disney fantasy cruise magic band

Guide to DisneyBand+ (Magicband+ on the Disney Cruise Line)

Posted on Published: 01/23/2024

If you’ve been to the Disney parks in the United States, you may already be familiar with the concept of the MagicBand. Now, the convenience of the MagicBand has come to the Disney Cruise Line. With the optional DisneyBand+, you can access your room, make purchases, and get magical surprises on this hands-free, wearable device.

Continue reading to learn more about the DisneyBand+, and determine whether you need a new DisneyBand.

While MagicBands have been around for a while, the DisneyBand+ (the Disney Cruise Line version of the Magicband) is relatively new. It’s currently available on sailings on the Disney Magic, the Disney Wish, the Disney Dream, and the Disney Fantasy.

If you aren’t familiar, the DisneyBand+ is a waterproof wristband that is adjustable to fit almost all guests. It can be easily removed, but you can also swim and shower with it if you’d like.

Do you need a DisneyBand+?

You may be wondering if you need a DisneyBand+. For some cruise lines, like Virgin Voyages, a wearable device is needed and is provided at no cost. The DisneyBand, however, is different. It’s offered at an additional cost and is not needed. You can still use your Key to the World card to make purchases and access your room.

If you’ve been on a Disney Cruise before with kids, you are probably familiar with the Disney Oceaneer bands that are provided to kids entering the kids’ clubs. These bands are similar to the MagicBand+ but don’t have all of the features. The Disney Oceaneer band is given to guests at no cost but must be returned at the end of your sailing or you’ll be charged a fee for them.

Is a DisneyBand+ Worth it?

The number one question is whether or not a DisneyBand+ is worth it. We’ll explain more of the features below, but in our experience, it really wasn’t worth it. The functionality is a little limited, and the Key to the World card serves the same purpose. The magical touches – when the band lights up during parts of your voyage – were fun to experience in the beginning but were eventually not as exciting.

What does a DisneyBand+ do?

So, what exactly does a DisneyBand+ do? Here are some of the features:

• You can use it to board the ship upon arrival on embarkation day
• The DisneyBand+ will act as your room key and give you stateroom access in an easy, hands-free manner
• The DisneyBand+ can be used to make purchases to your Disney Cruise Line account. In some cases, we were asked to remove the band to make the purchase. You need to have a credit card or other payment method set up on your account.
• The DisneyBand+ can be used in place of the Oceaneer band at Disney’s Oceaneer Club and Labs, so your child won’t need to wear two bands
• The DisneyBand+ lights up during certain times on the ship, including in restaurants, during the fireworks, etc.
• Your band will be scanned by the onboard photographers when taking photos and will connect to your account.

Even if you have a DisneyBand+, you will still receive a Key to the World card. It will be located outside of your stateroom door when you first arrive. If you are a Castaway Club member , you’ll also get a complimentary lanyard so you can wear your key card around your neck.

What does a Disneyband + not do?

Wondering if there’s anything the Disneyband+ doesn’t do? While it does offer almost all of the features of the original Key to the World card, it cannot be used to leave or return to the ship at foreign cruise ports of call. You will still need to scan your Key to the World card when leaving and returning to the ship.

On some of the ships, you’ll also need your Key to the World card inserted in the slot to operate the lights in your stateroom.

How to get a DisneyBand+

Are you ready to get a DisneyBand+? You can purchase them 45 days in advance of your sailing if your sailing is eligible. They will be shipped directly to your home and should be connected to your account. You can get the Disney Cruise Line limited bands by purchasing this way.

These DisneyBands will also be personalized with your first name on the inside of the band, on the back of the face. Note that you will need to purchase bands for your whole party when buying them online in advance.

A limited selection of DisneyBand+ is available for purchase onboard the Disney Cruise Line ships. During my sailing, there were only a couple of styles, and the ones we had ordered in advance were not available. So, if you have a specific style you want, you should order them in advance.

Already have MagicBand+ bands from a theme park vacation? These can be used on the Disney Cruise Line. Make sure they are connected to your account if you want to use them right away.

How to set up and use the DisneyBand+?

If you order the DisneyBand+ from Disney Cruise Line, the only thing you should need to do in advance is to charge them. They should be connected to your account.

On our sailing, the cast member who checked us in got an error message when trying to activate our bands. Therefore, we had to go to guest services once onboard to fix the issue. It only took a few minutes but it was annoying to have to go through this extra step after purchasing the bands.

Using Your Band Past Your Disney Cruise

Once your cruise is over, you can still use your DisneyBand+ on visits to the theme parks. At Walt Disney World, you can use it at the theme parks and the Disney resort hotels. In addition, MagicBands are also being used at Disneyland Resort in California.

Battery on the DisneyBand+

Unlike the original MagicBand that launched at the Walt Disney World Resort, the DisneyBand+ (like the MagicBand+) has a rechargeable battery. The bands do come with a USB charger, but you’ll want to make sure you pack them if you’ve purchased them in advance.

We charged our bands each night of our Disney cruise vacation. While some of the functionality will work when the battery is depleted, the band won’t light up or interact with the ship. You can connect the band to your Disney Cruise Line Navigator app through Bluetooth, and it will show you the battery level.

So, why do we feel the band isn’t necessarily worth it as a separate purchase?

• We were sometimes asked to take the band off for purchases, making it easier to use the card
• Our bands weren’t able to connect right away
• You can’t use the bands for exiting or entering the ship at foreign ports
• The bands are expensive and aren’t entirely necessary

But, if there’s a style you love, or will use the bands for an upcoming Disneyland or Walt Disney World vacation, then you may find the DisneyBand+ to be a worthwhile purchase for your upcoming sailing.

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Should I get Magic+ Bands for a Disney Cruise?

By: Author Morgan

Posted on Published: August 31, 2023  - Last updated: October 9, 2023

Looking for Disney Cruise tips ? Wondering if you should get Magic+ Bands for a Disney Cruise ? Here is our complete experience using the bands on the Disney Fantasy!

Magic bands have been a fixture in Disney World for a while now, and in 2023 they have made them available for Disney cruises, too.

If you already go to Disney World a lot, you might already have the band. Note that it has to be the PLUS band for it to work on the ship.

We went on the second cruise on the Disney Fantasy to ever use Magic+ bands, and so I am excited to report back how we felt about them, as non-Disney people!

Magic bands are a “nice to have,” but not “need to have” item for Disney cruise. If you have the budget, I say definitely order them. If you are having to question the cost, do not let this be a financial stress, just skip them.

Should I buy a Magic+ band for my kid for a cruise?

This is actually a more important question than if you should get them for the adults, in my opinion.

The kids club will actually give every kid their own magic band so they can be tracked inside the kids club. These are not the same as the other magic bands and only work for counting in and out of the club, but it will make small kids feel included.

If your child is old enough that you want them to able to get in and out of your room alone unassisted, and you are OK with them having charge privileges on the ship, then I would get them their own magic band.

