Educated Guesses on Summer 2027 and Beyond Disney Cruise Line Deployment

Fall 2026 to Spring 2027 Disney Itineraries are OUT!! Why Book ASAP?

Fall 2026 to Spring 2027 Disney Itineraries are OUT!! Why Book ASAP?

Most DCL fans have heard that the new itineraries are out, and they will soon be available to book. Why is it important to book As Soon As Possible? These are for dates late September 2026 to May 2027. It includes some very special Halloween on the High Seas and Merrytime Cruises!

 

September 2^nd, 2025, is when the new itineraries are available for General Public booking. Did you know there is Early Booking opportunities??? If you have sailed DCL before, are a Golden Oaks, Club 33, DVC or an Adventures by Disney Insider you have early booking possibilities! It is HIGHLY recommended you take advantage of the first possible date to book!

Early Booking Dates:

• Monday, August 25, 2025: Castaway Club Pearl Members (Peral = DCL Guests who have sailed 26+ times)
• Tuesday, August 26, 2025: Castaway Club Platinum Members, Golden Oak and Walt Disney World Club 33 Members (Platinum = DCL Guests who have sailed 11-25  times)
• Wednesday, August 27, 2025: Castaway Club Gold Members (Gold = DCL Guests who have sailed 6-10times)
• Thursday, August 28, 2025: Castaway Club Silver Members, Disney Vacation Club Members and Adventures by Disney Adventure Insiders (Silver = DCL Guests who have sailed 1-5  times)
• Monday, September 2^nd, 2025: General Public Booking Opens (1^st time cruisers and all others)

 Where will each ship be:

Disney Cruise Ships fill up quickly. This is especially true for special and limited cruises like the longer relocation cruises, Transatlantic or Panama Canal are examples. Often these special cruises are filled by Pearl and Platinum Castaway Club Members. While this is true ALL cruises tend to fill. As the ships fill up the price goes up. If you want to secure the lowest possible fare it is recommended to book as close to the release date as possible.

Overview of Itineraries:

Many other Cruise Lines have discounted cabins close to the sail date. Disney usually does not. Let me give you an example. Someone wished to book a DCL cabin, it was about 8 months out from the cruise. The price had already gone up quite a bit before I even looked. They requested pricing for a particular cabin they knew was available and they love. I quoted them the price but did not place a hold. (A rooky mistake I no longer make.) They asked me to check another cabin for them. I got that price and they said they wanted the first cabin. The entire process took about 15 minutes maximum. The price of the first cabin had gone up $300 in that short amount of time! Long term, as in waiting until 6 or less months out, the price may have gone up as much as $1,000 or more!

 

All you need is a 10% deposit to hold the cabin at the lower fare. If you need to cancel you can do so up to the Pay In Full Date for the cruise and get a full refund. Some restrictions do apply for Concierge and other special category reservations. Make sure you understand the cancelation policy for your reservation.

 

The next release of DCL itineraries should be in October 2025. This would be in line with the historical release times. But I do not expect it to come out until later this year. Maybe as late as December 2025. This should be for the late May 2027 to September 2027 Itineraries.

 

If you are interested in booking a Fall 2026 to Spring 2027 Disney Cruise feel free to let us know! We will be happy to assist you in booking your cruise.

 

Info@PixieDustedMemoriesTravel.com

New Disney Cruise Line Itineraries with Expanded Sailings Coming to California and Texas

New Disney Cruise Line Itineraries with Expanded Sailings Coming to California and Texas

By: Disney Destinations

 

An expanded sailing season is on the horizon for Texas and California families with the fall 2026 and spring 2027 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries! There are endless options to choose from when planning the perfect Disney  cruise vacation.

 

Early bookings open on August 25, 2025 for select Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club Members, and general bookings open September 2, 2025. The full booking cadence is listed below. All bookings will begin at 8 am ET/ 8 pm SGT.

