Ahoy there, Heather, and welcome aboard planDisney!
I'm so glad you sailed my way with this question about your Disney Cruise Line vacation this May! I can tell from your question that you already know that it's a world of laughter from the minute you step aboard any of the amazing
ships of the Disney Cruise Line fleet. From incredible
gourmet dining options and Broadway-caliber shows to the absolute thrill of waterslides and pools, there's something for everyone - even the littlest castaways!
I'm sorry to report, though, that currently it's a world of tears when it comes to the
"it's a small world" nursery!, as it remains closed as of this writing in March of 2022. I'm definitely with you, as a Disney Dad of a little sailor, I'm extra ready for him to be rocked to sleep by the gentle motion of the ship while in the expert care of the Disney Cruise Line youth club crew members. It's a world of hopes, though as it seems every few weeks we get updates to the
Know Before You Go information on the website, so I'd definitely check back frequently!
The prospect of missing out on some of the adult-exclusive activities is both a bummer and a world of fears when it comes to getting the most out of your vacation, but I've got a few planDrew-approved tips in the event the nursery doesn't open in time for your sailing:
- With current guidelines still seating a single travel party per table at dinner in the main dining rooms, you could pack your finest clothes anyway and treat one of your dinners as an adults only meal with a +1! While it may not be the same as Palo or Remy, there's so much that we share when the dining team takes care of the kiddos during the meal! You could class-up your dining experience with a beverage from the drinks menu (and not just alcohol, either!) and splurge a bit on after-dinner drinks or coffees, too!
- There's so much that we share while on a Disney Cruise Line, but one space that's completely yours is your stateroom - which makes it the perfect place to have a "night-in" with some in-room dining! Available 24-hours a day, my family always sets aside time (and appetites) to order room service, and if you time it around naptime, you might just be able to enjoy a few moments of delicious peace and quiet at the same time you enjoy a Mickey Premium Bar! Bonus Tip: We're huge fans of the chicken wings, "All Hands On Deck" platter, and Steak Sandwich, but check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App for what's on the menu during your cruise!
- If you're cruising with other family members - perhaps ones that will take a shift with the little castaways - that's always a way to manufacture a few moments to yourselves, as well!
I hope these tips help you set a course for adventure! Thank you so much for your question, Heather, and I think it's time we're aware that smooth sailing is just over the horizon! If you come up with any others as your vacation rises over the horizon, you know where to find me at planDisney. Just toss another message in a bottle - I'll be sure to be on the lookout for it!
It'll float by...I mean, it's a small world after all, right?
Andrew