disney cruise stateroom for 5

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Can Disney Cruise Line Staterooms Accommodate Families of 5?

by Melissa Roden · July 22, 2019

If you’re considering a Disney Cruise and have a larger family, one area of hesitation is whether or not Disney can comfortably accommodate your family size.  Though Walt Disney World has caught on over the years and has increasingly added accommodation like villas and family suites to accommodate slightly larger families, it’s still slim pickings when it comes to cruising.  That’s why we thought we’d provide a guide for families of 5 or larger!

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy Staterooms

As the two newer ships in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet, you’ll find stateroom options here that are a bit more family-friendly. Those stateroom categories that can accommodate a family of 5 includes: 

Category 8: Deluxe Family Ocean View Stateroom:

These rooms come with a queen-size bed, single convertible sofa, wall pull-down bed or upper pull-down berth. They also feature a split bath with round-tub and shower in most.   These rooms average about 241 sq. ft and come and are located on Decks 5-9. 

Category 4: Deluxe Family Ocean View Stateroom with Verandah

These are Disney Cruise Line’s largest verandah staterooms before you start to get into suite and concierge options. They come in at 299 sq ft (including the Verandah) and come with a queen-size bed, single convertible sofa, wall pull-down bed or upper pull-down berth. They also feature a split bath with round-tub and show in most.   These rooms average about 299 sq. ft  (including verandah) and are located on decks 7-10. 

Concierge Level and Suites

The two categories listed above are the most common for families of 5. However, those looking to splurge may also want to consider the Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Category V) which comes with Club Level amenities, the Concierge 1-Bedroom Suites with Verandah (Category T) or the Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah (Category R) all of which accommodate 5. 

All of the other stateroom categories on the Disney Dream or Disney Fantasy including Inside Staterooms (Categories 11 and 10), Outside Staterooms (9) or Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms (Categories 5,6 and 7) can old sleep between 3-4 guests.

Disney Magic and Disney Wonder

If you’re considering cruises to the Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Panama Canal, and Europe, chances are you’ll be aboard one of Disney Cruise Line original ships, the Magic or Wonder.  Unfortunately for larger families, these ships don’t have quite as many options as the Dream and Fantasy with NONE of the outside staterooms able to accommodate families of 5. 

This means the only stateroom (that isn’t a suite or concierge room) that can accommodate a family of 5 is the Category 4 staterooms. 

Similar to those on the Dream and Fantasy, these staterooms come in at 304 sq ft (including the Verandah) and come with a queen-size bed, single convertible sofa, wall pull-down bed or upper pull-down berth. They also feature a split bath.   You’ll find them on Deck 8. 

After that, unless you want to split guests up over two rooms, your only other options when sailing on the Magic or Wonder are  Concierge One Bedroom Suites with Verandah (Category T)  or Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah (Category R). Unlike the Dream or Fantasy, there are no Category V (Concierge Family Oceanview With Verandah) rooms on either of these ships.  However, there is also the Concierge 2 Bedroom Suite with Verandah (Category S) which can sleep up to 7 guests. 

All of the other stateroom categories on the Disney Magic or Disney Fantasy including Inside Staterooms (Categories 11 and 10), Outside Staterooms (9) or Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms (Categories 4, 5,6 and 7) can only sleep between 3-4 guests.

Would It Be Cheaper to Book Two Staterooms For My Family of 5? 

The answer to this question depends on a myriad of factors including the particular cost of your sailing, how far out you’re booking and what stateroom category you are interested in. However, if you’re debating between having the whole family in 2 inside staterooms or one outside stateroom that sleeps 5, in my experience, it is typically more affordable to have everyone in one stateroom. 

For instance, if you look at the 3-night Bahamian Sailing out of Port Canaveral on September 3, 2020, the cost of having a Family of 5 in one Category 8B (outside) stateroom is $3474.55.  The cost of splitting that family up over two inside staterooms still comes out at $3799.81 and you lose the view.  

The reason for this is that Disney Cruise Line charges the first two guests in each stateroom the full fare and any subsequent guest in a stateroom at a 1/2 off fare. If you spread your family across two staterooms you are essentially doubling up on the members of your family that are paying the full fare.  That being said, larger families may find having your entire gang in one stateroom a bit claustrophobic making shelling out a wee bit more for two staterooms the more favorable option. 

Let the Experts at MickeyTravels Help You Find Your Perfect Stateroom

Whether you have a family of 3 or are travelling in a large group of 10, let the experts at MickeyTravels help you with your travel plans.  We know Disney Cruise Line’s incredible fleet of ships inside and out and can help you find the ship, itinerary and stateroom(s) that are perfect for your family.  Getting started is easy! Simply fill out our form below to get your FREE, no-obligation quote! 

Find articles like this helpful? Then why not consider working with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner?  As an agent with MickeyTravels, I’ll be on hand to assist you with everything from finding your perfect stateroom to helping you plan lots of special touches to make your sailing truly magical.  Best of all my services are absolutely  FREE .  Get in touch at  1.800.801.4025  via email at  [email protected]   or follow along on  Facebook

Tags: 5 or more Cruise Disney Cruise Line Disney Dream Disney Fantasy Disney Magic Disney Wonder Stateroom

Melissa Roden

As an agent with MickeyTravels and a Blogger with MickeyBlog I enjoy sharing, tips, tricks and advice to help readers and clients get the most out of your time with Disney. When I'm not helping clients plan their perfect holidays or nab those hard-to-get discounts you can find me enjoying a Dole Whip at Disney World with my daughter! Reach out for a FREE, no obligation quote at 1.800.801.4025 or find me on Facebook !

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Best Staterooms on a Disney Cruise

Disney Cruise Lines are perfect for families looking to enjoy quality time together. But with so many different categories and subcategories, how do you know which stateroom is right for you? Let’s investigate how to select the best staterooms on a Disney cruise for your family vacation.

Not familiar with the term “stateroom”?  Disney Cruise Line refers to the individual passenger rooms on its cruise ships as “staterooms.”  You might have heard these previously referred to elsewhere as “ cabins .”

The Disney Cruise Line offers four main types of staterooms: Concierge (the most expensive ), Veranda, Oceanview, and Inside (the least expensive). In each category and within each ship, there are different options (subcategories). Category 1 is typically the most costly, followed by Category 2, etc. Category 11 is the least expensive. Within each category, subcategory A is typically more expensive than subcategory B, and so on.

The amenities and size of the room usually correspond to the price, with Category 1 being the biggest and best while Category 11 has the smallest rooms with the fewest features.

Within each numbered category, the letter subcategories typically designate more preferable locations on the ship’s deck plan (rather than differences in stateroom amenities).  For example, a 4A stateroom might be in a better location than a 4C stateroom, but the interiors of both staterooms will be virtually identical. Note that some Concierge staterooms are an exception to this rule; Category 1A is a drastically different stateroom versus Category 1B.

Generally speaking, rooms located on higher decks or the middle of each deck plan (known as midship or mid ) are considered more preferable than lower decks or staterooms that are forward (front of the ship) or aft (rear of the ship). Which side of the ship the room is on (port side or starboard side) generally does not factor into stateroom category.

Also note that some stateroom categories cater to different travel parties. Some staterooms might only sleep up to a family of four , whereas others can hold five or more.

Please note that this guide does not include accessible suites , which offer the same level of convenience and comfort to guests with disabilities. For questions about accessible suites or any of the below-listed rooms, please get in touch with The Vacationeer .

Their team of experienced Disney travel agents will help you find the best itineraries at the lowest price, and there’s never an additional charge for their services.

Now, let’s look at the best staterooms on a Disney Cruise ship .

Concierge Staterooms (Most Expensive Main Category)

The stunning Concierge Wish Tower Suite stateroom on the Disney Wish | Image © Disney

The Concierge category offers the most luxurious – and expensive – accommodations on Disney Cruise Line. Each room has a large private verandah and premium amenities and services.

The Concierge Wish Tower Suite and the Concierge Royal Suite are the ship’s most spacious and lavishly appointed rooms. Additionally, the Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite is a more modestly priced option that still offers an incredible experience. For families, the Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom provides plenty of space and convenient access to all of the ship’s family-friendly amenities.

Concierge-level staterooms in categories 1, 2, and 3 include additional perks , such as access to priority seating for excursions and events and exclusive access to the Concierge Lounge, where you can relax with complimentary coffee, tea, and pastries or enjoy evening hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.

Here’s a breakdown of the categories found in the Concierge category.

Category 1A – Concierge Wish Tower Suite (Disney Wish cruise ship only)

The Wish Tower Suite on Deck 14 and 15 is the Disney Cruise Line’s most luxurious room. It has two bedrooms, a space for children with two bunk beds, and a library that can convert into two more rooms. Aside from the four full bathrooms and the half-bath off the living room, the suite has floor-to-ceiling windows on both decks, providing a great view of the ship from the suite.

Eight guests can stay in this 1,966 sq. ft. suite. It has a wow factor like no other!

Recommendation :  The Concierge Wish Tower Suite is the perfect choice for families or groups who have the money to spend and won’t settle for anything less than the best. Nothing out-competes the luxury of this stateroom.  It truly is the best stateroom on a Disney Cruise.

The location of the Concierge Wish Tower Suite | Image © Disney

Category 1A – Concierge Royal Suite w/ Verandah (Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, & Wonder cruise ships)

The Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah stateroom is the largest and most luxurious suite offered on Disney’s Dream, Fantasy, Magic, and Wonder. The Magic and Wonder ships can accommodate up to 7 guests, and the Dream and Fantasy ships can accommodate up to 5 guests.

The suite features a living area with a formal dining table and sitting area and a massive verandah with a private hot tub on the Dream and Fantasy ships. The decor in these suites is luxurious and tasteful, making it the perfect choice for those looking for the ultimate in luxury and comfort.

Recommendation :  This is the Crème de la Crème of staterooms on the Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, and Wonder cruise ships. If roominess and luxury are what you’re after, and you have the money to spend, then Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah is a great choice. 

Category 1B – Concierge 2-Story Royal Suite w/ Verandah (Disney Wish)

The Concierge 2-Story Royal Suite with Verandah on the Disney Wish cruise ship is a luxurious and spacious stateroom that spans two decks (decks 12 and 13). The Suite features a spiral staircase, two large bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a large dining and living area, and two large verandahs with a private hot tub.

This stateroom is an impressive 1,759 sq. ft and can comfortably sleep six guests,

Recommendation:  The 2-Story Royal Suite is another fantastic offering from the new Disney Wish. Perfect for families and groups of six who want to be treated like kings and queens. 

