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!

Get Ready So Cal and the West Coast!!

Get Ready So Cal and the West Coast!!

To all our So Cal. Clients, Friends and Family. If you love Disney Cruise Line and want to get in on some local DCL magic get ready!!! Disney Magic and Disney Wonder with possible new ships are coming!!!

 

Starting Fall 2027 DCL will have Preferred Anchorage when in port at Catalina! They made an agreement to bring more guests to Catalina. This agreement will allow DCL to port there a possible 84 times a year! It starts as a 5-year agreement with 2 possible 5-year extensions. Summers DCL will port at Catalina on Tuesdays. Fall, Winter and Spring they can port Tuesdays and Saturdays! What this means from 2027 to 2042 DCL will be very active on the West Coast!!! The first of these dates should be announced sometime around June of 2026. These cruises will include Halloween on the High Seas and Merrytime Cruises!!!

 

What makes this more exciting is DCL has ordered 3 ships, from Meyer Werft that are between the size of the Classic-Class Disney Ship, Disney Magic and Wonder and the Dream-Class ships, Disney Dream and Fantasy. They will be 20% bigger than the Classic ships and significantly smaller than the Dream ships. They will carry between 400-600 more guests than the Classic ships and 1,000 less than the Dream Class. They will carry 3,000 guests. From the information I have been able to find the new ships should be able to go through the Panama Canal! West Coast could possibly have one of the new ships ported here!

 

For those of you who wonder why the larger ships can’t go through the Panama Canal here is the answer. All Disney Ships were built so they “fit” in the Panama Canal. The problem is they are too tall to go under the Bridge of the Americas. They would need to remove part of their height to make it possible. Take off a funnel to get through the Canal?? I don’t think that is going to happen.

 

Home porting in either Los Angeles or San Diego would be wise for DCL. They could take advantage of Land/Sea packages with the Disneyland Resort. There is also a significant increase in the Cruise Industry out of the West Coast within the last few years.

 

It is possible there will be a Christening and Maiden Voyage of one of the new ships out of San Diego or Los Angeles. I suggest putting some money aside, I think putting the funds on a Disney Gift Card. This could be saved and used for this cruise! If you have $23.75 or $25 per month you could save part the deposit up!! I’m thinking the ship for 2029 will start booking in the Summer of 2028.

 

How do you get ahold of Discounted Disney Gift Cards??? Do you have a Target Circle Debit or Credit Card?? You have a way to save 5% on Disney Gift Cards!! Yes, you heard that right. Purchase Disney Gift Cards at Target or Target online and get at $25 dollar card for $23.75. $47.50 gets you a $50 card. A $100 card costs $95. You can combine cards up to $1,000 on one card.

 

I recommend getting 1 $25 physical card. Then purchase eGift Cards that you can add to that card. Just go to DisneyGiftCards.com and log in using your Disney log in. You can combine the cards into $1,000 Cards. I’ll explain more in my next post.

Limited-Time Magic and Summer Florida Resident Ticket Announced for Cool Kid Summer at Walt Disney World

Limited-Time Magic and Summer Florida Resident Ticket

Announced for Cool Kid Summer at Walt Disney World

By: Disney Destinations – May 2, 225

 

Get ready to dance, play, and chill because Cool Kid Summer is taking over Walt Disney World Resort starting May 27 through September 1. This is a perfect destination for kids and kids-at-heart with DJ-Fueled dance parties, surprise character appearances, hands-on activities, and nonstop summer vibes.

 

Here’s a first look at what’s coming across Walt Disney World this summer.

 

New Florida Resident Summer Magic Tickets

Florida residents can make the most of summer with a special ticket offer just for them.

 

The Florida Resident Summer Magic Ticket offers four days of fun at Walt Disney World theme parks for just $60 per day (total price: $240, plus tax). This ticket will be available for purchase starting May 6, 2025, for visits from May 18 through September 27, 2025 (with an advance park reservation, subject to availability).

Looking for a shorter visit?  There are great options for that too:

·       3-Day Ticket: $75 per day (total price: $225, plus tax)

·       2-Day Ticket: $105 per day (total price: $210, plus tax)

 

New & Limited-Time Summer Magic Across Disney World

Cool Kid Summer at EPCOT

GoofyCore at CommuniCore Hall

 

Playtime gets a Goof-tastic twist. Get ready to dance and play along with Goofy in the immersive experience. Show off your best moves in DJ-led dance parties and join your favorite games with silly- or should we ay goofy? – twists, like Loopy Limbo and Parachutes ‘n’ Pipsqueaks.

 

To make way for all the goofiness CommuniCore Hall will temporarily close starting May 12 as it transforms into Goofy’s ultimate playground. CommuniCore Plaza and Mickey & Friends will remain open during this time. And while exploring EPCOT during Flower &Garden Festival, keep an eye out as Farmer’s Feast food options might be sprouting up at Florida Fresh just outside CommuniCore Hall.

 

Cool Kid Summer at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Adventure with New Activities

 

Get ready to roam, explore, and earn your adventure stripes! Buzz over to Rafiki’s Planet Watch for hands-on crafting activities all about pollinators, like bees and butterflies.

