disney cruise out of hawaii

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Alaska Cruise Tours:

A cruise tour is a voyage and land tour combination, with the land tour occurring before or after the voyage. Unless otherwise noted, optional services such as airfare, airport transfers, shore excursions, land tour excursions, etc. are not included and are available for an additional cost.

Hawaii: Hawaiian Cruise

10-night disney wonder cruise.

From $1,810 per person* Additional government taxes, fees and port expenses per person: $196

Disney Cruise Line

Explore lush jungles and discover the extraordinary jewels of the Hawaiian tropics. Enjoy the exceptional quality that makes a Disney cruise outstanding — including luxurious amenities, magical onboard activities and fascinating Port Adventures.

Included Extras

  executive member benefit.

Executive Members receive an annual 2% Reward, up to $1,000, on qualified Costco Travel purchases

  Digital Costco Shop Card

Member Exclusive: Digital Costco Shop Card, courtesy of Costco Travel, with every Disney Cruise Line sailing†

Sailing Itinerary

Note: Cruise itineraries are subject to change. Please verify ports and times directly with the cruise line.

Port of Call Port of Call (Arrival, Departure)

Vancouver, a bustling west coast seaport in British Columbia, is among Canada’s densest, most ethnically diverse cities. A popular filming location, it’s surrounded by mountains, and also has thriving art, theatre and music scenes. Vancouver Art Gallery is known for its works by regional artists, while the Museum of Anthropology houses preeminent First Nations collections.

Nawiliwili is located on the southeastern coast of the island of Kauai between Lihue and Nawiliwili Bay along Highway 51 near Ninini Point and the Huleia Stream.Kaua'i is divided into five major districts, or moku 'aina. Nawiliwili Bay is located in the moku 'aina of Puna on the southeastern coast. One meaning of puna is spring, and Puna has an abundance of springs and streams caused by its location on the windward side of the island. Around 1000 A.D., settlers from the Marquesas arrived, led by Punanuikaia'aina. He succeeded in creating a chiefdom independent of Kona in Puna.

Kahului is located in Maui County on the west side of the island of Maui between Wailuku and Lower Paia along Highway 32 near the West Maui Forest Reserve and the Pacific Ocean.Kahului is heart of Maui, and the only deep water port for the island. This is where the major cruise and container ships come in, the main airport, Kahului Airport is located here also. Kahului has great variety in shopping and services, but lacks the variety of fine restaurants that Lahaina has, although some of the local dining favorites reside here. There are few hotels and resorts in Kahului, there is however, a new golf course. There are four major shopping malls with the largest being the Kaahumanu Mall.Most of 'industrial' Maui is located in Kahului. It is here where one of the main power plants is located, most of Maui's service oriented businesses, and the greatest variety in shopping. Everything from small local stores, catering to residents, to large discount stores such as K-Mart and Costco. Kahului has grown a lot in the past few years, unfortunately the infrastructure has not. As a result traffic is congested most of the working day. The traffic can be especially heavy while exiting the Kahului Airport area. Rush hour traffic is especially bad, both in the afternoons and evenings, traffic from Paia and Upcountry bottleneck at the intersection of Dairy Road and Hana Highway. Allow a little extra time for travelling through this area of Maui.

The Polynesians arrived in the Hilo area about 1100 A.C. They eventually inhabited the shores of Hilo Bay, farmed their crops, fished and traded their goods along the Wailuku River.  In the late 1700’s, the days of King Kamehameha’s rule, Hilo was the center of political activity and social growth. It was the prime place for the King to build his army of ships designed for conquering the Hawaiian Islands. By 1791 native Hawaiians had traveled as far as the United States and China. The King befriended many of the foreigners who traveled to the islands. With such considerable traveling, the Hawaiian way of life soon became influenced by products ranging from iron to livestock to non-native seeds.    Hilo became a stopping place for explorers, whaling ships, traders and those curious about active volcanoes. By the 1900’s, Hilo had grown into a commercial center. The sugar industry was booming, a number of wharves had been constructed, the breakwater was begun and a new railroad connected Hilo with other parts of the island. Then in 1946 – and again in 1960 – two destructive tsunamis swept Hilo’s Bayfront causing the relocation of Hilo’s government and commercial life. When the town was rebuilt, a large park and roadway were situated between the buildings and the shoreline to absorb future tidal waves.   Besides being a rare surviving example of an Hawaiian plantation town, cultural diversity is one of Hilo’s special charms. The local term, “mixed plate”, describes well the impact made by Polynesians, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, Koreans, other Pacific Islanders and Europeans on Hilo’s mixed-race culture of today. All these ethnic groups blend in the faces of the people who give Hilo its charm. Its diverse shopping opportunities, its small scale and its friendliness makes Hilo the perfect town in which to linger just a little longer.

Anyone lucky enough to be going to Honolulu doesn't have to give a reason for going. They can just say, "We're going to Honolulu," and imagination will take care of the rest. Moreover, Honolulu can probably live up to and even surpass whatever we imagine. World-famous beaches and tropical weather set the scene for an amazing mix of Pacific cultures in this Hawaiian capital. There is a reason why Hawaii is consistently rated as one of the nation's top travel destinations; in fact, there are several of them. Waikiki Beach is the center of activity for Hawaii's biggest industry: tourism. This is one of the world's greatest resort playgrounds, featuring some of the most beautiful beaches and hotels in the world. Visitors from all over the world flock here to enjoy the sun, the sand and the incredible nightlife. Besides the beaches, visitors to Honolulu can take tours of the countryside surrounding the downtown area. These tours are amazing, bringing visitors to some of the most beautiful rainforests and volcanoes in the world. Animal and plant life are abundant, and the scenery is unsurpassed. A five-minute car ride from Honolulu brings visitors into some of Nature's most beautiful and awe-inspiring sights. Several museums, including the Bishop Museum, combine exhibits on Hawaiian natural history with lessons about history and culture of its many diverse peoples. The Waikiki Aquarium is the third oldest public aquarium in the United States, and it features many of Hawaii's most interesting sea animals. The Honolulu Zoo also features some of the unique mammals, birds, and reptiles that inhabit the forests just outside of the city. The history of Hawaii is very rich, as the islands have always attracted many different people. Visitors can tour the Iolani Palace, the residence of the last of the Hawaiian monarchs. They can also visit Honolulu's Chinatown, which is more authentic than many of its mainland counterparts. They can also visit the Arizona Memorial, commemorating the destruction of the battleship Arizona during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that brought America into World War II. Honolulu exhibits the best of Hawaii in every way. From its famous beaches to its incredible natural preserves, this town has attracted millions of people from around the world. Many of those visitors stayed, helping to make Hawaii one of the most cosmopolitan and diverse places to visit in the United States. Anyone lucky enough to be going to Hawaii knows that he won't be disappointed.

Onboard the Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder

Costco Member Reviews

• Year Built: 1999
• Year Refurbished: 2016

Double Occupancy Capacity: 1754

Disney Wonder pays homage to the timeless style of the past while embracing the contemporary. Experience Disney's traditions of extraordinary family entertainment and superb service while you ride the waves.

Member reviews become available after at least 5 are received in order to provide you with an accurate picture of this travel product.

Onboard Activities

Activities & services (included in cruise).

Goofy's Pool

• Disco/Nightclub
• Game Arcade
• Theater/Show Lounge
• Fitness Center
• Sauna/Steam Room
• Pool - Adults Only
• Pool - Children's
• Pool - Outdoor
• Sports Facilities
• Water Park Arena
• Water Slide
• Whirlpool/Jacuzzi
• Bars/Lounges
• Children's Outdoor Play Area
• Organized Age Specific Activities
• Teen Center or Disco
• Teen Programs
• Business Center
• Concierge Desk
• Duty-Free Shops/Boutiques
• Safe Deposit Boxes

Activities & Services (available for an extra fee)

• Beauty Salon
• Full-Service Spa
• Internet Center
• Babysitting
• Dry Cleaning/ Laundry Service
• Infirmary/Medical Center
• Self-Service Laundromat

Main Dining

Rotational Dining:  The Disney Cruise Line method for making sure each guest experiences each themed dining environment onboard. Every evening you dine with the same tablemates and have the same servers as you "rotate" to one of the three main restaurants: Animator's Palate, Tiana's Place, and Triton's. You will be given your schedule when you board, so you'll know exactly when you'll enjoy the unique atmosphere of each restaurant.

Animator's Palate:  Inspired by the magic of Disney animation, this spacious yet stylized restaurant is filled with everything you'd expect to find inside an actual animator's studio. Character sketches, maquettes, light boxes, paint brushes, computer work stations and other tools of the animation trade delightfully decorate the venue; and scenes and characters from popular Disney films adorn the walls—creating a one-of-a-kind experience.

Tiana's Place:  Guests of Tiana's Place, the restaurant inspired by Princess Tiana in the Disney animated feature, "The Princess and the Frog," will be treated to a celebration of New Orleans dining and entertainment. Live music will be performed on the main stage, with rhythmic, toe-tapping notes of jazz, swing and blues setting the tone for the French Quarter supper club atmosphere. Chefs will cook up Tiana's recipes, drawing inspiration from the flavors and ingredients of the Louisiana bayou. Tiana's personal touch will be evident in the menu, the entertainment and throughout every detail in the restaurant. From Tiana's family photos to water lily-shaped candleholders to her framed culinary awards—all will help tell the timeless tale of Tiana's journey from waitress to frog to princess to proud restaurant owner.

Triton's:  This grand ballroom recalls a transatlantic ocean liner with a dazzling Art Deco theme. It brims with ornate chandeliers, stained glass walls and a mural with an "under the sea" theme. Enjoy a 4-course dinner with a distinct French-inspired twist.

Specialty Dining

Royal Court Royal Tea:  Lady Chamomile, Chef Brule and some popular Disney princesses welcome you to a dining celebration in your honor. Enjoy a whimsical teatime in an idyllic storybook setting adorned with sparkling chandeliers and fanciful icons. The Royal Tea Hostess and Royal Pastry Chef are pleased to make your acquaintance and encourage you to join in the fun as they sing, dance and regale you with stories. Feel like royalty - and delight in a very special meet-and-greet with some favorite Disney princesses!

Palo:  Experience elegant dining in an intimate atmosphere exclusively for adults. Engage every one of your senses with the sweeping ocean view, unsurpassed service and inspired Northern Italian specialties. This restaurant is available for an additional cost.

Pete's Boiler Bites

Casual Dining

Beach Blanket Buffet:  Delight in this tasty, tempting buffet for a casual breakfast and lunch. Choose to enjoy your meal in the lively indoor area or the open air of the dazzling deck.

Pinocchio's Pizzeria:  Savor the flavor of real Italian pizza: traditional cheese, pepperoni and a scrumptious special every day — along with tasty tropical drinks for the entire family.

Daisy’s de-Lites:  Indulge those between-meal cravings at this poolside eatery serving flavorful food items that are both well-balanced and delicious. Choose from salads, sandwiches, wraps and fruit—health-conscious treats sure to satisfy the pickiest of palates.

Pete's Boiler Bites:  Sink your paws into a scrumptious selection of tasty treats at this breezy eatery. Featuring classic American fare like burgers, hot dogs and tacos, Pete's Boiler Bites is a great place to enjoy a quick meal for lunch, dinner or anytime in between.

Eye Scream Treats:  Named after the friendly, one-eyed monster Mike Wazowski from the Disney·Pixar animated feature Monsters, Inc., this breezy eatery offers such a scary selection of soft-serve ice cream and spook-tacular toppings, you won’t believe your eye!

Room Service:  Complimentary 24-hour dining in the comfort of your stateroom.

Disclaimer regarding ship dining

Inside Stateroom

Ocean view stateroom, balcony stateroom, suite stateroom.

Enjoy more space than you'd find on most other cruise ships in a room with custom-designed furnishings and charming nautical appointments.

Standard Inside Stateroom (Category: 11C)

• Category 11A: Decks 6 and 7
• Category 11B: Decks 5 and 6
• Category 11C: Deck 2
• Sleeps: 3 to 4
• Size: 184 sq. ft.
• Room Configuration: queen bed, single sleeper sofa and upper-berth pull-down bed (if sleeping 4)
• View: no exterior view
• Custom Premium Plush Euro-top mattress
• Frette® 300-thread-count, 100%-cotton linens
• Premium bath towels
• 28" LCD flat-screen TV with remote control
• Full-length mirror
• Ample closet space
• Refrigerator
• In-room safe
• Phone with voicemail messaging
• Individual climate control
• Porthole mirror
• Signature spa, bath, and shower products
• Wi-Fi (additional fee)
• A sitting area with a couch, TV, and desk
• A heavy privacy curtain to separate the sitting and sleeping areas
• A full bathroom with a vanity, sink, shower, and tub
• Elevated wooden bed frames for under-bed storage of suitcases and other large items
• Attractive yet functional cabinetry in the living area

All this plus unparalleled Disney service at any and all hours is bound to make your stay a true pleasure.

Standard Inside Stateroom (Category: 11B)

Standard inside stateroom (category: 11a), deluxe inside stateroom (category: 10c).

• Category 10A: Decks 5, 6 and 7
• Category 10B: Deck 2
• Category 10C: Decks 1 and 2
• Size: 214 sq. ft.
• Room Configuration: queen bed, single sleeper sofa, upper berth pull-down bed (if sleeping 4)
• View: no exterior view (in all but the following: staterooms 5020, 5022, 5024, 5520, 5522, 5524, 6006 and 6506, which feature obstructed views)
• A "split bath": a bathroom with a vanity, sink, shower and tub and a half bathroom with a vanity, sink, and toilet (in all but accessible staterooms)

Deluxe Inside Stateroom (Category: 10B)

Deluxe inside stateroom (category: 10a), inside stateroom with restrictions (category: igt).

Category: IGT This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

Enjoy a view of the ocean in this stunning stateroom. Well-designed interiors provide ample living space and a split bath.

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom (Category: 09D)

• Category 9A: Decks 5, 6 and 7
• Category 9B: Deck 2
• Category 9C: Deck 2
• Category 9D: Deck 1
• Room Configuration: queen bed, single sleeper sofa and upper berth pull-down bed (if sleeping 4)
• View: One large porthole window or 2 small porthole windows (in Category 9D staterooms)

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom (Category: 09C)

Deluxe oceanview stateroom (category: 09b), deluxe oceanview stateroom (category: 09a), oceanview stateroom with restrictions (category: ogt).

Category: OGT This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

Tasteful décor, an expansive view, plush bedding and a private balcony make this stateroom your home-away-from-home.

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Navigator's Verandah (Category: 07A)

• Category 5A: Deck 7
• Category 5B: Decks 6 and 7
• Category 5C: Decks 5 and 6
• Category 6A: Decks 5, 6 and 7
• Category 7A: Decks 5, 6, and 7; enclosed verandah with limited views
• Size: 268 sq. ft., including verandah
• View: private verandah
• Patio furniture
• Deck lighting
• Plexiglas® or solid whitewall railings (in Category 6A staterooms)
• Childproof locks

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Category: 06A)

Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Category: 05C)

Deluxe oceanview stateroom with verandah (category: 05b), deluxe oceanview stateroom with verandah (category: 05a), deluxe family oceanview stateroom with verandah (category: 04e).

• Size: 304 sq. ft., including verandah
• Room Configuration: queen bed, single sleeper sofa, wall pull-down bed and upper berth pull-down bed
• Plexiglas® or solid whitewall railings (in Category 4E staterooms)

Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Category: 04B)

Deluxe family oceanview stateroom with verandah (category: 04a), verandah stateroom with restrictions (category: vgt).

Category: VGT This category can be booked for a special rate, guaranteed to you. Please note that the category is not associated at the time of booking with a specific stateroom, deck, bedding configuration or other particular settings. The assignment of an actual cabin will be performed during your check-in. The cabin can be anywhere on the ship.

Opulent suites feature a tasteful design, upgraded amenities, a private balcony, a whirlpool tub, a rain shower and a vanity mirror with a built-in TV.

Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Category: 03A)

• Room Configuration: queen bed, single sleeper sofa, upper berth pull-down bed and wall pull-down bed
• Premium Frette® bath towels
• 24" LCD flat-screen TV, with remote control
• Digital clock with 2 USB charging ports
• Elemis® Body Exotics bath, shower, and spa products
• Down Duvets: Enjoy a superlative night's sleep with the softness of genuine feather duvets, featured in Concierge main bedrooms.
• Guests of our Concierge Suites may choose from pillow options including hypoallergenic, feather, and therapeutic memory foam.
• Personal Robe and Slippers: These plush comforts are yours to use for the duration of your cruise.
• Complimentary 24-Hour Wi-Fi Internet Service: Enjoy Basic Surf Wi-Fi for each Guest in the stateroom at no extra charge. (Usage fees apply after the 24-hour package expires.)
• A "split bath": a bathroom with a vanity, sink, shower and round tub and a half bathroom with a vanity, sink, and toilet
• Plexiglas® or solid whitewall railings
• Port Adventures
• Reservations for Palo, spa treatments, or nursery stays
• Dining room seating requests
• Special occasions and celebrations
• Any other special requests, from pre-arrival to post-cruise
• Reservations (Port Adventures, Palo dining, spa treatments, and nursery stays)
• Dining reservation confirmations and changes
• Priority tendering in ports of call
• Updates to your personal itinerary
• Special occasions and celebration planning

From the Lounge, Concierge Guests can access a sun deck via a private entrance. Soak up the sun at this VIP onboard oasis and savor tranquil breezes in cushioned lounge chairs.

Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah (Category: 02B)

• A separate bedroom
• 1.5 bathrooms, including a main with a whirlpool tub
• Living room
• Wet bar stocked with water and sodas
• Walk-in closet
• Media library access
• Size: 614 sq. ft., including verandah
• Room Configuration: 1 bedroom with queen bed; double sleeper sofa in living room; wall pull-down single bed in living room (in staterooms 8032, 8034, 8532 and 8534) or bedroom (in staterooms 8022, 8046, 8048, 8078, 8080, 8086, 8522, 8548 and 8582) in all but staterooms 8100, 8102, 8600 and 8602
• View: private verandah with floor-to-ceiling windows
• High-definition LCD flat-screen TV
• Couch, desk and chair
• Dining table
• Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet Service: Enjoy the Basic Surf Wi-Fi package for each Guest in the suite for the length of the voyage at no extra charge.
• In-suite dining from our concierge in-suite dining menu. 

Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah (Category: 02A)

Concierge 2-bedroom suite with verandah (category: 01b).

• 2 separate bedrooms
• 2.5 bathrooms, including a main with a whirlpool tub
• 2 walk-in closets
• Size: 945 sq. ft., including verandah
• Room Configuration: 2 bedrooms: main with queen bed, second with two twin beds and upper berth pull-down bed; double sleeper sofa in living room
• View: private verandah with floor-to-ceiling windows in main living space
• 2 high-definition LCD flat-screen TVs (1 in the living room, 1 in the main bedroom)
• Guests of our Concierge Suites may choose from pillow options including hypoallergenic, feather, and therapeutic memory foam..
• Plexiglas® or solid whitewall railings and dividers
• In-suite dining from our concierge in-suite dining menu

Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah (Category: 01A)

• Open dining salon
• Pantry and wet bar stocked with water and sodas
• Size: 1,029 sq. ft., including verandah
• Room Configuration: 2 bedrooms: main with king bed, second with 2 single beds and 2 pull-down upper berths; wall pull-down bed in living room
• Frette® 1000-thread-count, 100% cotton linens
• 4 high-definition LCD flat-screen TVs (located in main bedroom, second bedroom, living room and media room)
• Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet Service: Enjoy the Premium Surf Wi-Fi package for each Guest in the suite for the length of the voyage at no extra charge.
• Plexiglas® railings and dividers

• Ship Name: Disney Wonder
• Year Entered Present Fleet: 1999
• Ship Class: Magic
• Maximum Capacity: 2,713
• Number of Passenger Decks: 11
• Number of Crew: 950
• Officers' Nationality: International
• Ocean-View without Balcony: 237
• Ocean-View with Balcony: 362
• Total Inside Staterooms: 256
• Tonnage (GRT): 84,000
• Capacity Based on Double Occupancy: 1,754
• Country of Registry: The Bahamas
• Total Staterooms: 875
• Suites with Balcony: 22
• Crew/Hotel Staff Nationality: International

Available Dates & Prices

Departure date, departure date - 09/23/2024, terms & conditions.

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for select stateroom categories only. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for details.

†This cruise includes a Digital Costco Shop Card that will arrive by email approximately 10 days after the start of your cruise. The exact amount of the Digital Costco Shop Card will be calculated during the booking process. The Digital Costco Shop Card promotion is nontransferable and may not be combined with any other promotion. To receive your Digital Costco Shop Card, bookings must be made directly through Costco Travel. Bookings made through Disney Cruise Line or the Disney onboard cruise consultant must be transferred to Costco Travel's reservation system to qualify for the Digital Costco Shop Card. Click on the Terms & Conditions link below for additional information.

Ship's Registry: The Bahamas

As to Disney's artwork, properties and logos: ©Disney

Digital Costco Shop Card

This booking includes a Digital Costco Shop Card which will arrive by email one to two weeks after you return from your vacation. The Digital Costco Shop Card is a convenient payment option in our warehouses and on Costco.com.

Ship Rating

An outstanding luxury cruise experience with an exceptional level of attention to detail. Expect superb service from all levels of officers and staff.

A very good quality all-around cruise experience aboard a ship that offers a range of facilities and services.

A decent, unpretentious cruise experience, with a moderate amount of space and quality in furnishing and fittings.

A modest quality cruise experience with less attention to detail and service.

Expect a very basic cruise experience with minimal attention to service, hospitality and finesse.

Offers some, but not all, of the amenities and services associated with the next highest star rating.

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The Disney Cruise Family Travel Blog

Travel and Fun Things To Do

Itineraries and Booking Available for South Pacific and Hawaii cruises

After a delay of one week booking opened for the 2023 and 2024 Hawaii and inaugural South Pacific cruises on the Disney Wonder. The cruises were announced on September 11, 2022 at D23.

The Disney Wonder will be sailing from Vancouver to Hawaii on October 3, 2023.

On March 1, 2024 it will sail from Hawaii to Vancouver.

South Pacific

The marque cruises are the South Pacific (transpacific cruises). They are are billed as 13-night and 15-night cruises, but the length of both is 14 -nights or as DCL says 14-sunsets because the ship crosses over the international date line.

The first sails from Hawaii on October 13, 2023 arriving in Sydney Australia on October 28, 2023.

The return cruise departs on February 16, 2024 returning to Hawaii on March 1, 2024

Booking for the cruise begins with platinum on October 10.

• October 10, 2022 : Platinum  Castaway Club Members  & Golden Oak Members
• October 11, 2022 : Gold  Castaway Club  Members
• October 12, 2022 : Silver  Castaway Club  Members, eligible Disney Vacation Club Members and Adventure Insiders
• October 13, 2022 : All Guests

*Note* online booking opened around 7;00am EST phone booking began at 8:00am EST.

*Update The February 16 cruise appears to be sold out at 8:30 am EST.

*Update rooms On the February 16 cruise have opened up again so it may have been a glitch. It would have been the fastest I have ever seen a cruise sell out LOL!

Opening Day Prices

Keep up to date with the latest Disney Cruise news by signing up for our newsletter. I will post pricing and itineraries for the Hawaii and South Pacific cruises soon. Learn all about the  Disney Wish  Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship and the  latest Disney vaccination policies . Are you new to the Disney Cruise line? See our  tips and tricks  to get the most out of 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

Current Disney Cruise Discounts May 28, 2024

Current Disney Cruise Discounts May 9, 2024

Disney Cruises to Hawaii

Embark on the magnificent Disney Wonder cruise ship and discover Hawaii’s tropical paradise. With itineraries that depart from Honolulu, Vancouver, or Sydney, you will have the opportunity to explore Hawaii’s breathtaking islands while experiencing the best of relaxation, adventure, and entertainment both on board and on land. Our guide will provide you with all the details you need about Disney cruises to Hawaii, including departure dates, pricing, ports of call, excursions, ship details, and everything in between, so you can be fully prepared for your unforgettable voyage.

Dates & Itineraries   |  Ships   |  Port   |  Airports   |  Hotels

Prefer to Speak with Someone? Vacationeers are Standing By!

Dates & Itineraries: Hawaiian Disney Cruises

Image © Disney

Several Disney Hawaiian cruises are currently scheduled between Vancouver, Honolulu, and Sydney. It’s important to note that since Disney’s Hawaii cruises are all one-way, separate “open jaw” flights (rather than round-trip) will be necessary.

Here are the details.

9-Night Hawaiian Cruise

Itinerary Includes

• Honolulu, HI (Cruise Start)
• Kahului, HI (2 days)
• Day at Sea (5 days)
• Vancouver, BC Canada (Cruise End)

2024 Sail Dates

• None currently scheduled

2025 Sail Dates

• February 24 – March 5 on Disney Wonder | from $4,850 USD | 🔶 One-Way Cruise from Honolulu ending in Vancouver

10-Night Hawaiian Cruise

• Vancouver, BC Canada (Cruise Start)
• Kahului, HI
• Nawiliwili, HI (2 days)
• Honolulu, HI (Cruise End)
• March 1 – 11 on Disney Wonder |from $5,200 USD | 🔶 One-way cruise from Honolulu ending in Vancouver
• September 23 – October 3 on Disney Wonder | from $5,293 USD | 🔶 One-way cruise from Vancouver ending in Honolulu

15-Night South Pacific Cruise

• Noumea, New Caledonia
• Pago Pago, American Samoa
• Day at Sea (9 days)
• Crossing International Date Line (Additional Day at Sea)
• Sydney, Australia (2 days, Cruise End)
• October 3 – 19 on Disney Wonder | From $5,232 USD | 🔶 One-way cruise from Honolulu ending in Sydney
• None currently scheduled for this itinerary
• Sydney, Australia (Cruise Start)
• Nawiliwili, HI
• Day at Sea (8 days)
• February 10 – 24 on Disney Wonder | From $5,288 USD | 🔶  One-way cruise from Sydney ending in Honolulu

Do You Have Questions About Disney Cruises to Hawaii?

You can find more information about Disney Cruises to Hawaii by contacting The Vacationeer . They are known as one of the best Disney travel agencies with years of experience in Disney Cruise Line vacations.

Whether you’re planning a trip in 2024 or a 2025 Disney Cruise , The Vacationeer can help you with every detail of your Hawaiian cruise. They will expertly tailor your itinerary to meet your needs, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience both on land and at sea.

The Vacationeer is committed to securing the lowest rates for your trip and offers complimentary Disney onboard credit as a booking bonus, providing you with free spending money to pay for extras not included in the fare.

But that’s not all. The Vacationeer can also assist you in exploring other exciting Disney cruises departing from Port Canaveral , Miami , and Fort Lauderdale , as well as Disney cruises from San Diego , New Orleans , Galveston , and even Disney cruises to Alaska .

So, whether you’re dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway or somewhere else, let The Vacationeer make your Disney cruise dreams a reality.

Contact them today for an instant price quote and discover how affordable Disney Cruise Line can be. Their services are entirely free , so there’s nothing to lose!

Where Do Disney Cruises to Hawaii Go?

Disney Cruise Line will offers several cruises which feature time in Hawaii.

Dedicated Hawaiian Cruises may include ports such as Hilo, Honolulu, Kahului, and Nawiliwili — along with Vancouver, Canada .

In addition, South Pacific Cruises may include  Honolulu, Kahului, and Nawililwili — along with ports in New Caledonia, American Samoa, Fiji, and Australia.

All of these cruises include several days at sea for guests to enjoy fine dining and onboard entertainment on the Disney Wonder. Guests can also personalize their packages with Port Adventures excursions for an immersive experience in each destination.

A Disney cruise to Hawaii offers endless activities, from natural landscapes to local traditions, vibrant city walks, and thrilling adventures. Here is an overview of some of the ports of call and points of interest on Disney’s Hawaiian cruise itinerary.

About Honolulu, Hawaii Disney Cruise Port

The capital city of Hawaii, Honolulu, combines nature with striking architecture to create a vibrant and modern metropolis. As a port of call on Disney cruises to Hawaii, visitors can experience the rich culture and flavors of the region, including the city’s hallmark crops of pineapple and sugarcane.

Travelers can explore historical landmarks like Pearl Harbor and King Kamehameha’s statue, hike up Diamond Head for a breathtaking view, or indulge in world-class shopping and dining at places like Ala Moana and Waikele Premium outlets.

Various Port Adventure excursions are available, such as the Polynesian Cultural Center tour or the Arizona Memorial & Battleship Missouri tour.

About the Hilo, Hawaii Disney Cruise Port

Hilo is a vibrant port of call on Disney Cruises to Hawaii, offering a blend of Polynesian history and contemporary culture.

Visitors can explore the quaint charm of Hilo’s picturesque main street and the tropical rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and majestic volcanoes of the Big Island. Local attractions include the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory, Lili‘uokalani Park and Gardens, and the wonderful local farmers market.

Exciting shore excursions include the Captain Zodiac Raft and Snorkel in Kona , the Lush Hilo and Waterfalls nature adventure, and the Volcano National Park Odyssey.

About the Nawiliwili, Hawaii Disney Cruise Port

A Disney cruise would not be complete without a stop in Nawiliwili, Hawaii, where visitors can experience the wonders of Kaua’i, the oldest of the Hawaiian islands.

The area features untouched beaches, lush jungles, idyllic waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes, including the Waimea Canyon , often described as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The port also provides the opportunity to experience local culture and flavor, from meeting the locals to exploring restored plantation buildings that house shops and restaurants.

Various port excursions are available, such as kayaking and hiking to waterfalls, horseback riding in Poipu, or taking a Kauai movie tour.

About the Kahului, Hawaii Disney Cruise Port

Kahului is a port of call on a Disney Hawaiian cruise that offers a combination of natural beauty, local culture, and modern amenities. The city is surrounded by pristine rainforests to the east, upscale shopping to the south, and a classic beachside village to the west.

There are many things to see and do in Kahului, including visiting the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, biking along the picturesque Skyline Trail, or exploring the history of Hawaiian sugar plantations at the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum .

Optional shore excursions include the Atlantis Submarine Adventure, journeying to the 10,000-foot summit of Maui’s dormant Haleakala volcano, and experiencing the Old Lahaina Luau.

About the Vancouver Disney Cruise Port

Vancouver is a beautiful city, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains. It is known for its scenic beauty and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge, among other attractions.

The Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal is the departure or arrival port for Disney Hawaiian cruises and is conveniently located near many of Vancouver’s major attractions.

Book With The Vacationeer To Get a Credit Toward Excursions in These Ports

How Many Disney Cruises to Hawaii Are There?

In comparison with other Disney Cruise Line destinations, Hawaii has significantly fewer sailings than other itineraries. There are typically two to four Disney Cruises visiting Hawaii each year .

Due to the small number of cruises, it is essential to book your trip as early as possible since there are only a limited number of staterooms available. The Vacationeer can help you pick out the perfect Disney cruise based on your budget and preferences.

How Long Are Disney’s Hawaii Cruises?

Disney Cruise Line offers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning beauty of Hawaii through a limited number of Hawaiian cruises. Disney Hawaiian cruises usually last 9-10 nights, while South Pacific Cruises (which also include Hawaii) last around 15 nights .

Experienced and adventurous cruisers may prefer these extended Disney cruises to Hawaii and Disney South Pacific cruises, spending more time in Disney’s Hawaiian ports of call and aboard the magnificent Disney Wonder out at sea. First-time Disney cruisers , however, may find the shorter Disney cruises from Florida to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island , a better choice, as it offers a glimpse of Disney’s magical experiences without the commitment of an extended trip while still being in a sunny tropical setting.

Since availability is limited, it’s important to act quickly to secure your spot on one of these exclusive cruises. The Vacationeer can provide expert trip-planning guidance to ensure you choose the perfect Disney cruise that fits your budget and preferences. They can also keep you informed about future Disney Cruise Line Hawaiian cruise itineraries. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them with any inquiries – they’re friendly, and their services are free!

How Much Do Disney Cruises to Hawaii Cost?

Guests are often pleasantly surprised at how much value they receive on Disney cruises, and these Hawaiian cruises are no exception.

For example, the March 2024 10-Night Hawaiian Cruise from Honolulu to Vancouver starts at $5,200 .

The cost of your Disney Hawaiian cruise depends on the stateroom type you choose and the number of people in your party. More luxurious staterooms generally begin at a higher price than those in the Inside tier. Adding more than two people to your reservation will also increase the cost.

For instance, if you have a family of four, an Inside stateroom starts at around $7,500. And if you want to upgrade to the Verandah category, which offers spectacular ocean views, it starts at around $7,800 for two people — and roughly $11,400 for four.

It’s important to note that prices and availability are subject to change, so it’s always wise to check with The Vacationeer for the most up-to-date information.

Also don’t forget to factor in airfare; these cruises are typically one-way voyages which do not return to the original departure port. You’ll almost certainly need to purchase “open jaw” airfare, with one leg of the flight being as far away as Canada or possibly even Australia.

Disney Hawaiian Cruises: What’s Included in the Price?

Disney cruises are all-inclusive , which is a selling point and a place where value is found. Dining, entertainment, activities, and services are all included in the price, as are character meet-and-greets, movie screenings, Broadway-quality shows, water activities, and fireworks.

Oceaneer Club, Edge, and Vibe provide complimentary activities for children and teens. At the same time, adults can access a range of amenities such as an adult-only pool, nightclub, and fitness center.

Moreover, the price of a Disney cruise includes port expenses, taxes, and fees, making it an exceptional value for families. However, keep in mind that airfare, gratuities , specialty restaurants, spas, shore excursions (Port Adventures), bottled beverages, and alcohol purchased on a Disney cruise aren’t covered.

Want to Calculate Your Exact Price? Contact The Vacationeer

About the Disney Wonder Cruise Ship in Hawaii

The Disney Wonder cruise ship offers Hawaiian cruises and South Pacific cruises each year, with departures from Vancouver, Honolulu, and Sydney. Launched in 1999, this ship can accommodate 2,400 passengers in 875 staterooms and has a crew of 950. The vessel spans 974 ft in length and has a gross tonnage of 83,000.

Dining on Disney Wonder

Dining on the Disney Wonder is a unique experience, with guests rotating to a different restaurant each night while keeping the same table number and waitstaff throughout their voyage. The main restaurants include Triton’s , Tiana’s Place, and Animator’s Palate, which serve French cuisine, Southern cooking with live jazz, and contemporary cuisine with Disney characters, respectively. There are also a variety of other dining options, including a buffet-style restaurant, a sandwich and salad shop, a pizza place, and an adult-only Italian restaurant with live music called Palo.

Activities on Disney Wonder

Guests of all ages will find a wealth of activities onboard a Disney cruise . Disney Wonder attractions include Goofy’s Pool, AquaLab water playground, Frozen, A Musical Spectacular, and movies at the Buena Vista Theatre . Guests can also enjoy a fully-equipped fitness center, the luxurious Senses Spa and Salon , and various lounges and pubs, including the adults-only Crown & Fin Pub. Meanwhile, children can enjoy character meet and greets, and clubs tailored to all age groups, including the It’s a Small World Nursery, Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, Edge, and Vibe.

Staterooms on Disney Wonder

The Disney Wonder offers a range of staterooms to cater to different needs, preferences, and budgets. These include the Inside, Outside, Verandah, and Concierge stateroom categories. For a detailed understanding of the various options, check out our comprehensive guide on the Best Staterooms on a Disney Cruise . Alternatively, consult with an experienced Disney travel agent for further information about the room choices and voyages.

