Thoughts from My First Disney Cruise

​I had the opportunity to sail on the Disney Wonder out of Galveston this fall. It was my first Disney Cruise and I absolutely loved every minute of it!

Thinking of trying a Disney Cruise vacation? There are so many things about Disney Cruises that really set them apart from other cruise lines. Here are just a few reasons Disney Cruise Line tops my list for great family vacations! 

1. The Kids Clubs. The kids clubs are one of a kind! Each age group has a club filled with entertainment planned just for them, and the rooms reflect it. Each club includes several smaller rooms to appeal to the kid’s various interests, including things like a playground themed like Andy’s Room from Toy Story, and Marvel Superhero Academy. It isn't Disney without the amazing Cast Members -- The club counselors were fantastic! They will keep your kids busy with games, craft projects, story times, wacky competitions, and of course a little Disney magic.
2. Unique Adult Opportunities. There are unique opportunities for the adults, too! On my last cruise we signed up for the Chocolate and Liquor tasting which turned out to be an afternoon of trying yummy chocolates, champagnes, and liquors while hearing about each one from Disney’s extremely knowledgeable sommelier.  There were mixology classes, wine tasting, spa treatments, cooking demonstrations, bingo, trivia games, and so much more! In addition to all you can opt to do, you can always choose to relax. Whether its laying by the pools, or spending time in the Rainforest Room at the spa, or just finding your own special spot to hang out with a good book. The Rainforest was awesome and well worth the minimal cost.
   
3. Gourmet Dining. The food is delicious. No matter where you’re eating on board, you’ll have a hard time deciding between all the yummy options available. There are both sit down and quick-service options available at all meal times, as well as room service- all included with your cruise fare. You definitely won’t want to miss dinner in the dining rooms! My favorite is Tiana’s Place on the Disney Wonder. Themed after The Princess and the Frog with a New Orleans feel, you’ll step right into Mardi Gras with the live band, parade and cajun-inspired menu!
4.  Entertainment. Make sure to check out all of the Broadway-Style Shows available in the evening. I was lucky enough to be there for the world premiere of Frozen on the Disney Wonder, and it was incredible! In addition to the live shows, you can check out a few current movies playing, and the special events like the Adventure’s Away Sail Away Party, or Pirates in the Caribbean. Your Disney Cruise Line Navigator will keep you updated on all the goings on around the ship each day!
   
5. Top-Notch Service. The piece that really set Disney apart for me was the level of service provided to each and every guest. From your stateroom host or hostess, to your server at dinner, and every cast member you meet, you’ll be treated to amazing service. No matter what you are looking for, the staff on board will work to meet your requests and exceed your expectations with a welcoming spirit and smile.

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If you have not yet experienced the Disney Cruise Line difference I encourage you to look at booking a cruise. I started out with a shorter 4-night sailing to get my feet wet and cannot wait for my return to the Disney Wonder in Alaska this summer for a 9-night getaway! I was instantly hooked and I know you and your family will be too. 

Contact your Whitney World Travel Advisor today to explore that various Disney Cruise itineraries available. We would love to help answer any questions you may have. Bon Voyage!

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About the Author

Jenny Sandlin, Travel Advisor
Growing up, Jenny traveled frequently and always enjoyed helping plan every aspect of her family's vacations.  As an adult, she has enjoyed finding new adventures, as well as revisiting some of her favorite destinations-- San Francisco, Maui, Paris, Colorado and New York City. She absolutely loves enjoying new travel experiences with her husband and children. A personal family favorite for the the Sandlin family is Disney Destinations, a focus of her travel business. Jenny is a graduate of Bellarmine University and currently lives in The Woodlands, TX.