Ahoy Susan!
Thanks for sailing over to planDisney with this question. We're all hands on deck and always ready to assist.
A Disney Cruise Line vacation is a wonderful way to soak up that coveted pixie dust while also soaking up some sunshine and vitamin "sea." I'm a mom of two and though our family loves our pool days, Character encounters, and themed rotational dining, my husband and I have found plenty of ways to have kid-free fun on board.
I'm not sure which ship you're considering, but you'll discover adult-only areas on each of
Disney Cruise Line's beautiful ships. I've spent my fair share of time sipping on bubbles in
Pink: Wine and Champagne Bar on Disney Dream, enjoying a nightcap at
Skyline on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, and relaxing at
Nightingale's on Disney Wish.
But adult adventures aren't limited to just
nightclubs and lounges. We've swam and sunbathed at the
Quiet Cove Pool (a delightfully peaceful and child-free area), relaxed with a massage at
Senses Spa & Salon, and even enjoyed some out-of-this-world dining at Remy and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement. When we aren't opting for an
upgraded adult-only dining experience we typically request the second seating for rotational dining. This gives us a little extra time to get cleaned up on port days and we get a more relaxed dining experience as Crew Members aren't rushing to get all those hungry toddlers fed before the witching hour. We can also linger a bit longer over drinks and dessert since they don't need to turn over the space for another set of cruisers immediately after our meal.
Yes, there will be children all over the ships just like at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, but it didn't spoil the fun or relaxation for us. My kids are older now, but we enjoyed seeing the little princesses all dressed up in their bibbidi bobbidi best and the littlest pirates meet their favorite Disney pals. The nightly stage shows are fun for all ages (I've been blown away by more than one production) and activities are offered each day to suit many varying interests. You'll find these detailed in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App. I like marking my favorites so I get a reminder when it's time to line up to meet my favorite characters or join a game of trivia.
If you aren't tied to a set travel window, you may find less crowded sailings (many of which are also priced lower) while school is in session. Sneak away while families are in the thick of homework, sports, and school plays and you might snag a great deal and more seating around the pool deck, too. If you happen to choose a sailing that stops at Disney Castaway Cay or
Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, you'll also enjoy Serenity Bay, a secluded adult-only beach with its own dining area.
I hope this gives you an idea of the fun you can expect onboard. If you need more encouragement or have additional questions please don't hesitate to come back and ask. Wishing you a most magical sailing!
Bon voyage,
Amy