stateroom type combinations increase dramatically. For example, on the Dream and Fantasy, cabin 9010 is an oceanview stateroom next to (but not connected to) 9012, a stateroom with a navigator’s verandah. This could be a good combination savings and outdoor access for my family, particularly if something like the connecting door handicap room combinations were not available.

There are also many families who put teens in an inside stateroom with the parents in an oceanview or verandah room directly across the hall (for example something like 9521 and 9518 on the Dream or Fantasy). Again, this allows cost savings in one room with better amenities in the other.

Larger Parties Should Get Familiar with the “Add Another Stateroom” Button

A group of six or more will get error messages when trying to book the entire party into one stateroom. Any larger party will want to get familiar with the “Add Another Stateroom” button as they explore their booking options.

Not All Age Combinations Will Work When Booking Staterooms

While getting two rooms for your larger party is often an elegant solution, it may not be possible in all cases. Disney Cruise Line requires that at least one guest age 18 or over be booked into every stateroom. Additionally, all guests ages 17 and younger must be booked into a stateroom with someone 21 or older.

This is no problem if, for example, two adults are traveling with three kids. Two get two rooms, you would book an adult with one child into one cabin, and the other adult and two children into the second cabin. However, if one adult is traveling with four children, then they would not be eligible to be booked into two staterooms. On the Dream and Fantasy, their only option would be one category 8 room or a one category 4 or higher room, assuming one is available. This is true regardless of whether the rooms are connecting and regardless of the age of the children. A single parent of four teens would have to stay with them in one stateroom rather than two.

This rule has other impacts as well. I once considered taking two of my teen daughters and a friend of theirs on a DCL cruise. While my daughters are quite close with their friend, I didn’t think she would be entirely comfortable sleeping/changing/relaxing in the same room with me (a non-family member) for a week. I wanted to get a room for the girls (again, well-behaved older teens) connected to a room for me to give everyone a measure of privacy, but Disney would not allow me to do this. We ended up scrapping our plans.

You Don’t Have to Sleep Where You’re Booked

I mentioned earlier that some families put their teens in an inside stateroom with the parents across the hall in a verandah or oceanview stateroom. Given the 18-and-over rule, you’ll see that this is not allowed from a booking perspective. However, once you’re actually on the ship, the rule is not enforced. If you’re a family traveling with more than one stateroom, Guest Services at the ship will be more than happy to code your Key to the World Cards (room keys) so that each key opens all the linked rooms. This means that on the ship, family members are free to mix and match their sleeping locations among the reserved rooms. Even though it’s not booked that way, parents can sleep in one room, with the kids in another. Most stateroom attendants will automatically ask you how you want your rooms configured and where people will really be sleeping.

Think About Your Castaway Club Status

In addition to thinking about the ages of who gets booked into which room, your ability to book excursions and fine dining may be impacted by who is booked into which stateroom.

For example, during one family vacation, my twins and I had a higher Castaway Club (DCL loyalty program) rating than my husband and other daughter (lucky us). My kids were all older, so we had no pricing issues with who got paper-booked into which cabin. However, we did run into a problem when trying to book excursions for that cruise. We inadvertently booked me and the higher Castaway status twins into one room, while my husband and lower status Castaway status daughter were in the other room. Excursion and dining booking access dates are based on the Castaway level of the highest status person in each room. Because we had stacked the deck with all the high-status family members in one of our rooms, half of our party was able to make excursion reservations before the other half. If we had arranged the booking slightly differently, booking one of the higher-status kids into the room with her dad, we would have been able to make excursion reservations for both rooms at the same time.

The excursions we were selecting were not in short supply, so as a practical matter it ended up as a non-issue, but if you were looking to book an extremely popular or scarce excursion, then you might be in trouble.

Additional Ways to Save Money on DCL for Larger Families

In addition to tinkering with different stateroom configurations, larger families (and anyone else looking to economize), may want to look closely at their travel dates. Your travel date can be the largest factor in the overall price of your Disney Cruise vacation. The price might be double on the same ship, on the same itinerary, if you choose a Christmas week voyage over one in, say, late September. Choosing a different ship is also something to consider. The Wish may be the hot new thing, but the Dream visits the same ports and is often 10% cheaper (or more) for a nearly identical itinerary.

You may also want to look at other aspects of your trip planning as areas where you can economize. Will driving, rather than flying, allow you to reduce your total budget? Will choosing a different embarkation port change your budget? Can you skip extras like pricey shore excursions?

For more tips on Disney Cruise Line travel, check out The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line .

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Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

3 thoughts on “ Disney Cruise Line Stateroom Considerations for Larger Families ”

Thanks Erin! This is very helpful. We’re a family of 5 and for our Mediterranean B2B cruises this summer, it was less for us to get 2 connecting Navigator’s Veranda rooms then one bigger room. We’re looking forward to the extra space and bathroom. Kelly

Thanks for this, Erin! We just devoured the 2022 Unofficial Guide as well. We’re a family of 6 embarking on our first cruise since our family grew to that size (we were a family of 4 on our last cruise). We had to juggle this same situation, booking connecting rooms, with my wife and 2 kids (tweens) in one room and myself and the other 2 kids (littles) in another. As you mentioned, sleeping arrangements will differ once we board. We’re also trying it a little differently on another cruise with a guaranteed rate and will see where and how they assign us.

When we called DCL, they did mention that the Wish will have rooms that sleep a family of our size, is that right?

Thanks for reading! Pretty much what we know about stateroom configurations on the Wish can be found in this post by our friend Scott Sanders at the DCL blog. https://disneycruiselineblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/StateroomLayouts_Wish_Original-Scan.jpg

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the Best Disney Cruise Rooms?

If you’re in the process of booking a Disney Cruise Line Vacation , it can be confusing to find the best Disney Cruise rooms for your time on board. That’s why we have created this guide to help you find the best Disney Cruise staterooms for your cruise vacation. Knowing how many people a stateroom can accommodate will be your priority considering the size of your party. But if you have never been on a cruise before, space in your stateroom is an amenity. So something else to take into consideration is the square footage of your Disney Cruise cabins . We cover all this and more down below so keep reading if you want to find the best fit of  Disney Cruise rooms  for you and your family. 

We hope you find this post helpful! And if you are planning a trip on a Disney cruise, 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 best deals on Disney cruises!

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

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Types of Disney Cruise Cabins Overview

Choosing the  D isney Cruise best rooms that are the best fit for your family can make or break your time at sea. There is nothing worse for a vacation than having a room too small to enjoy and make feel like your own. Especially if it’s a multi-day cruise! On the Disney Cruise Line , guests have a choice of 4 major room categories to choose from. All of these come in different sizes, sleep a different amount of guests, and have designated floors you’ll stay on. While all D isney Cruise Line staterooms  are designed for comfort, some are more comfortable than others and may be worth the extra expense. Before we dive into the best Disney Cruise rooms, let’s go over some basic knowledge that you’ll need to start planning your perfect Disney Cruise cabin.

What is a Disney Cruise Stateroom?

• The D isney Cruise Line staterooms  will be the rooms you sleep in on board the ship. They are also referred to as cabins or rooms. But for most of the planning process and time on the ship, you will know it as a stateroom. So no matter what stateroom category you choose, your Disney Cruise Line staterooms are your home away from home while on the ship. 

What is the Best Level to Stay on a Disney Cruise?

• No matter if it’s the  best deck on Disney Wish , or any other deck on a ship in the DCL fleet, the best deck to stay on is two decks below any of the restaurants. This is typically decks 8 and 9 on most of the ships. This is typically because the restaurants that are open for breakfast start setting up before the sun rises and you can hear chairs and tables slamming on the floor, or rather your ceiling. But staying on decks 8 and 9 offers easy access to upper decks where pools and recreation are. While also just a quick trip away from lower deck theaters and the main atrium. 

Related Post: What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

What are the Best Disney Cruise Staterooms?

To discover which is truly the best of the D isney Cruise rooms , we have to cover what kind of staterooms are available to pick from. As we said earlier, there are 4 major categories of staterooms to choose from when sailing with Disney . There is the Concierge level which is the most expensive but is home the the luxury Disney Cruise suites . Then there is the Verandah staterooms which are more commonly known as the Disney Cruise room with balcony. The last two are the Oceanview and Inside staterooms. These bottom two tiers are the smallest staterooms but they’re also the best rooms on Disney Cruise to sail on a budget. 

All of the Best Disney Cruise Line Staterooms

• Concierge Stateroom
• Verandah Stateroom
• Oceanview Stateroom
• Inside Stateroom

No matter what category room you decide to stay in, you will be surrounded by the magic of Disney at sea. Each room is highly themed, well decorated, and makes use of the space it’s given. The  best room on Disney Cruise can be any room if you plan and know what you’re getting into. That’s why we have broken down every single stateroom available on all 5 Disney Cruise Line ships for you to compare what are the best Disney Cruise rooms for your vacation.

Related Post: When is the Cheapest Time to Go on a Disney Cruise?

Concierge Staterooms

Concierge wish tower suite.

Ships : Disney Wish (& Disney Treasure 2024 )

Size : 1,966 sq. ft.

