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Everything You Need To Know About Halloween On The High Seas – Disney Cruise Line

This article is your complete guide to Disney Cruise Line’s H alloween on the High Seas  specialty cruises! During the Halloween season, Disney is known for going all out. From specialty park celebrations like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party in Disney World, to original content on Disney+. And the Disney Cruise Line is not immune to the celebration! Beginning in early September through Halloween, you can embark on special Halloween-themed cruises on all of the ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. This Disney Halloween cruise is known as Halloween on the High Seas and is full of spell-binding enhancements to the ship!

We hope you find this post helpful! And if you are planning a trip on a Disney cruise, be sure to check out our other FREE vacation planning tools. Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time on your next vacation and find the best deals on Disney cruises!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Disney World check out our Disney Crowd calendar!

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A Complete Guide on the Disney Halloween Cruise 

When sailing on a Disney ship, you are surrounded by the magic of Disney. From themed rooms and restaurants to specialty characters and even fireworks at sea! But something that makes sailing on a Disney ship even more unique is the themed cruises they offer! Guests can enjoy a Halloween on the High Seas , Very Merrytime Cruises, Pixar Day at Sea, Star Wars Day at Sea, and Marvel Day at Sea cruise. My very first Disney cruise was a Disney Halloween cruise  back in 2019! And as a former Cast Member and as someone who loves cheap tickets to Walt Disney World , it was the most magical vacation I’ve ever had. Below are some of my experiences on the Halloween Disney cruise , along with information to help you discover if a Halloween on the High Seas cruise is right for you!

What is Halloween on the High Seas?

• Halloween on the High Seas is a Disney Cruise Line exclusive Halloween-themed sailing. Setting sail in mid-September through October, this season of extra-special sailings will bring the fun of Halloween to guests on select cruises across the entire DCL fleet. Guests can dress up in their Halloween costumes and join Disney characters in theirs! You can also find dance parties throughout the ships; enjoy a variety of themed food and beverages; and immerse yourself in a ghostly ship takeover with elaborate décor and the magical Pumpkin Tree!

When looking closer at the specially themed cruises, Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime cruises are the only savings that completely change the cruise experience. The other special Days at Sea are just that, Days at Sea. So your entire cruise will not be themed around the day, it will just be one day of the sailing that will be a special theme.

Related Post: When is the Cheapest Time to Go on a Disney Cruise?

When is the Halloween on the High Seas Cruise Dates?

Now that we know what  D isney Halloween on the High Seas is, we can start to uncover more specifics on this spooktacular sailing! The Disney cruise Halloween on the High Seas sail dates are September 9th – October 31st, 2024. When booking a Disney Cruise , one of the first things you should look at is the sailing calendar. This will help determine where you’re sailing from, sailing to, and on what ship you’ll be sailing on. This is also where you can see if your vacation will line up with any specialty cruises!

What are Halloween on the High Seas Sail Dates?

• 2024 : September 9th – October 31st

Halloween Disney Cruise Ships 2024

Disney Magic:

• Sail Dates : September 13, 2024 – November 5, 2024
• Sailing From : Miami & San Diego
• Ports of Call : Nassau Bahamas, Disney Castaway Cay , Lighthouse Point, George Town Grand Cayman, Ensenada Mexico, Cabo San Lucas Mexico, & Cozumel Mexico

Disney Dream:

• Sail Dates :
• Sailing From  New York
• Ports of Call : King’s Wharf Bermuda, Saint John (New Brunswick) Canada,

Halloween on the Disney Fantasy:

• Sail Dates : September 14, 2024 – November 2, 2024
• Sailing From  Port Canaveral
• Ports of Call : Nassau Bahamas, Disney Castaway Cay,  Lighthouse Point , George Town Grand Cayman, Falmouth Jamaica, Cozumel Mexico, Tortola British Virgin Islands, St. Thomas U.S. Virgin Islands, Philipsburg St. Maarten, & San Juan Puerto Rico

Disney Wish:

• Sail Dates : September 13, 2024 – November 1, 2024
• Ports of Call : Nassau Bahamas, Disney Castaway Cay

Related Post: Discounted Disney Cruise Line Staterooms

How is a Halloween on the High Seas Cruise Different? – Activities on Board a Disney Halloween Cruise

The main way the  D isney Halloween cruises are different from non-themed cruises is that the entire ship receives an overhaul to fit with the theme. The only times of the year this happens are on Halloween for Halloween on the High Seas and at Christmas time for the Very Merrytime Cruises . All other sailings throughout the year will have no special theme which allows guests to take in the sheer beauty of the Disney fleet! And when I say complete overhaul for these special cruises, I mean it! Along with pumpkins, bats, and spider decorations, the ships also offer themed activities and specialty characters in Halloween-themed costumes! All of these enhancements are done on every ship that offers the event. Even the Disney Dream Halloween cruise.

What Activities Are on Disney’s Halloween on the High Seas Cruise?

• Mickey’s Mouse-charade – Shiver in delight during a scare-a-brain with some of your favorite Disney Pals bedecked in their Halloween finest. Do your ghoulish best and join in the fun!
• Awakening the Pumpkin Tree  – The centerpiece of H alloween on the High Seas Disney cruise . This tree is located in the main atrium and serves as the opening act for the entire Halloween on the High Seas celebration!
• Spine-Tingling Treats  – Enjoy unique Halloween-themed desserts, beverages and trick-or-treating!
• Movie Screenings – Watch all of your favorite Disney Halloween movies in the ship’s theaters or on the funnel vision display throughout your cruise. You can also catch world premiers of new Disney Halloween movies if you’re lucky!
• Friendly Ghost Stories – Guests can enjoy Haunted Stories of the Sea, told beneath the stars by a mysterious sea captain, and The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing and Scream, an interactive movie singalong.
• Adults-Only Halloween Dance Party – On the same night as the Mouse-masquerade dance party, adults have their dance party in the adult-only section of the ship! Come dressed to impress because you might run into some infamous Disney villains while you dance the night away.

Spooktacular Halloween Decorations Throughout the Ship

The ship is decorated from Bow to the Stern in garlands of autumn leaves, character-inspired pumpkins, and adorable jack-o-lantern stickers on portholes. Each ship gets a full H alloween Disney cruise  makeover with tons of beautiful touches that are sure to put you in the Halloween spirit !

Specialty Character Sightings and Unique Character Costumes

You can catch Micky, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, Daisy, and Pluto, along with Chip & Dale dressed up in their Halloween Best! In recent years Disney Cruise Line has gotten creative with the character costumes garnishing some much-deserved attention. In 2022, it was announced that Minnie, Daisy, and Clarabelle were going to dress in costume as the three Sanderson Sisters from the Disney cult classic, Hocus Pocus. This created so much buzz that the trio was also introduced to land lovers at Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash.

Related Post: Disney Cruise Cost Per Person 

What is the Cost of Halloween at the High Seas vs. a Typical Disney Cruise?

