disney magic cruise magic band

Guide to DisneyBand+ (Magicband+ on the Disney Cruise Line)

Posted on Published: 01/23/2024

If you’ve been to the Disney parks in the United States, you may already be familiar with the concept of the MagicBand. Now, the convenience of the MagicBand has come to the Disney Cruise Line. With the optional DisneyBand+, you can access your room, make purchases, and get magical surprises on this hands-free, wearable device.

Continue reading to learn more about the DisneyBand+, and determine whether you need a new DisneyBand.

While MagicBands have been around for a while, the DisneyBand+ (the Disney Cruise Line version of the Magicband) is relatively new. It’s currently available on sailings on the Disney Magic, the Disney Wish, the Disney Dream, and the Disney Fantasy.

If you aren’t familiar, the DisneyBand+ is a waterproof wristband that is adjustable to fit almost all guests. It can be easily removed, but you can also swim and shower with it if you’d like.

Do you need a DisneyBand+?

You may be wondering if you need a DisneyBand+. For some cruise lines, like Virgin Voyages, a wearable device is needed and is provided at no cost. The DisneyBand, however, is different. It’s offered at an additional cost and is not needed. You can still use your Key to the World card to make purchases and access your room.

If you’ve been on a Disney Cruise before with kids, you are probably familiar with the Disney Oceaneer bands that are provided to kids entering the kids’ clubs. These bands are similar to the MagicBand+ but don’t have all of the features. The Disney Oceaneer band is given to guests at no cost but must be returned at the end of your sailing or you’ll be charged a fee for them.

Is a DisneyBand+ Worth it?

The number one question is whether or not a DisneyBand+ is worth it. We’ll explain more of the features below, but in our experience, it really wasn’t worth it. The functionality is a little limited, and the Key to the World card serves the same purpose. The magical touches – when the band lights up during parts of your voyage – were fun to experience in the beginning but were eventually not as exciting.

What does a DisneyBand+ do?

So, what exactly does a DisneyBand+ do? Here are some of the features:

• You can use it to board the ship upon arrival on embarkation day
• The DisneyBand+ will act as your room key and give you stateroom access in an easy, hands-free manner
• The DisneyBand+ can be used to make purchases to your Disney Cruise Line account. In some cases, we were asked to remove the band to make the purchase. You need to have a credit card or other payment method set up on your account.
• The DisneyBand+ can be used in place of the Oceaneer band at Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Labs, so your child won’t need to wear two bands
• The DisneyBand+ lights up during certain times on the ship, including in restaurants, during the fireworks, etc.
• Your band will be scanned by the onboard photographers when taking photos and will connect to your account.

Even if you have a DisneyBand+, you will still receive a Key to the World card. It will be located outside of your stateroom door when you first arrive. If you are a Castaway Club member , you’ll also get a complimentary lanyard so you can wear your key card around your neck.

What does a Disneyband + not do?

Wondering if there’s anything the Disneyband+ doesn’t do? While it does offer almost all of the features of the original Key to the World card, it cannot be used to leave or return to the ship at foreign cruise ports of call. You will still need to scan your Key to the World card when leaving and returning to the ship.

On some of the ships, you’ll also need your Key to the World card inserted in the slot to operate the lights in your stateroom.

How to get a DisneyBand+

Are you ready to get a DisneyBand+? You can purchase them 45 days in advance of your sailing if your sailing is eligible. They will be shipped directly to your home and should be connected to your account. You can get the Disney Cruise Line limited bands by purchasing this way.

These DisneyBands will also be personalized with your first name on the inside of the band, on the back of the face. Note that you will need to purchase bands for your whole party when buying them online in advance.

A limited selection of DisneyBand+ is available for purchase onboard the Disney Cruise Line ships. During my sailing, there were only a couple of styles, and the ones we had ordered in advance were not available. So, if you have a specific style you want, you should order them in advance.

Already have MagicBand+ bands from a theme park vacation? These can be used on the Disney Cruise Line. Make sure they are connected to your account if you want to use them right away.

How to set up and use the DisneyBand+?

If you order the DisneyBand+ from Disney Cruise Line, the only thing you should need to do in advance is to charge them. They should be connected to your account.

On our sailing, the cast member who checked us in got an error message when trying to activate our bands. Therefore, we had to go to guest services once onboard to fix the issue. It only took a few minutes but it was annoying to have to go through this extra step after purchasing the bands.

Using Your Band Past Your Disney Cruise

Once your cruise is over, you can still use your DisneyBand+ on visits to the theme parks. At Walt Disney World, you can use it at the theme parks and the Disney resort hotels. In addition, MagicBands are also being used at Disneyland Resort in California.

Battery on the DisneyBand+

Unlike the original MagicBand that launched at the Walt Disney World Resort, the DisneyBand+ (like the MagicBand+) has a rechargeable battery. The bands do come with a USB charger, but you’ll want to make sure you pack them if you’ve purchased them in advance.

We charged our bands each night of our Disney cruise vacation. While some of the functionality will work when the battery is depleted, the band won’t light up or interact with the ship. You can connect the band to your Disney Cruise Line Navigator app through Bluetooth, and it will show you the battery level.

So, why do we feel the band isn’t necessarily worth it as a separate purchase?

• We were sometimes asked to take the band off for purchases, making it easier to use the card
• Our bands weren’t able to connect right away
• You can’t use the bands for exiting or entering the ship at foreign ports
• The bands are expensive and aren’t entirely necessary

But, if there’s a style you love, or will use the bands for an upcoming Disneyland or Walt Disney World vacation, then you may find the DisneyBand+ to be a worthwhile purchase for your upcoming sailing.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

DisneyBand+ on Disney Cruise Line Info & FAQ

Disney Cruise Line has announced the release of the DisneyBand+ wearable technology in Summer 2023 for DCL’s 25th Anniversary. This post covers everything you need to know about this interactive enhancement.

For starters, this is the MagicBand+ by a different name. That’s really the key thing to know, and DCL isn’t pretending otherwise, with the first line in the press release being that “the popular MagicBand+ technology used at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort will start to make its way to Disney Cruise Line, beginning with a preview opportunity on select Disney Wish sailings before it officially debuts. At Disney Cruise Line, we are calling it DisneyBand+.”

With DisneyBand+, you’ll be able to unlock the hands-free conveniences of wearable technology on the high seas for the first time on a Disney cruise. With three Disney Cruise Line-exclusive designs from which to choose, DisneyBand+ will be a fun accessory for your Disney cruise vacation.

Although unconfirmed, what we’ve heard is that this rebranding is occurring in international markets at the behest of Disney Legal. What’s unclear is whether this is because Disney cannot use the term MagicBand in international markets, or because they cannot protect the mark in international markets.

Although that might sound like a distinction without a difference, they’re definitely not the same. I have no clue one way or the other, and am not inclined to do the research to find out. My suspicion is that it’s the latter, as Disney Legal’s desire to err on the side of caution has resulted in a lot of (unnecessary or downright counterproductive, if you ask me) changes to naming convention. But I digress.

As far as features go, the DisneyBand+ will make unlocking your stateroom door, charging a sweet treat or a souvenir to your payment card on your stateroom folio as easy as tapping your wrist. Your DisneyBand+ is also “adventure-proof,” which means that you can wear it while you cool off at the pool, go snorkeling at Castaway Cay, or take a plunge on AquaMouse!

