Disney Cruise Hacks And Secrets

Embarkation day can be an exciting time, but it can also be hectic if you're not prepared, so it's essential to get ready beforehand and follow a few key tips. First, complete the online check-in process as early as possible and print out any necessary documents. The earlier you can check in, the earlier you can head to the port and get on the ship. Pack a carry-on bag with essentials such as medications, swimsuits, sunscreen, and any items you'll need before your stateroom is ready. This way, you can enjoy the ship's amenities and start your vacation immediately, even before your stateroom is available.

Lastly, arrive at the port of embarkation on time. There is no need to arrive early as everyone on the sailing is assigned a specific time to board. However, being on time will give you plenty of time to check in, go through security, and board the ship smoothly.

The Fish Extender Gift Exchange is a fun activity that has become increasingly popular on Disney cruises. It involves bringing small presents to share with other passengers in your designated Fish Extender group. The name comes from the fish-shaped hook outside most staterooms (sometimes a starfish), where cruise line employees hang laundry, notes, or other items that passengers request. The exchange provides an excellent opportunity to meet and interact with fellow cruisers. To participate, guests need to sign up for a Fish Extender group before the cruise begins, and they can start preparing their gifts in advance. 

These groups are not monitored or managed by Disney Cruise Line. It is up to you and your fellow passengers to make this "unofficial tradition" fun and fair. Gifts and trinkets range from custom-made keychains and magnets to Disney-themed toys and treats. Simple, useful gifts are the best to keep your suitcase from overflowing before or after your cruise.

Interacting with Disney characters is a dream come true for many guests, and the Disney Cruise Line offers plenty of opportunities to do so. There are countless ways to rub shoulders with your favorite characters onboard the ship, such as character meet-and-greets, where you can take photos and get autographs. Keep an eye on the ship's daily schedule for meet-and-greet times and locations.

Another great way to interact with characters is through unplanned interactions while exploring the ship. Characters will also make appearances in the kids' clubs, and some even stop by for a planned reading of a bedtime story. Sometimes characters make appearances during meals, but it is not something you can count on unless you book an experience such as the Royal Court Tea. However, the 2022-launched Disney Wish ship has more dedicated character dining experiences, including Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure and Worlds of Marvel.

Port days are the perfect opportunity to explore the destinations on your cruise itinerary, and the Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of shore excursions to enhance your port experience. Make the most of port days by planning ahead and booking shore excursions in advance, as popular tours often fill up quickly. Guided tours are a great way to explore the port of call, learn about the local culture, and visit popular attractions. Booking these kinds of activities through Disney Cruise Line offers a sense of safety, as the businesses are all hand-selected by Disney to ensure you continue to receive the service you've come to expect on a Disney vacation.

Additionally, should there be any issues with docking at a port, all port adventures booked through Disney are automatically refunded. The same cannot be said for any excursions booked through outside companies. Port excursions booked with Disney are also adjusted to the ship's time. If the ship docks late, the excursion will run later. If the port adventure is late returning to the ship, the cruise ship will wait for those passengers to return.

Keeping track of your room key card can be a hassle, especially when you're constantly on the go. To ensure easy room access, it's a good idea to bring a lanyard or cardholder if you are new to cruising with Disney. If this isn't your first time cruising with Disney, lanyards will be provided in your stateroom when you board the ship. Attaching your room key card to a lanyard and wearing it around your neck keeps your key card easily accessible. This way, you never have to worry about misplacing or fumbling for your key card when you need it most.

A newly added feature that began testing in 2023 is DisneyBand+. These are the same bands called MagicBand+ used at Walt Disney World and Disneyland to allow you access to your hotel room, make purchases, and scan into rides and attractions. On the ship, DisneyBand+ adds the convenience of wearing your room key and purchasing ability right on your wrist. There are exclusive cruise-related designs that can be ordered and shipped before your sailing, or if you already have a MagicBand+ wristband from Disney Parks, you can use your MagicBand+ in place of DisneyBand+ on board.

Disney Cruise Line is known for going above and beyond when it comes to celebrations. Whether it's a child's birthday or an anniversary celebration, they ensure that every moment is filled with magic and joy. When booking your cruise, remember to note any special occasions you plan on celebrating so that the crew can make sure you have an unforgettable experience. Similar to the experience in the parks, Disney Cruise Line has unique buttons guests can wear so everyone knows what they are celebrating.

Apart from this, if you're planning a surprise for someone special onboard, don't worry about needing to pack gifts or decorations. They offer packages like in-room gifts, flowers, chocolates, and other amenities that can be delivered to your stateroom while you are away to maintain the surprise. With their exceptional customer service and attention to detail, Disney Cruise Line ensures that every guest feels celebrated and appreciated throughout their journey.

The Navigator App is an essential tool for anyone looking to optimize their Disney Cruise experience. This app provides access to a wide range of features at your fingertips, making it easier to stay on top of your daily schedule and activities. With the ability to review menus, make reservations, and check schedules, you'll never miss out on any of the exciting offerings onboard.

One of the most convenient features of the app is its real-time updates on activities, shows, meet-and-greets, weather, and more. This way, you can plan your day accordingly and make the most efficient use of your time. Interactive maps also help you navigate the ship with ease. You can even use the Navigator App to message other guests onboard, making it easy to coordinate plans and stay connected with friends and family. The app's user-friendly interface makes it simple to use for everyone, from tech-savvy individuals to those who are less familiar with technology.