Welcome aboard, Jade! It is so exciting to plan a Disney vacation, isn't it? With Disney in Orlando, you have so many choices: the Walt Disney World Resort or Disney Cruise Line. Well, those are not the only two choices. I'd like to suggest a third alternative that will give you the best of both worlds: a
land and sea Disney vacation!
My family loves to add a visit to the parks at the Walt Disney World Resort onto our cruise vacations. I suggest visiting the Walt Disney World Resort before you set sail, because you'll have so much fun, but lots of walking, that can wear you out. After that, you have a relaxing, though still just as exciting and fun-filled cruise to look forward to! Depending on how long you plan to stay in Orlando, you may consider spending four days at the parks and then taking a three or four night sailing with Disney Cruise Line. The
Disney Dream offers these shorter sailings which are perfect for combining with a Walt Disney World vacation.
Disney Cruise Line even offers ground transfers for an additional cost, but they are the way to go. A motorcoach picks up guests at their Walt Disney World Resort, then whisks them away in comfort to Port Canaveral. The hour long ride is relaxing for everyone because a Disney Cruise Line video is played, followed by classic Disney cartoons, and before you know it, you're pulling right up to the ship!
No matter what, be sure to get a birthday button onboard the ship or at your resort for your son. Cast Members and Disney characters who see him wearing it will love to make a big deal out of his birthday! Have fun planning, Jade and let me know if you have other questions before the big trip!