Disney Cruise Line Adult Dining Pricing

 Disney Cruise Line Adult Dining Pricing

There has been no official Disney Cruise Line announcement about this. It has been confirmed that prices for adult dining on the Disney Cruise Line are increasing. I’ve seen many posts about this but had not been able to confirm it independently with an official Disney Cruise Line announcement. I contacted DCL to verify the information myself. I can verify that both Palo and Enchante on both the Wish and Treasure have increased prices.

This is the reply from DCL:

”In order to continue enhancing the overall dining experience and menu offerings at our adult-exclusive restaurants, the pricing for these venues across the Disney Cruise Line fleet is being updated. However, the timing of these changes is not uniform across all ships.

 

Each ship has its own specific date and time when the new pricing takes effect, meaning there may be a period where ships will have different prices for adult-exclusive dining. As of now, I can confirm that the updated pricing is already in effect for the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure. For Palo there was an increase of $5, and for Enchanté the increase was $10.”

 

At this point in time only the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure prices have increased. It is expected that over the next few months all ships Adult Dinning will increase to match pricing. Palo on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder will increase by $5. Prices for Palo and Remy on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy will also increase. Palo by $5 and Remy by $10. When Disney Destiny joins the fleet, I expect the prices to match those on the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure for Palo and Enchante. This prices are a 10% or less increase for each restaurant. Honestly I still think for Palo it is worth the price for Brunch where you can eat what you wish.

Why dine at Palo, Remy or Enchante? It is a wonderful adult only get away and an experience that is elevated while still fun. We always try to do Palo and will continue to do so, even with the increase in price. I go for the experience and enjoy the food as well.

Disney Cruise Line Updates Deposit and Cancellation Policies!

Disney Cruise Line Updates Deposit and Cancellation Policies!

Announcement by Disney:

Beginning June 18, the required deposit for Disney Cruise Line reservations is changing from 20% to 10% of the voyage fare for new bookings. For existing reservations made on or before June 17, 2025, the original 20% deposit remains in place in accordance with the terms agreed upon at the time of booking. Specific details for this update include:

Cancellation Fees

• Cancellation fees will follow the new deposit policy for sailings made on or after June 18, 2025.
• If a reservation is cancelled during the deposit cancellation fee period and the deposit was 10%, the cancellation fees will also be 10% of the voyage fare.
• Cancellation fees for guests who previously paid a 20% deposit will be 20% of the voyage fare.
• Per our existing policy, deposits will continue to be non-refundable for Concierge Guests.

Modifications

• If a Guest is outside the cancellation fee period and prefers to take advantage of the new 10% deposit policy, they may cancel and rebook their reservation under the updated terms.
• Standard cancellation fees may apply for reservations within the cancellation fee period, as outlined in our terms and conditions.

Onboard Placeholder Offers

• Guests who have booked a Placeholder Reservation will also see a change in the required deposit when they add a sail date to their reservation if the sailing is 7 nights or longer.
• Guests will only be required to pay a 5% deposit. If the reservation is cancelled in the deposit cancellation fee window, Guests will only be subject to a 5% cancellation fee.
• In addition to the deposit percentage change, there will no longer be a three day hold when converting Onboard Placeholder Offers through the Contact Center or when booking online. A deposit will now be due at the time of placeholder conversion now that placeholders can be converted online.

 

How does this affect cruisers booking:

DCL has made Deposit and Cancellation Policy changes that those that LOVE Disney Cruising will be happy with!! I held off posting this until I was able to call and confirm with DCL the Deposit Cancellation Policy.

 

Starting June 18^th, 2025, the initial deposit for Disney Cruises will be 10% instead of 20% of the cruise fare. If you are booking with a placeholder, you will only need to make a deposit of 5% of the cruise fare on cruises 7 nights or longer! Even with the placeholder you will need to make a 10% deposit on cruises shorter than 7-nightss. It will be much easier to make the deposit!

 

The Cancellation policy is basically the same. If you cancel your cruise after the Pay in Full Date you will be charged a cancellation fee that starts with the deposit amount. If you made your deposit before June 18^th, 2025, and the deposit was 20% you will lose 20% up to the full amount if you cancel in the last 2 weeks before the cruise. If you make a deposit after June 18^th, 2025, your starting cancellation fee is 10%, up to the full fare. If you book a 7-night cruise with a placeholder and the deposit is 5% you with have a starting cancellation fee of 5% up to the full fare.

 

This is EXTRA good news at this time!!! DCL should be releasing new itineraries for Fall 2026-Spring 2027 (late September 2026-May 2027) shortly!

