Illuminations
  • On Apr 27, 2023
    Laura from NY 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 have 10 guests and a four month old for a specialty cruise. We were told that was fine by 3 different cast members on the phone but we were out on hold a million times for them to ask and just made me uneasy. Is that ok or do we have to get another boat

    Welcome, Laura!

    Your Walt Disney World Resort vacation is just around the river bend, and I’m so glad you came to us with this important question. Thank you for trusting our advice; while Disney Cast Members on site at the marina will have the final call on this policy, I’m happy to share my experience and the documented details on these specialty cruises for your party.

    A specialty cruise is part of the Enchanting Extras Collection and is a private cruise on a smooth-sailing pontoon boat for up to 10 Guests. These evening trips go around the Seven Seas Lagoon or near World Showcase Lagoon to view nighttime spectaculars Happily Ever After or EPCOT Forever. I confirmed that the fine print of this experience states that “up to 10 Guests” includes infants in the total count. While I know it’s not the news you wanted to hear, typically these limitations are for the U.S. Coast Guard regulations on the vessel more than the physical space needed for the individuals on board.

    I suggest you make a reservation for a second boat at the same time, and then verify with the marina crew on site when you arrive at the Walt Disney World Resort for your vacation. Please note that the cancellation policy for this special experience is two days, so I advise you to stop by the exact resort you made the sailing reservation from and speak with the marina crew about your situation prior to that date. If they allow the infant to be counted on your one vessel, you can then cancel without penalty. I’d hate for you to arrive that evening for a very special event and be turned away due to the policy or not have another boat available at the last minute. If you’re not staying at the resort where your cruise will leave from, a rideshare service is the quickest way to navigate between resorts for a stop by the marina. Or, perhaps it will coincide with a theme park day, and you can visit the nearby resort as long as it’s two days prior to your sail date. If you do have two vessels for your party that evening, they can sail close and even tie up together for the fireworks portion so you will feel like you’re one party.

    These cruises are so much fun, Laura! Balloons and celebration banners are included in the cost, so be sure to request them if you’re celebrating anything on this trip. Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are provided, but you may also bring your own alcohol on board. I enjoyed this cruise with some of my girlfriends last year and we had the best time! Our captain was incredibly knowledgeable and kind, which made for such a magical evening together. If you have a MagicBand+, be sure to wear it for engaging interactions during the show. 

    Your group is going to have such a special time together on this vacation! Please let me know what other questions you have to make the most of it, or how to navigate plans among the large party. We’re here to help!  

    Wishing you a practically perfect vacation,  
    Amy
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Meet the Panelist: Amy, Virginia

Hi friends! I'm Amy, a lifelong Disney dreamer from horse-and-wine country, Virginia. My family of three is BIG on fun and treasures every adventure together. We've been making memories at the Walt Disney World Resort and aboard Disney Cruise Line since my son was a toddler; we love our family traditions balanced with "what's new" each visit. I have a passion for Disney details, a love of digital tools, and an eye for practical planning. I can't wait to help you make the MOST of your magical vacation! Learn More About Amy

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