oceanview vs verandah disney cruise

Disney Cruise Line

Verandah vs. Oceanview?

By mkkao924 , November 8, 2017 in Disney Cruise Line

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I'm totally a "deck 2 oceanview" girl.

But, the answer can only be found by you. Do you want a verandah? Do you often sit out on your patio/balcony at home? Do you think you'll be spending much time in the room (besides sleeping)? What's the price difference (will it cover the cost of a specific excursion)?

cruisefamilyforever

Since you have cruised on other ships I'm wondering why you are even asking this question. First off you might what to actually price a Disney cruise if money is a factor. You will discovery the cost is significantly higher than what you have paid for your other cruises, even for in inside cabin. If Disney is still in your budget, an inside deluxe family cabin with a virtual port hole is awesome. Plenty of room for 4. If you want a large real porthole, those rooms are nice too. If you want to sit outside, then by all means select a cabin with a veranda.

You will find that Disney cabins for each category are a step above what you have experienced so far.

Since you have cruised on other ships I'm wondering why you are even asking this question. First off you might what to actually price a Disney cruise if money is a factor. You will discovery the cost is significantly higher than what you have paid for your other cruises, even for in inside cabin. If Disney is still in your budget, an inside deluxe family cabin with a virtual port hole is awesome. Plenty of room for 4. If you want a large real porthole, those rooms are nice too. If you want to sit outside, then by all means select a cabin with a veranda. You will find that Disney cabins for each category are a step above what you have experienced so far.

Thanks. This is exactly what I am looking for. I have stayed RCCL's inside and balcony, and it was a big difference. Granted back then the inside cabin didn't have the virtual port hole, so that will be different.

I also didn't know how many kids activities there will be on Disney Wonder. Last time we stayed in balcony, we used the balcony quite a bit because there were times we got nothing to do during the day. This time around with kids, and it's a Disney cruise, I don't know how much time we will spend in the stateroom.

However, we will also travel with a 2 yr old, so I will spend at least an hour everyday in the room for his nap. For that alone, I will probably book the verandah....

Thanks. This is exactly what I am looking for. I have stayed RCCL's inside and balcony, and it was a big difference. Granted back then the inside cabin didn't have the virtual port hole, so that will be different. I also didn't know how many kids activities there will be on Disney Wonder. Last time we stayed in balcony, we used the balcony quite a bit because there were times we got nothing to do during the day. This time around with kids, and it's a Disney cruise, I don't know how much time we will spend in the stateroom. However, we will also travel with a 2 yr old, so I will spend at least an hour everyday in the room for his nap. For that alone, I will probably book the verandah....

Well, there's your answer then. :)

moki'smommy

You hit the one time I strongly recommend a balcony--if you have a little person who naps. Mom can put the child down and have a comfy place to sit and enjoy her cruise while still being "right there" with the child. With a little advance planning, she'll have her favorite beverage and possibly some munchies ready for that balcony time along with a book or whatever.

Without the nap issue, I'd say that I've been in all the main cabin types and it really is a personal thing. With a kid napping....verandah.

alaska_planner

i'm pretty sure that there is no virtual porthole in the inside rooms of the disney wonder.

I believe the inside room virtual portholes are only on the fantasy and dream, but maybe i'm wrong. (was there an update during the dry dock?)

i'm pretty sure that there is no virtual porthole in the inside rooms of the disney wonder. I believe the inside room virtual portholes are only on the fantasy and dream, but maybe i'm wrong. (was there an update during the dry dock?)

That is correct. The virtual portholes are only on the Dream class ships.

I'm a veranda person. For all there is to do on the ship, there is still nothing like waking up in the morning, running up to the Cove Cafe and having my coffee on the veranda while my wife sleeps. Or coming back to the room after the evening activities and reading for a bit before going to bed.

You are correct, the original post didn't state which ship they were talking about. If the budget allows, a veranda is the way to go for the extra area away from the kids and all of the light it gives the room. I like the more spacious feeling you get from a balcony even though I don't spend much time on it.

We switched at the last minute to a veranda because my adult children wanted a place to hang when their kids went to sleep at night.

elchichicuilote

We chose an oceanview room on a previous trip with another line, because our children were ages 4 and 8, and it felt safer. Not that I was ever seriously worried about them falling overboard, but having a towel, toy, or other item blow off the verandah in the wind is something I'd rather not have to guard against. A solid, non-opening window just completely eliminated one class of possible problems to deal with. Not once during the cruise did I ever have to say "no leaning on the railing", or "no horseplay on the verandah." Of course, cost was also a factor. We were happy with our choice, but of course, others are happy with theirs.

Captain Scruffy

We have an 8 year old and tend to use the verandahs often. We will spend the 30 minutes of the day out there drinking coffee and just talking about our plans for the day. We often eat lunch out there and it's a great place to hang out once the kids go to bed.

We originally booked ocean views (3 cabins, multi generation). At the last minute, we changed to verandas since the price wasn't that much more. My original reasons for the ocean view were that we weren't sure of the protection outside for a 4 and 6 year old. That was not an issue as there is a Plexiglas barrier, too high for them to climb. The other reason was that the parents of the youngsters thought it would give them a place to hang when the kids when to sleep. Not sure how much they used that but we (husband and I) were glad we got one.

I realize that many parents are concerned, and I've often heard things like "But you don't know my child." OK, that's true. But NO child has accidentally gone overboard from a DCL ship, and they currently have been cruising for 19 1/2 years. There have been a couple of instances of older individuals (one a teen) going overboard intentionally. The teen was in port and the captain was NOT amused! He jumped from a CM area which has since been closed off and is ot accessible to guests. And yes, there is one instance of a CM who went missing from a ship.

The balconies are protected by a HEAVY door with a lock that is at shoulder height on me. So your child can't get to the balcony without an adult opening the door. Then there is a plexiglass barrier on the balcony itself, designed so the child can't get a foothold or climb it. Yes, a kid could hypothetically move the balcony furniture to that area and then climb on it...but why are they even on the balcony without a parent?

Bottom line--the balconies are as safe as they could be made and have an almost 20 year proven safety record. If you are concerned, book a room without a balcony. But if you want a balcony (and they are great with napping toddlers), you have very little to be concerned about.

I realize that many parents are concerned' date=' and I've often heard things like "But you don't know my child." OK, that's true. But NO child has accidentally gone overboard from a DCL ship, and they currently have been cruising for 19 1/2 years. There have been a couple of instances of older individuals (one a teen) going overboard intentionally. The teen was in port and the captain was NOT amused! He jumped from a CM area which has since been closed off and is ot accessible to guests. And yes, there is one instance of a CM who went missing from a ship. The balconies are protected by a HEAVY door with a lock that is at shoulder height on me. So your child can't get to the balcony without an adult opening the door. Then there is a plexiglass barrier on the balcony itself, designed so the child can't get a foothold or climb it. Yes, a kid could hypothetically move the balcony furniture to that area and then climb on it...but why are they even on the balcony without a parent? Bottom line--the balconies are as safe as they could be made and have an almost 20 year proven safety record. If you are concerned, book a room without a balcony. But if you want a balcony (and they are great with napping toddlers), you have very little to be concerned about.[/quote'] That's all true but if you've never been on a Disney ship, you don't know until you ask or go on the ship.

not only are the verandah doors hard for kids to open, they're nearly impossible for me to open!!! :o

And don't forget, they are double locked. There's the knob you have to rotate that's above ones head and the handle you have to turn to open,

Absolutely correct. And they can be a real difficulty for older or impaired people to open. They are seriously heavy and both locks must be opened. When I cruised with an older friend, she could not open the door.

It might be possible for a child to get the correct angle and force to open the handle on the door, but they won't be able to reach the shoulder level lock or undo that mechanism. And by the time they have the strength to open the heavy door, a normal child will have the maturity to appreciate the consequences.

On our last two cruises, my family booked a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah for my mother, myself, my five-year-old nephew and a Standard Inside Stateroom located directly across the hall for my sister, BIL, and three-year-old niece. We enjoyed watching the ship sailaway each day from port, eating room service breakfast, reading, drying out swimsuits in the sun, and just sitting around and chatting :)

If you can afford them in your budget, then yes I would highly recommend one!

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The Best Staterooms in Each of the 10 Categories on a Disney Cruise in 2022

There are a lot of stateroom choices on a Disney Cruise ! You may think there should be three simple choices: inside, oceanview, or verandah – but it’s nowhere near that cut and dry. Each of those three stateroom types has several different classifications of staterooms! Disney has thirty-one various categories of staterooms.

Beginning in 2022, some of the categories have new names, and some staterooms have been recategorized. Disney is standardizing everything in anticipation of their third class of ships – the Triton Class, which kicks off in 2022 with the Disney Wish! In fact, hopefully soon I will write another new blog post, with stateroom recommendations for the Wish!

A few of the same ground rules and guidelines first:

– I’m not going to recommend accessible staterooms. If you need an accessible stateroom, there are options in almost every category. If you don’t need one, pick something else.

– If you don’t need a connecting stateroom, try to avoid them. I have stayed in a few different staterooms with a connecting door and we could hear the guests on the other side almost as if they were in our stateroom.

– While I will give some specific stateroom numbers in some cases, in other cases I’ll just give general guidance. It’s always good planning to check a review of the particular stateroom you have in mind. There are some staterooms out there that have noise or vibration issues. There are also some right above the theaters or the nightclubs. You probably want to avoid those.

– To find stateroom reviews, use Google or check a site like Disney Cruise Line Blog. Scott Sanders has a good list of reviews going over there. A quick search may save you some headaches on board!

– Finally, the staterooms on the Dream and Fantasy will be the same, so I will address those staterooms as the Dream Class. Similarly, the Magic and Wonder have the same types of staterooms, so I will address them as the Magic Class.

With the recategorization, all categories are now broken down further with letters like A, B, C, D and E. The letters generally distinguish where on the ship the staterooms are located, with the letter A being the typically most desired location – mid-ship and/or on a higher deck.

1. Concierge Suites –

Category 1A – Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah (Formerly Category R) – Recognizing that a Royal Suite is out of reach for most mere mortals, I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge they are the best staterooms on the ship. There is no room for debate, people. Whether we are talking Dream or Magic Class, these are the best staterooms on the ship and there are no bad options in this category. I’m a fan of starboard side for the Magic Class if I had to pick one. The Royal Suites on the Magic Class sleep 7 and aren’t quite as open and airy as the Dream Class which sleep 5, but all are amazing. For the Dream Class, the two suites are different. The Roy O. Disney Suite (12502) is starboard, and the Walter E. Disney Suite (12002) is port side. The living areas are almost identical, but the bedroom and bathroom layouts are different. In the Roy, the bedroom is on the exterior of the suite, and the master bathroom is on the interior, so the bedroom has beautiful windows and light. In the Walt, the master bathroom is on the exterior and gets all that beautiful light, while the bedroom is more interior. There are benefits to both, and it’s really a personal preference. I preferred the Walt, but certainly would not have been sad in either one!

Category 1B – Concierge 2-Bedroom Suite with Verandah (Formerly Category S) – There are only two 2-bedroom suites, and they are found only on the Magic Class. The only difference between them is starboard (right) or port (left) side. I’d give a slight edge to the starboard side of the ship if you are sailing to Castaway Cay because I love those island views when docked for your day in paradise.

Category 2A or 2B – 1-Bedroom Suite (2A or 2B) with Verandah (Formerly Category T) – On the Dream Class, there is only one 2A, and it’s spectacular. It’s stateroom 12000, and it’s located between the two Royal Suites forward on the ship. This room has a huge verandah, and stunning views. This room is often held back during the initial release to see if either of the Royal Suite occupants would like to add it on (it’s connected to both via a hallway of sorts), but it will pop into inventory regularly. You (or your travel agent) just need to keep an eye out! The 2Bs on the Dream Class are also amazing, and there are 6 with oversized verandahs. They’re located on a bumpout of the ship and the verandahs are huge! They are staterooms 12006, 12012, 12506, 12512, 11006, and 11002. For the absolute best view of Castaway Cay, book 12512. On the Dream Class, I also slightly prefer the concierge staterooms on deck 12, over deck 11, because they have easier access to the concierge lounge and sundeck. On the Magic Class, I’d recommend the 2As. These four staterooms have a slightly different layout which puts the twin pull-down bed in the living room instead of in the master bedroom like the 2Bs. I greatly prefer the master bedroom to have its own closed-off space, especially when you’re putting children to bed early.

2. Category 3A – Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Formerly Category V) –Category 3A staterooms are essentially category 4 staterooms with concierge soft goods and concierge service. On the Magic Class, I still prefer starboard side if visiting Castaway Cay. On the Dream Class, I have the same starboard answer, while also recommending one of the staterooms on the bumpout. Those are 12008, 12010, 12508, 12510, and 11004. If you are traveling with the party in stateroom 12512, definitely book 12510 to open the verandah partition in between the two staterooms for a super-sized-amazing-Castaway-Cay-views-of-glory stateroom combination. BTW, that is an official term.

