What I Loved and Hated About Cruising With Disney
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- čas přidán 20. 06. 2024
- For YEARS I’ve wanted to try a Disney cruise and last week I finally did it. I’ve just disembarked the Disney Magic and I thought I knew what to expect from a Disney cruise but this cruise was the biggest culture shock ever.
In this video we cover my review of the ship, food, entertainment and general value for money.
Timestamps:
00:00 What I Expected From a Disney Cruise
00:42 Why I Decided to Take a Disney Cruise
00:54 Embarkation
01:25 Muster Drill
02:00 The Disney Magic
02:50 The Disney Funnel and Top Decks
03:08 Included Soda
03:45 What I Usually Look For in a Cruise
03:55 The Buffet (and Opening Times)
04:40 Room Service
05:10 Our Cabin
06:25 Dinner - Rotational Dining
07:20 Dress Codes and Formal Night
07:38 Service
07:45 Animators Palate
08:30 The Food
08:40 Onboard Theatre Shows
08:48 Tangled The Musical
09:55 Mickey Ears
10:25 Door Decorations
10:43 Towel Animals and Chocolates
11:35 Breakfast and Mickey Waffles
12:05 Swimming
12:15 Movies
12:25 Daily Schedule and Character Waving
12:45 Live Music
13:03 Kids Clubs
13:25 My Promenade Deck Discovery
13:50 Frozen at Sea
14:15 Adult only Activities
14:55 Late Night Entertainment
15:00 My Undercover Mission
15:10 Is a Disney Cruise For Me?
15:39 Cruise Price Comparison
16:17 The Strange Thing I Found in My Cabin
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One thing my professor taught us on the first day of our cruise course is that every passenger has the right line for them. This is no question NOT the one for me. Cruising with that many kids and no drink package . . . hell at sea.
Yep variety is the spice of life 😀❤️
And what college is this where you can take a course on cruising? Sign me up!!
@@jlaz1000 I have a degree in Torusim and Travel Services from Algonquin College in Ottawa, Canada.
There’s a drinks package
They also have adults only bars…
Finally an honest unsponsored review, thank you
I mean, that's why we appreciate Emma, and this channel ❤️💯
Nobody else matches the detail
Second dining/first theater show is DEFINITELY the way to go on Disney Cruises! Perk: If you HAVE kids on this schedule, the kids club will come and pick your kids up from the tail end of dinner, so you can finish your meal in peace with a glass of wine, and then go hang out sans kids for the evening hours. It's better planned out than any other cruise we've ever been on in that regard.
That makes me so sad
Not currently unfortunately due to the pandemic. This was our exact reasoning for choosing the later dining time, but it still worked out for us both cruises anyway.
OMG I love you. I’m booking a cruise next month.
This confuses me. I'd have thought that a lot of kids would be too tired for the 2nd theatre show so first dining would make for a quieter theatre experience.
Could someone in the know explain this to me?
Hah I remember the kids club. I was like 3 and didn’t understand what was going on, I cried my entire time there. Thought my parents left :(
Can I just say, those people who like the video before you've ever watched it all. I love you guys.
If I click part way through then I don't forget when it's done.
I do that to the channels I really like, because so often, the video has ended and the next one is starting, and I've forgotten to like..so prefer to like, then watch.. A little bit addicted to your channel lol
You are the absolute best, appreciate it lots!! ❤️❤️
I usually click first on my subscribed channels. If I subscribe then it’s a sure bet I’ll like the video
Part of my routine on my favorite vloggers. You’re welcome!
Plenty of people would find the Disney cruise experience to be heavenly. For me, it would be a trip in quite the opposite direction! But even a curmudgeon like me can appreciate the creative theming and attention to detail that Disney puts into, well, everything.
Haha, Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
The trick for the free soda is to bring your own 32 or 44 oz tumbler aboard the ship so you only have to fill it up once or twice a day rather than using the small provided paper cups.
Use the cups provide for ice cream and not the tiny cones… your welcome 😂
Those big tumblers go flat before you drink even half
@@asadb1990so true!
@@asadb1990 You underestimate how much some people drink.
Sounds like a plan for free diabetes to me.
I went on a 7 day cruise to the Caribbean with my family of 4 in a balcony cabin on Carnival out of Miami in August. With prepaid gratuities it was $2,700. My coworker went on a 3 night cruise on Disney with her family of 5 in December and it was $11,000. There are a lot of factors that play to the price, but that’s a hell of a difference. I’m so happy my boys never really cared for Disney. But, for those who do I’m sure it’s a wonderful experience.
It's a wonderful experience if you're brainwashed by a massive cooperation but well done for protecting your kids from that horror
Is a Disney cruise for me? No. However, I view it as a themed cruise & would expect to pay more for whatever theme it is, be it '80s or Star Trek or Golden Girls, etc. You're absolutely right: Disney cruises are perfect for Disney fans & I'm glad they have the choice of so many ships & itineraries. 👍🏻
That’s true! Disney themed. 😀💕
I also appreciate that it is not one big "Frat party".
its also not full of moody teenagers and drunk passengers
I think i would like the cruise, not sure it is worth the $
Absolutely, also no gambling or those horrible cheesy lounge lizard type acts or foul mouthed comedians that...hmm.. Some other cruise lines seem to have in abundance. Just Great Broadway calibre shows. Plus their theatre also shows current movies- we watched Wreck It Ralph and Frozen 2 on board one of their ships before it was released to the public. They're also the only cruise line that can do 🎆 from their ships. Not to mention their service is unmatched. That alone is worth the price difference to me.