Category 1B – Concierge 2-Bedroom Suite w/ Verandah (Disney Magic & Wonder)

Disney Cruise Line’s Concierge 2-Bedroom Suite with Verandah features two separate bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, and a spacious sitting area.  The total area is 945 sq. ft., including the verandah, and can accommodate up to seven people. A large verandah is perfect for enjoying the views or relaxing. It is an impressive suite, perfect for a large group or family!

This stateroom is only available on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder .

Recommendation:   An excellent choice for families who want plenty of luxury and space. Choose the starboard (right) side if you sail to Castaway Cay because you will have better views of Disney’s private island when docked. 

Category 1C – 1-Story Royal Suites w/ Verandah (Disney Wish)

With a classic elegance inspired by Sleeping Beauty, the Disney Wish’s 1-Story Royal Suites with Verandah are perfect for families and groups of up to 6. There are two bedrooms, a living room and dining room, three full bathrooms, and an impressive 1,507 square feet of living space. The wet bar is perfect for entertaining, and the large private verandah with a whirlpool tub is the ideal place to relax.

Recommendation :  These beautiful and family-friendly staterooms will make your cruise vacation unforgettable.

Category 2A and 2B – Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite w/ Verandah (All Disney Cruise Ships)

Disney cruises offer a 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah for those looking for a little extra space and privacy on their vacation. The suite sleeps up to 5 people and features a separate bedroom, two bathrooms, a living room, and a wet bar.  The main bathroom has double sinks, a rain-style shower, and a whirlpool tub. A large walk-in closet provides plenty of space for storing your belongings.

The main difference between Categories 2A and 2B is location. Magic and Wonder’s 2A suites have a slightly different layout with a longer verandah. Dream and Fantasy’s 2A suites are located between the two connecting Royal Suites and the ship’s front center. The 2A suites of the Disney Wish are located on deck 12 and have a deeper verandah than the 2B suites.

Recommendation:  This is an excellent option if you only need one bedroom but still want plenty of roominess and class. 

A Concierge One-Bedroom Suite on the Disney Fantasy | Image © Disney

Category 3A and 3B – Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom w/ Verandah (Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, & Wonder)

The Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on Disney cruises is a luxurious private room that sleeps up to five people. This room is complete with a private verandah with beautiful sea views and an abundance of warm woods and custom fabrics.

The stateroom features a queen-sized bed, a convertible sofa, a Pullman bunk bed, and a spacious bathroom with a shower, TV, and a safe. There are just over 300 square feet of living space. Additionally, families have concierge-level guests access to a private lounge and priority boarding.

Recommendation:   Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom is excellent for families that want the luxury and perks of a Concierge-level stateroom but don’t need all the bells and whistles (and expense) of the Category 1 and 2 staterooms. 

Category 3B – Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom (Disney Wish)

The Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom on Disney Wish offers stunning sea views through floor-to-ceiling windows.

A king bed, a single convertible sofa, and an upper-berth single pull-down bed make up this room, which can accommodate up to five guests. There is also a wall pull-down bed in rooms that sleep five. The 357-square-foot room provides plenty of space for the whole family to relax.

Guests staying in a Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom also have access to special concierge services, including priority boarding and seating at shows and restaurant reservations. If you’re looking for a truly magical experience, book a stay in one of these Little Mermaid-themed spaces.

Recommendation :  These are fun and family-oriented staterooms on Disney’s newest cruise ship. This is a good option if you want a Concierge-level room at a relatively affordable price.

Verandah (Balcony) Staterooms

A stateroom verandah onboard the Disney Magic | Image © Disney

Verandah staterooms are Disney’s most spacious non-concierge accommodations, each with its own balcony outside the ship where you can enjoy the fresh air while watching the ocean go by.

Category four, five, six, and seven are verandah staterooms. Some rooms in this category offer partial views, but all provide a comfortable and relaxing space.

Category 4 – Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom w/ Verandah (All Disney Cruise Ships)

The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on Disney cruises is the largest stateroom on the ships that are not concierge suites. Roughly 300 sq ft, it sleeps up to 5 and is the only single-room option for a family of 5 on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is also the most frequently booked option for families of 5 on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy .

All of these factors considered it’s no wonder that this room type is one of the most popular among families cruising with Disney.

Recommendation : The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom is perfect for families of four or five who value roominess and want to enjoy the ocean breeze from the verandah . 

Category 5 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (All Disney Cruise Ships)

The Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on Disney cruises is a fantastic choice for your family cruise. With enough space to comfortably sleep 3-4 guests and an unobstructed verandah, this room type is perfect for enjoying the beautiful view.

Magic and Wonder’s cabins are 268 sq ft, while Dream, Fantasy, and Wish are 248 sq ft. The Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah come with a queen bed, a sleeper sofa, and a pull-out berth (if sleeping four). This room type also features a sitting area, plenty of closet space, and a private verandah to enjoy the view without leaving your stateroom.

Recommendation :   Among the regular-sized verandah cabins, these are the most common and the most frequently booked for families with four or fewer members. They are an excellent choice!

A Category 5 stateroom on the Disney Dream | Image © Disney

Category 6 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah – Undersized, Obstructed View, or White Wall  (All Disney Cruise Ships)

Category 6 staterooms are located near the back of the ship’s upper deck. Accommodations are nearly identical to those found in Category 5 but have either an undersized, obstructed, or white wall verandah. Those who book a Category 6 cabin on the Magic and Wonder will have full white wall railings, while on the Dream and Fantasy, the white wall only extends halfway up the railing.

All of these staterooms sleep at least three, and many sleep 4.

Recommendation :  Because these rooms are nearly identical to Category 5 rooms, they are a terrific way to save money on your Disney cruise . We recommend the Dream and Fantasy 6B staterooms because of their stunning views, and Disney Magic and Wonder’s Category 6 staterooms on Deck 6 have more verandah space, as do 5650 and 5150.

Category 7 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator’s Verandah (All Disney Cruise Ships)

Navigator verandahs on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder feature mostly enclosed balconies with a viewing window cut out. In contrast, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish have a minimally obstructed view from the verandah.

Recommendation:  The rooms in Category 7 are nearly identical to those in Category 5 and 6, so they are a good way to save on a Disney cruise if you don’t mind having a partial view. We believe these are the best values in the verandah category, particularly on the Dream, Fantasy, and Wish.

Feeling overwhelmed?  Working with an experienced Disney travel agent can calm the waters!  Contact the Disney Cruise experts at The Vacationeer !

Not only will they arrange every part of your cruise, but they’ll provide a generous onboard credit you can use towards purchases while you’re on the ship.  There’s never any obligation to book, and there’s no additional charge to use their planning services!

If it’s your first time cruising with Disney , working with The Vacationeer really is the best way to go!

Oceanview (Porthole) Staterooms

The giant porthole featured in some oceanview staterooms on the Disney Dream | Image © Disney

The Oceanview category of staterooms (Category 8 and 9) features rooms with scenic vistas through genuine porthole windows. The Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom is perfect for families, while the Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom provides a more intimate setting.

Category 8 – Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom (Disney Dream, Fantasy, & Wish)

Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish to offer a truly luxurious cruise experience with their Category 8 Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms.

These staterooms are much larger than the standard size (around 240 sq ft), sleeping between 3 and 5 people comfortably. In addition, they feature unique round tub-showers (see the video above for Category 4) and large portholes with seating, making them the perfect place to relax and take in the breathtaking views. The exceptions to this are the 8As, which are similar to suites with two large portholes and plenty of space. Families and groups can enjoy Category 8A even more since many have a divider between the bed and seating area. None of them will disappoint.

Recommendation :  Families looking for affordability and comfort will find the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom is the right choice.

Category 9 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom (All Disney Cruise Ships)

The Category 9 Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom sleeps 3 or 4 people and is the same size as the category 10’s with a similar layout and features. The Disney Dream and Fantasy Rooms are 204 sq ft, 214 on Disney Magic and Wonder, and 218 sq ft on Disney Wish. Most rooms have a porthole on one of the walls. On the Magic and Wonder ships, the 9D staterooms on deck 1 have two small portholes instead of one large porthole.

A, B, C, and D designations represent Disney’s assessment of the location and view of the room. In Dream, Fantasy, and Wish, the 9C and 9D staterooms typically have obstructed views and are usually located in the front of the vessel.

Recommendation :  If you prefer to save money over having a porthole in your room, opt for Category 10. 

Inside Staterooms (Least Expensive Main Category)

An Inside Stateroom on the Disney Wish | Image © Disney

The Inside category features Disney Cruise Line’s base accommodations, with no window (no exterior view) but still featuring a nautical motif. The Deluxe Inside Stateroom is slightly larger than the Standard Inside Stateroom and provides additional storage space and a sitting area.

Category 10 –Deluxe Inside Stateroom (Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic, & Wonder)

Rooms in Category 10 are almost identical to those in Category 9, except for being unable to see the outside. These staterooms also have more square footage than those in Category 11.

The Disney Dream/Fantasy Deluxe Inside Staterooms are 204 sq ft, and the Disney Magic/Wonder rooms are 214 sq ft. They can accommodate 3 or 4 people.

Disney Wish does not have a Deluxe Inside category.

Virtual portholes on the Disney Dream and Fantasy ships allow passengers to see what is happening outside (along with a bit of Disney magic thrown in).

There are also a select few unnamed staterooms on the Magic/Wonder ships known in some circles as “secret porthole” staterooms — they actually have porthole windows but Disney decided not to classify them as oceanview rooms because lifeboats or other architectural elements obstruct the views.

Deluxe Inside Staterooms have a split bathroom, with one half having a sink and a shower, and the other half having a toilet and a sink. A, B, and C subcategories are assigned according to their locations, with A subcategories on upper decks or closer to midship, while C subcategories are on lower decks.

Recommendation : Deluxe Inside Cabins/Staterooms are an excellent option for couples or families of 3 or 4 on a budget. 

Category 11 – Standard Inside Stateroom (All Disney Cruise Ships)

Standard Inside Staterooms are typically the cheapest rooms available on Disney Cruise Line .

Standard Inside Staterooms sleep three, and some sleep four.  They’re smaller than other staterooms, but the amenities are the same. The Disney Magic and Wonder rooms are 184 square feet, while the Dream Fantasy and Wish rooms are 169 square feet.

There’s no split bathroom in a Standard Inside Stateroom. The Disney Dream and Fantasy ships feature a Magical Porthole with real-time views, but the other ships do not have exterior views.