 

Earn a New Wilderness Explorer Badge.

For all who believe that believe the wilderness must be explored, you can unlock a special, limited-time Wilderness Explorers badge along the way. As guests make their way around the park, keep an eye out for some amazing animals, including tigers, okapi, and more.

 

A Celebration Sing-Along at Discovery Island

Wrap up a wild day with a musical moment you won’t forget! Join an interactive sing-along celebrating all the amazing animals spotted throughout the park – with original songs, playful storytelling, and plenty of chances to join in.

 

Cool Kid Summer at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Get Animated at Animation Courtyard

 

Jump into energetic fun at Animation Courtyard, where games and crafts will keep kids moving and creating all day long. From Magicians and jump rope performers to surprise character appearances, you never know what delightful moment is waiting around the corner!

 

And that’s not all! Two new indoor stage shows will also debut on May 27, adding even more fun for the whole family to enjoy:

·       “Disney Villains: Unfairly Every After: - Step into the reflective world of the Magic Mirror as Disney’s most infamous baddies take center stage in a show that’s as wickedly fun as it is spellbinding.

 

“The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” – Dive into a breathtaking retelling of the beloved animated film featuring fan-favorite songs, stunning visuals, and theatrical magic.

 

Cool Kid Summer at Magic Kingdom Park

Big Top Bash at Storybook Circus

 

Step right up to summer fun under the Big Top. Kids can join the DJ ringmaster for a summertime dance party full of pop-up stillness with Pluto. And with stilt walkers and jugglers performing all around, guests will feel like the ringmaster of fun,.

 

Galactic Blast at Tomorrowland

At Rocket Tower Plaza Stage, dance with Stitch at this high-energy DJ party. After grooving with the galaxy’s coolest alien, head inside Merchant of Venus with an out-of-this-world craft inspired by upcoming Disney-Pixar film “Elio.”

 

Later this summer, get ready for a star-kissed constellation of Disney wishes as “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” comes to life with beloved characters from “Encanto,” “Frozen,” “Coco” and more. Stay tuned for more details.

 

Extra Perks When Staying in the Magic

 

Make a splash right from the start. Guests of Disney Resort Collection hotels con enjoy free admission to one of our two water parks on the day of their check-in for free.

 

As a reminder, both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open this summer starting on May 21.

 

Guests of Disney Resort hotels and other select hotels can also enjoy 30 minutes of early theme park entry every day of their stay. Guest might even spot some of their favorite characters out in the park during this time.

 

And that’s just the beginning of the fun. Staying at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney Wilderness Lodge means extra fun for the entire family.

 

There, guests can enjoy even more Disney-themed activities, including character visits with set appearance times to help guests plan their day and an expanded itinerary of things to do with your family throughout your stay at these four resorts.

 

More Ways to Save During Cool Kid Summer

As a reminder, there are tons of deals that the whole family can jump into!

·       50% Off on Kids Tickets: Guests can purchase a 3-day or longer kids (ages 3-9) standard ticket for 50%

·       3-Day, 3-Park Ticket: Get a 3-day, 3-park ticket starting at $89 per day ($267 total, plus tax) for visits starting on April 6 through September 22, 225. This ticket is for admission to EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom (one theme park per day, not valid for admission to Magic Kingdom).

·       Disney Resort Room Deals: Save up to 30% on select Disney Resort hotel rooms when you stay longer for visits beginning August 1 through October 11, 2025. Special deals on rooms are also available for Florida Residents and Annual Passholders. Plus, Disney+ subscribers can save on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels – starting from $99 per night at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort – when staying two nights or longer most nights from June 29 to July 31, 2025.

 

There’s so much in store for summer 2025 at Disney World. Stay tuned for even more updates as we get closer to the kickoff of Cool Kid-Summer.

 

How to get to the Port for your Disney Cruise

 How to get to the Port for your Disney Cruise

You can start your Disney Cruise before reaching the ship!! Catch a DCL bus from Walt Disney World, the Airport or select hotels! Let them take you to the port to board your ship. These cost between $30-40 per person per trip.

Why take DCL Ground to the ship? The biggest perk to using DCL bus service is you can ignore your PAT (Port Arrival Time)! When your bus arrives you can just start the process of going through customs instead of waiting for your PAT. You may get to board earlier!

 

At the end of your trip you can have the DCL bus take you right back to the airport or Walt Disney World! This is a easy and stress-free way to return to the airport or go to Walt Disney World and it keeps the DCL fun going a little longer.

New DCL Busses

You will notice I mentioned that the DCL Bus can be used from the Airport to the ship. If you have read my blogs you will also know I strongly advise not flying in and arriving the day you board the ship. Flying in the day you board has too many risks and it is too easy to cause avoidable stress and you could even miss your cruise. I recommend flying in at least the day before so you can avoid stress and make sure you make it onto the ship. I also recommend it so you have an evening of relaxation and a night of rest before boarding. Remember, if there is ANY flight delay or cancelation you could miss your trip! It is not like going to WDW or Universal where you may just miss part of your trip. You miss the boat you miss the trip! No trip insurance? You lose the money!

