Let’s face it: deciding between the Disney Fantasy and the Disney Wish isn’t easy. Both ships have their own magic, but they offer completely different experiences.
As someone who’s sailed on both ships multiple times, I can confidently say they each shine in their own way.
The Fantasy? It’s timeless, elegant, and perfect for longer, adventure-packed vacations.
The Wish? It’s Disney’s newest class of ship with jaw-dropping design features and immersive experiences.
So, which ship is right for you?
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about itineraries, dining, staterooms, entertainment, and more to help you make the best choice.
Disney Fantasy vs. Disney Wish: First Impressions
Before we look more closely at the details, let’s talk about the overall impression and feeling of each ship.
Disney Fantasy
Launched in 2012, the Fantasy is all about classic elegance. It’s a timeless ship with Art Nouveau-inspired design, spacious staterooms, and a focus on traditional cruise experiences.
With its new itineraries for 2025 and 2026, the Fantasy now offers everything from Bahamian cruises with two private islands to Mediterranean and Northern European adventures.
Disney Wish
The Wish, launched in 2022, is sleek, modern, and packed with Disney magic — from themed staterooms to immersive dining experiences and cutting-edge entertainment like the AquaMouse water coaster.
From the moment that you step into the Grand Hall you just know that this is going to be a very special ship. The attention to detail is just breathtaking. To describe the ship as beautiful is almost an understatement.
The Wish focuses on shorter 3- and 4-night Bahamian cruises, ideal for first-time cruisers or anyone craving a quick Disney getaway. Each itinerary has a port stop at one of Disney’s exclusive island destinations – Castaway Cay or Lighthouse Point.
Related: Complete Guide to Disney Wish
Getting Around Each of the Disney Ships
If there’s one area where the Disney Wish stumbles, it’s navigation. The ship’s design, while modern and visually stunning, can feel a bit confusing compared to the Disney Fantasy’s more straightforward layout.
When people talk about negatives of Disney Wish and the newer ships, this one comes up a lot. It is a deal breaker? Not for me, but for many people this is a big reason why they do not list the Triton Class ships as their favorite.
Why Navigation Feels Difficult on the Disney Wish
- Chopped Layout
- The Wish has a spectacular, huge Grand Hall, but some of the other design features just a bit too small. Many of the bars are small and some are open to the walkways which for some people just doesn’t seem to work with the amount of people on the ship.
- There is no mid ship elevator. Some people prefer the traditional layout of the older ships. But if there was a mid ship elevator then the Grand Hall space could not be as large.
- Crowded Walkways
- The Wish’s design prioritizes aesthetics over functionality in some areas. Hallways and public spaces can feel narrow, especially during peak times like after dinner or before shows.
No Traditional Promenade Deck
One of the biggest differences between the Disney Wish and the Disney Fantasy is the lack of a traditional promenade deck on the Wish.
- On the Fantasy:
- The promenade deck is a favorite spot for many cruisers. You can walk or jog all the way around the ship while enjoying ocean views and the fresh sea breeze. It’s also a great place to relax in the shade or watch the sunrise.
- On the Wish:
- There’s no full wraparound promenade deck. Instead, there are smaller outdoor areas, but they don’t provide the same open, relaxing experience. This can be a disappointment for seasoned cruisers who love the classic promenade vibe.
Who Will Notice These Issues?
- First-Time Cruisers: May not notice the navigation challenges or miss the promenade deck if they’ve never sailed before.
- Seasoned Cruisers: If you’re used to other Disney ships (or traditional cruise layouts), the Wish may feel less intuitive and more difficult to navigate.
My Take: While the Wish’s design is stunning, the Fantasy’s layout and promenade deck make it easier to navigate and more relaxing for those who want classic cruise features. I prefer the Disney Fantasy layout, and do not like the fact that Disney Wish does not have a proper promenade deck, but this is not a deal breaker for me.
Dining: Classic Elegance vs. Immersive Experiences
Dining is one of the biggest differences between the Fantasy and the Wish. Both ships offer Disney’s rotational dining system, where you’ll experience a new themed restaurant each night with the same servers, but the styles couldn’t be more different.
Dining on the Disney Fantasy
The Fantasy keeps things classic and elegant, with restaurants that feel timeless and sophisticated.
- Animator’s Palate
- A Disney Cruise staple where your drawings come to life on the restaurant’s screens.
- Menu Highlights: Black Truffle Pasta Purseittes, Herb-Crusted Pork Chop, and Chocolate Fudge Cheesecake.