The bands are adjustable and actually the end can be torn off to make it smaller and fit a small child’s wrist.

But, if you have young kids, that will not be alone on the ship, you do not need to get them a magic band. They will be fine with the kids club band.

What can a Magic+ band do on a Disney Cruise?

We went on a weeklong cruise on the Fantasy and our Magic bands:

• open the room door
• can be used to pay – though you had to take it off and hand it to people to scan
• could be scanned at cameras to hook photos up to your room
• light up and buzz during fireworks and shows

Please note that you still need a Key to the World Card (and photo ID for adults) for each passenger to get on and off the ship at ports.

Is a Magic+ band worth it?

Whether a magic band is worth it for you will just depend on your budget and the number of people in your group.

For me, ordering magic bands with a pre-cruise discount, they were only $25 each. In the grand scheme of how much we spent on this cruise, that’s essentially nothing.

I found it very convenient and I think it was worth the $50 total, especially if we go on another cruise.

However, if you will miss that $25, it would probably be better to spend it on two drinks on the cruise then on a nice-to-have arm band.

What if I lose my Magic+ band on a Disney cruise?

Sean lost his magic band at a show one night (we think) – they honestly fell off slightly easy. He went to guest services desk that night and they had a whole pile of them. He just had to identify it and provide his room number and they gave it right back.

This is why it was nice to have it engraved – it made it super easy to identify!

Any more questions about the Magic Band?

Thanks for reading!

Hey there, I’m Morgan, the creative mind behind CelebratingWithKids.com! As a parent of two lively little ones, I’ve made it my mission to turn ordinary days into extraordinary adventures, sharing playful activities, thoughtful toy reviews, and delightful printables to help families celebrate every moment together. 🎉👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🎈

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Hands-free fun: Disney Cruise Line introducing wearable DisneyBand+ this summer

It's been 10 years since Disney changed the game in its theme parks by introducing MagicBands, which are roughly the size of an Apple Watch and allow you to tap into the park using your ticket, access a Lightning Lane, open your Disney resort room door and even charge a Mickey ice cream bar instead of digging out your credit card.

And just last year, the MagicBand got some new tricks with the introduction of a more interactive MagicBand+ . However, while MagicBands have been at Disney World for a decade, they haven't been used on board the Disney Cruise Line ships.

On Disney's ships, the way to pay for purchases and open your cabin door has been with a "Key to the World" card that many keep worn around their necks in a not-so-attractive plastic lanyard.

But things are about to get more magical at sea.

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

Wearable technology coming to Disney Cruise Line

Disney has shared that for the first time, DisneyBand+ is coming to Disney Cruise Line, as first announced on the Disney Parks Blog .

From what we can tell, these are MagicBands by another name and will debut first as a preview on Disney Wish this summer and later make their way on additional ships and sailings. This wearable DisneyBand+ can be used when getting on the ship, unlocking your cabin door, charging purchases, tapping to get your photos synced to your account by the ship photographers and more.

These DisneyBands+ will also work for the kiddos while they are in the kids clubs, which had previously utilized a special band that looked like a MagicBand but only tracked the location of the kids while they were within the Oceaneer Club and Lab and served as a way for them to scan in and out.

Related: 26 tips for sailing with Disney Cruise Line

How much will DisneyBands+ cost?

Once they go on sale, DisneyBands+ will be available for $34.99 for solid-color designs and $44.99 for themed designs, with a $10 discount if you order at least 11 days before embarkation if you are a U.S. resident. There will be exclusive designs available only to Disney Cruise Line guests.

Can you use a MagicBand+ on a Disney cruise instead of a DisneyBand+?

What we are potentially most excited about with this announcement is that you don't have to spend more to buy a cruise-specific DisneyBand+.

The MagicBand+ you already use at Disney World or Disneyland will work on the ship, too. And conversely, if you want some of the cruise-specific looks, then your DisneyBand+ will work in the parks. This is great news, given that the cost of the bands does add up when you start buying for the whole family.

Related: How to save money on a Disney Cruise

Bottom line

There's no question that MagicBand+ (and now, DisneyBand+) makes vacation easier, with virtually everything you need available with the tap of a wrist. Having them make their debut this summer on select Disney ships is welcome news -- and we certainly won't miss the omnipresent plastic lanyards that have appeared in countless family cruise photos.

This is just one small piece of the announcements from Disney Cruise Line this year, including:

• New highest Castaway Club tier for those with 25 sailings to celebrate its 25th year
• New island destination, Lighthouse Point, opening in the summer of 2024
• Disney Treasure reaches major construction milestone

Disney’s New Mandate: Guests Banned from Handling or Buying Merchandise

in Disney Parks , Tokyo Disneyland

Yesterday, Tokyo DisneySea, owned by Oriental Land Co, surprised their guests by opening Fantasy Springs, the new expansion to the park, to all guests in a soft opening. Everything was available to guests, except for one thing.

Scheduled to officially open its gates on June 6, 2024, Fantasy Springs will encompass three enchanting realms: Frozen Kingdom, Peter Pan’s Never Land, and Rapunzel’s Forest, alongside a hotel nestled within the park’s expanse.

While Tokyo Disneyland boasts its own rendition of Peter Pan’s escapades, Fantasy Springs elevates the whimsy with an entire section dedicated to the eternal youth and his merry band. Here, visitors will find two rides, a themed restaurant, and a popcorn stand.

Anchored in Disney’s iconic 1953 animation Peter Pan , the six-minute ride promises a 3D immersive experience, immersing guests in the thrilling exploits of Peter, Wendy, Michael, and John as they navigate encounters with pirates, soar alongside fairies, and frolic with the Lost Kids.

Adjacent to the Peter Pan section lies a family-friendly two-minute buggy ride inspired by the beloved Disney Fairies franchise, inviting guests to join Tinker Bell on a whimsical journey through Pixie Hollow, delivering parcels amidst changing seasons.

After a delightful jaunt through the Fairy Valleys, patrons can relish a meal fit for the Lost Kids at the nearby Lookout Cookout restaurant, offering delectable treats like chicken tenders, seaweed fritters, and shrimp chips within a charming treehouse setting.

As the curtain rises on the Frozen Kingdom, a magnificent recreation of Arendelle Castle, home to royal sisters Elsa and Anna, takes center stage. Within its walls lies Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey, a breathtaking 6.5-minute boat ride adorned with stunning animatronics and cutting-edge projection mapping, weaving an enchanting tale of magic and sisterhood.

In close proximity, Oaken’s OK Foods offers a quick-service counter fashioned after Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post, where guests can refuel with savory delights.

While Peter Pan and Frozen -themed attractions grace several Disney parks worldwide, Tokyo DisneySea marks a first with a dedicated ride inspired by the beloved Tangled.  Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival is the crown jewel of this section, offering a captivating five-minute voyage through Rapunzel’s enthralling tale, from her fateful encounter with Flynn Rider to the kingdom’s mesmerizing lantern festival.

