Welcome aboard, John!
The 12-night voyage from Barcelona is an awesome itinerary that will surely be enjoyed by your whole family... on and off the ship. I think traveling across
Europe is best while on the Disney Cruise. It's definitely a great combination of Family adventure and entertainment. After an exciting adventure out at the different ports during the day, you come 'home' to high quality accommodations and impeccable service that you can only experience through Disney.
The great thing about the Disney Cruise, is that your young cruisers can opt to stay onboard and be left on the ship, while you enjoy a Port Adventure on your own. It' is indeed possible for Parents to have
Date Night and even Port Dates every single day and evening while sailing on the Disney Cruise. I'm sure you'd miss the little ones though :-). Sometimes, I wonder if my kids miss us, whenever we leave them for the day at the Youth Clubs. They really do enjoy spending their days and evenings with the Youth Counselors, and there are constantly new & exciting activities at the Youth Clubs each day.
You and your family are in for an unforgettable magical voyage! Please do let us know if we can help answer any of your other planning questions.
Bon voyage!
~ Dolly