- Royal Court
- Inspired by Disney princess films, this regal dining room features chandeliers, mosaics, and a fairytale atmosphere.
- Menu Highlights: Roasted Rack of Lamb, Oven Baked Salmon Royale, and Grand Marnier Soufflé.
- Enchanted Garden
- A serene, garden-themed space with lighting that transitions from day to night.
- Menu Highlights: Pan Seared Sea Bass, Prime Rib, and Sticky Date Pudding.
Adult-Exclusive Dining
- Palo: Italian sophistication with stunning ocean views. Don’t skip the Chocolate Soufflé.
- Remy: A luxurious French-inspired dining experience perfect for foodies.
Dining on the Disney Wish
The Wish redefines dining with immersive, theatrical experiences that bring Disney magic to your table. It really takes the dining entertainment experience to the next level.
- Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure
- Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, and Olaf perform live during this Nordic-inspired dinner.
- Menu Highlights: Elsa’s Baked Scallops, Roasted Beef Rib-Eye, and Elsa’s Coronation Sundae.
- Worlds of Marvel
- A superhero-themed dining adventure where you help Ant-Man and the Wasp save the day.
- Menu Highlights: Roasted Beef Tenderloin, Golden Mystic Pasta, and Pym Doughnut Sundae.
- 1923
- A tribute to Disney’s early days, this sleek restaurant serves some of the best food at sea.
- Menu Highlights: Seared Salmon Filet, Filet Mignon.
Adult-Exclusive Dining
- Palo Steakhouse: A modern take on the classic Palo, combining Italian cuisine with premium steakhouse cuts.
- Enchante: Inspired by Beauty and the Beast, this is an upscale, multi-course dining experience by a Michelin-starred chef.
Related: Is Enchante Worth the Cost?
The restaurant and dining experiences are very different on Disney Fantasy as compared to Disney Wish. For me I actually prefer Disney Fantasy – even though the two shows on Disney Wish at Arendelle and Worlds of Marvel are certainly more immersive.
One general criticism of Disney Wish dining is that the tables are very close together, and that the shows, particularly in Arendelle are loud, with not everyone getting a view of the entertainment. On Disney Fantasy, with the exception of Animator’s Palate, the restaurant experience is more about the decor, the food and the service, rather than revolving around the show.
Related: Dining on Disney Wish
Entertainment: Classic Shows vs. Cutting-Edge Performances
The shows on Disney Cruise Line ships are Broadway-quality productions that bring Disney stories to life. But the Fantasy and the Wish offer very different lineups.
Shows on the Disney Fantasy
The Fantasy’s entertainment is all about classic Disney magic. Here’s what you can expect:
- Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular
- A Broadway-style adaptation of the beloved animated film, complete with magic carpet rides, Genie’s hilarious antics, and iconic songs like “Friend Like Me.”
- Frozen: A Musical Spectacular
- A wonderful adaptation of this new Disney classic featuring the iconic “Let it Go”.
- Disney‘s Believe
- A lavish production featuring 20 beloved Disney characters including Mary Poppins, Peter Pan and Cinderella.
Shows on the Disney Wish
The Wish’s entertainment takes things to the next level with immersive, innovative productions.
- Disney Seas the Adventure
- A musical journey starring Captain Minnie, Goofy, and a host of Disney characters, with show-stopping numbers from Moana and Frozen.
- The Little Mermaid
- A fresh, reimagined take on the classic tale, with stunning visuals, updated songs, and breathtaking performances.
- Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular
- The same beloved production found on the Fantasy, but with updated staging and effects to take advantage of the Wish’s cutting-edge theater.
It is difficult choosing between the Disney Wish and Disney Fantasy line up here. I think that Disney Fantasy has the edge for me here, simply because I a such a huge fan of the Frozen stage show. I have seen this many times on Disney Fantasy and Disney Wonder and I never tire of watching it. But for others hearing Let it Go even one more time may be a little too much!
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Staterooms: Classic Comfort vs. Modern Whimsy
Your stateroom is your home away from home, and Disney Cruise Line staterooms are among the best and largest at sea.
Staterooms on the Disney Fantasy
The Fantasy’s staterooms are designed with classic elegance, featuring Art Nouveau-inspired decor and plenty of space for families.
- Key Features:
- Split bathrooms with separate sinks and a tub/shower combo.
- Spacious options like Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms and Concierge Suites.
- Magical portholes in inside staterooms that display real-time ocean views with surprise Disney character animations.