For those eager to immerse themselves further in Rapunzel’s world, The Snuggly Duckling beckons, a tavern reminiscent of the lively establishment where Rapunzel captured the hearts of a band of ruffians.

Accompanying the grandeur of Fantasy Springs is the integration of a new hotel complex, offering two distinct experiences: the opulent Fantasy Chateau boasting 419 deluxe rooms and the luxurious Grand Chateau featuring 56 premium rooms.

While the latter comes with a hefty price tag starting at ¥300,000 per night, the more affordable Fantasy Chateau offers rates beginning at ¥63,500 per night, making it an enticing option for those seeking convenient access to Fantasy Springs and exclusive privileges at the new attractions.

With the official opening set for June 6, 2024 , Tokyo DisneySea park tickets for visits spanning June through mid-July are now available for online booking, priced between ¥8,900 to ¥10,900 based on the chosen date of admission.

Tokyo local Chris took to X to share the news that while Fantasy Springs is not officially open, it is allowing guests of Tokyo DisneySea to enter the land in a soft opening, weeks before its official debut.

Looks like it’s open to all guests you can just walk in.

Looks like it’s open to all guests you can just walk in. pic.twitter.com/dRyjQ8XSVq — Chris Explorer (@tdrexplorer) May 16, 2024

At the moment, it is not clear if Fantasy Springs will be open every day until its official opening, but for now, guests can ride the attractions, eat the food, and roam around, but they cannot buy or even touch the merchandise!

Disney World fan site WDW News Today shared that the shop Fantasy Springs Gifts is fully stocked, but the merchandise is not allowed to be touched or purchased, since it has not been officially released yet.

The most Tokyo Disney thing ever: They opened Fantasy Springs Gifts fully stocked, but you can’t buy OR EVEN TOUCH the exclusive merchandise because “it has not been released yet” 

The most Tokyo Disney thing ever: They opened Fantasy Springs Gifts fully stocked, but you can’t buy OR EVEN TOUCH the exclusive merchandise because “it has not been released yet” 😂🤣 pic.twitter.com/G5JwZC8XZM — WDW News Today (@WDWNT) May 16, 2024

In the photos, we can see Frozen merchandise being sold through the displayed Olaf plush, and Lost Boys hats, and stuffed keychains. It is likely that this merchandise will officially go on sale on June 6, 2024, but for now, guests can start to compile their wishlist!

Tokyo DisneySea’s Fantasy Springs expansion is the largest that Oriental Land Co. has produced at Tokyo Disney Resort, and while the park isn’t owned by The Walt Disney Company, many fans are looking to the expansion as a benchmark for the level of theming and detail that should go into the expansions at the other Disney parks with the $60 billion that Disney CEO Bob Iger has promised, over the next 10 years.

Aside from Fantasy Springs, at Tokyo DisneySea, visitors have an array of enchanting experiences to indulge in. From thrilling expeditions like Journey to the Center of the Earth and Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull, to whimsical adventures in Mermaid Lagoon and Toy Story Mania!, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Guests can explore the steampunk-inspired Mysterious Island, embark on a leisurely cruise through Venetian Gondolas, or unleash their inner explorer at Fortress Explorations. As night falls, the waterfront comes alive with the mesmerizing Fantasmic! show, while Aquatopia offers a whimsical aquatic adventure.

These are just a few highlights of the many magical experiences awaiting guests at Tokyo DisneySea, where every corner offers a new opportunity for adventure and wonder.

What do you think of Fantasy Springs? 

MagicBand+ Review: Good, Bad & Ugly

MagicBand+ is Walt Disney World’s new interactive wearable device with a variety of enhancements, plus two games. This ‘real world’ review covers our firsthand experiences using it for multiple full days in the parks to determine the good, bad, and ugly of the device, to help you decide whether to “plus” your WDW vacation.

For those who are unfamiliar with it, MagicBand+ (MB+) is the interactive upgrade to the iconic MagicBand, offering all of the features of the first two generations of that the Walt Disney World wearable. Like the normal MagicBand, the MB+ can scan to enter parks or Lightning Lanes. Additionally, you can connect your PhotoPass memories, unlock your Walt Disney World Resort hotel room door, charge purchases to your hotel room, and more.

Unlike those, when it’s activated, the MagicBand+ has color-changing lights, haptic vibrations, and gesture recognition. There are also MagicBand+ minigames revolving around Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary statues and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Suffice to say, there’s a lot you can do with MagicBand+ at WDW. For basic background encompassing everything you need to know about the interactive bands–plus answers to questions you might have–see our FAQ for MagicBand+ at Walt Disney World!

One other bit of background that’s worth mentioning is that Discount Pre-Arrival MagicBand Plus Designs are now available for on-site Walt Disney World resort hotel guests and Annual Passholders. Those cost $25 for solid colors and $35 for premium designs, both of which offer a savings of $10 off what you’d pay in stores at Walt Disney World or on shopDisney.com.

We chose this option, ordering our MagicBand+ on the device’s launch day for resort stays a couple of weeks later. That turned out to be a bit of an ordeal due to high demand and limited inventory, but Walt Disney World addressed that problem. Hopefully, it’s a non-issue for anyone else going forward.

The MagicBand+ device we tested was nearly dead upon purchase, and did not have enough battery life to complete the required day one software update. This is common, and is one big reason to do the pre-arrival purchase–so you can charge your MagicBand+ and updating its software prior to leaving home.

If you buy a band off the shelf at one of the theme park gift shops and intend upon using it that day, plan accordingly. You will likely need a battery charger (which you absolutely should have if visiting Walt Disney World) and a bit of free time.

Honestly, this is a big “bad” right off the bat. In isolation, it’s not necessarily an issue. The MB+ setup steps are simple enough and intuitive, overnight charging isn’t the worst thing in the world, and everyone reading this probably has experience with software updates.

The problem is the compounding effect. MagicBand+ does not exist in isolation. It exists at a time when Walt Disney World has Advance Dining Reservations, Genie+ and Lightning Lane, Mobile Order, virtual queues, and more. The reason you “absolutely should have” a battery charger if visiting Walt Disney World is because it’s difficult to make it through a day in the parks without draining your phone.

One thing that many fans and first-timers like about the regular ole “dumb” MagicBand is that it didn’t require screen time. Sure, it’s not as sophisticated as an Apple Watch or other wearables, but it got the job done and–critically–got out of the way so you could enjoy your vacation time with family. (Although I should note that legacy MagicBands did not  work this well at launch.)

This is something that’s easy to overlook for locals and other MagicBand+ reviewers who are intimately familiar with the planning process for Walt Disney World. To most of us, it’s second nature. I’ve mastered the ins and outs of doing Walt Disney World, which is definitely not a humblebrag–much of my mental capacity is devoted to this stuff, which has little practical value in the real world!