Even the littlest explorers can experience the magic of DisneyBand+. Children ages 3 and up can also use their bands in lieu of the Oceaneer Club Band to access kids’ clubs including Disney’s Oceaneer Club while onboard and Scuttle’s Cove at Castaway Cay.

Whether you’re meeting a favorite Disney character or striking a pose in front of the iconic Disney Cruise Line red funnel, onboard photographers around the ship are ready to capture your favorite vacation memories. With one tap, you can easily link your photos to your stateroom making it easy to view and purchase photos during your cruise.

Wearing your DisneyBand+ will allow you to discover enchanting surprises throughout your cruise, so keep your eyes peeled for extra moments of magic. Plus, it is rechargeable; this makes a great reusable accessory for your future Disney vacation experiences, including Disney cruises and visits to the parks & resorts.

Not to put a damper on anyone’s excitement about the DisneyBand+ aboard Disney Cruise Line, but you might consider reading our brutally honest MagicBand+ Review: Good, Bad & Ugly . From our perspective, the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge minigame is essentially the  selling point of the MagicBand+ right now…and that will not exist aboard DCL. Almost everything else about the “Plus” underwhelms or is inconvenient.

If you’re on the fence about DisneyBand Plus, that review should help you determine whether it’s for you. Conversely, if you’re incredibly excited about the DisneyBand+ coming to DCL and plan on ordering multiple for everyone in your family, you might not  want to read that. Sometimes ignorance really is bliss. 😉

With that out of the way, let’s turn to frequently asked questions about the DisneyBand Plus, which are a mix of ones provided by Disney Cruise Line and ones that readers have asked us (and we’ve answered) about the MagicBand Plus…

What is DisneyBand+?

DisneyBand+ is a waterproof wristband designed to make certain parts of your vacation easier. From boarding the ship on embarkation day to accessing your stateroom, paying for onboard items with a valid payment card and more, DisneyBand+ brings convenience—and a bit of magic—to your Disney Cruise Line sailing.

Can I use my MagicBand+ on board Disney Cruise Line ships?

Your Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort MagicBand+ can be used as a DisneyBand+ during select Disney Cruise Line sailings. Following the preview that is taking place on the Disney Wish, DisneyBand+ will begin to make its way to select sailings aboard other Disney Cruise Line ships.

Can I use my DisneyBand+ at Disney theme parks around the world?

Also yes. DisneyBand+ for Disney Cruise Line can be used at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Resort.

Again, the DisneyBand+ is the exact same technology and underlying device as the MagicBand+, just with a different name. It’s like The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure versus Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid. Exact same ride on both coasts, but different verbose names for some unknown reason!

What are the base features of DisneyBand+ or MagicBand Plus?

MagicBand+ can do everything a MagicBand can do and more at Walt Disney World:

• Enter theme parks ( note: no theme parks at sea) 
• Tap into Lightning Lanes ( note: no Lightning Lanes at sea…yet!)
• Connect photos
• Unlock your Walt Disney World Resort hotel room door or Disney Cruise Line stateroom door
• Purchasing items at Walt Disney World or aboard Disney Cruise Line with a linked resort reservation and credit card

What are the unique features of DisneyBand+ or MagicBand Plus?

In addition to the above, MagicBand+ also offers:

• Haptic vibrations and light pulses that bring experiences to life
• Customizable light patterns after double tapping the center of the band
• Gesture recognition for interactivity at certain locations
• A rechargeable battery
• Exclusive experiences and mini-games

How much does a DisneyBand+ cost?

Solid bands cost $34.99, and themed designs cost $44.99, plus tax. That’s consistent with current pricing for MagicBand+ designs.

From there, costs could increase even further for limited edition or designer fashion styles. We wouldn’t be surprised to see a MagicBand+ that costs $75 by the end of the year.

How can I purchase a DisneyBand+?

DisneyBand+ will roll out on the Disney Wish and can be purchased in advance of your sailing or on board the ship. Rollout dates have not yet been announced, so check back for more details coming soon about when you can purchase. International guests may purchase at a merchandise shop on board.

Once DisneyBand+ has debuted on the Disney Wish, you can order a DisneyBand+ by visiting My Reservations between 11 and 45 days of your sail date, if your reservation is paid in full. If you would like to customize your DisneyBand+ with your name and an available color before your sailing, you must do so at least 11 days before your voyage, after reserving your stateroom. When you customize your DisneyBand+, the printed name will appear on the inside of the band.

Is there a pre-arrival discount for DisneyBand+ on Disney Cruise Line?

Yes! Order before you embark to save $10 off the onboard price of each band—and harness the power of wearable technology as you make your way aboard the ship.

As with purchases in general, pre-arrival orders currently available to US residents with a valid US address traveling on the Disney Wish, subject to availability. Orders must be placed at least 11 days prior to sail date. You can also purchase on board during your sailing or use your MagicBand+ from Walt Disney World Resort or the Disneyland Resort to unlock the power of DisneyBand+.

Pre-arrival DisneyBand+ discount offer is currently available only to US residents with a fully paid reservation on the Disney Wish. Order must be placed between 45 and 11 days of the sailing. Credit card will be charged when the order is shipped. DisneyBand+ orders cannot be cancelled, returned, refunded or exchanged—even if the Disney cruise reservation is cancelled.

Shipping is available to valid US addresses (including US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico) only; shipping is not available to PO Boxes, APO, FPO, DPO, United States ports, or international addresses. Pricing may vary. Designs subject to availability. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Offer is subject to restrictions and change without notice.

Is there a shipping charge if I choose to order DisneyBand+ before I arrive?

Shipping is included in the cost of the DisneyBand+ wearable. However, shipping of DisneyBand+ is only available to US residents with a valid US address.

When should I expect to receive my DisneyBand+ order in the mail?

The expected wait time for your DisneyBand+ is approximately 10 business days from the date of your order, unless otherwise noted. Please note: shipping of DisneyBand+ is only available to US residents with a valid US address. (All of these notes about US shipping are from Disney Cruise Line. I guess they want to make it  very clear  that international guests are not eligible for shipping!)

Can I purchase multiple DisneyBand+ devices? 

Do you really think Disney is going to turn down more merchandise sales?!

Officially, you can have multiple DisneyBands or cards linked to your Disney account, you can continue to use as many as your wrists and pockets can carry. However, getting multiple DisneyBands or cards does not give you multiple entitlements, such as additional park admission. Also, once a DisneyBand+ is linked to a person, it cannot be transferred to another person.

Unofficially, you cannot have an unlimited number of linked bands and also a working My Disney Experience account. I once had over 100 bands, room keys, and tickets attached to my account, and it got so bogged down that trying to do anything would cause the system to time out or crash. I had to have them manually removed from my account (deactivating them wasn’t good enough). Now I “only” have 43 and my account more or less works okay.

How long does the battery on a DisneyBand+ last?

Depending on an individual’s use of the band, the battery can last an estimated 1 to 3 days when fully charged. For optimal usage, it is recommended you charge your DisneyBand+ overnight.

In practice, playing interactive minigames is the biggest drain on the device; doing that for a few hours can alone deplete an entire battery. Most people won’t be doing that from start to finish for hours on end, so the above range is mostly accurate.

With that said, it’s highly recommended that you charge the device each night before use. Upon purchase or receipt of your band, it is recommended to charge it to high battery levels for the most optimal usage.