It’s so unusual, I have zero interest in Disney, zero interest in cruising, and yet I can’t stop watching your videos! Keep up the great work 👍
As someone with 50+ cruises with Disney, here is my list of tips and tricks:
Wear your swim suit under clothes when you get on board, and go straight to the pool. Most pools will always be crowded so change in a bathroom if you carry a swim suit in a bag, or take off everything and start swimming before all the crowds. When things start picking up, you can go to one of the all you can eat buffets if you haven’t already stuffed your face with top deck food.
If you are going to go to castaway key, do the marathon (even if you aren’t a fitness person) and you will be able to get extra island and a better choice of beach chairs time after you finish (you are also not required to run at any point)
On the magic/wonder on deck 8 there is a secret entrance to cabanas at the very very end, you’ll have to go up a spiraling staircase! Very secret.
Bring a water bottle and/or a water cooler to refill at the drink station instead of using the small cups
Use the cups at the drink station for ice cream instead of the small ice cream cones.
The calmest area in sail away is the back of the ship, enjoy the party for awhile and then enjoy the peace of watching land fade into the horizon.
You can order cocktails from bars to be delivered to your dining table!
You can also order menu items from the restaurants to your room (depending) and most room service items are free :)
Med bay carries items for sea sickness if you need it
Definitely go to the muster station, even if it’s no longer required, not only for safety but also because it helps you get a better lay out of the ship if anything unfortunate does happen.
Look for hidden mickeys! There everywhere!
You can split the bed, but you will have to ask guest services or a steward to do it for you.
Get magnetic or hooked/hangers bags for toiletries so your bathroom isn’t crowded and you have everything roll around inside.
The rooms at the back of the boat (aft) rock less, and the closer forward the more the boat will sway. If you have sea sickness, plan to have a room at the back.
If you are one of the last people on castaway key, lots of shovels, buckets, sand castle stuff is left by people. If you are planning on going to more beaches after take advantage.
You can request to dine alone, (without another family at the table) but you will have to request this on the first couple days as seating is limited.
If something isn’t up to the Disney standard (rarely happens) let someone know (politely of course) and they will do everything they can to make it right. We had a room smell like… well, pee. And we got free cups, fruit bowl, and we the problem continues, we got to party on the Mickey slide (this was on the fantasy) at pirate night (this is not a normal thing lol, and I got a ton of pics hahahah) but please be cretinous and don’t complain just to get free stuff!!!!
There are lots of Disney outlet stores near Port Canaveral, so save money buying stuff from there instead of paying for expensive items on the cruise.
There’s lots more but that’s all I can remember rn.
It's absolutely crucial that people pick the right cruise for themselves and their family. I am not a fan of budget cruising, and I would be miserable in a Carnival Cruise, or something similar. Cruises like Disney or Viking are more expensive, but there is a certain level of service and care that makes it worth every penny. It's important that people do their research. Thank you so much for giving your perspective!
Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
Can I ask why you think you would be miserable on a Carnival Cruise? There is lots to see and do on those ships as well as RCCL & Others. No they aren't Disney but that's the whole point, every cruiseline offers something different that is what allows them to all still be around. No judgement just curious since it doesn't sound like you've ever cruised Carnival.
I completely agree! With our kids we go on Disney cruises. We did try a Royal Caribbean Cruise and surprisingly our teenager was not a fan. He called RCCL the McDonalds of the seas bc the icecream machine never worked. Our younger girls liked it, but my husband and I were not fans of the kids clubs bc they seemed to close too much. When it’s just my husband and myself, we don’t mind going on a Carnival cruise. We love to people watch and there are definitely some interesting people on the cruise. The service is not that great but we enjoy the comedy club, guys burgers, and the “let loose” feel. We want to try other cruiselines but our kids love Disney. We plan to retire in Florida and will try many cruiselines. We really just love cruising!
@@garlandajoyce1980 it's just the different atmosphere, culture, and size of the ship. It's just not for me. I have cruised carnival once, and it was okay, but I wouldn't go on another one.
I love carnival, as me and my wife are still like to party and have a good time. The other cruise lines had to many fuddy Duffy stuffy people. The newer carnival ships are awesome. Royal is nice and has way more opulence feel but I prefer to let loose when I cruise.
This was a well-balanced review. Having seen your instagram posts I was afraid you were totally bummed out by it. I still think a 3-day cruise is just too intense on any cruise line. I have been on DCL six times -- we do the door decorating and fish extenders -- but I confess that my in-laws paid for it (indulgent grandparents that they are -- they are in their 80s and also cruise Disney without children or grandchildren!). I'd never be able to afford it on our own and wouldn't spend that kind of money if I could do two cruises for the same amount of money.
It’s so strange with Instagram because so many people message me and say this looks like it was your favourite cruise. Umm… 🤣🤣🤣 Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
I would love to have time to do multiple cruises a year, but as it is, I only have time for one, so don't mind paying the premium. That said, I'm still interested to try some other cruise lines in the future.