3. Category 4 – Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah – Category 4 staterooms are the biggest non-concierge staterooms on the ships. The word “Family” in the title means the stateroom is slightly longer and sleeps up to five. On the Dream Class, it also means they have a round bathtub instead of the standard rectangular one found in most staterooms. 4Es on the Dream Class are a notable exception to those rules. 4Es on the Dream Class only sleep four, and are the same size as category 5 staterooms, not the extended family size, nor do they have the round tubs. They do, however, have GIANT verandahs. For 2022, Disney reclassified most of the 5E staterooms as category 4E. That actually makes sense. Those 5Es were just like the 4Es, they were just on the far aft (back) of the ship. So now my favorite 4Es would be those that are located aft because of the great views. Some of the rooms on the corners have even bigger verandahs! 4Es on the Magic Class follow the rules of the other 4s – the stateroom sleeps up to 5 and their verandahs are not giant. Their verandahs do have a solid white metal wall instead of clear Plexiglas below the railing. I’d avoid 4Es on the Magic Class for that reason, while I’d certainly do 4Es on the Dream Class for those ginormous verandahs. Disney reclassified many category 4 rooms for 2022, eliminating 4D, recategorizing some of those as 4C, and some 4Cs became 4Bs.

4. Category 5 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah – Category 5 is my go-to stateroom. They are all standard-size staterooms with unobstructed verandahs. Disney reclassified several of them, recategorizing most 5Es to 4Es as discussed above, and eliminating 5Ds. Some 5Ds are now 5Cs, some 5Cs are now 5Bs. I avoid deck 10 on the Dream Class as a general rule (there are some pool deck noise issues in some rooms on deck 10), but otherwise I like all of the category 5s!

5. Category 6 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Undersized, Obstructed View, or White Wall) – Category 6 staterooms are like category 5 staterooms, but they all have either an undersized, obstructed, or white wall verandah. Some of these differences are minor, so if you want to save a little from a category 5, category 6 may be for you. On the Dream Class, some of the 6Bs are on the aft of the ship, so those would be my choice because of the great views! Category 6 staterooms on deck six have slightly larger verandahs on Magic Class, so I’d recommend those! 5650 and 5150 also have giant verandahs on the Magic Class!

6. Category 7 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator’s Verandah – There is a significant difference between the Dream and Magic Class category 7s. A Navigator’s verandah on the Magic Class is a mostly enclosed verandah, with a large circular or oval window-type opening cut out for viewing purposes. On the Dream Class, it’s just a slightly obstructed view from the verandah. These are slightly more obstructed than the category 6s, thus the category 7 designation. There are two on the aft (5188 and 5688) that have small verandahs, but great views! On the Magic Class, there are four that are not fully enclosed. I’d pick one of those! They are staterooms 6134, 6634, 7120, and 7620.

7. Category 8 – Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom – Starting with category 8s, these staterooms no longer have a verandah. There are no category 8s on the Magic Class, only the Dream Class. Once again, the word “Family” means they are bigger staterooms that sleep up to 5 and have round tubs. They also have very large portholes with seating! The exceptions are 8As. And what an exception they are! 8As are almost like suites with two large portholes with lots of space, and many have a divider of some kind between the bed and seating area. I’d wholeheartedly recommend any of the 8As! Not all have bathtubs, and some are more divided than others, so do your research before picking which one works for you. Disney recategorized the 8Ds for 2022, and now 8Ds are 8Cs, while 8Cs are 8Bs.

8. Category 9 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom – Category 9s are your standard oceanview staterooms. Read – no verandahs. On the Magic Class, I’d recommend avoiding deck 1 if staying in a category 9. Deck 1 is a short deck with no access to the aft elevators. The oceanview staterooms on deck 1 also have two small portholes instead of one larger porthole which greatly limits your view in my opinion. The 9C staterooms that are all the way forward, like 2504 or 2510, also have a little bit more space due to the curvature of the ship! On the Dream Class, we loved the 9Bs on deck 2 outside Enchanted Garden . It was an incredibly convenient location. The Dream Class also has some large corner staterooms that are 9Ds. They are 7006, 7504, 8006, and 8504. You may also like the 9Cs and 9Ds that are forward with views of where the ship is headed. The portholes are slanted with slightly obstructed views, but neat views all the same.

9. Category 10 – Deluxe Inside Stateroom – Category 10 inside staterooms are basically the same size and setup as category 9s, but they have no outside views. On the Dream Class, however, they do have virtual portholes, which gives a view (via camera) of what is happening outside (with some occasional Disney magic thrown in). The Magic Class has its own exciting unnamed category here – secret porthole staterooms! That’s right, some of these inside staterooms actually have a window! Disney did not classify them as oceanview staterooms because those window views are obstructed, some more than others. If you want some natural light for the price of an inside stateroom, these are the staterooms for you. Book 5020, 5022, 5024, 5520, 5522, or 5524 on the Magic Class. Warning, these staterooms are more popular than a Dole Whip on sweltering day in Orlando, so book early!

10. Category 11 – Standard Inside Stateroom – Category 11 inside staterooms no longer carry the word “Deluxe” in the description and that’s mostly due to the bathroom. There are no split bathrooms in category 11 staterooms. Split bathrooms are the standard in all the other categories, and they come with one bathroom with a toilet and sink, and one with a bathtub and sink. While I highly recommend the split bath for families, there are some people who prefer having one larger bathroom as opposed to two smaller ones. Additionally, on the Magic Class ships, there are some 11Bs with a “sideways” layout. These staterooms are somewhat popular and feel a little roomier than the regular inside stateroom layouts. Book one of those 18 staterooms for a unique experience.

That’s my breakdown! Did I forget any that you can think of? Do you have questions about any particular staterooms? Just ask!

Tammy Whiting is the owner of Storybook Destinations . Did you know Storybook Destinations offers a complimentary subscription to TouringPlans with qualified Disney and Universal bookings? Click here for a no-obligation quote on your next vacation.

Tammy Whiting

Tammy has been a lover of all things Disney for most of her life. There’s nowhere on this Earth she’d rather be than on a Disney cruise with her family. She’s a Space Force wife and proud mom of two wonderful children and one beautiful daughter-in-law . She fulfilled a lifelong dream in 2008 and became a travel agent specializing in Disney vacations. She now owns her own travel agency - Storybook Destinations. You can reach Tammy at [email protected].

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Stateroom Categories: Explained

It’s just as simple as booking a stateroom, right? As you start to shop for your next cruise, options abound and seriously confuse. Let’s make some sense of ‘all that is stateroom’ on Disney Cruise Line.

There are four general stateroom categories : Concierge, Oceanview with Verandah, Oceanview and Inside . Within each category and within each ship, there are different options to choose from.

Inside (Categories: 10, 11)

Located on the Interior of the ship
No exterior views *Dream/Fantasy “Magic Portholes”
169-204 sqft

Oceanview (Categories: 8, 9)

One large or two small portholes
Exterior/ocean views
204-241 sqft

Verandah (Categories: 4, 5, 6, 7)

Private balconies
Floor to ceiling windows
246-299 sqft

Concierge (Categories: V, T, S, R)

Suites with balconies
Some with separate living/sleeping areas
306-1781 sq ft
Concierge services

There are now six stateroom types : Standard, Deluxe, Deluxe Family, Deluxe Family Concierge, 1- or 2- Bedroom Suites, Royal Suite. Your family size and space preferences typically play a major role in selecting stateroom type. Listed below are the stateroom type differentiators:

Standard (Inside Category: 11)

Traditional bathroom

Deluxe (Inside Category: 10, Oceanview Category: 9, Verandah Category: 5, 6, 7)

Deluxe Family (Oceanview Category: 8, Verandah Category: 4)

Sleep up to 5

Deluxe Family Concierge (Concierge Category: V)

Concierge service

1- or 2- Bedroom Suites (Concierge Categories: S, T)

Split living/sleeping
Large balconies

Royal Suite (Concierge Category: R)

Each ship has 2
Luxurious, spacious
Large balcony with private whirlpool tub (Dream and Fantasy)

What’s the difference between a Category 4A and 4E? The letters A, B, C, D, and E generally distinguish where on the ship the staterooms are located, with the letter A being the most desired location, for example, midship on a higher deck.

Navigator Verandah’s Category 7A

The Magic and Wonder category 7A staterooms only sleep 3

The Fantasy and Dream category 7A’s sleep 3-4

But what about this Category 8A on the Dream & Fantasy? There are 12 of these rooms on each ship. These are different as they are larger than the average Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom, have a split room set-up BUT no split bath .

Just to keep things interesting, there are a small number of very specific stateroom categories boasting distinct features:

Obstructed/Limited Ocean Views: These rooms have portholes with – you guessed it – partially obstructed views. These rooms are less expensive than their unobstructed-viewed counterparts. Found: Oceanview Category 9C and 9D on the Disney Dream/Fantasy

Oversized Verandah Rooms: Extra balcony space and people rave about these staterooms in our Facebook group discussions. Found: Verandah Category 4E and 5E on the Disney Dream/Fantasy

Navigator’s Verandah: Enclosed verandah with open air porthole. Found: Verandah Category 7A

Whitewall Verandah: The verandah has a solid white wall from deck to railing instead of the standard clear view throughout. Found: Verandah Category 5E, 6A, 6B

Booking with Restrictions? We Got You

IGT = Inside Stateroom with Restrictions OGT = Outside Stateroom with restrictions VGT = Guaranteed Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

When booking these restricted-fare category staterooms, please note the following:

New bookings only. Existing reservations cannot be modified to these new categories.
You are reserving a stateroom within the selected stateroom type: Inside, Oceanview or Verandah*.
Disney Cruise Line will assign your specific stateroom at a later time, based on remaining availability.
Specific stateroom requests will not be accommodated.
Full payment is required at the time of booking for all Guests and is non-refundable.
Sail date and stateroom category changes are not permitted.
The stateroom offer cannot be combined with any other discounted or promotional offer.
Full legal names of all Guests are required at time of booking and no name changes are allowed.

* Most Verandah staterooms include a private verandah with a clear plexiglass wall; some may include a solid white wall depending upon location. A limited number of Oceanview and Verandah staterooms may include a partially obstructed view.

Selecting “Choose Guaranty” guarantees the ship, sailing date and rate. A Category XXX stateroom will be assigned by the time documents are received. Selecting “Choose Guaranty” does not guarantee the stateroom will be on a particular deck or, for multiple staterooms, that the staterooms will be located near each other.

GTY reservations have no restrictions as it is a normal booking. Same rules apply as they do to any booking that has an assigned stateroom.

**Also note that you can be assigned an accessible stateroom without a split bath.

Official DCL link: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/faq/staterooms/stateroom-categories/

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Why an Oceanview Room is the Perfect Choice for First Time Disney Cruisers

One of the initial choices to consider when planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation is what kind of stateroom you and your family would like to stay in. Disney Cruise line offers three basic types of room categories (with the added option of concierge): inside, oceanview, and verandah.

An inside stateroom is the smallest, and by extension the most affordable, of the room categories. Varying slightly in size across the ships, an inside stateroom has no exterior view, although on the Dream and the Fantasy they offer magical portholes with real-time views of the exterior of the ship, as well as occasional visits from beloved Disney characters. An oceanview stateroom is the Goldilocks of stateroom categories, sandwiched between no exterior view and a verandah, the oceanview room offers either one large or two small portholes. Finally, there are the verandah staterooms that offer guests a private outdoor verandah, and of the three room types, are the most expensive.

Keeping in mind the basic room categories, choosing the best suited for your family can be daunting. On our first Disney cruise (which was our first cruise of any kind), we chose an oceanview stateroom mainly because we weren’t sure of our preferences and it seemed like a good “in between” choice. We were not disappointed. Here is why I think booking an oceanview stateroom is a great choice for your first Disney Cruise:

Not Too Small, Not too Big. The idea of an inside stateroom gave our family claustrophobia, but we weren’t sure that we would use the verandah if we splurged for it either. For us, the oceanview category gave us the open feeling we wanted with a porthole, while also providing lots of natural light for the little time we actually spent in our stateroom. Because it was our first Disney cruise, we were more focused on exploring the ship, participating in activities, and doing port adventures so we would not have used the verandah had we had one. It was the perfect compromise for us, giving us a view of the outside of the ship that we wanted without any extras we wouldn’t have used (and hence, money we would have wasted).

The Price is Right. Think of the oceanview room category as being similar to a moderate Disney resort. It’s at the mid-range accommodation price point, which many times is not that much of an increase in price from an inside stateroom. Choosing the oceanview room kept us within budget and allowed for us to splurge on other portions of our vacation.

What Does Your Disney Cruise Vacation Look Like? Considering what you want from your Disney cruise experience plays a big factor in your room selection. How much time will you realistically spend in your stateroom? Does your sailing have a lot of sea days, and if so, do you envision yourself relaxing on your verandah or would you rather be doing things around the ship (or some combination of both)? Could you be content with going to the upper decks of the ship to lounge instead of using your personal verandah?

Choosing the right stateroom category is one of the most important parts of ensuring a memorable and satisfying Disney cruise, and knowing what you want from your room is key to making that decision.

Take a 3D tour of a Family Oceanview Stateroom aboard the Disney Dream below!

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Is Disney Cruise Line concierge level worth it? We tested it to find out.

When you sail on a Disney cruise, everyone gets access to included food, good service and great entertainment. But there's a class of cabins and guests that get a little bit of extra pixie dust — Disney Cruise Line concierge guests.

Disney Cruise Line sits toward the pricier end of the cruising spectrum, even in the most basic of staterooms. But let's assume you've already decided that the cost to cruise with Disney — with the Disney characters, access to an included rotating dining room schedule and evening Broadway-caliber Disney shows — is worth it for you.