What is the difference between a Disney Oceaneer Band and a DisneyBand+?

A Disney Oceaneer Band is a bracelet provided for use on board the ship to children ages 12 and under, allowing them access in and out of Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab. An Oceaneer Band does not offer features such as stateroom access, photo linking or magical moments and must be returned at the end of your sailing.

Children who are 12 and under and registered for youth club activities can use their DisneyBand+ to access Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Disney’s Oceaneer Lab. It’s a good idea to charge the band beforehand, but we can also issue a Disney Oceaneer Band if the DisneyBand+ battery runs out of power during the fun. Please note: you must return your Disney Oceaneer Band at the end of your cruise to avoid being charged a fee.

Which phones are compatible with DisneyBand+?

DisneyBand+ can pair with most smart devices, including Android and Apple devices.

Can I reuse my DisneyBand+ the next time I sail with Disney Cruise Line?

Yes, but it is currently only available on board the Disney Wish. If you have a DisneyBand+ that you like and it is in working condition, you can continue to use it when you sail with us again on select ships and itineraries.

DisneyBand+ will roll out across the Disney Cruise Line fleet beginning with the Disney Wish. While rollout dates have not yet been announced, we invite you to check back for more details soon.

Can I still use my Key to the World card instead of a DisneyBand+?

Key to the World cards will continue to be issued and can be used as they are today, including to access your stateroom and charging food and merchandise purchases to the payment card on your stateroom folio. Your Key to the World and photo ID (for guests 18 and older), will still be required to debark and embark at Ports of Call.

Planning to set sail aboard one of the DCL ships? Read our comprehensive  Disney Cruise Line Guide   to prepare for your voyage, plus plan entertainment, activities & excursions, and learn what to expect from your Disney cruise! For personalized planning & recommendations,  click here to get a cruise quote from a no-fee Authorized Disney Vacation Planner . They can find you all of the current discounts, and help you plan the details of your cruise!

YOUR THOUGHTS

Have any questions about the DisneyBand+ that this FAQ did not answer? Other thoughts or points to address? Excited about the DisneyBand+ debuting aboard Disney Cruise Line? If you’ve already used it, what do you think of the MagicBand/DisneyBand Plus? Will you be purchasing these new interactive wearables when they go on sale for DCL guests? Do you agree or disagree with our assessment? Do you agree or disagree with our assessments? Any questions? Hearing feedback about your experiences is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

We’re booked on a Wish Cruise in November. Can confirm my MB+ all show up in my DCL account connected to the right family members. Those with OG MBs do not show up, and it won’t let me manually link any OG MBs. So for whatever tech reason, Disney has limited this to MB+ only on DCL. I may end up getting a precruise DB+ for one kid and will see if there’s any difference. I’ve heard rumors that DB+ have issues MB+ do not – but from Tom’s article I’m not sure how that is possible if they are the same tech?

Any idea if Apple Watches can be set up for use on the DCL ships for access to staterooms, etc. (like they can be in the parks), and used instead of a DisneyBand+?

I have heard that they won’t. It’s similar to Disneyland’s setup, which doesn’t work with Apple Watches either.

That would be an awkward tan line. Unless they have some with large die cutouts of Mickey. I guess that would be merch heaven to some. It would be awesome if you had a DCL section to your website. We went on the Dream about 5 years ago, when lanyards were in, and I was waaaaay out of my league cause every activity sold out in seconds. I simply didn’t realize I needed a strategic plan even for DCL.

“It would be awesome if you had a DCL section to your website.”

Sarah has done several cruises with her girlfriends and sister (on which I was not invited), so she has more expertise on this than me. I cover the aspects of DCL that interest me, but I just don’t have the same passion for cruising as I do for the parks, and I don’t want to phone-in coverage. Sarah, on the other hand, loves DCL and could write great DCL content…

Well now I’m just thinking about how much fun it would be to do Bounty Hunting on a cruise ship… (Clearly the right take from this article.)

I mean, they really should. That game would arguably be better suited for a ship, where you’re not outdoors and in the direct sunlight. Maybe it’s too difficult to translate to multiple levels?

We recently went on our first Disney cruise and I was surprised Magic Bands were not a thing. It seemed to me that a cruise would be the most logical place for them. I bought Magic Bands + for the family on our last trip to DW in November and would have loved to use them on the cruise, except for my wife’s band who lost it within the first 30 minutes at the park and we never found it.

pass for me. these seem totally unnecessary at sea. nothing a kttw card can’t do.

Agreed. Not paying for a fancy stateroom key, which is essentially all this is. If I could use one of my existing regular Magic Bands, I would, but I’m not buying anything else.

There has been some debate as to whether regular magicbands could be used. I know DCL said only magicband+. Since the cabin key readers use RFID, it seems reasonable to be able to use a regular magicband. However, someone pointed out that the Disneyland app will not allow you to link a regular magicband. Plus, it wouldn’t work in the park anyway, due to the way it was implemented. I tried to link a regular one to the Disneyland app, but it didn’t work. I don’t know if that’s because I don’t have tickets or an upcoming stay. Has anyone tried to link a regular one to Disneyland? If it’s not linkable, then DCL could do the same in their app. Thoughts?

I assume DCL is going to do exactly what Disneyland did, which is block out the linking of OG MagicBands in the app. There could be a tech-side reason for this, I have no clue, but my guess is that there’s also a desire to push the MB+ and “make” it a success. They’ve invested a lot of money in this endeavor and don’t want another tech-based flop.

On the plus side, a dead MB+ is basically just an OG MB, so it’s not like you actually need to keep the device charged. It’s just unfortunate for those of us who have accumulated dozens of MBs over the years.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Hands-free fun: Disney Cruise Line introducing wearable DisneyBand+ this summer

It's been 10 years since Disney changed the game in its theme parks by introducing MagicBands, which are roughly the size of an Apple Watch and allow you to tap into the park using your ticket, access a Lightning Lane, open your Disney resort room door and even charge a Mickey ice cream bar instead of digging out your credit card.

And just last year, the MagicBand got some new tricks with the introduction of a more interactive MagicBand+ . However, while MagicBands have been at Disney World for a decade, they haven't been used on board the Disney Cruise Line ships.

On Disney's ships, the way to pay for purchases and open your cabin door has been with a "Key to the World" card that many keep worn around their necks in a not-so-attractive plastic lanyard.

But things are about to get more magical at sea.

Wearable technology coming to Disney Cruise Line

Disney has shared that for the first time, DisneyBand+ is coming to Disney Cruise Line, as first announced on the Disney Parks Blog .

From what we can tell, these are MagicBands by another name and will debut first as a preview on Disney Wish this summer and later make their way on additional ships and sailings. This wearable DisneyBand+ can be used when getting on the ship, unlocking your cabin door, charging purchases, tapping to get your photos synced to your account by the ship photographers and more.

These DisneyBands+ will also work for the kiddos while they are in the kids clubs, which had previously utilized a special band that looked like a MagicBand but only tracked the location of the kids while they were within the Oceaneer Club and Lab and served as a way for them to scan in and out.

Related: 26 tips for sailing with Disney Cruise Line

How much will DisneyBands+ cost?

Once they go on sale, DisneyBands+ will be available for $34.99 for solid-color designs and $44.99 for themed designs, with a $10 discount if you order at least 11 days before embarkation if you are a U.S. resident. There will be exclusive designs available only to Disney Cruise Line guests.

