Family Walking the Beach/further away shot/Mom and Dad looking at daughter
  • On Feb 11, 2025
    Cristina from FL Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi! I live in Miami and am in between the Disney wish for 1/2-5/2026 or 7/3-6/2026. Do you have any insight? Would the January dates be too cold? The ocean temps?

    Ahoy, Cristina!

    Welcome aboard planDisney! I love that you’re deciding between two magical Disney Wish sailings—either way, you’re in for an Enchanted experience! If you’re anything like me, you’ll end up booking both because choosing just one is the real challenge.

    Since both of your chosen itineraries stop at Nassau and Castaway Cay, the real decision comes down to timing. So let’s break it down like Captain Jack Sparrow plotting a course for adventure!

    January 2–5, 2026:
    My crew and I just sailed on the Fantasy in January, so I can give you a firsthand account of the winter sailing experience. Living in Florida, I know you’ll understand when I say the water felt chilly—definitely brisker than our October and November cruises! That said, we still had a blast playing in the waves at Lookout Cay, and my kids didn’t seem to mind the cooler temps at all. Since you’re from Florida, you will feel the difference, but those used to winter up north might find the water downright refreshing! The air temperatures are usually comfortable in January (except for this past January!)—not too hot, not too cold—but a sea breeze can make mornings and evenings feel a little cooler. Since this sailing is right at the tail end of winter break, the crowds might be slightly lower than the peak holiday weeks, but you can still expect plenty of families onboard.

    July 3–6, 2026:
    Summer at sea? Sign me up! Ocean temperatures in July are perfect for swimming, and you won’t have to worry about chilly water like in January. However, as you already know, the trade-off is that the Florida sun can be intense. Be sure to pack extra sunscreen and take breaks in the shade when needed. Since this cruise falls over Independence Day, you can expect a festive atmosphere with lots of families celebrating summer vacation. While Disney hasn’t released the entertainment schedule yet, the Wish typically has fireworks at sea during Pirate Night, so what better way to celebrate the 4th of July than fireworks over the open ocean? That sounds like a star-spangled way to celebrate!

    At the end of the day (or the end of the plank), it really depends on what type of experience you’re looking for—a cooler, potentially less crowded January getaway or a warm, festive July sailing with perfect swimming weather. No matter which one you choose, you’ll be sailing on a ship bursting with Disney magic, incredible dining, spectacular entertainment, and plenty of pixie dust to go around.

    Hope this helps you chart your course! If you need anything else, I’m always happy to lend a hook—err, hand!

    Sea ya real soon with love in the air and magic everywhere,
    Dustin
thumbnail image for Dustin

Meet the Panelist: Dustin, Florida

Ahoy, me hearties! I’m Dustin—a husband, father of two, and active-duty service member living in sunny Florida. My crew and I “just keep swimming” toward our next Disney Cruise Line adventure! From “a whole new world” of ports to “hakuna matata” vibes on deck, we live for the magic at sea. Ready to see what’s “beyond the reef”? Allow me to be your guide as we sail toward your perfect Disney Cruise adventure! Learn More About Dustin

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