Looking at the cabin and amenity options available on Disney cruise ships, you may eventually go further down the rabbit (er, mouse) hole and wonder if Disney Cruise Line's concierge-level rooms and service are worth an additional premium.

To answer this question, we've sailed in a concierge-level room (twice) to see what exactly all that extra cash gets you on Disney Wonder and, more recently, on the new Disney Wish . Here's what we found out about Disney Cruise Line concierge-level rooms, benefits, service and lounge, and whether or not the perks are worth the additional cost.

What is Disney Cruise Line's concierge level?

Disney Cruise Line's concierge level is similar in some ways to a club-level room at a Disney World or Disneyland resort hotel. You pay more for this type of accommodation in exchange for access to a lounge, more attentive service and additional benefits. But the extras for concierge service on a Disney cruise ship actually go much further than the added benefits of a club room at the Disney parks.

Those who decide to spend the extra cash for a concierge-level room will be spoiled with earlier booking dates for excursions and activities, special onboard meals and offerings, the ability to book cabanas at Disney's Castaway Cay private island before others, early access to the theater in the evening to nab the best seats and a private lounge to utilize on the ship.

To access the concierge level on a Disney cruise, you have to book a concierge room type, and the benefits and upgraded service then convey with that cabin type. It's not an add-on you can tack onto an otherwise non-concierge stateroom.

Stateroom types within that concierge class of rooms start at the verandah-level room (i.e., a cabin with a private balcony) and go up in price and size to include a variety of suites. If you're already thinking you want to book a suite, you don't also have to decide about concierge level; you will automatically get Disney Cruise Line's concierge service included with your premium accommodations.

However, if you plan to book a cabin with a balcony, you will need to decide whether you want a room with the standard inclusions or if you want to upgrade to a concierge room with a balcony and all the extra Disney Cruise Line concierge benefits. The difference can be thousands of dollars.

When I priced out Disney Cruise Line concierge rooms, cruise fares started at just over $3,000 for a short sailing for two people. Prices go up to tens of thousands of dollars for concierge level for the larger suites or on longer sailings.

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

Related: Best credit cards for cruises

Disney Cruise Line concierge benefits

Booking a concierge-level room on a Disney cruise brings many perks beyond access to the physical concierge lounge. Here's a quick summary of some of the Disney Cruise Line concierge benefits.

Priority booking of activities and excursions 120 days before sailing.
Priority boarding — be among the first on the ship.
Access to the concierge lounge with included food and drinks.
Complimentary wine, beer and spirits in the concierge lounge in the evenings.
Free popcorn in the movie theaters.
Priority seating for the evening shows.
Priority walk-off on debarkation day.
Room service ordering of hot breakfast or dinner from the main restaurants.
Access to knowledgeable and helpful concierge hosts.

To appreciate the value of these perks, you have to understand how activity bookings work on a Disney cruise. Most cruise lines, including Disney, have an elite status pecking order in terms of when you can board, book premium onboard restaurants, make spa appointments, secure shore excursions and schedule onboard activities.

On Disney Cruise Line, first-time cruisers can make those bookings starting 75 days before sailing. That sounds like plenty of time, but unfortunately, those who have sailed with Disney before can make the bookings 90 to 120 days before setting sail, depending on their Castaway Club status .

However, if you book concierge level, the concierge team asks for your activity preferences via email 125 days before your sail date. They put in your requests precisely when the 120-day booking window opens, so essentially no one can book anything before you. This jump-start increases the odds that you get the spa times, onboard tastings, adults-only restaurant reservations and excursions you want.

Notably, if you want to book a private cabana at Castaway Cay, you basically have to sail in concierge level or have a high tier of status within the Disney Cruise Line program to snag one, as they book up quickly. This strategy works better on Disney's smaller ships; Disney Wish has so many concierge rooms that there's no guarantee you'll get a private cabana if everyone else is vying for the opportunity, as well.

Those in a concierge-level suite can also order from an expanded room service menu that includes meals from a main dining room on the ship. This is the only way to get a hot breakfast delivered to your stateroom.

Disney Cruise Line concierge guests also get priority tendering to ports, when required. Thanks to priority boarding times on embarkation day, we were the third family to come aboard when we sailed on Disney Wonder, which meant we got several more hours on the ship than we did on our first cruise. Boarding first also meant we had the pools and slides to ourselves for a long time.

Port Canaveral, the departure port for several Disney cruise ships, offers an entire lounge with a stocked fridge where concierge guests can wait before boarding starts for that group. Your special treatment starts before you even walk on board.

Once onboard, plan on stopping by the exclusive embarkation-day lunch for concierge-level guests, so you can avoid the lunchtime crowds and get to know your concierge host team. While it's not mandatory to attend, the lunch is a good way to kick off your cruise (before or after you've gotten in any early swimming you want to do).

Pro tip: Get the welcome-aboard sundae if it's on offer.

For me, the best part of the concierge magic is the final thing the concierge staff can do for you on the last morning of your sailing.

On our first cruise, getting off the ship literally took hours. We burned off our "vacation high" in a hurry. But when you cruise in the concierge level, you can enjoy a light breakfast in the lounge, and then the staff can take you and your luggage down a private elevator and straight to the walkway off the ship. Debarkation takes mere minutes.

This may not sound impressive until you've done it the other way, battling thousands of cruisers also ready to disembark. I'm here to tell you that experiencing no lines, no stress and no regrets as the concierge staff escorted us off the ship made for an easier transition back into the real world.

Inside the Disney concierge lounge

The physical concierge lounge is a tangible hallmark of Disney Cruise Line's concierge-level service.

On Disney Wonder, the lounge is located midship on Deck 10, which is almost as high as you can go on the ship. On Disney Wish, the concierge lounge is on decks 12 and 13, which was also one of the topmost decks on that ship.

You must use your keycard to get into the lounge. Near the entrance, concierge staff are waiting to assist you; they will quickly get to know you over the course of the cruise. The staff are basically your cruise fairy godparents. (On the flip side, they'd totally know if you tried to bring in a non-concierge guest, so don't do that.)

The lounges themselves each have a food and beverage area (with a great coffee machine!), along with various seating areas. On Disney Wish, the lounge had a good-sized bar, plus hot tubs and a small pool deck just for concierge guests.

Except on debarkation day and for a private Disney character meet-and-greet when we sailed on Disney Wonder in early 2020, the lounge was rarely crowded during our visits.

In the concierge lounge, you'll find light snacks and small plates that rotate throughout the day with some treats you can only get in this lounge.

On Disney Wish, we enjoyed the lunchtime sushi rolls that we only found in the concierge lounge. We loved to pop in for a snack or dessert for the kids. Since the lounge was so close to the concierge rooms on Wish, it was logistically simpler to grab a quick breakfast or snack there rather than heading over to the main onboard restaurants.

Related: How we made our second cruise better than the first

But what I truly loved about Disney's concierge lounge was the help-yourself-fridge. We stocked the mini-fridge in our stateroom from this main fridge, as well as loaded our backpack before shore excursions.

Each evening, complimentary beer, wine and spirits are served in the lounge by bartenders who seemed to know everyone's names by the second evening. Don't worry if you don't drink or you want something for your kids, mocktails and alcohol-free "daiquiris" were available upon request.

Disney Cruise Line concierge rooms

Disney Cruise Line concierge rooms generally start at the oceanview with verandah level, and they will be clearly labeled as concierge rooms when booking. Disney Wish also offers a few 357-square-foot family oceanview rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows without verandahs within the concierge class, too.

If you're looking for more space, the ships have one-bedroom, two-bedroom and specialty suites (like the insane 1,966-square-foot Tower Suite on Disney Wish). As previously mentioned, all Disney Cruise Line suites come with included concierge access and services.

On Disney Wish, we qualified for concierge access by sailing in a 608-square-foot one-bedroom suite that was just a few doors down from the concierge lounge. It had a master bedroom with a king-sized bed, gorgeous bathroom with a Tangled-inspired mosaic over the bathtub, living room with a couch that converted to a bed and a dining area with a table for four. The divider between the living and dining spaces contained a Murphy bed that pulled down into an additional single bed. The suite more than comfortably slept my two kids, my mom and me.

On Disney Wonder, we had a slightly larger 614-square-foot one-bedroom suite that also conveyed concierge benefits. This suite actually felt more spacious than the one on Wish, though clearly has a more classical look. In both cases, we were royally spoiled with space and service compared to a more standard cruise cabin.

Related: How to choose a cruise cabin

How much do Disney Cruise concierge rooms cost?

Cruise prices vary dramatically, and that's especially true when you start layering in concierge benefits with Disney Cruise Line.

Looking about a year out on a short three-night Disney cruise from Florida to the Bahamas (including a stop at Disney's Castaway Cay), prices for an interior stateroom start at $1,554 for double occupancy or $2,555 for a family of four. On the same cruise, a non-concierge verandah room starts at $1,950 for two or $3,051 for four.

The lowest-level concierge stateroom (with verandah) starts at $3,180 for two or $4,411 for a family of four.

For that extra $1,500 to go up to concierge level, you get access to a little more time on the ship, are likely able to book exactly what you want with no stress, enjoy included evening drinks in the lounge, have snacks at the ready, get free popcorn at the movies, order hot room service breakfast (if you book a suite) and more.

Will almost doubling the cost of the cruise for those extras be worth it to everyone? Absolutely not.

In fact, I recommend against it for your first sailing on Disney Wish unless money is no object. That's because you'll feel compelled to spend your leisure and meal times in the concierge lounge when you should be out exploring all the ship has to offer and experiencing the food and entertainment at Disney's included restaurants.

For travelers who really enjoy lounges, streamlining all the processes, having access to free-flowing drinks and want the highest level of service, I'd argue that a concierge-level cabin can be worth it for a special occasion or once-in-a-lifetime Disney cruise.

On the other hand, for a seven-night Alaska cruise for a family of four, prices start around $7,000 for an interior stateroom, a verandah room is more than $11,000, and a concierge room currently starts at a staggering minimum of over $30,000. In that case, you'll probably never find me in a concierge room simply due to the cost.

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Is Disney Cruise concierge level worth it?

You don't need to spend the extra money to book a concierge room to have a great cruise with Disney. It's already a premium cruise experience. But if you are debating whether concierge level is worth it, I'll try and help you decide.

For us, the biggest perks were the advance booking for meals and activities that wouldn't have been easy for a regular Disney cruiser to secure. The evening lounge drinks, free popcorn at the movies, available sunscreen and help from the concierge staff when our plans would change at the last minute (which happened a few times) were also pretty great.

The private deck on Disney Wish was nice, too.

I'd 100% book Disney concierge level again and would say it can be worth it — mostly on the shorter cruises where every minute matters more than it would on a seven- to 10-day cruise. Additionally, on those shorter cruises, you are more likely to have the stamina to not miss the evening lounge happy hours and to drop in a few times to try some of the snacks.

Those shorter cruises are also when there are fewer opportunities to fit in the adults-only restaurants, spa treatments, drink tastings and onshore activities, making the booking window advantage more important. I'd seriously consider buying up to Disney's concierge level on a three- or four-night sailing where I care about accessing specific restaurants and activities.

If you do get the chance to book a Disney Cruise with all the concierge perks, you're in for a treat. Start packing your cruise bag and planning those excursions and don't look back.

DisneyTips.com Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation

Why you should book a verandah on a disney cruise.

Posted by: Victoria Mills June 13, 2022

The excitement experienced when booking a Disney Cruise is real! That’s the case for any Guest making a reservation with Disney Cruise Line; whether you’re a first-time Disney cruiser, or a Platinum Castaway Club member who’s sailed on more than 25 Disney Cruises, and anywhere in between.

Disney Cruise Line staterooms often have a pretty hefty price tag though, making them a more expensive Cruise Liner to sail with, compared to others. There is often a noticeable price difference to securing an guaranteed oceanview stateroom compared to inside staterooms. Differently though, the price difference between an oceanview stateroom and an oceanview stateroom with verandah may not be as much as you think.

Credit: V Mills

When choosing between staterooms, and wondering whether to bite the bullet and book that verandah, you may need a little advice and guidance. We’re here to do just that! Let us share with you, the reasons why you need to pay a little extra and book that verandah for your next Disney Cruise.

Types of Verandah

Every Disney Cruise Ship offers staterooms with a verandah. Price can vary based on the size, type and location of a verandah stateroom. In terms of verandah category, there are two types available with Disney Cruise Line :

Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah – on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, this stateroom offers Guests 304 square feet, with room to sleep 5 Guests, and is located on Deck 8. Aboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, this stateroom offers Guests 299 square feet, with room to sleep between 3 and 5 Guests, depending on the classification of stateroom. You will find this type of stateroom on Decks 5 through 10 on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. On the Disney Wish , this stateroom offers Guests 284 square feet, with room to sleep up to 5 Guests, and located on Decks 6 through 10.
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah – on the Disney Magic and Disney Wish this stateroom offers Guests 268 square feet, with room to sleep 4 Guests, and is located on Decks 5-8. Some rooms offer an enclosed verandah, with a porthole-shaped view. Aboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, this stateroom offers Guests 246 square feet, with room to sleep up to 4 Guests. You will find this type of stateroom on Decks 5 through 10 on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. Some rooms offer an enclosed verandah, with a porthole-shaped view. On the Disney Wish , this stateroom offers Guests 243 square feet, with room to sleep up to 4 Guests, and located on Decks 6 through 10.