With all of the extra activities and perks of H alloween on the High Seas itinerary , you’re probably wondering if it’s more expensive than a normal sailing. And while themed cruises can be slightly more expensive in terms of cost, it depends on other factors of your cruise. When it comes to Disney Cruise Line, the factors that determine the price of your cruise are your sale date, ports of call, and occupancy. So it could work out that your  H alloween on the High Seas  sailing could be just as much or a little less than a normal sailing. Not so favorably, spooky season coincides with Hurricane Season. This is typically the time cruises are less booked and you can find a cheaper price.

What Disney Cruise Ships have Halloween on the High Seas?

Almost every ship in the Disney fleet has a H alloween on the High Seas itinerary . The only ship that doesn’t partake in the celebration is the Disney Wonder. This is because, during this time of the year, the ship is setting sail from different ports around Australia.

Related Post: What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship? 

Packing and Experience Tips & Tricks for a Disney Halloween Cruise

Knowing what to pack for a cruise is an essential part of going on one. Not only will you need your typical vacation items, but you’ll also need things like your passport, cash, a waterproof lanyard, and other items specific to a cruise. Now add in going on a H alloween Disney cruise  on top of that, and your list can get pretty long! Now we aren’t saying you need to bring an additional suitcase, but one must have in your suitcase for your  D isney Halloween cruise  is your costume!

Pack your Halloween Costume

Nothing screams Halloween like dressing up in a costume. And that’s no different on the Disney Cruise Line! Guests are encouraged to wear costumes to Halloween events throughout the sailing. If you’re wondering or concerned about a specific costume, you can find the DCL Costume Guide here . If you don’t have room in your bag for two costumes, don’t worry! There will still be a Pirate Night on H alloween on the High Seas  sailings. You can wear your pirate garb for both events!

Decorate your Stateroom Door with Halloween Themed Magnets

It is tradition to decorate your stateroom door for any Disney Cruise. However, with a D isney Halloween cruise , you can find doors decorated even more than normal! I have three words for you, go all out. If you think you’re doing too much, I promise you you’re not. There are even Facebook groups for individual sailings where you can connect with guests on your cruise to discuss door decor! Make sure to use magnets or bring them for your decorations as the stateroom doors are made of metal.

Related Post: Discounted Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tickets

Disney Cruise Line’s Halloween on the High Seas FAQ

Q: Which Disney Ships have Halloween?

A: Almost every ship in the Disney fleet has a H alloween on the High Seas itinerary . You can set sail for Halloween on the Magic, Fantasy, Dream, and Wish. The only ship that doesn’t partake in the celebration is the Disney Wonder.

Q: Why doesn’t the Disney Wonder have Halloween on the High Seas?

A: During the Halloween season, Disney Wonder’s new global position is in Australia. September and October are the months this ship sets sail on the newest destinations in the Southern Hemisphere.

Q: Is Halloween on the High Seas Worth it?

A: This is completely up to you and based on individual vacation needs. But in my experience, it is completely worth it! The Disney Cruise Line fleet is beautiful and each ship is unique. There is nothing like having that beauty transformed for a special holiday. If your schedule allows for it, we highly recommend you try a Disney Halloween cruise .

Q: Do Halloween Cruises still have Pirate Night?

A: Yes! Every cruise will still have a Pirate Night regardless of its theme. On shorter sailings, Pirate Night can sometimes be held on the same night as another main event. For example, short Halloween sailings will take place on the same night as the main Halloween Mouse-quarade event.

When is The Best Time to Visit Disney World?

Our  Disney  World Crowd Calendar   is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices, and average temperature. We also break down   the best time to visit Disney World   based on specific times of the year and special events.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Disney World Trip?

Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Be sure to speak with a   Disney World Travel Agent   for the most recent deals and promotions. The Park Prodigy will provide a  Free Quote   for all   Disney World Vacation Packages .  The Park Prodigy can also help you save up to $20 per ticket when purchasing your   Walt Disney World Tickets ,  and we offer promotional discounts for special events such as   Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Tickets   and  Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets .

Don’t forget to check out our wonderful friends over at  Theme Park Today ,  as well!

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Kurt Gillman

Kurt is a former Disneyland Cast Member and seasoned explorer and is your trusted guide to the world of theme park travel. With countless visits to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Tokyo Disneyland, and even aboard the Disney Cruise Line, Kurt's expertise and passion make him the perfect companion for your enchanting adventures. As the Multi-Media Manager, Content Creator and Writer for The Park Prodigy, Kurt hopes his experience and knowledge of the theme park industry can not only save people money, but give them the stress free vacation of their dreams. If he isn’t found trying the newest treats in Disneyland, Kurt enjoys relaxing at home with his dog Sam and playing video games with friends in his free time.

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All About Halloween On The High Seas – Disney Cruise Line

A Disney cruise is amazing any time of year, but especially during spooky season. In September and October, guests can set sail for Halloween at the High Seas, a special themed cruise featuring everything from Disney characters in costume and trick-or-treating to autumn-inspired arts & crafts and an adults-only party guest-starring the Disney Villains.  

But what else does this frightfully fun cruise have in store, and is it worth it for your next family vacation? We booked a stateroom on the Disney Dream to find out. Put on your bewitching best and read on as we dig into all the treats a Disney Halloween cruise has to offer, as well as a few tricks to help you make the most of it.

Celebrating Halloween on the High Seas

So, which Disney cruise ship has Halloween on the High Seas? Where does a Halloween Disney cruise go? When do Disney Cruise Line Halloween festivities begin? Here are all the devilish details. 

Disney Cruise Ships With Halloween on the High Seas

While we got into the spooky spirit on the Disney Dream, every Disney cruise ship takes part in Halloween on the High Seas, even the all-new Disney Wish. Each ship has its own scream-worthy setting especially for the season, including a unique Pumpkin Tree that serves as the centerpiece of the festivities.  

Departure Ports & Destinations Visited on a Halloween on the High Seas Cruise

Think of Halloween on the High Seas more like a costume for your Disney cruise ship than a completely themed cruise. In other words, don’t expect a stop in Salem, Massachusetts, port adventures like ghost tours or a pop-up haunted house on Castaway Cay. 

Rather, Disney Halloween cruises depart from several of the same ports as regular Disney Cruise Line sailings, including Port Canaveral and Miami in Florida, San Diego in California, and New York City. Halloween on the High Seas cruises also visit many of Disney Cruise Line’s most popular destinations, from fair-weathered voyages to Bermuda, the Bahamas, Mexico, and the Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean or through the Panama Canal to cold-weather cruises to Canada.

Cost of Halloween at the High Seas vs. a Typical Disney Cruise

You might be wondering if Halloween on the High Seas is more expensive than a typical Disney cruise. That depends on a few factors. While many themed Disney cruises can cost a little more than normal, factors like where you are sailing or which ship you are on can actually earn you a deal. 