Sleeps : 8 Guests

Price : $30,000+

Important to Know : This first-of-its-kind accommodation, perched high in the funnel above the upper decks makes it top of the list for  best rooms on Disney Wish . Featuring décor inspired by the movie Moana, the sprawling room takes up decks 14 and 15 and is accessed via a private elevator on decks 10 and 12. Guests staying in one of the best staterooms on Disney Wish  can relax in the double-height living room which features a spectacular chandelier and floor-to-ceiling glass windows—ideal for taking in sweeping ocean views.

Related Post: Disney’s Newest Cruise Ship

Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah

Ships : Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, & Wonder

Size : 1,029 – 1,781 sq. ft.

Sleeps : 5 – 7 Guests

Price : $20,600+

Important to Know : This sophisticated art deco stateroom incorporates original artwork, vintage Disney hallmarks, and lavish marble-and-granite bathrooms to take your cruise to superlative new heights. Every Concierge Suite also includes a private verandah, affording Guests sweeping ocean views and bracing sea breezes. This D isney Cruise room is a great option for large travel parties or families looking to have space and enjoy private amenities.  This room also is home to 2 bathrooms, including a main with double sinks, a rain-style shower, and a whirlpool tub.

Related Post: How Much is a Disney Cruise Per Person?

1-Story Royal Suites with Verandah

Ships : Disney Wish

Size : 1,507 sq. ft.

Sleeps : 6 Guests

Price : $20,000+

Important to Know : Only available on the Disney Wish , guests can escape to sprawling quarters boasting extravagant details and first-class amenities inspired by the classic elegance of  Sleeping Beauty.  The plush furnishings in a soft, dreamlike palette of blue and gold are inspired by Aurora’s time in the castle. There are also dark, rich wood tones and stone accents evoking her life as Briar Rose. With 2 main bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, including 2 main bathrooms with double sinks and a Guest bathroom with a shower, there is no shortage of space in this  D isney Cruise stateroom. 

Related Post: Complete Guide to a Disney Cruise for Adults

Concierge 2-Story Royal Suite with Verandah

Size : 1,759 sq. ft.

Price : $22,979+

Important to Know : This is another Disney Wish exclusive stateroom where you can enjoy the extravagant details and first-class amenities inspired by the classic elegance of  Sleeping Beauty.  The largest difference that separates this  best verandah room on Disney Wish from the others is that this room is split between two decks by a spiral staircase leading up to the sleeping area. Another notable trait of this room is the floor-to-ceiling windows for guests to look out and enjoy the sights of the ocean as they sail the seas.

Related Post: Disney Cruise Halloween

Concierge 2-bedroom Suite with Verandah

Ships : Disney Magic & Wonder

Size : 945 sq. ft.

Sleeps : 7 Guests

Price : $12,000+

Important to Know : Exclusive to the very first ships in Disney’s fleet , this 2 bedroom suite is one of the grandest Di sney Magic rooms . A lavish retreat for up to 7 Guests, these spacious quarters feature deluxe amenities and signature Concierge services. Concierge 2-bedroom Suites with Verandah are classified as Category 01B and are located on Deck 8, Forward. Guests can relax and feel at home in a palatial 2-bedroom suite adorned with original artwork, vintage Disney hallmarks, warm wood finishes with inlaid details, tasteful furnishings, and lavish marble-and-granite bathrooms.

Related Post: What was Disney Cruise Line’s First Ship?

Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah

Ships : All Disney Cruise Ships

Size :  608 – 622 sq. ft.

Sleeps : 5 Guests

Price : $9,179

Important to Know : This first-class level of D isney Cruise rooms with a balcony can be found on every ship. However, on the brand new Disney Wish, this cabin comes with an extended verandah which makes it that much more luxurious. While this Concierge level room is the smallest available option, it comes with the title of most affordable Concierge tier stateroom. This is a great option for guests who want to save money while still sailing in style.

Related Post: Is There a Cheap Time to Book a Disney Cruise?

Verandah Staterooms

Family deluxe verandah stateroom.

Size : 299 – 304 sq. ft.

Sleeps : 4 – 5 Guests

Price : $3,000+

Important to Know : Entering the next class of rooms onboard the Disney Cruise Line , the Verandah rooms are the most popular option. Its reasonable price point, access to the ship’s amenities, and private balcony make it the go-to room for many guests. On every ship, this is a serene setting to unwind in while at sea, this room type offers generous square footage and a private place to admire the view. The extra square footage can come in handy for larger families or families with more than two little ones.

Related Post: What is Halloween on the High Seas?

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

Size : 246 – 268 sq. ft.

Sleeps : 3 – 4 Guests

Important to Know : While available on all ships, the Deluxe Oceanview Verandah room is one of the best  D isney Dream cruise rooms . Like the Family Verandah, it hosts enough space for you to feel comfortable while also allowing you a private space on the side of the ship to enjoy the views and fresh sea air. Making it the perfect room to watch the sunrise, bask in ocean breezes and, enjoy your morning coffee or an evening nightcap.

Related Post: Make the Most Out of an Adult-Only Disney Cruise

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah – Undersized, Obstructed View, or White Wall

Important to Know : While not much changes about These  D isney Cruise staterooms , the private balcony for these rooms can vary quite a bit. While you will still have patio furniture and a great view of the ocean, it might be reduced in size or impeded in some way. However, some cruises say it’s a great way to save a couple of bucks while still enjoying everything there is to have in a Verandah room.

Related Post: How Much should I save for a Disney Cruise Per Person?

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator’s Verandah

Price : $2,700+

Important to Know : The least expensive D isney Cruise room with a balcony , the Navigator’s Verandah is a smaller and more enclosed private verandah for you to enjoy. Like the obstructed or undersized verandah, nothing will change about the room itself. I loved my experience with the Navigator’s Verandah as it gave me more privacy when using the balcony. It also adds a sense of security since the only open space is the round port hole. My favorite aspect of this room is that it is less expensive and also has less wind making it easier to enjoy a meal on the balcony.

Related Post: What is the Special Halloween Disney Cruise?

Oceanview Staterooms

Deluxe family oceanview stateroom.

Ships : Disney Dream, Fantasy, & Wish

Size : 237 – 241 sq. ft.

Sleeps : 3 – 5 Guests

Price : $2,900+

Important to Know : Boasting more square footage than a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom, these spacious quarters feature one large porthole as your outlook to the sea. Depending on what room you receive and on what ship, you may even have two port holes in one room! While you can sometimes find these rooms on higher decks like 8 and 9, they are mostly located lower on the ship. The majority of these rooms are located on decks 5 and 6. These D isney Cruise cabins  are ideal for families who don’t need the private verandah. The rooms are essentially the same without the balcony!

Related Post: What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship for your Family?

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom

Size : 204 – 218 sq. ft

Price : $2,800+

Important to Know : With the same square footage as a Deluxe Inside Stateroom, this room type includes a delightful porthole window. Be dazzled by incredible sunrises and stunning sunsets through 1 or 2 portholes, all from the plush comfort of your room. If you’re looking to go on a Disney Cruise for a discount , you’ll find comfort in the Oceanview Stateroom. This room is ideal for guests who are just using their room as a place to sleep and want to fully enjoy everything the ship has to offer. While also providing natural light and still breathtaking ocean views.

Related Post: Are there Discounts on Disney Cruises?

Interior Staterooms

Deluxe inside stateroom.

Size : 204 – 214 sq. ft.

Sleeps : 3 – 4

Important to Know : Available on every ship except the Disney Wish, the Deluxe Family Inside Stateroom is ideal for guests looking to use their room simply as a place to sleep and store their belongings. While this room is by no means a  luxury Disney Cruise suite , it still is donned with incredible fabrics and comfortable bedding. On Disney Dream and Fantasy, these rooms also have “Magic Portholes”. These are LED screens in the shape of a circle showing the “ocean” outside. If you keep an eye out, you’ll see some of your favorite Disney Characters float (or swim) by!

Related Post: Which ship is Disney’s newest ship?

Standard Inside Stateroom

Size : 169 – 184 sq. ft.

Important to Know : The smallest of all staterooms, the Standard Inside Staterooms are the best  D isney Cruise rooms  to stay in if you’re cruising on a budget. Although small, it is the perfect size for someone sailing by themselves or with one other person. Personally, even though it technically can sleep up to 4 guests, I wouldn’t recommend this room for anyone traveling with more than 2 people total. The space, while designed usefully, is small and can feel very cramped when getting ready for dinners or other events your sailing might have.

Related Post: What is the best Disney Cruise ship for Adults?

Best Disney Cruise Rooms FAQ

Q: Which is the Best Deck to stay on a Disney Wish Cruise Ship?

A: If you’re not staying in a Concierge-level stateroom, the best deck to stay on Disney Wish  is deck 9. On this deck, you will be only 2 decks below the main dining areas and pools. You could stay on deck 10 which is directly below the main amenity deck 11. But book your room with caution! If you stay directly under high-traffic areas, there is a chance you can hear people running around or the Crew Members preparing the restaurants at odd hours. 

Q: Which side of the Disney Cruise Ship to stay on?

A: This is up to you! There is no “bad side” of a Disney ship nor does it change the price you pay. The biggest difference in what side of the ship you stay on is what view you want to have while docked at ports of call. If you want the potential to see beaches and other ships, I recommend booking a room on the starboard (right) side of the ship. But if you’d like to be able to watch people running to the ship at the very last minute, a room on the port (left) side will be best for you.

Q: What is the Best Part of the Ship to stay on Disney Wish?