Disney divides the rooms into categories A, B, and C based on attractiveness. Category 11A rooms are found on upper decks and near the ship’s middle, while 11B rooms are on lower decks.

Recommendation:  The Standard Inside Statement is a small and cheap option, so you shouldn’t expect too much from it. However, this DCL room offers more space than you would get on other (non-Disney) cruise ships of the same class. It allows couples and small families the opportunity to enjoy a Disney cruise at a reasonable price.

As always seems to be the case, the best option for you may not be the best option for another family.

Ask yourself the question: “what’s most important to me?”  Is it having a balcony? Is it experiencing concierge level service in a suite? Is it having additional beds for kids? Is it saving money and just making sure you’re onboard the ship?

Answering those questions, then reviewing deck plans, photos, reviews, and our guide/tips above will help you decide what’s best for you.

No matter your room type, you’re sure to have a magical experience aboard a Disney Cruise ship.

Thanks for reading our Best Staterooms on a Disney Cruise article.  Happy cruising (and don’t forget your passport)!

Ready to Book your Disney Cruise Line Stateroom?

Working with an experienced travel agent is the best way to ensure smooth sailing, and The Vacationeer is ready and willing to help you. They can help you determine the best staterooms on a Disney Cruise for your family and the best time to go on a Disney cruise as far as cost and weather are concerned.

Their team of Disney travel agents will help you wade through an ocean of option, arranging every part of your cruise and providing a generous onboard credit you can use towards purchases, activities, and gratuity while you’re on the ship.

Whether you’re planning far in advance or looking for a last-minute cruise , they have the know-how to save you money!

There’s never any obligation to book, and there’s no additional charge to use their planning services!

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How To Choose A Disney Cruise Stateroom

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How do you choose a Disney cruise stateroom? If you are new to cruising it can seem overwhelming at first when you are faced with the decision of which stateroom to choose.

Our guide to Disney cruise staterooms will help you to understand your choices and make the best decision for you and your family.

The first thing to realize is that whichever Disney Cruise stateroom you choose (with the exception of concierge) you will still have the same experience on the Disney ship as everyone else.

The same access to entertainment, dining, kids clubs, and all the other magical things about a Disney cruise.

However, the price you pay can be very different depending on which Disney cruise stateroom you choose. It is really important to realize this point.

If you are fine with a Disney inside stateroom, you will still have the same experience on the Disney ship itself, as those who have paid a lot more for a verandah.

The good news is that Disney cruise lines have some of the largest and best-designed staterooms in the industry. They are up to 25% larger than average cruise line cabins.

Disney cruise staterooms really are among the nicest and the best designed sailing the seas.

Want more Disney Cruise Tips? Click Here

You may also have heard about the ‘split’ bathroom. Most of the staterooms on Disney cruises have a bath, sink, and shower which is in a separate room from the toilet and sink. This is a great concept for families sharing.

The design of the Disney cruise staterooms is a nice mix of comfort, practicality and of course, some very special Disney touches.

What Disney Cruise Staterooms Are Available?

There Disney Wonder and Disney Magic have the same basic design, as do the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

The classic ships of the Wonder and the Magic have 877 staterooms and a maximum capacity of 2456 passengers.

The newer Disney Dream and Fantasy have 1250 staterooms and a maximum capacity of 3500 passengers.

There are some differences between the two types of ships, so we will describe each in turn with the Disney Magic and Wonder first.

Scroll down if you need to only see information relating to the newer ships the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Dream. You can also see our comprehensive guide at Disney Fantasy Stateroom Choices

Inside Staterooms On The Disney Wonder and Disney Magic

Generally speaking, prices are the lowest for inside staterooms and these make them a good budget choice.

You will still have the same overall Disney cruise experience – you will just probably want to spend less time in your stateroom than those with a verandah.

We think that this has benefits as you will spend more time using the amenities and fabulous areas on the ship.

There are 2 types of Interior Stateroom on the Wonder and Magic:

Interior Stateroom Category 11A, 11B and 11C

These sleep up to 4 and are 184 square feet. There are 160 of these Disney Cruise Staterooms available.

Wondering what the A, B, and C mean? These relate to the location on board ship – we will talk about this more later.

All of the inside and outside staterooms sleep either 3 or 4 people maximum. There is a Queen bed and a sofa bed in all staterooms.

Some also have a pull-down bed above the sofa so they can sleep 4.

These are the only staterooms which do not have the split bathroom. We have stayed in this category and found it fine as a great choice when you are on a budget.

Everything is well designed, but it is compact.

If you think you are going to spend a lot of time in your stateroom this honestly is probably not a great choice.

However, if this is the only one that fits into your budget then our opinion is go ahead and book.

You still get to enjoy everything everyone else does on the ship – you just don’t pay as much!

Deluxe Interior Stateroom Category 10A, 10B and 10C on Disney Wonder and Magic

These are larger inside staterooms at 214 square feet. They do have the split bathroom so the toilet is separate from the bath and shower room.

There are 96 Deluxe Inside Staterooms available.

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Oceanview Staterooms on Disney Magic and Disney Wonder Category 9A, 9B, 9C and 9D

These are the same square footage at 214 as the Deluxe Interior Staterooms. The difference is they have a window or porthole.

Navigator Verandah Staterooms on Disney Wonder and Disney Magic Category 7A

These are very popular staterooms and are usually the first to be completely booked. This is a design unique to the Disney cruise line as it is a mix of Outside and Verandah staterooms.

The stateroom is 214 square feet and the same design as the Oceanview cabin. The difference is an enclosed balcony of 54 square feet. There is a separate sitting area that looks a lot like a balcony but it not open to the outside.

The Navigator Verandah Staterooms sleep up to 3 guests.

They are not available on the Disney Fantasy or Disney Dream.

Deluxe Verandah Staterooms on Disney Wonder and Magic Category 5A,5B,5C and 6A

These are the same design as the Oceanview and are 214 square feet, with the addition of a verandah of 54 square feet. These sleep up to 4 guests.

This is the ideal choice of many Disney cruise guests as it offers the balcony.

Disney Deluxe Family Stateroom With Verandah

These are a cruise rarity – a stateroom that sleeps 5. For most cruise lines you have to book a suite to have room for 5 but on Disney, these Verandah staterooms are great for larger families.

These Disney cruise staterooms are 250 square feet with a verandah of 54 square feet.

There is a Queen bed, sleeper sofa, and drop down above, with an additional drop-down bed that goes in front of the verandah door.

We have stayed in these staterooms multiple times and they offer great space for families of up to 5.

All of the Deluxe Family Staterooms with Verandah are on Deck 8 of the Disney Magic and Wonder and there are 80 available.

Inside Staterooms On Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy

Again there are 2 different types of inside stateroom on the new ships. The great innovation on these newer ships is the Virtual Porthole in all of the inside staterooms.

The Virtual Porthole is a video screen that projects images of the outside of the ship. And if you watch carefully you may well see some Disney characters swim across the screen.

These staterooms are very popular, and often sell out more quickly than the Outside Categories.

Interior Stateroom Disney Dream and Fantasy Category 11A, 11B and 11C

These are 169 square feet and do not have the split bathroom. They have a Queen bed and sleeper sofa. Some also have the drop-down bed above the sleeper.

There are 131 interior staterooms available on Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

Deluxe Interior Staterooms on Disney Dream and Fantasy Category 10A

These are 204 square feet and sleep either 3 or 4. There are 19 staterooms so this Category tends to sell out quickly. These do have the split bathroom.

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom on Disney Fantasy and Dream Category 9A,9B,9C and 9D

These Disney cruise staterooms are 204 square feet and have one or two small portholes. They sleep up to 4 guest and there are 91 available.

Family Oceanview Stateroom On Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream Category 8A,8B,8C and 8D

These Family Oceanview Staterooms sleep up to 5 guests and are 241 square feet. They have a Queen bed, sleeper sofa with drop-down bunk bed above, and an additional pull-down bed near the window.

These Oceanview staterooms have a large porthole window which can be used as a window seat.

There are 108 staterooms.

Deluxe Verandah Stateroom on Disney Fantasy and Dream Category 5A,5B,5C,5D,5E,6A,6B and 7A

These are the most plentiful staterooms with 499 to choose from onboard the Fantasy and Dream. They sleep up to 4 and have 203 square feet of living space and a balcony verandah of 43 square feet.

They have a Queen bed and sleeper sofa with some also having the drop-down bunk.

Family Verandah Stateroom On Disney Fantasy and Dream Category 4A,4B,4C,4D and 4E

These are 256 square feet of living space and a verandah of 43 square feet. There are 362 staterooms to choose from. They sleep up to 5 and all have a Queen bed, sleeper sofa with bunk above, and a drop-down bed near the verandah.

Concierge Staterooms On Disney Cruise Line

There are distinct differences between the classic ships the Magic and the Wonder and the newer ships the Fantasy and Dream.

The newer ships were designed to have more benefits for concierge guests than on the Wonder and Dream.

Both the Fantasy and the Dream have a concierge lounge and private deck.

The Disney Magic and Wonder do now how a concierge lounge which is converted from a former adults-only lounge.

Here are the extra benefits for Concierge Guests:

Early Embarkation . Concierge Guests are the first to board the ship. Also depending upon the cruise port of departure there may be a special Concierge waiting area or lounge in the port. Not much of a benefit except you will be assured you will actually get a chair!

Concierge Lounge This is a nice benefit on all Disney ships.

The Lounge on the Fantasy and Dream is open from 7 am to 10 pm and is always staffed by a concierge who will help you with anything you need.

There are snacks in the lounge as well – as if you don’t have enough eating options already. Alcoholic drinks are served and are complimentary at certain times. 

Concierge Guests Can Book Onboard Activities and Port Adventures Early

This can be a huge benefit for some activities which book quickly such as the cabanas on Castaway Cay. Really your only chance of getting these is if you are a concierge guest as they are in extremely high demand.

Priority Tender Boarding

This is a very nice perk with tender ports as concierge guests can have priority getting to shore on the tender boats.

The Concierge Sundeck is a very nice private area for concierge guests. It tends to be really quiet and there is never a problem getting a lounge chair.

Concierge Dining Choices are available so that you can have your meals served in your stateroom (except Category V on the new ships).

Disney Wonder and Magic Concierge Staterooms

The smallest Concierge staterooms on the Wonder and Magic are the Concierge Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah . They are 304 square feet and sleep up to 5 guests.

They are all on Deck 8 and are identical in size and configuration to the Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah which can be found on the same deck.

They have upgraded bedding and amenities. They were upgraded when the Concierge Lounges were added to the Classic Ships.