Every private verandah includes: patio furniture; deck lighting; Plexiglas or solid whitewall railings; and child-proof locks to the door. If you are traveling with a bigger party and choose to stay in adjoining rooms, you will likely find that the partition between verandahs can be opened to create a bigger balcony space to enjoy during your Disney Cruise. Check the stateroom category that will work best for your party when booking your Disney Cruise Line stateroom.

Those staterooms offering an enclosed verandah, also known as a Navigators Verandah, include a unique experience. Whilst the verandah isn’t as open as those with private verandahs, they still offer a great view, as well as providing a unique photo opportunity. Seating in these verandahs comes in the form of a bench on either side of the verandah, facing one another. The partition walls are decorated with world maps, and there are navigation-inspired details to the railing below the porthole view. Adventurers in your party, young and old, will certainly appreciate the details in this verandah.

If you are looking to book a concierge room, then you will be guaranteed a verandah regardless of which concierge room you reserve. The cheapest concierge room is a Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. If you’re wanting to splurge, and secure a verandah that includes a whirlpool bath, then you’ll want to look at a Concierge Royal Suite, available on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

Private access to ocean air

One of the highlights of cruising is that you get to feel and breathe in fresh, sea air every single day. The sounds of the ocean very much soothe all of your troubles away. Imagine having your own private access to this every day of your cruise with Disney Cruise Line. You won’t need to change out of your PJs in the morning when you’ve just woken up; instead just take a few steps and walk straight onto your balcony. Likewise, feel a fresh breeze on your face before tucking yourself into bed for the evening. Look for stars in the sky and distant ships in the darkness.

A verandah is also a great thing to have access to after a day exploring a port, such as Disney Castaway Cay . You may be in need of a little shade from the sun, but still want to hear the sea waves against the ship, and feel the ocean breeze on your face. Your verandah is also a great place to enjoy the views when leaving port.

Perfect spot to retreat to

There are so many activities to enjoy on a Disney Cruise, that you won’t find yourself bored. However, you may find that you’re in need to a little time away from all of the fun and other Guests at times. A verandah provides the perfect place to enjoy a little calm.

We love to grab some fruit from Flo’s Cafe when on board the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, and a hot beverage, before taking an hour to ourselves in the afternoon, on our verandah. If cruising on the Disney Magic, we stop by the Duck-In Diner on the way back to our stateroom, and for the Disney Wonder, Daisy’s De-Lites. Lose yourself in a book, whilst listening to the waves below, as you enjoy your afternoon snacks.

If you’re in need of a sweet, and not-so-healthy, sweet treat, Cove Cafe is our go-to for an afternoon snack to enjoy from our verandah.

Room service with a view

Room service is included in the cost of your Disney Cruise, and we definitely recommend taking advantage of it at some point whilst cruising. Just make sure you have some dollars available to tip the Cast Member who delivers it to you, or make a note of their name to include in your tips at the end of your Disney Cruise.

A verandah offers the perfect place to enjoy your room service order. Take a slower morning during your Cruise, particularly if you are taking a longer cruise that provide the benefit of Sea Days, and order breakfast in your room.

We also love to enjoy a Mickey Premium Bar from our verandah during the afternoon. You won’t find a Mickey Bar on the room-service menu, but you can order them straight to your room.

Sunrise and sunset views

You haven’t cruised unless you’ve seen a sunrise and sunset at sea! And what better place to experience these, than from your very own stateroom. Of course, the direction in which you are sailing may not always be in your favor, but we’re sure that at some point during your cruise with Disney Cruise Line, you’ll get to experience these special times of day.

Be sure to check your stateroom TV or the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App for sunrise and sunset times on each day of your Disney Cruise.

Private photo spot

Securing a verandah when booking a cruise with Disney Cruise Line means that you’ll have the perfect spot to take photos of your favorite outfits that you wear when cruising. Nothing will beat that oceanview behind you, and if you time it right, you’ll secure that photo during golden hour too!

A stateroom with a verandah will only enhance your Disney experience with Disney Cruise Line. Go on, you deserve to treat yourself! Get that oceanview verandah stateroom booked now!

About Victoria Mills

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Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

Are you looking for reviews of Disney’s Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah? These Disney Cruise Line cabins offer plenty of space for the whole family.

And, some of them even have enough room to sleep a family of 5! Whether you’re looking for spacious accommodations, a private verandah, or concierge service, the Disney Cruise Line ships provide concierge suites that will meet all your needs!

So, if you’re curious about how a concierge-level room compares to a standard stateroom, continue reading below for our full review and picture tour. We’ll provide a video of our concierge level stateroom that my family and I experienced on the Disney Magic. We will also explain the room perks and exclusive access we received as concierge guests!

Plus, you can find out how this entire experience transpired by our family upgrading at the port from a Deluxe Inside Stateroom to the Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah!

Disney Concierge Family Staterooms

Whether you are cruising on the newest Disney ships like the Disney Wish or Disney Treasure, or you’re planning a vacation on the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic or Disney Wonder, the Concierge Family Oceanview Staterooms are very similar. Boasting close to 300 square feet of space, these staterooms contain two bathrooms AND extra storage space for guests.

cruise cabin with text overlay Disney Cruise Stateroom review with video tour

Throughout this stateroom review, you’ll see pictures of the Disney Magic Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. The concierge level rooms on the other ships have a very similar layout; however, the interior design would differ depending on the ship you book.

Split Bathrooms

When you first walk into the stateroom, you are greeted by a narrow entryway with your stateroom closets on one side and the split bathrooms on the other. Disney Cruise Line provides two separate (aka split) bathrooms in their deluxe cabins and concierge staterooms.

One bathroom houses the toilet and a sink with vanity area. We were provided with a toothbrush holder and extra supplies like Q-tips in this bathroom.

Disney Cruise Line Split Bathroom with toilet and blue vanity

The second bathroom has a shower/tub combo and a sink with a vanity. This shower/tub combination is one of the big draws to Disney Cruise Line if you are cruising with a baby or toddler .

Disney Cruise Line Bathroom with tub and blue vanity holding soaps and shampoo/conditioner

The large pump bottles on the sink were provided by DCL. They included shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion.

Stateroom Photos

If you continue moving through the entryway, you will enter the living space of the cabin with a bedroom and sitting area.

Each side of the queen-size bed has a small nightstand with storage and outlets to charge your devices.

The staterooms on Disney cruise ships include a heavy privacy curtain (pictured above) to use as a room divider. This thick curtain works really well to keep out light and noise from the other side of the room.

In the living room area of your stateroom, you will find a sofa and a chest for additional storage space. This couch is actually a single convertible sofa, which provides additional sleeping space for one person.

Disney Cruise Concierge Living Room with Sofa

Our room also held a Murphy Bed and an extra chair, both of which you can see in the back of the above photo. The Disney cruise ship rooms that feature this Murphy Bed (along with the upper berth pull-down bed and the pull-out couch) allow the stateroom to sleep up to 5 people.

Disney Cruise Concierge Stateroom Storage and Vanity

The large dresser in the room also serves as a desk and vanity. This area holds a flat screen TV, mirror, and lots of drawers and shelves.

Your stateroom refrigerator, hair dryer, and additional pamphlets and information on cruising with Disney are all located here as well.

Disney Magic Stateroom Verandah with two blue chairs and a white side table overlooking the ocean

Along with providing extra space, the verandah also holds two chairs and a small side table. This private balcony with patio furniture provides a nice area to hang out outdoors and to view the beautiful scenery you are passing by. The plexiglass railing allows you to see straight out to the ocean even while sitting down.

Disney Cruise Bunk Beds

No matter which category of room you choose with Disney Cruise Line, your stateroom host will provide a nightly turndown service. We did not need the Murphy Bed that was in our room, so our host left it closed each night.

However, he did open the bunk bed from the ceiling. This is where my six year old slept, and it was one of the highlights of the trip for her!

The stateroom hosts also leave a towel animal at the foot of the bed each night with chocolate treats. My older daughter loved returning to the room each night to see what type of animal was waiting.

Baby and Toddler Amenities

If you are traveling with a baby, the stateroom host can set up a pack-n-play for you in your room if needed.

We usually forgo the pack-n-play and just have our host put a bed rail on the pullout couch or bed for our toddler.

Cabin Storage and Organization

If you sail in a Concierge stateroom or a Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah, you’ll notice that they come with tons of storage space. My family of four had plenty of room for all of our things on our Disney cruise from Port of Miami .

Since the beds are elevated, you should be able to store your suitcases and bags underneath it no matter which category of room you book. We had two large suitcases and several small bags, and they ALL fit under the stateroom bed with room to spare.

Disney Cruise Line Stateroom Closet with foldable hanging closet storage

I often travel with a hanging closet shelf (pictured above) for additional storage and organization. These are super easy to pack because they fold up flat and don’t take up much space in your luggage. The rest of our things fit comfortably in the available drawers and shelves in the room. In fact, we even had extra shelves we didn’t use.

One of my favorite ways to stay organized in the stateroom (or on any vacation) is by using packing cubes. Each member of my family has a set in a specific color. When I unpack our luggage, I simply take out the packing cube and lay it on a shelf or inside a drawer.

Bagail Packing Cubes for travel organization

I can stack several cubes on top of each other without mixing up all of the items. So, I could put my toddler’s pajamas in her pink packing cube and my older daughter’s pajamas in her blue packing cube. Then, I can place them in the same drawer without them getting scattered and mixed.

cabin pictures with text overlay Concierge Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

My husband travels a lot for work, and even he said they are one of the best things I’ve ever ordered from Amazon! For a complete checklist, check out our Disney Cruise Line Packing List !

Concierge Room Amenities

The Disney Cruise Line staterooms include many amenities such as a refrigerator, hair dryer, and toiletries as mentioned above. If you are sailing Concierge, your stateroom’s refrigerator will be stocked with bottled water and canned soda.

Concierge Refrigerator in Disney Magic Stateroom holding bottled waters and canned soft drinks

If you are sailing in one of the concierge-level suites, your Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah will include additional amenities. Some of the extra special touches you will find are:

two televisions (one in bedroom/one in living area)
fruit basket

For a full account of all the benefits included with sailing in this room type, we highly suggest you check out our post on Disney Concierge Level Perks . In that article, we go into detail about the amazing concierge benefits you receive when sailing in this exclusive category with Disney. That post includes information on perks like early access booking activities, Castaway Cay benefits, the Concierge Lounge, and more!

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Additionally, if you are interested in reading about how my family upgraded our stateroom to Concierge at the port during check in, you can check out this post: How to Upgrade Your Disney Cruise at the Port .

Video Tour of Concierge Family Stateroom

This video tour is of a Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. Specifically, this is room 8076 on the Disney Magic. If you have any questions about the room, feel free to comment below, and I will be happy to give extra input!

We loved the location of this room because it was right by the stairs leading up to Cabanas and the pool deck. My only complaint would be that we could hear chairs being dragged across the floor on the Disney Magic pool deck above.

This wasn’t a huge deal for us because my toddler wakes up super early anyway. We also sleep with a noise app that helped to drown out the sound of the chairs.

Additionally, the noise from the connecting door was a slight issue during the trip. Some (not all) of the staterooms on Disney cruise ships have a door that connects them to the next room.

Extra TV in Concierge Stateroom on the Disney Magic

These adjoining staterooms come in handy if you are booking two separate rooms for your family. The downside to these connecting doors is that noise seems to travel through them more than it does through the walls.

On our last cruise, we could hear the baby in the room beside us through the adjoining door. This is just something to think about when booking your stateroom on your next cruise.

Final Review of the Concierge Family Oceanview Staterooms

Disney Cruise Line does a fantastic job of providing storage space and room amenities that meet the needs of families. It is our favorite way to travel with young kids because DCL truly works to make your vacation super stress free.

I don’t think you can go wrong no matter which stateroom you choose to book. However, if you can swing a concierge level stateroom in your Disney cruise budget , you won’t be disappointed!

We hope you have a magical time on your Disney Cruise Line sailing!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

25 Best Disney Cruise Tips for First Timers

Disney Magic Cruise Review (with Tips for Families)

How Much Does a Disney Cruise Cost (Planning on a Budget)

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Disney Cruise Line Planning Tips and Timeline

Doing Laundry on Disney Cruise Line Ships

Accommodations

Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, all reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, deluxe oceanview stateroom with verandah categories 05a-05e, 06a, 06b disney dream.

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom Information | Stateroom Pics | Stateroom Video

Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandahs fall into categories 05A-05E, and categories 06A and 06B. They are all 246 square feet, including the verandah, with the split bathrom configuration and will sleep either three or four guests. Categories 06A and 06B have whitewall verandahs, but otherwise the only difference in the categories is ship location.

Deluxe Oceanview staterooms with verandahs include a queen-size bed and single convertible sofa. Some offer an upper berth pull-down bed. The cabin features a split bathroom configuration with a sink and shower/tub in one area and a sink and toilet in the other. The stateroom sleeps 3-4 and is 246 square feet, including the verandah. For storage there is a closet and a small chest of drawers, with additional drawer space in the desk and nightstands. The bed is high enough that suitcases easily fit under it. Many staterooms feature a connecting door to the adjoining stateroom.

Amenities include: 22" LCD flat screen TV on swivel arm with remote, iPod docking station, full length mirror, small refrigerator, in-room safe, phone with voice messaging, individual climate control, and privacy curtain. The private verandah has a small table and two chairs. There is a child-proof lock on the door.

