Ahoy there, Sarah! Welcome to planDisney! I'm so excited that you are embarking on the adventure that is a Disney Cruise Line vacation for the first time! Get ready for a life-changing experience - once you start, you'll realize how hard it will be to come shoreside at the end of your cruise!
You are going to LOVE the Disney Wonder. She's my family's favorite ship, and as one of the "classic" ships, is the perfect size to get you acquainted with everything that's included on a Disney Cruise Line vacation! From the incredible gourmet dining options to Broadway-caliber shows and everything in-between, there's so much to pack into your 4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego. There's no time to waste so let's get to your questions!
As of the last time I spoke with a crew member - which was just today - most cruises have special theme nights that provide opportunities to dress up for a one-of-a-kind family photo or simply celebrate a bit! I'm pleased to report there are theme nights currently scheduled for your 4-Night cruise! While this is subject to change, you can usually count on the following:
- The first night is almost always "cruise casual" as you settle into life aboard the Disney Wonder and get your bearings. It's a nice, low-maintenance way to get acclimated to the ship while at the same time, getting started on your Rotational Dining experience! You'll have a great time meeting your dining crew and starting in one of the incredibly themed Main Dining Rooms. The only rule: no swimwear or tank tops.
- Pirate Night! This is always a big draw on the Disney Ships, and will quickly become a favorite as your travel party makes their change into your crew! As of this writing, deck parties are currently paused, but you'll still get a Pirate-themed menu, fireworks at sea, and a few other potential "Pirate-y surprises."
- One optional dress-up night. While not an official "formal night," this optional night allows Guests who want to dress to impress the chance to feel a bit more luxurious like on the ocean liners of old! If you'd like to partake, I suggest a jacket for men and a dress or pantsuit for women!
- The final night is cruise casual and with any luck, you'll be so relaxed from your first three days that you'll be ready to book your next Disney Cruise while onboard!
Now, these nights are all subject to change, and they may not necessarily happen in that order, but that's where the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app comes in! Once you board, the countdown you've undoubtedly been using turns into your schedule at sea - and will show you everything from the Port Adventures you have booked, to the daily activities around the ship, and can even remind you which main dining room you're eating in that day!
The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app also will have the showtimes listed for each evening - both for the Walt Disney Theatre shows as well as any variety, or live music performances aboard your sailing! It truly is like having a trusty First Mate with you at all times while aboard!
I hope that helps you chart your course as you embark on this incredible journey. Thank you so much for your question, Sarah! If you find any others on your map as you continue planning, please drop me another line here at planDisney!
Fair Winds and Following Seas!
Andrew