With sailings departing in September and October, many of Disney’s Halloween on the High Seas cruises go to the Caribbean, where spooky season sadly coincides with hurricane season, in search of warmer weather. Fortunately, as long as you can get past the overall uncertainty that comes with cruising during this occasionally treacherous time, you can sail away with quite a savings . 

You may also notice that certain Disney cruise ships or ports are more in demand than others. As a result, Disney Cruise Line may drop the price for less popular departures, including Halloween on the High Seas sailings. So, you could save a buck or two if you are more flexible on the itinerary.  

Halloween on the High Seas Sail Dates 

Disney Cruise Line Halloween sailings start in mid-September and continue through the end of October, with the last cruises departing on October 31. Itineraries are offered from several different departure ports to a variety of popular destinations, from short 3-night jaunts to longer 5-night tours. 

Why Do a Disney Cruise, Halloween Style

A Disney Halloween on the High Seas cruise is as jam-packed with fun as a trick-or-treat bag bursting with candy. Once onboard, you’ll find enough autumn-inspired activities and enchanting events to keep you up long into the night – both from the Halloween candy sugar rush you’re sure to get and the sheer number of things that is available to do. 

Fang-tastic Halloween Decorations

One of the most charming parts about Halloween on the High Seas is the magical décor. From fiery garlands of autumn leaves to character-inspired pumpkins to adorable jack-o-lantern stickers on the ship’s massive portholes, each ship gets decked out with tons of boo-tiful touches that are sure to put you in the Halloween spirit. 

The highlight of these All Hallows’ Eve decorations, however, is each ship’s signature Pumpkin Tree. Designed to have its own unique face, personality and even name (the one on the Disney Dream is named Grim, while those on the Fantasy, Wonder and Magic are respectively called Mucklebones, Bog and Reap), the Pumpkin Trees are said to keep the spirit of Halloween.

With the introduction of the Disney Wish, this quartet of terrifying trees also got a sister. Named Boo, this elegant Pumpkin Tree has willowy branches heavy with glittering jack-o-lanterns, lighter bark and a graceful face, and once grew the fated gourd that would carry Cinderella to the ball. 

Tricks, Treats & Enchanted Entertainment

Halloween on the High Seas means all sorts of spirited special events, along with the many typical activities that are available on a regular Disney cruise. Cruising with Disney during spooky season can even mean double the fun, as many of these spine-tingling sailings also include the ever-popular Pirate Night in their itinerary. 

When you aren’t showing off your trivia skills, sunbathing by the pool or channeling your inner swashbuckler, here are the many haunted happenings you can enjoy during Halloween on the High Seas with Disney.

Awakening the Pumpkin Tree

The Pumpkin Tree on each Disney cruise ship is so much more than just an elaborate centerpiece. It also serves as the opening act for the entire Halloween on the High Seas celebration. On the first night, you’ll be treated to storytime by the tree’s caretaker, who tells the tale of the Pumpkin Tree. 

Then, it’s time to light the tree’s jack-o-lanterns, which continue to glow for the rest of the trip, making for a can’t-miss photo backdrop. This dazzling display sets the tone for the rest of the cruise’s Halloween festivities and shouldn’t be missed. 

Mickey’s Mouse-querade

It wouldn’t be Halloween with Disney without a costume party. Mickey’s Mouse-querade is a spooktacular scare-a-bration starring much-loved Disney characters in full Halloween costumes. If you’d rather not do meet-and-greets, this can be a great way to see your favorite characters show off their frightful finest without spending a ton of time waiting around in line. 

Equally as fun is seeing the many creative costumes donned by your fellow cruise guests. From jack-o-lantern t-shirts to clever DisneyBounding takes to extravagant group costumes, you’ll see it all. Make sure to wear your own costume and join the mouse-querade.

Halloween-Themed Disney Character Meet-and-Greets

Disney characters do meet-and-greets throughout your cruise and could even change outfits each time they appear. While it is possible to see your favorites in their bone-chilling best at other points during the cruise, the main time characters will wear their Halloween costumes is on the night of Mickey’s Mouse-querade. 

For character chasers, these meet-and-greets are a must. Thankfully, with the exception of characters like Minnie, Daisy and Clarabelle as the Sanderson Sisters of Hocus Pocus fame and The Nightmare Before Christmas ’s Jack and Sally, to a slightly lesser extent, meet-and-greet lines typically aren’t that long. That said, for these more popular characters, you may want to jump in line early or risk missing out if the line gets cut. 

Those dressing up like or who share a costume with a particular character definitely won’t want to give these meet-and-greets a miss. For our cruise, my sister, sister-in-law and I DisneyBounded as the Sanderson Sisters, so we made it a point to meet Minnie, Daisy and Clarabelle during their very first appearance. Without a doubt, the pantomimed conversations we had over our shared costumes were some of the most magical moments of our cruise. 

Spookalicious Sweet Treats and Other Festive Eats

No Halloween is complete without some trick-or-treating, and the same goes for Disney’s Halloween on the High Seas. On the Disney Dream, crew members passed out generous handfuls of the good stuff along a makeshift trick-or-treat trail through Cabanas. And don’t worry about needing to pack your own bag to store your stash – trick-or-treat bags are left in your stateroom earlier that day. 

But, those aren’t the only Halloween eats on offer during this cursed cruise. For dinner in the main dining rooms on the night of Mickey’s Mouse-querade, your table will even tuck into some Chocolate Spider Cake (don’t worry, it isn’t actually made of cocoa-y arachnids). 

Your cruise ship’s culinary team also cooks up a buffet of bewitching bites all cruise long. Spine-chilling sweets like cookies, cupcakes, meringues and more (hello, pumpkin spice!) are on offer at the ship’s casual buffet restaurant, certain lounges and the onboard sweetshop. Just keep an eye out for the special Halloween signs. 

Haunted Hands-On Activities

One of the best parts of Halloween is getting your hands dirty making jack-o-lanterns. In the spirit of this Halloween tradition, cruisers can also try their hand at a number of autumn-inspired activities. 

From creepy cooking demonstrations to arts & crafts to terrifying trivia, there’s something spooky to do for everyone. Little cruisers can even enjoy extra-special Halloween arts and crafts activities especially for them, such as face painting and pumpkin carving.

Spine-tingling Ghost Stories and Movie Screenings 

Does your family love a good ghost story? Or perhaps you can’t celebrate Halloween without watching the latest frightful flick? Well, you’re in luck. 

Along with showings of favorite Disney Halloween movies on the Funnel Vision screen – Hocus Pocus 2 had just premiered during our cruise and played multiple times during our trip – guests can also enjoy Haunted Stories of the Sea, told beneath the stars by a mysterious sea captain, and The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing and Scream, an interactive movie singalong. 

Exclusive Halloween on the High Seas Merchandise

Disney never misses out on a merchandising opportunity, Halloween on the High Seas included. In addition to regular Disney Cruise Line souvenirs, cruisers also have access to special Halloween-themed items created especially for the event, including apparel, pins, mugs and more. 