A: For all cruisers, but especially if it’s your first time sailing or you are prone to seasickness, the best location on Disney Cruise ship is to stay in mid or the middle of the ship. This is where you will feel less of the ship’s movement and more stability as you sail to your destinations. However, I have stayed in both the Mid and Aft (back) of the ship and had a better experience in the back!

Q: What is the most Luxurious Stateroom in Disney  Cruise Ship?

A: By far the most luxurious stateroom on a Disney ship is the Tower Suite on the Disney Wish and soon-to-sail Disney Treasure. This stateroom is a first of its kind and is a full two-deck room in the ship’s forward tunnel. On the Disney Wish, the room is themed to the animated film Moana . While on the soon-to-sail Disney Treasure, it is going to be EPCOT-themed! This will mark the first room themed after one of the Disney Theme Parks! We can’t wait to see this new ship and all it has to offer so make sure to check back for more updates!

When is The Best Time to Visit Disney World?

Our  Disney  World Crowd Calendar  is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices, and average temperature. We also break down   the best time to visit Disney World   based on specific times of the year and special events.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Disney World Trip?

Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Be sure to speak with a   Disney World Travel Agent  for the most recent deals and promotions. The Park Prodigy will provide a  Free Quote  for all  Disney World Vacation Packages .  The Park Prodigy can also help you save up to $20 per ticket when purchasing your   Walt Disney World Tickets ,  and we offer promotional discounts for special events such as   Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Tickets   and  Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets .

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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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Disney Wish Stateroom 13000 Tour – Princess Aurora Royal Suite

The Disney Wish features a pair of 2-story concierge Royal Suites on deck 13 forward. Each of the 1,759 sq. ft suites can accommodate up to 6 guests, and feature a private verandah with whirlpool hot tub. In this article, we are going to take a closer look at the Princess Aurora Royal Suite.

The 2-story Royal Suites aboard the Disney Wish 13000 and 13500 offer guests 2 main bedrooms each with a king sized bed and walk in closets. A large living area which can expand the sleeping capacity to 6 with the use of the convertible queen sofa. There are 3 full bathrooms, an open dining room with a pantry and wetter stocked with water and sodas.

Upon entering the room, you are welcomed into a foyer with a spiral staircase leading to the second story and a pantry area with wet bar. As you move into the suite, you have a common area. The space is open with one side a dining table and the other side a sitting area. The sitting area doubles as a sleeping area with the couch converting to a queen bed. The entire suite features floor to ceiling windows for a view out over the bow.

Off the dining area, is the first floor bedroom with a king sized bed, and bathroom.

The spiral staircase leads to the second bedroom with king sized bed, an bathroom. The second story bedroom also offers guests a view out over the bow.

The bathroom attached to the second story bedroom features a shower and bathtub overlooking the port side of the ship with floor to ceiling windows… However, with a click of a switch a privacy mode can be activated thank to the electronic privacy glass panels.

Personally, I think the private verandah is the best aspect of the Royal Suites on the Disney Wish. Guests can access the private outdoor space from the common area or the bedroom on the first floor. There are loungers, a table, and a whirlpool hottub.

Oh wait, there is one other aspect that makes this verandah unique… There is direct access to the concierge sundeck area.

And the balcony has its own entrance to the concierge outdoor bar! pic.twitter.com/bDSip8CuqB — CHRIS in the Concierge Lounge (@CHRIS_MAGIC_DCL) September 26, 2022

I placed the video tour of the stateroom at the end because the footage is a bit shaky since I did not have my DJI OM 5 gimbal with me at the time of the suite tour. I apologize in advance if you get motion sickness from watching.

Have you stayed in either Royal Suite aboard the Disney Wish, what did you think about it? Do you have a stateroom review to share? You can submit your own stateroom review. Start by searching for your stateroom on  this page , then look for the link titled  Submit your own stateroom review .

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3 Replies to “Disney Wish Stateroom 13000 Tour – Princess Aurora Royal Suite”

This is so gorgeous! Definitely feels more like a luxury hotel than a stateroom. The dark wood and forest theme of the Briar Rose suite is pretty, but this is on a whole other level. Is there a door on the balcony that provides the access to the concierge sundeck? Just trying to imagine it in my head!???? -Lindsey

Yes, you can enter the concierge sundeck. There is an embedded tweet with a video going from the verandah to the sundeck.

So fun! Thank you!!

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Disney Cruise Rooms: How to Choose the Perfect Stateroom

Jill Robbins

Suppose you’re considering a Disney Cruise for your next family vacation. In that case, you’ve probably clicked around a bit on Disney Cruise Line’s website to find the perfect ship and route that aligns with when you want to go on the ultimate Disney vacation.

Perhaps you’ve made it to stateroom selection, and now you’re stuck. What to choose? Choices can be intimidating and confusing, especially when you’re making decisions about high-dollar vacations, and yes, Disney Cruises are among the most expensive cruise vacations out there. How do you decide what’s the best stateroom – or staterooms – for your travel party? Do you go cheap and put the savings into another part of your vacation, or do you play that YOLO card and splurge on the most expensive?

Only you can decide how much money you’re willing to part with, but hopefully, I can make the decision-making process a little easier by breaking down the different Disney Cruise staterooms.

I’ve sailed on four of the five Disney Cruise Line vessels : The Disney Magic , the Disney Wonder , the Disney Dream , and the new  Disney Wish . My family is booked on the Disney Fantasy  for spring break 2024, bringing us to what’s known in Disney Cruise Line circles as a Grand Slam.

We’ve booked a variety of cabins, from the least expensive inside stateroom to a concierge 1-bedroom suite. I prefer concierge – because of course I do – but our budget doesn’t allow us to drop that kind of money every time we go on a cruise. I’ve found something to love about all the Disney Cruise Line staterooms we’ve stayed in, so let’s take a dive into the different room types.

About the 10 Different Categories of Staterooms

Disney uses numeric categories to classify their staterooms. It can be confusing for newbies who read cruise stateroom reviews to try and decipher what “Category 1A or Category 7 means. I’ll provide a brief key below for reference:

• 1A – Royal Suite
• 1B – Concierge 2-bedroom Suite With Verandah
• 2A or 2B (there’s some variation between ships) – Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite With Verandah
• 3A – Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah
• 4 – Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• 5 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah
• 6 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah (Undersized, Obstructed View, or White Wall)
• 7 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Navigator’s Verandah
• 8- Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom
• 9 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
• 10 – Deluxe Inside Stateroom
• 11 – Standard Inside Staterooms

Essentially, the lower the category number, the more expensive the stateroom. When you’re on the Disney Cruise website browsing rooms, you’ll see the square footage listed, which includes the bathroom space as well as the verandah.

Concierge Rooms

Concierge rooms are not only nicer, more spacious rooms with more amenities but there are also extended services that go along with the extra room. Concierge services include shoreside services, such as assistance with booking shore excursions and onboard activities. Concierge guests also get an early booking window to get their first pick of activities and coveted extras like cabanas at Castaway Cay.

Concierge guests also get access to the ship’s Concierge Lounge. Lounge perks include private sundecks, near round-the-clock access to nibbles, bottled sodas, bottled water, juices, and specialty coffees, and an open bar in the evenings.

Concierge Royal Suite

Each ship has at least one Royal Suite. These luxe accommodations sleep six and have separate living areas and dining areas, and private hot tubs. The newest Royal Suites on the Disney Wish  are Sleeping Beauty-themed. If you want the highest of high-end and are prepared to pay the price, these suites are the ultimate experience on board a Disney Cruise.

I recommend booking with a travel agent who can help you navigate the availability of these suites. Since they’re in limited numbers, they tend to book up fast, so if you’ve got your heart set on staying in a Royal Suite, a travel agent has a better view of availability across the fleet.

One and Two-Bedroom Suites

These suites offer space to spread out at a more affordable price than the Royal Suite, although affordable is a relative term when it comes to concierge staterooms.

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My family and I stayed in a one-bedroom suite on the Disney Dream,  and we enjoyed the extra space and privacy. The king-sized bed had pocket doors that separated our sleeping space from the rest of the room, and we had two full baths, one with an oversized bathtub. Our kids slept on a pullout couch and a Murphy bed in the living room.

Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah

The Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah is the least expensive concierge room. The room is very similar to a non-concierge oceanview stateroom with a verandah and is essentially a category 4 or 5 stateroom with concierge room decor and amenities and access to concierge services, such as the lounge and pre-arrival assistance. If you want the white glove VIP service but don’t need a bunch of extra room, this is the way to go.

Oceanview Staterooms

If you want to see the water from your stateroom, Oceanview is the stateroom for you. There are several categories to choose from here. The big decision to make is whether or not you want a balcony, AKA verandah. If you decide to go with a verandah, there are some nuances regarding views so if unobstructed ocean views are a must, make sure you’re reading carefully when you book or specifying exactly what you want when you talk to your travel agent.

Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms and Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom

When it comes to Disney Cruise Line staterooms, the word “family” is going to mean a larger room that sleeps more people.

Think of the oceanview as the middle-of-the-road choice between a room with a verandah and an inside room. The rooms have porthole windows where you can see outside and get that natural light. The oceanview stateroom is more money than the inside staterooms but not as costly as the verandah or concierge rooms, so, if you want to land somewhere between those two options, this can be a good choice.

