Overview shot of ship and sea; Castaway Cay
  • On Feb 25, 2024
    Kimberly from KY Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    1st time DisneyWish, 4 nites.Going w/daughter age21.Tips on-boarding, type of carryon to take, where to eat when not in main dining room, how to max experience on cruise, what to do at castaway cay, departure day, things to not miss doing or places to eat?

    Ahoy, Kimberly! Woo hoo! A Disney Cruise with your daughter is something to celebrate! I’m happy to help you maximize your time on board so you can create magical memories together.

    You selected a Port Arrival Time when you completed the online check-in for your cruise. This is the designated time you should arrive at the terminal. Cast Members will check your Port Arrival Form before you’re allowed to enter security and complete the check-in process. You will want to keep your citizenship documents handy in your purse or carry-on bag. Your bags need to be small enough to fit through the security scanner. Disney recommends no larger than 22 inches high, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches deep. I have a small wheeled bag perfect for holding our essential first-day items. Staterooms are typically ready after 1:30 p.m. Keep this in mind when you’re packing. 

    When you reach the terminal and are waiting for your boarding group number to be called, open the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app and click “On Board or at the Port.” The app transforms and becomes your guide to all the activities happening aboard the Disney Wish. If you see something you don’t want to miss, tap the heart icon next to the listing to favorite the activity. The app will send a reminder about fifteen minutes before it's time to report.

    My favorite lunch spot is Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods on Deck 11. Personally, I adore Mickey’s Smokestack Barbecue, especially the pulled pork and macaroni and cheese. If you're craving tacos, my husband recommends Donald’s Cantina. Marceline Market is also located nearby and features an expansive buffet. With a variety of options, there's something for everyone!

    When at Disney Castaway Cay, hop aboard the tram to Serenity Bay, the adult-exclusive beach. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful and stress-free day in paradise. Indulge in a delicious beachfront lunch, and treat yourself to a Konk Kooler, the island's signature drink, from the nearby bar. If you want to flip your fins in the snorkeling lagoon, hop back on the tram and stop at the family beach.

    On the day of departure, they try to have everyone off the ship by 9:00 a.m. This still leaves plenty of time to enjoy your “See Ya Real Soon” breakfast. You will be called by group to disembark, based on your character luggage tags left in your stateroom towards the end of the cruise. I know you’re going to fall in love with cruising. For a small deposit, you can make a placeholder reservation for a future Disney Cruise. It’s a great way to save money on your next sailing and continue making priceless memories at sea. You’ll find the details on the app. 

    Kimberly, the best memories often happen in the spur of the moment. Embrace the spontaneity of your Disney Cruise and enjoy every enchanting moment with your daughter!

    SEAS the adventure!
    Tracie
thumbnail image for Tracie

Meet the Panelist: Tracie, Florida

Ahoy! Just like Moana, I feel the irresistible call of the sea. I think the best vacation is aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship – thankfully, my family agrees. Whether savoring gelato in Italy, snorkeling in Mexico, or basking in the sea breeze on deck, each destination fills us with memories to last a lifetime. I look forward to helping your family plan a Disney Cruise Line adventure brimming with cherished moments!

Learn More About Tracie

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