I’m a bit of a cruise fanatic. Over the years, I’ve been on over 25 sailings across the major cruise lines, and I’ll be the first to admit that they can be pricey endeavors . But to me, the included food, entertainment and service are almost always worth it — and that sentiment is especially true for Disney Cruise Line.
The liner offers tangible Mickey magic with minimal pre-planning required. Just about everything you need is included in the fare, like thematic and immersive dining, character meet-and-greets, and Broadway-style entertainment.
If you’re looking for pluses beyond the usual bells and whistles, the mouse offers plenty of that. There’s a lot to choose from, though, and trying to decide what's worth the splurge can be a bit overwhelming. Life’s just full of tough choices, isn’t it?
I’ve sailed with Disney 10 times, aboard all of its ships, and have experienced every one of its upgraded offerings. I’ve also tapped Disney Cruise Line expert and host of The Main St Dish podcast, Bethany Vinton , to share her insider intel.
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular upcharge offerings and whether they’re worth the splurge, from two Mickey-loving experts.
Upcharge dining
Disney’s main dining is applauded, from the spirited Lion King -themed musical restaurant aboard the Disney Destiny to the Mardi Gras-fueled Tiana’s Place on the Disney Wonder. But if you want something a little more upscale — and for adults only — there are other restaurants you can try if you’re willing to pay.
The verdict:Worth it, depending on the restaurant. Brunch at the Italian spot Palo, which is also open for dinner, is a favorite of mine — the all-you-care-to-enjoy, multi-course extravaganza runs $55 per person. Vinto agrees. “Palo is absolutely worth it. The cost is low for the value you get, and the food is consistently delicious.” You don’t have to take our word for it — If you’ve ever met someone who’s been, they’ve likely gushed about the chicken parm and almond croissants.
For something fancier, there's Enchanté, a French-inspired restaurant by a three-Michelin-starred chef. But dinner can cost a pretty penny. “I don’t think the level of service exceeds Palo enough to justify the massive jump in price, especially when you’re talking about spending nearly 5x more,” explains Vinton. She adds that the food and menu are solid, but additional upgrades, like wine pairings, can quickly add up.
Princess experiences
A staple of Disney theme parks can also be found on the cruise. At the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, your child can feel like a prince or princess as they’re transformed into their favorite character, knight or sea captain. It’s essentially a salon dedicated to the tiniest of cruisers, who get glow-ups that can include costumes, makeup and hairstyling.
The verdict:You can’t put a price tag on memories — and the photos that come with them — and that holds especially true here. This is so much more than a makeover. Disney pulls out all the stops to make sure kids feel like a star for the day, whether that’s with the personalized attention from a whimsical “Fairy Godmother’s apprentice” or the signature final reveal. Packages start around $99, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a cruiser who doesn’t think it’s absolutely worth it.
Concierge
Like other major liners, Disney offers concierge-level staterooms and suites. And they’re pretty spectacular, including a two-story “Hercules” Hero Royal Suite on the Disney Destiny. Guests sailing concierge have access to an exclusive lounge with free alcoholic beverages as well as other perks, like a private sundeck and pre-arrival services.
The verdict:Skip it. “The level of service in concierge is immaculate, but honestly, the service is already fantastic throughout the entire ship,” says Vinton. She adds that while she enjoyed its many perks, she likely wouldn’t splurge again. “There’s so much to see and do onboard that you almost feel pressured to stay in concierge spaces just to get your money’s worth.”
The spa
What could be better than hitting the spa while on vacation? Every Disney ship has a Senses Spa & Salon , which offers treatments like facials, massages and even acupuncture. But it’s the signature “rainforest room” — a relaxing thermal suite offered separately from services — that gets all the attention. Think: tranquil, soothing music and an absolutely zen atmosphere.
The verdict:A spa pass to access the heated ceramic loungers, private hot tub and aromatherapy showers in the “rainforest room” is available for both the day and the length of the cruise (price depends on demand and sailing, but is more affordable than individual services) and is definitely worth the splurge. This is a great way to get away from the crowds and enjoy tranquility without having to do a formal service.