The oceanview stateroom may also be a good compromise for parents of young children. Sometimes parents have the worry that their little ones are going to try and climb the balcony and fall overboard, so the oceanview sans balcony eliminates that situation.

The verandah staterooms do have high locks on the doors to the balcony, though, so it’s easy for parents to manage, safety-wise.

The balconies are about 45 square feet – not huge, but large enough for three to four people to comfortably stand on to look out. There are two chairs and a small table, quite comfortable to sit in and enjoy a drink or your morning coffee.

Oceanview Staterooms With Verandah

As you can see from the list above, there are many variations and multiple categories listed for rooms with a private verandah. The difference between the verandahs in Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah and Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah is going to be the size of the stateroom and the number of people it can sleep, five versus four people. Categories 4 and 5 have the same type of unobstructed verandah.

When you get into categories 6, 7, and 8 on Disney Cruise ships, you get smaller verandahs, potential obstructions, or a white wall verandah. Most of the verandahs are acrylic, where you can see ocean views even while seated. A Navigator’s Verandah is a mostly enclosed verandah that has a large, circular hole for viewing. The smaller or obstructed view verandahs will be priced lower than categories 4 and 5. The differences are very minor, so if you have an opportunity to save or your selection of verandah rooms is limited, consider how much time you’ll spend on the verandah and decide from there.

Inside Staterooms

Inside staterooms are the cheapest staterooms. Depending on availability, you’ll be able to choose from a standard inside stateroom and a deluxe inside stateroom.

Inside staterooms are exactly that – inside. There’s no porthole window or balcony to let in the natural light or ocean breezes.

Deluxe Inside Stateroom Vs. Standard Inside Stateroom

The big difference between standard and deluxe is that the deluxe has a split bathroom. The split bathroom means a toilet and vanity separate from the shower and second sink. It’s a great feature and allows someone to be in the shower without holding someone up if they need to use the toilet. The extra square footage in the deluxe – about 50 feet – is all the split bathroom.

We stayed in a deluxe inside stateroom on the Disney Magic . We initially booked the standard inside stateroom, but Disney upgraded us shortly before we left for the port, and we appreciated the extra space in the bathroom. Otherwise, I thought the inside cabin was just fine. I thought I would miss the verandah but didn’t. The dark cabin was great for sleeping. Also, many of the inside staterooms are on the lower decks. When we were in an inside stateroom on Deck 2, catching the stairs and bypassing the crowded elevators was easy.

Inside staterooms on the Disney Fantasy  and Disney Dream have a virtual porthole, which is a digital screen that shows real-time views of the ship’s exterior with the occasional visit from a Disney character. You can turn off the virtual porthole if you choose.

Standard In-Room Amenities

The Inside and Oceanview staterooms are all very similar, and the main differences between the stateroom categories are verandahs and split bathrooms versus single bathrooms. Regarding the available beds and storage space, there’s not much difference between non-concierge rooms.

The rooms typically sleep four, with a few sleeping five, so larger families or groups may want to consider adjoining cabins if not comfortable splitting up. When you enter the room, you’ll see a queen bed, a couch, a coffee table, and a combination desk/storage unit. There’s a curtain divider guests can use to close the bed off from the rest of the stateroom.

The couch converts into a bed, and there’s an additional bed housed in the ceiling. The stateroom attendant will convert the couch into a bed and handle the pull-down bed during nightly turndown service. Although the quarters are pretty close, this setup does well for a family of four, with the kids sleeping on the bunk beds and the parents sleeping on the queen bed. The curtain provides a small amount of privacy.

Staterooms have a small flatscreen TV that’s mounted on a swivel so they can be positioned to be seen from the bed or the couch. Although no one goes on a cruise to watch TV, there are a variety of channels that include information about the ship’s route and activities as well as Disney programming and news.

Bathroom Amenities

In addition to towels and soap, standard DCL bathroom amenities include shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, lotion, and soap. Concierge staterooms have elevated toiletries. The Disney Wish  provides bathrobes as part of the standard stateroom amenities but on the other ships, they’re only for concierge guests.

Storage Space

Storage space in a Disney Cruise Line stateroom is adequate but tight. If you have four people in a cabin, storage space is more at a premium, but unless you’re big over-packers, everyone has enough space to store their belongings.

There’s a bit of closet space – if you have a lot of hanging garments, I recommend travel hangers – and storage cubbies and drawers in the bathroom and the main part of the cabin. The under-bed area has room for suitcase storage.

Best Advice When Choosing Staterooms

Budget is going to be most people’s driving factor when choosing a stateroom. Depending on the length of the cruise, there’s usually a several thousand dollar difference between an inside stateroom and the cheapest concierge stateroom.

Cruise ships are so filled with activities and other things to do, and guests aren’t meant to spend a ton of time in their stateroom, so don’t think you’ll be shortchanging your experience if you book an inside stateroom. If you have a larger budget and prioritize that extra level of elevated service, concierge is a fun splurge.

I also recommend you look at a deck plan before you lock in a stateroom to see where you’ll be in relation to everything else on the ship. If your cabin is directly below the sun deck, you might be woken early by the sounds of the deck crew setting up the chairs for the day. If your cabin is near the elevators, you might hear lots of foot traffic, although the upside is that being near the elevators means it’s faster and easier to get around the ship.

Midship staterooms on a high deck are generally the most stable, so this might be a necessary choice if you’re prone to seasickness.

Travel Agents Can Be Excellent Advisors

When it comes to choosing a stateroom, a travel agent can be a great resource, especially if you’re a first-time cruiser. They’re familiar with the ships, deck plans, and what the passengers want and need, even when the passengers may not fully know.

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I spent $10,000 on my family's 5-night Disney Cruise. From a 614-square-foot suite with 2 bathrooms to on-call concierges, here's what it was like.

• My family of four spent $10,000 to stay in a concierge room on a five-night Disney Dream cruise.
• We received free food and drinks, priority booking status, exclusive lounge access, and more.
• It was totally worth it for us and even though it was so expensive we'd consider doing it again. 

I've always wanted to sail concierge and decided to take the plunge on our fall 2022 cruise on the Disney Dream.

On past Disney cruises, we've stayed in verandah (balcony) staterooms. Our last cruise was an inside stateroom , one of the cheapest cabins Disney offers. 

But on our recent five-night sailing on the Disney Dream, my family of four booked a one-bedroom concierge stateroom for $10,000.

We sailed in late September, which is generally a less expensive time of year to cruise to the Bahamas or the Caribbean. The lower price is likely also because a lot of kids are in school at this time and it's in the middle of hurricane season.

The long list of things we loved about concierge started with our port arrival.

All other passengers are assigned a port arrival time based on their Castaway Club level, how quickly they checked in online once their check-in window opened, or a combination of both.

As concierge guests, our arrival window was any time between 11:00 a.m. and 3:45 p.m. We opted for earlier to maximize our time on the ship . We even had a separate concierge waiting area at the port.

Once on board, we were escorted to a special welcome luncheon that included free alcohol and other beverages we'd normally incur an extra charge for, like smoothies, mocktails, and specialty coffees. 

During the luncheon, one of the concierge hosts visited our table to ask if had questions or if we wanted to make any changes to our schedule.

I booked a 614-square-foot one-bedroom concierge stateroom that sleeps five.

We had a bedroom, full bathroom with a jetted tub, an additional three-quarters bath, a dining table with four chairs, a living room with a sofa and two wing chairs, a desk, and an extended verandah with seating for four.

There were also three closets and tons of storage space in the bathroom and bed (drawers were built into the frame). 

Our larger, more luxurious stateroom was a fun splurge.

You're definitely experiencing some luxury in concierge. 

Our bed linens were Frette and felt fantastic. I loved the sheets so much that I looked them up online and found a set of queen sheets from the brand can cost over $500. 

The sofa folded out into a bed and there was also a Murphy bed.

There were also three pocket doors around the queen bed. I loved that my husband and I had our own space and that we had an extra three-quarters bath for our boys. 

The doors gave my husband and me some privacy but there was little-to-no noise buffer. My kids were on the sleeper sofa talking very quietly and I could hear them clearly.

Still, the space was incredible . We even had plenty of room to move around while the sofa bed and the Murphy bed were down. 

I also loved the decor, which seemed like an upgrade from the usual nautical style in Disney staterooms.

Concierge staterooms have a palette of cream, turquoise, and brown. The artwork seemed nautically themed with a European flair.

As an experienced Disney cruiser, I appreciated the elevated vibe all the way around.

The bathrooms had some enhanced amenities.

The master bathroom had a double sink and regular power outlets that support a hair dryer and whatever else you'd want to plug in.

In my experience, many other Disney Cruise Line staterooms have a bathroom power outlet that will only support a shaver. 

Upgraded Elemis toiletries were provided in both bathrooms.

We received shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and body wash. We also had bar soap and gel hand sanitizer in the master bath as well as a flower-shaped sponge with soap already added to it.

Our room also had cotton swabs, hand sanitizer, and even a pad to set a hot hairstyling appliance on.

There were even real bath mats in the master bathroom instead of just the standard bath sheet that most hotels and staterooms provide for you to step on after you get out of the tub or shower.

Although no one goes on a Disney Cruise to watch TV, our stateroom had three screens.

The 24/7 availability of Disney cartoons and animated classics on the televisions was really fun. We could also watch the ship's position and broadcasts with helpful information from the cruise director each day. 