Not enough ports and too expensive for older accommodations. Nope. With royal Caribbean having so much for kids to do as well as adults, what would be the reason to pay Disney? For the theme might as well go to Orlando Florida. 🤷♀️
Hi Emma, I’m a Disney lover and am hoping to go on the Disney Dream in the next couple of years. I am glad to see a balanced review from someone who isn’t Disney mad, but has obvious experience with cruising. It has been so helpful to get the perspective from someone who isn’t in the Disney bubble and I have been looking at your other videos for tips on what will be my first cruise. Thank you 🌸
I just got off our Disney Cruise. The tipping envelopes came with a sheet of paper that told your servers and steward what their tip was. You were just expected to put the sheet of paper into the envelop and give it to the staff with your thanks. You could put additional amounts if you wished, but there was no pressure to do so. Once I saw what was expected, I was completely fine with the process. We went on this cruise with a discount, so it was very much worth the cost.
This is exactly how tipping used to be before everything got electronic. If gave you an opportunity to personally thank your staff on the last night/day of the cruise for their service. It was very personal and so much nicer.
I’ve been on 30 cruises. Disney is my top choice for cruise line. It’s expensive, but worth it to do it at least once… I’ve done Disney twice. We went around Halloween so we dressed up twice during the week long cruise; once for the pirates theme, once for Halloween. It was a blast.
My favorite upper class cruise line is Celebrity.
My favorite destination is Alaska.
My favorite budget cruise line is Carnival. And, yes, they are the “fun ship”.
I used to contract on the magic from 2002-2007. I'm a welder and a mechanic. I changed a lot of pumps and valves and welded and installed a lot of stuff I seen in this video. We had passenger cabins and did anything they did and we could go to crew areas. They have their own bars on deck 1 on the bow and stern. Beer was much cheaper and we usually ate in the crew mess which was free. It was a cool job but a few times I was stuck on it for 2 months. It sailed out of my home town at the time , Port Canaveral Florida. One thing is the kids can drive u crazy and if I ever hear it's a small world ever again it will be too soon.
Great video! I’ve been on 11 Disney cruises now, one of which was a Staycation cruise. The staycation cruises were completely different to a normal Disney cruise. On a normal cruise (non-covid times), there is live music (usually they have a band, singers etc around the ship), they have more variety acts and keep the adult areas open later at night with a DJ, comedy shows, live music etc. They also have more parties on top deck that include fireworks and buffets. My tip to anyone who did a staycation cruise and is not sure what they think - please do a normal one and give it another chance!
Ahh yeah that‘a good to know, thanks Grace 😀❤️
Very strange they didn't have any of that on the UK cruise. I wonder why? Surely they could have found musicians and acts somewhere as the UK is one of the best countries in the world for music and the industry took a big hit.
There is usually more live music in the atrium and at the promenade bar. Not usually covers bands, but they had a good one in keys over the summer.
@@barrettpickett5603 There's 4 in the fleet but they do a lot of different itineraries :)
Completely agree.
2:12 is exactly why the Magic/Wonder are our favorites. We've done the Dream/Fantasy and prefer the smaller ships. We've done the RCI mega ships too and were really disappointed by how much of a 'number' we felt like. Something out there for everyone. Love the channel and glad you made these vids.
I have two trips on Disney with my children that will never be forgotten, perfect cruise for the times. I can still feel the emotions from those trips, makes me teary just to think about it.
I have to give it to them - animating the characters that people create at dinner looks absolutely amazing.
"It was originally created as Galaxy here in the U.K., and it seems like for some reason they changed the name and it is Dove in other countries."
Actually, it started in Chicago as Dove in 1939. It wasn't introduced to the U.K. as Galaxy until 1960. Then in 1986 the business was sold (along with both the Dove and Galaxy brand names) to the international confectionary company Mars, Inc.
Oh really?! Interesting! Good to know 👏🏼👏🏼
I was going to comment the same thing. LOL Um, Dove is a legit chocolate company and has been around for awhile. Everyone has to take a "dig" at the US.
Here in Austria it's also named Dove
@@jenniferlynn5989 who is taking a dig at the US lol
@@wintergirll me.
We love Disney cruises. Extremely safe for kids - staff move kids all about the ship in their own passageways while never coming in contact with any passengers.
I had no idea! I’d love to know more about this. As a mom of 3 considering a Disney Cruise this is a HUGE detail to ease my worried mind.
As an avid Disney fan, and a 14-tike Disney Cruiser, I'd like to say that all of the things you said were fair. I would also like to credit your other videos for encouraging my wife and I to try other cruise options sailing from Florida for next year. Excellent work!
Thanks so much, really appreciate that! ❤️❤️
1939
1939: Dove Milk Chocolate
In 1939, Leo Stefanos, an ice cream shop owner in Chicago, invented the “DOVEBAR.” Stefanos' Dove Candies & Ice Cream became a powerhouse, selling 1 million bars annually by the 1970s. Love your shows!
Literally went to the comments to make sure someone had said that these are not originally from the UK.
Seems more complicated than that, while Dove Ice Cream bars where first made in the US in 1939, the chocolate bar was first developed by Mars in 1960 as Galaxy before being launched in the US under the Dove brand in 1991 (after Mars acquired Dove in 1986). So Dove Chocolate bars are from the UK, sorry.