 

How do you use the option from the airport to the port if you are flying the day before?? Look for a hotel that has a free shuttle service from the airport to the hotel and back. Take the shuttle to the hotel when you get there. In the morning take the hotel shuttle back to the airport and catch the DCL bus to the port.

 

The transportation required varies by port. If you fly into MCO for a cruise out of Port Canaveral it is a long drive from the airport to the port. Coming in the day before you need to decide if you will get a hotel in Orlando, near the airport or a hotel closer to the port. It is about a 90-minute drive between the airport to the port. I suggest renting a car at the airport and driving to a hotel near the port. Many car rentals have return locations near the port that have shuttles from the drop off location to the port. I have the car overnight so I can get dinner and maybe even run to a store for any items I forgot to pack and need. In the morning, I drop the car off at the drop off location and take the shuttle to the port.

 

Disney Ground Transportation costs $30-$40 per person each way. For a group of 4 or more it may cost less to rent a car to get between the airport and port. Again, on the way home the car rentals have shuttles at the port to pick you up at the end of the cruise to take you to where you pick up your car. You just drive to the airport and drop it off there.

 

However you get to the port have a great cruise!

 

The Last Night and Debarkation Day on a Disney Cruise

The Last Night and Debarkation Day on a Disney Cruise

The saddest days of a cruise, debarkation day. You’ve had a fun time on the ship and now it is back to reality. What do you need to know?

 

Debarkation preparation actually starts the night before your cruise ends. You have to make choices the day before you get off on how you will get off. You have 2 choices, Express Walk Off or Let the Porters carry your bags:

1.       You can carry all your luggage off the ship. If you are traveling lite this is a great thing! This is called “Express Walk Off”

a.       You will not have to put your bags out the night before.

b.       You will have to keep all your bags with you until you disembark.

c.       You will not have to wait for your group to be called.

d.       Once Customs has cleared the ship you can leave.

e.       Show your Keep to the World Card to the Crew Member at the door

f.         Go through customs in the port

2.       You can set your luggage out by 10 pm the last night on the ship

a.       You will be given tags with a character on them to attach to your bags

b.       You will go to breakfast, either in the restaurant you ate at the night before or at the buffet

c.       You will wait for your character to be called to join the line to disembark

d.       You will show your Key to the World or Magic/DisneyBand+ to the Crew Member

e.       You will then go through customs in the terminal

f.         After going through customs you will find your luggage in the terminal. It will be placed in a section with the character on your tags.

g.        If you use a porter to assist you it is appropriate to tip them several dollars per bag.

What NOT to pack in the bags the porters take off the ship:

·       ID and Citizenship Paperwork for each guest

·       Key to the World Card and/or Magic/DisneyBand+ for each guest (you will need this to disembark)

·       Car/Home Keys

·       Medication

·       Electronics

·       Valuables

·       Fragile items

·       Tickets for your travel home

·       Anything you will want easy access to before you can get to your bags or home

A quick recap:

·       Choose “Express Walk Off” debarkation or let the porters take your bags off the night before

·       Leave your bags out by 10 pm if you do not choose Express Walk Off

·       Be out of your cabin by 8 am, 7:30 am is better

·       Have breakfast either in the restaurant you ate at the night before or the buffet

·       Be ready by 8:30 or 9 am to walk off the ship

·       Show your Key to the World Card or Magic/DisneyBand+ to the Crew Member as you leave the ship

·       Have ID/Citizenship Paperwork ready to show at the port

·       Pick up your bags in the Terminal

·       Enjoy your trip home

 

Construction of The Disney Destiny!

 Construction of The Disney Destiny!

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Disney Adventure had to do her Float Out before the Disney Destiny because of the size of the ship. Work, on the Disney Destiny can be completed inside the Meyer Werft shipyard facility until they are ready to do the pre Sea Trial final testing of the systems. I’m expecting within the next 3 to 4 months Disney Destiny will be Floated Out.

 

Disney has announced that the building of the Destiny Ship is finished but testing and installation of special systems by Disney Imagineers are being installed. Once the testing of the ships systems that can be done inside the shipyard building are completed, Destiny will fallow her sisters and Float Out. There they will do the final pre Sea Trials testing and the she will float down the Ems River for her Sea Trials.

 

During the Sea Trials they will push the ship to the maximum. They will see how fast she can go, how quickly she will stop, and her turning radius along with other things. They will test the ships engines in real world situations, generators, electoral systems, ventilation systems and everything else. Once Sea Trials are completed the ship will be turned over to Disney Cruise Line.

 

After the hand off The Disney Destiny will take a 2 week transatlantic trip to the US. While on her way the Imagineers will finish up the last of the work installing things, crew will learn their jobs and performers will have their final practice before taking guests.

 

Once in the US Disney Destiny will be Christened and go on a few media cruises before taking her Maiden Voyage November 20^th, 2025.