Can you use a MagicBand+ on a Disney cruise instead of a DisneyBand+?

What we are potentially most excited about with this announcement is that you don't have to spend more to buy a cruise-specific DisneyBand+.

The MagicBand+ you already use at Disney World or Disneyland will work on the ship, too. And conversely, if you want some of the cruise-specific looks, then your DisneyBand+ will work in the parks. This is great news, given that the cost of the bands does add up when you start buying for the whole family.

Related: How to save money on a Disney Cruise

Bottom line

There's no question that MagicBand+ (and now, DisneyBand+) makes vacation easier, with virtually everything you need available with the tap of a wrist. Having them make their debut this summer on select Disney ships is welcome news -- and we certainly won't miss the omnipresent plastic lanyards that have appeared in countless family cruise photos.

This is just one small piece of the announcements from Disney Cruise Line this year, including:

• New highest Castaway Club tier for those with 25 sailings to celebrate its 25th year
• New island destination, Lighthouse Point, opening in the summer of 2024
• Disney Treasure reaches major construction milestone

Interactive DisneyBand+: MagicBand Tech Coming to Disney Cruise Line

If you’ve ever wished that opening your stateroom door on a Disney Cruise could be as easy as tapping your MagicBand during a stay at the Disney World resort, your wish is about to come true. Disney has announced that “DisneyBand+” will be making its way onto all of the fleet’s ships beginning this summer and fall. I’m sure you have questions! We have answers below …

What Can You Do With DisneyBand+?

You’ll be able to:

• Unlock your stateroom door
• Charge purchases made onboard and on Castaway Cay (and presumably on Lighthouse Point when it opens next year)
• Have PhotoPass photographers scan your band to automatically link photos to your account
• (For kids) use the DisneyBand+ as an Oceaneer Band to access the kids clubs
• Discover enchanting surprises and extra moments of magic throughout your cruise

Curious about that last one? Yeah, we are too … and we’ll update here as we have details. The bands are rechargeable (and will need a daily or every other day charge for full functionality). But based on what we know about MagicBands, we expect it’s likely that many of the non-interactive functions such as opening doors and charging purchases will work if the battery is dead.

The bands are also waterproof, and Disney advises that they are “adventure proof”.

What kind of MagicBand is DisneyBand+?

At Disney World, there is MagicBand and MagicBand+. MagicBands can do anything that your admission ticket can do, but MagicBand+ can do more. MagicBand+ has two-way interactivity with elements of the park and can be used to play games within the park.

It’s clear that DisneyBand+ is the same technology as MagicBand+, and the reason this matters is because although they are calling it DisneyBand+ on the ships, the bands themselves are MagicBand+. That means that you will be able to use your DisneyBand+ in Disneyland or Disney World , and MagicBand+ that you may have already purchased will work as a DisneyBand+ .

DisneyBand+ will still have a touch of DCL-only to it though. I’m sure you won’t be shocked when I tell you that there will be designs available exclusively to those with a Disney Cruise reservation.

How Much Will DisneyBand+ Cost? When Can I Get One?

Solid bands cost $34.99, and themed designs cost $44.99, plus tax. So it’s good news that if you already have a MagicBand+, you can use it on board should you choose to.

You can’t currently order a band in advance of your sailing, although that will change as rollout dates are announced for each of the ships. The first ship to use DisneyBand+ will be the Wish, where the band will be available this summer.

When bands are available for advance order, you’ll be able to take a $10 discount by purchasing in advance instead of buying them onboard. And of course, if you already have a MagicBand+, then you’ve got a DisneyBand+ … and your question is just whether the tech will be available on your cruise.

Are Key to the World Cards Going Away?

No, Key to the World Cards are not going away on Disney Cruises. A DisneyBand+ is an extra-cost, optional add-on. A Key to the World Card is free and will be issued when you get on board.

What do you think about DisneyBand+? Will you buy it? Let us know in the comments!

You May Also Like...

TouringPlans is pleased to welcome guest authors Brian and Samantha, The DCLDuo. Thomas Mazloum, President of Disney Signature Experiences, which oversees…

Guests who sail on the Disney Wish will be able to take part in a brand new interactive family-friendly experience called…

Disney Cruise Line announced today their itineraries for early 2024. Booking ahead can be a great way to save money and…

Disney Vacation Club members are invited to the member "First Wave" sailing on Disney Cruise Lines' newest ship, the Disney Treasure.…

• Disney World Annual Pass Sales to Resume on April 20
• Disneyland Cafe Daisy Review

Jennifer Heymont

Jennifer has a background in math and biology, so she ended up in Data Science where she gets to do both. She lives just north of Boston with her husband, kids, and assorted animal members of the family. Although it took three visits for the Disney bug to "take", she now really wishes she lived a lot closer to the Parks.

8 thoughts on “ Interactive DisneyBand+: MagicBand Tech Coming to Disney Cruise Line ”

Did I read the fine print correctly, only for ships leaving from US ports, and you have to pay for them? (any idea why the limitation? We’re doing a Rome/Greece cruise this summer)

End of the day, as a California resident, we loved the convenience of the free ‘bands we received for our DW trip in ’18 but even with DL slowly rolling them out, don’t see where we’d get 3×35$ of value out of this.

Hi R, I’m going to disclaim that my close reading interpretations are not supported by specific answers from the Walt Disney Company. That out of the way …

– Yes, you did see that it’s U.S. Ports only but my interpretation of that passage is that only U.S. ports will be equipped with tech where you can use it during the check-in process at the port. I don’t think the bands will be limited only to sailings that depart from U.S. ports. Think of it kind of like … when Magical Express was still a thing, you could tap in to your ME reservation with you MagicBand, but if you were renting a car you had to wait until you actually got to WDW property for the bands to have any functional use. (I hope that makes sense.)

– Yes, you have to pay for them. That’s one of the reasons I put so much emphasis on “it’s really a MagicBand+” in the article. Maybe it’s just my thrifty soul, but I imagine other people will find this a much more appealing thing if it’s able to be used more places. That said, I know other people in my family who will be like “Oh, they’re so convenient, I can’t imagine going to WDW without one anymore, it’s a $5K cruise what’s another $35?”, and I’m sure they’re not alone. One thing I think we’ll have to wait and see about is what the interactive elements are. If they’re really good? Then there’s a market (which could include even me) that will look at it as buying a game, that incidentally opens your door.

Not having to pull out my KTTW card for every photo is a huge plus for me. No more fumbling for my card to get into my room when my hands are full. I likely wouldn’t buy one just for DCL, but if it’s the same band for DCL and the parks I’m in.

Can you use the regular Magicband to open your door?

Hi Goofy, you can use a regular MagicBand to open your door at Disney World. You probably will not be able to use it on the ship. “Regular” MagicBands are a Disney World only thing; that’s the only place they do anything. So a regular MagicBand will almost certainly do absolutely nothing on a DCL ship. Only MagicBand+ can be used outside of Disney World.

I wonder about this. The reason that you can’t use regular magicbands at Disneyland is because their readers are barcode/QR code and wallet/bluetooth based. Magicband+ use bluetooth, but the old ones don’t. I haven’t seen the Wish, so I don’t know if the cabin key readers are different than the other ships. The other ships use RFID, which all magicbands use and the ticket scanners/LL points at Walt Disney World use. If the Wish cabins use RFID, then it may be possible to use regular magicbands, unless they do something in the linking or reading software to prevent it. I know it says that they are not usable, but I guess we will see.