@@disclancer in 1939 the chocolate was invented and used on Dove bars. After that fact, do whatever you want to do.
So Mars was selling a chocolate invented by a company they wouldn't own or partner with for nearly 30 years in the UK in the 1960's? Which they then introduced in a solid chocolate bar, identical to the UK chocolate, some years after they bought said company, initially using a small test launch to see how US consumers would find the flavour? Believe me I've been eating Galaxy since the 80's and they didn't change after Mars is stated to have bought Dove and Emma seems to think they taste the same today, so, do with that what you will...
@@disclancer I'm afraid you'll have to reword your question or suggestion or statement or whatever you're trying to say. Here's the fact and after I tell you this fact you may believe whatever you wish to believe that makes you happy. in 1939 the Dovebar was invented. Do with that fact what you will. You can't change history unless you have a Time Machine, but whatever makes you happy makes me happy too.
Love your review. As always you put a lot of thought and detail into it. It think this shows the importance of knowing yourself when picking a cruise line. You know what you enjoy and what you value and take all recommendations with that in mind. Good lesson for all cruisers.
Definitely right about there being a cruise for everybody. I like that the ships don’t have a casino and lots of bar so I never had to worry about my kids. I also like the rotational dining and the food so I don’t have to pay for specialty dining or a drinks package to get soft drinks. I’m willing to branch out and try other lines, but I’ll always compare it to Disney 😂
Very true! 😂❤️ Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
I wouldn't worry Melina even on other cruise lines kids are not allowed to play in the casinos or drink alcohol 😉 Agree about the soft drinks though but no adult drinks package on disney puts me off.
@@sherrjo thanks, I have visions of some ships being more like a frat party at sea. I’m probably completely off base it’s just a perception I have. I watch all these videos to alleviate my concerns 😂
@@sherrjo They are not encouraging alcohol since there are so many kids on board.
@@sherrjo i heard the kids have to walk through smoke filled casinos to get to the kids clubs on Carnival ships. Gross.
It was nice seeing what a Disney cruise is like from a passenger point of view. I worked on both the Dream and the fantasy but never got to experience it from a guest side.
One thing amongst many things that I enjoy about sailing ⛵️ with Disney is they actually keep the kiddos out of the adult only areas.
My first cruise experience was with Disney. I absolutely loved it! The entertainment, food, staff etc were amazing.
Great review! I didn’t think it would be your cup of tea, but glad you liked it. These cruises are definitely different during Covid and that means lots of things missing … live music, full shows, day and evening activities .. there really is so much missing.
Like you say though, there is a cruise line for everyone!
P.s. The split bathrooms are a firm favourite of a lot of Disney cruisers. So much easier to get ready when you have a separate shower/toilet! Joa
Very very true! Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
This brings back many memories. When we came back to the cabins I would take the chocolates and keep it until i went home. Disney cruise was the best cruise I've been on
We were able to meet quite a few families via disboards before our cruise. Probably 100 or so families. And we arranged fish extender gift exchanges, meetups, ornament exchanges, etc. That by itself made cruising so much more fun. We had been communicating for over a year before we sailed. We’ve only cruised Disney but are leaving on our first non-Disney cruise in a few weeks.
DCL Pro tip for tall people: shower at the spa/fitness center locker rooms. It’s free and much more spacious!
Ooo!!! That's such a good point. I'm just putting together my review about the cabin so I'll definitely mention that as I thought the showers were a little short. Thank you!!
I’ve had amazing showers on port days in completely empty spas haha.
My husband showers in the fitness center on all our cruises. He said it's really nice and he may as well since I'm usually hogging up the one in the cabin. :)
I did this on our last Disney Cruise right before C*vid and it was so nice! There's even lounge chairs and a sauna in the locker room.
All of this. I fit fine, but my brother is tall so he would always shower in the spa.
I recently came across your videos and honestly it put me more at ease to try a cruise for the first time. So informative and great content ☺️
Thank you! 😁❤️
Thanks for your review. Looking forward to our 3 disney cruises in the next two months. Great Job Emma.
Thank you! Have a great time 😀❤️
The Disney Magic is actually our favorite of the Disney ships. We love the Cast Members and the ship overall. I think in this case smaller can be better.
agreed
It’s the best ship they’ve got
I’ve been on Disney 5 times and for the Buffet I can say they usually have to open for more hours of the day. On our last cruise it was open from 6:30am-11:30am | 12:00pm-3:30pm | 5:00pm-9:00pm. (One day they have a midnight buffet). They must do it now because of Covid and probably since the ship was less passengers onboard.
is the buffet separate from the regular 3 included dining rooms?
@@RLucas3000 Yes, the buffet is always on the pool deck while the three main dining rooms are next or close to the atrium.
My family got to take a Disney cruise back in 2004. And I mean my WHOLE family (cousins, uncles, aunts, grandparents, etc). It was a Christmas gift from my late great grandmother. I was 10 at the time so a Disney Cruise was right up my ally. I loved the free sodas, the black and white restaurant with the animated drawings, the swimming, and the kids club, of course. We all had an amazing time and made so many wonderful memories together there. One of the highlights of my childhood, for sure.