Overall, the Disney Wonder is one of the best ships in the Disney fleet , offering guests a unique and enjoyable cruising experience. Whether you’re traveling to Hawaii in the spring or fall, a Disney cruise aboard the Disney Wonder is always a magical experience at any time of year .

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About the Disney Hawaiian Cruise Terminals

Honolulu Harbor | Image © State of Hawaii

Disney’s 2024 and 2025 Hawaiian Cruises are all one-way cruises. Your cruise will start in either:

• Vancouver (British Columbia), Canada
• Honolulu, Hawaii
• Sydney, Australia

You’ll end in one of the remaining two ports.

Given that most travelers from the US will be traveling from either Honolulu or Vancouver, we’re focusing on these two ports below.

Disney Cruise Line Honolulu Terminal

During one-way Hawaiian cruises, Disney Cruise Line either departs or arrives at Honolulu Harbor (aka the Port of Honolulu). Located on the southern coast of Oahu Island, Honolulu is Hawaii’s largest seaport and capital city. The harbor is deep and protected, ideal for cruises.

Honolulu Harbor has two cruise terminals – the Aloha Tower Cruise Terminal (Pier 11) and Terminal Pier 2. Disney Cruise Line uses Pier 2, which offers modern passenger amenities and luggage storage for a nominal fee.

As the state’s principal airport, Honolulu International Airport offers regular domestic and international flights. It is easily accessible by Uber, taxi, or Oahu Island’s public transportation. The Port of Honolulu is about five miles from Honolulu International Airport.

What is Disney Cruise Line’s Address at the Honolulu Harbor?

Here is the Honolulu Harbor Port Terminal address:

Port of Honolulu Cruise Terminal Pier 2 521 Ala Moana Boulevard Honolulu, HI 96813

• (801) 450-7886 (questions about Pier 2 Cruise Terminal)
• 800-951-3532 (general Disney Cruise Line assistance)
• Contact The Vacationeer at 1-833-469-8747 for free, personalized assistance booking your Disney cruise.

Driving Directions to Disney’s Honolulu Cruise Ship Terminal (Pier 2)

Here are the 5 step driving directions from Honolulu International Airport to Honolulu Harbor’s Pier 2 for a Disney Hawaiian cruise:

• When you exit the airport, head southeast on Rodgers Blvd towards Aolele St.
• Turn left onto Aolele St and continue straight for about 1.6 miles.
• Use the right two lanes to turn right onto HI-92 E.
• Follow HI-92 E for about 3.9 miles and then turn left onto Channel St.
• Continue straight on Channel St for about 0.1 miles until you reach your destination. Port of Honolulu Pier 2 Cruise Terminal at 521 Ala Moana Blvd will be on your right.

Parking at Port of Honolulu (Pier 2) for Disney Hawaiian Cruises

If you’re considering going on a Disney Hawaiian cruise from the Port of Honolulu, it’s essential to be aware that there is no official parking available at the cruise terminal . Nevertheless, you can easily find rideshare, taxi, and shuttle services between the airport and the port, making transportation to the terminal much more convenient. These services can help you arrive at the port on time and without the added stress of finding parking. Additionally, since this is a one-way cruise, leaving your car at home may be more practical.

While parking at Pier 2 is unavailable, Aloha Tower Marketplace offers self-parking and valet parking for a flat daily rate after three hours. The address and contact information for Aloha Tower Marketplace is 1 Aloha Tower Dr, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813, and their phone number is 808-566-2337.

Those who need long-term parking can find it at Harbor Court for $21 per day. If you park here, you must take an Uber or taxi to the port, particularly if you have heavy luggage (Harbor Court is about a 10-minute walk or a five-minute drive from the cruise port). It is a covered parking lot. The address is Harbor Court, 847 Bethel Street, and the phone number is 808-522-1240.

Hotels with Shuttles to the Airport/Port Of Honolulu Cruise Terminal

The majority of Honolulu hotels don’t provide airport or port shuttle services, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation. However, a few hotels in the area offer shuttle services.

• Airport Honolulu Hotel (5.4 mi to cruise port) : The hotel offers a free airport shuttle service from 5 am to 1 am. A daily resort fee of $10 USD + tax per room includes the shuttle service. Shuttle transfers to the cruise terminal are not offered.
• Disney’s Aulani Resort (25 mi to cruise port) : Disney Cruise Line offers transfer services between Honolulu International Airport, Disney’s Honolulu Harbor Cruise Terminal Pier 2, and Disney’s Aulani Resort property for an additional fee. Contact The Vacationeer for details about the Aluani Resort and Disney shuttle service.

Restaurants Near Disney’s Port of Honolulu Cruise Ship Terminal

The following five restaurants are located near Disney’s Honolulu cruise terminal and are worth checking out before or after a Disney cruise:

• Bevy: Chic bar and restaurant serving creative cocktails and eclectic small plates.
• Highway Inn Kaka’ako : Hawaiian-style comfort food served in a casual setting.
• Honolulu Beerworks : Craft brewery and restaurant with a rotating selection of beers and pub-style food.
• Moku Kitchen : Contemporary Hawaiian cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients.
• Ruth’s Chris Steak House : Upscale chain restaurant known for its high-quality steaks and elegant atmosphere.

Disney Cruise Line Vancouver Terminal

The Disney Cruise Line uses the Port of Vancouver’s Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal as a departure/arrival point for their one-way Hawaiian cruises. The Vancouver terminal is owned and operated by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority and can host up to four cruise ships simultaneously. It is Canada’s busiest cruise port, welcoming over 900,000 passengers annually and around 300 ship calls per year.

The Cruise Ship Terminal at Canada Place is conveniently located 12 miles away from Vancouver International Airport and offers seamless access to the city’s many attractions and amenities. With multiple transportation options available, it serves as an optimal departure point for embarking on a Disney cruise to Hawaii (or disembarking).

What is Disney Cruise Line’s Address at the Port of Vancouver?

The Port of Vancouver cruise terminal address for Disney Cruise Line is:

Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal 999 Canada Place Vancouver, BC V6C 3E1, Canada

• 1-604-665-9000 (questions about Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal)
• 1-800-951-3532 (general Disney Cruise Line assistance)

Driving Directions to Disney’s Vancouver Cruise Terminal at Canada Place

Here are the directions to Disney’s Vancouver Cruise Terminal at Canada Place:

From U.S./Canada border:

• Take I-5 north and continue on BC-99
• Cross Oak Street Bridge
• Turn left on 49th Avenue and then right on Granville Street
• Proceed north across Granville Street Bridge
• Take the Seymour Street exit and continue north on Seymour Street to West Cordova Street
• Turn left on West Cordova Street, followed by a right on Howe Street
• You now face Canada Place

From Vancouver International Airport:

• Exit the airport via Grant McConachie Way
• Cross Arthur Laing Bridge in the right lane
• Take the Granville Street exit and proceed north down Granville Street
• Follow the directions above from Granville Street Bridge

Public transportation:

• Take Canada Line (SkyTrain) from YVR-Airport Station Eastbound
• Get off at Waterfront Station (terminus station) and exit station
• Walk westbound on Cordova Street
• Turn right at Howe Street and follow the sidewalk to the Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal

Parking at Port of Vancouver (Canada Place) for Disney Hawaiian Cruises

Here are some tips for parking at the official Port of Vancouver (Canada Place) for a Disney cruise in Vancouver.

Official Port of Vancouver (Canada Place) Cruise Terminal Parking Garage

Operated by Indigo Park Canada, this covered parking facility caters to the needs of cruise line passengers, including those on Disney Cruise Line. With 770 parking spaces, it’s open 24/7 and provides the best parking experience in the area in terms of convenience and reliability.

Short-Term Parking: Free

Short-term parking is available for cruise passengers, with separate areas for pick-up and drop-off. Vehicles parked for under 15 minutes are free.

Long-Term Cruise Parking: $234.89 CAD per week

Long-term parking costs $234.89 CAD per week or $33.50 CAD per day (roughly $25 USD) . Enter at the Howe Street ramp, take a ticket, and park on levels P1 or P2. The garage accommodates vehicles up to 6’9″. Reserve at Indigo’s website or call 604-669-7275.

Hotels with Parking or Shuttles to Port of Vancouver’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal

Several Vancouver hotels offer cruise packages that include parking or shuttle services. Consider staying at one of these hotels the night before (or after) your cruise to relax and explore the city.

• Pan Pacific Hotel (0.1 mi to cruise port) : The Pan Pacific Hotel’s Cruise Package includes a luxurious one-night stay with breakfast for two in Oceans 999, complimentary luggage transfer to Canada Place Pier/cruise ship, direct elevator access to the cruise ship terminal, on-site cruise ship parking, and complimentary WiFi. It is possible to add additional nights.
• Lowden Hotel (0.62 mi to cruise port) : This luxury boutique hotel offers a free shuttle service to the cruise terminal. It’s an excellent choice for a comfortable and stylish pre-cruise stay.
• Atrium Vancouver Inn (3.5 mi to cruise port) : The Stay and Park Package lets you park your car for up to seven days and enjoy complimentary shuttle transportation to the cruise terminal.

Please note that offers and availability are subject to change, so it’s best to contact the hotels directly or speak with a Disney travel planner at The Vacationeer for more information.

Restaurants Near Port of Vancouver (Canada Place) Cruise Terminal

If you’re feeling hungry upon arrival or departure from Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal, you may be wondering where to grab a delicious meal. Look no further than these seven Vancouver restaurants:

• Cactus Club Cafe Coal Harbour : Enjoy upscale casual dining with a West Coast flair and a waterfront view.
• Chewies Steam & Oyster Bar : Savor fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes in a cozy, rustic setting.
• Chop Steakhouse & Bar : Enjoy perfectly cooked steaks and other mouth-watering dishes in an elegant setting.
• Miku Vancouver : Sample fresh and flavorful sushi and Japanese-inspired dishes at this modern restaurant with waterfront views.
• Steamworks Brewpub : Indulge in pub fare and locally crafted beer in a lively atmosphere at this brewery.
• Top Of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and mountains while dining on gourmet cuisine.
• Water St. Café : Experience Pacific Northwest cuisine made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients at this intimate restaurant.

For quick fast-food options, there’s a nearby McDonald’s and Tim Horton’s within walking distance.

Airports for Disney Cruises in Hawaii

A Disney Hawaiian cruise usually requires flights for Vancouver, Canada and Honolulu, Hawaii. Here’s what you need to know about flying to or from each city.

Which Hawaii Airport Should I Use for a Disney Hawaiian Cruise?

When planning a Hawaii Disney cruise vacation that starts in Honolulu, we recommend flying into Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) . This airport, also known as Honolulu International Airport, is the largest airport in Hawaii and serves as the primary airport for the island of Oahu.

Disney cruises depart from Pier 2 at the Port of Honolulu, approximately 5 miles from the airport. To reach your hotel or the cruise terminal, you can choose from various transportation options available at the airport, including taxis, Ubers, and public or private transportation services.

Once you arrive at the cruise terminal, you can check in and board your ship to start your Hawaiian adventure with Disney Cruise Line.

How Do I Get from Honolulu Airport to Disney’s Cruise Port Terminal?

You can travel between Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and the Port of Honolulu in the following ways:

Ridesharing (Uber/Lyft):

• Convenient with app
• Cheap and direct
• The best option for most people
• A hassle-free way to travel
• Rides take roughly 20 to 40 minutes

Private and shared shuttles:

• Roberts Hawaii Private Car Services : Shuttle services start at $25, and private shuttle services start at $180.
• Elite Town Car Service : Only offers private options.

City bus (TheBus):

• Bus stops at the airport on the second level along the center median
• It takes about 30 minutes to reach the cruise terminal

Rental cars:

• Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Hertz Rent-A-Car
• Available before or after the cruise

Disney Ground Transfers:

Disney Cruise Line offers a convenient shuttle service for ground transportation to ensure a seamless experience for guests from start to finish. Guests can take advantage of this service for a fee between the Honolulu airport, Disney’s Aulani Resort, and the cruise port. Additionally, Hele Hele Shuttle partners with Disney to offer transfers between Disney’s Aulani Resort and the Honolulu Airport for $25 per person.

If you would like to add air travel, ground transportation, or a hotel stay to your Disney Cruise Line package, you can either contact Disney Cruise Line directly or work with a Disney travel planner like The Vacationeer .

What Is the Uber Fare From the Airport to Disney’s Honolulu Cruise Terminal?

Uber fares from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) to Disney’s Pier 2 Cruise Ship Terminal at Honolulu Harbor vary depending on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle selected. The estimated prices are $19.16 for Uber X or Uber Green and $34.12 for Uber XL . However, surge pricing, traffic, and other factors may affect the final fare, and these estimates do not include tips.

How Much are Taxis from the Airport to Port of Honolulu’s Pier 2?

Taxis are readily available at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) for travel to the Port of Honolulu’s Pier 2 Cruise Terminal. However, it’s important to note that they are generally more expensive than ridesharing services such as Uber X and Uber Green. According to recent estimates, a taxi ride from HNL to the Disney Honolulu Cruise Terminal costs $44.71 , excluding tips. This amount is higher than what you’d pay for Uber X (but comparable to Uber XL fares).

Which Vancouver Airport Should I Use for a Disney Hawaiian Cruise?

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the best airport to fly into for a Disney Hawaiian cruise that begins in Vancouver . YVR is just 9.5 miles (15.3 kilometers) from the terminal and offers various transportation options, including Uber, taxis, shuttles, limos, public transit, and car rentals.

The airport is known for its excellent restaurants, lounges, and shops, providing passengers with a relaxing and refreshing experience before or after their journey. YVR’s convenience, transportation options, and amenities make it an ideal place to begin or end a Disney Hawaiian cruise.

How Do I Get from Vancouver Airport to Disney’s Canada Place Terminal?

Ways to get from Vancouver Airport to Canada Place Terminal:

• Ridesharing apps (Uber, Lyft) are popular and affordable.
• Taxis are available but more expensive than ridesharing.
• Public transit via Canada Line Rapid Transit SkyTrain takes 26 minutes and costs approximately $8-$10 per person per trip.
• Renting a car is possible but unnecessary as many transportation alternatives are available.
• Disney Cruise Line offers a ground transportation shuttle service for a hassle-free experience from start to finish. The service costs $25 per guest ($50 roundtrip). Transfers are available for a fee between the airport, hotel, and cruise port. Guests should make their reservations in advance. Contact Disney Cruise Line or a Disney travel planner for more information.

If you wish to add air travel, ground transportation, or a hotel stay to your Disney cruise package, we suggest working with a Disney travel planner like The Vacationeer .

What is the Uber Fare From Vancouver Airport to Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal?

Uber fares from Vancouver Airport to Disney’s Canada Place Cruise Terminal depend on how far you travel and what type of vehicle you choose. The estimated cost is $29.32 for Uber X or Uber Green and $45.55 for Uber XL . The final fare may be affected by surge pricing, traffic, and other factors. Tips are not included in these estimates.

These calculations suggest that Uber X or Uber Green is the best way to save money on Disney cruise transportation.

How Much are Taxis from the Airport to the Port of Vancouver?

Taxis are readily available at the airport to take you to the Canada Place pier in Vancouver. However, they are generally pricier than ridesharing services like Uber X and Uber Green. As evidence, the estimated cost of a taxi ride from YVR to the Disney Canada Place Cruise Terminal is $45.35 (excluding tips).

How Much Does the Disney Shuttle Cost From the Airport to the Cruise Port?

For those seeking a stress-free and convenient mode of transportation between Vancouver International Airport and Disney’s Cruise Port at Canada Place, the Disney ground transportation service may be a viable option. It ensures a seamless Disney experience from the moment you step off the plane until you return to the airport.

Disney’s Vancouver shuttle service is available for $25 for a one-way trip (or $50 for a round trip) . It does cost more than a taxi or Uber, especially for families or groups of more than two, but the convenience and peace of mind associated with the Disney brand could be worth it.

Contact The Vacationeer for information on Disney cruises to Hawaii, including ground transportation through Disney Cruise Line.

Bundle Your Cruise, Hotel, and Ground Transit Into a Single, Carefree Package

Hotels For Disney Hawaiian Cruises

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa | Image © Disney

For a hassle-free start or end to your Disney Hawaiian cruise, we suggest spending an additional day in port at the beginning and end of your cruise to explore the local attractions (and avoid missing your cruise or flight in the event of delays). Select from these excellent hotels near the airport and port for a seamless pre- or post-cruise stay.

Honolulu Cruise Hotels

Official disney pre/post cruise hotel:.

Guests can enhance their Disney cruise experience by combining it with pre- or post-cruise accommodations at Disney’s only affiliated hotel in Hawaii – Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina.

Aulani is located between the mountains and the ocean on Oahu and offers luxurious accommodations and excellent Disney service. This resort perfectly embodies the island’s beauty, culture, and hospitality and features various Disney-themed activities and entertainment, including encounters with beloved Disney Characters and themed pools.

Shuttle and taxi services are available to and from the cruise terminal and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, which is approximately 20 miles away.

For more information about booking Disney Cruise Line partner hotels in Hawaii or Vancouver before or after your Disney cruise, please contact The Vacationeer .

Other Nearby Hotels:

These hotels near Disney’s cruise terminal are ideal for pre or post-Disney Hawaiian cruises:

• Airport Honolulu Hotel : Simple option near the airport with low-key rooms, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a free airport shuttle. The resort fee ($10) covers the airport shuttle but not cruise transfers. The hotel is 0.2 mi from Honolulu Airport and 5 mi from downtown.
• Pagoda Hotel : Affordable 2-star near Honolulu Harbor (2.4 mi from Disney’s Pier 2 Cruise Terminal) with daily resort fee covering the outdoor pool, sundeck, internet access, and local shuttle. It features a floating Japanese/Hawaiian fusion restaurant and pond with koi feedings. There is an additional charge for parking.
• Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort : 4-star upscale option 2.4 mi from Disney’s terminal with 20 dining options, five pools, a saltwater lagoon, a spa, and a fitness room, offering snorkeling, hula dancing lessons, and a kids’ program. A resort fee applies.