Hi Sonia, I agree it’s a question, and importantly I think it’s central to whether or not the DisneyBand+ will work to open your door if the battery is dead. (If not, can you just imagine them installing tiny charging docks next to the door so you can get enough juice into your band to unlock your room and get in? Crazy idea, I know, but kind of amusing to think about.)

Anyway, I do really hope that they are using the RFID and not Bluetooth for door/purchasing activity on the ships, because it will definitely make a big difference in the convenience if you are still able to do the basics even if you forgot to charge last night. (I’m assuming they will, but like you I don’t know.) But I don’t think that they need to do something to actively prevent using regular MagicBands.

You have to link a MagicBand+ to MDE for it to work at Disney World. You link it to the Disneyland app to use it at Disneyland. And presumably you’ll link the DisneyBand to Disney Cruiseline Navigator in order for it to work on the ship. There’s no way to link a regular MagicBand in the Disneyland app – even if you couldn’t do anything with it once you got it hooked up, you can’t even get the connection in place. So unless Disney provides a mechanism for regular MagicBands to link to DCL Navigator (which they have no reason to do), you wouldn’t be able to use them on the ship, because those RFID readers aren’t communicating with MDE – they’re checking your ID against a different platform.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

Disney Treasure Exclusive DisneyBand+ Design Revealed

D isney Cruise Line announced that guests sailing on the Disney Treasure will be able to purchase an exclusive DisneyBand+ (MagicBand+) design.

Disney Treasure DisneyBand+ – $44.99

The Disney Treasure design is white and dark blue with aqua-blue wave designs. The Disney Treasure logo is on one side of the band. Artwork of the ship is on the puck.

The band is already available to view online for guests with early Disney Treasure sailings.

DisneyBand+ is Disney Cruise Line’s version of MagicBand+. The bands can be used to unlock staterooms, link photos, and debark the ship. They can be purchased in advance of a sailing or on the ship. There will be limited quantities of the Disney Treasure design.

The Disney Treasure recently left the Meyer Werft shipyard . It will set off on its maiden voyage in December. The ship is the same size and layout as the Disney Wish, which launched in 2022. Both ships have gross tonnage of 144,000 and 1,246 staterooms. The  last stateroom was installed on the Treasure in July.

The Disney Treasure will have the first  Haunted Mansion Parlor . A new Broadway-style show,  “Disney Tale of Moana,”  will debut. The Treasure will also have the new  Plaza de Coco, a “Coco”-themed restaurant . Check out our  everything we know about the Disney Treasure  post from earlier this year.

If you’re thinking of booking a cruise on one of Disney Cruise Line’s new ships, why not contact our official travel agent , Be Our Guest Vacations , and let them handle the entire booking process for you!

For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on  Twitter ,  Facebook , and  Instagram .

The post Disney Treasure Exclusive DisneyBand+ Design Revealed appeared first on WDW News Today .

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Plan Your Dream Trip To Disney!

10 Disney Magic Band Secrets to Know Before You Go

January 20, 2023 //  by  Brandi Lyons //   1 Comment

Are you looking for the best Disney Magic Band secrets and tips? Then look no further! We’ve used MagicBands A LOT, and we know great tips to make sure you’re getting the most out of your bands as well as your trip.

We want to help you decide whether Magic Bands are right for you and your family, and we want you to be sure you know everything that they do. Keep on reading to find out all about MagicBands, the new MagicBand+, and all the perks of having one as a Disney guest.

What are Magic Bands at Disney?

The original Disney Magic Bands launched in 2013, with a second version – the 2.0 – released in 2017. In 2022, the MagicBand+ was released with even more technological updates.

Disney Magic Bands are wearable pieces of technology that you can use during your Disney trips. They are essentially Disney bracelet passes. They are made of flexible plastic and are completely waterproof.

Inside of each band is an RFID chip that allows your band to interact with Disney technology, as well as it allows for the use of location services in the park.

The MagicBand 2.0 is a non-chargeable band, and they are less expensive than the newer MagicBand+.

The MagicBand+ is the newest version, and it is more interactive than any of the versions that came before it. They come with a charger – similar to a smartwatch – and have lots of interactive features for use in the parks (more about this later!).

Just a note: the MagicBand+ is the only accepted MagicBand at Disneyland. Both versions can be used at Walt Disney World.

How to Get Disney Magic Bands?

There are several ways to get Disney Magic Bands prior to your trip to Disney World or Disneyland.

Prior to your trip, if you are staying on Disney World property, you can customize and order your bands at least 11 days prior to your trip in order to have them arrive in time at your house.

If you order and customize them 6-10 days before your trip, you will be able to pick them up at the front desk upon arrival at your resort.

While in Disney World, you can buy many different types, colors, and both versions of Disney MagicBands at several shops on property. This is a great choice if you’re looking for a better assortment, or you want MagicBands specific to certain parks, seasons, or events.

If you’ve been to Disney World before, you can also reuse any MagicBand 2.0 or MagicBand+ that you’ve used before. You can check the battery of MagicBand 2.0 on the My Disney Experience app, and you can be sure your old ones work. Reusing previous MagicBands is a great way to save money, and another way to get more value from your bands as well.

And, of course, you can always purchase them before your trip at ShopDisney.com . Or even sometimes on Amazon.com.

How Much Do Disney Magic Bands Cost?

The Disney Magic Bands that are the version 2.0 start at $19.99 and can up in price from there. Specialty ones or limited edition ones can be $59.99 or more.

The newer MagicBand+ costs $34.99 for the plain colors, and the Disney MagicBand+ cost $44.99.

Are Magic Bands Free for Resort Guests?

Disney World no longer offers free Magic Bands for resort guests, but they do offer a discount program. There is a pre-arrival discount if you stay on Disney property. You can do this on the Disney website or through the My Disney Experience app.

If you choose a MagicBand 2.0, the discount for the pre-arrival program is anywhere from $10-$15 off per band for the people in your party.

There’s a $10 discount of select MagicBand+ for the pre-arrival program.

Annual Passholders for Disney World can also take advantage of the discount program, even if they don’t have a resort stay planned. The Disney Magic Band price for the Annual Passholders is the same for the pre-arrival discount as other resort guests. A passholder can order a Disney Magic Band 6 days prior to a theme park reservation, to receive the discount, and this discount can only be used once during the year of the annual pass.

Do Not Pack Magic Bands in Checked Luggage

If you are flying into Disney World or Disneyland, don’t pack your MagicBands in your checked luggage. You want to be sure that you are able to access your Magic Bands upon arrival. This will make it easier to be able to go straight to your room and open the door, or even go straight to the parks!

This could also create a lot of problems in case your luggage gets lost or misplaced. You don’t want to have to buy all new Disney Magic Bands and have to link everything to your account again.

Are MagicBands Worth It?

If you’re staying on Disney World property, then the answer is yes! Using your Disney Magic Band allows you to get into the parks, get into your resort room, make purchases of food and merchandise without a wallet and purse, and even more!

Having a Magic Band while in Disney makes it easier for those staying several days, for Annual Passholders, or those looking to travel light while in the parks.

Magic Bands are Customizable

There are several ways to customize your Disney Magic Bands, but the easiest way is to buy a color or design that you like.