As a result, scary swag can be quite the hot ticket, and it isn’t unheard of for things to sell out before the cruise is through. So, if you see something you like, buy it sooner rather than later or risk missing out. 

Halloween Isn’t Just for Kids

Just like Disney Cruise Line isn’t only for families, you don’t need to be a kiddo to get into the spooky spirit during Halloween at the High Seas. On the night of Mickey’s Mouse-querade, the Disney Villains run amuck in the adults-only part of the ship during a ghoulishly grown-up Halloween party. 

Sadly, don’t expect them to hang around too long. After all, they’ve got places to be and people to terrorize. Still, their steamy dance appearance is sure to cast a spell. With the villains out of the way, it’s time for a comical (and highly competitive) costume party followed by music and dancing. 

On the Disney Dream, this was a silent dance party, which, if you’ve never experienced one before, is both weird and hilarious. Most people weren’t into it and, besides a few lurkers laughing at folks on the floor dancing like no one was watching, the place cleared out pretty quickly after the last award was announced. Still, the costume contest was a ton of fun. 

Packing Tips & Experience Tricks for a Spook-tacular Disney Halloween Cruise  

Hoping to make the most of your Halloween on the High Seas experience? These suggestions are sure to take your cruise from ordinary to hex-traordinary. 

Don’t Forget Your Costume

Dressing up in costume is a Halloween tradition for a reason – it’s undeniably fun! While you don’t need to don anything too extravagant (even a Halloween t-shirt or creative DisneyBound will do), getting in costume will help put you in the appropriate spirit. If you’re anything like us, you’ll also love seeing everyone else on the cruise in their frightening finery. 

Worried that you won’t have enough room in your suitcase for two costumes? Just double up and don your pirate attire twice – you’ll save space without having to skip out on the fun. Consider swapping out your swashbuckling accessories or trading with cabinmates to keep your costume feeling fresh. Just be sure that you follow the rules. Certain types of masks are prohibited, as are some prop weapons.

Give Your Door a Pixie-dusted Halloween Makeover 

Expert Disney cruisers decorate their stateroom doors. Not only does this make it easier to pick your room out of the lineup of generic doors, but the extra pixie dust is sure to put a smile on your face each time you return “home.” 

Stateroom doors are metal, so we recommend using magnets to create your décor. DIY your own or buy some premade off of Etsy – go for a Halloween theme or a general Disney design. If you forget to plan ahead, you might even be able to find some in one of the ship’s onboard gift shops. 

Dress Up Your Stateroom with Spell-binding Décor 

Don’t confine the Halloween vibes to your stateroom door. For the ultimate spine-chilling experience, consider decorating inside your room, too. If you don’t mind having to set it up, BYOD (bring your own decorations) and save some cash. Or, splurge and arrange to have Disney decorate your room for you. Sure, it’s expensive. But, the surprise of walking into your scream-worthy room for the very first time will be worth it. 

Commemorate Your Disney Halloween Cruise with Plenty of Pictures

You’ll find no shortage of photo opportunities on a Disney cruise. And with everyone all dressed up for Halloween with nowhere to go except around the ship, it’s the perfect time to strike a pose. 

Use the scream-worthy decorations as a festive photo backdrop, snap a pic alongside your favorite Disney characters in their Halloween best or take advantage of the ship’s dedicated photoshoot spots. Manned by professional photographers, these mini-photo studios boast bewitching backgrounds and monstrously fun Magic Shots for the cruise’s official Halloween party night. 

Refer to the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App for Daily Halloween Happenings 

There’s so much going on during your Halloween Disney cruise that it can be tricky to keep it all straight. To make things easy, take advantage of the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. Similar to My Disney Experience or the Disneyland app , the Navigator lists out the various activities that are available and lets you bookmark anything that sounds appealing. Then, simply wait for the reminder around 15 minutes before the event starts. 

Well, that wraps up our guide to Halloween on the High Seas with Disney Cruise Line. Have you been on a Disney Halloween cruise? What is your favorite part of this spirited sailing? Let us know in the comments! Then, learn how to save on your next Disney cruise.  

Halloween on the High Seas Returning to Disney Cruise Line

by Morgan Flaherty | Apr 20, 2023 | Disney Cruise Line

Halloween on the High Seas will be returning to Disney Cruise Line later in 2023 with exciting decorations and characters on themed sailings!

Disney has been celebrating Halfway to Halloween all week with exciting updates and announcements. In the parks this week, you can pick up specially themed treats to celebrate halfway to the spooky season. And today, we got the news that Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will return to Magic Kingdom, along with Oogie Boogie Bash in Disneyland. And if you’re planning on taking a Disney Cruise later this year, you’ll be happy to hear that Halloween on the High Seas will be returning to Disney Cruise Line!

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Photo Courtesy of Disney Parks Blog.

Halloween on the High Seas are specially themed Halloween sailings that are available fleet-wide for Disney Cruise Line. This year, Halloween on the High Seas will return to Disney Cruises in September, with specially themed costumes for characters and fun decorations. Last year, the sailings included Clarabelle, Minnie, and Daisy dressing as the Sanderson sisters from  Hocus Pocus , as well as other characters getting in on the Halloween fun! The Halloween on the High Seas cruises also include special activities such as trick or treating, parties for families, Halloween crafts, specialty food, and Halloween-themed movies.

Halloween on the High Seas 2023 Dates

Halloween on the High Seas will be available on the following dates:

Disney Fantasy Halloween Cruises from Port Canaveral

• September 17 – 23, 2023
• September 23 – 30, 2023
• September 30 – October 7, 2023
• October 7 – 14, 2023
• October 14 – 21, 2023
• October 21 – 28, 2023
• October 28 – November 4, 2023

Disney Wish Halloween Cruises from Port Canaveral

• September 15 – 18, 2023
• September 18 – 22, 2023
• September 22 – 25, 2023
• September 25 – 29, 2023
• September 29 – October 2, 2023
• October 2 – 6, 2023
• October 6 – 9, 2023
• October 9 – 13, 2023
• October 13 – 16, 2023
• October 16 – 20, 2023
• October 20 – 23, 2023
• October 23 – 27, 2023
• October 27 – 30, 2023
• October 30 – November 3, 2023

Disney Magic Halloween Cruises from Miami

• September 11 – 15, 2023
• September 25 – 30, 2023
• September 30 – October 5, 2023
• October 5 – 19, 2023

Disney Dream Halloween Cruises from New York

• October 3 – 7, 2023
• October 7 – 13, 2023
• October 13 – 17, 2023
• October 17 – 21, 2023
• October 21 – 27, 2023
• October 27 – 31, 2023
• October 31 – November 4, 2023

Disney Magic Halloween Cruises from San Diego

• October 19 – 22, 2023
• October 22 – 26, 2023
• October 26 – 29, 2023
• October 29 – November 2, 2023

You can read all about the past Halloween on the High Seas in our complete guide below! And you can search through all the dates and availability on the Disney Cruise Line website .

