Disney Cruise Line Frequently Asked Questions

Cruising can sometimes be confusing, especially for a first-time cruiser. Luckily, we have the most common Disney Cruise Line Frequently Asked Questions here for you to help you with the planning process.

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General Information Getting Ready To Go Transportation On Board the Ship Stateroom Questions Money Matters

General Disney Cruise Line Frequently Asked Questions

What is Included in your Cruise Price?

On board the Disney Cruise Line ship, your vacation package price includes almost everything — from your stateroom itself to breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as snacks every day. In addition, guests can enjoy all the onboard programming and entertainment, complimentary. The price you have paid includes access to recreational activities, a fitness center, and kids programs for ages 3-17.

What is Not Included in the Price of the Cruise?

While you’re sailing, there are only a few things that will require an additional charge. Excluded, are spa or salon visits, phone calls, photos, video games, internet usage, bingo, some snacks in the sweet shops, coffee in the coffee shops, and all alcoholic or specialty beverages. There is a charge for childcare for children under the age of three if parents choose to use it.

There is also a nominal fee to dine at Palo or Remy (the adults-only restaurants found on both the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy. Enchante is the Remy equivalent on the Disney Wish.).

Shore excursions are at an extra cost. Prebook shore excursions via the Disney Cruise Line app or website. Finally, gratuities are an additional expenditure. Gratuities are one of the largest additional expenses most people will incur during the sailing.

Of course, another big expense that is not included in the price of your cruise are any Port Adventures that you wish to take. Those vary in price, depending on the adventure.

Will I be Bored?

You shouldn’t be. There is so much to do including recreational activities, nighttime shows, midnight buffets, live bands, movies, ports of call, swimming pools, fitness centers, kid’s activities, characters, incredible meals, shore excursions, dance clubs, family photos, unique ports of call like Castaway Cay, and so much more. You may be having so much fun; that you may forget to relax!

Do I Need a Passport?

All U.S. and Canadian citizens must travel with a valid passport, or a certified birth certificate (with an official raised seal) and a picture identification, if the cruise is a closed-loop cruise. (Meaning you depart and arrive back in the same port.) If you are going on a cruise that doesn’t end up at the same location where you started, you will need a valid passport. The passport should not expire for at least six months after the end of your cruise.

All Guests who are not U.S. or Canadian citizens must have valid passports and necessary visas at the time of embarkation. Any Guest traveling without proper documentation will not be allowed to board the vessel and will not be entitled to any refund.

More information on documentation can be found on our Required Documentation and Customs page.

Will I Get Seasick?

While seasickness used to be a common concern on cruises, it now affects fewer people.

The Disney Cruise Line has stabilizers and other high-tech controls that minimize the ship’s movement. Also, weather tracking devices help to keep the Disney Cruise Line in calm waters as much as possible.

Chances are you will experience a wonderful cruise and won’t have to worry about seasickness at all. There are several over-the-counter remedies for seasickness that some guests choose to bring with them just in case it happens, though. If you need to purchase anything over the counter, some medicines are available at the guest services desk on deck 3 of any ship, and a select shops on board.

Can Cruise Itineraries Change?

Occasionally, weather conditions and other circumstances beyond Disney Cruise Line’s control require an itinerary change. In these situations, the cruise line will make every attempt to visit alternative ports where guests will enjoy popular vacation destinations and safe conditions.

Sometimes itinerary changes will occur during the sailing. For example, occasionally rough seas make it impossible to dock at a certain port. While this doesn’t happen often, it is best to prepare for the unexpected.

Getting Ready to Go FAQ

What are the Best Times of the Year to Cruise?

Any time of year is perfect for a cruise, and each season has its pros and cons.

If price is your main concern, January, September, October, November and the first weeks in December offer good pricing. Be aware that hurricane season is June 1 – November 1, which the most activity happens in the fall. Hurricanes rarely cause any major interruption to your cruise. Should one come up during your sailing, Disney Cruise Line will alter plans, as needed.

Keep in mind that cruise dates near any major holiday or when children are generally out of school are more traditionally more expensive.

When Should I Book My Cruise?

Guests should book as soon as they have travel dates. By booking your cruise earlier, you can save big on pricing.  As the number of cabins booked on a particular sailing date increases, the price of the cruise will increase. If you want the best price for a cruise, book once sailings are released.