You can also customize your Magic Band with stickers, nail polish, or skins that fit over the band. Skins are easy to find on Amazon or Etsy.

With the Disney MagicBand 2.0, you can pop out the middle puck – the section with the Mickey head on it – with a small screwdriver. You can then mix and match the pucks and bands, or even put the puck onto a holder. Disney sells both MagicBandits and MagicSliders that can be attached onto clothing, bags, or smartwatches. You can also find decorative sliders on Etsy as well.

Wear a “Keeper” for Added Safety

If you’re scared that you or your child may lose your Disney MagicBand, you can buy “keepers” or “locks” that help hold them on. These locks go around the arms of the band – where the snaps are – to help them from coming undone.

These are also known as “Bitbelts,” and can be purchased from Etsy or Amazon .

Magic Bands are One Size Fits All

Both the Disney Magic Bands 2.0 and MagicBand+ have an outer band and inner band. If you push the inner band away and swiftly pull it away, you’ll be left with a smaller band.

The smaller section is great for children and those with small wrists. This will make sure they fit all wrists more securely.

Using Your Magic Bands at Disney Parks

When it comes to Disney World especially, there are so many ways to use your Magic Bands at Disney Parks, and once you see all it does, you’ll be able to better decide whether buying one is essential for you. In order to use the Magic Bands at Disney, you will tap the puck – the middle with Mickey – onto Mickey head touchpoints around the parks, or on the pin pads at shops and restaurants.

Resort guests can use them to get into their resort room, access the pool at their resort, pay for purchases for food and merchandise while in the parks or at Disney Springs . Tapping your band to pay for something will charge it back to your resort room.

You can use them as your theme park tickets for all 4 Walt Disney World parks and the two water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. You’ll also use your Disney Magic Band to redeem Lightning Lanes and Individual Lightning Lanes while in the parks as well as to scan in for a virtual queue return time.

You will use your Magic Bands at Disney to tap in for dining reservations – especially those that are at resorts you’re not staying at.

Not only will you use your Disney Magic Bands to load photos onto your PhotoPass account after having your photo taken by a PhotoPass photographer or tapping to get a ride photo, but Disney also uses the RFID technology to get ride photos onto your account without having to tap.

The MagicBand+ uses haptics and lights in order to interact with the 50th anniversary statues at Disney World, and to interact with the nighttime shows as well.

In both Disney World and Disneyland, you can the MagicBand+ to play Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters in Galaxy’s Edge. This is a fun interactive game that sends you around Batuu, playing as a Bounty Hunter and collecting characters.

Unfortunately, Disneyland only uses the MagicBand+ and many of these uses aren’t applicable to Disneyland guests. MagicBands in general might be more practical for Disney World guests at this point.

Are Magic Bands Secure?

Using Magic Bands at Disney are very secure and safe, and you really don’t have to worry about them being misused in any way.

Magic Bands cannot be transferred to anyone else, so if lost, another person really cannot use it. In order to make a purchase with a Magic Band, you have to input the pin number that was created by the creator of the account. You also can’t get into the park with a Magic Band without scanning your finger for a biometric screening.

If you do lose your Disney Magic Band, you should report it as lost at Guest Relations. They can deactivate it, and then you’ll be able to get a new MagicBand and start all over.

If there are multiple people on your My Disney Experience account and are linked to your resort room, you can put a spending limit on the account so that no one goes overboard. This is great for families who want to give their children a little bit of freedom while on vacation but want to stay on a budget.

You can also make it so that only the adults on the account can charge purchases to the resort room as well. This keeps the money under your control and keeps kids from buying unnecessary things while in the parks.

One of the best security measures with the Disney Magic Band is how easy it is to use in the horrible chance that your child gets lost at Disney. Any Cast Member can scan the child’s band, and not only will they get their name and be able to make the child feel comfortable, but they will get the access to your phone number, email, and resort so that they can contact you immediately.

You Can Use Your Phone Instead of a Magic Band

If Disney Magic Bands aren’t for you or you aren’t staying on Disney property, then don’t worry! There are so many other ways to get in the parks. Using your phone might be just as easy as having a MagicBand.

If you have an iPhone, Apple Watch, or Google Pay-enabled Android phone, you can use the Disney MagicMobile Service. With this service, you can use your phone to enter the parks, connect PhotoPass photos to your account, gain access to virtual queues, charge purchases to your Disney resort room, check in for Lightning Lanes, and be able to use one device for an entire group.

If you’re using MagicMobile with an Apple device, you can even use “Express Mode” so that you don’t have to open My Disney Experience or unlock your phone to use the service.

To use the Disney MagicMobile Service, you do have to add all your tickets to My Disney Experience prior to theme park arrival and have activated the service.

You can also use your cell phone to unlock your Disney resort room, and you don’t have to use the MagicMobile Service in order to do that.

How to Set Up Your MagicBand+

We want you to be ready to use your Disney MagicBand+ before you need to scan into the parks, so here are the steps to be sure that you are ready and your MagicBand+ is in working order:

• Power on your band by pressing the button on the back, then tap your band onto your phone.
• you’ll be directed to either open the My Disney Experience app or to download it.
• Follow instructions in the app to link the MagicBand+ to your account, assign it to a guest, and pair it to your phone. You will then use the app to make sure it is charged, and the band software is up-to-date.
• link to your park tickets and reservations.

Just a note: you may have to charge your band and do a software update before your visit. Give yourself enough time before your park visit to do this!

Favorite Magic Band Designs

We know that there are so many cute options and colors for Disney Magic Bands, and it’s hard to choose one. You really can’t go wrong with fun designs, whether it’s a MagicBand 2.0 or MagicBand+. We have chosen a few of our current favorites and linked them for you to go shop!

Walt Disney World Map MagicBand+

This Disney MagicBand+ is so cute! It has a vintage style map of the Magic Kingdom as the print and would be a great band for those who love vintage Disney! Magic Kingdom fans won’t be able to say no to this one.

Winnie the Pooh MagicBand+

This MagicBand+ couldn’t be any cuter with Winnie the Pooh carrying his “hunny pot” and surrounded by bees. Even the center design is a pot of honey, and kids and adults alike will love this whimsical band.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever MagicBand+

This limited release MagicBand+ is perfect for Black Panther fans and lovers of the Marvel Universe. The center is the Black Panther helmet, and you can’t go wrong with this powerful band.

Disneyland Marquee MagicBand+

We couldn’t leave out Disneyland when it comes to finding a cute MagicBand+! This bright blue band has the iconic Disneyland sign on the arm, and the center is Sleeping Beauty’s castle.

We hope this deep dive into Disney Magic Bands has helped you decide whether these are a must-have for you on your next trip. If you use MagicBands already, did you know these tips and secrets? And will you use any of them the next time you go?

Let us know in the comments!

Reader Interactions

May 17, 2023 at 3:31 pm

How do we get a discount for the Magic Bands? I’m staying on property, but don’t see anything on the My Disney Experience app or the shopping app that allows me a discount. Thanks!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Experience More Magic with MagicBand+

Enjoy all of the features you've come to love with magicband—plus so much more.

Dazzling Interactions

Shine Bright at Nighttime Spectaculars

Become a Bounty Hunter

Let magicband+ open your world, enter disney parks.

With valid admission and a theme park reservation, easily enter the parks at Walt Disney World Resort.

Unlock Disney Resort Room

Access your Disney Resort hotel room door with a single tap.