There were flat-screen TVs larger than what you'll find in a regular stateroom in the bedroom and living room. There was also a screen built into the mirror of the master bathroom.

At one point, I watched "The Aristocats" while drying my hair. 

For me, one of the best perks of concierge was access to the lounge just steps from our stateroom.

The lounge was an exclusive haven where we could hang out and grab refreshments throughout the day.

It's open from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. every day and there was always at least one host present who could answer questions and make or cancel reservations.

The concierge station had a fancy coffee machine, too.

Some of the complimentary drinks included bottled water, sodas, juices, and the best coffee on the ship.

I think Disney's free cruise coffee is usually pretty bad so I appreciated being able to have the good stuff whenever I wanted it.

The concierge area also had an open bar from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. each night.

The bar had high-quality wines and liquors, and bartenders could make just about any drink you wanted, except frozen ones.

Food offerings ranged from sweets (cookies, small dessert bites) to savory eats (chilled shrimp, sandwiches). The buffet changed every three hours.

We loved having a dedicated concierge team, which felt like having our own personal assistants.

The concierge team can take care of anything you'd ordinarily stand in line for or go looking for. For example, our itinerary changed due to weather and our concierge hosts helped make sure our adjusted schedules were what we wanted.

When it came time to leave the ship, we even had the option of being escorted off by the concierge staff, bypassing long lines to disembark.

They could also sometimes secure us hard-to-get reservations, such as cabanas on Disney's Castaway Cay port or adult dining at Palo or Remy.

Concierge guests also receive early access to the shows in the Walt Disney Theater.

We were escorted into the theater via backstage elevator before showtime to get the first pick of seats. We also didn't even have to stand in line for popcorn — it was handed to us when we arrived.

The popular Broadway-quality shows fill up fast on full cruises, especially seats in the first few rows. The early access not only ensured we'd sit where we wanted but also enhanced that white-glove experience concierge brings.

There's also a private sundeck for concierge guests.

I spent part of one morning relaxing on the sun deck with a book and I had the space mostly to myself. An attendant came by and offered an ice-cold towel at one point, which I loved. 

The private deck has hot tubs and amenities for concierge guests only.

We had lots of comfortable, shaded seating, a hot tub, nicer towels than you'll find on the main pool deck, a selection of cold drinks, and sunscreen.

I loved that we mostly had this hot tub all to ourselves. The hot tubs on other Disney Cruise decks are usually crowded , especially on sea days.

Honestly, I feel like there were way too many perks to mention.

We also received access to shoe-shine service and Wi-Fi.

Continental breakfast room service is included in the price of all Disney Cruises but, as concierge guests, we could order a hot breakfast with omelets and pancakes from the room-service menu.

Concierge guests also get priority booking before the ship sets sail.

Certain onboard activities (alcohol-tasting seminars, spa appointments, adult dining) and port excursions open up for booking prior to the cruise.

The booking window for concierge guests opens before the other passengers get to look at availability, which means you're at the top of the list for hard-to-book activities. 

Priority booking came in handy for securing a cabana at one of the stops.

Cabanas at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island in the Bahamas, are notoriously difficult to snag. I requested one as soon as our booking window opened and I was put on a waiting list.

Our number eventually came up and we were able to book a cabana for an additional fee.

I noticed most of the people on the beach where the cabanas are located were other concierge passengers so it made me think it would've been more difficult — maybe even impossible — to book a cabana if we'd not been concierge. 

Overall, we have zero regrets and we were happy with our choice to book concierge.

Did our experience with concierge spoil us forever? Yes and no.

I can't afford to book concierge on every future cruise and part of me wishes I didn't know what I was missing. I was perfectly happy in an inside stateroom and I'm sure I would be again. 

Still, our family's enjoyment made the high cost worth it.

If you tally up every drink, smoothie, and bucket of popcorn and expect it to come close to the difference between non-concierge and concierge, it won't. That said, we certainly did enjoy the open bar.  

It wasn't one single thing that stood out to make concierge on the Disney Cruise exceptional but rather the combination of everything working together to elevate our experience . We felt truly special.

We'd consider splurging again, though it's worth noting concierge prices vary by itinerary and cruise length. If you want to spring for the experience, it's worth it to do some research and make sure you'll actually be taking advantage of the perks. 

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Disney Magic cabins and suites

Disney magic staterooms review, floor plans, photos.

Disney Magic cabins and suites review at CruiseMapper provides detailed information on cruise accommodations , including floor plans, photos, room types and categories, cabin sizes, furniture details and included by Disney Cruise Line en-suite amenities and services.

The Disney Magic cruise ship cabins page is conveniently interlinked with its deck plans showing deck layouts combined with a legend and review of all onboard venues.

Concierge Royal Suite

Layout (floor plan).

Disney Magic's Royal Suites are named "Walter E. Disney" (8030, portside), and "Roy O. Disney" (8530, starboard).

Concierge 2-Bedroom Suite

Concierge 1-bedroom suite, deluxe family balcony cabin, deluxe balcony cabin, navigator cove balcony cabin, deluxe oceanview cabin, deluxe inside cabin, standard interior cabin, disney magic cabins review.

Of all Disney Magic cruise ship cabins, 71% are outside (including 22 Suites, 332 Balcony rooms, 237 Oceanview), and 256 are Inside (of which 96 are Deluxe). The number of all cabin categories is 25, including the "Guaranteed" categories VGT-Balcony, OGT-Oceanview, and IGT-Inside.

Follows the review of MS Disney Magic staterooms as furniture, amenities and included (complimentary) services:

All Disney Magic rooms have Queen-size bed (ample under-bed storage space, Posturepedic Sealy mattresses, deluxe bedding sets /Egyptian cotton linens), wardrobe, split bathroom (vanity, sink, WC, bathtub, shower, hairdryer), H20+ spa products (shampoo, conditioner, moisturizing body butter), living area (sofa, desk, curtain divider), 22-inch smart HDTV, electronic safe box (in the closet), direct-dial phone (voice mail), mirror, individual air-conditioning.

All Disney Magic Suites enjoy the following perks (bonus amenities and services): Disney themed artworks, upgraded bath products, robes/slippers), luxury bedding sets, pillow menu, daily food (canapes, fruits), iPod station, console gaming table, BlueRay/DVD /CD player (media library), board games, priority services (check-in, Disney Magic cruise itinerary ports of call tendering), free Internet, pre-dinner cocktails. Suite passengers also enjoy concierge services: (Disney cruise shore excursions booking, specialty dining-nursery-spa reservations, special requests assistance, private parties/celebrations planning, in-room dining (all main dining room restaurants menus).

All balcony rooms feature a private veranda with sliding doors and kid-proof locks, deck furniture (2 chairs, 1 small table). Family Verandah/balcony cabins have 1 queen or 2 twin beds (convertible) and split bathroom. Oceanview cabins are with Porthole Window views.

Royal Suites have a master bedroom (plus hidden in the wall double pull-down and single pull-down bed), master bathroom (dual sinks, closet, whirlpool bathtub), large living room, dining area (pantry, wet bar), guest bathroom (shower, sink, WC), floor-ceiling windows, wrap-around private balcony (deck furniture, whirlpool bathtub).

MS Disney Magic cabins tips

On Deck 5 are located 6 staterooms (plus 2 on Deck 6) that are oceanview but can be booked as "Category 10 inside". Their views are from obstructed porthole windows. The obstructed view is by the canisters holding liferafts. Deck 5's "Secret Porthole cabins" are located near the "Flounder’s Reef Nursery" and "Buena Vista Theater". These staterooms also benefit less foot traffic and noises. For comparison, most Category 10 cabins are without windows and located on lower decks (many under nightclubs). Of Deck 5's "Secret Porthole cabins", 2 are connecting room pairs - great for families of 5, and affordable alternative to Category 4. "Secret Porthole cabins" numbers are 6006 (less obstructed), 6506 (less obstructed), 5020, 5520, 5022, 5024 (connecting, most obstructed), 5522, 5524 (connecting, most obstructed).

"Secret Balcony cabins" (aft on decks 6 and 7) are in Category 7A but unlike Category 7A's enclosed "navigator’s veranda" they have regular (step-out) balcony. These staterooms have a slightly obstructed view due to deck location (at ship's very end). These secret cabins numbers are 6134, 6634, 7120, 7620.

"Connecting Balcony cabins" are most adjacent balcony staterooms (excepting those with steel dividers). These balconies can be connected by folding back their dividing panels. To connect these balconies, contact your cabin attendant; to unlock the divider. Once opened, these pairs of rooms share a long (double) balcony. If you have group-booked cabins, you can unlock all dividers and make a very long one.

Disney Magic ship's smallest "cabins for families of 5" are Category 4 "Deluxe Family Oceanview" (with balcony). However, the cheapest option is to book 2 connecting cabins - Category 9 ("Deluxe Oceanview") or Category 10 ("Deluxe Inside"). The combined (connecting cabin) price is ~2/3 to 3/4 lower (then 1x Family Oceanview). The combined size is ~40% larger, and there are 2x full bathrooms (no balcony though). If the balcony is a must, book 1x Category 6 "Deluxe Oceanview" or 1x Category 7 ("Navigator’s Verandah") combined with 1x cabin in categories 9, 10 or 11. All these options are cheaper, larger, more privacy, 2 full bathrooms. Still, these rooms are not connecting. The "connecting" option is booking 2x Category 5 staterooms.