Halloween on the High Seas: Disney Halloween Cruises 2022

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Disney Cruise Line Introduces Spellbinding New Experiences for Halloween on the High Seas

by Melanie Hager , Public Relations Manager, Disney Cruise Line

It’s all just a bunch of Hocus Pocus! At least, it will be this fall when a character meet and greet inspired by Halloween’s favorite sisters and other new experiences debut on  Disney Cruise Line’s Halloween on the High Seas  sailings! 

This September and October, guests will run amuck (amuck! amuck!) on Halloween-themed cruises with special entertainment and activities, including trick-or-treating, spooky parties, elaborate décor and limited-time food and beverage items. 

But the fun doesn’t stop there! These voyages will also debut a new character meet and greet opportunity for Disney Cruise Line guests. While all characters on board will adorn Halloween costumes as part of the festivities, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck and Clarabelle Cow will dress up as the iconic Halloween sisters, the Sandersons from the movie “Hocus Pocus.”

During its inaugural season of Halloween cruises this fall, the Disney Wish, the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, will also introduce a unique twist on a Halloween on the High Seas hallmark.

The centerpiece of every ship during Halloween sailings is the signature magical Pumpkin Tree towering over the atrium lobby, each with sprouting Jack-O-Lanterns and flickering lights.

Aboard the Disney Wish, guests will witness the debut of an all-new tree in the “Cinderella”-inspired Grand Hall.

Featuring lighter bark, graceful branches and a mystical face, legend has it that this enchanted tree (named Boo) grew beautiful gourds with the help of a wishing star. The best pumpkin of them all was destined to grant a very special wish … and that moment came when a carriage was needed to send a fair maiden to a royal soiree. In a flash of bibbidi-bobbidi-boo, that perfect pumpkin became the coach that carried Cinderella to the prince’s ball!

In addition to spooky character encounters and enchanted pumpkin trees, other frighteningly fun experiences aboard Halloween on the High Seas sailings include Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party, a fun-filled costume party for families (and your favorite Disney characters); villainous takeovers in the adult-exclusive venues; Halloween-themed movies on Funnel Vision; and even a ghostly take on ship announcements.

Halloween on the High Seas voyages will be offered aboard select sailings in September and October. Departing from ports in Miami and Port Canaveral, Florida, San Diego and New York City, each cruise will take families to fascinating destinations including the Bahamas, Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and Mexico. All sailings from Port Canaveral and Miami will include a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise outfitted for family fun and relaxation and brimming with special Disney touches.

For more on these spellbinding activities, visit disneycruise.com – and start planning your family’s costumes today!

Destinations: Disney Cruise Line

Topics: Halloween at Disney

How many days are the cruise dates for? Sorry I have never been on a cruise before 😅

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Halloween on the High Seas – Disney Cruise Line

Special days at sea and holiday cruises.

• Very Merrytime Cruises
• Marvel Day at Sea

Halloween on the High Seas returns to Disney Cruise Line from mid-September through October 2024. This season of extra-special sailings will bring the fun of Halloween to guests on select cruises across the fleet with a host of added entertainment. Families will dress up and join Disney characters in their Halloween costumes, dance the night away at a spooky celebration on the upper decks, enjoy spinetingling themed food and beverages, and immerse themselves in a ghostly ship takeover with elaborate décor and a magical Pumpkin Tree.

From Port Canaveral, Florida, the Disney Wish will sail three- and four-night Bahamian voyages full of frightful fun. At the same time, the Disney Fantasy will offer these special-themed cruises with lengths varying from four, six, and seven nights. Four- and six-night sailings on board the Disney Fantasy will take families to The Bahamas. At the same time, seven-night escapes will transport guests to fan-favorite destinations throughout The Bahamas and the Caribbean.

The Disney Magic will depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on vacations ranging from three to five nights to tropical destinations in The Bahamas and the Caribbean. Select sailings on Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy will allow families to discover fun and relaxation at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination in The Bahamas. Located on the island of Eleuthera at Lighthouse Point, this vibrant beach retreat will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.

HALLOWEEN ON THE HIGH SEAS CRUISE DATES

Halloween on the high seas activities.

These seasonal cruises include tricks and treats for the entire family! Enjoy entertainment, parties, decorations, themed food, sing-alongs, ghost stories, and a spooky Halloween tree.

Guests of all ages will want to attend Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party ! The atrium will come alive with ghoulish games, trick-or-treating, dancing, and the famous Disney characters in their Halloween costumes.

Disney Cruise Line guests will be the first to experience an all-new character meet and greet opportunity across the fleet during Halloween on the High Seas sailings. While all of the Disney characters onboard will adorn Halloween costumes as part of the festivities, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will debut a never-before-seen look as they dress up as their favorite Halloween sisters, the Sandersons from the movie Hocus Pocus .

Jack Skellington and Sally will greet guests following a special interactive Sing and Scream experience featuring the classic film Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas .

Up on deck, check out the campfire-style Haunted Stories of the Sea , featuring a spooky ghost story or two.

Other fun family activities include mask-making and pumpkin carving.

Finally, proving that Halloween Isn’t Just for Kids , adults will have their party, including a costume contest.

NOTE: While costumes are encouraged, there are NO WEAPONS ALLOWED. If you plan on being a pirate, leave your plastic cutlass at home as no real or fake weapon is permitted.

HALLOWEEN ON THE HIGH SEAS VIDEOS

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Halloween and Christmas on Disney Cruise Line: Here’s What You Need to Know

Disney Cruise Line offers a number of special sailings, with enhancements above and beyond the normal cruise experience. Two of the most popular special sailings are Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime.

Halloween on the High Seas Cruises

Halloween on the High Seas sailings take place on every Disney Cruise Line ship. Halloween-themed cruise typically take place from mid-September until the ship’s sailing that includes October 31. You can search for Halloween sailings by visiting the “Our Ships” tab on the Disney Cruise Line website and scroll down to the “Themed and Holiday Cruises” section.

You can verify that a cruise will be Halloween-themed by looking for the Halloween banners on the sailing listing.