Category 05A – Decks 9, 10 Category 05B – Deck 8 Category 05C – Deck 7 Category 05D – Deck 6 Category 05E – Deck 5 Category 06A – Decks 8, 9, 10 Category 06B – Decks 5, 6, 7

Stateroom Photos

(click on photo for larger size)

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Disney Dream Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah: Full Walkthrough

by Kelly Coffey-Behrens | Nov 1, 2023 | Disney Cruise Line , Disney Dream

We’re taking you through a walkthrough of a Disney Dream Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah aboard the ship.

Are you thinking about booking a cruise aboard the Disney Dream but are wondering what exactly is included in a stateroom? There are four different types of staterooms on Disney Cruise Line’s Dream ship, including Concierge, Oceanview with Verandah, Oceanview, and Inside. We’re taking you inside a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with a Verandah aboard the Disney Dream so you know exactly what to expect before boarding.

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If you book a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with a Verandah, the moment you open the door to your stateroom, you will have a closet as well as two small bathrooms – one with a shower and sink and one with a toilet and sink. Plus, the bathroom with the toilet also has shelves, allowing for you to store toiletries such as deodorant, perfume, makeup, etc.

Courtesy of video by Tatjana Lazar

The shower is a bit on the smaller side, especially if you have someone taller in your party, however, the shower size is pretty much the same regardless of the type of stateroom you book.

One of the highlights about the bathrooms on the Disney Dream Verandah stateroom is that the bathroom with the toilet and the bathroom with the shower are in separate rooms, so if someone is in the shower, someone else in the party can still utilize the toilet if need be.

In regard to storage space, the closet in the stateroom is extremely spacious and has plenty of room for clothes as well as a small set of shelves for your shoes. The closet also has a locked safe, a laundry bag, and life jackets in case of emergencies.

Sleeping Arrangements Aboard the Disney Dream Verandah Stateroom

Oceanview Verandah rooms on the Disney Dream tend to sleep 3 to 5 guests depending on the type of room. Every room includes a queen bed as well as a small dresser at the foot of the bed, with a handful of shelves for your clothes. Next to the queen bed, guests will find a small nightstand with a small drawer – one on either side.

Once Guests walk past the sleeping area, they will find the living area, which doubles as the second sleeping area as it includes a sleeper sofa as well as an upper berth pull-down bed.

In this section, there is also a small table, a dresser with more drawer space, and a vanity, complete with a television, a mirror, and more drawers. There is also a mini fridge behind one of the doors.

Between the queen bed and the sleeper sofa, Guests will find a privacy curtain, which is perfect for families with different sleep schedules.

The Private Verandah View

The cruise experience will enhance the second you slide open the glass door and step out on your very own private deck, which includes two patio chairs and a small glass table.

Start your day off on the right foot with a cup of coffee and some pastries while enjoying the ocean view – or, after you put the kids to bed, end your day with a bottle of wine and the peacefulness of the ocean waves while looking out at the starry night sky. Regardless of your preference, the private verandah allows all types of families to enjoy the views and sounds of the ocean all while in your very own space.

Video Walkthrough

For a full walkthrough of a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with a Verandah on the Disney Dream, you can check out our full video walkthrough from our time aboard the ship.

Book Your Trip on the Disney Dream

Keep in mind this is the layout specifically for a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with a Verandah aboard the Disney Dream. Other types of staterooms on the Disney Dream may have different layouts and different amenities so be sure to check in with your Travel Agent before booking a specific type of room!

If you’re looking to book a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with a Verandah aboard the Disney Dream, or any room on a Disney Cruise Line ship, we recommend doing so through our partners at Destinations to Travel . They’ll provide you with a free quote and help plan out your trip to make it as magical as possible.

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Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah Review – Is It A Good Choice?

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What are the Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah really like?

When you know that you want to book a Disney Cruise, choosing the right stateroom can sometimes be confusing. There are a number of different choices.

Here we will guide you through the options.

Remember too that when we talk about Disney Fantasy this also includes the Dream. Their fundamental design is the same so the staterooms are identical.

We are talking only about the main part of the ship. Concierge has verandah staterooms but we do not cover those in this article.

What Type of Verandah Staterooms Do the Fantasy and Dream Have?

Disney fantasy deluxe family oceanview staterooms with verandah features, is this the best choice of stateroom for a family of 5, which deck should i choose for my deluxe family oceanview stateroom with verandah, pack like a cruise expert, want to know more about the disney fantasy.

There are 2 different types of verandah staterooms on the Dream Class ships.

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

In this guide, we are discussing the second one on the list – the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah.

The important extra word is “Family”.

The Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah sleeps either 3 or 4 guests and has 246 square feet of space.

The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah sleeps up to 5 guests and has 299 square feet of space.

As you can see, the “Family” Verandah Stateroom is larger and has the capacity to sleep up to 5 guests.

The Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah is our first choice if the price is right.

However, often the price of a Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom is significantly more than the Deluxe Oceanview with Verandah.

They are in high demand and limited supply.

The easiest way to get an overview of these staterooms is by watching this video:

The Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms on the Disney Fantasy is a very generous 299 square feet.

This includes the verandah, but it is still a generous size for a cruise ship cabin.

The Disney cruise ships’ staterooms are large for the industry standard. If you compare the size of a Carnival verandah stateroom on one of their newest ships, Carnival Panorama, this is just 185, with a 35 square foot verandah on average.

They are also incredibly well designed with plenty of storage, a split bathroom and are very spacious even for a family of 5.

Would I want to sleep 5 adults in this stateroom? Not really! But it is great for 2 adults and 3 kids.

The Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is classified as Categories 4A – 4E.

They are located in Midship of Decks 6 – 10.

Usually the higher the deck, the more you pay.

I usually book Deck 8 midships and found it to be a good location.

We prefer to be midships on the Disney Fantasy as it is a larger ship than the Magic and the Wonder.

There can be a lot of walking to be done, but being mid-ship makes it more, well, central!

Each Deluxe Family Oceanview stateroom has a Queen sized bed in the bedroom. There is also a separate living area with a sofa.

At night the living area magically transforms into a sleeping space for 3, with bunk beds and a bed that pulls down from the wall.

You do need to think about this bedding configuration if you are going to have 5 guests in the stateroom.

You will have a Queen bed, an upper and lower bunk (converted from the sofa), and a pull-down Murphy bed.

The sofa bed is pretty comfy for me – but not for my over 6-foot teenager. You have to think about who will actually be sleeping on these beds.

The Murphy bed is also comfortable. The only issue with that one is that it goes right across the balcony window and door.

If you are an early riser and want to get to the verandah you are going to have to climb over the person in the Murphy bed!

The living and sleeping areas can be separated with a curtain. This actually does a pretty good job of keeping the two spaces separate.

The decor in the stateroom is understated Disney. Lots of nice wood and tasteful colors.

Disney cruise ships are famous for the split bath concept. Most of the staterooms on the Disney ships have this split bath design.

Disney dream verandah stateroom bathroom

There is one room that has the toilet and the sink, and another which has the bath, shower, and an additional sink. This is a great design, particularly for families with children.

Another tip if you want to speed up the time it takes for everyone to get ready in the morning, is that the adults can use the showers in the Spa.

They are really nice and have free spa products to use.

We do this particularly when we have a Rainforest Room Pass , but you don’t have to have one to use the spa showers.

The verandah has enough space to fit two chairs and a small side table.

The Disney Fantasy does have some improvements to the design on the Fantasy over the Disney Wonder staterooms .

We love the Disney Wonder but have to admit that the Fantasy rooms are a bit nicer.

You can see our review at Disney Wonder Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom Review

There is plenty of storage space in the Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah.

The place that is often overlooked is the huge amount of storage space under the beds on the Disney Fantasy.

You can easily store your suitcases under the bed.

On the Disney Fantasy, the look of the room is a lot more streamlined and seems to have more storage space as the built-in cabinets go the whole length of the living area wall.

There is also storage on the Fantasy in the table.

We didn’t use this in our stateroom this time though. I did think about using it but was concerned I would actually forget I had put things in there!

I really liked the addition of the night lights too. The kids don’t like to sleep with the light off completely but the night-light gave the right level of illumination to please them but not be too bright so the grown-ups were kept awake.

The round tub in the bathroom is another interesting feature. Not sure what I thought of this really, except my youngest loved the concept of a round bath.

The shower is a very nice upgrade from the Wonder though as it has a rain shower and the usual shower spray. It is a decent-sized shower.

You aren’t fighting to keep the shower curtain from touching you as you are on some other cruise ships!

Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom Review

The answer is a very definite – maybe.

This can be a great option for a family with 2 adults and 3 children.

However, you have to consider another option – that you book 2 staterooms.

This could be a better option for you as it would give you more space and 2 bathrooms.

There are some different combinations you can consider:

2 Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah. This will be the most expensive option, but will give you a lot of space, and a chance to have a larger connecting verandah. Many of the staterooms also connect.
2 Oceanview Staterooms. This is an option only if you don’t mind not having a Verandah.
One Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah and one Inside Stateroom. You may even be able to get these opposite, or at least very close to each other. This is a great option for larger families so that they do have a balcony in one stateroom, but that they also have more space and an additional bathroom.

This is a very much debated topic!

These staterooms are available on Deck 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.

Usually the higher the stateroom, the higher the price.

Deck 10 will most likely be the highest price in this category. It is directly under the pool deck so very easy to get to that area of the ship.

Some guests do report some noise from the pool deck, but most find it is not a problem. If you want to be close to the pool and don’t mind the extra cost, then these are ideal.

However, I tend to just look at where the best price is and balance that with the location. I don’t find too much difference with location and would rather save the dollars.

Have you stayed in a Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah? What did you think of it?

The Disney Fantasy sails out of Port Canaveral Florida on mostly 7 night Western and Eastern Caribbean sailings.

If you are considering booking a cruise on the Disney Fantasy here are some more guides to help you:

Disney Fantasy Restaurant Guide

Disney Fantasy – How Much Does it Cost?

Avoid these Disney First Time Cruiser Mistakes

Castaway Cay – What You Need to Know About Disney’s Private Island

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando. In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

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Disney Magic Stateroom 8598 Tour – Category 4E Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah

During #DCLBlogCruise 2 aboard the Disney Magic, we stayed in stateroom 8598 , a Category 4E Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah. In general, the category offers 304 square feet of space, features the popular split bath layout, and sleeps up to 5 guests with additional Murphy bed and drop down bunk. The oceanview part of the name is due to the white wall verandah. It is worth noting, the stateroom would be similar aboard the Disney Wonder.

Stateroom 8598 is located on the starboard side almost all the way aft. The aft stairs and elevators are a short walk down the hallway providing quick access to Cabanas & the pool deck!

Just like the staterooms across the fleet, the bed is elevated providing ample storage space to store suitcases for the duration of the sailing after unpacking. This stateroom is an organizer’s delight with plenty of additional storage space. Similar to most rooms, you have a closet opposite the split bath, then over on the other side of the stateroom, the desk adds offers additional drawers. On top of all that, there is a large dresser at the foot of the Murphy bed near the verandah door. There was more than enough space to hold a week’s worth of clothes and belongings for the 3 of us which is awesome as it keeps the stateroom looking orderly.

Disney Magic 4E Stateroom 8598 Closet Safe

This stateroom category offers the convenient split bath, which allows for two people to simultaneously get ready for dinner and other activities.

The stateroom suitable for up to 5 guests was extremely comfortable for the 3 of us. The queen size bed is near the bath with pull out couch and drop down bunk in the middle opposite the desk. Along the verandah door is a Murphy bed. Since Isabelle chose the drop down bunk, we did not use the Murphy bed which left the area near the verandah wide open making the room feel huge.

The stateroom is listed as an Oceanview with verandah because the view is limited due to what is referred to as a whitewall verandah. The nice part about this stateroom’s outdoor space is that it is protected with the additional overhang from deck 9. The overhang offers additional shade depending on the time of day and helps when it is raining allowing use of the space in inclement weather. While the view from inside the stateroom is hampered, the stateroom still offers a spot to enjoy some fresh sea air without leaving your cabin.

I hope you enjoy the following video tour of stateroom 8598 aboard the Disney Magic.

Overall, we really enjoyed this stateroom. As I mentioned, the stateroom 8598 is spacious, and would be a highly recommended stateroom for a longer sailing where the room will be much more of a home away from home. The amazing storage storage space will help keep the room tidy even with 5 guests. One really small, but amazing feature of this stateroom which I almost forgot to mention was a bench seat near the closet. It was useful as a seat to put on shoes, as well as a lower shelf to quickly drop off a backpack. We did not encounter any noise issues, and the room was in great shape.

Have you stayed in this type of room, what did you think about it?

Do you have a stateroom review to share? You can submit your own stateroom review. Start by searching for your stateroom on this page , then look for the link titled Submit your own stateroom review .

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One Reply to “Disney Magic Stateroom 8598 Tour – Category 4E Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah”

Hi Scott! How were the vibrations in this stateroom? We stayed in 8574 and felt a lot of vibration. Not sure if it gets better or worse the more aft you are. Thanks!

Deluxe Family Oceanview Vs. Deluxe Verandah

Thread starter AnnieMouseMom
Start date Sep 27, 2017

AnnieMouseMom

Earning my ears.

