Ahoy there, Christian, and welcome aboard planDisney!
I see congratulations are in order! What a joyous occasion to be celebrating on your first Disney Cruise Line vacation! From amazing Broadway-style shows in the Walt Disney Theatre to incredible dining options and everything in between, you've picked an amazing way to celebrate the start of your life together with your partner!
My main tip for first-time cruisers - as backward as it may sound - is to NOT over plan! My favorite thing about Disney Cruise Line vacations is just how RELAXING they can be, and part of that is the fact that so much is included and doesn't require reservations! That said, there are one or two experiences I'd suggest so you don't feel like you missed out:
Palo Brunch - especially if you are foodies - and an Extended Swedish Massage for Couples at
Senses Spa & Salon! These two experiences are romantic, secluded, and relaxing - everything the start of your marriage should be!
Now, as first-time cruisers, when your booking window opens up 75 days before your embarkation date, it may feel like you're digging for treasure and coming up empty. But what's this? Another treasure map? And what's this writing..."There be no treasure here nor there, but TIME may show there's more to spare..."
Obviously, there are no guarantees, but we've typically been able to scrounge up some loot - especially by checking the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app throughout the day. Oh, and definitely check during the week leading up to your cruise! Since reservations must be made or canceled three days prior to embarkation day, sometimes that's when we've seen things open up the most!
If you get to that point and still have no luck, all is not lost! Particularly for Palo Brunch and Port Adventures, be sure to check with a crew member and the app on embarkation day for any additional availability or waitlist options! As far as tastings go, stopping into Keys, Cadillac Lounge or even Cove Cafe can give you the opportunity to check with the beverage crew members about any openings!
If all the treasure chests turn up empty my advice is to create your own adventure! Many menus at the main dining rotations offer flights of specialty beverages - I'll never forget the rum flight I had at Tiana's Place - as well as after-dinner drinks like Ports, Grappa, and more! It's like a tasting at your dinner table! Don't get to try Palo this time? On your next cruise you'll have the added benefit of being a Silver Castaway Club member, with a booking window 90 days prior to embarkation - so don't forget to book a placeholder while aboard!
So while you may not be able to plan everything ahead of time, starting your lives together with some spontaneous activities can be a lot of fun!
Thank you for your question, Christian, and I hope that helps you chart a course for an incredible Honeymoon! I wish you a lifetime of happiness and may this be the first of many Disney Cruise Line vacations for you both!
Fair winds, following seas, and congratulations again!
Andrew