Magic and Wonder: 6 tips for Disney Cruise first-timers

Theatrical productions entertain the “poor unfortunate souls” aboard Disney’s Magic.

By Deborah Bowen

From the moment Captain Mickey steps into the terminal as you prepare to board Disney’s Magic or Wonder, you are in for an unforgettable vacation. As you prepare for passage on one of these world-class ships, here are some suggestions for making the most out of your first Disney Cruise Line experience.

1. Create memories with your favorite characters. You’ll find short waits and long interactions as you meet and greet your special Disney pals. Disney characters also play starring-roles in the Broadway-quality entertainment you’ll find aboard the ships.

2. Respond to all of the sights and sounds and experiences. Participate in the deck parties and in the scheduled activities; you’ll feel like family.

Disney Wonder sails to Mexico, the Caribbean and Alaska.

3. Use your Personal Navigator, the guide to the following day’s events, to make a schedule — or to decide to relax at one of the pools, and do absolutely nothing at all.

4. Investigate your surroundings. Both the Wonder and Magic boast gorgeous fine art – like custom ceiling features by artist Dale Chihuly – and those incredible themed touches for which Disney is so famous.

5. Savor. Relish the food and the atmosphere of the dining rooms.  Your servers will quickly learn your preferences, and they’ll happily bring you seconds.

6. End with a blast. Extend your vacation with a few days at the Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts.  It’s a great way to prolong the fun.

Both ships provide first-time cruisers with an array of immersive experiences, designed to excite and delight.  Whether your destination is a sunny island or a frosty fjord, only Disney Cruise Line sets sail on pixie-dusted waters, overflowing with both Wonder and Magic.

Deborah Bowen, an English professor at the University of South Florida and member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel, has lived the majority of her life less than an hour from Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts.

Tagged: Cruise, Disney, Family time