Sep 27, 2017

Hello! We are new to Disney cruising and just booked a cruise with the deluxe verandah room on the Dream that's supposed to be 299 sq ft. But photos make the square deluxe oceanview room look so much bigger! I also have a three-year old and am a little worried about her with the verandah. Any thoughts on which room is preferable?

Did you book a "Family" verandah -- category 4? Or a regular verandah - categories 5, 6, or 7? The "Family" designation indicates a larger stateroom. I ask because you mention 299 sq ft, which is the category 4 Family verandah size. The regular verandah is 246 sq ft, which is about the same as the family oceanview (cat. 8) at 241 sq ft. I'm not sure what pictures you have seen, but there are a few category 8 staterooms which are more squarish shaped than most -- these do appear roomier and are highly popular for that reason. They were originally intended to be handicapped accessible, but for whatever reason are not designated as such, hence the more open floor space. Most staterooms in all categories are more rectangular, long and narrow, rather than square. My family cruises in an oceanview, we've never felt the need for a verandah. However my understanding of verandah rooms is that the doors are heavy and the locks are high. If you keep the door locked, your child shouldn't be able to get out there without you. Enjoy your cruise!

FigmentSpark

Dis veteran.

Have earned one ear!

Of eight cruises, we have had a verandah for half. The one that demands a verandah is on the Wonder in Alaska.

Cackyschmackers

We love the verandah! If budgeting allows, go for it! Am wondering how many in your party, 4 or 5? We've been in the larger 4B and smaller 7A, depending on how many in the room. Nothing like cruising with your own private verandah, if budget allows. There are child locks in addition to the regular lock on the door, if that helps. But I understand some are not fans of small kids and verandahs. Our youngest were 5, and they were fine on it, paid attention to the no climbing on furniture rules, but everyone knows their own kid. Whatever you choose, have the best time! Nothing like the ocean sea air and amazing views!

We loved the verandah on our first cruise and decided to go with one again for our second cruise. I haven't done the oceanview stateroom, but for me, the verandah was worth it. We had two 4 year-olds (and a 7 year-old) and didn't have any issues. The doors are very heavy and do lock at the top. Beyond that, our kids are all very low-key and although we did set rules around the furniture on the verandah, it just wasn't an issue. But, if you have a child who is especially rambunctious, I could see it being a worry. Just depends on the individual children, I think.

Sep 28, 2017

Cackyschmackers said: We love the verandah! If budgeting allows, go for it! Am wondering how many in your party, 4 or 5? We've been in the larger 4B and smaller 7A, depending on how many in the room. Nothing like cruising with your own private verandah, if budget allows. There are child locks in addition to the regular lock on the door, if that helps. But I understand some are not fans of small kids and verandahs. Our youngest were 5, and they were fine on it, paid attention to the no climbing on furniture rules, but everyone knows their own kid. Whatever you choose, have the best time! Nothing like the ocean sea air and amazing views! Click to expand...

MinnesotaMouseketeers

Our first two cruises were ocean view, the third we got a veranda and we have never looked back since. We use our veranda throughout the cruise. If you think that you will be out of your stateroom most of the cruise just going back at night to sleep; I would save the cash and go with an ocean view room. If you think you will be going back to the room throughout the day for down time and naps for your three year old, the veranda is a nice place to sit and watch the world go by. I'm an early riser so I will walk the decks for a little while while most of the other cruisers are still sleeping or getting ready for the day. Then I will go to the drink station, grab a coffee, go back to the stateroom, grab the Navigator and go out on the veranda while I am waiting for my wife to get moving. We both go back throughout the day just to get away from the crowd and it's a great place to relax a little before calling it a night. As others have mentioned, the locks on the veranda doors are high up and they are fairly heavy to slide open.

Thank you so much, everyone! I think we will go ahead and stick with the Verandah! Can't wait for our first cruise!

One thing I don't think was mentioned in the cat 4 family veranda staterooms, the shower is round, no bath tub (to speak of). The extra space of the room is fantastic and we loved the round shower, but it might not work with a little one? Just a thought...

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Disney World vs Disney Cruise – Costs, Experiences

Vacations to the Walt Disney World theme parks or a cruise on the Disney Cruise Line are both large financial expenses. However, both vacations can make amazing memories for your family that can last a lifetime. The Disney World theme parks and Disney cruises both offer unique experiences, and many families often wonder if one is better than the other. So this leads us to the comparison of Disney World vs Disney Cruise!

We have taken several Disney cruise vacations and visit the Disney World theme parks weekly. In this article we will compare a trip to the Disney World theme parks and a Disney cruise including costs, experiences, dining, accommodations, and entertainment for each. We will weigh the pros and cons to each type of Disney vacation and give our personal opinion on which one we think is best in each category.

Let's get into all the pros and cons of a Disney World vs Disney Cruise.

In this article:

Walt Disney World vs. Disney Cruise – Costs

Although Disney Cruises are usually more expensive than most Disney World vacations, they include other perks that Disney World park tickets do not include. For example, Disney cruise packages usually include food and the cost of your room. Vacations to Disney World require several separate purchases including theme park tickets, hotels, and food which can add up very quickly. However, the positive side to customizing your Disney World vacation is that you can pick and choose how you want to spend your money.

There are also ways to help make your Disney World or Disney cruise cheaper or more cost effective depending on the length and the time of year you take a cruise. In addition to our favorite reseller Get Away Today , Disney Cruise Line's website breaks down the cost of each cruise depending on length, destination, and choice of rooms. Disney World also has a Special Offers, Deals & Discounts website for various discounts which is periodically updated.

As a price comparison, we will look at a four night stay at a moderate Disney World hotel and a four night Disney cruise sailing to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral, Florida, which is about an hour away from Disney World. We will use a family of four as an example with two adults and two children under the age of 18. We will also use the same time frame to compare the cost of each trip during the same period to avoid any upcharges associated with popular times of the year.

Cost of a Four Night Disney Cruise

A Disney cruise sailing between June 3-7, 2024, from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the Bahamas on the Disney Wish cruise ship would cost $6,942 for the cheapest stateroom. If you wanted an oceanview stateroom, the cost would increase to $7,150, which isn't a horrible upcharge for a better view. The next best room, the Verandah, which is a more spacious stateroom with a private verandah would cost $7,622 .

Although the price tag seems high, keep in mind that the cost of the cruise would include, but is not limited to, the following:

Entertainment and Activities including Broadway-quality shows, fireworks, character experiences and meet and greets, movie screenings in a state-of-the-art theater or on the ship deck, water slides, and more.
24 Hour Dining including table service meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as quick-service bites during lunch, dinner, and snacks. Cruises also provide 24-hour room service, unlimited ice cream, coffee, tea, and soda.
Accommodations including spacious staterooms with a refrigerator, safe, hairdryer, and shower products.
Kids Clubs for varying age groups including 3 to 10 years old, 11 to 14 years old, and 14 to 17 years old.
Adult-Exclusive Activities including nightclubs and lounges with live music, an adults-only pool and whirlpool spa, and fitness center.
Disney's Private Island at Castaway Cay which includes a family and adults-only beach, waterslides and splash zones, beach gear to rent such as towels and chairs, live music, character appearances, and a barbecue lunch.

Although not absolutely necessary, there are several upgrades guests can purchase separately on a Disney cruise. These are not included in the total cost of a cruise but may be considered when booking a Disney cruise. These upgrades include, but are not limited to:

Adult-Exclusive Fine Dining
Bottled Water, Alcoholic Beverages, and Specialty Drinks
Services at Senses Spa & Salon
Snorkel gear, floats, rafts, bicycle rentals at Castaway Cay
Port Adventures at Castaway Cay

Cost of a Four Night Disney World Vacation

Although there are several packages and ways to bundle your Disney World vacation, we will simply look at the cost of a hotel, park tickets, and the Disney Dining Plan for each member of the family.

For a four night stay at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter, as well as 4-day theme park tickets (one park per day), and the quick-service Disney Dining Plan, it would cost $4,622. This price would include, but is not limited to, the following:

Theme park tickets for each member of the family. For this package, the family of four would be able to visit one of the four Disney World theme parks per day. Note that this price does not include the park hopper add-on option, which would cost an additional total of $383.40 . If you wanted to add the Water Park and Sports option, that would be an additional $298.20 and would allow guests to visit Disney's two water parks as well as play miniature golf and other activities. For an additional $468.60 , the family could add the park hopper plus option, which allows guests to park hop between any theme park or water park each day and enjoy any of Disney's miniature golf courses.
Hotel room at one of Disney World's moderate level resorts. Port Orleans – French Quarter is a very popular and guest favorite resort located near Disney Springs, which has some of the best dining options and shopping. This resort is a fairly less expensive option, but still offers many amenities including a pool, lounge, quick-service restaurant, and a unique New Orleans theme.
Disney Dining Plans for each member of the family. There are two different dining plans to choose from, and this price includes the less expensive option, known as the quick-service dining plan. The quick-service dining plan includes two quick-service meals, one snack or non-alcoholic drink, and one resort refillable drink mug per person per day. For $470 more, you have the option to upgrade to the Disney Dining Plan. This plan includes one table service or character dining meal, one quick-service meal, one snack or non-alcoholic drink, and one resort refillable drink mug per person per day. Guests using either dining plan receive their meals and snacks each day until the day of checkout. Any unused meals or snacks will over over day to day and expire at midnight on the day of checkout.

There are several other Disney World vacation expenses that you will want to consider purchasing separately. There is the obvious merchandise expenses which will vary from family to family. Some do not purchase any souvenirs at the theme parks, but this is very unlikely as you will probably want to purchase at least a few things to remember your trip.

Other purchases for a Disney World vacation include:

Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane , or “fast passes,” must be purchased separately and can add up quickly for a family of four. Genie+ ranges anywhere between $16 and $39 per person per day . Individual Lightning Lanes range between $10 and $20 per person per attraction . Although you may not need Genie+ for every park and every ride requiring Individual Lightning Lane, it may be convenient. Disney World advertises that Genie+ allows guests to skip the standby line of at least 2 or 3 attractions per day. In our experiences, if you use Genie+ effectively you can probably book up to 5 or 6 Genie+ reservations per day. Whether or not you plan on purchasing Genie+, check out our full guides for Disney World theme park early entry strategies for Animal Kingdom , Magic Kingdom , EPCOT , and Hollywood Studios for more tips on how to get the most of your park day. Additionally, check out our full guide on how to purchase and use Genie+ .
Disney Photo Pass Digital Downloads , known as Memory Maker , allows your family to download digital copies of all photos taken on select attractions and locations throughout the theme parks. If purchased in advance, the Memory Maker package costs $185 and saves all photos taken on your vacation for a 30 day time period. If you do not purchase the Memory Maker before your vacation, it will cost $210 . Memory maker is a great way to remember your vacation for years to come and we recommend purchasing in advance to save on the $25 upcharge.

Overall, the cost of a Disney cruise package will likely be more expensive, but when considering all of the additional add-on purchase for Disney World vacations, it could come out to be a very similar price range. Keep in mind that these prices do not include any potential discounts that may make a big difference. Make sure to check out our full guide on finding discounted Disney World tickets here . Besides purchasing a package through our favorite Disney-verified re-seller Get Away Today, you may also be able to find cheaper tickets through Florida resident, military, AAA, Costco, or other discounts. This is all helpful information to know when considering Disney World vs Disney Cruise.

Discount Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise Tickets

Whether you choose to visit Disney World or take a Disney Cruise, we highly recommend checking out our favorite Disney-verified ticket reseller, Get Away Today! Save money and have a magical vacation with the lowest Disney World ticket prices and you can find. You can also find discount tickets for other Orlando theme parks as well! Get Away Today can not only help you plan your Disney World vacation, but save you the most money possible.

Additionally, for a limited time only, if you book your next Disney Cruise through Get Away Today you'll be eligible for a $400 onboard credit. This credit can be used for fine dining, merchandise, workout classes, and more during your Disney cruise. Get Away Today also offers up to 50% savings on cruises with Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival Cruises . It's never too early to book a cruise, and Disney cruises in particular are in high demand. Therefore, we highly recommend snagging these deals before they are gone.

Get Away Today has been working with Disney for over 33 years, so you can depend on their long history of knowledge and customer service to get the best deals.

Let Get Away Today provide you with a free vacation quote today! Based on your specific vacation needs, their excellent customer service team will provide the best possible pricing and experiences to help make your vacation stress free and memorable.

Walt Disney World vs. Disney Cruise – Experiences

The experiences on a Disney cruise compared to a vacation at Disney World are extremely different and honestly hard to compare. The experiences are both unique in their own right and is likely based on your personal preference. The positive side to experiences on Disney cruises is that they are all very easy to access, whereas at Disney World you usually have to drive or walk a fair distance to experience a lot of what Disney World property has to offer. However, since Disney World is so large, they have more experiences for guests to enjoy.

In this section, I will compare the various experiences between Disney World and Disney Cruises including character meet and greets, excursions and recreational activities, as well as the overall atmosphere of each.

Disney World vs. Disney Cruise – Character Meet and Greets

For those interested in meeting characters, you will definitely have your fill at both Disney World and on a Disney cruise. Although there will obviously be more opportunities and unique characters throughout Disney World, Disney cruises are very unique because you can have more personal and up close interactions with characters more often.

Disney Cruise Character Meet and Greets

The characters on Disney cruises mostly depends on what ship you are sailing on, however you can count on meeting the classic Disney characters such as Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, and Donald during any Disney cruise. Disney cruises also have special meet and greets with characters from various Pixar and Marvel movies.

