Disney now has four wonderful ships in their fleet — the Disney Magic, the Disney Wonder, the Disney Dream, and the Disney Fantasy. There is a lot of adventure and fun available on a Disney cruise and often, it includes a visit to Disney’s own private island Castaway Cay.
Where Do You Wish to Go, Family Style?
On a Disney cruise, you can visit Alaska, Caribbean, and even Europe. If you’ve never been a cruise before and are seeking a bit of an adventure, then a Disney cruise the whole family will enjoy is yours for the booking! Of course, Disney has it down pat when it comes to families and fun. Even the bathrooms in each stateroom are set up to support families. The bathrooms are split – meaning that there is a sink and toilet in one compartment, and a sink and shower in a separate area so that family members can prepare for their day at the same time. Although Disney cruise ships are totally up-to-date and modern, they offer a taste of the luxury which passengers saw in the past on classic sailings across the Atlantic.
This island is actually owned by Disney and is reserved exclusively for the Disney Cruise Lines guests aboard a Disney ship. It’s a major port of call on any Disney Cruise in the Caribbean. Passengers enjoy swimming, boating, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The island is located within the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and is approximately 3 x 2 miles in size. It has its own post office and its own unique postmark. Friends and family back at home will enjoy receiving a postcard from Castaway Cay and will certainly want to talk to you about your vacation as soon as you get back. A few of the fantastic features you’ll find on this private island, are:
- BBQ dining in the great outdoors
- A gift shop with special Castaway Cay gifts
- Island theme music sent over the airwaves throughout the island.
- The Swimming Lagoon, Castaway Family Beach, the Snorkeling Lagoon, and all kinds of sports and much more will be enjoyed by the entire family.
- A private Teen Beach, where young people can enjoy kayaking, swimming, sports, and a lot more.
- A yoga class, a bar, and luxuriously relaxing open air massages with a view of the sea — all of these are available at the adults only beach of Serenity Bay.
- Organized runs and walks and nature trails and biking opportunities.
- A boat harbor that features paddle boats and kayaks for fun.
- At Port Adventures, the family will be able to interact with stingrays, take a glass bottom boat tour, go fishing, parasailing, snorkeling, and have a Jet Ski tour.
- Scuttle’s Cove which offers free childcare by Disney counselors who supervise kids in a large play area.
- Plenty of Disney character greetings on this island as well as a dance party with a couple of the kids’ favorite characters, Lilo and Stitch.
Some Facts About Castaway Cay
This island, formally known as Gorda Cay, was purchased by Disney after it was used for the 1984 Disney film, Splash. Fifty-five acres on the island have been developed, while the rest of the 1,000 acres are untamed and unspoiled and left natural. The climate is tropical and balmy, and guests enjoy Disney hospitality and a Bahamian oasis. Purchases on the island may be made with your Key to the World card.
Options for Disney Family Cruises
Cruise packages can include visits to the Walt Disney World Resort. If you’ve chosen such option, then you’ll be taken to the parks in a special Disney bus with portholes.
Special Attractions On Your Cruise
Disney has age-appropriate youth groups from babies to late teens, exquisite dining, live entertainment, movies, and character greetings — of course. A variety of swimming pools are themed and some are for specific age groups. Adults will enjoy music in several night clubs and lounges, as well as the luxurious spa and fitness facilities.
Eating on Board a Disney Ship
Dining on board your ship includes many types of meals and snacks, created by world-famous Disney chefs. European cruises are available, and all cruises feature some favorite Disney characters amongst the cast and crew.
Disney chefs are legendary and there are plenty on board Disney Cruise Line ships. The restaurants are varied and food is available 24 hours a day. No matter what type it is you’ll find something to eat while on your cruise adventure.
Food And Fun Together
Food on board a Disney ship has lots of character, and we mean that literally! Your kids will enjoy the chance for numerous character interactions while eating and at other times. Check out all of the many dining options as you book your voyage into fun and excitement. The Disney ships have casual dining, main dining, as well as exclusively adult dining and quick service.
Your meal ticket will be displayed in your cabin. Be sure to review the Personal Navigator – this daily newsletter will let you in on all of the activity and things to see and do, as well as what’s available to eat and drink while you’re having fun. This newsletter will also let you know the hours for dining, when the bars are open, and all about the rotational evening wear which may be suggested.
Watch For Special Offers
Disney offers specials at various times of the year, and these are constantly changing to give you a variety of choices. Some kids 17 and under can sail for free on select Alaskan cruises. During the summer, families can enjoy the Mediterranean at bargain prices. Florida residents can get in on some fantastic package deals to the Caribbean, at selected times of the year. US military members get discounts on some cruises.
Going, Going, Gone!
So, where and when do you want to go? Planning the family vacation of a lifetime at sea has never been easier. With your Caribbean or Alaska trip, Disney’s cruise line is a whole world unto itself. Any cruise that your family takes will let you sail into adventure with fun, excitement, and anticipation – and no hassles at all!