That said, could I see myself ever going on a Disney cruise again? Probably not, if I'm being honest. If nothing else, it's too pricey for what it offers. My family was only able to go back then thanks to my great grandmother's remaining life savings. On our own, my parents would have never been able to afford the trip, even if it had just been for my sister and I. I got a ton of value out of it as a kid for it to ultimately be worth the cost, but that was almost 20 years ago. I'm sure things have changed on the ship since then, especially in a post-covid world, and I'm not as big on Disney as I used to be. I remember there being some adults-only things to do on the shipt, but unless you're obsessed with Disney as an adult, this cruise is mainly for the kids to enjoy. If I had kids of my own, I'm sure they would absolutely love it. But for adults, I think there might be better alternatives out there.
I'm so glad you had a good time. When I went on the Disney Dream in 2017, I sprained my ankle playing basketball during one of the days of my cruise. Luckily, the staff did well in getting me to the er on the ship and got me the service I needed to ensure that I was comfortable and feeling better soon!
Whoa its really cool to see the added enclosed slide added to the Magic! It's been a few years since I sailed on that ship and glad to see them upgrade the water activities!
Thoroughly enjoyed watching your review. I think it would be something one would pay for to make a life time magical memory for your kiddies. I would have absolutely loved as a kid.
Great insights Emma. I've sailed the Magic on a 7 night Western Caribbean with a 3 and 5 year old girls and yes, it is loud at times. But we let ourselves get totally wrapped up in the experience and created a life time of memories.
Sounds good, thanks for watching David 😀❤️
I did this cruise as a kid in the early 2000s…truly maybe 2003/4 and your descriptions are EXACTLY how I remember it. Very nostalgic
I'm not interested in cruising but I love your channel. I really appreciated your expertise. Your videos are super informative and fast paced. Great watching a pro.
Thanks so much Gloria, really appreciate that 😀❤️
I've never been on a Disney cruise but I really like the style of their ships. I think it's designed to resemble the old ocean liners on the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Very fair review, I think. DCL deliver a great experience - we've spoken to people who have cruised extensively and they rated Disney as the best - but different things matter to different people, and cost is a factor. We've had a brilliant time when we've sailed with DCL, especially in Alaska.
My fiancée and I are planning on doing a Disney Cruise for our 10 year anniversary in 2027!. I have never been on a cruise before and she has when she was young but we're both Disney fans (especially her; she used to work at Disney World). But I think of us being fans, this is definitely something I would like to experience at least once. We're both really looking forward to it and we can't wait. Great video!
Here’s a tip for disney! Don’t go to the buffet for embarkation lunch, go to the main dining room! Much quieter, and higher quality good
I cruised on this ship in January 2020 before the pandemic. Full ship, great experience. Eye-popping to see it so empty.
I’m planning one next year for my 3 boys and husbands. They are not HUGE on Disney but enjoy the movies and shows. I also hear the kids clubs are great. It feels like a bucket list item I want us to do so I think we will just do a 3-4 day cruise. Enough time but not too much
I really enjoyed listening to your experience based on such a short cruise.
I've only cruised on the Fantasy thus far and for 7 nights and while I do find it expensive, I also believe that you get what you pay for.
I also believe your experience might have been heightened/lowered due to post-pandemic conditions, especially on the live music thing, on every cruise I've been on there have been artists playing at different spots all over the ship which was always nice.
Very happy to have heard your thoughts on this cruise and looking forward to your future video.
Thank you for this honest review.
I love how you can be so positive about a cruise you didn’t fully enjoy with out trashing it for personal preference reasons. There is a cruise for everyone is right!
Also… did carnival phase out towel animals abs chocolates? You said some lines have.
There are definitely some significant differences in Disney Cruises Pre vs Post Covid. (The shorter buffet hours is a Covid thing) And also between cruises out of the UK vs the US. Personally I have gone to the Buffet 2 or 3 times across all the times I have cruised with Disney. I prefer the full service restaurants (my wife prefers room service) If you are cruising without kids the 2nd dining rotation is the way to go. And even on a longer cruise with a "formal" night, it is never required to dress up. (Unless you go to Palo or Remy)
Ooo! Great tip! 😀👏🏼
The rotational dining thing seems like such a great idea
I hit the LIKE button after the first 30 seconds.
Saving for later viewing as I have a meeting with our travel agent about the
2022 NCL cruise we are taking. I told the travel agent about your CZcams site.
Thanks so much Ross! Appreciate that 😀💕
We consider ourselves a Disney family and definitely enjoyed the Disney cruises that we've traveled on. We can't wait to get back to cruising again and getting onboard one of the mega-ships that you've recommended.
Thanks, Emma; it's crystallised for us that we are not the right demographic for a Disney cruise! Very informative video.
So glad I watched this….totally made me change my mind about taking a Disney cruise. I will go with a different cruise. Thank You
I learned so many new things about Disney from you, thanks so much Emma!
Very welcome! Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
I've priced 4 day Disney Caribbean cruises for 2 adults (pre Covid19) and it was going to be around $3500 not including air fare. A 7 day Princess cruise in the Caribbean would be around $2000. And I don't have to worry about the multitude of small children. I have heard that Disney does set the bar high for customer service. Great video.
