A Disney Cruise isn’t your typical vacation—it’s a magical experience you will never forget.
From the moment you step onboard, everything feels special, whether it’s watching a Broadway-style show, spotting your favorite characters in the atrium, or spending a sun-soaked day at Castaway Cay. Disney has a way of adding those little touches that make every moment feel unforgettable.
But even the most magical trips come with a learning curve.
First-time cruisers often don’t know the things that will make their experience extra special and enable them to plan seamlessly.
That’s where this guide comes in.
We’ve gathered the 20 most valuable insider tips from our own personal, and many other experienced seasoned Disney cruisers to help you save money, relax more, and unlock every ounce of magic onboard.
1. Download the Navigator App Before You Sail
The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app is your lifeline on the ship. It shows everything happening by the hour—character appearances, trivia, tastings, Broadway shows, and more. You can even message family members onboard without paying for Wi-Fi.
Magic Moment: The app lets you “favorite” activities, and it will send you a reminder 15 minutes before they start. This is a lifesaver for things like character meet-and-greets.
2. Buy the Popcorn Bucket on Night One
Popcorn at shows isn’t free, unless you are sailing Concierge, but buying the refillable bucket makes it affordable. Refills cost just a couple of dollars and can be used in the Walt Disney Theatre, Buena Vista Theatre, or even filled with cookies and snacks from the buffet.
Money-Saver Tip: Bring your Disney Parks popcorn bucket from home—most cast members will happily refill it onboard.
3. Room Service is Free (Yes, Even Mickey Bars)
Room service is one of the most underrated Disney Cruise perks. You can order most items for free—just remember to tip in cash.
Magic Moment: Ask for Mickey Ice Cream Bars. They’re not on the menu, but they’ll deliver them any time of day or night. Or milk and cookies – many families make this a nightly tradition before bed.
Pro Tip: Use the breakfast door hanger card. Fill it out the night before, hang it on your door, and wake up to coffee, fruit, and pastries delivered exactly when you want them.
Disney Cruise Room Service Guide
4. Specialty Desserts Can Join You at Dinner
Want to surprise your kids with a cupcake or celebrate a birthday? Buy a treat from the sweet shop and ask your dining team to serve it at dinner.
Magic Moment: Some families pre-order a custom cake before their cruise—it can be delivered to your dining table or stateroom for a truly special memory.
5. Book a Placeholder for Future Savings
If there’s even a chance you’ll cruise again, buy a placeholder reservation onboard. For $250 you’ll lock in 10% off your next sailing, plus a lower deposit. You’ll have up to two years to use it—and it’s refundable if you change your mind.
Money-Saver Tip: You can apply a placeholder to almost any sailing, including special itineraries. It’s one of the easiest ways to save hundreds of dollars.
How to Save Money with a Disney Cruise Placeholder
6. Your Stateroom Host Does More Than You Think
One of the things that makes a Disney Cruise feel so special is the service, and your Stateroom Host is a big part of that magic. They don’t just keep your cabin clean—they add thoughtful touches that make your voyage more comfortable.
Magic Moment: Every evening you’ll come back to a turned-down bed, a fun towel animal, and chocolates waiting for you. It’s a little surprise that kids (and adults!) look forward to each night.
Pro Tip: Need extra hangers, a blanket, or even a mattress topper? Just ask! Your stateroom host is happy to help make your room feel just right.
7 Surprising Perks Your Cabin Steward Brings to Your Voyage
7. Don’t Stress About Doing It All
Between trivia, deck parties, tastings, and character meets, you’ll never fit everything in. And that’s okay.
Magic Moment: One cruiser shared that their favorite memory wasn’t the shows or excursions—it was watching a sunset on deck with their child, eating soft-serve ice cream.
8. Order Two Entrées (or More)
Can’t decide between steak and salmon? Order both! Disney’s servers encourage it—and sometimes they’ll bring extras before you even ask.
Pro Tip: If you want to order from the Kids Menus, go ahead! And kids can order from the adult menu too.
9. Unlock the Secrets of Disney Cruise Onboard Credit
Onboard credit (OBC) is like free money you can spend during your cruise—on excursions, souvenirs, spa treatments, or even specialty dining. The best part? It is so easy to get it!
? Money-Saver Tip: You can earn onboard credit by booking through the experts at The Vacationeer.
Pro Tip: Plan ahead how you’ll use your credit. Many guests apply it to port adventures or Palo dining, but it’s also handy for covering gratuities.
Disney Cruise Onboard Credit Secrets: How to Get It, Where to Find It, and What to Spend It On
10. How to Save Money on Drinks
Most soft drinks, coffee, and tea are free on a Disney Cruise, but alcohol and specialty beverages can add up quickly. Luckily, there are smart ways to keep costs down.
Money-Saver Tip: Take advantage of the beer mug deal—buy the refillable mug once, and you’ll get a larger pour for the price of a regular beer throughout the cruise.
Pro Tip: You’re allowed to bring limited amounts of your own wine or beer onboard. Pack it in your carry-on, not your checked luggage, and enjoy it in your stateroom or at dinner (a corkage fee will apply if you take the bottle to dinner).
Magic Moment: Coffee lovers should check out the coffee card—buy five specialty coffees and get the sixth free. It’s a nice perk for latte fans!
