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Disney Cruise: First Timer Tips

By Jade Monzo, Owner, Rope Drop Travel April 10, 2020

If you’ve never been on a Disney Cruise making sure you make the most of your investment on this amazing vacation is imperative. A Disney Cruise is really three vacations in one where you get the land, sea, and amazing quality of Disney characters and fun! Here are a few things that will help make the most of your cruise experience!

Lunch when first arriving

Do NOT run to the cabanas right away! Everyone is under the perception this is the only place to eat when arriving on the ship. Well, this isn’t the case! There is always an alternate dining venue which could help you avoid the crowds. Just ask a Cast Member what restaurant and what time they will open. Also, remember it’s all FREE (well, included in your cruise fare).

Mandatory Assembly Drill Time

You want to make sure you remember safety first and attend. Make sure you slather on that sunscreen because you may be standing in direct sunlight during this period of time.

Stateroom Space

Be sure to utilize all the space given to you. If you are on a lengthy cruise, make sure to unpack and use the dressers. Under the bed is a perfect place for your suitcases as the beds are designed to fit a fully packed suitcase underneath it. Pack some space-saving things such as over the door organizers to use every inch of space.

Drink Stations

Drink fountains are located all around the pool decks. You can drink as much as you want during the duration of your cruise as it’s included in your cruise fare. Make sure to bring a reusable sport/water bottle that you can fill and bring back to your stateroom. They do provide you with cups and straws so it’s not a necessity, however, they are only 12oz and it’s always nice to have your own to keep with you.

Nightly Routine

Meet your new best friend!!! Every stateroom is provided with a Stateroom Host or Hostess. The lovely individual will take down your upper berth (this is a bunk bed that comes out of the ceiling, which is put up during the day for more room). He/she will also leave a towel animal, chocolate and your Personal Navigator which will have all the activities and locations listed for the next day. Be sure to read this so you don’t miss out on any meet and greets or any activity that you may be interested in.

*Fun fact: When the upper berth is taken down it reveals a mural of Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Wendy and her brothers soaring through the starry night sky!

Sail Away Party/Nighttime Entertainment

You don’t want to miss these as they will be sure to put you in vacation mode. This is also a great time to see all your favorite characters letting loose and having fun. No one does entertainment like Disney!   

Lastly, remember to sit back and relax! There will be live shows to water slides, movies on the deck or in the theater, meet and greets and so much more. Be sure to read your Personal Navigator and ask your Disney Vacation Planner any questions you may have. 


Jade is the owner of Rope Drop Travel, a full-service travel agency specializing in Disney destinations. She lives with her husband and seven little ones' ages eleven and under. She enjoys helping with her children’s school PTO’s and all things Disney.


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