Ahoy, Nicole!
I consulted one of my good cruise friends who has a child that is gluten-free and asked her about eating on the Disney Cruise Line ship and also at Castaway Cay. She said it is a breeze!
Prior to sailing, you will want to contact Disney Cruise Line at 800-951-3532 to tell them that someone in your family is gluten-free. When you arrive to your dinner in one of the main dining rooms on the first night of your cruise, the server will inquire about the special dietary needs for your family. They will know all of the menu items that are gluten-free, and may even have a few special things that only appear for your table.
The night before you dock at
Castaway Cay, you can order a special gluten-free meal that you will pick up at one of the restaurants on the island (probably Cookies, Too). The meal will be ready and waiting for you! How easy is that?
Surprising your kids with a Disney Cruise would be awesome! I would recommend planning your vacation with the Walt Disney World portion first, followed by a relaxing cruise on one of the beautiful Disney Cruise Line ships. I also advise that you take at least a 4-Night cruise, since that gives you a full day at sea.
Please visit us again at the Disney Parks Moms Panel as you begin the planning for this great trip! I look forward to answering more of your questions as they arise.
Happy Cruising, Tracy V.