• Monday, August 25, 2025: Castaway Club Pearl Members
• Tuesday, August 26, 2025: Castaway Club Platinum Members, Golden Oak and Walt Disney World Club 33 Members
• Wednesday, August 27, 2025: Castaway Club Gold Members
• Thursday, August 28, 2025: Castaway Club Silver Members, Disney Vacation Club Members and Adventures by Disney Adventure Insiders
• Tuesday, September 2, 2025: General Bookings Open

 

Disney Cruise Line is returning to guest-favorite destinations, including Mexico, The Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean. Don’t forget to pack Mickey Mouse ears because several itineraries include an extra touch of Pixie Dust with stops at both of Disney’s island destinations, Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Day at Lighthouse Point. Some sailings will stop not once but twice at Disney Castaway Cay! And, for the first time, Disney Cruise Line will call on a new port, Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic.

California Dreaming

What can make West Coast breezes and California dreaming even more wonderful? Pairing that with a Disney cruise! The Disney Magic will kick off the sailing season in October 2026 from San Diego, California with three-, four-, five-, six-, and seven-night voyages before heading to Galveston, Texas in November, and the Disney Wonder will make its way to San Diego in October 2026 as well, offering everything from three- to seven-night sailings through April 2027. The Disney Magic will stop in Catalina Island, California as well as Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Deep in the Heart of Texas

You know what they say: the stars at night are big and bright deep in the heart of Texas. Now, imagine the magic of staking in those beautiful Texas night skies from the upper decks of the Disney Magic while enjoying ice cream cone and a Disney movie on the Funnel Vision. Families can do just that on the Disney Magic from Galveston between November 2026 and April 2027 on four-, five and seven-night sailings. Whether walking the sandy beaches of Cozumel, Mexico, and exploring the historic Progreso, Mexico, or experiencing a Bahamian vacation under the palm trees at Disney Castaway Cay or Nassau, there’s something for everyone.

 

Five Ships in Florida

Five ships in Florida! Try saying that five times fast. With ships sailing out of both Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral, there are so many Florida Disney Cruise Line Vacations to choose from. The Disney Destiny, joining the family November of 2025, will offer four-, five- and seven-nights from Fort Lauderdale to The Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean. It is destined to be a heroic or villainous time!

 

The Disney Dream will begin fall 2026 with three-, four-, five- and six-night dream cruises to The Bahamas and seven-night sailings to the Eastern Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, as well as seven-night sailings to the Southern Caribbean from San Juan, Puerto Rico, The Disney Dream will then make its way to Port Canaveral for more three- and four-night Bahamian vacations.

 

Families can live their own fairy tale fantasy on the Disney Fantasy, which will call on Disney Castaway Cay, Disney Lookout Cay and Nassau between October 2026 and May 2027 during three-, four-, and five-night voyages. There is truly nothing like Cookie’s BBQ and True-True BBQ, relaxing at Serenity Bay and meeting Mickey Mouse in an island paradise.

 

Whether your are wishing for a weekend getaway or the perfect weeklong vacation, the Disney Wish is waiting to visit Disney Castaway Cay, Disney Lookout Cay and Nassau. Three-, and four-night sailings from Port Canaveral will be offered on the Disney Wish.

 

The excitement continues with memories family can create treasure together. Seven-night sailings aboard the Disney Treasure from Port Canaveral will allow guests to experience the beauty of Cozumel, magic of Disney Castaway Cay, sunshine of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and the picturesque views of the Caribbean between October 2026 to May 2027,

 

Disney Adventure

The Disney Adventure, setting sail later this year, will return with three-, and four-night cruises from Marina Bay Cruise Center in Singapore from October to December 2026. Guests will have their own adventures experiencing beloved Disney, Pixar and Marvel stories in brand new ways, including Marvel-themed attractions and Browdway-Style theatrical experiences exclusive to the Disney Adventure.

 

Tis the Season

For the fans of spooky and merry festivities, it is time to start planning holiday celebrations at sea. Start scheming your best Halloween costume because Halloween on the High Seas is returning on select sailings from September to October 2026. Very Merrytime Cruises will begin in early November. Haul out the holly, enjoy all the festive treats and savor all the Halloween candy while celebrating the season onboard Disney Cruise Line with friends and family. These holiday themed sailing will be available on select domestic Disney Cruise Line itineraries.

 

Here is a list of the Itineraries by destination:

Note that sail dates are subject to change. View the latest Disney Cruise cruises on the Disney Cruise Line sites for itinerary dates.

 

Pixie Dusted Memories Travels is happy to assist you with finding the best cruise itinerary for you. Let us know how we can assist you.