Vancouver Cruise Hotels

Official disney pre/post cruise hotels:.

You can combine your Disney cruise reservation with pre- or post-cruise accommodations at three Disney affiliate hotels in Vancouver.

• Fairmont Vancouver Airport : Enjoy luxury amenities and stunning views at this fully soundproofed hotel located inside the airport. Only 9 miles from the Port of Vancouver, it’s an excellent choice for a hassle-free stay.
• Fairmont Waterfront : Located in a prime harbor-front location, this hotel is within walking distance of popular attractions like Gastown and Stanley Park. Guests departing for Hawaii on Disney Cruise Line can take advantage of luggage-only transfers and then simply cross the street on foot to reach the terminal.
• Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel : Stay at this upscale hotel just two blocks from Disney’s cruise ship terminal and within easy reach of the airport. Enjoy spacious accommodations and nearby attractions like Stanley Park and Gastown.

Contact The Vacationeer for more information about booking a room at a Disney Cruise Line partner hotel before or after your Disney Hawaiian cruise.

• Pan Pacific Vancouver : This hotel offers stunning views and elegant décor and is located atop Canada Place’s cruise terminals. Guests can enjoy upscale amenities, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, a spa, and casual and fine dining options. And when it’s time to board the ship, the only transportation you need is the hotel elevator!
• Days Inn by Wyndham Vancouver Downtown : Just a 5-minute walk from Canada Place, this hotel offers easy access to the cruise port and the Waterfront SkyTrain station for transportation to the airport. Rooms feature free WiFi, TVs, and coffeemakers, and children stay free with a paying adult. Suites are available for larger groups.
• Auberge Vancouver : A short 5-minute walk from Canada Place, this hotel offers luxury accommodations in a great location. Splurge for a King Harbour View Suite and watch cruise ships and sea planes come and go all day long, viewed from the wall-to-wall windows of your trendy apartment-style suite. Hungry? Ring up room service for a some UK-inspired Pub Fare (and a proper poutine!) prepared by the Lions Pub downstairs.
• Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel : Located just a 6-minute walk from Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal, this hotel features comfortable rooms with city views, an indoor pool, a whirlpool, a sauna, a gym, and a chic restaurant with bar.

Are You Ready to Book Your Disney Hawaiian Cruise?

Is there anything else you need to know about Disney Hawaiian cruises? Would you like to make a reservation? Look no further than The Vacationeer , an Earmarked Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner . With their extensive experience planning trips to Disney destinations, they can help you find the perfect Disney cruise itinerary for your family or romantic getaway.

With The Vacationeer , you’ll have a dedicated agent to handle every aspect of your trip , so you won’t need to deal with multiple agents. They can assist you with everything from finding the cheapest month to cruise , securing last-minute Disney cruise deals , understanding tipping policies , and finding discounts on your Disney cruise package. They work tirelessly to ensure you find the perfect cruise that meets your vacation goals at the best possible price.

But that’s not all! The Vacationeer also offers onboard cruise credit as a booking bonus. This credit can be used as free money on your Disney cruise for expenses not covered in the base cost. It’s just one more reason why working with The Vacationeer is so valuable.

Planning and booking your Disney cruise has never been easier with the help of The Vacationeer . You can trust their expertise to manage all the details and logistics for you.

Best of all, their services are completely free , so don’t hesitate to ask them anything you wish about Disney cruises to Hawaii! Request a free quote today, and they will respond promptly.

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Disney Cruise Line Changes Early Booking Dates For Hawaii Cruises

Are you planning a cruise with Disney Cruise Line ?

There are so many places to travel on a Disney cruise including  Hawaii and the South Pacific.  If you’re planning a cruise to the area, though, Disney just made a BIG announcement about changes to the early booking dates.

Early booking dates for the all-new cruises to Hawaii and the South Pacific, including cruises to and from Australia , have changed to October 10th– 13th, 2022 . Platinum Castaway Club Members and Golden Oak Members will be able to book on October 10th. Gold Castaway Club Members can book on October 11th.

Silver Castaway Club Members, eligible Disney Vacation Club Members, and Adventure Insiders can book on October 12th. Finally, all guests can book a cruise to Hawaii and the South Pacific on October 13th.

Cruises include a 13-Night South Pacific Cruise from Honolulu ending in Sydney, a 15-Night South Pacific Cruise from Sydney ending in Honolulu, a 10-Night Hawaiian Cruise from Vancouver ending in Honolulu, and a 10-Night Hawaiian Cruise from Honolulu ending in Vancouver.

Are you new to cruising? Here’s what you need to know about cruising with Disney .

We’ve also got a full rundown about cruising on the newest ship in Disney’s fleet, the Wish .

Join the AllEars.net Newsletter  to stay on top of ALL the breaking Disney News! You'll also get access to AllEars tips, reviews, trivia, and MORE! Click here to Subscribe!

Are you looking into a Hawaii cruise with Disney Cruise Line? Let us know in the comments!

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Disney Cruise vs. Disney Aulani: Which Vacation is Right For Your Family?

By: Author Leslie Harvey

Posted on Published: April 25, 2023

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You’ve been to Walt Disney World or Disneyland. Or maybe both! You are looking to take another Disney vacation but maybe with a bit of a twist to change it up this time. Most Disney-loving families turn next to a cruise vacation aboard Disney Cruise Line or a trip to Hawaii to Aulani, Disney’s resort on the island of O’ahu.

I hear a lot from friends and readers who aren’t sure whether Aulani or a Disney Cruise is the best next step in their Disney travels. I’ve had the good fortune to try both on multiple occasions over the years, experiencing them with my kids at different ages and stages.

Both are travel experiences I’d highly recommend. Although this post pits Aulani vs. Disney Cruise, there really isn’t a winner and loser here. Rather, one trip may simply be better suited to the ages of your kids or the way your family likes to travel. What I hope to do is point out those sweet spots where you are likely to get more out of doing one of these trips compared to the other.

But if budget allows and you have the interest, I sincerely hope Disney-loving families eventually do both!

Check out some of my introductory posts to DCL and Aulani first if you don’t know all the basics:

• Mistakes I Made on My First Disney Cruise
• Comprehensive Review of Disney’s Aulani Resort
• Tips for Disney Cruise Line with Toddlers and Preschoolers
• Disney Aulani Splurges Worth the Money

(Trips With Tykes uses affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through links in this post. See our full disclosure policy linked in the menu at the bottom of this site.)

Similarities Between Disney Cruise Line & Aulani

Before I dive into the differences between these two vacations, let’s start with the similarities. Disney Aulani (which opened in Ko Olina on O’ahu in 2011) was very much modeled after Disney Cruise Line (which launched in 1998). In fact, Aulani was designed to bring much of the Disney Cruise experience to land. So it’s not surprising that the two have a lot more in common than they have different.

Both are luxury-level (translation: expensive) Disney vacations. If you are used to doing Disney on the cheap by staying in a value resort or an inexpensive off-property hotel at Disney World or Disneyland, you probably aren’t going to be able to do that with either Aulani or Disney Cruise.

To be sure, there are certainly ways to reduce the costs of both Aulani and DCL. But be realistic about the total bill you are going to be facing with either of these vacations.

Both Disney Cruise Line and Aulani offer a vacation experience that is very different from the Disney parks. A trip to Disney World or Disneyland means a lot of walking and logistics navigating theme park lines day after day. You’ll find a totally different daily schedule on an Aulani or DCL vacation.

The footprint and scope of both Aulani and the Disney Cruise ships are smaller. There are no attractions to ride. You can plan much less if you prefer. If you want to spend a day lounging by a pool or visiting a spa, there’s time for that. In fact, that’s really the point of these vacations.

Of course, there’s amazing Disney service and lots of Disney entertainment and characters to experience if you wish. But there’s far less theme park rat race. (Although I can’t promise you won’t encounter crowds and lines in several situations!)

Disney Cruise Line vs. Disney Aulani: Key Differences to Consider

So now on to the differences that matter between these two kinds of vacations. What factors should you consider in picking which one is right for you?

Where Are You Located?

Location, location, location. For families with limited vacation times and sometimes limited patience with little ones on planes, minimizing travel time is often an important factor in making vacation decisions.

For fellow West Coast families, the logistics of getting to Hawaii can be quite simple. And they are even simpler and cheaper now that Southwest Airlines has been flying to Hawaii the last several years. I’m a California girl and can travel to Hawaii on an easy 5 hour flight. As a result, Aulani feels “close” to me.

For families in the Midwest or on the East Coast, however, visiting Aulani is more of a challenge. A Hawaii trip can require multiple plane connections, maybe a redeye flight, and some serious jet lag and time zone changes. That may not be how you want to spend vacation – especially with babies or toddlers. I get it.

The majority of Americans will be much closer to a Disney Cruise Line vacation than an Aulani one. In that case, Disney Cruise may be a smarter choice. DCL currently has five ships (the Disney Magic, the Disney Wonder, the Disney Dream, the Disney Fantasy, and the new Disney Wish). There are two more on the way (the Disney Treasure and a yet-to-be-named ship that will be Asia-based). Chances are one is stationed closer to you. Itineraries currently include the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, the West Coast of Mexico (Mexican Riviera), Australia, and several more.

Within just North America, cruises set sail out of Florida (Port Canaveral near Orlando, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), Galveston, New Orleans, San Diego, Vancouver, and New York City. Indeed, even as close as Aulani is for me, DCL’s San Diego sailings are much closer!

How Flexible Is Your Travel Schedule?

Even though DCL sailings are closer geographically, there is one countervailing factor to consider. Cruise itineraries start and end only on specific days. As a result, it may be harder to find a DCL sailing that fits your ideal schedule constraints. This is especially true given the fact that most travelers fly in a day before a cruise starts to minimize the risk of a flight delay making them miss the ship.

We are encountering just this very challenge as we plan for our Thanksgiving travels. One of my kids doesn’t have the full week off of school this year. We found there simply isn’t a Disney cruise that we could travel to and sail on in the time allotted without having her miss at least one day of school.

Related: Tips for Missing School to Travel

In contrast, Aulani offers the ultimate in flexibility. Guests can arrive and depart on any day of the year at any time. This has meant we’ve been able to squeeze in a visit to Aulani even on a long weekend where a nearby cruise simply wouldn’t have aligned with the kids’ school holidays. So for travelers who need flexibility, Aulani may ultimately be the more flexible of the two.

Do You Want a More All-Inclusive Experience?

Many families prefer to take all-inclusive vacations. They can take a lot of the guess work out of budgeting. Others much prefer to pay a la carte for what they actually consume and value. (For what it’s worth, I’m pretty ambivalent personally about this choice. I usually find myself on a la carte vacations most of the time.)

If you are the type of traveler who values the all-inclusive model, Disney Cruise Line is much closer to an all-inclusive vacation than Aulani. Food and a number of on-board activities and entertainment options are included in the cost of a cruise. There are extras like many drinks, shore excursions, and tips to watch out for, but they are fewer and farther between.

Aulani, on the other hand, is much more like a standard resort vacation. You pay for the room, but all of the food and drinks are an additional expense. Aulani has number of free activities like the amazing pools, waterslides, lazy river, and beach (and kids club – more on that below). But most of the premium experiences cost extra, including an evening show, Aulani’s Ka Wa’a Luau . And as you might imagine, everything else is simply more expensive in Hawaii.

Does Anyone in Your Family Get Motion Sickness?

This may seem like a small consideration but it matters in a big way. There is a small portion of the population for whom cruising is just not a realistic vacation choice thanks to motion sickness or related health issues.

I have a friend who took her 8 year old on a Disney Cruise for the first time only to discover that his stomach was radically incompatible with cruising. He was terribly seasick on the ship for four days straight. In fact, they headed straight to the ER to rehydrate him after docking. He didn’t have any history of other types of motion sickness so this reaction was quite an unfortunate surprise.

It’s impossible to know for sure whether any of your family members will be affected by cruises until you take one. The vast majority of people who don’t already have known motion sickness or related problems will be fine on any cruise, especially with a little Dramamine or SeaBands for backup. I personally have vertigo and have no problems even on small ships in big waves, although my father with Meniere’s disease can no longer cruise. But if this worries you and you have not cruised before, I’d steer clear of a long open water DCL itinerary as your first trip. It’s not much of a vacation for anyone if even one member of the family feels poorly.

If you have someone with known motion sickness issues of any significance, a cruise may be a gamble you just don’t want to take.

Do You Have a Big Family or Need more Space?

If you have more than two kids, you are probably already used to the challenge of standard hotel rooms. Most of them are built for four – if that. Upgrading to larger accommodations or even booking two rooms brings major increased costs.

Big families will likely find that both Aulani and Disney Cruise Line present the usual challenges. As you can probably imagine, however, space is a little easier to come by on land than on sea. Larger suites and condos are ultimately a bit more readily available at Aulani.

Aulani has some more flexible options for larger families because of its abundance of Disney Vacation Club (DVC) villas ( Related : Find out how we rented at Aulani using DVC points and saved big  or rent from David’s Vacation Club Rentals yourself). One bedroom villas sleep up to 5 people. Families of 6 or more will need to upgrade to the two or three bedroom villas. To be sure, these premium rooms do not come cheap. But the villas have full kitchens and washer/dryers that make them very convenient and even cost-effective for larger families.

Disney Cruise Line does have some options that work for bigger families as well. DCL ships have a number of cabins that sleep 5. They are more limited in supply and may sell out before the rest of the cabins do, so early planning is required. And they are a tight squeeze even when you can find them.

Many larger families often opt to book two connecting cabins on Disney Cruise Line for more space. This limits the cabin types available to you depending on the ship, but can work well. And on cheaper itineraries like those in the Caribbean, this strategy often isn’t prohibitively expensive, although it can be to some destinations.

Do You Want or Need Childcare?

Both Disney Cruise ships and Disney’s Aulani Resort have complimentary kids clubs. (Truthfully, the clubs are built into the cost of the room/cabin. But I prefer to celebrate them as free.) While some of the DCL and Aulani childcare offerings used to be similar, that is not really the case anymore. It’s important to get up to speed on what the parameters are in 2023 to determine what will work best for your childcare needs.

Disney Cruise Line offers two connecting kids clubs, the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, included in the cruise cost. Kids ages 3-12 are permitted to visit as long as they are potty trained. No reservations are required, and I’ve never yet seen a club reach capacity. The clubs are open for long hours that give parents a lot of flexibility any time of the day.

All the DCL ships also have a nursery aboard in addition to the kids clubs. The nursery takes kids from 6 months old through age 3 (note that 3 year olds can do either the Oceaneer Club & Lab or the nursery). At $9 per hour, this childcare option isn’t free, but it’s a good value for what it offers.

Aulani has never had a nursery for babies and toddlers like Disney Cruise Line, but it does have a kids club called Aunty’s Beach House . Aunty’s used to operate much more like Disney Cruise Line’s clubs. Parents could drop kids off on a whim for any length of time. Unfortunately, it no longer works this way in 2023.

Aunty’s currently admits kids ages 4-12 only (it used to take 3 years olds too). Reservations are essential and book up weeks in advance online. Kids are limited to one free 90 minute pre-set session per day, at either 8am, 10am, or noon. Aunty’s also is not open in the evenings, so it’s not an option for parents who want to use it for an adults-only date night.

My kids adored Aunty’s in the pre-2020 times. You can probably sense my frustration at the current pared back state of affairs. If you need or want meaningful included childcare, Aulani’s offering doesn’t make the grade at the moment. If you simply want a break from the kids here and there and can plan ahead, it will suit just fine.

The bottom line? If you have a baby or toddler who is younger than 4, there is no Disney-operated childcare option for you at Aulani. And for kids 4-12, the options are more limited at Aulani than on Disney Cruise Line. If you are like my family and often use kids clubs, this difference between Aulani and DCL can be a crucial tie-breaker.

Trips With Tykes Tip : Need a sitter for younger kids or a date night at Aulani? There’s an outside service we recommend with background checked nannies that serves the resort. Find out more about Nanny-Land’s services here and be sure to use Crown Code: TWT for $80 in savings off the registration fee.

Do You Have Teens?

When I first published this post, my kids were still in elementary school, so I had no experience yet with the teenage point of view on Aulani and DCL. But I just recently took a Disney cruise with my daughter for her 14th birthday and we visited Aulani a few months before that. So I grilled her hard on what she thought about both experiences for teens.

Both offer a safe atmosphere where parents can let teens roam and explore independently. While Aulani will always be her first love, she thought Disney Cruise Line currently delivers far more for the teen set.

Disney Cruises simply have so much more for teens to do. They have an abundance of night time programming and exclusive tween/teen clubs, Edge and Vibe. At Aulani, there used to be some programming for teens before 2020, but it hasn’t returned to the schedule. In my experience, Aulani appears to be drawing more families with little ones in recent years than it did before, so there may not be the demand for it ever to return. On our last trip to Aulani, we had a lot of family bonding and fun together, but my daughter grew a little restless not having an organized way to meet kids her age.

That said, Aulani would still work well for teens on a vacation with extended family and friends and built-in socialization. But DCL is better when traveling with just your immediate family because it is easier for teens to make and meet friends on board.

The verdict? If you have an active teen who likes to socialize, the safer bet is DCL. Further reading from fellow travel bloggers who have done both vacations with teens too:

• Guide to Aulani with teens
• What parents of teens will love about Disney Cruises

Do You Have a Passport?

As someone who has been lucky to travel internationally since I was a child, I sometimes forget that most Americans don’t have passports! At $130 per adult and $100 per child in 2023 (+ a $35 acceptance fees for new applicants), they are a big cost that can really add to a trip’s budget.