Components of Halloween Cruises include:

• Changes to ship decor. Each ship has version of a “pumpkin tree” that fills much of the lobby atrium. There will often be one night with a ceremony that brings the tree to “life.” Often ship portholes are filled with Jack-O-Lantern faces and the atrium railings are festooned with orange and black bunting.
• Changes to ship music. Instead of standard Disney tunes, you’re likely to hear songs like “Monster Mash” piped into the ship’s public areas.
• Characters. Many of the Disney characters on the ship will appear in costume. (I’m going to pretend you didn’t just think to yourself, “Aren’t they always in costume?”) Some variations occur from year to year, but often Mickey and Minnie are dressed as a wizard and witch, Goofy is often King Tut, Chip & Dale are often comical thieves.
• Onboard activities. Some of the normal onboard craft sessions will have a Halloween twist. For example, a character drawing class will have the character in a Halloween setting. Trivia sessions might include a Halloween trivia game. There might be face painting or temporary tattoos available.
• Guest costumes. Typically one day of the cruise will have a costume party or parade called something like a “Mouse-querade party.” Kids and adults are welcome to dress up, but there are a bunch of rules about acceptable costuming. For example, you’re not allowed to carry anything that looks like a weapon, you can’t dress exactly like a regular character (no Cinderella replicas, for example), and you can’t wear non-medical masks when you’re walking around. Be sure to check the DCL website for specifics. Costumes are absolutely NOT required. If dressing up is not your thing, you don’t have to participate in dress-up activities.
• Trick or Treating. Kids will be invited to visit trick-or-treat stations during one day of the sailing.
• Food and drink. The drink-of-the-day will likely have spooky name and a few of the offerings in Cabanas (or Marceline Market on the Wish) might include pumpkin.
• Movies. The selection of films shown on the Funnelvision screens or in the onboard theaters typically includes Halloween-themed Disney films such as The Nightmare Before Christmas , Halloweentown , or Hocus Pocus .
• Merchandise. There will be some Halloween-themed merchandise for sale in the onboard shops.
• Photo backgrounds. Some of the onboard photo backgrounds will have Halloween themeing.

Very Merrytime Cruises

Fun fact: the word “merrytime” in the Very Merrytime name for DCL’s holiday cruises is a play on the word “Maritime” meaning “connected to the sea.”

Merrytime cruises typically start in mid-November and end with the last sailing of each ship that includes December 25. If you’re on a New Year’s Eve cruise, the Christmas decor will still be up, but it won’t have the Merrytime designation. You can verify that you’re booking a Merrytime cruise by looking for the ornament and light illustrated banner on the listing for your sailing.

Components of Merrytime Cruises include:

• Changes to ship decor. Each ship will have a giant Christmas tree that fills much of the lobby atrium, which will also feature a life-sized gingerbread house. The atrium railings are festooned with faux pine boughs and holiday ornaments. Additional trees will appear in nearly every public corner of the ship – and even on Disney’s private island Castaway Cay.
• Changes to ship music. Instead of standard Disney tunes, you’re likely to hear songs like “Jingle Bells” piped into the ship’s public areas.
• Characters. Many of the Disney characters on the ship will appear in wintery variations of their usual clothes – think cozy scarves and hats. On some sailings, you may have the opportunity to meet Santa.
• Onboard activities. Some of the normal onboard craft sessions will have a Christmas twist. For example, a character drawing class will have the character in a Christmas setting. Trivia sessions might include a Christmas trivia game. There will often be one night with holiday storytelling.
• Stateroom gifts. For sailings that actually include Christmas day, guests will likely receive a small gift in their stateroom such as candy or a print of the ship.
• Food and drink. The drink-of-the-day will likely have festive name and a few of the offerings in Cabanas (or Marceline Market on the Wish) might include red and green embellishments.
• Movies. The selection of films shown on the Funnelvision screens or in the onboard theaters typically includes Christmas-themed Disney films such as Mickey’s Christmas Carol .
• Merchandise. There will be some holiday-themed merchandise for sale in the onboard shops.
• Photo backgrounds. Some of the onboard photo backgrounds will have Christmas themeing.
• Religious observances. The ship will typically hold a midnight mass on Christmas Eve as well as Catholic and non-denominational services on Christmas morning, all in the Walt Disney theater, check your Navigator app for exact times. The ship lobby will have a Jewish menorah and a Kwanzaa Kinara placed somehere and there will be brief lighting events during sailings that include these holidays, but expect that these celebrations will be dwarfed by all things Christmas. If you don’t celebrate Christmas, you’ll have to consider how you’ll feel about the pervasive merriment.

What is the Pricing Like?

There is no specific upcharge for the enhancements on these cruises. With a tiny handful of exceptions, all the holiday perks are included with the price of your cruise. Prices related more to the date of the sailings rather than the holiday overlay. For example, sailings during the first two weeks of December include all the Christmas decor, music, food, and more, but the prices are very reasonable. Rates go up as more children have their holiday school vacations and the cruises that actually include Christmas can be quite pricey.

If you need assistance with deciding whether a holiday sailing on Disney Cruise Line is right for your family, contact one of our specialist travel agents for consultation and free quote.

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Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

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Tag Archives: Halloween on the High Seas

Trip Log Day 3: Disney Wish – 3-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise – Castaway Cay

Trip log, day three. Castaway Cay.3-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida October 15, 2023 Guests Ashore: 8:30 am Guests Onboard: 4:45 pmPersonal Navigator – Day 3 Continue Reading →

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Trip Log Day 2: Disney Wish – 3-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise – Nassau

Trip log, day two. Nassau, Bahamas.3-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida October 14, 2023 Guests Ashore: 9:30 am Guests Onboard: 5:15 pmPersonal Navigator – Day 2 Continue Reading →

Personal Navigators: Disney Magic 4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego – October 29, 2023

Personal Navigators, and other details from the Halloween on the High Seas 4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego. The Disney Magic set sail from San Diego, California on October 29, 2023.  There is an extra Continue Reading →

Personal Navigators: Disney Dream 6-Night Bermuda Cruise from New York – October 21, 2023

Personal Navigators, and other details from the Halloween on the High Seas 6-Night Bermuda Cruise from New York. The Disney Dream set sail from New York on October 21, 2023.  Day 1 – October 21, Continue Reading →

Personal Navigators: Disney Magic 14-Night Westbound Panama Canal Cruise from Miami – October 5, 2023

Personal Navigators, and other details from the Halloween on the High Seas 14-Night Westbound Panama Canal Cruise from Miami. The Disney Magic set sail from Miami, Florida on October 5, 2023. During this cruise, the Continue Reading →

How to Plan a Disney Cruise on a Budget

I f you're looking at your Family Vacation Budget and wondering if you have enough for a Disney Cruise, let's take another look. Is it possible to Plan a Disney Cruise on a Budget? While you may be thinking that a Disney Cruise is an expensive vacation, you may be surprised to realize that this kind of all-inclusive vacation actually may be budget-friendly. Dare we say it's often cheaper than the parks? Here are all the things to consider when planning a Disney Cruise on a Budget and ways you can Save Money on Your Disney Cruise. 

Okay, before we dive into how much a Disney Cruise costs, and what's included and what's not, let's level-set. First, be sure to check out the ways you can Save Money on a Disney Cruise . That post gives you tips about buying discounted gift cards ( automatically saving you 5%), choosing the best rooms, and booking during special offers. Remember, that, unlike other vacations, Disney Cruises are often the cheapest when booked a year or more in advance. Blame it on inflation, but Disney Cruises rarely get cheaper closer to the sail date. It's helpful to know that there are options for getting your final cost down once you see what you're paying for. So, how do you Plan a Disney Cruise on a Budget?