The point is that for WDW diehards, learning how to use MagicBand+ might seem simple enough and an insignificant addition to your planning or visiting rituals. Take a step back and imagine being a first-timer or infrequent visitor–or explaining everything they need to know. You will literally sound like a crazy person. It’s that overwhelming and unnecessarily convoluted.

MagicBand+ adds yet another layer into the existing morass of Walt Disney World vacation planning. If you’re a first-timer who is already overwhelmed, I would recommend stopping right here–don’t bother with MagicBand Plus. If you’re a Walt Disney World veteran, let’s continue on to determine whether the MB+ is worth it for you…

The main selling point MagicBand+ is the interactivity in the parks. There’s a color-changing effect when using touchpoints, and the MagicBand+ engages with the Disney Enchantment fireworks at Magic Kingdom and Harmonious nighttime spectacular at EPCOT.

I’m a sucker for stuff that lights up, and I appreciate some of these effects. With that said, Walt Disney World shouldn’t even advertise the nighttime spectacular interactivity. This is better filed under “fun surprise if you happen to notice it” than actual feature.

Had I not already heard from others that this was incredibly underwhelming, I would’ve assumed our MB+ was defective or we weren’t standing in the right spot. (It wasn’t and we were.) For the vast majority of Enchantment, the MagicBand+ doesn’t do anything at all. Harmonious is better by comparison, but not in absolute terms.

It’s fair to expect more of this because Disney has literally been down this path before. Glow with the Show debuted over a decade ago and offered better integration with nighttime spectaculars at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Hong Kong Disneyland. During Paint the Night parade’s show stops at HKDL, you could literally use a light-up paintbrush to change the color of performer costumes!

Not a huge deal, as the main interactivity comes via two mini-games. One in Disney’s Hollywood Studios that’s called Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters. The other is throughout all four parks, and is called Disney Fab 50 Scavenger Hunt.

Disney Fab 50 Scavenger Hunt is fine. We found it cute at first, a fun way to interact with the statues scattered around Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom to celebrate the highlights of Disney+ and/or Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary.

Admittedly, we are not the target audience for this and that’s also worth acknowledging. After waving at a few characters and getting them to say hello, we were “good” on Disney Fab 50 Scavenger Hunt. However, we saw plenty of parents with small children who were much more enamored with this. Disney fans also tend to be collectors, so a scavenger hunt probably speaks to a lot of other older enthusiasts.

Viewed objectively, this mini-game is decent. If you want to “collect” the characters, you need to use the Play Disney Parks app. If not, you can simply walk up to them and wave. We had some issues with the statues recognizing our gestures, but this was usually resolved by ~30 seconds of flailing our arms about in front of them.

My only other complaint is that it doesn’t seem like the statues were created with this game in mind. Rather, it’s likely that the statues came first and the idea for the game came later, with the locations retrofit to add sound effects.

We mention this because Tokyo Disney Resort has been doing interactive in-park anniversary statues for a decade, and they’re better than this. Those also aren’t nearly as technically sophisticated as MagicBand Plus, and yet, they work more reliably and have much more dazzling effects.

Again, not a huge deal, as Batuu Bounty Hunters in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the  true star of the show when it comes to MagicBand Plus. Honestly, it feels like the entire idea for MagicBand+ was birthed from this–that one of the Imagineers working on Galaxy’s Edge had the idea for this minigame, and they fleshed out the rest of the stuff from there. Totally speculative, but it wouldn’t surprise me if this is how MagicBand+ came to fruition. Just about everything else feels like an afterthought.

We both loved Batuu Bounty Hunters in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and consider it the unequivocal highlight of MagicBand Plus, but even this minigame isn’t perfect. Let’s start by dispensing with the bad…

Our day playing Batuu Bounty Hunters started with the MagicBand+ wanting to be updated again and the Play Disney Parks app also needing an update. After knocking out these updates, the Play Disney Parks app wouldn’t load Batuu Bounty Hunters–it kept getting hung up on a mostly-blank loading screen. (A friend in the park was having the exact same issue, leading us to believe that it might’ve been a matter of high demand?)

Reading this from the comfort of your air-conditioned office doesn’t set the proper “mood” for this. The feels like temperature at Disney’s Hollywood Studios was 104° and the humidity was likewise dialed up to 11. I had sweat through my shirt just walking from the front of the park to Galaxy’s Edge, and this “bad” experience was moments from devolving into “ugly.” Thankfully, it started working.

That wasn’t the only problem, though. Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters uses a hot/cold system to indicate whether you’re getting closer to bounties, and it’s difficult to ascertain the color in direct sunlight. (See above.)

It’s also tough to do this game as a team since the vibrating and color-changing MB+ is on one person’s wrist. This could be a problem for parents and children…or husbands and wives.

After completing each bounty, you need to return to Black Spire Station to the Guild Master to collect your credits. Before starting each bounty, you need to go to the Bounty Board next to that.

If it’s a busy day, this means waiting in two separate lines before/after every single bounty–and there are ~20 of them. We often spent 10 minutes at the Black Spire Station between bounties. That’s too long–less time was often spent on the bounties themselves.

Hopefully, this is less of a problem in the future when the “new Star Wars smell” wears off, but we played Batuu Bounty Hunters a few weeks after launch (albeit on a weekend), and it was still busy. The interactivity of redeeming a bounty is cool, but it would be great if starting a new bounty could be initiated from the app.

Finally, Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters is a huge battery drain. This goes for both your MagicBand+ and your phone. We played the game for a couple of hours, and it took both devices down to almost nothing. You definitely want to purchase a MB+  before  your DHS day so you can charge it overnight.

Even with all of those complaints, we really enjoyed Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters. The gameplay is simple, but incredibly satisfying. Once you overcome the learning curve and whatever headaches you might encounter, it’s a lot of fun.

Walt Disney World fans who are averse to more screen time need not apply, but for those looking at interactivity in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge that’s actually engaging and not overly app-based (like some of the previous Play Disney Parks content), this is the sweet spot. It marries the tangible and digital worlds wonderfully, and is compelling and addicting.

Admittedly, I enjoyed Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters more than Sarah did (middle aged men are the main demo, judging by the bounty board lines) but we both liked it. I’d go as far as to say it adds a new dimension to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, giving more life to the land. (It’s a small start–more like this is definitely  needed.)

Starting the game at sunset and continuing as night falls over Batuu is definitely the way to go. It makes Black Spire Outpost more dynamic and energetic, and you feel like you’re part of that. It’s even better than the Batuu excursion that’s part of Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser. (As cheesy as it sounds, this is the land delivering on its promise of letting guests “live their own Star Wars adventure.”)

In short, Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters is  the  reason to purchase the MagicBand Plus. This minigame is, without question, the highlight of the new MB+ wearable. It’s not perfect, but once you overcome the issues, it’s an engaging and satisfying minigame that you could easily spend a few hours playing. Star Wars fans, kids, and those who savor simple gameplay will all get a kick out of this.

