Things to Know Before You Go – Disney Cruise

If you’re thinking about going on a Disney cruise or just booked one, I am sure you are excited and wondering about many things. I’ve now been on a few sailings, and while a lot of it is straightforward, there are definitely little things some people don’t really realize their trip or even after.

So if you’re planning your first Disney cruise or just trying to figure out what to expect, here are a few things to know before you go!

Join Your Sailing’s Facebook Group

Every Disney cruise sailing has its own Facebook group that someone also traveling on that cruise has created. If you are looking for yours type in the ship name and the dates you are going. Example: Disney Wonder July 9th-13th, 2026. If you can’t find it, it could be because it hasn’t been created yet.

You don’t have to join it, but it can be really helpful, especially if it’s your first time. The admins are typically those who have cruised many many times! In the groups you will find out about activities, who booked what or is releasing what they make have booked so you can try and grab it, answering questions, reminding you when to check-in and so much more!

It’s also where people share things like packing ideas, excursions, and what they’re planning to do once onboard. It’s also where you’ll see people organizing things like fish extenders and sometimes pixie dusting. I have even seen magnet, beer, and ornaments exchanges as well as scavenger hunts put together for the kids to participate in. The groups are very beneficial and I highly recommend joining your dedicated group.

What Are Fish Extenders and Pixie Dusting?

Fish extenders are basically a gift exchange that happens during your cruise. Outside of your stateroom door, there’s a small hook where people hang organizers or pockets. Throughout the cruise, other participants drop off small gifts. It can be anything from snacks to small souvenirs to personalized items. You sign up for this ahead of time through your sailing’s Facebook group and get assigned a group to exchange with.

Pixie dusting is similar, but more random. Instead of a structured exchange, people leave small surprises for others just because. Although some FaceBook groups do set up Pixie Dusting where you can put your information down to receive items, it is not guaranteed like fish extenders are. Pixie dusting is random, someone may even just hand you something while walking around the ship just because, that is pixie dusting too.

Both are completely optional, but they add a fun, extra layer to the experience if you want to participate.

Door Decorations, Magnets, and Finding Your Room

One thing you’ll notice pretty quickly on a Disney cruise is how many people decorate their stateroom doors. It can be as simple as a few magnets or as detailed as full themed setups with names, lights, characters, or designs. It’s not required at all, but it’s a fun part of the experience if you want to participate. Some people also tie this into things like fish extenders, pin trading, or even leaving small treats or pixie dust for others to grab and go.

Beyond just being fun, it actually helps more than you’d think. All the doors start to look the same after a while, so having something on your door makes it a lot easier to spot your room.

Cruise door banners have also started becoming really popular, especially for trips and celebrations. If you want something simple, I created editable cruise door banner templates that you can customize in minutes and print before your trip. They’re already sized for standard 2×6 banners, so you don’t have to figure anything out.

One thing to keep in mind is that you can’t use tape or anything that could damage the doors. The doors and walls are magnetic, so magnets and magnetic hooks work perfectly for hanging decorations.

How Dining Actually Works on a Disney Cruise

Dining can be a little confusing to some, but once you understand how it works, it’s pretty simple.

They do have a buffet, but it’s only open for breakfast and lunch. There are also sit-down options for breakfast and lunch if you don’t feel like going to the buffet. Dinner is where things are different. Disney uses rotational dining, which means you’ll rotate through three different restaurants during your trip. You won’t know your schedule until you board, and the restaurants vary depending on the ship.

What’s nice is that your dining team stays with you the entire time. So even though you’re moving to different restaurants, your servers move with you and get to know your preferences. Once they get to know what you like they will already have your beverage waiting for you at the table. They also do their best to get your child’s food out quickly, especially if you are doing Dine & Play during the 8:15pm dinner so that the kids club can pick them up while you finish up your dinner.

There’s also a lot of food included. During dinner, you can order as much as you want. Multiple appetizers, entrees, desserts, whatever you feel like trying. Around the ship, especially on the pool deck, there are quick options like pizza, burgers, hot dogs, and more. There’s also free soft serve ice cream, and soda and water are included.

