We headed straight to Cabana’s buffet. It is not as large as the buffets on some major cruise lines, but the selection was plentiful and we had no trouble finding a table. There were also other casual dining options around the pool area, including unlimited soft serve in four flavours. It is worth bringing a drink bottle, as guests can refill it at the complimentary soft drink machines.
Our stateroom was ready after lunch. At first glance it looked like a typical cruise cabin, but on closer inspection there were lovely Disney touches everywhere, from Mickey details in the lighting to the artwork on the walls. Deluxe rooms feature a split bathroom design, with one room containing the bath or shower and sink, and the other the toilet and a second sink. It was especially useful for a family of four. The room included a queen bed, a sofa bed and, if needed, an additional bed that folds down from the ceiling. There was also space under the queen bed for luggage storage. Our stateroom attendant folded the extra beds down during dinner and packed them away again during the morning service. The TV also offered unlimited Disney movies.
The Disney Cruise Line app was invaluable throughout the voyage. It showed where characters could be found for photos and autographs, and while the queues could be long, they were worth the wait. We saw Marvel characters, Bluey and Bingo, many of the princesses, and favourites such as Pluto, Goofy, Donald Duck, Mickey and Minnie.
The entertainment was equally impressive. It began with the sail-away party featuring characters and the entertainment crew. On our three-day cruise there were also three different hour-long stage shows. The app was also handy for messaging each other on board without buying an internet package, which was priced at US$26 per day, with a small discount for multiple days.
Dining followed Disney’s rotational system across three restaurants, with your serving team moving with you each night. The app advised which restaurant you were in, along with your table number. Triton’s, inspired by The Little Mermaid, featured character appearances and a short dance through the restaurant. Animator’s Palate was a standout, inviting guests to draw a character that was later brought to life as part of the show. Tiana’s Place captured the spirit of 1920s New Orleans, with lively entertainment, a conga line through the restaurant and appearances from Louis the alligator and Tiana. Beyond the fun, the food was excellent. We travelled with two children who have allergies to nuts, milk and eggs, and the crew were extremely careful in catering for them.
Our children, aged nine and 11, were initially hesitant about the kids’ clubs, so we suggested they try them for two hours and report back. They ended up loving them so much they barely wanted to leave for the rest of the cruise. For children aged three to 10, Oceaneer Club offers games, crafts and plenty of supervised fun, with security measures including wristbands and a secret word for pick-up. Our 11-year-old preferred Edge, where she enjoyed games, cards, video games and drawing classes. There is also “it’s a small world” nursery for children from six months to three years, and Vibe for teenagers aged 14 to 17.
One thing I had not known about before sailing was “pixie dusting”. Families hang a bag or stocking outside their door, and other guests leave small gifts inside as a surprise. We were not prepared, but put out a make-up bag and were amazed by how many thoughtful little gifts appeared. After speaking with other guests on board, it was clear that many loved taking part. Some had spent hundreds of dollars on gifts, not because they had to, but because they enjoyed creating a little extra magic for other families. It created a strong sense of community that felt unique to Disney.
There are certainly cheaper cruises on the market, but for guests wanting a holiday filled with fun, nostalgia and unforgettable family memories, Disney Wonder delivers something truly special. Whether travelling with children or simply wanting to reconnect with your inner child, this is a cruise well worth considering.
Travel courtesy of Disney Cruise Line.