There are One Bedroom Suites that sleep up to 5 guests in 614 square feet of space. there are 18 of these on the Wonder and Magic.

Also available on the classic ships are Two Bedroom Staterooms with 945 square feet of space and sleeping up to 7 guests.

For the ultimate in luxury and space, guests can enjoy the Walt Disney or the Roy Disney Royal Suites . At 1029 square feet you have enough room for 7 guests.

Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream Concierge Staterooms

There are more concierge staterooms available on the new Fantasy and Dream than there are on the classic ships.

Disney realized the high demand and designed the new ships to accommodate more guests in concierge with better facilities.

Concierge Family Verandah Stateroom Disney Fantasy and Dream Category V

There are 20 Concierge Family Verandah Staterooms to choose from and each are 263 square feet with a 43 square foot balcony.

The basic design is the same as the Family Verandah Staterooms but with upgraded furnishings and bedding and of course access to concierge facilities.

These staterooms sleep up to 5.

Concierge One Bedroom Suite Stateroom on Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream Category T

There are 19 One Bedroom Suite Staterooms with 536 square feet of space and 86 square foot verandah.

There is a Queen size bed in the bedroom and a double sofa bed in the living area. There is also a single pull down wall bed in the living area.

The living area has a dining table and you can order from the dining room menus.

Concierge Royal Suite Stateroom on Disney Dream and Fantasy Category R

These are the most luxurious suites on the Disney ships and there are only 2 of them. They usually book on day one when booking opens.

The Suites sleep up to 5 guests in 898 square feet of space with an additional 883 square feet of the wrap-around curved verandah.

There is a master bedroom with a Queen bed. There is a pull-down wall double sofa bed and a pull-down single bed in the living area.

If you want the ultimate in luxury and have no budget considerations then this is the one for you!

Which Deck Is The Best on the Disney Fantasy and Dream?

This is a question which people spend a lot of time over but really it isn’t that big of a deal. The lower the deck the cheaper the price is the usual idea.

There can be hundreds of dollars difference between the same design stateroom if one is on a higher deck.

We have sailed on many of the decks and decided it really does not make any difference to your enjoyment of your cruise.

The advantage of the lower decks is they are nearer to restaurants, shopping, and the theatre.

The higher decks are closer to the pools, the spa and the adult areas – and of course the buffet.

The general idea of cruise ships is that the lower, midship rooms are more stable so if you think seasickness may be an issue .

But we have sailed on rough seas on the Disney Wonder on Deck 8 and really not been affected at all. This just depends on your personal preference.

Another consideration is what is above your stateroom. In our opinion, this doesn’t matter that much on the Disney ships.

We have sailed on Deck 8 of the Disney Wonder many times and it is true that you can hear some activity, sometimes, on the pool deck above.

But we have never found it loud enough to be a problem.

Do You Really Need A Balcony Stateroom?

The simple fact is that balcony staterooms cost more than inside or outside ones. The difference can be quite considerable.

If you can afford it then definitely choose the verandah stateroom.

It is nice to sit outside on your own balcony overlooking the ocean or getting excited about your port arrival. On cruises to Alaska, Europe and The Panama Canal a balcony is particularly nice.

But if the choice is a balcony cabin or waiting to book the Disney cruise because you need to save up more, then I would choose an inside stateroom and go on a cruise!

Where Are The Disney Cruise Staterooms To Avoid?

This is always a big question for anyone going on a Disney cruise. If you start to research this there are a lot of opinions about things to avoid.

Most people say to avoid staterooms under the pool deck – but our experience on Disney ships is that this really isn’t good advice.

We have stayed many times on Deck 8 of the classic ships and have experienced only very occasional noise from the pool deck above.

If you are still concerned about this then avoid the lowest decks because of possible noise from the anchor when arriving at tender ports (so likely to happen only once on your cruise) or engine noise.

We have never experienced this but have read many reviews and some guests do seem to experience it.

Really there aren’t any bad staterooms. One of our most enjoyable Disney cruises was when staying on Deck 2 in one of the least cost staterooms available.

We heard no noise, felt no motion, and had a great time.

What About Single Travelers On A Disney Cruise?

There are certainly many people who travel on Disney cruises as singles. Unfortunately, they will pay as much for a stateroom as 2 guests though – Disney does not give a price concession to singles.

There are sometimes singles lunch events on Sea Days but Disney is not concentrating on the single market.

We would love to see more encouragement of single cruisers but for the moment we guess that Disney really doesn’t need to pursue this market.

Which is your favorite Disney cruise stateroom? We would love to hear from you, so just leave us a comment!

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 Cruise Stateroom Guide for Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

Disclaimer: this Stateroom guide for Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy page includes affiliate links. Read full Disclosure Policy .

Img: Disney Cruise Line

Stateroom Guide: Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

By Alisha Molen

So, you’ve decided you’ll be sailing on either the Disney Dream  or the Disney Fantasy .

Now, it’s time to decide which stateroom is right for you.

First things first though…

Did you review our primer on How to Choose a Disney Cruise Stateroom ?

In that guide, I explain:

• The four different kinds of staterooms available on a Disney Cruise
• What comes standard in every Disney Cruise stateroom
• What is NOT included in your stateroom
• What do these strange category numbers mean for each stateroom?
• How many guests can sleep in a stateroom
• And lastly...our recommended method for selecting a stateroom

If you haven’t read it yet, I strongly recommend you read that guide first , as that will give you the background information you need about Disney Cruise staterooms.

Ready to go forward?

Awesome ...you’re now ready to evaluate the various stateroom options available on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy cruise ships.

Table of Contents

Inside staterooms, oceanview staterooms, verandah staterooms, concierge staterooms.

• "Secret" Staterooms

Inside staterooms are the most budget-friendly options onboard the Dream and the Fantasy.

They are usually the smallest staterooms and do not offer a window or balcony to the outside.

However, you get something pretty cool that oceanview and verandah staterooms don't have:  Magical Portholes!

Magical Portholes

All inside staterooms on both the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy have Magical Portholes that show a real-time view of the outside just as if you did have a porthole.

If you have a starboard stateroom, you get the actual , current starboard view displayed on your Magical Porthole (LCD flat-screen monitor) Pretty nifty if you ask me!

Oh, and make sure to watch for little surprises that might float by.

And when you are ready for bed, just flip a switch to turn it off.

Two Variations of Inside Staterooms

There are two variations of Inside Staterooms: Standard and Deluxe .

One important difference between these variations is the bathroom configuration:

The Standard Inside staterooms offer a full bath while Deluxe Inside provide a split bath.

A full bath is where the tub/shower, toilet, and sink are all in one room.

A split bathroom means there are basically two bathrooms which is so helpful when multiple people are getting ready. One has a toilet and a sink, and the other has a tub/shower and a sink. 

Below are more details about the “Standard” and “Deluxe” variations of Inside Staterooms and how they differ:

Standard Inside Staterooms: Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

Standard inside stateroom images.

Images: Disney Cruise Line

Deluxe Inside Staterooms: Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

Deluxe inside stateroom images.

Oceanview Staterooms found on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are called "Deluxe Oceanview" and "Deluxe Family Oceanview".

The difference?

Deluxe Family Oceanview rooms are slightly bigger in square footage and can sleep up to 5 guests.

All Oceanview cabins are very similar to the Deluxe Inside Staterooms, except they offer a real porthole with a view outside of the ship.

Here are the specifications:

Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms: Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

Deluxe oceanview stateroom images, deluxe family oceanview staterooms: disney dream & disney fantasy.

Room Notes:

• Categories 8B, 8C, 8D have round tubs with rainfall shower heads
• 5018, 5518, 6012, 6510 and 6512
• Privacy wall divider in rooms 5020, 5022, 5520 and 5522, or a
• Vertical pole in rooms 6014, 6016, 6512 and 6514

If you want to be able to sit outside on a private open-air balcony, then a Verandah Stateroom is the way to go.

There are 3 kinds of verandahs:

Standard Verandah . Features an open-air balcony skirted by an acrylic wall, offering a full view of the horizon even while seated. ( Found in Categories 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D. Category 5E have oversized verandahs, facing off back of the ship)

Standard Verandah - Img: Disney Cruise Line

Whitewall Verandah . Provides open-air lounging with a solid wall from the deck to the railing. Most of these staterooms are located in the aft of the ship. (Found in Category 6A, 6B)

Whitewall Verandah - Img: Disney Cruise Line

Navigator's Verandah.  Enclosed for greater privacy, while still delivering a stunning view and sea breezes through a large, open-air porthole above the railing. (Found in Category 7A)

Navigator's Verandah - Img: Disney Cruise Line

About Connecting Verandah Staterooms

On most connecting verandah staterooms, the outside partitions can be opened to create an even more spacious balcony with access between rooms. Contact your stateroom host to unlock the partitions.

Two Variations of Verandah Staterooms

There are two variations of Verandah Staterooms: Deluxe and Deluxe Family.

The difference? Deluxe Family offers a little more square footage and can sleep up to 5 (instead of only 4).

Below are more details about the “Deluxe” and “Deluxe Family” variations of Verandah Staterooms and how they differ:

Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah: Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

Deluxe oceanview with verandah stateroom images, deluxe family oceanview staterooms with verandah: disney dream & disney fantasy.

• Categories 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D have round tubs with rainfall shower heads
• Category 4E can only sleep 3 to 4 guests and has an oversized verandah that is about 2.5 times bigger than the standard verandah.
• Category 4 staterooms have standard verandahs with clear Plexiglas walls.

Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah Stateroom Images

If you’re looking for a splurge to make your Disney Cruise even more magical, take a peek at the Concierge Staterooms .

These lavish cabins are a dream!

On top of the extra room in these suites, you’ll get access to extra amenities, such as:

• Down duvets
• Plush robes and slippers
• Elemis spa products
• Complimentary WiFi service (up to 100mb)
• Dedicated Concierge team
• Access to the Concierge Lounge and Sundeck
• The earliest check-in, giving the ability to begin booking reservations 120 days prior to sail date

Talk about luxury!

Here’s what the different cabins include:

Concierge Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah: Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

Concierge family oceanview verandah images, concierge 1-bedroom suites with verandah: disney dream & disney fantasy, concierge 1-bedroom suites verandah images, concierge royal suites with verandah: disney dream & disney fantasy, concierge royal suites verandah images, secret staterooms.

Have you heard about Disney’s “ Secret Staterooms "?

So why is it a secret?

Well, because you get a higher category cabin for the price of a lesser category cabin.

Basically, you get more for your money on these unadvertised staterooms.

Yes! I love Disney secrets and I love saving money even more!  

