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Family enjoying activities on board; popcorn
  • On Jan 22, 2024
    Adrianne from IL Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    My husband, girls ages 8 and 5, and I are going on a Disney Cruise. What activities and other things should we plan/ pack for?

    Ahoy and welcome to planDisney, Adrianne! I am glad you came by with this question to discover all the treasures aboard Disney Cruise Line. Packing for your cruise is so exciting, and a list is helpful to plan.    

    Here is how I think about my packing list:

    • Pools - Each ship has pools, splash pads and slides to keep you cool. With a cruise in the summer, consider flip-flops as the decks can get toasty in the sunshine. Disney has towels by the pools, so you just need to pack your bathing suits, footwear and sunscreen.
    • Dining - With Disney Cruise Line's rotational dining, you will enjoy dinner in the main dining rooms on your ship, each with a unique theme and menu. You can read information about dress for dinner for an idea of what people wear and the number and types of theme nights, based on the number of nights for your cruise. There are fine and casual dining options for breakfast, lunch, snacks, second dinner... If you tend to get cold in restaurants, I would suggest a light cardigan or jacket.
    • Onboard Fun - I pick cruises based on itineraries and destinations, but I could stay on the ship the whole cruise and be happy. There is so much to do. You can search Onboard Activities by ship, ages and activity level. Movie theaters, clubs for kids, tweens and teens, shows, learning to fold towels into animals, drawing your favorite Disney characters, and so much more. Your girls may enjoy dressing up to meet their favorite Disney princesses, joining them for Royal Court Royal Tea, or being treated like one at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.  
    • Port Adventures - Each destination has a variety of Port Adventures, from days relaxing by the ocean to nature hikes to culinary expeditions. When you select a Port Adventure, the details in the description should advise you on any special clothing needs, like waterproof shoes to climb Dunn's River Falls in Jamaica. 
    • Theme Nights - Most cruises have a themed night like Pirate Night with a deck party, fireworks, and many of your shipmates dressed up to the theme. 
    • Travel Documents - Although not as fun as cute outfits, your travel documents are required for you to board the ship. I have this at the bottom here, but it should be the first item on your packing list. 
    On Embarkation Day, you will give your luggage to baggage handlers, and your bags will be delivered to your stateroom later in the afternoon/early evening. Plan for a carry-on bag for the first day on the ship, like bathing suits, medication and your travel documents. 

    Please come back to planDisney with any other questions. We are here to help!

    Happy Cruising!
    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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