 

Info@PixieDustedMemoriesTravel.com

 

Disney Cruise Line is LATE to Release Fall 2026 - Spring 2027 Itineraries

Disney Cruise Line is LATE to Release Fall 2026 - Spring 2027 Itineraries

Disney Cruise Line usually releases Itineraries approximately 18 months in advance of the earliest date. They usually release itineraries every 4 months and release 6 months of Itineraries at a time.

 

Historically DCL should have released the Fall 2026 - Spring 2027 itineraries by June or July of 2025. The itineraries for that time are still not out. We do not know why they are not out yet. We have seen some delay in the past due to new ship construction and questions about the build completion date. Why are these date delayed with no announcement about why or when they may be released? I have a possible reason.

 

As of August 7^th, 2025, Disney has started construction on a 4^th Wish-Class ship! Construction takes approximately 16-18 months, if there are no complications, as there were with the Wish. It is possible that the complication of this 4^th Wish-Class ship could be within the new itinerary dates. Possible completion date between March/May 2027? Disney may have been waiting to see if the construction started on time before announcing new itineraries.

 

Itinerary release dates may be confusing until 2031 because Disney has a ship a year joining the fleet between now and 2031! The only year there will be no new ship is 2026!

• 2025 - November 20th, Maiden Voyage of Disney Destiny, 3rd Wish-Class Ship, Ft Lauderdale, FL
• 2025 - December 15th, Maiden Voyage of Disney Adventure, one and only Global-Class, Singapore
• 2027 – Wish-Class Ship for USA (Could be sailing out of FL or Tx)
• 2028 -  Wish-Class Ship for Oriental Land Company for Tokyo, Japan
• 2029 – NEW 5^th-Class of ship for USA (Could be sailing out of FL, TX, CA or ?)
• 2030 – NEW 5th-Class of ship for USA (Could be sailing out of FL, TX, CA or ?)
• 2031 -  NEW 5th-Class of ship for USA (Could be sailing out of FL, TX, CA or ?)

Why is the release of new itineraries so interesting and necessary to know?? Simple. The closer to the date booking for the new itineraries open the lower the price! As the ships fill up the prices go up.

 

If you are interested in a Disney Cruise, we will be happy to assist you in booking!! If you want to be on a list to be notified when the new itineraries for Disney Cruise Line we have a list and will be happy to let you know!!

 

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Disney Cruise Line 50% Off 3rd & 4th Guests Offer

Set sail on select Disney Cruise Line sailings and discover the magic of togetherness. And now, for a limited time, third and fourth Guests in the same stateroom can join the adventure for 50% off on select sailings. Book today and let the enchantment begin.

Important Details:

• Available for select sailings on the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish between October 3, 2025, and March 30, 2026.
• Discount will be applied to the voyage fare of the third and fourth Guests (as applicable) with the purchase of 2 full-fare Guests in the same stateroom.
• Savings based-on non-discounted price for the same stateroom.
• Must be booked by October 12, 2025.
• Must call the Disney Cruise Line Contact Center to book stateroom accommodations for 5 Guests.
• Valid on new and existing bookings that meet the eligibility criteria. Must call the Disney Cruise Line Contact Center to add the offer to an existing reservation.
• The following stateroom categories are eligible for this offer: Categories 04A through 11C.
• Concierge staterooms and suites are not eligible for this offer.
• Cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts (including the guaranteed staterooms with restrictions offer).
• May )70be combined with Disney Vacation Club Points. To book, Members must contact Member Services at (800) 800-9800 or (407) 588-3800. Use of points is subject to Disney Vacation Club terms and conditions.
• Excludes optional Port Adventures and gratuities.
• The number of staterooms allowed for this offer is limited.
• Offer is subject to availability.

Parental Responsibility and Disney Destinations

Parental Responsibility and Disney Destinations

You are at Disney. Does not matter what park, resort or cruise ship. You feel safe and just want to have fun. But that does not mean you are not a parent and have responsibilities for your child’s safety. It seems that some parents think that everything is a safe protected bubble while in a Disney environment. I wish that was true. Parents, watch your children. Don’t let them get into a dangerous situation. Don’t put your child in danger.