Secret Verandah Staterooms

Both the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy have 24   secret verandah staterooms  that are priced as Category 7 but are really Category 5 and 6.

Most of these rooms have a standard verandah but some sort of partially obstructed view because of an overhand that cuts off some of your view. Some views are less obstructed than others.

But listen up...

If you want one of these Secret Verandah staterooms, you better plan on booking early as these cabins have become very popular.

In the chart below I have listed the staterooms in order of least to most obstructed views.    

Secret Verandah Staterooms: Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

Rooms to avoid.

I haven't stayed in these rooms but from what I've read you might want to steer clear of 5024 and 5524.

The extended verandah of the cabin next door blocks your view and provides neighbors with a clear view into your stateroom from their verandah.

See video tour of Disney Dream 5524 below:

Triangular Verandah

There are two more 7A staterooms that don’t have an obstruction, but have a smaller (they call it undersized) triangular verandah. These are staterooms 5188 & 5688. Chairs do not fit on the verandah but there is a bench to sit on and enjoy the view.

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Disney Cruise Line Stateroom Categories Explained

Front, back, top, bottom, left, right, somewhere in the middle? There are so many choices when choosing your stateroom (like a hotel room, but on water) on a Disney Cruise. No worries though, I explain all of the various categories and help you choose the best stateroom for your family’s magical vacation!

As of right now, there are 4 Disney ships in their fleet. The Dream and Fantasy are sister ships with the same layout and the Magic and Wonder are sister ships with the same layout. When selecting a cruise itinerary, you want to make sure you know which ship you will be sailing on because the stateroom categories are different.

There are 2 main things you have to consider when choosing a stateroom: what type of stateroom do you want (floor plan) and where on the ship do you want to be (category). The Dream and Fantasy have 9 floor plans and 28 room categories. The Magic & Wonder have 10 floor plans and 22 room categories. That’s a lot! I have broken it down into 4 easy steps to pick your perfect stateroom!

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy Deck Plans

Disney Magic and Disney Wonder Deck Plans

4 steps to choosing your stateroom:

Determine how many people are in your party. This decides what type of room you need. When you go online to look at availability, select the total number of adults and children (with their ages) the rooms will be filtered down to the ones that will fit your party size.

Dream & Fantasy: If you have 1, 2, 3, or 4 people in your party you have free access to all rooms and categories on the ship. If you have 5 people, you can choose from 5 floor plans on the ships. If you have more than 5 on the Dream & Fantasy you will need 2 staterooms.

Magic & Wonder: If you have 1, 2 or 3 people in your party you can choose between all room floor plans and categories on the ships. If you have 4 people you can choose from 9 floor plans. 5 people, you can choose between 5 floor plans and there are 2 floor plans that can sleep up to 7!

Choose 1 of 4 floor plans. Do you want a room with a view?

1.     Inside: no windows (however, the Fantasy and Dream have Magical Portholes; a LED TV screen over the bed with real-time views of outside)

2.     Oceanview: Dream & Fantasy: 1 or 2 large portholes, Magic & Wonder: 1 large porthole or 2 smaller portholes

3.     Verandah: There are 3 types of verandahs (balconies):

•  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. Most of these staterooms are located in the back (aft) portion of the ship.
• The  navigator’s verandah  is enclosed for greater privacy while still affording a stunning view and sea breezes through a large, open-air porthole above the railing.
• Verandahs differ by size and style depending on the ship and stateroom type, and the view on some verandahs may be obstructed.
• On connecting verandah staterooms, the partitions can be opened to create an even more spacious balcony.

• Concierge: Personalized assistance in planning every cruise detail, including:

Pre-reserve many of your onboard activities and services online, up to 120 days prior to your sail date.

• Port Adventures
• Reservations for  Palo or Remy , spa treatments or nursery stays
• Dining room seating requests
• Special occasions and celebrations
• Any other special requests, from pre-arrival to post-cruise

Shipboard Services

• Priority check-in and boarding at a dedicated check-in station
• Private welcome reception
• Exclusive access to dedicated areas on the ship, including the Concierge Lounge and sun deck via a private entrance.
• Down Duvets
• Choose from pillow options including hypoallergenic, feather and therapeutic memory foam
• Personal robe and slippers
• Access to the media library in the Concierge Lounge
• Complimentary Wi-Fi internet service (length of cruise)

Room preferences to consider:

What specific stateroom type do you want?

• Suite: Royal, 1 bedroom, or 2 bedrooms
• Deluxe family: sleeps 5
• Deluxe: split bathroom
• Standard: single bathroom
• Guaranteed: Disney will select for you your stateroom and guarantee that it will be in the category chosen or a higher category. This is a restricted-fare category.
• Wheelchair accessible

Where on the ship do you want to be? Forward (front), midship, or aft (back)

Do you get seasick? There are different theories to this, but generally, if you get sea sick you will want a stateroom with a verandah so you can breathe in fresh air or a room with a porthole. Focusing on the line where the sky meets the sea can help alleviate nausea. Also, having a stateroom in the middle of the ship helps with the rocking feeling.

Are you on a budget? The higher the deck the more expensive the stateroom is. Also, the closer you are to mid ship the more expensive the room is. You will also pay more to see the ocean. Inside staterooms with no windows on a lower deck either near the front (forward) or back (aft) are the least expensive.

Pick your room

In this step, you actually get to choose your specific room number. You can also select staterooms that adjoin if you are going with another stateroom. If the room connects, you will see an arrow next to the room number. The direction the arrow is going in is the room it connects to. You can still select one of these rooms even if you are not traveling with another party, you just don’t want to unlock the door 🙂

Do you want to be next to the elevators? The elevators midship are generally busier and therefore are louder, but on the other hand, you also have close access to the stairwell & elevators to get to other decks quickly.

When you have made your selection, you will be given a category #. For example, it will look like this: (Category 04E).

You’re done, celebrate!

But what does that number and letter mean?

If you want to dig in deeper to the room categories and find out what the number and letter means, you can keep on reading. I am giving you fair warning, there is a lot of information below.  For planning purposes, my suggestion is to print out the list below and make notes or cross off which ones do not fit your needs.

Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy Category Specifics

These are the larger ships in Disney’s fleet with 1,250 staterooms each. There are 14 decks (or levels); 9 have staterooms on them, with 28 categories and 9 room layouts! 

9 Stateroom Layouts on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy

1. concierge royal suite with verandah.

• Category R: There are only 2 of this type of room on each ship. Both are on deck 12 at the very front of the ship (forward). One is on the left (port) the other is on the right (starboard).
• 1,781 square feet, including the verandah
• One master bedroom with queen size bed
• One wall pull-down double bed
• One wall pull-down single bed in the living room
• Two bathrooms with rain shower
• Whirlpool tub
• Living room
• Dining salon
• Walk-in closets

2. Concierge 1-bedroom suite with Verandah

• Category T: There are 19 of these type rooms on each ship. They are located on decks 11 and 12 near the front of the ship (forward). Located on both sides of the ship. 1 is wheelchair accessible.
• 622 square feet including verandah
• One bedroom with queen size bed
• Living area with double convertible sofa
• Private Verandah

3. Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

• Category V: There are 20 of these types of rooms on each ship. They are located on decks 11 and 12 near the front of the ship (forward). Located on both sides of the ship. 1 is wheelchair accessible.
• 306 square feet including verandah
• Queen size bed
• Double convertible sofa
• Upper berth pull-down bed
• Full bath with round tub and shower
• Additional half bath

4. Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

• 04 A has 128 staterooms with 64 on deck 9 and 64 on deck 10. All are located midship to back (aft).
• 04 B has 62 staterooms all on deck 8. All are located midship to back (aft). 4 are wheelchair accessible.
• 04 C has 64 staterooms all on deck 7. All are located midship to back (aft).
• 04 D has 63 staterooms all on deck 6. All are located midship to back (aft). 2 are wheelchair accessible.
• 04 E has 44 staterooms all on deck 5. All are located near the front (forward) or back (aft). 1 is wheelchair accessible.
• 299 square feet including verandah
• Single convertible sofa
• Wall pull-down bed (in most)
• Upper berth pull-down bed (in some)
• Split bath with round tub (in most) and shower

5. Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

• There are a total of 3 categories each broken down: 05 (A-E), 06 (A & B), & 07 (A)
• 05 A has 168 staterooms on deck 9 & 10. All are located midship to the front (forward) or back (aft).
• 05 B has 78 staterooms all on deck 8. All are located midship to the front (forward) or back (aft).
• 05 C has 82 staterooms all on deck 7. All are located midship to the front (forward) or back (aft).
• 05 D has 88 staterooms all on deck 6. All are located midship to the front (forward) or back (aft).
• 05 E has 29 staterooms on deck 6, 7, 8, 9, & 10. All are located at the very back (aft). All have white wall verandahs. 2 are wheelchair accessible.
• 06 A has 10 staterooms on decks 8 & 9. All are located back (aft). All have white wall verandahs.
• 06 B has 20 staterooms on decks 5, 6, & 7. All are located back (aft). All have white wall verandahs.
• 07 A is a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator’s Verandah. There are 24 staterooms located on decks 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9. Mainly in the front (forward) or back (aft)
• 246 square feet including verandah
• Upper berth pull-down bed (if sleeping 4)
• Split bath with tub and shower

6. Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom

• 08 A has 12 staterooms located on decks 5 & 6 in the front (forward). The shapes of these rooms are squarer versus rectangular and each stateroom has 2 large portholes! 1 is wheelchair accessible.
• 08 B has 22 staterooms located on deck 9, either in the front (forward) or back (aft).
• 08 C has 44 staterooms located on decks 7 & 8, either in the front (forward) or back (aft).
• 08 D has 30 staterooms located on decks 7 & 8, either in the front (forward) or back (aft).
• 241 square feet
• Split bath with round tub and shower (in most)

7. Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom

• 09 A has 10 staterooms located on decks 5, 6, 7, & 8 all either in the front (forward) or back (aft). 4 are wheelchair accessible.
• Things to keep in mind when booking this category: the main lobby atrium is the deck above and the tender lobby is the deck below, so it might be noisy
• 09 C has 10 staterooms located on decks 7 & 8 at the very front (forward) of the ship. 2 are wheelchair accessible.
• 09 D has 11 staterooms located on decks 6, 7, & 8 all at the very front (forward) of the ship. 3 are wheelchair accessible.
• 204 square feet

8.    Deluxe Inside Stateroom

• Category 10 A has 19 staterooms sporadically located on decks 5, 6, 7, 8, & 9

9.    Standard Inside Stateroom

• 11 A has 64 staterooms located on decks 8, 9, & 10. There are some located front (forward), midship, and back (aft)
• 11 B has 40 staterooms located on decks 5, 6, & 7. Most are located near the front (forward) and back (aft) of the ship.
• 169 square feet
• Bath with tub and shower

Disney Magic & Disney Wonder Specifics

These are the smaller ships in Disney’s fleet with 875 staterooms each. There are 11 decks (or levels); 6 have staterooms on them, with 22 categories and 10 room layouts!