I will be doing my first Disney cruise next year with my granddaughters. I have told the family I will be spending a lot of time in the adult areas. Not that I don't love them but a lot of kids drive me crazy. Thanks for an honest review.
Hahah!! Very fair 🤣❤️
as seniors we cruise DCL by choice. as a grandmother of 8 and great gram of 6, the kids never bother me I find most of them well behaved and not a problem at all . the parents seem to have the children well in hand at all times as for Emma's complaint about ears in the theater, she could have moved, I have NEVERseen thr theater full on the ship or politely asked the parents to remove them A an DULT i WEAR MY EAES FULL TIME ON THE CRUISE
Love the amount and quality of this vlog. Thank you for this information.
Thanks Dan! ❤️
I have always decorated my cruise door. The decorations depend on the time of year or the cruise destination. For example - during NCAA football/basketball season I always decorate in my Alma Mater with pictures of players, stats, Pom poms, and the schedule. I also make sure I sport my college on my clothing as well - except on formal nights. This theme often results in many lively conversations with other cruisers, which is part of the motivation for the door decor and “theme.” It just makes the cruise a bit more fun and tons of fun to plan for!!!
Ooo very cool!! Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
Okay, seeing "O'Gills Pub" put a smile on my face. That's an ancient callback for something very appropriate.
In the US, Dove Chocolate is marketed as slightly more upscale than Hershey's, so it's a bit more expensive sounding than the British name. That said, almost all of our mass produced chocolate is garbage on this side of the ocean.
Haha, got to agree with you there, don’t like US chocolate at all 🤣❤️
The usual chocolate (Ghirardelli) is much better but I suspect supply issues for the UK cruises ment they had to change it.
O'Gills is a great space.
Great video. As a Disney nerd and a DCL veteran, I know I’m biased in my love for Disney cruising. I love so many things about their ships (I’m one of those who love the smaller ships) and their service. But your takes on Cabanas (and off peak food options in general) and late night adult options is something that I completely agree with. Are you planning a food-specific video? Just wondering what you liked and didn’t like about not only the restaurants, but the quick deck 9 options. I feel like those need some updating and additional late night hours too.
That is totally fair! Nope I wasn’t planning to, I didn’t really eat all that much because the cruise was short. Was mostly the noise that I didn’t like, food was good 👍🏼😀
I’m loving all your videos! I’ve been a musician on DCL for almost 9 years and it made me so sad when you noted there wasn’t any live music… it took a while for them to get us back on board after 2020 (18 months to be exact) but I just wanted to say we’re over the moon to finally be back and thank you for missing us! ❤️❤️❤️
Hey Chloe!! That’s awesome, Thanks for watching. 🥳👏🏼
I loved your assessment. I totally agree with you about everything. Very well presented. Good work, Emma.
Thanks Michael! :)
I’m going back onto a disney cruise next month and can’t wait to be back onboard. Got lots of credit that my family can do loads of stuff like the various beverage tastings, spa stuff and doing Palo & Remy. We do these normally but now they’re ‘free’ for us with all the credit we got (almost $4000). Was hoping to use some for stuff in Nassau but nothing I would’ve used it for is available so it’s all going towards ship stuff and Castaway Cay.
I love these ships so much I had to check what other cruises I’d even want to do that wasn’t Disney and the only ones that have tempted me are Viking and Cunard with their transatlantic voyage.
Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
I’m a teen and Disney Cruises are even fun for me. The teen only sections are great and offer loads of activities. I’m social so I met a lot of people too.
Good review, you gave a interesting perspective compared to other review/tour videos I have watched in the last few days regarding taking a Disney Cruise. Thanks for posting!
Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
Woah! I've been watching your videos for a few days, reminiscing about the two cruises I've been lucky enough to go on, and I couldn't believe it when I heard you mention starting out going to the kids club on Norwegian! My two cruises were on the NCL Gem, and the during the first one I spent the first few nights in the "teens club" before making friends and going out on our own. definitely a formative experience for me. keep up the great work, you make great videos!
I am a huge Disney fan. Yes, we are a different breed of people ha ha! For reference, I'm a grown woman and my kids are in their early 20's. They love Disney too as we have taken them to the parks since they were little. My husband and I have recently started going by ourselves without the kids (and they are jealous). With that said, I don't think I'd want to take a Disney cruise. The price has kept us away and now that our kids are grown, I guess we never got around to it. I think we are more suitable for the traditional cruise lines, plus my husband likes to gamble and Disney doesn't have a casino. Maybe one day when I have grand children! Great video and I definitely appreciate your honesty!
Yes!!! This is it!! I think some people are bitten by the Disney bug and some not. You yes me no and that’s totally cool!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
As a fellow huge Disney fan-I absolutely agree with you. We are definitely a different breed of people. 😂 I'm nearly fifty and have been going to Disney since I was 3 months old. I've been a pass holder for over 40 years (some of those courtesy of my Disney loving parents). I have thankfully passed my Disney love down to my 2 pass holder children. 😂 We've been on 10 cruises with Disney and love it, but we did start when the kids were pretty young too. We're also DVC members and when we vacation it's pretty much DCL, Disneyland or WDW. 🏰
@@TheGoofy1932 aww I’m jealous of you life-timers! We didn’t start going until we took our own kids, but we were hooked instantly! (I went to Disneyland once when I was a kid, but I barely remember it.) I hope one day I’ll have grandchildren to take. I plan to raise them on it. ❤️
Great video, Emma! I do not understand how to justify DCL's prices. It's not a premium cruise line, and yet charges 2-3x what contemporary family lines charge. I used to cruise DCL in the early 2000s, and back then their prices were reasonable. But these days, it's become absurdly expensive. Unlike Disney theme parks that are arguably heads and shoulders superior to competitors, DCL is not that different from other cruise lines.