Staterooms on the Disney Wish
The Wish’s staterooms are modern and whimsical, with fairytale-inspired artwork and clever storage solutions.
- Key Features:
- Themes inspired by characters like Cinderella and Frozen.
- Slightly smaller rooms but with smart under-bed storage.
- Concierge-level rooms with exclusive perks like a private lounge and sun deck.
It is difficult to choose between the two looking at the staterooms. Disney Wish staterooms are beautifully themed, but the design of the storage on Disney Fantasy is just that bit better. And if you are thinking of booking an inside stateroom then the magical portholes are a lot of fun. It is interesting that DCL didn’t repeat this feature on the newer ships.
If sailing Concierge then Disney Wish is the winner as the pool deck has an oceanview, unlike that of Disney Fantasy. It also has it’s own pool and hot tubs, whereas Disney Fantasy does not have a pool.
Bars and Lounges: Relaxation and Themed Fun
Disney Cruise Line ships are known for their themed bars and lounges, and both the Fantasy and the Wish offer incredible options. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape, a lively night out, or a unique themed experience, you’ll find something to love on both ships.
Bars and Lounges on the Disney Fantasy
The Fantasy’s bars and lounges are classic and elegant, offering a mix of sophistication and fun. Most are located in the Europa District, an adults-only area with a European theme.
- O’Gills Pub
- A cozy, Irish-inspired pub perfect for catching a game or enjoying a pint.
- Signature Drink: Martini Royale.
- Skyline Lounge
- A sleek, modern bar where the “skyline” changes to showcase cities like Paris, London, and New York.
- Signature Drink: The Paris 75, a champagne cocktail with a twist.
- La Piazza
- An Italian-inspired lounge designed to feel like a charming piazza in Italy, complete with a Vespa and carousel centerpiece.
- Signature Drink: Bellini.
- The Tube
- A London-themed nightclub with a fun, vibrant atmosphere. Think red phone booths, Union Jack decor, and a dance floor.
- Meridian
- Located between Palo and Remy, this outdoor lounge is perfect for a pre-dinner drink while watching the sunset.
- Signature Drink: Singapore Sling
- Ooh La La
- Beautifully themed champagne bar.
- Signature Drink: RIng of Bubbles
Bars and Lounges on the Disney Wish
The Wish’s bars and lounges are modern, immersive, and heavily themed, with some truly unique options you won’t find on other Disney ships.
- Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge
- The crown jewel of the Wish’s bar scene, this Star Wars-themed lounge is out of this world (literally). Sip galactic-inspired cocktails while watching planets like Tatooine and Mustafar fly by on the “windows.”
- Signature Drink: Don’t forget The Kaiburr Crystal, a $5,000 cocktail (yes, you read that right!) for those looking to splurge. Talking to one of the Servers there recently they haven’t sold one in many many months!
- The Bayou
- A New Orleans-inspired lounge with a Tiana’s Place vibe. Live jazz music and beignets make this spot feel magical.
- Signature Drink: The Hurricane.
- Nightingale’s
- A Cinderella-inspired piano bar featuring live music and a menu of sparkling cocktails.
- Signature Drink: The Sweet Nightingale.
- Keg & Compass
- A nautical-themed pub with a Viking-inspired design. Perfect for craft beer lovers.
- Signature Drink: Ayinger Celebrator Dopplebock
- Quiet Cove Pool Bar
- An adults-only retreat near the Quiet Cove Pool. Great for relaxing with a tropical cocktail while soaking up the sun.
Which Ship Wins for Bars and Lounges?
- Choose the Disney Fantasy if:
- You prefer elegant, European-inspired lounges with a classic vibe.
- You’re looking for a variety of nightlife options like pubs, nightclubs, and cocktail bars.
- Choose the Disney Wish if:
- You’re into heavily themed, immersive experiences (Star Wars fans, this is your ship).
- You want modern, Instagram-worthy bars that feel fresh and unique.
Final Thoughts: Which Ship Should You Choose?
Here’s the bottom line:
- Pick the Disney Fantasy if:
- You want longer, more varied itineraries.
- You love traditional Disney entertainment and classic, elegant dining.
- You’re traveling with a family that needs a little extra space in staterooms.
- Pick the Disney Wish if:
- You’re all about modern, immersive experiences (from dining to shows).
- You’re a first-time cruiser or looking for a short, action-packed getaway.
- You want to try Disney’s newest and most innovative ship.
Both ships offer unforgettable experiences, and no matter your choice, you’re in for a magical adventure.
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.