How to Save on Drinks on a Disney Cruise: Beer, Wine, Cocktails, and Coffee
11. Master Disney Cruise Online Check-In
Online check-in is one of the most important steps before your cruise. It’s where you upload documents, select a Port Arrival Time, and sign up for certain activities. Timing matters—especially if you want early boarding or popular experiences.
Pro Tip: Check-in opens at midnight (Eastern Time) on your booking date. Be ready right when it opens to grab the best port arrival times and activity slots.
Magic Moment: Getting an early port arrival time means you’ll be among the first onboard—giving you extra time to explore, swim, or enjoy your first meal before the ship gets busy.
Disney Cruise Online Check-In Explained: Timing, Tips, and Insider Hacks
12. First Day Tips to Start Your Cruise Right
Embarkation day sets the tone for your whole vacation. From boarding early to exploring the ship, a little planning makes your first day smooth and stress-free.
Pro Tip: Pack a small day bag with swimsuits, sunscreen, and medications. Your checked luggage may not arrive until later in the afternoon.
Magic Moment: Many families head straight to the pool after boarding—it feels like you have the ship to yourself while others are still exploring.
Money-Saver Tip: Skip the crowded buffet and head to one of the main dining rooms serving lunch on embarkation day. The food is included, and the atmosphere is much calmer.
13. Make the Most of Castaway Cay
Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, is often the highlight of your cruise. From snorkeling to bike rides, or just relaxing on the beach, there’s so much to do—but a few insider tricks will make your day even more magical.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget that there is an adults only beach, Serenity Bay for over 18’s only as well as the Family Beach.
Money-Saver Tip: Bring your own snorkel gear instead of renting. You’ll save money and be ready to explore right away.
Magic Moment: Don’t miss the island’s character meet-and-greets—Mickey, Minnie, and friends often appear in their tropical outfits for unique photos.
Disney Castaway Cay: 40 Essential Tips for a Magical Day
14. Know Your Options for the Disney Cruise Shuttle
If you’re sailing out of Port Canaveral, Disney offers a convenient ground transfer service from Orlando International Airport, Walt Disney World resorts and the Hyatt Regency Orlando.
It’s not always the cheapest option if there are more than 2 of you, but it takes the stress out of getting to the port. It will give you a Boarding Group, usually between 3 and 6, that will get you on the ship that little bit earlier.
Pro Tip: Disney Cruise Line shuttles must be reserved in advance either on the App or by calling DCL.
Money-Saver Tip: If you’re traveling with a large family or group, compare shuttle costs with private transfers or rideshares—sometimes they’re more economical.
Magic Moment: The shuttle ride itself feels like the start of the vacation—Disney videos play onboard, and excitement builds as you approach the ship.
Booking the Disney Cruise Shuttle to Port Canaveral: Everything You Need to Know
15. Pack Like a Pro
Veteran cruisers swear by a few must-haves: magnetic hooks, portable chargers, reusable water bottles, autograph items, and snorkel gear.
Pro Tip: Pack a small day bag for embarkation day with swimsuits, sunscreen, and flip-flops. Your luggage may not arrive until later.
16. Arrive the Day Before
Never risk flying in the morning of your cruise. Delays happen, and the ship won’t wait.
Magic Moment: Many families turn this into part of the adventure—staying at a Disney World resort or a beach hotel near Port Canaveral.
Best Hotels Near Port Canaveral
17. Don’t Skip the Broadway-Style Shows
Even if you’re not “a show family,” give them a try. Productions like Frozen or Tangled are Broadway quality.
Pro Tip: On longer itineraries, check for variety acts too—magicians, comedians, and guest performers often appear between the Disney productions.
18. Decide If the Disney Cruise Photo Package Is Worth It
Disney photographers are everywhere onboard and at Castaway Cay, capturing magical moments you might miss. The photo package can be pricey, but for many families, it’s worth the investment.
Pro Tip: Buy the package before your cruise to save money—Disney offers a discount for pre-purchases.
Money-Saver Tip: If you don’t want the full package, you can purchase individual photos or smaller bundles instead of the unlimited option.
Magic Moment: Some of the best shots are taken during character meet-and-greets and at Castaway Cay with the ship in the background—photos you’ll treasure for years.
Disney Cruise Photo Package Guide
19. Dining Team Magic for Picky Eaters
Your serving team follows you each night, learning your preferences.
Magic Moment: Many families say their servers become like family by the end of the trip—don’t be surprised if you shed a tear on the last night.
20. Bring Motion Sickness Remedies
Disney ships are stable, but motion sickness can strike anyone.
Pro Tip: Even if you don’t usually get seasick, pack something “just in case.” It’s better to have it and not need it than the other way around.
How to Prevent Seasickness on a Disney Cruise
A Disney Cruise is already filled with magic, but it’s the little insider tips that make the difference between a great vacation and one you’ll never forget. Whether it’s ordering Mickey Bars from room service at midnight, finding the perfect spot on Castaway Cay, or discovering ways to save a little extra, these are the traditions and secrets that seasoned cruisers love to pass along.
No two sailings are ever the same, and that’s part of the fun.
Whether you’re stepping onboard for the very first time or coming back for your fifth (or fifteenth!) cruise, keeping these tips in your back pocket will help you unlock even more of the Disney magic at sea. It’s easy to see why so many families try a Disney Cruise once—and then can’t wait to book the next one.
Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando. In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.