While not for everyone, Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters is worth your limited Walt Disney World vacation time if you fall into the above categories. We’d recommend purchasing a MagicBand+ to share (or one for each child in your family) in order to play this–and do it when the ‘bright suns’ aren’t high overhead.

Ultimately, that ringing endorsement of Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters is also an indictment of MagicBand+ as a whole. Not only is the Galaxy’s Edge minigame the main reason to “plus” your MagicBand…it’s the  only  reason. Unfortunately, nothing else really moves the needle for the new wearable. The other interactive features range from unnoticeable to okay, although perhaps we’re undervaluing the statue scavenger hunt.

No matter, as this recommendation (or lack thereof) is less about the interactivity and more about the downsides. The poor battery life, nightly charging, glitches, updates, etc. all make the MagicBand+ more of a hassle than it’s worth, from our perspective.

Walt Disney World is already increasing incorporating technology into the baseline park experience and vacation screen time is on the rise as a result. This optional product simply is not good enough to justify layering on even more of that and the potential headaches arising therefrom. Our recommendation is sticking to the cheaper and comparatively frictionless OG MagicBand for daily use. (Sure, you can use a dead MagicBand+ like a regular MagicBand, but why pay more for that?) Sometimes dumber devices are better.

Nevertheless, we remain hopeful that Walt Disney World will continue to iterate on the MagicBand Plus, improving its interactivity and eliminating issues, and adding more substantive content and minigames. I was really excited about the MagicBand+ and hoped it would be a meaningful step forward for Walt Disney World’s wearables, but so far, it does not live up to most of its potential. Like Genie+ and Lightning Lanes, the MagicBand+ feels rushed and glitchy, and probably would’ve benefited from more development time and resources before launching to the public.

Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews . To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!

YOUR THOUGHTS

What do you think of the new MagicBand+ at Walt Disney World? Have you played Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters or Disney Fab 50 Scavenger Hunt? What did you think of these minigames? What about the other interactive features of the MagicBand Plus? Do you think the MB+ is worth the extra money? What do you think are the biggest downsides or problems with the new wearable? Have you had any problems with MagicBand+ at WDW? If so, what were they and how did you resolve the issues? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing your feedback–even when you disagree with us–is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

Really great info on MB+! Buttttt….can we get a link to that dres Sarah is wearing? SO cute and looks really comfy!

I charged our magic bands+, we arrive Feb 5. Will they work right away, a software update was mentioned, how would you know about that and how to do it? Also, a pin number was mentioned to make purchases in the store, and you need to stop by the hotel check in to choose and set your pin, I thought that was what the magic band did, was eliminate the need to stop by check in?

If not for the requirement to use MB+ at Disneyland, I would have kept using my older ones. Yes. it works at both resorts, just register the one band at both web sites

Tom I would love to hear your experience using magicband+ at Disneyland. I bought them for my family for our Disneyland trip in June of this year because we loved our magicband 2.0s from our WDW trip last year. I am planning to then use the magicband+ in 2024 when we go back to WDW. Is it easy to transfer? Disneyland app appears different in that everything is on my account and you don’t set up a friends and family list. My kids will not have phones so I want to make sure that their bands will work both in Disneyland and in WDW. Thoughts on the ease of going between the two?

Just returned from a week in the parks, all five of us had MagicBand+ that we ordered months ago to be sure they arrived in time (they came right away!). Going to echo what most other commenters have said: not worth it for us (for sake of argument, we did not go to Hollywood Studios, so did not have an opportunity to play Batuu Bounty Hunters). We also quickly lost the novelty of the bands lighting up/vibrating near certain golden statues (but not all), and didn’t realize that you needed to be connected to the Play app in order to “collect” the statues – we refuse to give our young kids cell phones, and I sure was not about to drain my phone battery with yet another glitchy Disney app! Definitely agree with a disappointing fireworks interaction, and honestly I’d rather be watching the fireworks show than my wrist to see whatever limited thing the band would do.

Not yet mentioned is that the MagicBand+ ships with the charging cable but does not come with a charger block; you’ll need to bring your own. I don’t know about the other hotel/resort rooms, but our rooms at the Villas at Grand Floridian had exactly zero USB charging ports.

Also, mentioned once but worth repeating, is that the band faces are large with rather stiff bands. They did not fit our young children’s wrists well (ages 9, 7 and 5). They frequently asked to take them off and have one of us hold them in a pocket due to discomfort.

Oh well. The designs are fun. We’ll use the bands over and over at future stays and not change them unless a really nifty interactive game comes along. Wish we had instead gotten MagicBand 2.0 instead!

Spot on. It’s a major oversight that not all the resorts have USB ports to charge the MB+. Embarrassing from Disney’s end.

I was most disappointed in the clunkiness of it, as your kids experienced. I’m a grown woman and after never losing any of my 13 MBs over the same amount of trips, my MB+ fell off first day of use. Lost 🙁

In the small amount of time I had to ‘enjoy’ it, it left sweaty indentations on my wrist. Never had this with the older versions. Those were very comfortable. Too big and rigid to fit my wrist, the top left 1/2” gaps on either side. I am a sucker though… just bought the same MB+ for our trip this month. Not sure what to do to keep from losing it.

I wish I knew about the mini games. We knew about the statues and tried a few then gave up honestly. We were too busy trying to get to our next lightning lane pass, or to get to a show or to grab something to eat. Mostly, we were just trying to stay together and fought crowds like Ive never seen before, when much to my surprise a popular crowd calendar stated the crowds were between 4-6…HA. So no, I do not think the magic band + is worth it, at all. Maybe if I was able to visit the parks longer, like two days each or something we might. But we were there for the attractions and a bit of browsing. I really dont know what this audience is targeting, and I hope in the future they add more features. Because right now I feel like I wasted my money and should have used my old bands.

Can one person have two magic bands active for a single trip? We have gen 2 bands, but my daughter wants a plus. I was hoping she could also use the old one for the basic stuff to avoid worrying about charging constantly.

Yes for sure! We have 7-8 magic bands per person on our account. They all stay active once you register them. I always bring an extra into the park for my youngest son just in case it falls off or gets lost..

so to be clear, there are three versions of magic bands, and the first OG’s are not useable anymore right? the second gen MB’s will last forever except the photo pass thing? if so that kind of sucks you can recharge and use them forever for all “essential” services…that’s only possible with MB+?

Purchased 3 magic bands today, and I was the only one that wore it. However, the straps does not have a slot where the ending of the straps can hide and not get loose if that made any sense lol! But I caught it once when it slipped off my wrist, I made sure to make it tight the second time, but eventually it fell off and now it’s gone I’m hoping someone found it and turned it into lost and found, lowkey heart broken cause I felt so cool having it on. I want to purchase another one if no one turns it in but not sure if I want to pay another $35 or $28 if you have a pass (making it a total of $70 or $56 not including tax ):

We just returned from a 5 day trip to the World & I was quite disappointed in the MB+. It did vibrate on occasion but like others said, it wasn’t always clear WHY it was vibrating and we did our share of flailing in front of the golden statues to get it to do something…anything…?! Also the face of the band is bigger than the original dumb ones & it didn’t sit well on my wrist. I love the eco-friendly fact that it can be recharged but other than that, I will stick with the dumb bands from now on.