For families of 6+, the choices are "2-Bedroom Suite" or "Royal Suite" (max capacity 7 persons). However, much cheaper is to book 2 staterooms than 1 suite.

"Cabin upgrade" is an option when you book a low-priced "guarantee" category and hope for a category upgrade. Booking “guarantee” stateroom means you get at least this category, but you're not assigned to a specific cabin, Disney just guarantees you a room (at this category rate) and waits to see how the bookings go. As most people book the cheapest cabins, they often sell out. In such cases, Disney may offer cabin upgrades to passengers with first booked lower fare, thus making cheaper cabins available for new customers. You can also request a cabin upgrade upon check-in (at the cruise terminal). Depending on bookings, Disney sometimes upgrades cabins for a fee, but it's usually less expensive than if that category was originally booked.

This page is integrated with CruiseMapper's  Disney Cruise Line secrets, tips, and tricks .

Disney Magic cabin and suite plans are property of Disney Cruise Line . All floor plans are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

How much does a Disney cruise really cost?

Editor's Note

Disney Cruise Line is known for its family-friendly cruises complete with all of your favorite Disney characters, impeccable dining, exciting entertainment and thrilling ports of call. With everything that's included on the sailings, you might be wondering how much a Disney cruise costs — and if you can afford one.

Cruises with Mickey Mouse and his pals range in price depending on many factors such as the embarkation port and destination, departure date, length of the cruise and cabin type you book. No matter which cruise you book, it will be pricey, like any Disney vacation. You'll have to determine what value you put on experiencing the "magic" of Disney.

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

To me, it's worth a lot. I've experienced all five ships in the Disney fleet and have sailed seven times to destinations around the Caribbean and the Mediterranean .

Here, I'm sharing how much a Disney cruise costs per ship and itinerary, any extras that are worth the additional fees and how to save money on a Disney cruise.

How much does it cost to go on a Disney cruise?

Let's be honest: A cruise on any Disney ship isn't cheap. Factors like cabin type and category, sail date, destination, length of cruise, traveling party size and if you're on a themed cruise can impact the overall cost. If you're trying to keep your costs lower, your best option is to pick a cruise on an older ship (Disney Wonder, Disney Magic, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy) or pick a shorter cruise length.

The cheapest Disney cruise we found cost $1,000 for an inside cabin for two people on a two-night sailing on Disney Wonder in Australia. That's $250 per person per night.

If you're looking for a cheap Caribbean or Bahamian sailing, consider a three-night Bahamas cruise on Disney Magic starting at $1,500 for an inside cabin for two people. This also equates to $250 per person per day. Add in drinks, specialty dining, souvenirs and other expenses, and you can expect to spend around $2,500 in total.

On a recent sailing on the Disney Dream , my family of three and I spent five nights at sea in a balcony room and paid a grand total of $4,514.06. This total included everything from the cruise fare and pre-night hotel stay to parking and spa services.

Some examples of starting prices for each ship and its major itineraries for an inside cabin or a balcony cabin are listed below so you can get a sense of pricing across the fleet. Prices are based on double occupancy.

Disney Magic

One- to three-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $1,500 to $2,500; balcony cabins, $1,900 to $3,300 Four-night Caribbean and Bahamas: inside cabins, $1,800 to $3,200; balcony cabins, $2,300 to $4,000 Five- to six-night Caribbean and Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,200 to $4,400; balcony cabins, $3,000 to $6,600 Seven-night Caribbean: inside cabins, $2,700 to $3,300; balcony cabins, $3,800 to $4,900

Disney Wonder

Two- to three-night Australia: inside cabins, $1,000 to $2,100; balcony cabins, $1,200 to $2,800 Four-night Australia: inside cabins, $1,700 to $3,000; balcony cabins, $2,200 to $4,000 Seven-night Alaska: inside cabins, $3,300 to $5,000; balcony cabins, $5,900 to $10,500

Disney Dream

Three-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $1,700 to $2,300; balcony cabins, $2,000 to $2,600 Four-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,100 to $3,500; balcony cabins, $2,500 to $4,000 Five-night Caribbean: inside cabins, $2,800 to $4,400; balcony cabins, $3,100 to $5,000 Five-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,700 to $4,000; balcony cabins, $3,200 to $4,600 Seven-night Europe and Mediterranean: inside cabins $4,400 to $6,800; balcony cabins, $5,200 to $9,500

Disney Fantasy

Four-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,100 to $3,000; balcony cabins, $2,400 to $3,400 Five- to six-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,700 to $4,400; balcony cabins, $3,200 to $4,900 Seven-night Caribbean: inside cabins, $3,300 to $5,700; balcony cabins, $3,900 to $7,000

Disney Wish

Three-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,000 to $3,000; balcony cabins, $2,500 to $3,500 Four-night Bahamas: inside cabins, $2,600 to $4,600; balcony cabins, $3,000 to $5,600

Disney Treasure

The maiden voyage is set for Dec. 21, 2024.

Seven-night Caribbean: inside cabins, $4,200 to $5,800; balcony cabins, $5,200 to $7,000

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

Where do Disney cruises sail from?

Disney Cruises depart from 15 different ports around the world, but the major ones to think about from the U.S. include:

• Fort Lauderdale
• Port Canaveral, Florida
• Galveston, Texas
• New Orleans

The major international ports Disney Cruise Line sets sail from include:

• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
• Melbourne, Australia
• Southampton, England
• Brisbane, Australia
• Vancouver (British Columbia), Canada

Depending on the cruise you pick, getting to and from the home port can be easy or take a little longer — and that can impact the total cost of your Disney cruise.

For instance, many people drive to Fort Lauderdale or Port Canaveral if they already live in the southern U.S. Driving can save money versus flying, and you might not have to stay in a pre-cruise hotel if you can drive right to the port.

You will have to pay to park at the port or at a third-party parking lot. While the off-site parking lots are often cheaper, you will need to think about how to get to and from the ship, tipping the porter or driver, plus the added time to get from your car to the ship.

On the other hand, if you are taking a cruise from an international destination or flying to a domestic home port, your costs automatically go up because of flights for your family, a pre-cruise hotel, meals before the sailing, and transportation to the ship and back to the airport.

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

What's included in the price of a Disney cruise?

You might pay a lot for a Disney cruise, but you get a lot for your money. The cost of a Disney cruise covers your onboard dining and most nonalcoholic drinks, an abundance of entertainment for kids and adults, onboard activities and transportation between cruise ports. Even most entertainment and food on Disney's private island Castaway Cay (and upcoming private island destination Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point) is part of the fare.

Entertainment

Most of the entertainment on board is included in the overall cost of your sailing. On your cruise, you can experience Broadway-quality shows inside the Walt Disney Theater, watch first-run movies from Disney's production companies (like Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars), listen to live music and participate in game shows in the adults-only lounges. Most itineraries feature a deck party with a fireworks show.

Kids can meet and play with their favorite Disney characters and participate in activities like karaoke. Family-friendly sun decks with pools, waterslides, splash zones and wading pools are also included in the cost.

Disney Cruise Line is known for its rotational dining evening dinner service. Families rotate through three onboard restaurants throughout the sailing, and your service team moves with you. Each of the rotational dining options is included in your cruise fare. One of the restaurants will be open for drop-in, sit-down meals during breakfast and lunch as well. Complimentary room service is available 24 hours a day.

On the upper decks, quick-service food stations, soft-serve ice cream and a buffet are available. Every Disney cruise also includes unlimited coffee, tea and soda.

Accommodations

Almost every cabin across the Disney fleet features Disney's distinctive split bathroom concept. One of the bathrooms has a vanity, sink and tub-shower, plus another bathroom with a vanity, sink and toilet. Each room also has a small refrigerator, safe and hair dryer.

Every child ages 3 to 17 will have access to Disney's kids clubs on board. Youngsters ages 3-10 can enjoy Disney's Oceaneer Club and Disney's Oceaneer Lab . Tweens ages 11-14 have access to Edge, and teens ages 14-17 can chill out in Vibe.

Each kids club has dedicated counselors and a host of activities every day. The best way to see the list of activities is to download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app and scroll through the daily agenda. You can flag activities your kids want to attend, so you can get to the kids clubs before they start.

Adult-exclusive activities

Disney cruises are packed with family-friendly programming, but adults can find spaces and events geared just for them in the adult-only nightclubs and lounges on board. Live music, interactive games and shows are only some of the nightly activities.

Additionally, adults have a dedicated pool and hot tub area that includes a bar and coffee shop. (Drinks cost extra, but access is free). For those looking to stay fit while onboard, access to the fitness center is also included.

Castaway Cay

On most Bahamas and Caribbean sailings, you'll stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay . At the island, your family can enjoy the family beach or adult-exclusive beach (for those 18 and older).

Use of towels, beach chairs and shade umbrellas are complimentary, as are waterslides and splash zones. Live music and character appearances take place around the island. Kids and teen club activities are available on Castaway Cay — again, at no extra charge. Runners can participate in the Castaway Cay 5K and get a finisher medal.

When it's time to eat, three spots serve an included barbecue lunch, complete with soft-serve ice cream. Coffee, tea and fountain drinks are also included at Castaway Cay.

To get around the island, you can walk or use the complimentary trams.