We suggest you contact The Magic for Less Travel at www.themagicforless.com to assist with your booking. The Magic For Less Travel will provide excellent customer service. Disney has named them an Authorized Disney Planner. They can help with all your cruising questions, booking, planning, and more.

Should I Buy Trip Insurance?

Since cruises have steep penalties for canceling, we think trip insurance is a good idea. Most policies also cover things like lost luggage and illnesses while on vacation. Check the specific policy for inclusions.

Do I Need to Bring any Special Clothing?

Just like the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line offers a casual, informal resort atmosphere. Shorts, capris, pants, sundresses, etc. are all appropriate for warmer seasons. In winter, cooler days and nights may require a light jacket or sweater. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes as well as shoes for hanging out at the pool. Also, don’t forget to bring your swim attire.

As far as attire for the dining rooms, dining dress requirements vary by venue or theme night on your cruise. In general, most meals are “Cruise Casual”—no swimwear or tank tops. Most cruises also have special theme nights with additional attire requirements. For men, we recommend wearing button-down or polo shirts with open collars and slacks. Pants and a blouse or a casual dress are appropriate for ladies. In addition, shorts are now permitted in the three main dining rooms.  Disney Cruise Line requests that no T-shirts or jeans be worn in any of the restaurants in the evening.

For Palo, Remy, and Enchante (Remy-Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy and Enchante-Disney Wish), a fancier dress code applies. When dining at these locations, the requirement is dress pants with a shirt or jacket for men. (Jacket is optional). Women should wear a dress or pantsuit and should avoid jeans, shorts, capris, flip-flops, and tennis shoes. At Remy, a tuxedo, sports jacket, or suit jacket is required along with dress pants for men, with ties optional. For women, a cocktail dress, pantsuit, or skirt and blouse are required. Jeans, shorts, capri pants, flip-flops, and tennis shoes are also not permitted here.

Aboard the 7-Night Caribbean Cruise, there is a formal and semi-formal where Guests can wear more formal attire if they choose. “It is not mandatory to do so.”

For guests sailing on a 7-night Cruise, you will celebrate the spirit with a special deck party. You’re invited to wear festive island clothes such as colorful shirts, dresses, shorts, or pants to join in the fun.. This is the perfect time to dust off that Hawaiian shirt 😉

What to Pack?

Don’t stress about what to pack for your cruise. Consider what you will be doing each day on the cruise. Where will you be going? What will you be doing? Pack according to your probable activity. Think comfort and practicality. If you want to make sure you won’t forget anything, go through the Ultimate Cruising Packing List and pack to your heart’s desire!

Transportation Frequently Asked Questions

Where Can I Park My Car While I Cruise?

Parking costs are based on the cruise itinerary. Parking at Port Canaveral:

• $60.00 per parking space for the 3-night cruise
• $75.00 per parking space for the 4-night cruise
• $90.00 per parking space for the 5-night cruise
• $105.00 per parking space for the 6-night cruise
• $120.00 per parking space for the 7-night cruise

If the Guest’s vehicle takes up more than one parking space (for example, RV or trailer), the guest is charged $15.00 per additional parking space per day.

Preferred parking is also available for $25.00 per day. The preferred parking area is located inside the secured area, next to the vehicle drop-off area.

Other departure ports will have parking available at the cruise port.

Should I Fly on the Day of the Cruise?

We strongly suggest that you fly in at least the evening before your cruise. You are responsible for arriving at the port at least an hour and a half before your scheduled ship sailing. Arriving the night before gives you peace of mind to board your ship.

Onboard Disney Cruise Line Frequently Asked Questions

How can I Communicate with Family and Friends at Home?

You can directly dial anywhere in the world right from your stateroom. Ship-to-shore rates apply. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to dial any 800 numbers from the ship, so your calling card will not work on the ships. Be aware, though, that the charges are quite high (upwards of $7 per minute).

Many guests find that e-mail is a less expensive method of communication, although be aware of data roaming charges if using a cell phone. There are internet usage packages are available. Check with your wireless carrier to see what is best for you. Also, if using a calling card, many ports will have a place to make those international calls for a little less.

If your friends and family at home need to reach you they can call (888) 322-8732, but only for emergencies.