Easily Make Purchases

Charge food and merchandise purchases to the payment card on file at your Disney Resort hotel room during your stay.

Shine Bright

Your MagicBand+ will light up, vibrate and interact with select nighttime spectaculars, creating a truly connected experience.

Be a Part of the Story

Find your style.

With so many unique designs and styles to choose from, MagicBand+ lets you show off your personality! MagicBand+ styles are subject to availability.

Resort Guests and Annual Passholders: How to Purchase

Guests that have a Disney Resort hotel reservation or an Annual Pass may receive a special pre-arrival price on a customized MagicBand+ if they purchase through My Disney Experience prior to their arrival. Resort Guests qualify for the discount 6 or more days prior to their Resort hotel reservation. Annual Passholders are eligible to purchase a specially priced MagicBand or MagicBand+ per Annual Pass.

• Create or sign in to your account.
• Link your reservation or Annual Pass to your account.
• Select My MagicBands and Cards to complete your order.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Access the Magic

A More Magical Stay

Explore resort packages.

Create a room-and-ticket package that’s specifically tailored to your interests and budget.

Get Theme Park Tickets

Discover fun across all 4 Walt Disney World Resort theme parks and both water parks!

My Disney Experience App

Download the My Disney Experience app to access special content, view wait times, place mobile orders and more.

Lightning Lane Entrances

Make the most out of your time when you purchase Lightning Lane passes.

The Disney Cruise Line Blog

An unofficial disney cruise line news, information, weather, and photo blog..

DisneyBand+ Expanding to the Disney Wonder Starting March 19, 2024

This week, Disney Cruise Line announced the expansion of DisneyBand+ to the Disney Wonder beginning March 19, 2024 , a 4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego. Eligible guests may place orders between 45 and 11 days prior to sailing.

The Disney Wonder DisneyBand+ rollout completes the rollout across the fleet. Originally, the DisneyBand+ debuted on the Disney Wish (6/12/2023) , followed by the Disney Fantasy (7/29/2023) , Disney Magic (10/22/2023) , and Disney Dream (11/10/2023) .

As the fleet wide rollout is complete, Disney Cruise Line is no longer offering a pre-arrival purchase discount for DisneyBand+. All orders reflect current retail pricing. As with most offerings, pricing is subject to change and Guests should confirm pricing during the purchasing process.

You can learn more about the DisneyBand+ on Disney Cruise Line’s dedicated page here .

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Disney Cruise Family Travel Blog

Travel and Fun Things To Do

DisneyBand+ is Now Available on the Disney Fantasy

Guests sailing on the Disney Fantasy this summer are reporting that they can purchase DisneyBand+ for their upcoming cruises. DisneyBand+ debuted on the Disney Wish in June 2023 . At the time, there was no word when the bands would be released across the fleet. The cruise on July 29, 2023 , will be the first on the Fantasy to use the DisneyBand+.

What is DisneyBand+?

DisneyBand+  is a waterproof wristband designed to make certain parts of your vacation easier. From boarding the ship on embarkation day to accessing your stateroom, paying for onboard items with a valid payment card, and more, DisneyBand+ brings convenience—and a bit of magic—to your cruise.

Is DisneyBand+ rechargeable?

Yes. DisneyBand+ has a rechargeable battery. Don’t forget to pack the charger that comes with it!

How much does a DisneyBand+ cost?

Solid bands cost $34.99, and themed designs cost $44.99, plus tax.

How long does the battery on a DisneyBand+ last?

Depending on an individual’s band use, the battery can last an estimated 1 to 3 days when fully charged. For optimal usage, it is recommended you charge your DisneyBand+ overnight.

Can I use my DisneyBand+ at Disney theme parks around the world?

Your DisneyBand+ for Disney cruises can be used at Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort.

Will my existing MagicBand work on Disney Cruise Line ships?

No. Previous versions of MagicBand are currently not supported on Disney Cruise Line ships. However, you can use MagicBand+ as a DisneyBand+ on your Disney cruise.

What phones are compatible with DisneyBand+?

DisneyBand+  can pair with most smart devices, including Android and Apple devices.

I do not live in the United States. Will you ship my DisneyBand+ internationally?

Unfortunately, DisneyBand+ orders can only be shipped to valid US addresses. For Guests outside the United States, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, DisneyBand+ will be available for purchase at select onboard merchandise locations (subject to availability). United States residents can visit Bands & More  to select and purchase their bands. When you customize your DisneyBand+, you’ll be asked to provide a valid US shipping address.

How to order

Order a DisneyBand+ by visiting  My  Reservations   between 11 and 45 days of your sail date if your reservation is paid in full (while supplies last). Shipping is available to US addresses only (excluding PO Boxes, APO, FPO, DPO, or any cruise ports).

Check out the guides for  Magic ,  Wonder ,  Dream ,  Fantasy , and  Wish  guides. Sign up for our newsletter for the latest Disney Cruise news, including updates to  making special dining requests  and a guide on  how to check in for your cruise .

This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning, that if you make a purchase through my links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support of this site.

Related Posts

Six Essential Tips for Booking Your Disney Cruise on Opening Day

Disney Destiny Fish Extender Groups

• International
• Appointments
• Domestic Hotels
• International Hotels
• Attractions
• Ministry of External Affairs
• Ministry of Tourism
• Associations
• Guest Column
• Refund Policy

• TTJ Spotlight

Stirring Disney Magic into Asian Waters: Disney Cruise Line to Set Sail from Singapore in 2025

The burgeoning Asian cruise market has drawn the attention of Disney Cruise Line, which is now set for its Asia debut with the launch of Disney Adventure, from Singapore in 2025. In a recent interview with TTJ, Sarah Fox, Vice President and Regional General Manager for Asia, and Lloyd Machado, Director of Hotel, New Build, and Dry Dock Operations, at Disney Cruise Line, shared insights into the enchanting new ship that promises to captivate cruise lovers and family vacationers alike.

– Gurjit Singh Ahuja

Cruising the Disney Way

It is almost impossible to imagine anyone not being smitten or enamoured with the Disney magic. Picture a world where fairy tales come alive—whether it is the timeless stories of Snow White or Cinderella, the thrilling escapades of Moana, Mowgli, or the thunderous might of Marvel’s Super Heroes, the majestic roars of The Lion King, or the delightful antics of Donald Duck and Mickey Mouse. Tinker Bell’s pixie dust has touched generations, leaving them longing for endless doses of Disney wonder. The Disney Adventure is a vacation at sea that promises to transform Asian cruise lovers on a Disney Magic voyage.

Sarah Fox, a veteran in both Disney and the Asian market, has deep experience in the region, having previously worked with Shanghai Disneyland and Hong Kong Disneyland before leading Disney Cruise Line’s operations in Singapore. “In 1998, Disney launched the concept of ‘Family Luxury Cruising,’ giving Disney enthusiasts the chance to enjoy the Disney vacation experience on the open seas,” Fox stated.

She further elaborated, “Our cruises embody the essence of our parks: attention to detail, quality, storytelling, and an immersive experience. Disney Cruise Line has its own hallmark of ‘Fun and Relaxation’ for everyone, featuring incredible entertainment, dining, beautiful and artful accommodations, and our amazing crew. Our crew is the key differentiator of the Disney experience.”

