Mom and child as pirates on Castaway Cay; ship in far background
  • Jun 1, 2025
    Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hello. I’m sailing on my very first Disney Cruise (on Fantasy) for my 50th birthday this November. It’s a 4nt itinerary with a stop at 2 private islands. Other than the Pirate themed night, what additional themes or special events should I prepare for? TY

    Ahoy, Matey! Celebrating your birthday aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship sounds practically perfect in every wave!

    My cruise last summer included stops at Disney Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. It was the best combination ever! The island destinations have their own feel, but both have that Disney Cruise Line magic on the shore. Disney makes it so convenient to enjoy these ports, as activities, food and characters abound! 

    You will have a swashbuckling grand time at Pirate Night! This celebration starts with dinner and ends with fireworks at sea—the only cruise line that lights up the ocean sky! On a 4-night itinerary, this is the only themed evening. But, oh my! There's so much magic awaiting you each evening!

    Since this is your first Disney Cruise, you may want to look into rotational dining. The Fantasy has three main dining rooms: Royal Court, Enchanted Garden and Animator's Palate. You will be assigned a dining rotation, a table number, and a dining team. Each night, your restaurant changes, but your dining team moves with you. They get to know you and become part of your cruise experience. You will enjoy all three dining rooms, repeating one of them once for Pirate Night, featuring a Caribbean-inspired menu. 

    The Fantasy is also home to Disney's Aladdin - A Musical Spectacular, among other productions. This show is so much fun! On the night they take the stage, you can see the show before or after dinner, depending on your dining time. 

    Make sure you download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. While at home, it is a helpful planning tool when it's time to book online activities. Once you are on the ship and connected to its Wi-Fi, the app automagically transforms to its onboard functions. You can view dining times and menus, as well as schedules for onboard activities, movies, and entertainment. Select the heart next to something you want to do, and the app will send you reminders when the time approaches. 

    I'd love to share a few other tips to help you celebrate your birthday. On "My Reservations," open "Special Requests" and follow the prompts to let the team know you are celebrating! You can also stop by Guest Services on Deck 3 Midship and ask for a Celebration button.

    If you have any other questions, cruise back by planDisney. We're always happy to help plan magical vacations!

    SEAS the Adventure!
    Jana
thumbnail image for Jana

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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