Ahoy, Stephanie! I am so glad you cruised by planDisney with this question to help you navigate the waters of information shared online.
I will start with a confession: I absolutely love using my
DisneyBand+ (a MagicBand+ on the ship) while aboard
Disney Cruise Line. I became a big fan when I first tried it on the Disney Dream in 2023, and my adoration was confirmed last month on the Disney Treasure. All the convenience it affords has even gotten my son to finally trade up his beloved MagicBand for a MagicBand+ to use on cruises.
Generally speaking, you do not have to remove your DisneyBand+ to make purchases on the ships. The Cast Members have scanners that can easily read the information with your band on your wrist. There may be a few situations, however, that do require you to remove your band. One that comes to mind is purchasing alcohol or a specialty beverage while dining. Your dining team will have to take your DisneyBand+ to the computer systems for scanning. This may be the same in bars and lounges. But for the most part, removing your band is more of an exception than the norm.
There are so many additional reasons I will always say "yes" to the DisneyBand+. First, I like having it on my wrist. Essentially, it is always there, without me giving it much thought. I can open the stateroom door, purchase souvenirs and go about living in "Cruise Control" mode without keeping up with a card.
And while you may need to take it off on occasion to settle a bill, you don't have to when you want to jump in the pool, relax in a hot tub or make a splash on the water slide. I used to carry my Key to the World Card in a lanyard and was always taking it off and trying to keep up with mine and my kids'.
Choosing a DisneyBand+ is all about convenience and preference: what works best for you. I feel like it is smooth sailing ahead with it on my wrist and off my mind.
Stephanie, we're always glad to share our experiences and insights at
planDisney. If you have any other questions or concerns, come back. We're all aboard to help!
SEAS the Adventure!
Jana