The Disney Adventure

Starting in 2025, the Disney Adventure will embark on its maiden voyage from Singapore, offering families three- and four-night journeys entirely at sea. The ship will be both a journey and a destination, providing endless opportunities for families to have an unforgettable vacation without ever needing to leave the vessel.

The 208,000-gross-ton Disney Adventure will house artful stateroom and concierge accommodations that will accommodate approximately 6,700 passengers and 2,500 crew members. Guest accommodations have been designed with family cruise vacations in mind. The ship will sail from the Marina Bay Cruise Centre as part of a collaboration between Disney Cruise Line and the Singapore Tourism Board.

The Essence of the Ship Build

Lloyd Machado, Director of Hotel for New Build & Dry Dock Operations, Disney Cruise Line, oversees the shipbuilding process for the Disney Adventure. A Disney veteran who joined the team in 1998, Machado has steadily climbed the ranks, always prioritising top-tier hospitality and operational excellence with a customer-focused approach.

“The Disney Adventure will be both a journey and a destination,” said Machado, emphasising that the ship will bring to life the core pillars of Disney storytelling. “Through the magic of imagination, discovery, fantasy, and — of course — adventure, guests will embark on voyages to seven uniquely themed areas, each teeming with incredible characters and unforgettable experiences, all without leaving the ship,” revealed Machado.

Aboard the Disney Adventure

Disney Imagination Garden: An enchanted valley, charming garden, and open-air performance venue all in one. Inspired by 100 years of heroic and heartwarming Disney adventures—from Moana on the high seas to Mowgli in the jungle to Rapunzel’s grand adventure beyond her tower.

Disney Discovery Reef: Families will play, shop, and dine in an ethereal and ever-changing retreat evoking favourite aquatic characters and nautical stories from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios, including ‘The Little Mermaid,’ ‘Lilo & Stitch,’ ‘Finding Nemo,’ and ‘Luca.’

San Fransokyo Street: A family entertainment area pulsing with the energy and atmosphere of a vibrant street market, boasting an assortment of interactive games and activities, shops, cinemas, and more.

Wayfinder Bay: Where the sky meets the sea, an open-air oasis under the sun invites you to unwind and enjoy exclusive entertainment. The sophisticated yet casual poolside retreat will reflect the Pacific Islands-inspired artistry of Disney Animation’s ‘Moana,’ offering some of the most stunning views of the sea and sky aboard the Disney Adventure.

Town Square: This fantastical forest filled with shops, lounges, cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues will exude the enchanting feeling of summer in full bloom with nods to ‘Tangled,’ ‘Cinderella,’ ‘Frozen,’ ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,’ ‘The Princess and the Frog,’ and more.

Marvel Landing: Heroes will unite in a destination for fans of all ages. As a celebration of Marvel’s larger-than-life personalities, this area will offer Avengers-level adventure, with all-new attractions and experiences that showcase imaginative representations of guests’ favourite superheroes.

Toy Story Place: An interactive playland with themed food venues and water play areas, where the world of Pixar’s ‘Toy Story’ movies and shorts springs to life in surprising and inventive ways.

Accommodations Fit for Royalty

After a day filled with magical adventures and excitement onboard the Disney Adventure, families can look forward to unwinding in their thoughtfully designed staterooms. Each stateroom is meticulously appointed, featuring special Disney touches that delight children and adults alike. With a variety of room options available, guests can choose between serene ocean-view staterooms for breathtaking vistas or promenade-view rooms to enjoy the ship’s lively ambiance from the comfort of their own space.

For those seeking ultimate luxury, the Disney Adventure offers dedicated concierge accommodations, which elevate the cruise experience to an entirely new level. Concierge bookings come with a host of premium amenities, including access to private areas reserved solely for concierge guests. Among these exclusive areas is a private indoor lounge where guests can unwind in an elegant and serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of the ship.

Culinary Journey Across the Seas

“Disney Cruise Line understands that food is intrinsic to an Indian family’s cruise experience onboard,” Lloyd elaborated. “Our chefs have meticulously crafted menus that reflect the diverse tastes of Indian cuisine. We will be offering a wide range of Indian vegetarian dishes, as well as specially prepared Jain meals that exclude onion and garlic, catering to the dietary needs of our Jain guests.”

“Non-alcoholic beverage stations are placed throughout the ship, ensuring refreshing drinks are always within reach. These are all included as part of your package, so our guests can enjoy them at leisure,” he added.

The Countdown Begins

As 2025 approaches, the anticipation grows. The travel fraternity is eagerly awaiting the announcement of the exact launch date for the Disney Adventure, eager to offer their clients the opportunity to experience their Disney fantasy at sea aboard this magnificent ship.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Norwegian Cruise Line opens sales for all-new Norwegian Luna, set to sail in 2026

TAAI Elections 2024-26: ‘Together we can transform the travel and tourism landscape in India’ – Jyoti Mayal

SLH bridging the existing gap in India’s independent luxury hotels to a global distribution network

Recent Posts

Norwegian Cruise Line opens sales for all-new Norwegian Luna, set to...

TAAI Elections 2024-26: ‘Together we can transform the travel and tourism...

Japan Airlines (JAL) introduces complimentary domestic flights for international travellers

Representation World celebrates first milestone with Expoinn Suites and Convention Hotel...

‘Spectacular Saudi’ brings a piece of Saudi to India from September...

Latest posts.

• Close 

I just received magic band pluses for our upcoming trip. I will pair my magic band plus to my phone’s Bluetooth. Should I pair my children’s (ages 5 and 7) magic band pluses with my phone’s Bluetooth as well? What happens when paired with Bluetooth? ”

• Useful 1 Useful Please Log In to mark this question useful.
• Save Answer Please Log In to view your saved answers.
•  Pinterest
•  Facebook
•  Email

Meet the Panelist: Brent, Maryland

Related video.

Related Links

Visit Walt Disney World Resort to explore the magic.

• My Disney Experience
• Walt Disney World Magic Bands
• Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation

Thank a Panelist

Share a message of thanks with the knowledgeable panelist who provided a personalized answer to your disney vacation question..

256 Characters Remaining

Please do not include personal information such as full names and reservation numbers in your message.

• Whom do you want to thank?
• Close Submit

Thanks for submitting your comment!

Didn't find what you were looking for click the ask a question button to open the ask a question dialogue box. if you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question., to submit your question, please log in now if you have not already done so., ask plandisney, discover the magic of a disney parks family vacation from one of our knowledgeable online panelists..

Please do not include personal information such as full names and reservation numbers in your question.

• Relevant Tags Please select at least one tag related to your question from the choices below.

The menu below has been automatically set to the panelist you were reviewing, however, you can ask anyone on our panel.

• Close Ask a Question Opens the Ask a Question dialog box.

Thanks for submitting your question!

You'll receive an email if your question is answered., please note.

Email communication is the only way we can notify you when your question has been answered. If you choose to opt-out of receiving emails, you will need to return to the site to check if your question has been answered.

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer .

Or you can continue browsing without updating.

Help Center

How can we help you.

DisneyBand+ & More – Frequently Asked Questions

Will my existing MagicBand work on Disney Cruise Line ships?

No. Previous versions of MagicBand are not supported on Disney Cruise Line ships at this time. However, you can use MagicBand+ as a DisneyBand+ on your Disney cruise.

Did you find this answer helpful?

Related Questions

What ships and/or itineraries are eligible for DisneyBand+?