On deck: winter cruises with Mickey and friends

Deck party: Fight the winter doldrums with the fam aboard the Disney Dream. Credit: Matt Stroshane.

By Deborah Bowen

Many people, especially at this chilly time of the year, crave the warm sun and golden sands of the world’s welcoming beaches. I appreciate these natural wonders, but as a Florida native and current resident, I sometimes like to appreciate them while wearing a sweater.

For several years now, my family and I have enjoyed one of the best-kept secrets: vacationing on Disney Cruise Line in February. I’d suggest that for a variety of reasons, January and February are ideal months to take a vacation aboard one of these magnificent ships.January and February are not considered “peak” travel months as travelers are returning from holiday vacations, children are back in school and family routines are being re-established in the New Year. This makes it the perfect time to take advantage of unique – and, many times, discounted – travel offers from Disney Cruise Line.

Since this time of year is not peak travel season, guests can enjoy the sublime, personalized service aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship while taking advantage of smaller crowds and special offers. In turn, travelers can decide to pocket the savings or use the difference to upgrade into a new level of comfort and style.

And the weather! The Bahamas share many of the same characteristics as Florida, so it’s reasonable to expect daytime temperatures in the mid 70s, nighttime temperatures in the high 50s to mid 60s, very little rain and almost no humidity.

Since shipboard pools are heated year-round, even us Southern types can brave the waters for ashot down the AquaDuck or a soak in one of the quiet pools. My hardier Northern readers will hardly notice the cool water temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean – I can almost guarantee it will be warmer than where you might be swimming at home!

Touring is lovely during January and February. Crowds are smaller, the weather is glorious and the experience of walking/riding and seeing the sights becomes less a “must-do” and more a want-to. It’s likely that your priority excursions will be available and you can go on that expedition you’ve been unable to score for so long.

With all of these advantages, it’s no wonder that late winter and early spring have become my family’s particular favorite time to sail. While anytime is great to take a Disney cruise, you can certainly maximize your enjoyment by considering the time of year in which you sail. With careful planning and a little pixie dust, your cruise dreams will come true!

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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