Alcoholic beverages
Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer a traditional alcoholic beverage package, though guests 21+ are permitted to bring one bottle of wine or six beers on board, with corkage fees in restaurants at $20. Disney offers refillable beer mugs and wine packages that can add to the savings. Soda is complimentary, but if you want a frothy piña colada, you’ll have to pay the upcharge.
The verdict: Worth it — and not just for the buzz. Disney’s bars are fully immersive, like a Captain Hook-themed speakeasy with perfectly crafted old-fashioneds and a Haunted Mansion-themed lounge. They’re more than just places to imbibe, and the drinks are just as thoughtful as the decor.
Tastings
Mixology and guided tastings are a great way for adults to connect, whether it’s on a romantic vacation or parents looking for a break ( and let’s be real: it can be nearly impossible to get them to leave the incredibly well-themed kids’ spaces ). Disney offers a range of options — tastings range from beer to bourbon to amari, and there’s even a chocolate-and-liquor tasting that includes champagne.
The verdict:Some are worth it, but choose carefully. “If you’re interested in doing one, I’d suggest focusing on reserve or specialty tastings like bourbon, old-fashioned or gin,” Vinton recommends. She adds that some of the more basic tastings, like those that are beer-focused, are difficult to justify the price tag. If you are a beer lover, you’re better off heading to the ship’s British-style pubs or sports bars for global pours. (The Pirates of the Caribbean-themed Cask & Cannon on the Disney Destiny is a personal favorite. Order the exclusive Dead Man Tell No Ales.)
Cafes
While standard hot coffee is free, a visit to the ship’s Cove Café or one of its many themed cafes for a latte will cost extra.
The verdict:Do it. If you’ve ever dreamed of an adorable Minnie Mouse or Stitch sitting atop your coffee, the genie has granted your wish. Disney cruises are known for their latte art, which imprints a character design of your choice on your cup of joe (or, better yet, an espresso martini). To pack in the savings, be sure to grab a loyalty punch card, which rewards you with a free drink after you purchase five.
Disney-sanctioned excursions
Excursions are a cornerstone of cruising and can greatly enhance your vacation, especially in places like Alaska and the Caribbean, where getting out to explore is a huge part of the experience. But they can be very expensive. And especially so if you book directly through Disney. Most destinations typically offer private company excursions that are not directly related.
The verdict:Absolutely. After more than 30 cruises, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of booking your excursion directly through your liner. This guarantees that the ship won’t leave without you, which will result in a massive headache — and a big expense.
Room selection
Disney offers a range of rooms that vary in price, from cozy “inside” cabins to sprawling suites with private balconies. At the time of booking, you can choose stateroom type and even the exact deck and positioning (aft, midship, or forward) your room will be located on.
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Related: The best family-friendly cruises
The verdict:Depends on your personality. I’m pretty picky about my room — I need a private balcony room close to the main pool deck. But if you’re a little less Type A ( sorry, I like to be close to the action! ), skip choosing a room and let Disney do it for you. This is called a “guaranteed” room and while you choose the specific category, like Deluxe Family Oceanview, Disney chooses the exact room. This can offer significant savings if you’re OK with the exact location being a mystery until closer to your sailing.
Private island cabanas
If you’re lucky to have Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, as part of your itinerary, you might be attracted to its private cabanas. And there are two favorites to pick from: Serenity Bay, dedicated exclusively to guests 18+, and Family Cabanas, character-themed cabanas on a dedicated family beach.
The verdict: Yes and no.“The Serenity Bay cabana was absolutely worth the money, and I would do it again every single time,” Vinton says. “Your cabana attendant only manages a select few cabanas, so they’re incredibly attentive. They handle basically anything you need, drive you to and from lunch and even take you back to the ship afterward. It felt relaxing, seamless and premium in all the right ways.”
On the other hand, Vinton noted that she might not rebook the family cabanas, specifically the newer Mickey and Minnie Cove cabanas. “They’re adorable — bright, lively and full of fun Disney details and colors — but the actual beach experience was pretty lackluster.” She adds that the personalized attention felt less so because of a higher capacity.