Hey Matt!! Thanks so much for watching!
Seems they just want a more affluent crowd. can't blame them...
@@ameliaerin1544 IOW, they don't want the riffraff hey; a cruise for the Leona Helmsley's no doubt. Hey, burn money if you got it, just to escape the mob [no, not that one; the one that visits walmart, hehe].
Its all about use tge Disney brand for what its worth... ALL Disney stuff is beyond expencive. A Disney cruise is of course based on families to buy merchandies for their kids.... Its just business
No biased opinion from RCB of course.
Disney Magic was the first cruise I ever went on as a kid. This video brings back memories
We’ve been on 3 Disney cruises and we loved them! They even allow adults who are not accompanied by a child to sail! And it’s fun. Many of is are just big kids. Loved, loved, loved it enough we’re going again this October!!!
So interesting to hear your opinion! Whenever my friends ask if Disney cruises are worth it, I always say if the Disney experience is important to you then yes, but otherwise probably not. We also have a maximum price we'll pay for a Disney cruise (about $225 per night per person), so there's usually only a few options in a year that fit into our schedule 😂
As for the live entertainment, our last cruise pre-covid had a lot of it scattered throughout the ship, but what I've heard on cruise Facebook groups is that it's drastically decreased since sailing resumed.
Ahh yeah, that does make sense. A strange time for cruising! That sounds like a tolerable price!! Ha ha. Mine was just crazy expensive but that was the cheapest of the summer 😂😂😂
I can imagine for families with young kids, a Disney cruise would be great.
Although i like Disney, for me a Disney cruise would be like discovering Dante's 8th circle of hell.
Awesome! Looking to go on one in April. I am so excited!
I remember going on this cruise when I was 9 or 10. Most fun ever! I remember being so excited about the 24/7 self serve soft serve ice cream. I asked my mom recently and she said that she had fun too but there wasn’t enough adult stuff to do, it’s def a cruise more catered to kids.
This was a really helpful video! I’m taking my 4 year old to the obligatory Disney World visit in April. I was thinking that a Disney cruise with her when she’s a little older, 7 or 8 years old might be more enjoyable then braving the ride lines at the Park. I’ve cruised once before more than a decade ago with Carnival from New Orleans to the Yucatán and my least favorite part of the trip was time aboard ship. Yet, your video makes it seem that she’d have a lot of fun if we did the Disney cruise and seeing her having fun is probably worth the crazy price in order to make lasting memories. Thanks again!
Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
Actually the experiences for younger age kids on the ship are better than in the parks. Rooms are close by for naps, childcare is so available, lots of experiences for adults with or with out kids. We have taken our grandkids several times under 6 yrs, but park visits are reserved for 6 and over!
I appreciate your review of Disney and im glad you enjoyed it. It is expensive but i feel if you have kids that love Disney it is a good value. There is so much for the kids to do and they are in supervised areas. We almost never saw my brothers kids till meal times as they where so ingrossed in the club activities. I do not think other cruises due as much for kids as Disney does. When my daughter graduated from high school I took her on one of the European Disney cruises. My friends all laughed and asked why Disney. I just felt safe on that brand w her. I was only on carnival before and wasnt too impressed. Still has the party hook up image of them. Didnt want to worry about that atmosphere. Just felt safer and more family centered on Disney. I have since been on other cruise lines. Some I will do again others no. Some companies look after their ships others don't. I enjoy that old world feel and atmosphere on the disney cruise. My dream is to do a transatlantic one w my grand children.
Glad that you enjoyed it 😀 Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
I must say, as someone who is an absolute Disney and Theatre GEEK this sounds like an absolute blast! I can definitely understand why being around kids during the theatre can be mildly irritating (I work in education), so if I ever have the money to go I’ll definitely keep the second viewing in mind.
I thought I recognized the interior! The Disney Magic was my first cruise ever!! I loved every second of it!!
The chocolates are called Dove where I am, but I'm in the U.S., so no surprise! :) Like you, I've crunched the numbers many times and I just can't bring myself to spend the money for a Disney cruise. My go to cruise line is Royal Caribbean and I can get at least twice the value for my money with Royal, and the cruise line is a good match for me and my family. I have young adult children who have gone on Royal cruises with me at all ages and enjoyed the variety of activities and even the kids' clubs on those ships. I'm trying my first Celebrity cruise this coming March and think the "vibe" and level of activity sounds perfect for me. I anticipate I'll be taking advantage of the "Next Cruise" desk before we disembark!
Ooo yes! I love Royal and Celebrity. Sure you’ll love. Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
Well, definitely this being a "pandemic era" cruise it was not quite the usual experience. I may try a Disney cruise someday, but, like Emma, I don't know that the extra expense is worth it -- to me.