We prepurchased one band before our trip figuring our kids would want to try out the games and we could buy another if it was a must have. It was my primary magic band and I really didn’t care for it. It took me a while to realize that I needed to use the play app in conjunction, which I found cumbersome and annoying. The kids were excited about the scavenger hunt and we’d collected several characters before we knew we had to log in, assuming it was linked to MDE. The band vibrates and lights up whenever you pass one, so we thought we had “gotten” it only to realize we had to go back and get them all again with the other app. We also found that the app would frequently freeze up and not register the character we’d collected. My kids were incredibly disappointed to learn after leaving AK for the last time, that one of the four characters there didn’t actually register. They were eager to see what would happen when they got all of them.

As the primary wearer, I also found the lights and vibrations generally annoying. I knew it was alerting me to something, but could rarely discern what that was. Later when we logged into Play, I’d see some sort of achievement-related to a ride or show, but that usually was just an annoyance keeping me from getting back to opening the hunt game to actually log the character we were trying to get. I’ve seen videos of fun interactions with other premium magic bands at the magic band check points and was excited to have a unique music or light display with my magic band +, but I didn’t notice anything different from the rest of my family on the check point. My band did light up, but the touch point was the same as everyone else.

We tried the SW game and were underwhelmed. The kids were really excited to do it, but found it very difficult to see the lights to guide us. One time, we walked back and forth going from red to green and then back to red without any clear sense of where we could go or any door in sight. I wish I’d seen this review before our trip because it may have been more fun at night. Regardless, we enjoyed a previous app based SW interaction much more, but I was eager to get off my phone so we didn’t end up playing that one.

I think the features of the magic band + are most appealing to kids, but I find it frustrating that they need their own phone to really benefit from them. I’m glad we purchased one because we’d have been wondering about it if we hadn’t and perhaps the capabilities will be expanded in the future, but it’s definitely not a must have.

The magic bands plus started out as a nightmare. They would not open our Disney resort room doors ever. We worried they would not work as admission to the parks, but they did. They worked with the photo pass (sometimes after a few swipes). They worked when paying for food etc. lighting up in the parks happened occasionally, sometimes we wondered why. Absolutely not worth it. Get the battery one you don’t have to charge.

We ordered them for two of us out of 4 for our next trip. (Even my family did not see that much value so my teens decided to share one.) My expectations are set at what you described above. The more compelling reason for me is that the artwork on the new bands is really, really cute. I think these are so much cuter than the old remaining bands. I’m by no means an MB collector, but I am a sucker for Disney cute.

The one point you didn’t mention that baffles/annoys me: Rather than using a standard USB-C port (or one of the other 3-4 ports I regularly travel with cables for) Disney chose to use a different, unique charging connector. So its yet another dongle I need to travel with for each band. Stuff like that is so small but adds one more notch of complexity in planning a Disney trip (I travel a lot but now have more extras in a drawer just for Disney).

I do sometimes wonder if there’s a salty person behind the scenes thinking about how to make it incrementally more complicated to visit just one smidge at a time until we all give up. LOL

We just returned from 8 days in the park with MB+. Our take away by day 3 was that we could have saved some money and got the normal MB and it would not have impacted our trip at all. The novelty of the bands lighting up on occasion wore off fairly quickly, and the interactivity with the 50th statues was disappointing. We spent a considerable amount of time flailing like idiots to figure out how to trigger them. (We weren’t alone in that, if you stood and watched any statues for any amount of time you would see group after group of people doing the same). If you’re curious about the light and vibration effects, buy one MB+ for someone in your group, but stick with the regular for everyone else!

Hard “no” for MB+ for us. Our old Magic Bands will work indefinitely without charging. No interest in any bounty hunter game. Perhaps it may keep the ride line times down a little, though.

When fully charged, how long does the battery last? Does it need a re-charge every night, or can it get through a few days?

We charged every night as didn’t want more issues. 3 times at the front desk was enough to almost give up and purchase the older style.

Here now. Got the magicband+ for both kids (regular magic band for me) and cannot figure out a way to link their magic bands to the Disney play app to actually do the scavenger / bounty hunter games. Such a bummer.

Kristin –

If they are kids and you manage, link the bands to your MDE and don’t worry about the play app. We could t get it to work but my kids had fun just trying to find bounties. Hint though, because my husband missed this – you are looking for the data pad thingies on the walls to scan the MBs at to see if you have the bounty.

Is there a clock feature on the bands?

No, you can see the pictures on the faces when you purchase them, there is no screen.

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Tokyo Disney Resort

Inside New Groundbreaking ‘Peter Pan’ Ride at Fantasy Springs

by Julia Ohlrich , Internal Communications Specialist, Walt Disney Imagineering

When Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySea opens on June 6, 2024, among the new attractions will be Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure! Behind the scenes, Disney Imagineers have worked tirelessly to bring an all-new ride system to life, one that will allow you to fly over Never Land.

Through a combination of cutting-edge technology and creative collaboration with artists from Walt Disney Animation Studios, they crafted a ride that seamlessly blends ride vehicle motion with show elements and all-new animation, including a groundbreaking projection system.

On Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure, you’re invited to join Peter Pan, Tinker Bell and the Lost Kids in a daring quest to rescue John from the clutches of Captain Hook and his band of pirates. Aboard a boat sprinkled with pixie dust by Tinker Bell, you’ll soar into the sky and encounter iconic scenes and characters from the beloved Disney Animation film “Peter Pan,” including Wendy, Michael, the mischievous mermaids, and even Captain Hook’s formidable ship, the Jolly Roger.

Imagineers explored various ride systems, ultimately settling on a motion base to create the illusion of soaring through the air. This innovative approach, combined with meticulous attention to detail, resulted in a full six degrees of freedom motion base, a turntable and track system that delivers an unparalleled sense of flight and immersion.

The groundbreaking solid state projection system allows a single lens to create stunning 3D effects. This, coupled with meticulous testing and integration of practical sets, ensured a seamless blend of physical and digital elements, enhancing the overall immersive experience.

The magic of the new “Peter Pan” themed attraction is a testament to the collaborative spirit and ingenuity of our Imagineers and Disney Animation artists. This attraction has some of the highest levels of integration between show elements, custom animation and ride dynamics, creating an experience that resonates with guests.

We can’t wait to experience the amazing attractions Imagineers have brought to life for Fantasy Springs, whether it’s soaring through Never Land, helping Tinker Bell deliver packages in Pixie Hollow, journeying to the North Mountain or journeying to the Lantern Festival! 