You obviously don’t need passports at all for an Aulani vacation (for the geographically challenged – yes, Hawaii is a US state). But passports are needed or at least highly advised for most Disney Cruise Line itineraries.

Technically, there are a few exceptions. You and/or your kids may be able to make do with a passport card (only $65) or ID and birth certificate if you are taking a closed loop cruise to many Caribbean countries, Canada or Mexico.

But I don’t recommend this approach at all. If your ship is diverted to a new port due to weather, you might not be able to get off. It’s also risky to travel internationally without a standard passport in the case of a medical or family emergency.

So, if you and your kids are not yet passport holders, definitely factor the cost of a passport into your Disney Cruise Line vacations as you make your travel decisions!

Do You Want to Do More than Disney?

One of the reasons many vacationers choose an Aulani or Disney Cruise Line vacation is that they offer so much more than Disney travel. They come with tried and true Disney service and amenities that families can trust to meet their travel needs. But they aren’t merely a theme park vacation. They are both much more focused on the destination.

It is certainly possible to do either of these vacations and stay entirely within the Disney bubble if you wish. You can go straight from Honolulu Airport to Aulani and never leave until it is time to go back to the airport. If you choose a DCL itinerary that doesn’t have many or any ports of call other than Castaway Cay (or if you don’t get off the ship!), you’ll have a mostly Disney-centric experience as well.

But it’s also possible to explore a lot more on either of these vacations. Aulani is a short skip and a hop away from Pearl Harbor. You can spend a day driving to the North Shore or visiting Waikiki Beach or hiking Diamond Head. You can even combine a few nights of an Aulani vacation with a stay elsewhere in the Hawaiian islands to both save money and see more sights.

And even if you do stay only within the resort, you’ll still learn plenty about the local culture. Disney has worked diligently to make Aulani authentically Hawaiian in its offerings. It’s more than just character meals and pixie dust.

With Disney Cruise Line you can quite literally see the world. Opt for a tropical vacation with a Caribbean or Mexican Riviera itinerary. Or you can explore culture and history in Europe or experience outdoor adventure in Alaska. The numerous options make a DCL trip even more of a destination-focused vacation that just happens to have magical Disney touches.

Frequently Asked Questions about Disney Cruises and Aulani

Still have questions about the Disney Cruise vs. Aulani debate? Here are a few more queries that may have crossed your mind.

Can I take a Disney Cruise TO Aulani?

If you want to have your cake and eat it too by taking a Disney Cruise that includes an Aulani vacation, is that possible? Not exactly.

As of 2023, Disney has added Hawaii to its cruising schedule, but only in a very limited fashion. One ship, the Disney Wonder, stops in Hawaii as it repositions from its summer Alaska itineraries down to Australia in the fall (and then as it returns to the West Coast in spring 2024).

The ship doesn’t stop at Aulani (and in fact, only the fall itinerary includes Honolulu). And these one way trips are 10 days each and quite pricey.

Conceivably, you could DIY an itinerary to do both DCL and Aulani, as follows:

• Depart on the Disney Wonder on October 3, 2023 from Vancouver to Hawaii.
• Debark the Disney Wonder on October 13, 2023 in Honolulu.
• Transfer to Aulani for a stay of several nights.

But realistically, this isn’t going to work for the vast majority of family travelers. Sorry to disappoint!

What costs more: a Disney cruise or an Aulani vacation?

As you can probably imagine, there is no definitive answer to this question. A lot depends on the date you would like to travel. And for cruises, the price can vary based on the destinations involved and the ship.

To help illustrate general costs, I priced out sample 4 night vacations for a family of four on the same dates. Since Aulani doesn’t include food like DCL, I budgeted $250 for a family per day. Believe it or not, this is a reasonable Hawaii food budget if you plan to eat out most dinners but also plan to get some groceries or grab and go food at other times.

For a trip right after Labor Day this year (September 4-8, 2023), here is what the least expensive room/cabin runs for each:

• Disney Magic 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami (inside cabin): $3452
• Aulani $2242 (standard room with current 25% off fall discount) + $250/day food budget = $3242

Here’s another example for early next year (January 8-12, 2024) that includes higher end accommodations (a veranda cabin on Disney’s newest ship vs. a one bedroom villa at Aulani):

• Disney Wish 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral (veranda cabin): $5063
• Aulani $4100 (1 bedroom villa) + $250/day food budget = $5100

As you can see, the prices for Aulani and Disney Cruises are generally in the same ballpark. There are, however, some exceptions to this rule. For example, Disney Cruises to Alaska tend to be quite a bit more expensive than other cruise destinations. Disney Aulani also tends to run more published seasonal sales where you can sometimes snag a lower nightly room price if you are very flexible.

At Aulani, you can also book a shorter stay to save money. A lot of travelers on a budget who still want to experience Aulani may want to book a one or two night stay and spend additional nights at a more moderately priced hotel elsewhere on O’ahu. Disney Cruises in North America, in contrast, are a minimum of a three night price commitment.

And of course, you also have to consider airfare costs and other add-ons your family might want to experience when making the full cost comparison.

Aulani vs. Disney Cruise: The Final Word

Whatever you decide between Aulani or Disney Cruise Line, I’m fairly confident you will experience a memorable family vacation.

We have enjoyed our times immensely at each and plan to return to both. Aulani was probably a better fit for kids when they were preschoolers/grade school age and Disney Cruise is working a bit better now as our kids get into the teen years. But that could change as both DCL and Aulani make adjustments to their offerings.

Let me know which one your family is choosing (or has chosen) first and why!

Disney Cruise Line & Aulani Vacation Deals!

If you aren’t renting DVC points through David’s Vacation Club Rentals for the Aulani villas, consider using Trips With Tykes partner,  Get Away Today , to book your vacation package with additional perks. Get Away Today specializes in Disney travel and knows Aulani and Disney Cruise Line well (in addition to their bread and butter, Disneyland) so you can take advantage of their expert advice while snagging some deals.

For DCL, they’ll be able to score you the best in discounts and other perks. For Aulani, their agents constantly monitor new sales and will apply deals and discounts if they are announced after you make an initial booking. Search for your  Aulani vacation quote with Get Away Today here or use this link to browse Disney Cruise vacation options . (And if you prefer to talk to them on the phone, tell them Leslie at Trips With Tykes sent you).

Disclosure: Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, and Disney Cruise Line has provided my family with complimentary and/or discount accommodations and activities during some of our vacations to Aulani and aboard Disney Cruise Line. Most of our Aulani and DCL trips have been at our own expense. As always, all opinions are my own. 

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Sunday 16th of December 2018

I’m booked on the ten night Hawaii cruise in 2020. This will be my 8th Disney Cruise. Since this will be my first time to Hawaii and my husband and I are in our 60’s we felt this might be a good time to do the cruise and perhaps come back to visit Hawaii years after. It was a great article, thank you.

Joanne @ Travel Visa Australia

Tuesday 6th of November 2018

I like this guide, Thanks!

Anna Makridi

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

Monday 5th of November 2018

I would love to return to both, but prefer the variety of food and activity options on DCL, so will probably return to do that first.

The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

After decades of success making families smile and laugh at its theme parks, Disney dipped its toes into the world of cruising in 1998. Disney didn't just copy another cruise line's model for success or slap its name on the side of an existing ship. It created its own brand of cruising.

Disney went so far into charting its own path as to get special approval from the U.S. Coast Guard for its ships' lifeboats to be yellow instead of regulation orange, to tie into the colors of Mickey himself — black, red, white and yellow.

Now, Disney Cruise Line has five ships sailing in those signature colors, along with three more on order. In a normal year, those five ships take tens of thousands of families on sailings to the Caribbean , Mexico, Alaska, Europe, Bermuda, Bahamas, through the Panama Canal and even to Australia and New Zealand.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Having sailed four of Disney Cruise Line's five ships, I can say the experience is indeed special — especially if you have kids. But Disney's not a one-trick cruise line that's only good for one age group. It offers kids clubs and activities to suit babies through teens and has several adults-only areas of the ship . Its newest ship, Disney Wish , provides more cool spaces for adults than any previous vessel.

Disney's attention to detail transfers to its voyages on the sea. But unlike at the Disney theme parks, which can be a bit complicated to navigate, long lines and complex strategies are rarely a part of the Disney cruise experience.

Get the free planning help of a Disney vacation planner via TPG's partner, Mouse Counselors .

What TPG loves about Disney Cruise Line

• Broadway-caliber shows and first-run movies.
• Disney-level service and attention to detail.
• High-quality Disney character interactions and kids clubs.
• Innovative, included rotational dining.

What we could do without

• Disney cruises are expensive.
• The onboard Wi-Fi is not the fastest, especially on ships that haven't been upgraded. And it's not cheap.

Disney Cruise Line fleet

While Disney may be a household name, Disney Cruise Line is actually a small line. It currently sails just five ships, compared to 27 at its family-friendly competitor Royal Caribbean .

Of the five, two are smaller ships, and three are larger.

The largest ships in Disney's fleet are Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, at 1,115 feet long and 14 decks high, and Disney Wish , at 1,119 feet and 15 decks high.

These three ships each have a passenger capacity of 4,000 people spread out across approximately 1,250 cabins. The overwhelming majority of cabins on these ships have an ocean view or private verandah, with only 10%-12% being windowless inside cabins. (On its oldest four ships, these interior rooms have a "magical porthole" that displays a live feed from outside to replicate a window.)

Disney Treasure , expected to join the fleet in 2024, will be in the same larger Triton class of ships as Disney Wish.

Disney Wish is currently a workhorse of short three- and four-night sailings from Port Canaveral , Florida, to the Bahamas, home to Disney's private island , Castaway Cay.

Disney Fantasy often sails weeklong cruises out of Florida. With the addition of Disney Wish to the fleet, Disney Dream now spends its summer across the Atlantic, offering European cruises from May to September, then spending much of the rest of the year based out of Fort Lauderdale.

The smaller two ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet are Disney Wonder and the line's first ship, Disney Magic .

These two ships are 984 feet long and 11 decks high, and each has the capacity for 2,713 passengers across 875 staterooms. On these two smaller ships, 70% of passenger cabins have ocean views or verandahs.

Disney Wonder is often on the move and currently splits its time among Alaska , the South Pacific, Hawaii, California, Mexico and beyond. Disney Magic spends part of its year based out of Galveston, Texas, or New Orleans and much of the rest based out of Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

Related: Best destinations you can sail to on a Disney cruise

Disney Cruise Line destinations and itineraries

Disney Cruise Line has about 370 annual departures scheduled that range from two- to 15-night sailings. Many new-to-Disney itineraries have recently become available as the line is adding new ships for the first time in a decade.

Disney Cruise Line destinations include:

• New Zealand
• Pacific Coast
• South Pacific

Disney Wish has, by far, the highest number of annual sailings, with 105 three- and four-night cruises departing from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas. These sailings all go to Disney's private island, Castaway Cay; some also stop in Nassau, Bahamas.

Some Disney cruises do what's called a "double dip" and make two stops at the private island, where you can step ashore without leaving the Disney bubble.

Pro tip: If you go to Castaway Cay, rent a bike for a little exercise and a self-guided tour of the island. Or, you can run the at-your-pace 5K that morning around the island.

Coming in summer 2024 , Disney will have a second exclusive beach destination in the Bahamas — Lighthouse Point.

This won't be an entire private island like Castaway Cay, but it will be an exclusive beachfront space designed for Disney Cruise Line with many similar offerings to Castaway. Disney Magic, Disney Wonder and Disney Fantasy will call on this new destination for the first time in 2024.

Related: Best tips and tricks for sailing with Disney Cruise Line

Who sails Disney Cruise Line?

Let's start with the obvious: Families love Disney Cruise Line.

The ultimate sweet spot for taking a Disney cruise starts when a child is at least 3 years old and potty trained (the criteria that get them into the included kids clubs) and lasts until they outgrow their love of Disney characters. Remember, Disney now includes the "Star Wars" and Marvel brands and offers themed cruises featuring those characters, too.

A Disney cruise costs more than a similar cruise on a line like Royal Caribbean , so it's easiest to justify the expense when your kids love Disney the most.

So, yes, the stereotype that Disney Cruise Line is full of families is 100% correct.

You'll see many families with kids in those preschool, elementary and middle school years. But you'll also see families with little babies (the minimum age is 6 months on most sailings, 1 year on Panama Canal and transatlantic sailings), tweens, teens, college-age kids and even grandparents who have made a Disney cruise an enjoyable multigenerational travel tradition.

Related: Comparing Disney, Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruises for families

You'll also see cruisers who love Disney regardless of age and are proud to wear their Mickey ears while hearing the first seven notes of the "When You Wish Upon a Star" melody blown from the ship's massive horn.

Just like you don't need kids to have a great time at Disney World or Disneyland, you can happily cruise as adults without offspring on Disney Cruise Line. All the ships have active adults-only sun decks, pool and lounges. Disney Wish especially invested in its adult offerings with an infinity pool, along with more bars spread around the ship instead of being clustered into one main area.

Disney Cruise Line cabins and suites

At a basic level, Disney Cruise Line offers five main types of cabins across the fleet. In its simplified version, the types of cabins on a Disney cruise include:

• Windowless inside cabins
• Ocean-view cabins
• Verandah cabins (with private balconies)
• Verandah cabins with concierge service
• Suites with concierge service

These cabins start at 169 square feet for a standard inside cabin and go up to a two-story, 1,966-square-foot Tower Suite on Disney Wish .

Unless you are OK with the smallest space on the ship or have a budget for the largest, the sweet spot for price and comfort on Disney Cruise Line vessels is probably the cabins that are around 204 square feet and usually come with a queen bed, single sleeper sofa and upper-berth pull-down bed and a split bath.

This split bathroom situation places a sink and the shower/tub combo in one bathroom and the toilet and another sink in the other. Each has its own separate door, so someone could use the toilet/sink room while another takes a shower, all in private and at the same time.

You'll find this cabin layout within the Deluxe Inside Staterooms, Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms and Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah categories.

The Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms and Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah add about 40 more square feet to the equation. If you want the largest within those room categories, search for rooms that can hold five people on the Disney Cruise Line website.

Pro tip: You can ask your cabin host for cartoon bedding for the kid's bed if you think your child will be excited to come back from dinner to one of their Disney favorites.

You can connect many of the cabins on the ship , which is often a much more economical solution for a family looking for more sleeping space (and bathrooms) than upgrading to a multibedroom suite. Roughly speaking, a family of four will pay about 50% more for two cabins than they will for everyone to stay in one cabin of the same size.

Related: 7 nights. 4 people. 1 cruise ship cabin. Can we survive?

If you are going all-out on a particular trip, or are simply working with a larger budget, Disney concierge suites are special.

The smallest available room with this service is the Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah, which isn't all that different from the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah, other than the included concierge service. From there, you can go up to the one- or two-bedroom suites.

Be prepared for sticker shock, though, as these suites will almost certainly be near or over five figures on many sailings.

While pricey, Disney concierge service eliminates almost all of the potential pain points of a Disney cruise (not that there are many pain points to begin with).

Disney concierge service gets you access to the Disney Concierge Lounge, which has food offerings multiple times per day and a fully stocked fridge with sodas, juices and bottles of water.

In the evenings, you'll find included beer, wine and spirits in the lounge — which you can also take with you as you head out to dinner or to enjoy the view from the deck.

The Concierge Lounge also has its own private deck, and Disney characters have been known to make a private appearance there during the cruise. (Don't worry, you'll get a heads-up.)

Related: Is Disney Cruise Line concierge service worth it?

You also have your own check-in area at the port and are among the first to board the ship, which can mean extra time to enjoy having the waterslides to yourself. At the end of the cruise, you can have a private elevator that takes you down to be some of the first off the ship — which should protect you from a long line to say goodbye.

There are other perks of the concierge level, too, such as early front-row seating at shows, included popcorn and the ability to submit your request for meal reservations at Palo or Remy, cabanas on Castaway Cay, spa treatments, character meet-and-greets or whatever else you wish before other guests. These can be made for you starting 120 days before your sailing, which is before all other guests except those with the highest elite status tier in the Castaway Club .

Passengers on their first Disney cruise don't get to make those reservations until 75 days out if they aren't in the concierge level. The reality is the hottest items are often booked up by then, especially on shorter cruises when there's less time to do everything.

Those in the concierge level in one-bedroom suites and higher can also order room service from the restaurants to their cabin, which means you can have a hot breakfast on your verandah if you wish instead of the regular continental options available to most guests.

If you are on the fence about concierge service, it's arguably most valuable when you are on a shorter cruise, have some specific popular must-have items on your reservation wish list or want someone else to take care of everything. You can also inquire about discounted upgrades at the port, assuming rooms are left unsold on your voyage.

Pro tip: Regardless of your cabin, bring magnetic Mickey or nautical-themed decor for the entrance, as most of the cabin doors are magnetic. Decorating is a fun tradition on a Disney cruise.

Related: Review of sailing in a suite with Disney concierge service

Disney Cruise Line restaurants and dining options

You will not go hungry on a Disney cruise. From room service to evening dinners, meals are (mostly) all included.

Rotational dining

On each Disney ship, three main dining rooms serve as dinner restaurants that participate in rotational dining. Each ship has its own lineup of themed rotational restaurants, but the concept remains the same on each.

Each night, your tablemates and servers will move from one restaurant to the next as a team. This way, the servers get to know that you always want to start with a glass of red wine, or your kids' food needs to come ASAP so you can take them to the kids club as soon as they finish, or (in my case) your daughter wants a side of barbecue sauce with ... everything.

You must choose between an early and a late dinner time, with your showtime opposite your dining time. Some restaurants, such as Animator's Palate, are found on multiple ships, while others are unique to one ship, such as Tiana's Place on Disney Wonder and all of the rotational restaurants found on Disney Wish .