 

I cannot count the stories I’ve heard of children getting hurt at Disney Parks, Resorts or on the Disney Cruise ships. Parents feel it is safe, so they step away, even for a moment and their child gets into a pool. Maybe one parent thinks a child is with the other parent and they lose track for a moment. I know of a family that had this happen. The child wonders off and gets hurt. Things happen. It is not Disney’s fault if you don’t watch your child. Do I think you need to keep a leash on your child 24/7 at Disney? No, unless they have an elopement issue or are neurodivergent and doesn’t realize dangers. Just be aware. Only you know your child best.

 

The most recent story really hurts my mama heart. I love children. I hurt when I see a child hurt. June 30^th parents lost track of their 5-year-old daughter while on deck 4. Exactly how this happened is under investigation. The ship was moving at sea. The child fell off deck 4 into the ocean and the father jumped in after her. Only around 20% or less of people who fall off of cruise ships survive. That means 80% or more don’t survive.  The father kept his daughter afloat while rescuers came. Thankfully both survived with little apparent injury.

 

As soon as they went over Disney Crew Members sounded the alert of a man overboard. They tossed life preservers to them. The bridge was notified and the ship stopped and turned around. A lifeboat was deployed, and rescuers safely returned the father and daughter to the ship in around 30 minutes.

 

Disney did their job to protect the guests in their care. I feel they went above and beyond to do so. They showed their exceptional dedication to safety and skill. You may think the parents are bad parents. I think they got complacent and felt over safe. But the dad did what he had to do to save his daughter’s life. We all make mistakes. I’m sure they feel horrible.

 

You may think this is the end of the story. But it may not be. For example, when you get on a ride at a Disney Park you are told to keep your body parts inside the car at all times. A 16-year-old, who in my opinion is old enough to know better, stuck his foot under the moving car of Alice in Wonderland at DLR. The wheels of the car sliced off his toes. Because of that incident doors were installed on the ride vehicles. These doors make it harder to load and unload, especially for those with mobility issues. There are countless other examples of this type of response to someone putting themselves in danger.

 

I can honestly see the 4^th deck of Disney Cruise Ships being closed in and all railings on the ship, including those on private verandas being raised to stop someone from doing this again. Is that a good idea? I don’t think so. It would detract from the fun of cruising! You would not be able to enjoy the deck and feel the ocean breeze as well. It is only being done because someone could not follow the simple rules! It would happen because someone did not think about safety and put someone else in danger.

 

 

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.

Why is Booking a Disney Cruise So Different than Booking a Disney Park Vacation??

 Why is Booking a Disney Cruise So Different than Booking a Disney Park Vacation??

Booking a Disney Cruise is different than a Disney Parks vacation. With both there is Airfare and Ground Transportation to the Park or Port. With the parks you book room, tickets, dining plan (if desired), do you want/need Trip Protection or Insurance, and near the trip date Advance Dining Reservations, and LightingLane Passes.

 

With a Disney Cruise you need to book early to save money. How early??? Anywhere from 15-18 months! Yep, That far in advance! Trust me! The prices go UP not down the closer you get to the sail date of a Disney Cruise. There are very few discounts on Disney Cruises. When will you fly in to the port area? Will you arrive a day or two in advance or on the day of the cruise? How will you get to the port? DCL Ground, Uber, other shuttle service or drive your own car or a rental? Do you want Trip Insurance? Do you wish to Prepay the Gratuities for the 4 main Crew Members who will take care of you, Cabin Host, Head Server, Server, and Assistant Server. (You can always add once on board if you wish.)

 

Once booked you need to watch out for the Pay In Full (PIF) date! Depending on the length of your cruise and if it is a special cruise, like a Maiden Voyage this will be 90 or 120 days before the cruise. That is the last day you can pay before Disney will cancel your reservation. (It is 30 days at the Parks.) The PIF date is also the last day YOU can cancel your reservation without losing any money! Very important date to remember!! There are other dates to be careful about!

 

Your Booking Window Opening date is VERY important!! This is the first day you can book those “extras” like Port Adventure, Adult Dining, Tastings, Spa and other onboard adventures. This date is determined by your Castaway Club Member level and can be between 75-123 days before the cruise. If your cruise PIF date is after your Booking Window Date you will need to PIF before you can book things. For example, if you are Gold Level in Castaway Club you can book at 90 days. If your PIF day is 120 days, you need to pay off by 90 day so you can book.

