Well ahoy there Denise, I'd like to wish you a very royal welcome aboard planDisney!
As the resident planDisney explorer and longtime sailor myself, I'm absolutely delighted to answer this question for you as I've attended my share of such
gatherings and Character Experiences on board over the years. Having sailed on the
Disney Wish earlier this year and looking forward to another voyage next month, I can definitely bestow upon you some Princely knowledge about how you can meet and greet some of the fiercest females and greatest heroines on the high seas on your upcoming cruise:
- You'll be happy to hear that the Royal Gathering does indeed take place in the Grand Hall of the Disney Wish, and requires a booking similar to the other ships in the fleet. On my 3-Night Bahamian Cruise this took place on both Port Day mornings: in Nassau and when the ship was docked at Disney Castaway Cay. (On longer sailings, this may be subject to change and can take place on a Sea Day.)
- Most recently, the Royal Gathering on board the Disney Wish included appearances by visiting royalty such as Tiana, Rapunzel, Belle, Cinderella and Moana - the greatest chief and navigator out on the open seas! There's no guarantee as to who will be making their appearance at your Royal Gathering, but based on my personal observations and conversations between royals these tend to be fairly consistent visits!
- You'll be able to find this using your Disney Cruise Line Navigator App under sections currently listed as "Cruise Activities" or "Onboard Fun"; when you come across the Royal Gathering it should provide you with additional information along with the date when you can begin booking this experience for no additional charge!
Speaking of the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App, it currently includes a number of features including an Onboard Chat function that you can use to communicate with family and friends on board. While there previously existed a function that allowed guests to communicate directly with the crew (it's important to remember that the folks who live and work at sea are called Crew Members or Officers and not Cast Members while you're on board), this is no longer available and you'll have to speak directly with the Guest Services Desk on board whether via your Stateroom phone or by visiting them on Deck 4, Midship. If however you're looking to speak to someone working on land prior to your voyage, you can call or email shoreside Cast Members directly via their contact information on the Disney Cruise Line website.
Another option you might be interested in is Olaf's Royal Picnic, in case your young seafarers are fans of the stories of Arendelle and the royal sisters Elsa and Anna! Unlike the Royal Gathering this experience is bookable for an additional fee, but it may be something to look into if you have any Frozen fans in tow! In the meantime, be sure to come back again to planDisney for any more tips or advice ahead of your upcoming adventures at sea!
Be sure to say hi to all the Princess pals for me!
Prince