Related: Are cruises all-inclusive? What's actually included in your cruise fare

Are there any extra Disney costs?

Even though many activities, dining options and entertainment are included in the cost of your cruise, you will find things to pay extra for on a Disney cruise. These may or may not be worth it for your family, depending on your budget and interests. Below is a list of things not included in your overall cruise fare.

Some of the cutest Disney activities are also ones that cost extra. Kids who want more time with the Disney characters might be interested in the Royal Court Royal Tea — a tea party with characters for kids ages 3 to 12. According to planDisney (Disney's online resource for vacation-planning tips) , the cost is $220 per child and $69 for anyone 13 and up. Each tea party includes a selection of tea and a two-course meal; every child gets an assortment of gifts.

Kids can also play dress-up and get a full regal or pirate (only available on Pirate Party Nights) makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, found on every Disney ship. Depending on the package you booked for your child, expect to pay $100 to $450 for each makeover.

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy both have a virtual sports simulator that requires a reservation and a fee. You can play various sports, from football to golf, for either 30- or 60-minute time blocks. Cost varies based on time, sport and number of people playing.

Specialty dining and cocktails

Four specialty dining restaurants are offered across the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Exclusive to Disney Wish (and coming soon to Disney Treasure ) are Enchante and Palo Steakhouse. Expect to pay $60 to $205 plus an 18% auto-gratuity for a meal at Enchante; Palo Steakhouse is $50 for a prix-fixe meal, but an a la carte menu is also available.

On the four other Disney Cruise Line ships, Palo is also $50 for prix-fixe and offers an a la carte menu. An 18% auto-gratuity is also tacked onto your bill.

On Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, Remy is also available, with the dessert experience starting at $65 without the 18% auto-gratuity, while brunch and dinner are $80 and $135 respectively, plus an additional 18% auto-gratuity.

On all ships, themed bars and lounges sling drinks. Because there's no drink package available through Disney Cruise Line, you will have to pay for each drink individually. The planDisney panel says the average drink can range from $6 to $20.

If you're looking for specialty coffee, tea or hot chocolate drinks, look for the Cove Cafe on all ships; there are also specialty counters off of the atrium on Disney Dream, Fantasy and Wish. These drinks cost anywhere from $5 to $8, depending on your order. You can also order alcoholic drinks from the coffee bars, which run the typical cocktail prices.

Outside the Walt Disney Theater or near the movie theaters on board each ship, you'll also smell the buttery goodness of freshly popped popcorn. You can buy the popcorn for an added fee to take into the shows with you. Additionally, there are some specialty popcorn buckets available for purchase on each ship; you can refill them for a discounted price every time you want to munch on the salty snack. (Specialty buckets purchased off the ships at a Disney resort or theme park are not eligible for a discounted popcorn refill.)

Additionally, each ship offers beverage-tasting seminars where you can learn how to make and taste a variety of cocktails in a given category. Seminars can range from $40 to $70 and last about an hour.

While crew gratuities on Disney Cruise Line are not included in the overall cost, some can be prepaid before you step onboard. These include gratuities to your dining room server, assistant server and head server, plus your cabin host. Disney recommends a gratuity of $14.50 per night per person, including infants and children in regular cabins. It's recommended that those in concierge cabins and suites pay $15.50, with the extra going to your cabin assistant host.

Gratuities that are not included can be paid on board. Such gratuities include anything extra you would like to give to your service team, tips on alcoholic beverages in the dining room, adult dining locations, room service and the spa. The concierge lounge team is also not included in prepaid gratuities for concierge guests, and Disney recommends $8 per night per guest.

Keep in mind that an 18% gratuity is automatically added to bar tabs across the ship and for spa services. To make it easy while on the ship, you can charge all your gratuities to your onboard account.

If you want to bring something home from your trip — whether from a port of call or from the onboard shops — you'll want to budget for that extra cost. Souvenirs off the ship can range from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars, depending on what you buy. Be prepared that some shops will only take local currency; purchases at Castaway Cay shops will be charged to your onboard account.

On the ship, easy-to-transport souvenirs included trading pins, magnets and apparel. These can range anywhere from $20 to $75. Other more expensive onboard souvenirs include jewelry, luxury brand purses and wallets, and art.

Related: 26 Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock

How do I save money on a Disney cruise?

If you're reeling from sticker shock, know you can find many ways to save money on a Disney cruise. Here are a few of my favorite money-saving tips.

Letting Disney choose your cabin can be a great way to get a deal on the cruise. These are known as guaranteed rates, and they are the cheapest fares in each category. All you have to do is pick your room type, such as inside, ocean view or balcony, and Disney picks which specific room number you get. This works best if you don't care where your room is on the ship.

If you're looking for a room upgrade , but that's not a make-it-or-break-it deal for your family, consider waiting to upgrade your room until you get to the port. If your cruise still has rooms available, you can ask at check-in about a room upgrade for a discount. The cost will be relative to the room type you originally booked and the room type you want to upgrade to. Sometimes, you can even upgrade to a concierge room or a suite, but you will need to get an early port arrival time to potentially score one of those upgrades.

Disney Cruise Line has one of the most generous alcohol policies of any big-ship cruise brand. At the start of your cruise, you can bring up to six cans of beer or two bottles of wine per person over 21 years old. Then, at each port, you can restock and bring the same alcohol allotment per person over 21 onto the ship to store in your room and enjoy. You might find that beer and wine are cheaper in port than on board — a smart way to save on your drinking expenses.

Related: Best Disney cruise ships for everyone — even Disney adults

Are Disney cruises cheaper or more expensive than other cruise lines?

Other family-friendly cruise brands include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises. While all of the family-friendly brands have pros and cons, picking the right one for your family can come down to a matter of cost. Disney is almost always the most expensive.

For example, we priced out a three-night weekend cruise departing on the same dates for Disney Wish and Royal Caribbean 's soon-to-debut Utopia of the Seas. We found that Disney was almost $500 more expensive for the same weekend, cabin type and length of sailing. Utopia of the Seas came out to $2,850.10 for two people staying in a balcony cabin, while the Disney Wish cruise, also in a balcony room, cost $3,337.20.

What Disney does best — and why many people choose to cruise with the brand — is it provides a high level of service to families, even those in the least expensive cabins. The crew on Disney ships goes above and beyond to make your vacation easy. I've seen everything from dining staff cutting kids' food and taking children to the bathroom to room hosts ensuring parents know about the parental locks on balcony doors (so kids can't just wander outside without an adult).

The extra amenities that Disney offers — such as Broadway-quality shows, character experiences and larger standard cabins — all bring the overall cruise cost up.

Disney also has a smaller fleet than all its family-friendly competitors, meaning there is less cabin inventory to sell. Plus, its ships generally carry fewer passengers. For example, Disney Wish, Disney's biggest ship, carries 4,000 people at full capacity; Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas can carry 7,600 guests at capacity. The low inventory combined with the high demand for Disney cruises means that Disney can charge higher fares and still fill ships.

Bottom line

Cruise fares with Disney can change based on factors like room type, travel party size and sailing date. The minimum price you can expect to pay for a cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas starts at $1,500 for an inside cabin for two people on Disney Magic.

Disney Cruise Line includes a variety of dining experiences (including room service), soda, character meet-and-greets and Broadway-caliber entertainment in its fares; it also allows passengers to bring alcohol on board in every port of call. For these reasons, you don't necessarily have to spend much on board to have a fantastic vacation. The cruise can be a good value depending on the extras you choose to add.

The real question is whether you want to spend more on the base cruise fare to immerse yourself in the world of Disney versus paying less for another family-friendly cruise line.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

The 7 best cruise ship suites — picked by someone who has seen them all

O ne of the biggest stories in the cruise world over the past couple of decades has been the arrival of a new generation of superlarge, superswanky cruise ship suites that are chock-full of every sort of upscale feature and amenity you could imagine. They are sights to behold.

Some of the biggest of these cruise ship suites measure 2,000 square feet or more — approaching the size of the typical American home. A handful go far beyond that.

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I haven't stayed in all of these new cruise ship suites. But over more than 25 years of writing about cruise ships, I've toured pretty much all of them. I can't think of any major cruise ship suite that I've missed other than Disney Cruise Line's new Tower Suite on Disney Wish, which I hope to get to soon.

A few of these swanky digs really stood out, and I'll profile them below in my personal list of best cruise suites.

In some cases, these are one-of-a-kind suites found on only a single vessel. In other cases, they are suites with similar sisters on multiple ships.

To be clear, this is by no means an exhaustive list. Disney fans will no doubt admonish me for not including the supersized suites on some Disney Cruise Line ships, such as the art deco-influenced Roy O. Disney Suite on Disney Fantasy. I've been in these suites, and they are certainly impressive. But I wasn't as wowed by them as I was by the suites below. And I have to cut off my list somewhere.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you definitely should avoid

Luxury lines Silversea Cruises and Seabourn also offer quite a few wonderful suites on their ships, and it's worth noting that some of the biggest suites at sea are those found on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Jewel-class vessels.

Below, you'll find my picks for the seven best suites at sea.

Regent Suite

Ship: Seven Seas Splendor (Regent Seven Seas Cruises)

Every time I think of this suite, I think of that famous scene in "Dr. Zhivago" where Comrade Kaprugina dresses down the good doctor on the size of his mansion. "There was living space for 13 families in this one house!" she scolds.

