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  • On Feb 15, 2016
    Jeff from MI Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    My husband and I are looking to either go on a Disney Cruise or stay at Walt Disney World - FLA with our two small children (ages 1 and 3). What would be the better option for us with such small children and why?

    Ahoy, Jeff!
    Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! I'm excited to hear you are considering a Disney vacation for your family in the near future. My family loves vacationing at WDW and onboard Disney Cruise Line, so this is definitely a tough question for me to answer. But, I have cruised and visited WDW when my children were around the same ages as your two, so hopefully I can provide you with some helpful information. Walt Disney World will be a bit more action packed than a cruise when you consider visiting all four parks, character interactions, dining, shows, parades and the transportation that it requires to move around. You will want to schedule lots of breaks especially if you are up early each day. My kids still like to come back to the resort and rest. I think pricing between the two is similar, but the time of year and length of your vacation will play a factor. Rates are higher during the summer, spring break and during holiday times. If you are flexible with your dates, you can save money by cruising or visiting WDW during non-peak times. Onboard a Disney Cruise, you will find your days a bit more relaxed and will enjoy the phenomenal customer service provided. The pricing includes most of your food (adult dining and some snacks not included), activities, entertainment, youth programming (for your three year old if potty trained), and a new beautiful destination each day! Disney Cruise Line does offer a nursery for the younger sailors for a nominal hourly fee. You and your husband can enjoy the adult-only offerings onboard if your children spend time in the youth club and/or nursery. One thing to note is non-potty trained Guests are not allowed in the pools onboard. There are splash areas for those cruisers still in swim diapers. This is not the policy at the pools at the WDW Resort. 
    A magical Disney experience can also include both. You can split your vacation with a few days on land followed by a three or four-night cruise!
    Good luck with your decision!
    Nancy
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Meet the Panelist: Nancy, Georgia

Ahoy there!I'm excited to help you plan a magical voyage filled with pixie dust onboard one of the magnificent Disney cruise ships. As a mom of two,I love planning a Disney cruise and can't wait for you to experience all that DCL has to offer. Learn More About Nancy

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