Want to hear more about what’s being dreamed up, designed, and created? Follow the Imagineers every step of the way on  YouTube ,  Instagram  and stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes stories on the Disney Parks Blog. You never know where the next exciting bright idea might pop up!

Destinations: Tokyo Disney Resort

Headed your way June 16! I am soooo excited to experience Fantasy Springs!!! It all looks incredible!!

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I've Been on 6 Different Cruise Lines, Here Are the Pros and Cons of Each One

C ruising is one of my favorite kinds of family vacations . Whether I’m looking for sun-drenched beaches in the Caribbean , scenic views in Alaska, or city-hopping around the Mediterranean, cruises are a fun and hassle-free way to sample a variety destinations all around the world. Once I decide where I want to go on a cruise vacation, my next step is to pick a cruise line. 

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I’ve sailed with most of the major cruise lines for families that depart from the United States and around the globe, and each one has its pros and cons. If you’re thinking about taking a cruise at some point in the next year or so, now’s the time to book for the best prices and availability. But before you do, make sure you’re choosing a cruise line that fits your personality and vacation style.

Table of Contents:

• Disney Cruise Line
• Carnival Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Virgin Voyages
• Princess Cruises

How to Choose a Cruise Line: Pros and Cons of Each One

Here are my recommendations based on my personal cruise experiences with some of the world’s most popular cruise lines.

How we chose these cruise lines:  Read our methodology for selecting family cruise vacations .

1. Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line (DCL) pioneered the concept of family-friendly cruises. Its sailings give everyone a chance to see beloved Disney characters, watch fun Broadway-caliber shows, and have dedicated spaces and activities for kids and adults.

Pros of Disney Cruise Line

Stateroom design: One of my favorite things about Disney Cruise Line is the stateroom design. Fleet-wide, most of the staterooms have DCL’s signature split bathroom, where one bathroom has a toilet and sink and the other has a tub shower and a sink. Additionally, there’s lots of storage space, a privacy curtain to divide the room into two spaces, and luggage can easily roll under the bed. In some staterooms, there’s additional space for sleeping five people with a pull-down Murphy bed, which is great for larger families.

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Rotational dining: Disney is known for its rotational dining concept , where families will move through three distinct dining rooms at dinner throughout their cruise (and the dining room waitstaff moves with you). Each ship has different dining rooms, but a fan-favorite continues to be Animator’s Palate, which is available on the Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy , Disney Wonder , and Disney Magic . One of my favorite dining rooms is Worlds of Marvel on the Disney Wish (and coming to the Disney Treasure in 2024).

Dedicated spaces for kids and adults: Disney cruises cater to children with dedicated kids spaces, activities, and entertainment, but adults can have just as much fun. On all of Disney’s cruise ships , there are spaces that are exclusive for adults , too, like pools, lounges, bars, and restaurants. No matter your family’s makeup, everyone will have a space they enjoy.

Cons of Disney Cruise Line

Price: One of the biggest cons to a Disney Cruise vacation is the price compared to other family-friendly cruise lines. Disney does offer discounts on cruises throughout the year, but they’re not available to every type of guest or sailing date. 

No drink packages: Another con for some people is that Disney Cruise Line does not offer drink packages, so you’ll be paying for each cocktail, specialty drink, beer, wine, or specialty coffee individually. These charges can add up quickly if you aren’t careful, so be sure to put a spending limit on drinks and check your stateroom folio often to be sure you’re staying within your budget. 

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2. Carnival Cruises

Sailing with Carnival Cruises always feels like a fun party. The cruise line is known for its big ships that are filled with big personalities. I always tell people that Carnival is a great starter cruise line to see if you like cruising, or if you want a cruise where the party never stops. 

Pros of Carnival Cruise Line

Price: One of the biggest pros for Carnival Cruise Line is the affordability factor. Carnival is constantly running deals on cruises, so it’s easy to find a discounted sailing . The price for its smaller, older ships is usually cheaper than the bigger, newer ships, but depending on where you want to go and what season, the cost could vary greatly between cruises. To get the best deal, I recommend calling Carnival to book directly because the booking agent can play with discounts and sometimes combine them to give you a better deal than what you can get by booking online.

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Celebrity chef-backed restaurants: Carnival is noteworthy for its celebrity chef-backed restaurants. Kids and adults love the burgers and BBQ that come straight from Guy Fieri’s Flavortown kitchens, and everyone can get a taste of the Big Easy from celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse on Carnival Mardi Gras , Carnival Celebration , and Carnival Jubilee . And don’t forget about everything fried chicken at Big Chicken from Shaquille O’Neal.

Easy loyalty program: Every cruise line has a loyalty program. Carnival’s is called the VIFP Club , and it’s one of the easiest loyalty programs to understand and move up in. After just one cruise you’re enrolled and get members-only offers, and the perks go up from there, including priority check-in and boarding on embarkation day, $25 to use in the casino, and cabin upgrades. 

Cons of Carnival Cruise Line

Older ships feel very dated: Even though Carnival’s newest ships are bright and shiny, its older ships feel very dated. While the brand does put the older ships, like the Carnival Elation from Jacksonville, Florida, through dry dock repairs and upgrades, those upgrades are mostly for cleaning and maintenance and not to make the ships feel newer. 

Food and service can be hit-or-miss: Even though the celebrity chef-backed dining is very good, the rest of the food offerings on Carnival’s ships can be hit-or-miss, even in specialty dining restaurants that cost extra on some cruises. On a recent sailing, I dined in Chibang, which is a mash-up of Mexican and Chinese; the food was just okay and I felt rushed through the entire meal. I was hustled in and out the door for dinner in about 30 minutes. The main dining room can also have a lot of variation where some meal services are perfectly paced and others are rushed or exceptionally slow. 

3. Royal Caribbean

Families looking for another option for a fun cruise that’s not Disney will love Royal Caribbean . In fact, this is my pick for the best cruise for multigenerational travel. 

Pros of Royal Caribbean

Beautiful private island: One of Royal Caribbean’s most exciting offerings is its private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay . The island is home to family beaches, a spacious pool with a swim-up bar, a massive water park, and more. It’s also going to debut a new adults-only area, Hideaway Beach, in early 2024. If you choose to order a drink package it’s valid on the island, and lunch is served at a beachside BBQ so you don’t have to go back to the ship for a meal. 

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Variety of homeports: Royal Caribbean has one of the largest number of home ports around the world. Some of the most exciting home ports outside of the United States include Rome, Italy; Athens, Greece; Dubai, UAE; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Sydney, Australia; Singapore, Singapore; and Shanghai, China. From North America, there are 14 different home ports, including Miami, Florida; Galveston, Texas; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Seward, Alaska.  