Disney Cruise Budget

A Disney Cruise Budget includes the following line items. From the basic Disney Cruise Vacation Package itself to all the EXTRA things you can pay for, if you want. Know that everything in addition to the package is up to you. You can easily explore port towns without booking cruise excursions . And you can easily get coffee from the drinks stations or at the restaurants. You don't need to spend the extra 6 dollars a day for that. So, keep that in mind. A Disney Cruise without all the extras is still a pretty great cruise if you're on a tight budget. 

Disney Cruise Vacation Package

• Specialty Drinks
• Port Excursions
• Specialty Classes
• Nursery Childcare Services
• Specialty Dining
• Specialty Services
• Tips on a Disney Cruise
• Transportation
• Tips for Tour Guides at Port

Paid ahead of time, your Disney Cruise Vacation Package includes the bulk of everything you need to pay for on your cruise. For those NOT doing excursions at the port, drinking fancy coffees, or alcoholic drinks, utilizing the nursery service, or using spa services onboard, the package cost will be your entire cost for the cruise. No extra money is needed. Your Room, Food, and Entertainment are all included in this package. 

There are some factors that affect your Disney Cruise Package Cost. Your room type, for example, is a huge factor in the overall cost of your room. As such we recommend reading up on How to Choose Your Disney Cruise Itinerary and Stateroom for an overview of options. And if you're on a tight budget, it may be best to consider a Guaranteed Stateroom on a Disney Cruise instead, which allows Disney to choose your room for you. While that may seem risky, it is one of the cheapest ways to take a Disney Cruise. 

Destination

Another factor is the destination. Obviously, a transatlantic 14-day cruise is going to be pricier than the 4-day Caribbean Cruise. That said, consider your itinerary wisely. If you're on a budget, one of the cheapest Disney Cruises to take is to the Bahamas. A great cruise, you get one day at port and one day at Castaway Cay or Lighthouse Point. Plus, you're still getting the experience of a Disney Cruise with excellent service, entertainment, food, and characters, for much cheaper than other destinations. 

Time of Year

The time of year also plays a huge role in the cost of a Disney Cruise. The cheapest times to go on a Disney Cruise are mid-to-late January and  early February , due to being low travel season. Also, you can find good deals for Cruises sailing in early May, ahead of the summer vacation crowds. The best and cheapest time to take a Disney Cruise tends to be September . And if you're looking to take advantage of the Halloween on the High Seas Cruises or the Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise , both early November and early December see lower prices than later in each month. 

Disney Cruise Extra Costs

Here we'll dive into the MAIN THINGS that will cost extra during your Disney Cruise Vacation. So, as you're planning your Disney Budget, be sure to have a piece of paper, with these things jotted down. This will help you decide how much you want to allot for each. To get an idea of what a Disney Cruise includes, check out our Disney Alaska Cruise Itinerary for a full picture of days at sea and days on shore with a Disney cruise. 

When you Plan a Disney Cruise on a Budget the biggest expense outside of the Disney Cruise Package Cost are the Port Excursions . Offered at your Port Destination, there are excursions worth taking, and others you can skip. Most port towns are walkable, and near enough to the cruise ship that you can simply get off the boat and explore. No extra cost is needed. However, consider your location when making the choice to choose, or not choose excursions for your port days. However, keep in mind that often combining both shore excursions and free time at port can give you the best kind of vacation at a smaller cost.

Certain Excursions, like those on a Disney Cruise to Alaska , are often once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that offer a glimpse into the history of the location, or the marvels of the area. While Skagway, Alaska was very walkable, and we didn't need an excursion, our White Pass Railroad and Scenic City Tour gave us so much Gold Rush History, that it would not have been the same without it. In the Bahamas, on the other hand, we had no interest in visiting Atlantis and were content exploring the churches, pirate museum, and beach. 

Port Excursions are not included in your Cruise Package and are added to your Cruise Folio during your cruise, to be paid before disembarking. Often an attached credit card to your Disney Cruise account will simply be charged the day of your excursion, so be sure to have one attached. If adding excursions, be sure to peruse the excursion options before your Disney Cruise Port Excursion Booking Window opens. 

From specialty coffees made at Cove Cafe, to any of the Coffee Bars on the Disney Wish , you can expect to pay about 5 dollars plus tip for your fancy coffee. While we love grabbing these when we cruise, if you're buying coffee daily or for a couple of people in your family, the costs can add up. So, if we're on a tight budget, we just skip this, and head to the drinks station instead for a Homemade Mocha, of the free coffee and hot cocoa. 

Alcoholic beverages and specialty mocktails are also NOT INCLUDED in your Disney Cruise Package. This includes the drinks of the day and any drinks your order from the bars and Disney Lounges. Again, while we love trying the specialty drinks onboard, on trips where we need to save money, we just skip these and happily carry around our refillable tumbler instead. 

Specialty Classes and Bingo

Another extra expense on a Disney Cruise is the specialty classes offered onboard. While almost all the Entertainment, Trivias, Craft sessions, and classes like Towel folding and Anyone Can Cook are FREE, there are some that come with a cost.  Specialty Classes are found in the Disney Cruise Navigator App, and are able to be added to your cruise before your sail, or while you're onboard. You'll know that these classes require a charge because you can have to register for them. They include Wine Tastings, Mixology Classes,  Drink Samplings, and more. 

Bingo is another add-on you can play or not. Often about $40 for the base-level bingo cards, if you're hoping to strike it rich while onboard the Bingo games can often pay out between 5k-10k dollars for the avid players. Mind you, if you're planning to play, add this to your budget.

The "It's a Small World" nursery onboard Disney Cruise ships is a godsend to many parents. There is, however a fee for using these services. Typically about $9 per child for one hour, if you know you'll be utilizing this during your cruise, read up on all the "it's a Small World Nursery" details before you go, so you can plan accordingly. 

On a Disney Cruise, your food is included in your Disney Cruise Package Cost, with a couple of exceptions. On a Disney Cruise, meals at any of the Rotational Dining Restaurants, and any of the quick service counters on the pool deck, as well as Cabanas and Marceline Market are INCLUDED. This means your breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks are all covered. 

Food NOT INCLUDED  on a Disney Cruise can be found at Palo and Remy, both Signature Dining Experiences that need to be booked in advance and paid for separately. And anything served at the Disney Lounges on a Disney Cruise is also not included. As such, meals, drinks, and appetizers at the specialty dining locations will be added to your Cruise Folio as an extra charge. 

Internet 

Ahhh, the joys of cruise Wi-Fi. It may come as a surprise, and disappointment to realize you DO NOT GET FREE WI-FI on a Disney Cruise. While this is devastating, we try to look at it as a good way to ensure we're vacationing on our vacation, and not working. Still, it's a darn nuisance to not have access to Wi-Fi. As a result, you can buy a Wi-Fi Package while onboard. Ranging from $15 to $90 typically, the Wi-Fi packages get you very sub-par Wi-Fi, which is MB based. Meaning, if you hoped to watch videos, play games or do anything more than send emails, and do some light internet searching, you may need another option. 

