Hi there, Lauren! Welcome back to planDisney. I’m so glad you sailed by with another great question. Be Our Guest… for some royal planning tips!
I actually got to experience the
Royal Gathering during my cruise on the Disney Wish last fall, and it was such a sweet memory. For our sailing, we met Cinderella and Belle, but the princess lineup can change depending on the ship and itinerary. It’s truly a magical way for the kids to have some one-on-one moments with their favorite royalty.
When it comes to reservations, you’ll need to include everyone who will be in line, even if they don’t plan to be in the pictures. This is mainly for crowd management so Disney can keep the event running smoothly and make sure every guest gets a chance to meet the princesses. If your kids are under 8, the system will require at least one parent or guardian on the reservation so they have someone to escort them between characters. That means you and your husband will probably still need to be included, but once you’re there, you can let the Cast Members know you’re just there to help and not planning to hop in the photos.
If the Royal Gathering is on your must-do list, make sure to be ready to book right when your window opens, 30 days before your sailing at midnight Eastern, because it fills up fast. You’ll book it just like you do other premium cruise activities in the “My Plans” section of your reservation, either on the website or through your
Disney Cruise Line Navigator App. And don’t worry if you can’t book it right away; sometimes extra slots open up once you’re onboard, so it’s always worth checking with Guest Services.
I hope that clears things up, Lauren! And I can’t wait for you and your crew to enjoy some magical moments with the princesses.
Sea ya real soon,
Eean