Included restaurants on Disney Magic

• Animator's Palate
• Lumiere's
• Rapunzel's Royal Table

Included restaurants on Disney Wonder

• Tiana's Place
• Triton's

Included restaurants on Disney Dream

• Enchanted Garden
• Royal Palace

Included restaurants on Disney Fantasy

• Royal Court

Included restaurants on Disney Wish

• Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure
• Worlds of Marvel

At these restaurants, you can order whatever you want on the menu at no extra charge, with a few exceptions (for example, alcohol and specialty drinks cost extra).

While many guests dress up a bit for dinner (compared to their afternoon pool deck attire), most stay relatively casual for the rotational dining restaurants. Disney does not impose a specific dress-up requirement.

Disney cruise ships offer many other dining options beyond the three included themed restaurants — most included, some not.

Room service

Room service is mostly free (other than sodas or alcohol), though the menu is limited if you aren't staying in a concierge-level cabin. Still, it's free room service, so I'm not one to complain.

Pro tip: Fill the breakfast card out the night before and hang it on your stateroom to get breakfast exactly when you want it the next morning.

And you haven't lived until your kids learn how to call and order free Mickey ice cream bars to the cabin ... every night (just be sure and add a tip).

Buffet and grab-and-go

Your Disney cruise will also include a buffet known as Cabanas on the original four ships and Marceline Market on Disney Wish. The buffet is usually open for breakfast and lunch, though not in the evening hours.

In addition to the buffet, a few grab-and-go quick-service restaurants on the pool deck serve salads, chili, pizza, barbecue and more, depending on which ship you're sailing.

Don't miss these options, as some are quite good. They are typically open from late morning until later into the evening.

Room service, the buffet and the on-deck food counter dining options don't cost extra and are available to you in addition to or instead of your rotational dining.

You'll also find included ice cream on one of the upper decks. A pro-level hack is to get Mickey churro waffles from the buffet in the morning (only available some mornings) and add vanilla ice cream for a vacation-worthy breakfast.

Extra-cost, adults-only restaurants

At the top of the "costs extra" list are the restaurants Palo (found on all five ships, though it's Palo Steakhouse on Disney Wish), Remy (on Dream and Fantasy) and Enchante (only on Disney Wish).

Remy is a fancy adults-only French restaurant that costs $125 per person for dinner (more if you order drinks). This is the type of place where men need jackets and women are expected to wear dresses, pantsuits or a skirt and blouse. Enchante on Disney Wish is similar — you're dressing up for these meals.

Palo is also fancy, though a notch less fancy than Remy. You'll see jackets and dresses in Palo, but you can also get by with nice jeans if you want. This adults-only restaurant serves Northern Italian fare and starts at about $45 per person for a multicourse brunch or dinner, though you can also order a la carte for dinner, which could cost more or less, depending on your order.

I can say with 100% certainty that if you enjoy a nice meal, this is worth the extra $45 once during your cruise . From the breadbasket to the dessert, it's all amazing. You'll gain 5 pounds, but you won't regret a bite.

These reservations are hard to get, especially for brunch, so you'll want to make them the second you are eligible and keep checking back for cancellations if you miss out the first time.

Coffee shops and snack shops

On a Disney cruise, the snacks and pastries you'll see in the coffee shop or kiosk are all included, but the specialty coffee will cost extra. Drink prices are roughly similar to Starbucks, if not a notch lower. Be sure and ask for the Cafe Fanatic card if you're a regular, as your sixth drink will be free.

In addition to the included soft-serve ice cream and Mickey bars available via room service, your ship may have some shops with extra-fee ice cream. This can confuse kids, so I want to warn you beforehand. On Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish, you'll find an ice cream shop stuffed with candies, gelato and ice cream — all for an extra charge.

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy also have a juice bar that costs extra.

The exact bars will vary by vessel, but you can expect spots like a wine and Champagne bar, a pub, a laid-back lounge and a bar with live entertainment.

These bars are a lot of fun and are not to be missed if you like live music or a nice drink at the end of the day. Keep an eye out in your app for when and where the happy hours are on board if you want to save a few dollars on your drinks. Some bars also offer a sommelier bin where you get a nice glass of wine at a discounted price — as long as you put the bartender in charge of choosing your drink.

Some of the drink-tasting classes that you book in advance can be a good value if you're a fan of the drink on offer and are interested in learning a little bit while you sip. You'll want to book these before sailing, as many do sell out.

Food on Castaway Cay

If your cruise takes you to Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, you're in luck, as there's plenty of included food to eat there, too.

Just like on board, some of the food on Castaway is included, while alcohol and specialty drinks are not. The Cookie's and Cookie's Too lunch shacks on the island are both included, so load up on hot dogs, barbecue, hamburgers, fries and all the fixings. Vegetarian options are available.

While the food options here are somewhat basic, they still make for a fun and free meal.

However, if you don't like what is on offer on the island, you can always hop back on your ship for lunch and then continue your afternoon on the island after you eat.

Entertainment and activities on a Disney cruise

A valid reason to want to sail with Disney is the onboard fun that awaits — especially for those who love Disney characters and stories.

Theaters and shows

Each Disney cruise ship features two theaters. In the massive Walt Disney Theatre, you'll enjoy Broadway-caliber evening shows such as "Beauty and the Beast," "Frozen," "Tangled," "Disney Dreams," "The Golden Mickeys" and more. If you want a good seat, arrive about 30 minutes early since seating is first come, first served.

The Buena Vista Theatre screens first-run Disney films. These will be the same films still showing in theaters on land. If you happen to be at sea when a new Disney movie premieres on land, you'll also get that same first look at sea.

Pirate Night is a staple on many Disney cruises in the Caribbean. On that themed night, expect everyone to be dressed in their pirate-y best for the evening, so pack accordingly. Your dinner will also have a pirate theme, followed by a fun show up on deck, complete with fireworks.

Pro tip: If you plan to stay up late for Pirate Night, try to work in a nap that afternoon so you don't miss out on the nighttime fun.

Game shows, karaoke, bingo and more

The extensive lineup of interactive game shows, trivia, karaoke, dance parties, bingo and more listed in the Disney cruise app are worth checking out. Some of these are adults-only, while others are fun for the whole family. Most are included in the price of the cruise, though bingo does cost extra — and you could win real money.

Other interior attractions and activities

Meeting Disney characters is a fun part of a Disney cruise.

You can make reservations to meet the popular princesses, but most characters are easy to walk up to and meet via a short line. Or, even better, you often see them roaming about the ship at unexpected times.

You can work off some of those treats and drinks at the onboard fitness center on each ship.

The Senses Spa & Salon is a full-service spa with everything from massages to pedicures and hair care. Promotions are available if you book more than one treatment. If you have a Disney Visa card , you can also save 20% on select onboard services.

Pro tip: The showers in this part of the ship are full-size, in case you are getting a bit claustrophobic in the shower in your cabin.

If you like getting away to relax, look at purchasing access to the Rainforest Room for heated stone loungers, aromatherapy showers and even hot tubs on the larger ships. You can buy a one-day or full-cruise pass to this area of the spa, but get a tour first as the layout and inclusions in this space vary dramatically from ship to ship.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Little cruisers can be transformed into a princess or pirate at sea at the onboard Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, which does themed kid makeovers and sells costumes as part of the package. You'll need an appointment; expect to pay $100 to $200 for most packages.

This is a fun thing to do before meeting a princess, before a more formal night or anytime you want to see a huge smile on your kid's face. If you have a princess dress or outfit from home you want to use or reuse, you can purchase a cheaper package at Bibbidi Bobbidi.

Decktop attractions

Waterslides.

All of Disney Cruise Line's ships have some kind of waterslide on board.

The AquaDuck waterslide on Dream and Fantasy takes riders in single or double tubes 765 feet from Deck 12 up and down, through the forward funnel and on a four-deck drop. It's pretty epic. AquaMouse on Disney Wish is also an inner tube-based ride and is not to be missed.

These lines can get long, so I recommend riding first thing when you board if the port is warm enough. Nighttime rides usually have short waits, too.

Disney Magic has the most thrilling waterslide in the fleet, called AquaDunk, and Disney Wonder has its own waterslide in the AquaLab splash area.

Each Disney ship has multiple pools, though if you've never been on a cruise, you may be initially shocked at how small they are — and how busy they can get.

As with the waterslides, we recommend enjoying these first thing when you board if you want to try them without crowds. Otherwise, you won't find so many people in the pools on port days, early in the morning and right before dinner. There are thousands of people on the ship and only a few small pools, so plan accordingly.

Each ship has a pool and hot tub area for adults 18 and up. It can also get busy, but typically less busy than the family area. Select ships also offer an in-pool bar area for adults.

The adult sun deck is a nice place to grab a chair and relax, even if you have no intention of getting in the water.

Splash pads

Your little one has to be potty trained to use the onboard pools. The option for those still in swim diapers is some splash areas, such as Nemo's Reef and Dory's Reef.

Sports deck

If you want to be more active, head to your ship's sports deck to play basketball, foosball, miniature golf and more. You may even have some sports simulator options beyond your traditional in-person fun.

Children's programs

As a parent, my favorite part of a Disney cruise might be the included kids programs that children actually want to attend. If the kids are happy for a few hours, the parents can actually relax, too.

Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab for children ages 3–12

All five Disney ships have amazing spaces for kids in the 3-to-12-year-old range in the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab.

Here you'll find video games, an indoor slide, fun programs and games with the staff, arts and crafts, surprise character visits and more. Your kids need to be potty trained to stay in this club, so use that as motivation for a kid approaching 3 years old before your next cruise.

Your kids don't need an appointment to pop in here; they can come anytime from open to close — and the club stays open pretty late.

Parents can stay with kids and play during open hours on the first day and select times on other dates, but most of the time, the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab are kids-only. Your kids will check in and out by scanning a special MagicBand that also tracks where they are within the kids clubs.

Disney Wish has the added perk in the kids club of a slide that takes the kids straight from the main atrium and into the fun.

Know that once your child turns 8, you have the option of giving them self-checkout privileges. While kids up to 12 are welcome in the main Oceaneer Club, they may start moving up to the tween club by the time they are 10 years old.

Edge tween club for children ages 11–14

When your kid outgrows the fun in the main kids club, don't worry. Edge is waiting just upstairs.

Technically, Edge is for kids ages 11-14, but you can get your 10-year-old in with permission — and once they figure that out, it's probably all over for the "little kid club."

Edge is a much smaller space, but tweens have tons of fun playing video games, having dance parties, doing crafts, playing trivia games and more with their newfound cruise friends.

This club does not utilize parent sign-in and -out, so you need to trust your kid if they are coming to Edge. If your 10-to-12-year-old child visits Edge, they can also play at the Oceaneer Lab and Oceaneer Club, so they have options.

Vibe teen club for children ages 14–17

Get ready to be jealous of this one. On Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, the teen club has its own set of small pools at the front of the ship.

Inside all versions of the teen club, Vibe, you'll find a tech-friendly world with loungers, dance parties, smoothies and other teen-approved fun. Some of the coolest inside space on Disney cruise ships is dedicated to teens ages 14-17, but you can request for your child to attend this club starting at 13 years old.

'It's a small world' nursery for children 6 months to 3 years old

While the three previously mentioned kids clubs are free and do not require reservations, the nursery operates differently. You will need to make reservations, and the fee is $4.50 per half-hour for the first child and $4 per half-hour for each additional child.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

The specific documents you will need will vary by cruise destination. Having a passport is always a good idea, but it's not technically required on all Disney cruises. For example, round-trip cruises originating in Port Canaveral, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, San Diego, New Orleans, New York and San Juan, Puerto Rico, often do not require a passport.

Passports, when required, must be valid for at least six months. For cruises from international ports, you'll need a passport. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Related: Tips for getting a child's passport

Disney Cruise Line adds a service gratuity of $14.50 per person per day to final bills. If you are unhappy with the service you receive, you can lower this amount. Of course, you can visit guest services and adjust it upward, too.

To give an idea of the cost, a four-person family on a four-night cruise would pay $232 in recommended tips. The amount is split among your team of dining room servers who quickly learned your kids' preferences for dinner and your cabin hosts who made your room look like magic while you were out enjoying yourself.

An 18% gratuity is added to onboard spa, bar, beverage, wine and deck service tabs. You can always add an additional gratuity for any of your services or servers.

While room service is free, it's customary to add a few dollars of tip when you sign the "bill."

While some gratuity is included at Palo and Remy, you'll likely want to add an additional tip if you enjoyed the service. If you stay in a concierge-level room or suite, it is customary to tip the Concierge Lounge hosts at the end of your cruise a recommended amount of $8 per night per guest.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships

Disney Cruise Line's Wi-Fi, Connect@Sea, is in the process of being upgraded, so speed, bandwidth and cost vary by ship.

If you are on a ship that charges by day instead of by the amount of data used, expect the prices to vary from $12-$36 per day, depending on the speed you select. There are often discounts for buying Wi-Fi access for the length of the cruise.

If you are on a ship that still charges by the amount of data used, we recommend not doing that and connecting either when you are in port or via a plan from your cellphone provider.

Related: What's the best international phone plan right now?

Carry-on drinks policy

Guests 21 years and older may bring a maximum of two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne (no larger than 750 milliliters) or six beers (no larger than 12 ounces) on board at the beginning of the voyage and at each port of call. These beverages must be packed in carry-on (not checked) bags or luggage. You can keep drinks chilled in the small fridge in your cabin.

Guests wishing to consume wine or Champagne that they have brought on board in one of the dining rooms will be charged a corkage fee of $26 per bottle.

Smoking policy

Smoking is permitted only in designated deck areas. It's forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies, and those who violate this rule will face a $250 cleaning fee.

For an additional fee, Disney ships offer full-service laundry and dry cleaning services that will pick up and deliver clean clothes to your cabin.

Ships also provide 24-hour, self-service guest laundry facilities equipped with washers and dryers, along with detergent and complimentary ironing equipment. You pay for the facilities by using your Key to the World card. These services can get busy during sea days on longer cruises, so plan accordingly.

Electrical outlets

All cabins are equipped with multiple 110-volt outlets, which are standard in the U.S. and Canada. Cabins on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are equipped with a combination of 110- and 220-volt (European) outlets.

Small electrical appliances such as electric shavers, curling irons and flat irons with standard North American plugs will function on board; 110-volt items should not exceed 1,500 watts, and 220-volt items should not exceed 2,000 watts. A hair dryer is provided in every cabin for your convenience, but you may bring your own as long as it meets the guidelines above.

The currency on Disney Cruise Line ships, regardless of location, is the U.S. dollar.

When you are on the ship, you will not need cash or a credit card — all incidentals, purchases and services will be charged to your cabin folio. Your Key to the World card (or your DisneyBand+ on Disney Wish ) serves as your onboard payment method. The only exception is if you want to tip a crew member in cash.

In port, you may wish to carry cash or a credit card to buy snacks and souvenirs or to tip your tour guide.

Drinking age

For most Disney sailings, the drinking age on board is 21.

However, on round-trip cruises departing European countries with a lower drinking age, passengers 18-20 years of age can drink alcohol on board with signed parental consent. For round-trip cruises from Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland and Brisbane, guests 18 years of age and older may purchase and consume alcoholic beverages without parental consent.

During the day, people dress casually. If it's a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and you're bound for the top deck, that means looking like you're going to the beach. T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside) are fine.

During the evenings, dining attire in the three main dining restaurants is "cruise casual," meaning no swimwear or tank tops, but you don't have to put on a party dress. That said, many guests do dress up a bit in the evening, but it's not required unless you are dining in Palo, Remy or Enchante.

Cruises that are seven nights or longer schedule one "formal night" — though even then, it's only encouraged, not required. On that night, you will see suits, sports coats, cocktail dresses and similar from some guests.

Pro tip: Be sure and pack that pirate gear for Pirate Night.

Related: What to pack for your 1st cruise

Disney Cruise Line loyalty program

Disney Cruise Line has a simple loyalty program, the Castaway Club , with four "elite status" levels that you earn based on how many cruises you've taken with Disney. A three-night and 10-night cruise both count as one sailing for these purposes.

• Silver: One completed cruise
• Gold: Five completed cruises
• Platinum: 10 completed cruises
• Pearl: 25 completed cruises

Related: The TPG guide to cruise line loyalty programs

This isn't the kind of loyalty program where you earn free cruises the way you earn free flights with airline miles. Instead, as you go up in status, you earn perks and earlier access to booking cruises and activities — which is key for getting those hard-to-snag adult dining or Castaway Cay cabana reservations

Silver members

• Book new cruise itineraries one day before the general public and book onboard activities 90 days before sailing.
• Get a "welcome back aboard" gift (such as a bag), have access to a Castaway Club members-only line when boarding and access to a Castaway Club direct phone number.
• Select port arrival time with online check-in starting 33 days before the general public.

Gold members

• All of those perks, but you can book new sailings two days before the general public and can book onboard activities 105 days before sailing.
• On eight-night and longer voyages, Gold Castaway Club members are also invited to a private reception with special entertainment. There are also select merchandise discounts available to Gold members and higher.
• Select port arrival time with online check-in starting 35 days before the general public.

Platinum members

• All of those perks, but you can book new sailings three days before the general public and can book onboard activities 120 days before sailing.
• Priority check-in at the cruise terminal.
• Complimentary evening dinner at Palo or Palo Steakhouse for themselves and everyone in the cabin age 18 and older.
• Select port arrival time with online check-in starting 38 days before the general public.

Pearl members

• All of those perks, but you can book new sailings four days before the general public and can book onboard activities 123 days before sailing.
• Exclusive cruise terminal check-in (where available)
• Unlimited Digital Photo Package.
• Select port arrival time with online check-in starting 40 days before the general public.

How much does a Disney cruise cost?

Magic ain't cheap, and Disney cruises are expensive. They aren't the priciest voyages out there, but they will cost more than cruises with family-friendly competitors such as Royal Caribbean by a noticeable margin.

For a family of four, the cheapest Disney cruise currently available (not counting the two-night cruises in Australia and New Zealand) is about $2,500. An ocean view will add about $90 and a verandah will add about $500.

