child kissing dad; daughter; grandparents
  • On May 5, 2025
    Vickie from MS Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We’re cruising on the Disney Dream in mid-May (4 nights) with my grandchildren (3y.o. boy, 3 y.o girl, 7, & 8 years old girls). It’s their first cruise. As their grandmother, I’d love a detailed list of everything available to make it special.

    Ahoy, Vickie! It looks like you were perfectly cast in the role of Fairy Grandmother! Your question is so magical. 

    First, let me assure you that you and your grandchildren will have a fantastic time aboard Disney Cruise Line. I was telling a friend yesterday how my son was 5 years old on our first cruise and was in happy tears on the last night, proclaiming, "This was perfect! I loved every single minute!" The Disney Dream will always be his favorite ship. First love! 

    Your cruise includes so much! On our first cruise, we went with the flow. We relied on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app and enjoyed everything we could, including: 

    • Broadway-style shows! The Dream is home to Beauty and the Beast, which is not to be missed. Arrive early to get seats on the main floor. 
    • Character greetings! You can find times to meet Mickey and his pals, princesses and other friends on the app. 
    • Pirate Night! It's a pirate's life for me on this swashbuckling night. Fellow scallywags dress for the occasion and party like a pirate. This night usually includes a special menu on 4-night or longer itineraries, characters in costume, a deck party and fireworks at sea. 
    • Midship Detective Agency! This is a fun game on the ship that takes you on an adventure to solve a mystery with the help of pictures that come to life and give you clues. You can pick up cards to start your game on Deck 5, near the Oceaneer Club, and on Deck 2, near Enchanted Garden. 
    • Vista Café may be a special treat, especially for your older girls. This gem has tasty little treats behind a glass case. The barista-crafted drinks have a fee, but the pastries and desserts are included with your cruise. My niece and I loved stopping by, getting a few bites and sitting on the plush couches or high-top tables to feel very posh. 
    With your cruise so close, you can see if reservations are still available for the Royal Gathering. This is an exclusive opportunity to meet Disney princesses, which requires complimentary tickets. To RSVP for this regal event, log in to the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app and go to “My Plans” and “Cruise Activities.” Select “Book Now” and “Add Activities” for the day you’d like to participate. This event is extremely popular, and booking opens 30 days before your cruise.

    My kids also love it when we can get reservations for the virtual sports simulator near the miniature golf course on the Goofy's Sports Deck on the Disney Dream and Fantasy.  Like the Royal Gathering, you can reserve the virtual simulator with other cruise activities on the app. 
    Once you are connected to the ship's wi-fi, your Navigator app automagically transforms into onboard functionality. You can find everything happening in the app, and you can mark activities with a heart to receive reminders about them.

    Vickie, your cruise will be a dream -- a wish your heart makes. If you have any other questions, please come back to planDisney. We are so happy to share our love for Disney Cruise Line and all the magic that awaits!

    Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo!
    Jana
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Meet the Panelist: Jana, Georgia

Hi, everyone! I’m Jana, a Disney-loving wife and mom from Atlanta. My boys (my husband and sons) are the greatest joys in my life. We have so many magical memories from our vacations at Walt Disney World Resort and aboard Disney Cruise Line. I welcome the chance to share my knowledge and advice in helping you plan your visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth. Learn More About Jana

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