Ahoy, Arthur!
A
Magic Band is an all-in-one device that allows access to your hotel room, theme parks, FastPass+ and more at Walt Disney World Resort. You can use your band to charge food and merchandise to your room, and also to link your photos to your My Disney Experience account.
At this time there have been no announcements for Magic Band technology to move to Disney Cruise Line. While Magic Bands are awesome additions to the Walt Disney Resort experience, they will not connect in any way to your cruise. When you board the ship, you'll be issued a Key to the World card that serves basically the same purposes as a Magic Band. (opens your stateroom door, and can be used for onboard purchases.)
The Youth Clubs on the Disney ships are now using wristbands that look just like Magic Bands, as opposed to the chunky security bracelets they used to have. The bracelets are called "Oceaneer Bands" and work like Magic Bands, as the kids will touch the bands to a touch point sensor to check in and out of the club. The bright yellow bands are super cute and are stamped with the DCL logo. If your child gets attached to the band and wants to take it home, the bands are available for purchase and can be charged to your stateroom account. (my daughter couldn't bear to part with hers!)
I've got my fingers crossed that someday soon Magic Bands will make their way to the Disney ships. Until then, I encourage you to keep up with all the latest DCL news by following their websites and social media channels. You can follow them on
Facebook,
Twitter, and on the
DCL page of the Disney Parks Blog.
Thanks for cruising by with your question, Arthur! - Diane W.