How Can I Communicate With my Friends and Family Onboard the Ship?

Before your cruise, download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. Through this app, Guests can stay in touch with their shipmates with one on one or a group chat option. All Guests in the party should make sure to download the app prior to sailing.

Can I use the Internet While Onboard?

There are several options for internet packages while on Disney Cruise Line. At this time, time-based internet package are not available onboard the Disney Wonder. Pricing for internet packages on the other ships is as follows:

• Stay Connected Package 
  • $16/day when purchased for the full voyage
  • $18/day when purchased for 24 hours
• Basic Surf Package
  • $24/day when purchased for the full voyage
  • $28/day when purchased for 24 hours
• Premium Surf Package 
  • $34/day when purchased for the full voyage
  • $42/day when purchased for 24 hours

As a reminder, Guests can purchase Internet for 24 hour periods, or per voyage. Guests receive a 20% discount on voyage pricing vs 24-hour pricing, and adding additional devices to an Internet package will receive a 20% discount. If Guests purchase a voyage plan mid-voyage, they will only be charged for the remaining days. Please note: “Days remaining” change at midnight, so purchasing at 11:55 pm will still charge Guests for the full day.

Are there Laundry Services Available?

For a fee, onboard, laundry and dry-cleaning services are available. Guests have access to a self-serve laundry room, which includes washers, dryers, detergent, and ironing equipment. Guests may use their room key to operate the machines.

Are there Medical Services on Board?

A physician and nurse are on call 24 hours a day on every cruise to provide basic medical services. The physician and nurse will charge their standard fees for services. Insurance coverage is not accepted as payment for medical coverage. The fee will be billed to your stateroom account and the guest can then submit the bill to their insurance company if covered.

During daily clinic hours, there is a Health Center on each ship. It is located on Deck 1, Forward, and available for non-emergency situations.

More serious medical conditions would be assisted in the closest port of call.

Are Religious Services Available?

Although religious services are not typically available, during certain religious holidays, an onboard clergy performs services. Information will be provided onboard.

What are the Smoking rules?

Disney Cruise Line does not allow smoking in Guest staterooms. Smoking is also prohibited in all interior spaces throughout our ships. In addition, smoking is also prohibited on stateroom verandahs. Smoking (including the use of electronic cigarettes) is only permitted in designated areas of the ship. Guests found smoking in their staterooms or on their verandahs will be charged a $250 stateroom recovery fee, which covers deep cleaning that includes air filter replacement, carpet extraction, and the cleaning and replacement of drapes, comforters, blankets and pillows, along with verandah cleaning and maintenance.

Aboard the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, guests can smoke:

• Outdoors on Deck 4 starboard side from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. only
• Deck 9, Portside anytime

On the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, guests can smoke:

• Deck 4 port side, aft, the outside Promenade Deck from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
• Deck 12 port side, aft, the outdoor area that is accessible through the Meridian Lounge
• Deck 13 port side, forward, by Currents Bar

On the Disney Wish, Guests can smoke:

• Deck 14, forward, port side, any time
• Deck 14, aft, port side, any time
• Deck 4, port side from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM

Staterooms Frequently Asked Questions

Are there Standard Outlets in the Staterooms?

All stateroom outlets are 110V/60 Hz. Standard U.S. electrical appliances will work on board. There’s a hair dryer in every stateroom. Guests may not bring along an extension cord or a power bar with them.

Are there Refrigerators in the Staterooms?

There is a small refrigerator that keeps beverages cold. There is also an ice bucket in each room.

Money Matters Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Cash Will I Need?

Disney Cruise Line has a convenient “cash-free” system on board. When guests complete online check-in, they must provide a credit card for charging privileges during the cruise. Any purchases on the ship, including beverage services, spa, salon services, photography, medical and laundry services, purchases from retail shops, gratuities, and any item or service of a personal nature must be charged to your room charge. All charges will be settled prior to debarkation from the ship by cash, personal check (with proper ID), traveler’s checks, Disney Gift Cards, or major credit card. Guests paying by a method other than the credit card on file will settle with guest services the evening before the end of the cruise.

Use your U.S. dollars and major credit cards in the Bahamas and the Caribbean. European and Canadian itineraries may require local currency for expenses in port and pre- and post-cruise.