Facts, Rumors/ Speculation, and Thoughts on the Disney Cruise Line Expansion

Facts, Rumors/ Speculation, and Thoughts on the Disney Cruise Line Expansion

Right now, it is an exciting time for DCL fans!!! Lots of known facts, rumors and speculation is going on. Let’s separate them so we know exactly what is known proven FACT vs Rumors/Speculation.

Known Facts:

Disney Cruise Line is expanding its fleet to 13 ships by 2031

They will have:

• 2 Classic-Class Ships
• 2 Dream-Class Ships
• 5 Wish-Class Ships
• 1 Global-Class Ship
• 3 Unnamed-Class Ships
• Wish-Class Destiny will join the fleet November 2025
• Disney Cruise Line is sending one new ship to Singapore, December 2025, Disney Adventure
• Disney Cruise Line is building and sending a new Wish-Class ship to Japan to be under the same company that owns and operates Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea.
• Wish-Class Ship Unnamed to come to the USA in 2027
• Wish-Class Unnamed ship to Japan in 2028
• New Unnamed-Class Ships to join the fleet 2029-2031

Disney Cruise Line has added 2 new year-round Ports:

• DCL has made an agreement starting Fall of 2027, they will be stopping at Catalina Island year-round.
• DCL has confirmed that they have made an agreement with the Port of Galveston to start sailing out of Galveston year-round starting 2027.
• Port Canaveral has too much cruise traffic and cannot handle more ships sailing out of there. Port Canaveral cannot expand to take on more traffic.
• Fort Lauderdale is also getting busy and nearing a limit to the number of ships and expandability.
• Disney Cruise Line popularity is growing.
• US West Coast and Gulf of Mexico cruising is growing.

Rumors and Speculation:

• Disney Cruise Line will leave Magic & Wonder (the 2 Classic-Class ships) on the West Coast most of the year.
• Disney Cruise Line may bring one or more of their Unnamed-Class ships to the West Coast.
• Magic and Wonder will continue going to Alaska.
• Wonder will continue going to Australia in the US winter.
• So far reports are saying a new Wish-Class Disney will call Galveston, Tx home port.
• One of the Dream-Class ships will most likely continue going to Europe in the Summers.

Why these Speculations:

• Only the Classic-Class ships and maybe the Unnamed-Class to be built can get through the Panama Canel. Dream and Wish-Class ships are too tall to go under the Bridge of Americas.
• The Magic and Wonder are specifically mentioned in the Catalina Island agreement. There is mention of possible “other” Disney ships.
• It looks like the Unnamed-Class ships could be small enough to pass through the Panama Canel so it would be able to come over to the West Coast. This is unconfirmed.
• The Australian Cruises are quite popular. I don’t see Disney stopping it. They may switch up ships but still DCL will go there.
• I believe 3 Wish-Class ships will be split between Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale Fl. along with a Dream-Class. With 5 or 6 ships there I believe DCL has reached it’s limit for keeping any other class ship there.
• With the addition of 3 new Unnamed-Class smaller ships there are lots of options. You could split them between Galveston, Tx and San Diego, Ca.
• Very sad speculation. Magic and Wonder are approaching 30 years old. 30 years is the expected useful life of a passenger cruise ship. After 30 years the ships smell on the inside, technology has passed them up and mechanical issues show up. It is possible that these two wave breaking ships may be decommissioned in the next 5-10 years. The newer smaller Unnamed-Class would take over for them.

 

New DCL Itineraries should be coming out in the next few weeks. Let me know if you would like to be on the list to be notified.

Info@PixieDustedMemoriesTravel.com

 

Check-In & Check It Out: What’s New at Port Orleans French Quarter

 Check-In & Check It Out:

What’s New at Port Orleans French Quarter

By Disney Destinations May 20, 2025

 

There are more than 25 uniquely themed Disney Resort hotels at Walt Disney World, each inviting guests to immerse themselves in a different world between adventures throughout the theme parks and beyond.

When guests stay at Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter, they are transported to the  lively streets New Orleans. Colorful building facades, grand walkways and lush greenery evoke the feeling of walking through the city’s historic streets.

Now, with over a thousand room refurbishments officially completed, there’s even more festive flair for guests to discover at this fan-favorite resort.

Enjoy Refurbished Rooms with Charm at Port Orleans French Quarter

Throughout each room, colorful fabrics and patterns inspired by the city’s charming architecture bringing the lively spirit of “The Big Easy” to life, just like the buildings’ vibrant exteriors.

Guests will also notice nods to Mardi Gras celebrations, including artwork featuring those iconic purple, gold and green beads.

New portraits add even more character, featuring Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen, Louis and Charlotte La Bouff from “The Princess and the Frog” all dressed in their Mardi Gras best and dancing through the French Quarter in style!

