Things to do on Disney Cruises

Photos courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Great for families
Special occasion
Party time on board Disney Cruises

Disney Cruises – magical activities for all ages

Very Good

4.5 Stars

Waterparks & Slides

4.5 Stars

Pools & Splash Zones

5 Stars

Sports & Activities

4 Stars

Shows & Movies

5 Stars

Kids’ Clubs & Teens

5 Stars

Wellness, Spa & Fitness

4.5 Stars

Enrichment

3.5 Stars

Adult-only Areas

4.5 Stars

It is hard to imagine a holiday that captures the hearts of children and adults with quite the same flair as a Disney cruise. There is a storybook quality to life at sea, where every detail, from the grand, Broadway-style shows to the quiet, adults-only hideaways, is crafted with signature Disney magic. The experience blends family adventure with moments of genuine peace, creating a journey that feels both thrilling and restorative.

Onboard, the atmosphere is one of constant wonder. Days are filled with imaginative activities and evenings come alive with spectacle, all delivered with a warmth that makes everyone feel at home. It is a world where fireworks light up the ocean sky, beloved characters share breakfast, and every corner holds the promise of a new discovery.

Disney's Pirate Party
Disney’s Pirate Party

Shows and entertainment

Evenings onboard are pure theatre. The Walt Disney Theatre hosts Broadway-quality productions that bring cherished tales to life with stunning costumes, intricate sets, and live orchestras. Shows like Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, and The Little Mermaid are not mere retellings but grand, emotive performances that captivate all ages.

Beyond the theatre, the deck becomes a stage for themed parties and celebrations. Pirate Night, a fleet-wide favourite, culminates in a spectacular fireworks display at sea, a truly magical moment under the stars. Outdoor screens also show classic and contemporary Disney films, allowing families to curl up together for a movie night with the ocean as a backdrop. Live music drifts from the lounges, character greetings pop up unexpectedly, and a sense of enchantment permeates every space.

Beauty and the Beast, just one of many world-class shows
Beauty and the Beast, just one of many world-class shows

Activities and enrichment

Days at sea are brimming with choice, catering to every interest and age group. Guests can learn to draw their favourite characters at an animation workshop, join a cooking demonstration inspired by a Disney film, or uncover hidden clues in a ship-wide scavenger hunt. Family game shows bring a dose of friendly competition, while trivia sessions test knowledge of Disney lore.

For those seeking a more curated experience, there are art tours detailing the ship’s impressive collection of Disney-inspired works. Every activity is thoughtfully designed to be interactive and inclusive, ensuring that families can create memories together. It is this signature Disney polish that elevates each moment from a simple pastime to a cherished part of the holiday.

Meet your favourite Disney characters
Meet your favourite Disney characters

Wellness and fitness

The Senses Spa and Salon is a serene sanctuary reserved for adults. This tranquil escape offers a menu of massages, facials, and body treatments designed to soothe and rejuvenate. With ocean-view treatment rooms and thermal suites complete with steam rooms and saunas, it is a haven of calm.

For those who prefer to stay active, the ships feature a well-equipped fitness centre with state-of-the-art machines and weight training equipment. An outdoor jogging track encircles the upper deck, offering panoramic sea views for a morning run. Group fitness classes, including yoga and Pilates, are also available, providing a perfect opportunity for parents to recharge while the children are happily engaged in their own adventures.

Adults-only areas

Disney masterfully caters to adults, understanding that moments of quiet sophistication are just as important as family fun. Each ship features exclusively adult-only pools, sun decks, cafés, and lounges, all tucked away from the lively family areas. The Quiet Cove Pool is a peaceful oasis where grown-ups can relax in a tranquil setting, complete with comfortable loungers and attentive service.

In the evenings, sophisticated bars and lounges like Palo, an elegant Italian restaurant, and the French-inspired Remy, offer refined dining experiences. Other venues host live music, cocktail hours, and wine-tasting seminars, providing a chic and serene atmosphere for adults to unwind and connect.

Pools and deck spaces

The deck is the heart of a Disney ship, a vibrant hub of energy and excitement. The main family pool area comes alive with character appearances, music, and movie screenings on the giant Funnel Vision screen. Thrilling water slides, such as the AquaDuck water coaster found on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, send guests on a transparent tube journey that extends over the side of the ship.

Younger children have their own dedicated splash zones, thoughtfully themed around characters like Mickey Mouse or the cast of Finding Nemo. Meanwhile, adults can retreat to tranquil whirlpool spas or the peaceful Quiet Cove Pool, ensuring everyone has a place to cool off and enjoy the sun.

Sports and games

For those with a competitive spirit, the ships offer plenty of opportunities for sport and recreation. A dedicated sports deck often features basketball courts and a mini-golf course where families can challenge each other to a game. Table tennis, shuffleboard, and other classic deck games provide lighthearted fun throughout the day. Themed fitness sessions and family trivia contests ensure there is always something to keep everyone active and smiling.

Marvel Avenger Academy
Marvel Avenger Academy

Top tips

  1. Pack a pirate-themed outfit for the celebrated Pirate Night; it is a highlight of the cruise for many.
  2. The Broadway-style shows are very popular, so it is wise to book seats in advance to secure a good view.
  3. Make time to unwind in the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool for a peaceful escape from the family buzz.
  4. Keep a camera ready for surprise character appearances that happen all over the ship.
  5. To avoid the longest queues, try the AquaDuck water coaster early in the morning or during port days.