These character meet and greets include, but are not limited to:

Meet Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf from Frozen during the Arendelle dining experience on the Disney Wish
Meet your favorite Marvel characters on the Disney Magic during Marvel Day at Sea on the Disney Magic or the Worlds of Marvel dining experience on the Disney Wish
Join Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, and Donald on at Mickey's Sail-A-Wave Party on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder
Meet your favorite Pixar characters from Toy Story, Up, Monster's Inc. and More at the Pixar Pals Party on the Disney Wonder
Meet your favorite Disney characters in pirate-themed costumes on Pirate Day on all cruise ships – Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish

Disney cruise guests will receive a schedule of when and where you can meet and interact with these favorite characters.

Disney World Character Meet and Greets

Although there are a lot more character meet and greets throughout Disney World theme parks, resorts, and restaurants, they are not as easy to get to compared to the Disney cruise ships. However, with proper research and planning everyone in your party is sure to meet one of their favorite characters. Below we will list all of the permanent character meet and greets throughout the Disney Work parks, however, there are other character dining experiences at resort restaurants as well. Check out our full guide on Disney World character dining here .

Guests can meet the following characters at Magic Kingdom:

Enchanted Tales with Belle
Meet Ariel at Her Grotto
Meet Characters from Aladdin in Adventureland
Meet Cinderella and a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall
Meet Princess Tiana and a Visiting Princess at Princess Fairytale Hall
Meet Daring Disney Pals at Circus Stars at Pete's Silly Slideshow
Meet Dashing Disney Pals at Circus Stars at Pete's Silly Sideshow
Meet Mickey at Town Square Theater
Meet Mirabel at Fairytale Garden
Meet Winnie the Pooh and Tigger at The Thotful Spot

Guests can meet the following characters at Hollywood Studios:

Meet Ariel at Walt Disney Presents
Meet Disney Junior Pals in Animation Courtyard
Meet Disney Stars (Mickey and Minnie) at Red Carpet Dreams
Meet Edna Mode at the Edna Mode Experiences
Meet Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight
Meet Pixar Pals at Pixar Plaza
Meet the Toys in Toy Story Land
Meet BB-8, Darth Vader, and Chewbacca at Star Wars Launch Bay

Guests can meet the following characters at Animal Kingdom:

Meet Favorite Disney Pal at Adventures Outpost (Mickey and Minnie dressed up in Safari costumes)
Meet Moana at Character Landing
Roaming characters- DiVine and Kevin from UP!
Boat Cavalcades with various characters such as Russell and Dug from UP!, Pocahontas, Meeko, Launchpad McQuack, and Scrooge

Guests can meet the following characters at EPCOT:

Meet a Friend from the Hundred Acre Wood (Winnie the Pooh) in the United Kingdom
Meet Alice in the United Kingdom
Meet Anna and Elsa at Royal Sommerhus
Meet Belle in France
Meet Disney Friends near EPCOT Main Entrance
Meet Donald in Mexico
Meet Favorite Disney Pals at Disney and Pixar Film Festival
Meet Joy and Figment inside ImageWorks
Meet Mulan in China
Meet Princess Aurora in France
Meet Princess Jasmine in Morocco
Meet Snow White in Germany

Disney World vs. Disney Cruise – Excursions and Recreational Activities

Disney cruises offer lots of fun activities both on and off the ship. Notably, there are many types of adventures families can enjoy called Port Adventures , which are on shore excursions that have been specially selected by Disney Cruise Line. No matter where your cruise ship takes you, you are sure to find an amazing excursion for the family. These excursions include private adventures, culinary adventures, and location-specific adventures such as horseback riding, ziplining, or wildlife expeditions. Although a lot of these adventures cost additional money, it is an awesome way to make your Disney cruise more enjoyable.

Although most of Disney World is focused on the incredible theme parks, there are a ton of other recreational activities for guests, especially seen throughout some of the Disney World resorts. A lot of these activities are even free , and include some of our favorite activities to enjoy at Disney World.

Overall, the unique excursions on Disney cruises win this category due to the unique locations that each cruise takes their guests. From Castaway Cay at Disney's private island, to unique experiences in Alaska, New Zealand, Hawaii, and Europe.

Disney World vs. Disney Cruise – Overall Atmosphere

As you can see so far, the biggest differences between Disney World and Disney cruises are the overall size and unique experiences. Disney World theme parks are unlike most theme parks in the entire world. There just isn't a way to match the world class rides and attractions, dining, and entertainment. It is rare to find someone who doesn't find at least one thing to enjoy during a day at Disney World.

Although the parks are a great way to spend a vacation, the biggest downside is the logistics. For many, Disney World is almost too big to enjoy. There are no hotels that are within walking distance to each park, making transportation inconvenient for most hotel guests. Guests must almost always take a bus, boat, Skyliner, monorail, car, or Uber in order to visit each park. Additionally, many guests walk at least 20,000 steps per day in order to experience each park as to offer. Many joke that you need another vacation after they return from their Disney World vacation.

Therefore, if you are looking for a more relaxing and stress free vacation, a Disney cruise is probably better in terms of overall atmosphere. Although you don't get to experience the incredible attractions at Disney World theme parks, you will still get a true Disney feel both on ship and on their private island.

Although we think the overall atmosphere is better at Disney World, many will likely disagree since a Disney cruise takes guests to beautiful locations in a stress-free and relaxing environment.

Walt Disney World vs. Disney Cruise – Dining

Similar to experiences, the dining comparisons between Disney World and Disney cruises is difficult to look at side by side. Although Disney World offers over 200 restaurants and lounges, the Disney cruise dining is all inclusive, 24/7, and located steps away from each of their guests' staterooms.

Disney Cruise Dining

The upside to a Disney cruise is that guests have unlimited access to meals, snacks, desserts, and drinks without any added expenses. Disney cruise guests even have 24/7 room service which is rare at any hotel you can find inside or outside of Disney World.

In addition to having food included with your cruise package, Disney does an amazing job with the service of each meal. Especially for families with young children, it is very convenient that servers will take care of your children's meals before you are served your own. This way, by the time the adults' meals are served, the children are already digging into their meal and don't need additional help from their parents. This type of service proves why Disney service is top notch especially compared to other cruise lines.

Disney World Dining

The obvious upside to dining at Disney World is that there are hundreds of restaurants and different types of food to choose from each day. Not only are there amazing restaurants within the theme parks, but there are also top tier restaurants at the Disney World resorts as well as Disney Springs.

Overall, although the Disney cruise packages conveniently include meals, snacks, and drinks within their inclusive package, the quality and variety of food at Disney World theme parks is a much better option.

Walt Disney World vs. Disney Cruise – Entertainment

Disney World always has entertainment available throughout each of their theme parks. From street performers, to the Dapper Dan singers, and Broadway-quality shows such as Festival of the Lion King. Some of our favorite shows and entertainment at Disney World include:

The Festival of the Lion King at Animal Kingdom
Happily Ever Fireworks at Magic Kingdom
Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade at Magic Kingdom
Fantasmic! at Hollywood Studios
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration at Hollywood Studios

Despite not having any many shows available, Disney cruises also have amazing Broadway-quality shows for guests to enjoy as they cruise. These shows include:

The Little Mermaid Live Show on the Disney Wish
Live Jazz Music at the Soul Cat Lounge on the Disney Magic
Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure on the Disney Wish
Disney Seas the Adventure on the Disney Wish
Beauty and the Beast Live Show on the Disney Dream

Although our favorite entertainment can be found throughout the Disney World theme parks, the Disney cruise shows are amazing considering the lack of space they have compared to Disney World. These shows give guests another taste of Disney magic and are a great perk to Disney cruises.

Walt Disney World vs. Disney Cruise – Accommodations

Disney World has dozens of incredible resorts for guests to choose from ranging in value, moderate, and deluxe level pricing. Each resort has it's own unique themes and transports guests into the world of Disney. Although there aren't any Disney World resorts we would not recommend, you can check out our favorite Disney World hotels for each visit type here . There are also so many perks associated with staying at Disney World resort, including:

Early Morning Magic Hours which allows resort guests to enter any Disney World theme park 30 minutes early
Extended Evening Hours which allows deluxe resort guests to enjoy extended evening park hours on select days
Free transportation between your resort, Disney's theme and water parks, and Disney Springs

Disney World accommodations are definitely more impressive and enjoyable than the accommodations on Disney Cruise Line ships. However, the staterooms on Disney cruises are some of the best compared to any other cruise ship. Additionally, you have the extreme convenience of being closely located to all of the activities on board the ship. As mentioned previously, logistically it is difficult for guests to travel between their Disney World hotel and each of the four theme parks. Disney Cruise accommodations are much easier to travel between and are still worth the price.

Walt Disney World vs. Disney Cruise – Which is Better?

Now for the biggest question – is a vacation at Walt Disney World or a Disney cruise better? Well, as you can probably tell by now it really is up to personal preference. It's extremely hard to compare both as they offer very different and unique Disney experiences. Both are awesome vacations for families who are lucky enough to take them.

However, we believe as a total vacation for a family, a Disney cruise is the better option for a vacation with the family. Not only are Disney cruises more relaxing, but the excursions and activities for every member of the family cannot be beat. Parents also have the abilities to enjoy many activities on their own without having to worry about their children with the accessibility of the Kids Club. Therefore, although guests won't have access to the best rides and attractions in the world, Disney cruises can be much less stressful and enjoyable for the whole family.

Plan Your Next Disney World or Disney Cruise Vacation

For more information on Disney World and Disney Cruise vacations, be sure to subscribe to our FREE newsletter with the most up-to-date vacation planning information. From dining recommendations to special events at Disney World and other theme parks, we can help take the stress off of planning your next trip. This newsletter also includes exclusive deals and the lowest ticket prices anywhere. Additionally, make sure to check out our other guides related to Disney World vacation planning below:

FREE Things to do at Walt Disney World
Find Discount Walt Disney World Tickets
Walt Disney World Genie+ Guide
How to Find Discounted Disney Gift Cards
Disney World Packing List – Everything You Need to Bring

Frequently Asked Questions

Most people prefer to go on a Disney cruise instead of Disney World. Disney cruises offer more unique experiences that Disney World does not offer, such as both family and adults-only activities, entertainment, fine dining, and more. Most guests also prefer a Disney cruise because of Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, which offers even more activities, relaxation, and entertainment for guests of all ages. Although Disney World has so much to offer, it is not as relaxing as a cruise, and guests of a cruise can still experience a strong Disney theme on board their cruise ships.

On average, the price of a Disney cruise is more expensive than a trip to Disney World. However, it all depends on what type of accommodations and time of year the vacation is taking place. Disney cruises are currently very high in demand, and therefore there are not many discounts guests can use to purchase a cruise package. Disney World has a lot more options to make their trip cost effective, such as staying at a value level resort, or purchasing discount theme park tickets through resellers or using a Florida resident or military discount. However, guests staying at a deluxe level resort and consistently purchasing park hopper tickets, using Genie+, and eating at nicer restaurants may experience high costs than at a Disney cruise.

Yes, Disney cruises are all inclusive. The price of each cruise includes your stateroom, meals and drinks, snacks, and entertainment on the ship at at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. There are several upgrades for purchase such as Wifi, fine dining, and additional recreational activities, however most of what you will need is included in the total price of a Disney cruise.

The cheapest time of year to take a Disney cruise is in September, due to most kids returning to school. Disney World hotels can also be less expensive during this month for the same reason, as Disney often offers discounts on room prices.

No, Disney cruises do not include a visit to Disney World. However, one of the Disney cruise ports is based in Port Canaveral, Florida, which is about an hour away from Disney World. Therefore, many guests book a trip to Disney World separately in addition to their cruise. This is a convenient way to experience both Disney World and a Disney cruise in one trip, especially for guests who are traveling from other states or countries.

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Best Disney Cruises & Cruise Ships Ranking for 2024

A s an aficionado of magical vacations, you're likely curious about the top Disney cruises and cruise ships for 2024. With Disney's renowned attention to detail and service, each ship offers its own unique charm and a myriad of enchanting experiences. Perhaps you're drawn to the Disney Dream 's immersive world or the Broadway-style shows on the Disney Fantasy . Maybe the unique onboard features of the Disney Magic attract you, or the adventures offered on the Disney Wonder . There's also the highly anticipated Disney Wish on the horizon. So, which one will make it to your travel bucket list? Let's find out.

Disney Dream Cruise Review

Stepping aboard the Disney Dream Cruise , you're immediately immersed in a magical world that promises an unforgettable voyage for both kids and adults. As one of the best Disney Cruise Line ships, it boasts sumptuous dining options, spectacular live shows, and round-the-clock room service.

Docking at Port Canaveral , you'll love Disney's Oceaneer Club . Trust the Disney Cruise reviews, your Disney Cruise Line vacation starts here.

Exploring the Disney Fantasy

Moving on from the enchanting Disney Dream, let's set sail and explore the wonders of the Disney Fantasy . Often hailed as the best Disney ship, this gem in the Disney Cruise Line fleet boasts Disney characters , Broadway-style shows, and sumptuous main dining rooms .

Despite the new Disney Wish stealing some limelight as Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Fantasy remains a standout in the Disney Cruise Line experience.

Disney Magic Ship Highlights

Let's explore the highlights of Disney Magic, a 2,713-passenger ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet.

Packed with unique attractions like Broadway-style musical performances , flat-screen TVs, and a table-service restaurant , it's all about the magic of Disney.