You might not be able to jam 13 families into Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' Regent Suite, but in a pinch, you probably could come close. It sprawls over an astounding 4,443 square feet — nearly twice the size of the average American home. Its opulence is like nothing you'll find anywhere else at sea (except in similar suites found on Regent's Seven Seas Explorer and the just-unveiled Seven Seas Grandeur).

Located at the front of Seven Seas Splendor , the Regent Suite is so big it stretches all the way from one side of the ship to the other, offering views in three directions. It has two massive bedroom complexes — and they really are complexes, with seemingly endless space. It also has a living room, a separate dining area and perhaps the most spectacular balcony at sea.

Related: 7 reasons you should splurge on a suite for your next cruise

Among the over-the-top things you'll find in the Regent Suite is a bed with a handmade mattress that Regent executives claim cost more than $200,000. It was handcrafted by four artisans at the renowned Hastens workshop in Koping, Sweden, using horsetail hair and flax, along with cotton and wool batting.

The Regent Suite also has a ridiculously large master bathroom, complete with its own sauna and steam room. It's big enough that it can double as a personal spa treatment room. To that end, the Regent Suite — get this — comes with its own spa therapist on call. Unlimited spa treatments are included in the cost of the suite.

Other perks of staying in the Regent Suite include first-class domestic flights to reach the ship; a personal car, driver and guide in every port; and a dedicated butler to help make arrangements on board.

The only downside to a stay? The cost. Regent charges $11,000 a day for the privilege.

Related: The 2 types of Regent ships, explained

Royal Loft Suite

Ship: Quantum of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

At 1,640 square feet, the Royal Loft Suite on Royal Caribbean 's Quantum of the Seas isn't nearly as big as the Regent Suite on Seven Seas Splendor. But it makes my list of the best cruise ship suites because it offers something the latter doesn't: views across the ship's wake through a soaring, two-deck-high glass wall.

That's right, the Royal Loft Suite on Quantum of the Seas sprawls over two decks and has a main room that is two stories high — a lavish use of space that is rare in the cruise world.

Royal Caribbean offers a Royal Loft Suite on each of its Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships, but there are some design differences among them.

My favorite of all the Royal Loft Suites is the one on Quantum of the Seas, the first vessel in Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class series. Sleeping up to six, it offers a stylish, two-deck-high living and dining space facing the complex's giant window wall, complete with such modernist touches as an Eames chair (which, being a minimalist, I adore). Among its highlights are a dry bar and a sofa that converts into a double bed.

Related: 5 reasons to turn down a cruise ship cabin upgrade

The first floor of the Royal Loft Suite is also home to a media room with a sofa that converts into a queen bed. It's a perfect hideaway for the kids, should you be traveling with a family.

Upstairs, the main bedroom is open-walled, so you can see across the living area to the sea. It is accessed via a bridge-like walkway, which I love. It's like crossing a drawbridge into your own private castle at sea.

Rounding out the complex is a spacious, 415-square-foot private balcony that has its own private whirlpool — another great place from which to look out over the water.

Balmoral Suite

Ship: Queen Mary 2 (Cunard Line)

Royal Caribbean wasn't the first cruise line to go the double-decker route when designing over-the-top cruise ship suites. A decade before the debut of Quantum of the Seas, Cunard Line wowed cruise fans with the unveiling of this two-deck-high Grand Duplex suite and a sister suite, the Sandringham, on its iconic Queen Mary 2.

Named after a castle in Scotland owned by the British royal family, the Balmoral Suite is fit for a queen with a stunning 2,249 square feet of living space.

Like Royal Caribbean's Royal Loft suites, both the Balmoral Suite and the Sandringham Suite have a sprawling living room and dining area on their ground floors and a spacious master bedroom complex on their second levels.

One thing I particularly love about the Grand Duplex suites is that their master bedrooms are reached via dramatic, curving staircases.

Another allure of the Grand Duplex suites is that they come with access to Queen Mary 2's exclusive Queens Grill restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Only open to passengers staying in the very top accommodations on the ship, this is a much more intimate, elegant and private eatery than the main Britannia restaurant where most passengers dine.

Movie buffs may recognize the restaurant, as it was heavily highlighted in the Meryl Streep movie "Let Them All Talk," which was set on Queen Mary 2 .

Owner's suite

Ship: Viking Star (Viking)

Many cruise ships have giant suites that are given the name "owner's suite." But few live up to the phrase like this one.

The owner's suite on Viking Star — Viking 's first oceangoing ship — was specifically designed to be used by Viking founder and owner Torstein Hagen when he travels on the ship, and it's full of little quirks that reflect his personal tastes.

Among them: Hagen's personal mementos, including pictures of his family, are sprinkled throughout the suite. A selection of books from Hagen's personal collection fills a bookshelf.

The Norwegian-born Hagen also had the suite built with its own private sauna with a glass wall facing the sea, something he wanted for personal use.

In all, the suite — and similar suites that were built onto more recently unveiled Viking ocean ships — sprawls over an impressive 1,448 square feet.

Located at the top of the vessel, it has a bedroom with a large bathroom complex (including that sauna), a separate living room and a dining area that seats six people.

In addition, in another twist that speaks to its real use as an owner's suite, it has its own boardroom with a long table that seats 12 people that Hagen uses for meetings and catered dinner parties. There's an adjacent pantry that can be used by staff serving room service or catering hosted events.

Among other personal touches related to Hagen are wine and music collections that he curated for the rooms.

Similar Owner's Suites can be found on other Viking ocean ships, too, all used from time to time by Hagen and his family.

Reflection Suite

Ship: Celebrity Reflection (Celebrity Cruises)

Many Celebrity Cruises ships have spacious and alluring suites. But the newest of the line's five Solstice Class vessels, Celebrity Reflection, has my favorite of them all: the Reflection Suite.

Unveiled in 2012, the Reflection Suite was the brand's first two-bedroom suite, and it measures a none-too-shabby 1,636 square feet, not including a 194-square-foot balcony.

Located in a panoramic corner spot on the ship, it features a glass-walled living and dining area with a dining table that can seat 10 people (just in case you want to hold a dinner party during your cruise).

Related: TPG's ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

But what really earns it a place on our list of the best cruise ship suites is the Reflection Suite's stunning, glass-walled master bathroom. Dubbed a "sea-view bathroom," it is just that — a bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer incredible sea views. The most-talked-about highlight of the space: a glass-enclosed rain shower that juts out over the edge of the ship.

Just be careful if you use the shower as the ship pulls into port: You might end up putting on a show. (The walls are made of "smart glass," so you can change them from transparent to translucent.) That said, we can't think of another bathroom on a cruise ship with such amazing views.

Ship: Riviera (Oceania Cruises)

The owner's suites on Oceania Cruises ' Riviera — there are three of them — rival anything you can find at a resort on land when it comes to elegance and style.

So do three more owner's suites that you can find on Riviera's slightly older sister ship, Marina.

All six of the suites were decorated using Ralph Lauren furnishings by designer Susan Bednar Long, and they have a wonderful flow and consistency in style.

The mahogany beds that you'll find in the master bedrooms are upholstered in steel-blue mohair — a striking touch — and are flanked by walls covered in cashmere. A few steps away, a marble-clad master bathroom offers more luxurious Ralph Lauren design touches.

Measuring around 2,000 square feet, the owner's suites also have spacious living rooms and a dramatic entryway with a bar on one side and a grand piano on the other.

The suites offer lots of outdoor living space with wrap-around balconies that are home to hot tubs and flat-screen TVs. These balconies overlook the back of the ship, offering great views.

Among the extra touches, a stay in one of the suites comes with butler service, free laundry service of up to three bags per sailing, priority ship embarkation with priority luggage delivery and access to an exclusive executive lounge staffed by a dedicated concierge.

Ultimate Family Suite

Ship: Symphony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Yes, I'm putting a second Royal Caribbean suite on my short list of the seven best cruise suites. The line is that amazing when it comes to suites. Indeed, if I had to pick just one cruise line for best suites, it'd be Royal Caribbean.

The Ultimate Family Suite on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas, which debuted in 2018, really is the ultimate family suite. I can't think of a better suite anywhere in the world, at sea or on land, for families with kids, particularly small kids.

Like two other Ultimate Family suites that have debuted more recently on Spectrum of the Seas (a ship devoted to the Asia cruise market) and Wonder of the Seas, Symphony's is like a kiddie fun zone that happens to have beds where you can spend the night.

Related: 12 tips for surviving a luxury cruise with kids

Measuring a palatial 1,346 square feet, the Ultimate Family Suite on Symphony of the Seas spans two decks that are loaded with such kid-friendly attractions as an air hockey table, a building block wall, table tennis on the balcony and a vertical climbing maze.

There's also a crawl-through nook connecting the main bedroom for adults and a second kiddie bedroom, plus — surely the coolest feature of all — a slide that descends from the second floor of the complex to the first floor. (Don't worry, there are stairs, too, for those who want to move between floors the traditional way.)

In addition, the complex has its very own private cinema room with an 85-inch 4K TV that streams movies, a popcorn machine and the latest gaming consoles.

Designed with even the largest families in mind — it can hold up to eight people! — the suite also features one of the most jaw-dropping balcony views on the entire ship. And, like all high-end suites on Royal Caribbean ships, it comes with a Royal Genie — a personal butler assigned to cater to your every need.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.