Guests can take a closer look at the intricate detailing on the bathroom door and mosaic-style pattern above the beds, and catch hidden details like Tiana's sparkling tiara, as well as drums and trumpets -- and homage to New Orleans' jazz roots.

The refreshed bathroom is as relaxing as it is functional, offering plenty of storage options and a spacious counter – perfect for those mornings when the family is getting ready before a fun-filled day at the at the theme parks.

Get Transported to New Orleans

Outdoors, the theming continues with updated surfaces and vibrant designs throughout the newly refurbished Doubloon Lagoon pool area and Mardi Grogs pool bar, now featuring a brighter, more upscale look with airy blues, black-and-white tiles and wrought iron details.

They perfectly weave in those recognizable New Orleans elements while complementing the relaxed poolside vibe.

“This resort is all about transporting guests to the heart of New Orleans, and the recent enhancements bring that story to life in a exciting new ways,” said Diane Petit, General Manager, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort. “Everything ties back to the charm and culture that our guests love.”

Experience All the Resort Has to Offer

When guests are not relaxing in these newly reimagined spaces, there’s no shortage of fun to experience around the resort. From taking a spin down the colorful sea serpent waterslide (named Scales!) to catching a movie under the stars, there’s something for everyone.

Many guests love listening to the live jazz music at Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge, taking a stroll along the scenic Sassagoula River, renting bikes or even hopping aboard a boat to Disney Springs – one of the complimentary transportation options available as part of their stay. And of course, no visit to the French Quarter is complete without Mickey-shaped beignets from Scat Cat’s Club – Café!

At the heart of the magic of a Disney Resort hotel stay is the exceptional service provided by Disney cast members. Whether it’s a friendly greeting after a day at the parks, a day at the parks, a surprise magical moment to celebrate a special occasion or just a helping hand when guests need it most, cast members are known for creating the kinds of memories that last a lifetime.

Stay in the Magic This Summer

There is so much fun in store this summer as we get ready to kick off Cool Kid Summer, coming to Walt Disney World May 27 through September 1. Families can make a splash with special deals and Disney-themed activities at select resorts.

Staying at a Disney Resort hotel offers more than just a place to rest – it provides convenient access to the magic, early theme park entry and complimentary transportation throughout Walt Disney World Resort, and even admission to a Disney water park on check-in day.

With special offers available throughout the year, it’s easier than ever to create unforgettable memories with loved ones.

Stay tuned for even more updates as the Disney Resort renovations continue, and as they say in the French Quarter, laissez les bons temps rouler!

Simple Price Comparison Between Disneyland and Disney Cruise Line

Simple Price Comparison Between Disneyland and Disney Cruise Line

This information is for everyone but, it is particularly for those living in the So Cal area who love Disneyland. I wanted to give you a heads up for late 2027 and beyond when DCL will have a ship or two here.

 

Admittedly these trips are not at the same time, but it is a straightforward, simple comparison between 2 different 5-Night Disney vacations. Both are for 2 adults. A Disney Cruise is more expensive . . . right???

 

Choice 1, Disneyland:

Disneyland 5-Night, 4-Day Park Hopper Ticket with Lightning Lane Multi Pass (with Disneyland Anniversary Discount Ticket Offer), staying at Pixar Place Hotel, Standard View room. This is in July 2025. Total package cost $4,321.56. This offer does not include food or other extra entertainment, like park tours or character dining.

 

Choice 2, Disney Cruise on the Disney Wonder:

5-Night, total price $3,302.86. This is a Category 05A Oceanview with Veranda. This is a much higher room level. It would be equivalent to a preferred view. Meals are included as is character dining at some select Main Dining Restaurants during dinner. 2 of the Main Restaurants have dinner shows on the Wonder. There are 3 Broadway caliber shows, Pirate Night deck party with fireworks at sea, character meet and greets and MORE. This cruise is in April 2026. The only thing not added to this cost is a pre-cruise hotel. You should get that but it can be $150-$500, depending on where you like to stay. Not enough to truly tip the scales away from DCL. Remember you pay for food at DLR!

 

That is a $1,018.70 difference without adding the cost of food and drinks you need to purchase while in the park. Food alone could add another $150+ per day (Double that if your booking character dining.) for 3 meals and snacks. That would be another $600+. That does not include any higher-end meals or character dining. DCL includes snacks and even all the Mickey Bars you wish to eat!

 

If you are limited on funds reconsider the cost of a Disney Cruise. You get more value for your vacation dollar! The experience is different between the park and Cruise. You can pinch for the parks and bring the price down. To cut cost on a DLR stay consider a Good Neighbor or Neighboring Hotel instead of staying on property. You can bring or purchase outside the parks snacks to eat in the park. Skipping meals, sharing or not going to any sit-down or character meals will save. You might be able to get the price close to DCL. But what are you missing?