And, don't forget Caribbean cruises with excellent service.

Use the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for an even better experience.

Unveiling Disney Wonder

Next on our list is Disney Wonder, one of the new ships in the Disney fleet and a sister to the newest Disney cruise ship.

You'll love the friendly cast and crew members, the rotational dining options , and the Walt Disney Theater .

With Disney Wonder, it's all about the exciting port adventures .

Get ready for a journey you won't forget aboard this amazing Disney ship.

Disney Wish: What to Expect

On the horizon of your next dream vacation, Disney Wish stands proud, promising an unparalleled cruise experience. As one of Disney's new vessels, its maiden voyage will take you through grand hall, hyperspace lounge, and the worlds of marvel.

You'll experience the frozen dining adventure, explore Disney's oceaneer club, revel in adult spaces, and relish themed dining . Disney Wish truly is an enchanting journey waiting for you.

Dining Options on Disney Cruises

After exploring the enchanting features of Disney Wish, you might be wondering about the culinary adventures that await on Disney Cruises .

From Rapunzel's Royal Table to the Royal Palace, Animator's Palate, and even dining options on Disney's private island, Castaway Cay , the best Disney cruises cater to every personal preference.

Disney's Oceaneer Club serves up enchanted classics, ensuring a magical dining experience for all.

Entertainment on Disney Ships

You'll find a world of entertainment on Disney ships. Live music fills the air, while Disney films light up screens on the pool deck.

Join the fun at the Golden Mickeys , or meet Captain America at the kids clubs. Dine amidst Toy Story sketches at Animator's Palate , or explore Disney's Oceaneer Club .

There's never a dull moment aboard, ensuring your cruise is a magical adventure.

Family-friendly Features

With family-friendly features in abundance, Disney cruise ships offer an array of amenities and activities designed to delight every member of your family. Picture setting off on a Disney adventure with young children mesmerized by Disney's Oceaneer Club .

You'll find hot tubs, Animator's Palate , Small World, and movie theaters reminiscent of Walt Disney World.

Luxurious Staterooms Breakdown

Beyond the plethora of activities and amenities for the kids, Disney's cruise ships also boast some of the most luxurious staterooms in the industry.

As a first time cruiser, you'll be blown away by the ocean view from both the classic and additional ships.

Whether dining at Rapunzel's Royal Table or Animator's Palate, the royal Caribbean feel extends beyond Disney's private island and into these sumptuous quarters.

Disney Cruise Line Ports of Call

Disney Cruise Line's ports of call offer a world of enchantment, transporting you to some of the most coveted destinations in the globe.

You'll visit various locations, including Disney's private island, Lighthouse Point , and Fort Lauderdale.

Shore excursions might include a Star Wars experience, dining at Rapunzel's Royal Table and Animator's Palate , or kid's fun at Disney's Oceaneer Club.

Specialty Cruises: Halloween and Christmas

If you're looking to add a festive touch to your voyage, consider Disney's specialty cruises : Halloween and Christmas.

Envision sailing the high seas, celebrating the holidays at Rapunzel's Royal Table or reliving a Cinderella story at the Animator's Palate .

U.S. News insider tip: Disney's private island is a treasure trove of holiday fun in the coming years, especially for kids at Disney's Oceaneer Club.

Unique Disney Cruise Activities

You'll find a plethora of unique activities on a Disney cruise that you won't experience anywhere else. From dining at Rapunzel's Royal Table to virtual sports simulators, your voyage will be packed with fun.

You can join Ariel at the Animator's Palate or play at the Oceaneer Club. Despite sailing away from San Diego, you'll feel secure with Disney's excellent health ratings.

Just wait until you see Disney's private island !

Castaway Cay: Disney's Private Island

Picture stepping off your cruise ship and onto the pristine sands of Castaway Cay, Disney's very own private island. Here's what awaits you:

Serene beaches perfect for sandcastle building.
Adventures at Pelican Point, snorkeling amidst hidden Disney treasures.
Mouthwatering BBQ at Cookie's BBQ.

Isn't it time you felt the magic of Disney sprinkled on a tropical getaway?

Comparing Disney Cruise Ships

Exploring Disney's impressive fleet of cruise ships can be quite a challenging task. Each ship offers a unique blend of magical experiences . But don't fret! Whether you're a fan of the classic Disney Magic or the newer Disney Dream, each ship has its own flair.

You've got to take into account size, amenities, and character-themed experiences . So, buckle up, it's time to delve into the world of Disney cruises!

Booking Tips for 2024 Cruises

Explore the world of planning as we share some invaluable tips for booking your dream Disney cruise in 2024.

Here's how you can snag a great deal:

Book early: The early bird catches the worm, or in this case, the best staterooms!
Look for off-peak dates: You'll find lower prices during these times.
Use a travel agent: They can help you navigate the best deals and discounts.

So, ready to set sail on a magical journey? Whether it's the Disney Dream , Fantasy, Magic, Wonder, or the new Wish, each ship is a treasure trove of fun. Remember to pack your sense of adventure, appetite, and your Mickey ears!

Castaway Cay awaits with its pristine beaches. Booking a 2024 cruise ? Pro tip: start early. After all, you wouldn't want to miss the boat, would you?

Happy cruising!

The post Best Disney Cruises & Cruise Ships Ranking for 2024 appeared first on Sarah Scoop EATS .

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Disney Dream Staterooms

Deluxe family oceanview stateroom, deluxe family oceanview stateroom – accessible, deluxe oceanview stateroom, deluxe oceanview stateroom – accessible.

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Disney Magic Stateroom 8598 Tour
Disney Dream, Disney Cruise Line
Is a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on the Disney Dream Worth
Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on the Disney Dream
Disney Magic
Disney Wish

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Disney Dream Cruise
Disney Dream
Disney Cruise Lines Disney Dream Room 6142 Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
Oceanview vs Balcony- is it worth the price on a cruise👀? #travel #royalcaribbean #libertyoftheseas
Disney Dream
Disney Wonder Category 4b Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Veranda on our way to Alaska Cruise

COMMENTS

Verandah vs. Oceanview?
April 15, 2009. SoCal. #2. Posted November 8, 2017. We are looking at a 5-night Baja-Mexico cruise right now, and we are wondering if we should book Verandah or Oceanview. Cost is definitely a big deciding factor, but on the other side, with two kids, 7 and 2 yr old, I don't know how often we will utilize the Verandah.
Ocean view vs verandah
Aug 22, 2009. Feb 7, 2016. #1. My husband and I are going on our first cruise to celebrate our 25th anniversary on the disney Dream. I currently have room 7020 booked which is an ocean view on the port side. Now rethinking and wandering if I should switch us to a room with a verandah on the starboard side.
The Best Staterooms in Each of the 10 Categories on a Disney Cruise in
Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on the Disney Fantasy. 3. Category 4 - Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah - Category 4 staterooms are the biggest non-concierge staterooms on the ships. The word "Family" in the title means the stateroom is slightly longer and sleeps up to five.
Stateroom Categories: Explained
There are four general stateroom categories: Concierge, Oceanview with Verandah, Oceanview and Inside. Within each category and within each ship, there are different options to choose from. Inside (Categories: 10, 11) ... Oceanview or Verandah*. Disney Cruise Line will assign your specific stateroom at a later time, based on remaining availability.
Why an Oceanview Room is the Perfect Choice for First Time Disney
One of the initial choices to consider when planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation is what kind of stateroom you and your family would like to stay in. Disney Cruise line offers three basic types of room categories (with the added option of concierge): inside, oceanview, and verandah.. An inside stateroom is the smallest, and by extension the most affordable, of the room categories.
Are There Different Verandah Types
A: You can choose from 3 types of stateroom verandahs on a Disney Cruise Line ship: The standard verandah features an open-air balcony skirted by an acrylic wall, allowing for a full view of the horizon even while seated. The whitewall verandah offers open-air lounging with a solid wall from the deck to the railing.
Disney Magic Verandah Staterooms
Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. Boasting even more square footage than a Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom, these spacious quarters let you spread out. ... For assistance with your Disney Cruise, please call (800) 951-3532. Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM Eastern time; Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern ...
Is Disney Cruise Line concierge level worth it?
Disney Cruise Line concierge rooms generally start at the oceanview with verandah level, and they will be clearly labeled as concierge rooms when booking. ... Cay), prices for an interior stateroom start at $1,554 for double occupancy or $2,555 for a family of four. On the same cruise, a non-concierge verandah room starts at $1,950 for two or ...
Why You Should Book a Verandah on a Disney Cruise
A verandah is also a great thing to have access to after a day exploring a port, such as Disney Castaway Cay. You may be in need of a little shade from the sun, but still want to hear the sea waves against the ship, and feel the ocean breeze on your face. Your verandah is also a great place to enjoy the views when leaving port.
What Are Stateroom Categories
Note that there a number of different Verandah styles available. View and compare Oceanview with Verandah staterooms on the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. Oceanview: Beautifully styled, these rooms for 3 to 4 Guests provide a stunning ocean view through the in-room porthole.
Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
Boasting close to 300 square feet of space, these staterooms contain two bathrooms AND extra storage space for guests. Throughout this stateroom review, you'll see pictures of the Disney Magic Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. The concierge level rooms on the other ships have a very similar layout; however, the interior ...
Disney Wish Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah Review
This balcony stateroom is located fairly midship right near a bank of elevators. According to Disney Cruise Line's website, a Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is approximately 284 square feet and sleeps 4 to 5 guests. These cabins include a queen sized bed, an optional upper-berth single pull-down bed, and a single convertible ...
Disney Dream, Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line offers a number of different room types for guests. Join us on a recent voyage aboard the Disney Dream for a tour of this Deluxe Oceanview...
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah Cat 5b Disney Dream
Deluxe Oceanview staterooms with verandahs include a queen-size bed and single convertible sofa. Some offer an upper berth pull-down bed. The cabin features a split bathroom configuration with a sink and shower/tub in one area and a sink and toilet in the other. The stateroom sleeps 3-4 and is 246 square feet, including the verandah.
Disney Dream Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah: Full Walkthrough
There are four different types of staterooms on Disney Cruise Line's Dream ship, including Concierge, Oceanview with Verandah, Oceanview, and Inside. We're taking you inside a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with a Verandah aboard the Disney Dream so you know exactly what to expect before boarding. $ 18.99 - $ 24.99 Select options.
Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah Review
Not really! But it is great for 2 adults and 3 kids. The Disney Fantasy Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is classified as Categories 4A - 4E. They are located in Midship of Decks 6 - 10. Usually the higher the deck, the more you pay. I usually book Deck 8 midships and found it to be a good location.
Disney Magic Stateroom 8598 Tour
During #DCLBlogCruise 2 aboard the Disney Magic, we stayed in stateroom 8598, a Category 4E Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah.In general, the category offers 304 square feet of space, features the popular split bath layout, and sleeps up to 5 guests with additional Murphy bed and drop down bunk.
Disney Cruise Line Staterooms
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. Category 5A-5C, 6A. Stateroom layout provided by Dreams Unlimited Travel. Sleeps: 3 or 4. Size: 268 sq. ft. including verandah. Room: Queen-size bed or 2 twin beds, single convertible sofa, upper berth pull-down bed (if sleeping 4), split bath with tub and shower. View: Private verandah.
Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. Category 4A-B, 4E. Stateroom layout provided by Dreams Unlimited Travel. Sleeps: 5. Size: 304 sq. ft. including verandah. Room: Queen-size bed or 2 twin beds, single convertible sofa, wall pull-down bed and upper berth pull-down bed, split bath with tub and shower. View: Private verandah.
Everything You Need to Know About Traveling on the Disney Dream
There are a variety of room types on the Disney Dream, including concierge rooms, verandah rooms, oceanview staterooms (with one or two porthole windows but no verandah), and inside rooms (that ...
Deluxe Family Oceanview Vs. Deluxe Verandah
The "Family" designation indicates a larger stateroom. I ask because you mention 299 sq ft, which is the category 4 Family verandah size. The regular verandah is 246 sq ft, which is about the same as the family oceanview (cat. 8) at 241 sq ft. I'm not sure what pictures you have seen, but there are a few category 8 staterooms which are more ...
Disney Treasure Verandah Staterooms
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. Step out to your private balcony from the comfort of your serene and spacious stateroom. Read More. For assistance with your Disney Cruise, please call (800) 951-3532. Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM Eastern time; Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern time.
Disney World vs Disney Cruise
If you wanted an oceanview stateroom, the cost would increase to $7,150, which isn't a horrible upcharge for a better view. The next best room, the Verandah, ... Disney World vs. Disney Cruise - Excursions and Recreational Activities.
I've stayed in 3 types of rooms on cruises, and the cheapest was never
Their exact size and capacity range from ship to ship, but Disney Fantasy's ocean-view staterooms are 204 square feet, and Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas' version is 179 square feet.
Best Disney Cruises & Cruise Ships Ranking for 2024
A s an aficionado of magical vacations, you're likely curious about the top Disney cruises and cruise ships for 2024. With Disney's renowned attention to detail and service, each ship offers its ...
Disney Dream Oceanview Staterooms
Learn about Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom design features and amenities on the Disney Dream cruise ship, like split bathrooms and real porthole windows. ... Oceanview; Verandah; ... For assistance with your Disney Cruise, please call (800) 951-3532. Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM Eastern time; Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM to 8: ...

Verandah vs. Oceanview?

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