Over-the-top amenities on each ship: Royal Caribbean has some of the most over-the-top cruise amenities among the lines I’ve sailed with. Many of these amenities and activities are included in the overall cruise fare, which is even better. Kids and adults can enjoy things like water slides and splash pads, a surf simulator, rock climbing walls, zip lines, ice skating, observation pods, bumper cars, laser tag, and more. 

Cons of Royal Caribbean 

Ships can feel crowded: Royal Caribbean ships are some of the biggest in the world, meaning that the larger ships can feel crowded. On Wonder of the Seas , there are 2,876 staterooms that can accommodate up to 7,084 guests; and on Icon of the Seas, the, 2,805 staterooms can accommodate up to 7,600 people. Even though guests are split between more than a dozen decks, it can still get overcrowded at the pool, the buffet, or in theaters for showtime. 

4. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is ideal for families vacationing with teens or adults looking for a getaway of their own. The newest Norwegian ships are stunning with high-caliber entertainment and fun around every corner.

Pros of Norwegian Cruise Line

Included dining options are great: Norwegian Cruise Line’s included dining options are stellar. After sailing on Norwegian Prima last year, I was blown away at the quality of the main dining room food for breakfast and dinner. At breakfast, I had one of the best iterations of steak and eggs I’ve ever had. I also love Indulge Food Hall, where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served and you can pick from a variety of made-to-order dishes ranging in cuisine style from Indian and Mexican to ramen and salads.

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Glamorous staterooms: The staterooms on Norwegian are simple and refined, with plenty of storage, comfortable beds, and a decent-sized bathroom. I like that Norwegian also offers solo accommodations for those traveling alone. The solo staterooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers, and those guests also have access to the private Studio Lounge. 

Fantastic onboard entertainment: Norwegian pulls out all the stops for onboard entertainment. While sailing on Prima , I was able to see a Broadway-caliber show detailing the life of Donna Summer, head into a lounge with live rock-and-roll music every night, enjoy live bands around the ship, and even take in a few comedy shows. There’s no end to the amount of entertainment onboard, and it often goes into the wee hours of the night. 

Cons of Norwegian Cruise Line

Added activities add up quickly: Unlike other cruise lines where most activities are included, Norwegian’s best activities are an added cost per person, which adds up quickly. Things like go-kart racing, an afternoon in the virtual reality Galaxy Pavilion, and mini-golf are all additional costs once you get onto the ship. 

Boring private island: Norwegian’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay , is one of the most boring private islands I’ve been to on a cruise. While the beach is pretty, there are not a lot of included activities, and getting to the island is a challenge since you have to take a tender boat to and from the ship. However, there are some fun excursions you can book on the island, like swimming with pigs, taking a guided kayaking tour, or renting water sports equipment. 

5. Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise line that caters to the party lifestyle and makes sure everyone always has a good time. 

Pros of Virgin Voyages

Vast entertainment options: No matter which Virgin ship you end up sailing on , there’s going to be a huge variety of entertainment. When I sailed with Virgin, I loved the live music around the ship and the pop-up entertainment that sometimes just happens in the main atrium area. At night, there are a few places to see shows, including drag and acrobatic performances.

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Richard’s Rooftop: Those staying in a suite are welcome to enjoy Richard’s Rooftop, which is a dedicated area on an open deck for suite guests. This area has a hot tub, plenty of cushy loungers, a dedicated bar and bar team, and great views of the ocean passing by. Every day there’s also a Champagne happy hour, where bartenders will continuously walk around filling up your cup until you tell them to stop. 

Cons of Virgin Voyages

Scarlet Night can be hard to get into: One of the hardest things for me to become involved with was Scarlet Night. This is the premier party of Virgin Voyages where every guest dresses in red and is encouraged to explore the ship for pop-up entertainment before heading to the pool deck for an all-night party.

The overall story of Scarlet Night is hard to follow if you don’t get to the right places at the right times on the ship, and I found that the staff didn’t really care to help people who looked lost and did not know what to do during “free exploration” time. I’ve heard that some of the pinch points of Scarlet Night have been worked out since my sailing, so I would say just go with the flow of the night and try to make friends with other guests to venture around the ship together. 

Cabins aren’t maximized for storage: The biggest con for Virgin Voyages is that the standard cabins feel more like an IKEA showroom than a luxury escape on a brand-new ship. The cabins lack enough storage for longer sailings, and the beds are not tall enough to roll suitcases underneath. 

6. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises mainly caters to older adults looking for a more chill vacation with elevated service. 

Pros of Princess

The Sanctuary: One of the best things about Princess Cruises is the Sanctuary, which is an adults-only deck space that you can pay to use for a day or for the entire cruise. The Sanctuary comes with a dedicated team that learns your preferences quickly, from where you like to sit to when you enjoy lunch (which can be brought to you). Besides having a serene oasis, the Sanctuary means you’ll always have a comfortable lounge chair to enjoy. When I was on Caribbean Princess over the summer, I was always greeted with a smile when I walked up the Sanctuary and spent most of the day enjoying the breeze and sunshine.

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Onboard staff is fantastic: Princess crew members are among the most dedicated to guest service I’ve seen. Everyone knows your name by day two of the cruise, knows your preferences for things, and can even give you tips about what you may enjoy around the ship or at some ports of call. 

Cons of Princess

Entertainment feels dated: I wanted to like the entertainment, but most of it felt very dated, especially the shows in the main theater. The musical performances were mostly songs from my grandparent’s era, and the acting was just okay. I did enjoy the nightly 18+ entertainment that was hosted by the entertainment staff, but overall the entertainment offerings were weak relative to other cruise lines.

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 10 Tropical Destinations You Can Visit without a U.S. Passport  
• 50 Family Vacation Ideas for the Best Trip Ever  
• Why a Holland America Heritage Cruise Is Perfect for a Multigenerational Family Vacation

The post I’ve Been on 6 Different Cruise Lines, Here Are the Pros and Cons of Each One appeared first on FamilyVacationist .

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 reimagined 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.

The Disney Cruise Line Blog

An unofficial disney cruise line news, information, weather, and photo blog..

DisneyBand+ Expanding to the Disney Dream Starting November 20, 2023

Today, Disney Cruise Line announced the expansion of DisneyBand+ to the Disney Dream beginning with the November 20, 2023 , a 5-Night Western Caribbean Very MerryTime Cruise from Fort Lauderdale. Eligible guests may place orders between 45 and 11 days prior to sailing.

✨ Exciting news! ✨ DisneyBand+ is now on-sale for guests sailing on the Disney Dream starting 11/20. Enjoy more convenience and magic while onboard your cruise! Learn more: https://t.co/3CN8aKqVan pic.twitter.com/A9G5HKEiWk — Disney Cruise Line (@DisneyCruise) October 18, 2023

The Disney Dream DisneyBand+ rollout expands the offering already available on the Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Magic ( announced , starting October 22nd). Disney says to check back later for information on the availability for sailings on the Disney Wonder.

You can learn more about the DisneyBand+ on Disney Cruise Line’s dedicated page here .

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