On these shortest cruises, concierge-level cabins and access start at a little over $5,000 for a family of four.

Those sorts of prices will only be available during the offseason, such as in mid-to-late January and early February or for repositioning cruises as the ship moves from, say, Puerto Rico to Florida. That same cruise during spring break can cost double or more, so the more date flexibility you have, the better.

A seven-night cruise in the Caribbean will likely start around $5,000 for a family of four. Expect Alaska and Europe cruises to start at $5,000 to $6,000 for inside cabins for a week, and prices go up for longer sailings and upgraded cabins.

You can save money on your next Disney cruise by putting a $250 deposit down while you are at sea on a previous Disney cruise. It's a popular way to get 10% off your next cruise.

Another way to save on a Disney cruise is to look at a one-way repositioning sailing , as those often price lower than other similar cruises. For example, the cruise line may need to end a cruise in a particular port to reposition the ship to do some sailings from there. You'll have to get yourself back home from that port, but you may save on the cruise in the process.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on a cruise

How to book

You can book your Disney cruise directly with Disney Cruise Line either over the phone or online, but I'd argue you shouldn't.

Cruises are easy to enjoy but can be complicated to plan if you are new to this type of travel. This is an industry where a travel agent is still a good call. You want someone who can help you pick the right cabin type and location for your group and keep track of when you can snag those onboard activities you really want.

When the wave of pandemic-related cruise cancellations hit in 2020, I was so grateful to have a travel agent — instead of me — spending time dealing with the cruise line.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

Another reason to consider going through a travel agent is to get onboard credit. Some travel agents will offer onboard credit based on the amount you spend on your Disney cruise. This is credit you can use toward drinks, spa treatments, excursions or anything else you can charge to your room.

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR DISNEY CRUISE, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

Generally speaking, the sooner you book a Disney cruise after it goes on sale, the better, as prices usually only go in one direction — up.

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your credit card points when paying for the cruise by using a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases and maybe even offers some built-in travel protections .

• The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers 3 points per dollar on travel and dining and an annual up-to-$300 travel credit.
• The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns 2 points per dollar on travel.
• The Disney Premier Visa Card is also a good option, specifically with Disney Cruise Line, as it gives you access to a 0% introductory annual percentage rate for six months following the purchase date on eligible Disney vacation packages, such as a Disney cruise (then a variable APR of 19.24% to 28.24% applies). The card also gets you 10% in savings on some onboard activities and packages while at Castaway Cay.

Related: How to save money on booking a Disney cruise

Bottom line

Whether you are on a three-night trip to Castaway Cay or a bigger crossing to the South Pacific, a Disney cruise is a special vacation that actually feels like a vacation.

The classic styling of the original four ships, the modern storybook styling of Disney Wish, the vast number of inclusions, the rotational dining, waterslides, private island, fun kids clubs, Disney characters, high-caliber entertainment and Disney service shine through.

You'll certainly pay more for the privilege of sailing with Mickey and Minnie than with some other family-friendly lines. But for those with kids in that Disney age range, or for adults who know and trust the Disney brand, it's hard to go wrong in choosing Disney Cruise Line for your next vacation.

More stories to help you plan your next cruise:

• Best Disney ships for everyone
• Everything we know about Disney Treasure, joining DCL in 2024
• Everything you need to know about Disney Wish
• Best credit cards for booking a cruise

What’s Coming to Disney Experiences in 2024 and Beyond

“It’s something that will never be finished. Something that I can keep developing, keep plussing and adding to. It’s alive. It will be a live breathing thing that will need change.”

Walt Disney’s words about Disneyland have remained a guiding principle for the Disney Experiences segment since they were first uttered roughly 70 years ago. The summer of 2024 is just the latest example of Disney expanding its present and building towards a great, big, beautiful tomorrow.

Here’s a look at some of the latest Disney Experiences developments from all around the globe:

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

On June 28, guests at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida will return to the New Orleans of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ The Princess and the Frog to float along on a musical journey in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure .

The all-new attraction picks up after the events of the 2009 film, where visitors experience an adventure through the bayou as Princess Tiana prepares to host a Mardi Gras celebration.

Guests will encounter dozens of technologically advanced Audio-Animatronic figures during their ride, including beloved characters like Princess Tiana, Louis, and Mama Odie, along with new critters and characters. New arrangements of songs from the film — and a new original tune — will serenade guests as they make their way towards a 50-foot drop.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will also open later this year at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California.

Fantasy Springs

Fantasy Springs — the eighth themed port at Tokyo DisneySea Park — welcomes guests on June 6.

It brings to life new areas inspired by three of Disney Animation’s most beloved films — Rapunzel’s Forest from 2010’s Tangled , Peter Pan’s Never Land from 1953’s Peter Pan , and Frozen Kingdom from the 2013 blockbuster, Frozen .

Fantasy Springs finds itself nestled between Tokyo DisneySea’s Lost River Delta and the Arabian Coast areas and the new port will be an entryway for guests into the magical worlds of these films.

Each will include innovative attractions, stunning restaurants, and the Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel.

Setting Sail

Disney Cruise Line is looking to bring enjoyment to guests by sea and by land this year.

In June, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , Disney Cruise Line’s newest tropical retreat opens on the island of Eleuthera, The Bahamas.

The destination celebrates the rich culture and natural beauty of The Bahamas, with signature Disney entertainment, port adventures and nature trails, a water play area and beautiful beaches, including a dedicated beach for adults. The retreat will feature a plethora of activities for the whole family to enjoy.

As Disney Cruise Line looks to add three new ships to its fleet through 2025, its latest vessel, Disney Treasure , is also set to take its maiden voyage on December 21.

Reimagined Classics

One of the very last attractions that Walt Disney personally helped develop, the Country Bear Musical Jamboree , is undergoing a refresh that will open this summer.

While the Country Bear Musical Jamboree will include call backs, the bears will sing new, reinterpreted Disney tunes in different genres of country music – like bluegrass, pop-country, Americana, rockabilly and other styles.

On May 24, Disneyland Resort guests will once again be able to enjoy the dazzling special effects of Fantasmic! As the beloved show makes its epic return.

And on June 10, EPCOT at Walt Disney World will welcome guests to CommuniCore Hall and Plaza . The Hall and Plaza are flexible multi-use event spaces that bring exhibitions, entertainment and even more culinary delights to the center of EPCOT.

Fan-Favorite Festivals and Events

And of course, there are always the seasonal festivals and events that offer a unique spin on a Disney parks visit.

• From August 9 to October 31, families can delight in the frightful fun of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party .
• EPCOT guests can taste their way around the world at the International Food & Wine Festival , from August 29 to November 23.
• And currently, fans can see the worlds of Pixar come alive at Pixar Fest at Disneyland. Running from April 26 through August 4, guests of all ages can celebrate with daytime parades, nighttime spectaculars, and encounters with their favorite Pixar characters.

Beyond 2024

And that’s just this year .

Going forward, Disney fans can keep an eye out for updates on DisneylandForward , which includes a planned Avatar Experience at Disneyland.

There’s also fresh expansions coming to the Magic Kingdom, exploring the Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom , more cruise ships with their own unique themes, an ongoing effort to reimagine Disneyland Paris , a newly rebuilt Space Mountain at Tokyo Disney Resort in 2027, and much more.

The Walt Disney Company announced last year that it is developing plans to accelerate and expand investment in its Parks, Experiences and Products segment to nearly double capital expenditures over the course of approximately 10 years to roughly $60 billion.

So, with plenty happening across the globe now and through the next decade, Disney Experiences is as alive as Walt could’ve ever hoped it would be.

Disney Cruise to Hawaii

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2020 Disney Wonder 9-Night Hawaiian Cruise from Vancouver to Honolulu

2020 Disney Wonder 10-Night Hawaiian Cruise from Honolulu to Vancouver

10 Night Disney Cruise Hawaii 2022 from Vancouver

• Nawiliwili, Hawai’i
• Kahului, Maui
• Honolulu, Hawai’i

10 Night Disney Cruise Hawaii 2022 from Honolulu

• Hilo, Hawai’i
• Vancouver Canada

Will There Be Disney Cruises to Hawaii in the Future?

Why Should You Sail on a Disney Cruise to Hawaii?

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

Disney Cruise San Diego 2020 - EverythingMouse Guide To Disney

Tuesday 3rd of March 2020

[…] Disney Wonder then sails on the highly sought after Hawaii Cruises before starting the season in […]

New Disney Cruise Ship - EverythingMouse Guide To DisneyNew Disney Cruise Ship - EverythingMouse Guide To Disney

Monday 10th of September 2018

[…] Disney Wonder could also fill a gap which it seems many Disney cruise ship fans want them to do. Disney Cruises to Hawaii. There seems to be a lot of demand for a Disney Hawaii […]

Disney Cruise San Diego 2019Disney Cruise San Diego 2019 - EverythingMouse Guide To Disney

Sunday 5th of August 2018

[…] hope that there is a Disney cruise to Hawaii though. Maybe September 2019? A Disney cruise to Hawaii is definitely on our bucket […]

Becky @ Disney in your day

Wednesday 25th of July 2018

I would love to see a Disney Hawaii cruise. I bet it will happen once the new ships are built - they'll put one of the older ones on a Hawaii itinerary. Especially with Aulani, it would be shocking if they didn't!

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10 Best Cruises to Hawaii — From Luxury Sailings to Expedition Ships

A cruise around the 50th state is an excellent way to see as much of the islands as possible in a limited amount of time.

Courtesy of Viking Cruises

The islands of Hawaii are popular with families, couples, retirees, groups of friends, and anyone who enjoys warm weather, tropical scenery, and the 50th state's "Aloha" spirit. Each island offers a different climate, landscape, and style, and even on the same island, there are significant variations depending on location. On Oahu, for example, there's bustling Honolulu on the south shore and the more secluded surfing paradise of the North Shore . On the Big Island, the Hilo and Puna regions on the east coast are wet and heavily forested, whereas the Kailua-Kona region on the west coast tends to be much drier.

Visitors to Hawaii, especially first-timers, want to experience as much of the islands as possible, and a cruise is a great way to accomplish that, according to Pam Jacobs , travel advisor at Travel Store in Palos Verdes Estates, California. “People love the inter-island cruises because all meals are included, so it’s an economical as well as convenient way to see the islands. You unpack once and avoid getting in and out of airports and checking in and out of hotels. It’s the best way to island hop.”

Families and travelers with limited time enjoy the seven-day Norwegian Cruise Lines Honolulu to Honolulu round trip cruises, while retirees may opt for a longer cruise from the West Coast with more days at sea. You can embark from several ports on the West Coast, including San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle. “Many Hawaiʻi cruises are part of longer voyages to the South Pacific, Australia, or around the world,” says Jacobs, a cruise and train travel specialist.

“The shore excursions on the cruises are the same things a tourist would do on land — go to a luau, play golf, visit an attraction like the Arizona Memorial, or just relax on the beach — and it’s all arranged for you,” according to Jacobs. One more bit of advice from our cruise expert: “Always arrive a day before your cruise to be sure you’re there and ready. You’ll have time to explore and relax before boarding.”

Below are some of the best cruises to see Hawaiʻi . Dates, prices, amenities, and itineraries vary, so choosing a cruise requires some planning and research. That's always part of the fun, so hopefully this list will inspire you to get started.

Holland America: 17-day Circle Hawaii - Round Trip from San Diego

Courtesy of Holland America

This cruise on the 1,432-passenger Zaandam departs from San Diego and spends five days at sea before arriving in Honolulu at 8 a.m. Optional activities include a trip to Pearl Harbor, a hike on Diamond Head, a road trip around Oahu, an evening at the Polynesian Cultural Center, and a day on Waikiki Beach. After an overnight sail to Kauai, the ship docks at Nawiliwili Harbor. Guests can take a Wailua River cruise to the Fern Grotto , a tour of a coffee plantation, or a trip to Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Maui is the next island on the itinerary, and guests can choose a drive to Haleakala Crater , a snorkel adventure aboard the new Reef Explorer, or a drive to Maui’s Upcountry or rainforest. The final two stops, Hilo and Kona, are on the Big Island. In Kona, there’s an optional Atlantis submarine trip to explore coral gardens or a catamaran cruise. Options include visits to Volcanoes National Park and in Hilo, guests can tour Rainbow Falls or go for a zipline adventure. After four days at sea, you'll stop in Ensenada, Mexico, before returning to San Diego.

Royal Caribbean: 9-night Hawaii Cruise - Vancouver to Oahu

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean Cruises

This trip aboard the 4,180-passenger Ovation of the Seas offers guests much to do during days at sea, with a rock climbing wall, FlowRider surf simulator, and Northstar, a 360-degree observation capsule 300 feet above sea level. “For travelers who have the time for these days at sea, the activities on the ship are a big part of the fun,” according to Jacobs. After departing Vancouver , British Columbia, the ship spends four days at sea before it arrives in Honolulu for a day of exploring Oʻahu with a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center or Waikiki Beach. The ship crosses the International Date Line with a day at sea and then passes the beautiful Napali Coast of Kauai, famous for its dramatic cliffs rising from the ocean. The final stop is Oahu, and passengers spend as much time as they want exploring Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, or the rest of the island before heading home.

Norwegian Cruise Line: 7-Day Hawaii Inter-Island Cruise from Honolulu

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruises

Spend a week exploring four of Hawaii's islands on this cruise aboard the 2,186-passenger Pride of America , the only ship sailing to four Hawaiian islands in seven days year-round. “These Norwegian Cruise Line trips are a dependable way to see the islands with their convenient weekly departures,” Jacobs says. “You can see the other islands and spend some time in Oahu before or after your cruise.” Onboard activities include basketball, volleyball, video games, theater, hot tubs, spa, and shopping. Departing Honolulu on Saturday evening, the ship heads to Kahului, Maui for two days with options like a drive on the Road to Hana, a catamaran cruise to Molokini for snorkeling with sea turtles, a tour to Haleakala Crater, and more. Next is a day in Hilo on the Big Island, where guests can see a volcano, rain forest, waterfalls, or a lush botanical garden. On the other side of the island in Kona, snorkeling, fishing, cruising in a catamaran, and a reef tour are among optional activities. On Kauai , passengers can enjoy a traditional luau, hike through a rainforest, go kayaking, or take in Waimea Canyon . The cruise ends the following Saturday back in Honolulu, where passengers can explore the city, nearby Pearl Harbor , or Oahu's North Shore.

UnCruise Adventures: Hawaiian Seascapes

Courtesy of UnCruise

“The UnCruise expedition-style cruises focus on the destinations rather than the ship,” according to Pam Jacobs. “The experience is immersive, eco-friendly, and there’s always great camaraderie with the small groups.” This seven-night cruise aboard the 36-guest Safari Explorer begins in Kona, on the Big Island, with a champagne welcome from the captain. The following two days feature a hike up the slopes of Hualalai with a naturalist guide, night snorkeling among Giant Pacific Manta rays, and plenty of opportunities for swimming or kayaking. On day four in Maui, guests can stroll through historic Lahaina, snorkel among coral and sea turtles, or kayak in a marine sanctuary. Lanai is the next island, where guests can paddleboard or kayak past 1,000-foot-high sea cliffs, go snorkeling, take a bike excursion, or visit the quaint Lanai Culture and Heritage Center. On Molokai, guests can learn how taro is cultivated and turned into poi , or they can hike to a spectacular waterfall in Halawa Valley . At the Molokai Museum, a lesson on the island's history is followed by a pa'ina (feast), complete with traditional music. Passengers disembark the following day at Kaunakakai , where they can either transfer to Molokai Airport or extend their stay.

Princess Cruises: 16-day Hawaiian Islands - Round Trip from San Francisco

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

This cruise aboard the 3,080-passenger Ruby Princess departs San Francisco in the late afternoon. Swimming pools, hot tubs, miniature golf, Discovery at Sea programs, movies, dancing, and shows ensure plenty to do during the four days at sea on the way to Hawaii. Shipboard programs for youths, teens, and families provide something for everyone. On the Big Island, guests can zipline through the rainforest or visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . Next is Oahu, where activities include a tour of Pearl Harbor, snorkeling in Hanauma Bay, and a tour of the only royal palace in the United States . On Kauai, there are hiking , snorkeling, and kayaking adventures. On Maui, guests can sail on a catamaran, Zodiac, or submarine. After four days at sea, passengers have a day to explore Ensenada, Mexico , on the Baja California peninsula, before the Ruby Princess sails back to San Francisco.

Celebrity Cruises: 13-night Hawaii Cruise - Vancouver to Oahu

Steve Dunlop/Celebrity Cruises

This cruise on the luxurious, 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge departs Vancouver and stops for the day in historic Astoria, Oregon, before continuing onto Hawaii. During the six days at sea, passengers can play blackjack in the casino, take a yoga class in the fitness center, or enjoy cocktails while hovering over the ocean on the Magic Carpet . In Hilo, on day eight, guests can explore waterfalls, volcanoes, wineries, and gardens on the lush coast of the Big Island. The ship cruises to Kona on the other side of the island for another two days of snorkeling or other onshore activities and then spends a day passing the Napali Coast of Kauai, where steep cliffs rise from the ocean and sea caves and waterfalls can be seen from the ship. After another day of cruising, the final stop is Honolulu, where guests are free to enjoy Oahu at their leisure before heading back to the mainland.

Disney Cruise Line: 10-night Hawaiian Cruise from Vancouver Ending in Honolulu

David Murphey/Disney Cruises

With an itinerary that includes both Maui and Mickey, this cruise aboard the 875-stateroom Disney Wonder is perfect for families and Disney lovers alike. Departing from Vancouver, you’ll spend the next six nights at sea, with entertainment ranging from Broadway-style musicals with Disney characters to a Marvel-themed superhero academy in the Oceaneer Club for kids. The first stop is Nawiliwili on the island of Kauaʻi, where guests can visit Waimea Canyon State Park, called “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” or explore a restored sugar plantation in Old Koloa Town. The next stop is Kahului, Maui, where you can spend a day at the beach, the Maui Arts & Cultural Center, or Botanical Gardens. In Hilo on the “Big Island” of Hawaiʻi,” guests can tour Mauna Kea Observatory or see active volcanoes at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park . The ship arrives in Honolulu for disembarkation, and passengers can transfer to the airport or extend their stay.