10 Stateroom Layouts on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder

1.    concierge royal suite with verandah.

• Category R: There are only 2 of this type of room on each ship. Both are on deck 8 at the mid to front of the ship (forward). The one on the left (port) is the Walter E. Disney Suite and the other, on the right (starboard) is the Roy O. Disney Suite.
• 1,029 square feet, including the verandah
• Two bedrooms with queen size bed the other has two twin beds and two pull-down upper berths
• Two and a half bathrooms with whirlpool tubs
• Media library with wall pull-down bed

2.    Concierge 2-bedroom suite with Verandah

• Category S: There are 2 of these type rooms on each ship. They are located on deck 8 near the front of the ship (forward). One on each side (port and starboard).
• 945 square feet including verandah
• Living area with convertible sofa
• Two and a half bathrooms

3.    Concierge 1-bedroom suite with Verandah

• Category T: There are 18 of these type rooms on each ship. They are located throughout deck 8. 4 are wheelchair accessible
• 614 square feet including verandah
• Two bathrooms

4.    Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

• Category V: There are 10 of these types of rooms on each ship. They are located on deck 8 throughout.
• 304 square feet including verandah
• Pull-down upper berth bed (in most)
• Privacy divider

5.    Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

• 04 A has 32 staterooms on deck 8. All are located midship to back (aft).
• 04 B has 32 staterooms all on deck 8. Located front (forward) and back (aft).
• 04 E has 6 staterooms all on deck 8. All are located near back (aft). 1 is wheelchair accessible.
• Wall pull-down bed
• Pull-down upper berth (in most)
• Private verandah

6.    Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah

• This floor plan is broken down into 2 categories 05 (A-C) & 06 (A)
• 05 A has 58 staterooms on deck 7. All are located midship
• 05 B has 106 staterooms: 46 are on deck 7 in the front (forward) or back (aft) and 60 are on deck 6 all located midship.
• 05 C has 56 staterooms 46 are on deck 6 in the front (forward) or back (aft) and 10 are on deck 5 all located near the back (aft).
• 06 A has 32 staterooms on decks 5,6, & 7. All are located back (aft). 6 are wheelchair accessible.
• 268 square feet including verandah

7.    Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator’s Verandah

• Category 07 A has 30 staterooms located on decks 5, 6, & 7 all in the back (aft) of the ship.
• Enclosed private verandah with limited views

8.    Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom

• 09 A has 58 staterooms located on decks 5, 6, & 7 in the front (forward). 2 are wheelchair accessible.
• 09 B has 66 staterooms located on deck 2, all are mid-deck.
• 09 C has 80 staterooms located on decks 2, either in the front (forward) or back (aft).
• 09 D has 25 staterooms located on decks 1, all are mid-deck to the front (forward) and on the left (port side). All rooms in this category have 2 small portholes.

9.    Deluxe Inside Stateroom

• 10 A has 19 staterooms located on decks 5, 6, & 7. All are located in the front (forward) of the ship. 1 on deck 7 is wheelchair accessible.
• 10 B has 48 staterooms located on deck 2. Mainly midship.
• 10 C has 17 staterooms located on deck 1. All are mid-deck to the front (forward) and on the left (port side).
• 214 square feet
• Upper berth pull-down bed (in some) Privacy divider

10.  Standard Inside Stateroom

• 11 A has 66 staterooms located on decks 6 & 7. There are some located front (forward), midship, and back (aft). 2 are wheelchair accessible.
• 11 B has 81 staterooms located on decks 6 & 7. All are located near the front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship.
• 11 C has 37 staterooms located on deck 2 & 3. All on deck 2 are located near the front (forward) of the ship and those on deck 3 are located in the back (aft).
• 184 square feet

If you made it this far, hi and thank you!

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May 4, 2017 by Jessica Tullino

Your Guide to Disney Cruise Line® Stateroom Categories

If you’ve ever researched a Disney Cruise, you’ve probably noticed stateroom categories such as “11A” or “4B” attached to your selections.  But what do those categories mean?  How do you know you’re picking the right category for your family?  Do you choose the cheapest option or one of the upgraded rooms?

Here’s your (somewhat) quick guide to understanding stateroom categories on Disney Cruise Line!

Main Stateroom Categories

There are four main categories of staterooms you will find on board the ship.

Inside Staterooms

These rooms are located on the interior of the ship and have no exterior views.  They sleep 3-4 people and have 169-204 sq ft of space.  If you’re cruising on the Disney Dream or the Disney Fantasy, these rooms have “Magical Portholes” with real-time views and virtual effects.

• Categories: 10 and 11

Oceanview Staterooms

These rooms have either one large or two smaller portholes with beautiful exterior views.  They sleep 3-5 people and have 204-241 sq ft of space.

• Categories: 8 and 9

Verandah Staterooms

These rooms have private balconies with floor-to-ceiling windows offering wide views of the ocean.  They sleep 3-5 people and have 246-299 sq ft of space.

• Categories: 4, 5, 6, and 7

Concierge Staterooms

These suites offer large balconies, separate living and bedroom areas, and Disney’s exclusive concierge services.  They sleep 5-7 people and have 306-1,781 sq ft of space.

• Categories: V, T, S, and R

Stateroom Types

These are the five types of room layouts you can choose from.  The size of your family and the amount of space you’d prefer will help you determine which stateroom is best for you.

These include only the Standard Inside Staterooms, which have the same high-end amenities as other staterooms with a smaller amount of space.  They also have a traditional bathroom layout (instead of a split bath).

• Inside Stateroom Category: 11

These include Deluxe Inside Staterooms, Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms, and Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandahs.  They have a larger amount of space and offer split bathroom layouts (one half with a sink/toilet and the other with a sink and shower/tub).

• Inside Stateroom Category: 10
• Oceanview Stateroom Category: 9
• Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah Categories: 5, 6, and 7

Deluxe Family

These include Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms, Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandahs, and Concierge Level Staterooms.  They have an even larger amount of space and often feature two portholes.  They sleep up to 5 people and offer split bathroom layouts.

• Oceanview Stateroom Category: 8
• Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah Category: 4
• Concierge Stateroom Category: V

1- or 2-Bedroom Suites

These suites are offered at the Concierge Level and feature separate, spacious bedrooms with living and dining areas.  The balconies are very large and the rooms accommodate 5-7 people.

• Concierge Stateroom Categories: S and T

Royal Suite

Each ship has two Royal Suites that offer unparalleled luxury.  These rooms have a separate bedroom, 2 bathrooms, living and dining rooms, a wet bar, a walk-in closet, and a large balcony with a private whirlpool tub.

• Concierge Stateroom Category: R

Specific Stateroom Categories

A few of the stateroom categories have distinct features, such as the following.  Many of these are offered at a discounted price compared to their counterparts.

Obstructed or Limited Ocean Views

These rooms have portholes with partial views of the exterior.  As such, they are cheaper than staterooms with unobstructed views.

• Oceanview Stateroom Categories: 9C and 9D (Disney Dream/Fantasy)

Oversized Private Verandah

These rooms have extra balcony space, great if you’re looking to spend more time outside enjoying your private verandah.

• Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah Categories: 4E and 5E (Disney Dream/Fantasy)

Navigator’s Verandah

These rooms offer enclosed verandahs with large open-air portholes.

• Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah Category: 7A

Whitewall Verandah

These rooms have balconies with solid walls from the deck to the railing instead of clear, acrylic ones.

• Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah Categories: 5E, 6A, and 6B

Stateroom Location

The final determination for the stateroom category comes from where it is located on the ship.  Categories correspond to different decks and areas, such as forward, midship, or aft.

This guide will help you determine which stateroom categories are located on each deck!

Disney Magic & Disney Wonder

• Decks 9-11 : Pools, Recreation, Lounges, and Restaurants
• Category R: Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah
• Category S: Concierge 2-Bedroom Suite with Verandah
• Category T: Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah
• Category 4A/4B/4E: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 5A/5B: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 6A: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 7A: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator’s Verandah
• Category 9A: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
• Category 10A: Deluxe Inside Stateroom
• Category 11A: Standard Inside Stateroom
• Category 5B/5C: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 11A/11B: Standard Inside Stateroom
• Category 5C: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 11B: Standard Inside Stateroom
• Deck 4 : Restaurants, Lounges, Theater
• Deck 3 : Restaurants, Lounges
• Category 9B/9C: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
• Category 10B/10C: Deluxe Inside Stateroom
• Category 11C: Standard Inside Stateroom
• Category 9D: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
• Category 10C: Deluxe Inside Stateroom

Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

• Decks 13-14 : Recreation, Lounges
• Category V: Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 4A: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 5A/5E: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 8B: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom
• Category 4B: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 5B/5E: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 8C: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom
• Category 9A/9C/9D: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
• Category 4C: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 5C/5E: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 6B: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 4D: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 5D/5E: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Category 8A/8D: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom
• Category 9A/9D: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
• Category 4E: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• Deck 4 : Restaurants, Theaters, Lounges
• Deck 3 : Restaurants, Theaters, Lounges
• Category 9B: Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms
• Category 11C: Standard Inside Staterooms
• Deck 1 : Tender Lobby

Choosing Your Stateroom Category

So now that you know the difference between the rooms, how do you choose one?  Here’s what you need to consider:

• How many people are in your party?  (This will help determine which staterooms you will fit in)
• Do you want a view of the ocean or a private balcony?
• Would you like concierge level service on your cruise?
• Which deck would you prefer to be on?
• Do you prefer to be aft, midship, or forward?  Do you prefer to  be on the port or starboard side of the ship?
• Are you interested in any special room features, such as a Navigator’s Verandah or an oversized verandah?
• Are you willing to book a room with a partial view or a whitewall verandah?
• Do you prefer to be near the elevators/stairs or further away from them?

These questions will help you narrow down your search.  Of course, the easiest way to find the perfect stateroom category for your family is to discuss your desires with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner such as Ears of Experience .  We can help you navigate your options and find the staterooms that will best fit your plans and budget.

