Should You Try a Disney Cruise? My Honest Take
If you’ve ever thought about taking a Disney Cruise, you’ve probably asked yourself: is it really worth it? That was the question I wrestled with before our first sailing. As a travel planner and a mom of two little ones, I’d heard rave reviews about how magical the experience could be—characters on board, Broadway-style shows, fireworks at sea—but also plenty of whispers about the price tag.
And here’s the truth: Disney Cruises are absolutely magical… but they’re not for everyone.
Why Disney Cruises Can Be Tricky for First-Timers
The biggest thing I always tell clients is this: a Disney Cruise should not be your very first cruise experience. Cruises in general are a very specific kind of vacation. You either love them or you don’t. I’ve never met someone who was truly indifferent about cruising.
If you try a Disney Cruise as your first ever sailing and end up hating the whole “at sea” lifestyle—structured meals, scheduled activities, the feeling of being on a ship—it won’t matter how much you love Disney. You’ll be disappointed, and your wallet will be too. Disney is one of the most expensive cruise lines on the water, and it’s not the way to test whether cruising is for you.
A Smarter First Step
My best advice: before you book Disney, test the waters with a shorter, less expensive cruise. Lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, or Princess are fantastic for this. You can book a 3- or 4-night sailing, get a taste of ship life, and see how it fits your travel style. If you walk away seasick and cranky, you’ll know Disney Cruises aren’t for you—no harm, no foul.
On the other hand, if you step off the ship already daydreaming about your next voyage, then Disney might be the perfect splurge. That’s when the premium price starts to make sense, because you’re paying for a level of service, entertainment, and theming that’s truly unmatched.
Who Should Try a Disney Cruise?
Here’s when I think a Disney Cruise is absolutely worth it:
Diehard Disney fans who want the magic to extend beyond the parks. The theming is everywhere, from deck parties with Mickey to surprise character greetings in the halls.
Families with young kids who may not be ready for the chaos of a theme park. The kids’ clubs alone are incredible—safe, fun, and run by Disney-trained staff.
Cruise lovers looking for a special experience. If you already know you enjoy being at sea, Disney adds a whole new layer of magic.
My Takeaway
A Disney Cruise can be an unforgettable experience—but only if you’re already someone who enjoys cruising in general. Think of it as a “smart splurge” for the right traveler. Try a shorter, more affordable sailing first, and then decide if you’re ready to invest in the Disney version of the magic.
Ready to start planning your test run—or your big Disney adventure? That’s where I can help. At Tomato Town Travel, I’ll help you find the right sailing (and the best deals) so you can decide if cruising is your family’s perfect vacation style.