 

Online Check-In is another important date. This is the day you will go online and upload your Citizenship Documents and Security Photo along with picking your PAT (Port Arrival Time). If you want a early PAT time make sure you do your Online Check-In as soon as possible. When can you do your Online Check-In? Your Online Check-In date depends on your Castaway Club level. The date range from 30-40 days out.

 

You can find all these dates by looking at your reservation on the DCL Navigator App or by logging in on the Disney Cruise website and looking at your reservation. Just make sure you KNOW these dates!!

 

Now there is one more date that is important to know. That is the last day to alter Port Adventures and other booked plans. That is 3 days prior to your cruise. Up to then you can purchase onboard amenities to be delivered to your stateroom, add funds on your shipboard folio or Book those Adventures.

 

Another thing that makes a Disney Cruise different is Facebook Groups. There are Facebook pages for every cruise. Disney has NOTHING to do with these pages. A guest sailing on the cruise will start up a page. On this page you can ask questions, find out information, join a Fish Extender gift exchange and just get to know your fellow passengers before you get on the ship.

 

Clothing for the cruise and parks can be exactly the same, or you can decide to dress up!! Either is completely acceptable. Even on Formal Night with a few guests in Tuxes and gowns, a mix from Simi Formal all the way to just nice clothes and even shorts and t-shirts is acceptable. Some people theme their outfits to the restaurant they will be in or to the show they will see that night. Others decide they just don’t want to dress up at all, they are on Vaca and don’t want to bother. Are you going to dress up for Pirate Night or not? No choice is wrong. All of this takes time to plan.

Saving Money on Disney Vacation – Discounted Disney Gift Cards

Saving Money on Disney Vacation – Discounted Disney Gift Cards

Did you know you can save money on ANY Disney Vacation?? Yes, you can!! It is a simple hack that does not take too much time or effort to do. Let me share how.

Do you have a Target Debit or Credit Card?? If you do you can purchase Disney Gift Cards for 5% off!!! Sometimes Sam’s Club and CostCo have Discounted Cards. Also some shops on EBates, like BJ’s have 5% discount.

Let me tell you how to use these to the best advantage:

1.       Purchase One physical Disney Gift Card.

2.     1  Go to DisneyGiftCard.com.

a.       Load your card onto the site.

b.       Write down and keep track of the card account number and security number.

c.       Put that gift card in a safe place and SAVE IT.

3.      2 Now go purchase more Discounted Disney Gift Cards. This time you can do it online and purchase eGift Cards, not a physical card.

a.       Load the eGift Cards onto the Gift Card website.

b.       Transfer the eCard balance to your physical card balance.

c.       Delete the empty eGift card and information once transferred.

d.       You can load a maximum of $1,000 per physical card.

4.     3  Use your $1,000 card to make payments to your Disney Vacation!

a.       Put that card in a safe place so you can have it IF you get a refund!

5.    4   Hold onto that used card in case there is a refund!

a.       This is also the reason you need to combine the cards.

b.       You don’t want to be looking through a stack of $25 cards that you used to pay for a $3,000 trip to find the cards they refunded too.

6.     5  Only use that card ONCE for a single trip.

a.       If you have to cancel your trip Disney can’t refund more than $1,000 onto that card and any above you will have to arrange for extra eGift Cards to be sent. Save time and frustration and use different cards.

5% does not sound like much but I promise it adds up. You book a $2,500 Disney Cruise for 2 people. 5% is $150! That is Brunch at Palo plus $50!

These Discounted Cards can be used anywhere Disney Gift Cards are accepted. You can pay for your Disney Parks Resort Stay and Tickets, Food at most locations in the Parks, and Merchandise in most locations. You can pay for your Aulani Resort and Spa stay along with gifts from the shop and anything else paid for at the resort. On the Disney Cruise you can pay for the Cruise, Merchandise on the ship, Specialty Drinks and Foods, Gratuities, Ground Transportation and even Port Adventures you pay for on the ship! In other words ANYTHING you pay for on the ship can be paid for with Disney Gift Cards!! You can even book your future cruise or Placeholder using Disney Gift Cards! You can put the Gift Cards on your Shipboard Folio to cover all expenses on the ship! So that hypothetical savings of $150 on a Disney Cruise can easily turn into a LOT more!