Certain services onboard like Spa Services, Hair and Nail services, massages, consultations, etc. all cost extra. Many need to be booked ahead of time, so you'll be aware before you go, of just how much everything is going to be, plus tips of course. If you're trying to save money, we'd recommend skipping these as many are more expensive than if you were to book similar services at home. 

One of the relatively mandatory extra expenses you are billed is tips. This is in addition to the amount of your Disney Cruise Package. Keep in mind that some tips, like the ones for the baristas at the coffee shop, and the spa service staff, are decided by you the moment you sign the credit card receipt and write that tip down. The mandatory tips, however, are tallied for you throughout your trip. This is helpful because it shows you the cost of the tips your Room Host, Server, Assistant Server, and Lead Server will receive.

Once you have this in hand, you can adjust those tip amounts as needed. But, the amounts given are industry standard, and if you don't make modifications at the customer service desk, your card on file will be billed for those amounts before you disembark. Check out the Cost of Tips on a Disney Cruise for estimated amounts per night. 

Your transportation to and from the port is not included in your Disney Cruise Vacation Package. As such be sure to read our post on Transportation with Disney Cruise Line. This will give you a good idea of the cost if you're combining a land and sea vacation, or parking and sailing. 

If you have booked a Disney Port Excursion during your Disney Excursion, be sure to plan for Tour Guide Tips. No matter which port excursions you take, there is someone who is sharing their knowledge, time, expertise, and help during your time with them. While tips for guides vary depending on the type and length of the tour, people typically aim for between $5-$20 per tour guide. This varies depending on the role of the guide. And some tours have multiple guides that may need to be tipped. As such, we recommend making a list of any excursions you're taking, and plan to have cash on hand accordingly. 

There's always something to buy on a Disney Cruise. And depending on what kind of vacationer you are, this may be a budget item you take or leave. Since we've been on several cruises, and plan to go on several more, there is never a feeling of a "Must Have" for certain items in Disney Cruise Gift Shops. That said, if you're heading to a unique destination, like a Disney Cruise to Alaska , then there are exclusive items for that cruise, you may want to get. Consider this when planning your budget. Are you going to get the $20 mug? Or a $60 blanket? If so, add it to your budget plan. 

What is Not Included in the Price of a Disney Cruise

When planning your Disney Cruise Budget, it's important to consider how much extra you NEED to spend, above and beyond your cruise package. On our first cruise, we spent about $100 dollars on Tips. As Cast Member Tips were the only thing we "needed" to cover, we felt that vacation was a bargain. Mind you, we didn't have anything special. No specialty drinks, dining, or service. We only had one day in the Bahamas and didn't buy excursions. And simply skipped the other things that required more money. Here are the things not included on a Disney Cruise, that you may, or may not want to include in your budget. Check out our post on What's Not Included on a Disney Cruise to help drive this list home. 

What is Included in the Price of a Disney Cruise

As mentioned before the things included in your Disney Cruise are your stateroom, all your dining, and entertainment. When you consider that any Disney parks vacation never includes food, that alone could give you pause. Especially as dining at a Disney park typically runs about 80-100 per person per day, that adds up. Luckily, on a cruise, all your meals are included in the price of the Disney Cruise Vacation. With the exception of specialty dining, alcohol, and fancy coffees.  Read more about What's Included in the Price of a Disney Cruise.  

Disney Cruise Cost

Okay, so how much does a Disney Cruise Cost? You may think this is a Disney Vacation out of reach but think again. If you're planning out your Disney Cruise on a Budget, we can get you started with round figures. However, we highly recommend, just playing on the Disney Cruise Website , so you can add a number of people, preferred dates, destinations, and more to see what potential costs may be. 

How Much is a Disney Cruise Per Person?

The price of a Disney Cruise depends on the number of people, room chosen, destination, and time of year. That said, on average the cost of a Disney Cruise per person ranges from $300-$600 per person, on average . Of course, suites and concierge levels are higher. This cost per person includes the room, food, and entertainment onboard. Check out What's Included on a Disney Cruise for everything you're Cruise Package includes. 

Do you need extra money on a Disney Cruise?

That depends. Are you getting anything extra? The only "mandatory" extra charge you need to incur is the Tips for Cast Members we discussed early. And these are automatically taken out of the card you have on file. If you're taking port excursions, drinking alcohol, buying souvenirs, etc. then yes, you need extra money. 

Do you Need Cash on a Disney Cruise?

While you will not need cash or a credit card onboard a Disney Cruise Ship, it is beneficial to have for your ports of call. Mainly for tipping tour guides or paying for souvenirs. On board a Disney Cruise, everything is attached to your card on file, so if you charge anything to your room, it simply is added to your folio. Read all the details about Cash and Currency on a Disney Cruise . 

Disney Cruise Budget Totals

Okay, now for some number crunching. We're going to throw some figures together so you can see what your budget number may look like. Keep in mind these estimates will be "estimates" based on what is on the Disney Cruise Website at the time of this writing. Also, these are retail rates and could be less if you book at a discounted rate or special offer. Estimated based on 4 PEOPLE room occupancy, Sailing in September, ( the cheapest month to sail). Be sure to check out the Disney Cruise Costs for Extra Activities so you're prepared before you go. 

• Disney Cruise Vacation Package ( 4 People, Sailing in September)
• 3- Night Bahamas from Miami- $3500
• 5- Night Western Caribbean from Miami- $4500 
• 7-Night British Isles from Southampton, England- $5100
• 7-Night Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral- $5500
• 7-Night Alaska from Vancouver, Canada- $6400
• $7-$16 per drink, on average. 
• $50- $4000 per person, depending on what you book. 
• $40- $120 per person, depending on what you book. 
• $9 for the first child, $8 for any additional children, per hour. 
• $45 per person ( Brunch at Palo)- $125 per person ( Dinner at Remy) not including Chef's Table, or Specialty Menus.
• $12-$36 per day. More for each device. Can be purchased for the length of the cruise. 
• $24- $499 depending on service. Ranging from a haircut to the Spa Suite Experience. 
• $14.50 USD per night, per stateroom Guest, including infants and children. 
• $39 per person, each way from Orlando International Airport ( MCO) to Port Canaveral.
• Disney Cruise Ground Transporation Rates  
• $5- $20 per tour guide
• $10 and up.

Planning a Disney Cruise Budget

As you can see, you have quite a bit of control regarding your Disney Cruise Budget. Skipping the extras can easily make this a budget-friendly vacation. Even just being mindful about choosing excursions, or which souvenirs you buy can have a huge impact. Whatever your plans we hope this post has given you a jumping-off point for planning. Be sure to read through all the ways you can Save Money on a Disney Cruise to help you get your best deals before and during your next Disney Cruise Vacation. 

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Featured Ports and Itineraries for Fall 2021