Viking Cruises: Hawaiian Islands Sojourn - Round Trip from Los Angeles

This 17-day voyage from Los Angeles takes place aboard the Viking Neptune , an all-veranda small ship that carries a maximum of 928 guests. After five days at sea, the first stop is the Big Island, where guests can view Kilauea by helicopter, visit waterfalls, or explore Hilo Bay by kayak. The next port is Oahu, where guests can tour by helicopter, hike Diamond Head, attend a luau, or more. On Kauai, excursions range from an ATV tour of the island to snorkeling along the South Shore. On day 10 in Maui, highlights include Haleakala National Park, snorkeling, and a visit to Maui Ocean Center. The ship then sails to Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can indulge in wine tastings, e-bike tours, and ATV adventures in the Guadalupe Valley. The Viking Neptune returns to Los Angeles the next day.

Carnival Journeys: 15-day Hawaii Journey from Seattle

This cruise aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Spirit spends five days at sea after departing from Seattle. Pickleball, casino games, parties, comedy club, and the WaterWorks, the ship’s onboard waterpark, provide plenty to do. In Honolulu, on day seven, guests can spend the day on Waikiki Beach, visit the Polynesian Cultural Center and the USS Arizona Memorial, or attend a traditional luau. The next day in Maui offers a chance to snorkel or head to the top of Mt. Haleakala. In Kauai, an optional helicopter tour takes guests over Waimea Canyon or the Napali Coast, and the next port is Hilo, on the slopes of volcanic Mauna Loa. After two days at sea, the ship visits Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Seattle.

Related Articles

I've traveled on all 5 Disney cruise ships. I have 2 clear favorites, and there's only one I'm not in a hurry to book again.

• My family and I have been on nine Disney cruises and all five ships.
• We love the fleet's two smallest ships, Disney Wonder and Disney Magic.
• Although we had a great experience on board Disney Wish , it was my least favorite ship to travel on.

I've been on nine Disney cruises with my husband and two teenage sons. We've sailed on other cruise lines including Carnival, Celebrity, MSC, and Royal Caribbean , but Disney Cruise Line is always our top pick.

Stellar service, subtle theming, top-notch kids' and teen programs, and a dreamy private island in the Bahamas are some of the reasons we keep returning.

So far, we've been on all five Disney Cruise Line ships — Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish. We'll soon have more ships to explore, with Disney Treasure planning to set sail in December and Disney Destiny set to embark on its maiden voyage in 2025 .

Out of the five ships we've been on, two stand out as favorites, and there's only one I'm not in a hurry to travel on again.

My favorite ships are Disney Wonder and Disney Magic

Disney Wonder and Disney Magic are my favorite ships in the Disney Cruise Line.

They have nearly identical deck layouts and are the fleet's two smallest ships. Some may see this as a negative, but I prefer the smaller, more intimate size and the ease of getting around the ships.

Disney Wonder also has my favorite Disney Cruise Line restaurant, Tiana's Place. It offers a delicious, Cajun-inspired menu and a fun "The Princess and the Frog" theme. There's even a lively floor show with jazz music.

I love Disney Magic , too, but I thought it was more dated and in need of an update than Disney Wonder.

I also didn't love the Magic's Rapunzel-themed restaurant nearly as much as I love Tiana's Place.

The food at Rapunzel's Royal Table was just so-so, but the entertainment and theming more than made up for it. The in-person appearance of Rapunzel and Flynn, capped by a lantern processional to the tune of "I See the Light," was glorious.

Although Disney Wish was great, it was my least favorite ship to travel on

Although I had a great experience on board Disney Wish, it was my least favorite ship to travel on.

The Wish is unarguably beautiful — everything is sparkling new, and the atrium is decked out with a life-size Cinderella sculpture — but I thought the layout was a little clunky.

I may have felt this way because many of Disney's ships are laid out very similarly, and after nine cruises, we're pros at finding our way around.

Disney Wonder and Disney Magic have nearly identical deck layouts, as do Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. Disney Wish, however, is laid out much differently.

Unlike the other Disney cruise ships we've been on, Disney Wish doesn't have a specific area for adults-only lounges.

Instead, the adults-only bars and lounges, which are off-limits to kids after 7 p.m., are scattered throughout the ship. This means the Wish doesn't have that true kid-free haven that the other ships have.

I also found that many parts of the ship, from the dining rooms to the pools, felt crowded

For all that criticism, my family and I enjoyed sailing on Disney Wish . But now that we've crossed it off our list, we won't be in any hurry to jump on board again unless the route is one we can't pass up.

Correction: June 7, 2024 — An earlier version of this story mislabeled a photo of Disney Wish as Disney Wonder.

If you enjoyed this story, be sure to follow Business Insider on Microsoft Start.

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Personal Navigators: Disney Wonder 10-Night Hawaiian Cruise from Vancouver ending in Honolulu – October 3, 2023

Personal Navigators, and other details from the   10-Night Hawaiian Cruise from Vancouver ending in Honolulu . The  Disney Wonder  set sail from  Vancouver, Canada  on October 3, 2023. During this cruise, the ship was under the control of Captain Thord Haugen. The Cruise Director during the sailing was Trent Hitchcock. 

Day 1 – October 3, 2023 –  Vancouver, Canada

Guests Onboard : 4:00 pm Personal Navigator – Day 1

Attire : Cruise Casual

Drink of the Day :  Paradise Punch  •  Non-Alcoholic :  Espresso Chiller

Dinner Menus :

• Triton’s :  Let the Magic Begin
• Animator’s Palate :  Let the Magic Begin
• Tiana’s Place :  Let the Magic Begin

Day 2 – October 4, 2023 – At Sea

Personal Navigator – Day 2 Time Change : Back 1 hour before bed.

Attire : Formal

Drink of the Day :  Bahama Mama  •  Non-Alcoholic :  Passion Cream Freeze

• Triton’s :  Triton’s
• Animator’s Palate :  Animator’s Palate
• Tiana’s Place :  Prince & Princess

Evening Entertainment :

• Featured Act –  The Magic & Illusion of Eric Jones

Day 3 – October 5, 2023 – At Sea

Personal Navigator – Day 3

Drink of the Day :  Sunken Treasure  •  Non-Alcoholic :  Parrot Song

• Featured Act –  The Comedy & Ventriloquism of Taylor Mason

Day 4 – October 6, 2023 – At Sea

Personal Navigator – Day 4 Time Change : Back 1 hour before bed.

Drink of the Day : Bay Breeze •  Non-Alcoholic : Bora Shake

• Walt Disney Theatre Production –  The Golden Mickeys

Day 5 – October 7, 2023 – At Sea

Personal Navigator – Day 5

Drink of the Day :  Yellow Bird  •  Non-Alcoholic :  Lava Smoothie

• Triton’s :  Captain’s Gala Dinner
• Animator’s Palate :  Animator’s Palate – Animation Magic
• Tiana’s Place :  Tiana’s Place – Mardi Gras
• Featured Act –  The Juggling & Comedy of Matt Baker

Day 6 – October 8, 2023 – At Sea

Personal Navigator – Day 6

Attire : Semi-Formal

Drink of the Day :  Mai Tai  •  Non-Alcoholic :  Cranberry No-Jito

• Walt Disney Theatre Production –  Frozen, A Musical Spectacular

Day 7 – October 9, 2023 –  Hilo, Hawai’i

Guests Ashore : 8:30 am  Guests Onboard : 4:45 pm Personal Navigator – Day 7

Attire : Pirate or Cruise Casual

Drink of the Day : Blue Hawaiian •  Non-Alcoholic :  Crazy Shake

• Featured Act –  Barrie Kealoha – Island Girl

Day 8 – October 10, 2023 –  Honolulu, Hawai’i

Guests Ashore : 8:30 am  Guests Onboard : 10:30 pm Personal Navigator – Day 8

Drink of the Day : Kvalva Aloha •  Non-Alcoholic : Virgin Lilikoi Mojito

• Triton’s :  Land & Sea
• Animator’s Palate :  World of Flavour
• Tiana’s Place :  Tiana’s Place – Princess
• Featured Act –  Heart & Soul: Cultural Musicians

Day 9 – October 11, 2023 –  Nawiliwili, Hawai’i

Guests Ashore : 8:30 am  Guests Onboard : 4:45 pm Personal Navigator – Day 9

Drink of the Day : Hawaiian Breeze •  Non-Alcoholic :  Lava Smoothie

• Walt Disney Theatre Production –  Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic

Day 10 – October 12, 2023 –  Kahului (Maui), Hawai’i

Guests Ashore : 8:30 am  Guests Onboard : 10:00 pm Personal Navigator – Day 10

Drink of the Day : Waikiki Surf •  Non-Alcoholic : Virgin Lilikoi Lada

• Movie –  Haunted Mansion

Buena Vista Theatre Movies

• Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
• Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
• Haunted Mansion
• Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
• The Devil Wears Prada
• The Little Mermaid
• The Princess Bride

Thank you  “R”  and Lisa Schneiderman for both taking the time to collect and share information from this sailing.

If you have any navigators you would be willing to share, please send me an email. If you would rather upload the files you can use our  upload form .

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A Special New Season - On Sale Now!

Disney Magic at Sea has had a spectacular inaugural season in Australia and New Zealand.

Now, a special new season is coming from October 2024 to February 2025. Booking is now open so be sure to secure your spot early!

Immerse yourself in the magic of Disney storytelling with favourite Characters, imaginative dining, Broadway-style shows and themed parties throughout your sailing. It’s all included with your cruise departing from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland.

Set sail for an unforgettable Disney Cruise Line holiday. We can’t wait to see you!

Fun for everyone

Set sail for Disney Magic at Sea, an unforgettable holiday filled with favourite friends, spectacular shows and imaginative dining

Don't let the magic sail without you!

Disney Magic at Sea brings enchantment and cherished Disney friends to our shores for a special new season from October 2024 to February 2025. We can't wait to see you !

Follow our Disney Magic at Sea socials for updates

When is Disney Magic at Sea coming to Australia & New Zealand?

Now, due to popular demand, we are excited to announce a special new season sailing in Australia and New Zealand from October 2024 to February 2025. 

How many nights can you spend on Disney Magic at Sea?

Disney Magic at Sea brings enchantment and cherished Disney friends to your shores for 2 – 6 nights. Our special new season will be coming to Australia and New Zealand on 2 – 7 night sailings from October 2024 to February 2025.

Where will Disney Magic at Sea be visiting in Australia & New Zealand?

You will be able to immerse yourself in the magic of Disney storytelling with favourite Characters, imaginative dining, Broadway-style shows and themed parties from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland.

When and where can I book to sail on Disney Magic at Sea?

When and where can I book to sail on the Disney Magic at Sea?

Our special new season sailing from October 2024 to February 2025 is on sale now. 

You can book at DisneyCruiseLine.com/AUNZ or by contacting your preferred travel agent.

Health and safety measures, ports of call and offerings may change at any time without notice. On board venues, experiences, services and offerings may be modified or limited in capacity or availability, and are subject to restrictions, cancellation or closure without notice. See disneycruise.com/updates . 

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Find the best cruise for you

Featured cruise deals, cruising guide, why take a cruise vacation.

If you have a place on your bucket list, chances are, a cruise will get you there – provided the destination is along a coastline or inland waterway. Cruises cover the world, taking millions of passengers each year to regions such as the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, the Mediterranean and even Antarctica. Cruising offers a tremendous value, with trips that include your lodging, meals and entertainment – all rolled into one. Some luxury cruise lines even offer fully inclusive vacations, which cover drinks and tours ashore. And best of all, cruising means seeing the world conveniently after unpacking only once.

Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids, tweens and teens. While most are free, nursery programs can cost extra. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship (and line) for your travel style. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with land vacations at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- every extra.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their stateroom location but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors – that is staterooms over suites.

Cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes even lower.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

While being flexible date wise will always get you the best last-minute cruise deals, it's particularly helpful if you live near a cruise port and can quickly drive there. That way you'll probably be able to jump on those deals that might pop up just a week or two before the ship is scheduled to sail.

Or if you don't have flexibility with either departure dates or embarkation locations, be willing to compromise on exact destinations. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or so-called shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise is and costs on average, so both are already on your radar. When you see it drop, pounce! (Many cruise lines update pricing several times per day, so preparation is crucial.)

Best cruises in 2024

There's truly a cruise style and ship for everyone, and that has never been more the case than in 2024, as vessels continue to come in an array of sizes – from riverboats and expedition vessels to the largest-ever mega ships. And it's not an exaggeration to say some are loaded with so many activities that you couldn't possibly enjoy them all in a single sailing.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations themselves. The Caribbean is always a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, is also a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and even Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line for a great multi-generational voyage.

Or on the smaller side, by comparison, river cruising remains a hot ticket item this year, with exciting routes that send eager guests down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to lesser-frequented locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam, or soon the Magdalena River in Colombia. Popular river cruises embark in timeless cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. River cruise lines to consider encompass Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruises, Tauck, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Riverside Luxury Cruises, as well as American Cruise Lines for a domestic alternative.

If you're an adventurer at heart, an expedition cruise might be best for you. These voyages, often onboard small ships (only a few hundred passengers tops), offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world – from pole to pole – including the Arctic, Alaska, Australia, Greenland, the Galapagos and, of course, Antarctica. Passengers will spend their time zodiacing, kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), Ponant and Quark Expeditions, as well as an ever-expanding list that now even extends to Seabourn and Viking.

But for the most decadent form of travel, luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard small to median-sized ships (usually under a thousand passengers) with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service, not to mention the finest dining at sea. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be on the smaller size, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships simply cannot access -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Explora Journeys, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and upcoming Four Seasons Yachts.

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Executive Secretary, Marine & Safety Operations - Disney Cruise Line

Job summary:.

Do you love to immerse yourself in a team and gain deep departmental knowledge that enables you to help everyone that comes your way? If so, then the Executive Secretary position in Disney Cruise Line Marine & Safety Operations at The Walt Disney Company might be right for you!

This position supports one Executive Director, one Director, and their teams of professionals around the world. You would be a part of Disney Cruise Line Marine & Technical Operations team. As part of this team, you will be integral to ensuring our operation runs smoothly by connecting the shoreside and shipboard teams. You would make the biggest impact by exercising good judgment in completing key tasks and managing multiple, competing priorities. These key tasks could include calendar management (conference calls, Zoom, etc.), Travel & Expense reports, arranging travel, ordering business cards, manage generic email inboxes, handling complex spreadsheets, booking rooms, project work (as needed) and more!

We are looking for an experienced professional who is flexible, adaptable, and has a positive mindset.

Responsibilities 

• Organize, prioritize, and support calendar scheduling for the Executive Director and Director including meeting and presentation planning.
• Process expense reports and requests for payments in the Concur System for Executives
• Responsible for distributing communications/documents from shore side to vessels.
• Book Travel for your Executive leader(s) and advise team on unusual travel booking needs for most cost-effective T&E bookings. Build travel itineraries, if needed.
• Proactively resolve problems and pitch in to help.
• Partner with MTO Support on departmental supplies and equipment as needed through Coupa and the upkeep of the floor’s kitchen supplies.
• Order other resources such as PDA requests, business cards as needed for shoreside Marine and Safety department and the fleet’s Staff Captain positions.
• Assist with Dry Dock planning and Newbuild arrivals (arranging for sailings on voyages, as needed) and preparations for the Marine and Safety Team by assisting the MTO Project Scheduler team with preparing joining letters, compiling rooming lists, as required in support of the project, Coordinate travel arrangements for the Marine & Safety Team for projects.
• Support the IRGS team in efforts of Ship Clearance Day visit requests for the Marine & Safety Operations team, as needed.
• Assist with on-boarding new cast members by partnering with the MTO Support team.
• Communicate and forward information to the Marine and Safety team as well as the Deck teams as appropriate for the M&S Operations.
• Prepare professional PowerPoint Decks, Excel spreadsheets, knowledge of Adobe PDF required.
• Work closely with the Executive on activities, projects, meetings, event planning and office logistics.

Basic Qualifications

• A minimum five years of experience supporting business executives in large organizations in an administrative role.
• Proven success partnering and interacting with all levels of Cast Members/Employees including Executive Leadership
• Strong proficiency with standard office tools such as Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel
• Strong technical skills with drive to find improvement in process and application of tasks and willing to learn new skills.
• Professional and highly discreet while maintaining absolute confidentiality.
• Effective communication skills, including diplomatic and professional handling of telephone and email communications.
• Ability to be pro-active, resourceful, flexible, and responsible.
• Ability to take initiative and anticipate needs.
• Ability to work effectively and efficiently in a fast-paced and demanding environment with the ability to be flexible with work schedule including occasional overtime, after approval.
• Extremely well organized and attentive to detail
• Strong partnering skills – must be comfortable working in a collaborative Admin Team with MTO support.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with using printer plotters for reprinting ship’s plans and files.

Required Education

• High school degree or equivalent experience

Preferred Education

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

About Disney Cruise Line:

A leader in the cruise industry, Disney Cruise Line provides a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and children can experience all the magic that Disney has to offer. Guests can sail out of ports around the world on exciting itineraries to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska and Europe, among others. Aboard the fleet of five ships – the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish – and Disney’s private island paradise in the Bahamas - Castaway Cay, crew members provide guests with unparalleled service, enchanting storytelling and immersive family entertainment that only Disney can deliver.

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with Magical Cruise Company, Limited , which is part of a business we call Disney Cruise Line .

Magical Cruise Company, Limited is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a rapidly changing world.

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