 

Would you enjoy a fine dining experience every night, at no extra cost? How about all the free soda, regular coffee, tea, milk, juice, hot coco and even cold water you want. Bring a travel mug or water bottle to refill at the drink station! Would you enjoy walking up to quick service and the buffet location and getting all you want to eat, there is no additional cost? Would you feel special walking into a restaurant every night and the servers know your name, table number and what you usually enjoy drinking when you sit down? How about you want more food at dinner? Just ask! Seconds of what you had or something else entirely it is free, food is included! That is the DCL diferance!

 

The parks are WONDERFUL and amazing to experience. Every Disney fan should do the parks!! You can do the parks on a budget. But would you like to be completely spoiled on vacation? Try a Disney Cruise!!

How Can You Use Disney Gift Cards on the Disney Cruise Ships?

How Can You Use Disney Gift Cards on the Disney Cruise Ships?

Disney Cruise Ships are Cashless. You charge things to your cabin and pay when you reach the limit that DCL will allow you to charge for that trip (this depends on the length of the sailing), or the end of the trip. You can place funds on your Onboard Folio/Account to pay for items you expect to purchase. This is where Disney Gift Cards come into play. You can also make purchases using Credit/Debit Cards.

I’ve posted before about using Discounted Disney Gift Cards to pay for your cruise fare, gratuities and anything you pay for on a Disney Cruise Ship or pay to Disney Cruise before sailing. But how do you use them?

There are several ways to use Disney Gift Cards on a Disney Ship:

• Load the Disney Gift Cards onto you Shipboard Folio/Account before sailing.
• You do this by logging into your Disney Cruise Line account and going to the Onboard Gift section toward the bottom of the page.
• Select Onboard Credit and pay for the Onboard Credit using your Disney Gift Cards.
• Hold onto the Disney Gift Cards! If you do not spend all the money the extra will be refunded to the card(s). If you have to return anything once you get home and they need to refund the money you will need that card.
• If you are uncomfortable or don’t get to loading the funds onto your Onboard Folio/Account you can go to Guest Services when you board and add it then. You can do this anytime throughout your cruise.
• If you are making a purchase in one of the ships stores you can usually use your gift card in the shops.
• Sometimes the WiFi does not connect well with the land and they can’t use them. It is the same case with using Credit Cards.
• You can always charge the purchase to your cabin and then go put the funds on your Onboard Folio/Account later.

As always, remember you can often find ways to purchase discounted Disney Gift Cards. Make sure it is a legitimate company selling them. Be careful purchasing them online unless you are sure it is a legitimate source. Target and EBates are the two places online I know of for sure that are legitimate. Target, Sam’s Club and CostCo sometimes have them as well, in their stores. Follow the store policy to get the discount.

What is DisneyBand+ and do You NEED to when you Sail Disney Cruise Line

What is DisneyBand+ and do You NEED to when you Sail Disney Cruise Line

Simply put, a DisenyBand+ is the exact same thing as a Magic Band+ that you use in the Disney Parks, in fact it IS a Magic Band+ from the Parks. If you already have a Magic Band+ from the Disney Parks you can use it on the ships. You can also use your DCL DisneyBand+ in the Disney Parks.

What can you do with a DisneyBand+. DisneyBand+ works the same  way a Magic Bagic+ works at the parks.

When you are boarding at Port Canaveral or Fort Lauderdale you can use it when you need to show your Port Arrival Time and Boarding Group Number. These 2 ports are dedicated to Disney Ships.

You can open your cabin door by touching it to the same scanner you use for your Key to the World Card.

You can charge purchases at the gift shops on the ship.

You can use it to charge specialty drinks on the ship.

You can use the DisneyBand+ instead of your Key to the World Card to Disembark the ship at the Disney Ports.

You can scan it when getting pictures taken by the photographers to attach your photos to your package.

In most cases DisneyBand+ replaces the Key to the World Card on the ship.

 

When will your DisneyBand+ not work.

You will need your Key to the World Card when getting off in ports other than Castaway and Lighthouse/Lookout Cay.

You will need your Key to the World Card when Disembarking at the end of the cruise.

 

Why get a DisneyBand+?

A DisneyBand+ does enhance the fun/magic. It will light up and vibrate during shows and at specific locations.

It makes getting into your cabin easier when your hands are full with a sleeping child or packages from the ships shops or shore.

You don’t have to scramble looking for your Key to the World Card when charging things.

 

The choice is yours if you wish to get one.