As I’ve mentioned before, our services are 100% free for clients booking a Disney Cruise and we provide concierge planning services throughout the entire process.  What a great way to start feeling relaxed before your trip even begins, right?

Ready to book your cruise?  Fill out my quote form and I’ll be in touch to discuss your plans for your dream Disney vacation!

Get a Free Quote on a Disney Cruise Line Vacation!

I hope this has cleared up some of the confusion about Disney Cruise Line stateroom categories.  If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email at [email protected] or leave them in the comments below.

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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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Set Sail in Style: The Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Staterooms

Jill Robbins

Suppose you’re considering a Disney Cruise for your next family vacation. In that case, you’ve probably clicked around a bit on Disney Cruise Line’s website to find the perfect ship and route that aligns with when you want to go on the ultimate Disney vacation.

Perhaps you’ve made it to stateroom selection, and now you’re stuck. What to choose? Choices can be intimidating and confusing, especially when you’re making decisions about high-dollar vacations, and yes, Disney Cruises are among the most expensive cruise vacations out there. How do you decide what’s the best stateroom – or staterooms – for your travel party? Do you go cheap and put the savings into another part of your vacation, or do you play that YOLO card and splurge on the most expensive?

Only you can decide how much money you’re willing to part with, but hopefully, I can make the decision-making process a little easier by breaking down the different Disney Cruise staterooms.

I’ve sailed on four of the five Disney Cruise Line vessels : The Disney Magic , the Disney Wonder , the Disney Dream , and the new  Disney Wish . My family is booked on the Disney Fantasy  for spring break 2024, bringing us to what’s known in Disney Cruise Line circles as a Grand Slam.

We’ve booked a variety of cabins, from the least expensive inside stateroom to a concierge 1-bedroom suite. I prefer concierge – because of course I do – but our budget doesn’t allow us to drop that kind of money every time we go on a cruise. I’ve found something to love about all the Disney Cruise Line staterooms we’ve stayed in, so let’s take a dive into the different room types.

About the 10 Different Categories of Staterooms

Disney uses numeric categories to classify their staterooms. It can be confusing for newbies who read cruise stateroom reviews to try and decipher what “Category 1A or Category 7 means. I’ll provide a brief key below for reference:

• 1A – Royal Suite
• 1B – Concierge 2-bedroom Suite With Verandah
• 2A or 2B (there’s some variation between ships) – Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite With Verandah
• 3A – Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah
• 4 – Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
• 5 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah
• 6 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah (Undersized, Obstructed View, or White Wall)
• 7 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Navigator’s Verandah
• 8- Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom
• 9 – Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
• 10 – Deluxe Inside Stateroom
• 11 – Standard Inside Staterooms

Essentially, the lower the category number, the more expensive the stateroom. When you’re on the Disney Cruise website browsing rooms, you’ll see the square footage listed, which includes the bathroom space as well as the verandah.

Concierge Rooms

Concierge rooms are not only nicer, more spacious rooms with more amenities but there are also extended services that go along with the extra room. Concierge services include shoreside services, such as assistance with booking shore excursions and onboard activities. Concierge guests also get an early booking window to get their first pick of activities and coveted extras like cabanas at Castaway Cay.

Concierge guests also get access to the ship’s Concierge Lounge. Lounge perks include private sundecks, near round-the-clock access to nibbles, bottled sodas, bottled water, juices, and specialty coffees, and an open bar in the evenings.

Concierge Royal Suite

Each ship has at least one Royal Suite. These luxe accommodations sleep six and have separate living areas and dining areas, and private hot tubs. The newest Royal Suites on the Disney Wish  are Sleeping Beauty-themed. If you want the highest of high-end and are prepared to pay the price, these suites are the ultimate experience on board a Disney Cruise.

I recommend booking with a travel agent who can help you navigate the availability of these suites. Since they’re in limited numbers, they tend to book up fast, so if you’ve got your heart set on staying in a Royal Suite, a travel agent has a better view of availability across the fleet.

One and Two-Bedroom Suites

These suites offer space to spread out at a more affordable price than the Royal Suite, although affordable is a relative term when it comes to concierge staterooms.

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My family and I stayed in a one-bedroom suite on the Disney Dream,  and we enjoyed the extra space and privacy. The king-sized bed had pocket doors that separated our sleeping space from the rest of the room, and we had two full baths, one with an oversized bathtub. Our kids slept on a pullout couch and a Murphy bed in the living room.

Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah

The Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah is the least expensive concierge room. The room is very similar to a non-concierge oceanview stateroom with a verandah and is essentially a category 4 or 5 stateroom with concierge room decor and amenities and access to concierge services, such as the lounge and pre-arrival assistance. If you want the white glove VIP service but don’t need a bunch of extra room, this is the way to go.

Oceanview Staterooms

If you want to see the water from your stateroom, Oceanview is the stateroom for you. There are several categories to choose from here. The big decision to make is whether or not you want a balcony, AKA verandah. If you decide to go with a verandah, there are some nuances regarding views so if unobstructed ocean views are a must, make sure you’re reading carefully when you book or specifying exactly what you want when you talk to your travel agent.

Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms and Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom

When it comes to Disney Cruise Line staterooms, the word “family” is going to mean a larger room that sleeps more people.

Think of the oceanview as the middle-of-the-road choice between a room with a verandah and an inside room. The rooms have porthole windows where you can see outside and get that natural light. The oceanview stateroom is more money than the inside staterooms but not as costly as the verandah or concierge rooms, so, if you want to land somewhere between those two options, this can be a good choice.

The oceanview stateroom may also be a good compromise for parents of young children. Sometimes parents have the worry that their little ones are going to try and climb the balcony and fall overboard, so the oceanview sans balcony eliminates that situation.

The verandah staterooms do have high locks on the doors to the balcony, though, so it’s easy for parents to manage, safety-wise.

The balconies are about 45 square feet – not huge, but large enough for three to four people to comfortably stand on to look out. There are two chairs and a small table, quite comfortable to sit in and enjoy a drink or your morning coffee.

Oceanview Staterooms With Verandah

As you can see from the list above, there are many variations and multiple categories listed for rooms with a private verandah. The difference between the verandahs in Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah and Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah is going to be the size of the stateroom and the number of people it can sleep, five versus four people. Categories 4 and 5 have the same type of unobstructed verandah.

When you get into categories 6, 7, and 8 on Disney Cruise ships, you get smaller verandahs, potential obstructions, or a white wall verandah. Most of the verandahs are acrylic, where you can see ocean views even while seated. A Navigator’s Verandah is a mostly enclosed verandah that has a large, circular hole for viewing. The smaller or obstructed view verandahs will be priced lower than categories 4 and 5. The differences are very minor, so if you have an opportunity to save or your selection of verandah rooms is limited, consider how much time you’ll spend on the verandah and decide from there.

Inside Staterooms

Inside staterooms are the cheapest staterooms. Depending on availability, you’ll be able to choose from a standard inside stateroom and a deluxe inside stateroom.

Inside staterooms are exactly that – inside. There’s no porthole window or balcony to let in the natural light or ocean breezes.

Deluxe Inside Stateroom Vs. Standard Inside Stateroom

The big difference between standard and deluxe is that the deluxe has a split bathroom. The split bathroom means a toilet and vanity separate from the shower and second sink. It’s a great feature and allows someone to be in the shower without holding someone up if they need to use the toilet. The extra square footage in the deluxe – about 50 feet – is all the split bathroom.

We stayed in a deluxe inside stateroom on the Disney Magic . We initially booked the standard inside stateroom, but Disney upgraded us shortly before we left for the port, and we appreciated the extra space in the bathroom. Otherwise, I thought the inside cabin was just fine. I thought I would miss the verandah but didn’t. The dark cabin was great for sleeping. Also, many of the inside staterooms are on the lower decks. When we were in an inside stateroom on Deck 2, catching the stairs and bypassing the crowded elevators was easy.

Inside staterooms on the Disney Fantasy  and Disney Dream have a virtual porthole, which is a digital screen that shows real-time views of the ship’s exterior with the occasional visit from a Disney character. You can turn off the virtual porthole if you choose.

Standard In-Room Amenities

The Inside and Oceanview staterooms are all very similar, and the main differences between the stateroom categories are verandahs and split bathrooms versus single bathrooms. Regarding the available beds and storage space, there’s not much difference between non-concierge rooms.

The rooms typically sleep four, with a few sleeping five, so larger families or groups may want to consider adjoining cabins if not comfortable splitting up. When you enter the room, you’ll see a queen bed, a couch, a coffee table, and a combination desk/storage unit. There’s a curtain divider guests can use to close the bed off from the rest of the stateroom.

The couch converts into a bed, and there’s an additional bed housed in the ceiling. The stateroom attendant will convert the couch into a bed and handle the pull-down bed during nightly turndown service. Although the quarters are pretty close, this setup does well for a family of four, with the kids sleeping on the bunk beds and the parents sleeping on the queen bed. The curtain provides a small amount of privacy.

Staterooms have a small flatscreen TV that’s mounted on a swivel so they can be positioned to be seen from the bed or the couch. Although no one goes on a cruise to watch TV, there are a variety of channels that include information about the ship’s route and activities as well as Disney programming and news.

Bathroom Amenities

In addition to towels and soap, standard DCL bathroom amenities include shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, lotion, and soap. Concierge staterooms have elevated toiletries. The Disney Wish  provides bathrobes as part of the standard stateroom amenities but on the other ships, they’re only for concierge guests.

Storage Space

Storage space in a Disney Cruise Line stateroom is adequate but tight. If you have four people in a cabin, storage space is more at a premium, but unless you’re big over-packers, everyone has enough space to store their belongings.

There’s a bit of closet space – if you have a lot of hanging garments, I recommend travel hangers – and storage cubbies and drawers in the bathroom and the main part of the cabin. The under-bed area has room for suitcase storage.

Best Advice When Choosing Staterooms

Budget is going to be most people’s driving factor when choosing a stateroom. Depending on the length of the cruise, there’s usually a several thousand dollar difference between an inside stateroom and the cheapest concierge stateroom.

Cruise ships are so filled with activities and other things to do, and guests aren’t meant to spend a ton of time in their stateroom, so don’t think you’ll be shortchanging your experience if you book an inside stateroom. If you have a larger budget and prioritize that extra level of elevated service, concierge is a fun splurge.

I also recommend you look at a deck plan before you lock in a stateroom to see where you’ll be in relation to everything else on the ship. If your cabin is directly below the sun deck, you might be woken early by the sounds of the deck crew setting up the chairs for the day. If your cabin is near the elevators, you might hear lots of foot traffic, although the upside is that being near the elevators means it’s faster and easier to get around the ship.