Overall, there’s something for everyone, even picky eaters, and they do a really good job accommodating allergies and dietary restrictions.

Drinks and Drink Packages

If you’ve been on other cruise lines before, one thing to know is that Disney Cruise Line does not have a traditional drink package. Alcoholic drinks are paid for individually, and prices will vary depending on what you order. They do usually have a “drink of the day” that’s discounted.

You’re also allowed to bring alcohol onboard. Each adult can bring up to two bottles of wine, champagne or a 6 pack of beer, which can be helpful if you want to have something in your room or bring it to dinner. Outside of that, soda and water are included, especially at the drink stations and with meals. You’ll only typically pay extra if you’re ordering specialty drinks or things like canned beverages.

Adult-Only Dining Isn’t a Must

You’ll probably see a lot about adult-only dining options while you’re planning. They can be a nice experience, but if you don’t get reservations, it really doesn’t take away from your trip. Yes, they are delicious, yes they are an extra charge, but if you don’t get it, I promise it is not the end of the world.

There is so much food included already that you’re not going to feel like you’re missing out. Between quick service spots, rotational dining, and room service you’ll have more than enough options. So while it’s a nice add-on if you want it, it’s definitely not something that will make or break your cruise.

Room Service Is Included

Room service is included on Disney cruises, and it’s one of those things that’s really easy to take advantage of once you know how it works. You can order as much as you want, whenever you want, and most of it is included. The only things you’ll typically pay extra for are canned beverages.

It’s also common to tip the person who brings your order, usually around $1 per item.

They have a cake of the day and Mickey bars available through room service, even though you won’t see them listed on the menu. You can also order continental breakfast to your room in the morning, but you have to plan ahead for that. There’s a hang tag card in your stateroom that you fill out with what you want and hang outside your door before 3am.You can even have coffee delivered, which is helpful if you’re not trying to leave your room first thing.

One small tip that makes a big difference is for the last day. You won’t be able to order room service the morning of disembarkation, but you can order coffee the night before and it will still be hot in the morning. You’ll still have the option to go to the buffet or sit down for breakfast before getting off the ship, but if you need that first cup of coffee to get moving, that’s an easy way to make sure you have it.

Are Cabanas Worth It?

Cabanas are another thing people wonder about for the private island days like Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point or Castaway Cay. They are great. You get your own shaded space and a more private setup, which makes the day feel a little more relaxed.

But not having one does not ruin your experience. The beach areas are still really nice, there’s plenty of space, and you can absolutely enjoy the day without one. They are also known for being hard to get since concierge guests and higher Castaway Club levels usually get first access.

That said, it’s not impossible to get one. On my second and third cruises, I was able to snag a cabana, so it really comes down to timing, availability, and sometimes a little luck. If you can get one and it fits your budget, it’s a great option. If not, you’ll still have a great time.

Traveling with Babies and Little Kids

If you’re traveling with a baby or younger kiddos, there are a few things Disney can provide that make things a lot easier.

You can request items like a pack and play, diaper genie, and bed rails for your room. In the dining rooms, they also have highchairs and booster seats available. I’ve also heard of them mashing up food for babies and some people have been able to get bottle warmers as well.

The biggest thing here is to plan ahead. You’ll want to request these items in advance so they’re already in your room when you arrive. Some things can be requested in the Disney Cruise Line App, the rest you can request through Disney or your travel agent. If you forget, you can still go to Guest Services as soon as you board and ask, but it’s easier if it’s set up ahead of time.

Pirate Night

Most sailings, have Pirate Night. This is one of those themed nights where a lot of people go all in. Outfits, accessories, the works. Even if you don’t bring anything, Disney usually provides bandanas so you can still take part or you can buy stuff on the ship. They even have a Pirate makeover, even adults can participate.

It’s not mandatory, but it’s a fun part of the experience and something to be aware of ahead of time if you want to get your outfits together. This is the also typically the night they do fireworks at sea.

Overall, a Disney cruise is one of those trips that’s pretty easy to enjoy once you’re there. It’s organized and there’s always something to do.