When it comes to cruising, Disney does it right. All of the magic, with some of the most beautiful backdrops in the world. Just like the theme parks, there are a few things you can take with you to make your cruising experience a bit more magical.
1. A cup or mug with a lid. Tervis tumblers or even the refillable souvenir mugs from Disney World are great for this. The soda is complimentary on the pool deck, but the cups provided are tiny! There are mugs and cups available for purchase on board if you wish.
2. Magnets! This is a fun way to decorate your door (and help you find it easily down the long halls!) Personalized magnets are less likely to "walk away" and you can find lots of options on Etsy.
3. Lanyards. If this is your first Disney Cruise, a lanyard is helpful to carry your key card with you. If you've cruised with Disney before, you'll get lanyards as a gift.
4. Treats or cash for your service staff. Gratuities can be prepaid or paid on board, but some of the cast members will become close to you - almost like family. These people live on the ship for extended times, so sometimes things that they can't get on the ship are a nice treat. Popular items - mints, gum, Pringles, Girl Scout Cookies, International Calling Cards, sample size toiletries, chocolate. Keep in mind that they don't have a lot of space in their quarters, so consumables or small items are best. Cash is always appreciated, of course.
6. Beer or Wine - Unlike many cruise lines, Disney allows you to carry 2 bottles or wine OR 6 cans/bottles of beer per adult age 21 or over on board as long as YOU transport it yourself. Some of the transfer services will even allow for a complimentary grocery stop on the way to the port. If you take a full bottle of wine to dinner, you'll pay a corking fee. So take it in your Tervis instead. :) If you choose to order drinks on the ship, watch for the Drink of the Day. Often fun and reasonably priced.
7. Pirate Gear - Arrgh! Disney Cruises have Pirate Nights and it is always accompanied by some serious fun. Many cruisers dress up, some do not, but if you have younger kids, getting into the spirit of the evening is definitely the way to go. Disney will provide you with a pirate bandana, but eye patches, sashes, and even full on Captain Jack gear will be appropriate. Alaskan Cruises do not have fireworks or pirate night, but you're in for some Frozen themed fun instead!
8. Work out clothes - if you're into that sort of thing. Each ship has a workout facility and a track on board. Also, there is a 5K on Castway Cay first thing in the morning. Keep an eye on your Navigator for details on how to sign up.
9. Drink carrier - Dad can run up to the buffet to grab breakfast for everyone and coffee for him and mom, but uh-oh - how can he carry everything back to the room? Pack one of these from your local fast food joint and all of the other coffee jugglers will think you're a genius.10 - and most important - pack your passport (recommended) or original birth certificate with the raised seal. All cruisers 16 and older must also have a Government Issued ID (Driver's License). They really will not let you on the ship without it. Also pack a copy.
ºoº Expert Tip! Be prepared to put down a deposit on your next cruise - there is always a great offer available to you on board. Once you leave the ship, the offer isn't available so plan ahead and be aware. If you use a travel planner, be sure to have her information with you to add her to your booking. You won't regret booking another cruise, but lots of cruisers regret NOT booking their next on board. ºoº
I'd love to help you plan your Disney Cruise adventure! Email me at katie@hihovacations.com
Bon Voyage!
Katie
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