I’m 16 now but I remember when I was 6 going on a disney cruise, and I loved it as a kid. I remember my family got upgraded to the suites, and as a 6 year old had the best time.
I LOVE Disney cruises! They’re my favorite cruise line for sure
i'm a Disney geek. I don't do bars, casinos or late night entertainment stuff. so this sounds perfect for me
Sounds good! 😁🥳
Here is a different perspective from a longtime Disney Cruiser: The one thing for our family that has just made sense over the years of taking our now teenage children is that it is the EASIEST way to get a vacation WITH children. By this I mean, we are Orlando residents and even being annual passholders and going to the parks whenever we want, it is still exhausting to take kids in and out of a car, put in stroller, walk parks, get out for rides and dinner, go all night, rinse and repeat. We have found for ourselves that cruising Disney allowed my husband to actually get a break from all that and just enjoy playing with our kids and making memories. We never had to worry if they were fussy as we could immediately go back to room, or if they were in need of food, it was immediately available, no lines and no need to "look up" a restaurant or make a reservation or in the old days manage fast passes. We never need a 'vacation after the vacation' on a Disney cruise unlike if we were to go to WDW or quite frankly any other destination on land. But I completely understand where a single woman with no kids would not entirely like DCL. For us though, we look at other cruise lines as tacky and dated (We made the mistake of taking our honeymoon on RC). We also are not gamblers or drinkers so for us, other cruise lines have never been appealing. However, I do see how some cruise lines are becoming a bit more classier and have events we would enjoy. We did take DCL to the British Isles in 2018 and understand how weather could affect how you view your time onboard as well. Having Castaway Cay to visit really adds to the enjoyment of a Disney Cruise as well and I can't image having only cold and wet weather. Thank you for your perspective, this is just our experience with kids. :>)
I went on the Disney Dream in January and my family got concierge, so we had access to a lounge and many perks. It was the best cruise and best service I have ever had.
You presented a well-balanced experience on Disney Magic. We are Disney Platinum (10+ cruises) and love everything about the ships, crew, food, and entertainment. Booking early, on the first day of release ~18 months out, is the best price and it only increases from day one. Yes, DCL sails full (relative to past and current conditions). Then, booking when kids are in school or for extended cruises (7+ days), is our preference. Glad you experienced Disney.
Thanks so much M! It means a lot 😀❤️
I’ve seen sooooooo many vlogs on the UK Disney cruises and after being on about 30 Disney cruises the UK ones are a very very very watered down version, mainly due to COVID of course. It looked amazing and I think Disney did a fabulous job with these cruises. °o°
Yeah, makes sense 😀❤️ Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
I’ve never been on a Disney Cruise but it’s sad you didn’t get to go to cast away cay Disney’s private island. I hear it’s really nice.
@@scrappy00001 It’s the highlight of a Disney cruise for us
@@scrappy00001 It would be tricky to do sailing from the UK! 🙂 We're hoping we can go in 2022 though, it looks amazing...
I wonder if the lack of live music is a Covid thing, bc I’ve cruised on the Magic twice and both times I distinctly remember a fair number of live musicians in the lounges. But overall, loved your review! Can’t wait to cruise again, but being in America, I still just don’t trust my fellow Americans to follow Covid protocols.
I went on a Disney cruise (on the Magic) last week for my first cruise ever. There were a few live musicians but there weren't a lot of performances. And I guess if it's something that interests you or experienced them on other cruises, I 'd probably notice it too.
We had lots of live music on NYE cruise. Always a piano player in a lounge
I've never been on a cruise ship, or any ship. Life long Colorado USA, not much water around. Thanks for showing me the cruise experience, you are a joy to watch and kinda like a vacation!
Life is short
We're going on our first cruise next year when the Wonder comes to Australia. It's nice to watch a video from a person who's not obsessed with Disney! Though we are doing it solely because it's a Disney cruise. Our kids are crazy for Disney, and TBH, we as adults are too. But at the same time I'm cringing over the cost for 4 night's (A$7200+), and what type of relaxing holiday I could have booked for that price, and that's without the whole tipping business...
As adults, we tend to book for holidays for ourselves more than we do for our kids. We have holidays away outside of school holidays to avoid being over run with everyone else's kids too🤣. The rest of the year is about them. I totally get the not enjoying being kicked in the back of the seat by some kid. We're lucky and have the 2nd dinner service so very grateful for that.
Loved reading your tips on your page - many will be very helpful I think. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Emma, I'm glad you finally did it. Thank you for the indepth analysis of Disney Cruise. It's just not for me especially at that price.
Thanks ThankGod! ❤️❤️❤️
This was a couple years ago but when we on the cruises we brought a tumbler and would just use one of their cups and pour in our tumblers so we didn’t have to go back and forth to get sodas
We do this too. We bring multiple empty water bottles, fill them with ice and water and keep them in the stateroom fridge. Saves time on multiple trips and you always have fresh water available.
Love this! I’m taking my first cruise ever on DCL next fall and appreciate your experience and perspective.
Yay! I’m sure you’ll have a great time. Thanks for watching 😀👏🏼
I've been on maybe 5 or 6 cruises in my entire life and all but one were on the Disney Magic herself back in the early-mid 2000s. It's so interesting seeing how the old girl has held up these after all these years