Midship staterooms on a high deck are generally the most stable, so this might be a necessary choice if you’re prone to seasickness.

Travel Agents Can Be Excellent Advisors

When it comes to choosing a stateroom, a travel agent can be a great resource, especially if you’re a first-time cruiser. They’re familiar with the ships, deck plans, and what the passengers want and need, even when the passengers may not fully know.

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10 Things You May Want to Know About Disney Cruise Staterooms

Are you wondering what your stateroom will be like on your Disney cruise ?  What does it have, what does it not have?  I am here to help!  Here’s 10 things you may want to know.

3. Bathrooms – Maybe even more important than beds! And I have more good news. The bathrooms are great! They’re small (small rooms remember), but they’re great. On all ships, with the exception of accessible staterooms and category 8A’s on the Dream and Fantasy, everything in categories 4- 10 have split bathrooms. Split bathrooms are genius! A split bathroom means there essentially two bathrooms which is so helpful with multiple people getting ready. One has a sink and toilet, and the other has a sink and tub/shower. You heard me bath loving people, Disney has a tub in their bathrooms. On most other lines, you’ll have to get to the suites before a tub is an option. In categories 8D, 8C, 8B, 4 and V on the Dream and Fantasy, there are actually round tubs! With rainfall shower heads! The V on the Magic and Wonder, and R, S and T on all ships have a whole ‘nother level of bathrooms and tubs. The tub in the 1-bedroom suites on the Dream and Fantasy is more like a small pool.

5. Storage – For a small room, it’s surprising how much storage there is! As I mentioned above, there is a lot of space under the bed for suitcases. Then there are two closets with some built in shelves, and a set of drawers and a shelf next to the closet. There are small end table type shelves with small drawers next to the bed. There’s also some space under the desk, as well as steamer trunks in some rooms on the Wonder (though these seem to be disappearing) and a nice dresser where steamer trunks used to be in some rooms. The Dream and Fantasy also have coffee tables that open up for even more storage! And finally there’s a desk with drawers and some cabinets over that. As with some of the other items, concierge rooms have even more storage space than normal rooms.

7. Desk – You’d probably like to know what is in your desk too! There are actually some handy things. There are hair dryers in the drawers so you don’t have to bring your own! For anyone that hates the vacuum cleaner type hairdryers in the bathrooms on the Magic and Wonder, they now also have hairdryers in the desk. In one of the drawers you’ll also find stationary, postcards, a pen, and room service menus. The room service menu is hidden rather well inside the large Disney Cruise Line book. The room service menu for breakfast foods is also in the drawer, but it’s printed on some paper door hangers. If you would like room service breakfast any night but the last night, you use this order form and hang it outside your door the night before. On top of the desk you will also find your Wave Phones if you use them. Underneath one side of the desk you will also find a small refrigerator.

9. Television – There are nice televisions in all the rooms, on all the ships. Some of the concierge rooms have three! They are all similar, but they are different based on which ship you are on. On the Magic and Wonder there are several channels, a few of which have Disney movies and new(ish) releases playing all day long. There’s also a view from the bridge, and an information channel showing where you’ve been, where you’re going, what’s the weather, etc. You’ll also find some popular network channels like ESPN, CNN, the Disney Channel and ABC when they are available. On the Dream and Fantasy, the TV’s have more features added, like an excellent selection of On-Demand Movies. There’s a channel with just about every Disney or Pixar animated movie ever made, a channel with new releases (I may or may not have watched Jurassic World through about 6 times in October onboard the Dream) and a channel of classics. The beauty of On Demand is that you can start and stop the movies every time you’re in the room. I don’t think we’re doing it right if we don’t have a Disney movie (Jurassic World totally counted) playing at all times when we are in our room and awake. You can also view your bill on your TV on the Dream and Fantasy, although it’s glitchy at times.

What did I forget? Is there anything else you’d like to know about your stateroom?

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.

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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].

15 thoughts on “ 10 Things You May Want to Know About Disney Cruise Staterooms ”

Hi I’m taking my adult autistic daughter on a Disney Cruise soon and wondering what kind of room is the accessibility room

Accessible rooms are booked on the Disney Fantasy cruise we want to go on to celebrate a big 50th anniversary with grandchildren, etc. Are there any grab bars in the bathrooms? Especially the shower/ tubs? Do the tubs have a side on them big enough to sit then swivel into the tub? Is there a lip on the entrance to the bathroom someone could trip on? Thanks for the help.

That’s a wonderful celebration, congratulations! We did the same with my parents on the Fantasy. There are not any grab bars in the standard rooms. The side on the tub is fairly standard size, so not very big. The sides of the tubs in the staterooms with a round tub is a little wider! That would be easier to get in, but it’s not a huge side. There is a lip to get into the bathroom that you could trip on if you weren’t expecting it. One bedrooms have a huge tub with no lip to get into the bathroom if that was doable for you!

What are the dimensions of the shower/bath? We are a tall (6’4) family of 3 and my spouse has a very large shoulder width. This is our first cruise and we are thinking about a room with verandah for the extra square footage.

I don’t know the exact dimensions, but they are not huge. Having said that, they are bigger than any other standard shower on any other cruise line I’ve been on. The shower width would be big enough for most people!

A category 4D and up would give you a round tub. It’s not a huge tub, but it would give you much more shoulder room for the shower!

What is the length of the sofa bed (ie: how tall can someone be before hitting their head on the arm)?

They are fairly close to standard twin size mattress length! The couch arms would be at either end making it feel a little smaller.

Actually, my growing teenager stretched out, and slept on it without any problems…I’m thinking it may even be an extra long twin?

Good to know, Tia!

We are sailing on the Dream in June and have a Category 5a stateroom. No coffee maker in the stateroom, right? What is the best way to get my early morning caffeine?

That is correct, Julie, no coffee makers. Order it from room service! You could order it the night before (most people report it stays hot in the carafe they deliver it in), or have it delivered the next morning. Order it the night before with the breakfast cards in the drawer. You can pick a time (within 30 minutes) you would like it delivered. If you would like specialty coffees, you could also venture up on deck to the Cove Cafe, but that will cost a little bit.

Category 11 inside standard staterooms do NOT have a split bathroom.

You are correct, Tammi! That was a typo that I will now fix. Thank you! 🙂

I always find there are a lack of shelves. I bring a folding set of shoe shelves that I can hang in the closet. And a pop up laundry basket is really helpful for keeping your room tidy.

That’s a good tip, Michelle! I bring a pop-up laundry hamper myself!

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I've stayed in 3 types of rooms on cruises, and the cheapest was never worth it. Here's what to book instead.

• I'm a frequent cruise traveler who's stayed in a variety of onboard accommodations.
• The least expensive rooms have no view and are usually cramped, especially if shared by a family.
• Splurging on a higher-category cabin on my last cruise was the best decision I made.

Automatically booking the cheapest room on a cruise ship without doing proper research first can ruin a trip. 

As someone who's been going on cruises for over 10 years, I've learned that the price tag for these vacations can vary based on a number of factors — from cruise line to trip duration to room category.

Staying in the most standard-level cabin seems like an obvious way to keep costs down. But after trying out three different room categories, both with and without my kids, I've found that a ship's least expensive option is almost never worth it.

Based on my experience in three different cruise-room categories, here are the ones I recommend skipping and the ones I recommend splurging on.

Interior staterooms are limited in space and privacy

The standard (and least expensive) room on any cruise ship is typically called an inside or interior stateroom.

These cabins often sleep three to four people and are located in the middle of the ship, with no exterior view of the vessel's surroundings. 

I've stayed in interior staterooms on a Carnival Cruise Line ship and a Disney Cruise Line ship . Aside from different decor styles and a few small touches, this room category is fairly standard across the board. 

When I'm on a cruise, I like to wake up and open my curtains to look at the ocean or the port where the ship is docked , which isn't an option in these inward-looking cabins.

Apart from having no view, interior staterooms are very small. The exact square footage varies but, for reference, the Disn ey Fantasy cruise ship's interior stateroom is 169 square feet and a Royal Caribbean ship's version is around the same size at 164 square feet .

To put those numbers into perspective, standard hotel rooms in the US are, on average, around 330 square feet , almost double the size of the entry-level cruise accommodation.

I want to be able to maneuver around without tripping over luggage, accent furniture, or my own family members. And because of the lack of space in interior staterooms, that's a challenge.

This category is definitely the most economical option, making it ideal for travelers on a budget .

However, if families, especially ones traveling with teens, can swing an alternative, they should steer clear of cramming into an interior stateroom and opt for a category with more space and privacy.

Ocean-view staterooms provide slightly more space but can still feel cramped

The next category up is usually an ocean-view stateroom.

With an outward-facing window, ocean-view staterooms are a solid mid-tier option for travelers who want more space than an interior stateroom offers but don't want to spend extra for a balcony room.

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 .

Many of these accommodations fit up to five people. If you have more than four family members (yes, infants who are six months and older are part of the headcount), making the jump from an interior stateroom to an ocean-view stateroom is absolutely worth the extra money.

Some cruise lines sell ocean-view rooms as the entry-level category for families of five or more travelers , simply because many interior staterooms can only accommodate a maximum of four guests.

My top pick is balcony staterooms, which offer privacy and plenty of space 

Balcony staterooms, also known as veranda staterooms, are usually the largest accommodation option you can get without concierge service or extras.

I recommend this category to all travelers setting sail in the future for one reason: the private balcony.

You can open your curtains and enjoy the sights outside, similar to the experience of staying in an ocean-view stateroom. But in this room type, you can step out onto a balcony and take in the sounds and smells, too. 

The rooms' sizes and capacities depend on the ship, but balcony staterooms are usually larger than ocean-view staterooms and tend to sleep up to five guests . Even if the rooms' living spaces aren't substantially bigger, they have the added space of the veranda. 

Including the terrace, balcony staterooms on the Disney Fantasy are 246 square feet and are between 214 square feet to 279 square feet on Princess Cruises' fleet.

When my family stayed in a balcony stateroom on a seven-night cruise, we made great use of the outdoor space. On a shorter cruise, where the balcony itself might not get as much use, I would still book this category for my family.

The upgrade was completely worth the price increase, especially because we were traveling with two sets of grandparents .

To make the most of the balcony staterooms, we even turned our individual verandas into one large terrace by having our steward remove the partitions between rooms. 

This story was originally published on May 25, 2022, and most recently updated on February 5, 2024.

Protect Your Trip »

The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

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