Planning your first Disney cruise is exciting — but it can also feel a little overwhelming.
Disney Cruise Line is very different from other cruise lines, and even seasoned Disney park fans are often surprised by how cruising works.
Knowing what to expect ahead of time can make a huge difference in how relaxed and confident you feel once you step onboard.
If you’re getting ready for your first Disney cruise, these are the seven most important things to know before you sail — so you can enjoy the magic without the stress.
1. Your Stateroom Matters More Than You Think
Many first time Disney cruisers assume their stateroom is simply a place to sleep. In reality, your stateroom can have a big impact on how comfortable and enjoyable your cruise feels — especially on sea days or longer sailings.
Disney staterooms are well designed and generally more spacious than those on many other cruise lines. Most feature excellent storage, thoughtful layouts, and Disney’s signature split bathroom design, which makes mornings much easier for families.
Choosing the right stateroom category comes down to your travel style.
If you plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship, shows, and activities, an inside stateroom may be all you need.
If natural light helps you feel energized, an oceanview stateroom can make the space feel brighter and more open. Verandah staterooms are especially popular with guests who enjoy quiet mornings, sunsets, and private outdoor space.
Concierge staterooms offer more room and priority services for guests who want an elevated, low?stress experience.
The right stateroom doesn’t have to be the most expensive — it just needs to fit how you like to vacation.
Related: How to Choose the Right Stateroom for your Disney Cruise
2. Disney Cruise Pricing Is Mostly All Inclusive (But Not Everything)
One of the biggest surprises for first time Disney cruisers is how much is already included in the cruise fare.
Disney Cruise Line pricing may look higher upfront, but many onboard experiences are covered.
Your cruise fare includes all main dining meals, rotational dining restaurants, Broadway style stage shows, family entertainment, kids’ clubs, pools, and most onboard activities.
Snacks like soft serve ice cream and quick bites are also included.
However, there are some additional costs to plan for.
Alcoholic beverages, specialty adult dining, spa services, port adventures, and gratuities are not included in the base fare. Specialty coffee, souvenirs, and select treats also carry an extra charge.
Understanding what’s included — and what isn’t — helps you budget confidently and enjoy the cruise without worrying about unexpected expenses.
Related: What is and What is Not Included in a Disney Cruise
3. You Need to Plan Some Things Early — But Not Everything
Disney cruises reward early planning, but that doesn’t mean your vacation needs to be over scheduled.
Certain experiences are best booked in advance, including popular port adventures, adult only dining, spa appointments, and specialty onboard activities.
These can fill quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
At the same time, many first time cruisers feel pressured to plan every detail.
One of the best parts of a Disney cruise is its flexibility.
There are multiple showtimes, open activities throughout the day, and plenty of entertainment that requires no reservations at all.
Planning your must do experiences early allows you to relax onboard and enjoy the cruise at your own pace — and some of the best moments happen when you don’t plan them at all.
Related: The Ultimate Guide to What to Book and When
4. Disney Ships Are Designed for Families and Adults
A common concern for first time cruisers — especially adults traveling without children — is whether a Disney cruise will feel too focused on kids.
Disney Cruise Line excels at creating spaces for everyone.
While kids’ clubs and family areas are lively and immersive, each ship also features dedicated adults only spaces designed for relaxation and quiet.
Adults only pools, lounges, and dining venues offer a peaceful escape, whether you’re enjoying a spa day, a romantic dinner, or a sunset cocktail.
Couples and adults without kids often find Disney cruises surprisingly relaxing and well balanced.
This thoughtful design allows families to enjoy time together while still giving adults space to unwind.
Related: How to Have the Time of your Grown up Life on a Disney Cruise
5. Port Days Are Optional — Staying Onboard Can Be Magical
First time Disney cruisers often feel like they must get off the ship at every port. While exploring ports can be fun, staying onboard is always an option — and sometimes the most relaxing choice.
On port days, many guests leave the ship, which means shorter lines for waterslides, quieter pools, and a calmer atmosphere overall.
The spa often offers port day specials, and it’s a great time to enjoy the ship’s amenities without crowds.
Some guests prefer to explore every destination, while others choose a mix of port adventures and onboard relaxation.
Both approaches are perfectly valid — the key is doing what feels right for you.
6. Rotational Dining Is One of Disney’s Biggest Perks
Disney’s rotational dining system is one of the things first?time cruisers tend to love most — especially families.
Instead of choosing one restaurant for the entire cruise, you rotate through different themed dining rooms. Your dining time stays the same each night, and your serving team rotates with you.
This system allows your servers to learn your preferences, remember dietary needs, and create a more personal dining experience.
It also means you get to experience multiple restaurants without having to make separate reservations.
Rotational dining combines variety with consistency, making dinner each night feel special and stress free.
Related: Food on a Disney Cruise – What You Need to Know
7. A Disney Cruise Feels Very Different From a Theme Park Trip
Many guests board their first Disney cruise expecting it to feel like a floating theme park — busy, fast paced, and packed with constant activity.
Instead, most are surprised by how calm and relaxing it feels.
The magic is still there — characters, storytelling, and exceptional service — but the pace is slower and more laid back.
There are no long lines to manage and no pressure to do everything in one day.
For many travelers, a Disney cruise becomes their favorite Disney vacation and a tradition they return to again and again.
Related: Disney Cruise or Disney World
There is no single “right” way to do a Disney cruise — only the way that works best for you.
When you understand how Disney Cruise Line is different, you can plan with confidence, avoid common first?timer mistakes, and truly enjoy the experience.
Take your time, choose thoughtfully, and let Disney handle the details.
Your first Disney cruise is just the beginning.
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.