12 Things First-Time Disney Cruisers Don’t Expect

So you’ve booked your very first Disney Cruise—congratulations!

Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or simply curious about what makes Disney Cruise Line so special, you’re about to experience something truly unforgettable.

But here’s the thing: no matter how much research you do, there are always surprises waiting onboard.

Even seasoned Disney Parks fans are often caught off guard by just how different a Disney Cruise feels. From the size of the staterooms to the quality of the entertainment, there are so many little touches you just won’t expect until you’re living them.

Here are 12 of the biggest surprises that first-time Disney cruisers often discover—along with some insider tips to help you enjoy every magical moment.

1. Disney Cruise Staterooms Are Larger Than Expected

Most first-time cruisers arrive expecting a small, cramped cabin with little storage. Instead, they are greeted with some of the largest standard staterooms at sea.

Disney’s cabins are designed with families in mind, offering clever storage solutions, under-bed space for luggage, and the unique split-bathroom design that allows two people to get ready at once.

This thoughtful layout makes mornings and evenings much smoother, especially for families with children.

disneytreasureoutsidestateroom6 — Disney Treasure Outside Stateroom

Expert Tip: A verandah stateroom gives you a private outdoor space to enjoy ocean views and fresh air. It’s particularly helpful when traveling with kids, as it provides a quiet retreat while little ones nap inside. Don’t worry if you have little ones. There are 2 locks on the door, including one high up at the top.

2. Disney Cruise Room Service is Included

Many cruise lines charge extra for room service, so first-timers are often delighted to learn that Disney includes it in the price of the cruise.

Guests can order such things as sandwiches, burgers, fruit, salads, and even Mickey ice cream bars delivered right to their stateroom at no additional cost.

It’s a convenience that families quickly come to appreciate, whether it’s a quick breakfast before an early excursion or a late-night snack after the evening show.

Expert Tip: While the service is complimentary, it’s customary to tip the crew member who delivers your order. Keeping small bills in your stateroom makes this easy.

3. Disney’s Rotational Dining is Unique

Rotational dining is one of Disney Cruise Line’s signature features, and it often surprises newcomers. Instead of eating in the same restaurant each night, guests rotate through three different themed dining rooms.

The real magic is that your serving team rotates with you, learning your preferences and providing personalized service throughout the cruise.

Expert Tip: Ask your Server for their advice about what you should order from the menu – they are the experts!

4. Free Soda on Disney Cruise Line

On most cruise lines, soda is an additional cost that can add up quickly, especially for families. Disney Cruise Line includes soft drinks at meals and at a 24-hour self-service station on the pool deck.

This is a pleasant surprise for first-timers who are used to budgeting for beverages on other vacations.

The convenience of grabbing a soda, lemonade, or iced tea at any time of day without worrying about extra charges is a small but significant perk.

Expert Tip: The cups provided at the soda station are small. Bringing a refillable tumbler from home saves you multiple trips. are pretty small—bring your own refillable cup for fewer trips.

6. Adults-Only Areas on Disney Cruise Ships

Disney may be known for family vacations, but first-time cruisers are often surprised by how much there is for adults.

Each ship includes adults-only spaces such as the Quiet Cove Pool, exclusive lounges, and fine dining at Palo or Remy.

disneywishcovecafe — Disney Wish Cove Cafe

These areas provide a peaceful escape from the lively family atmosphere elsewhere on the ship.

Many first-time guests comment that they didn’t expect to enjoy as much relaxation time for themselves on a Disney Cruise.

Expert Tip: If your itinerary includes a sea day, consider booking Palo brunch. It’s one of the most popular adult experiences on Disney Cruise Line.

7. Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point are a Disney Cruise Highlight

Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, consistently exceeds expectations.

First-time visitors often assume it will be just another beach stop, but instead they find a destination that feels like an extension of the ship.

The island is beautifully maintained, with separate areas for families, teens, and adults.

Many first-time cruisers say Castaway Cay was the highlight of their trip, thanks to its clear waters, white sand, and Disney’s signature attention to detail.

Disney also has another island destination at Lighthouse Point.

Expert Tip: Rent a bike on Castaway Cay for a fun and inexpensive way to explore the island. The observation tower offers fantastic views of the ship.

8. Disney Cruise Kids’ Clubs Are Exceptional

Parents are often amazed at how much their children love the kids clubs.

They go far beyond traditional playrooms, offering immersive themed spaces like the Millennium Falcon, Marvel Super Hero Academy, and Andy’s Room from Toy Story.

First-time cruisers are frequently surprised when their children beg to spend more time in the clubs than with them. For parents, this means extra time to relax and enjoy adult-focused activities.

Expert Tip: Visit during Open House on embarkation day so your children can explore the spaces with you before attending on their own.

9. Disney Cruise Character Meet-and-Greets

One of the biggest surprises for first-time cruisers is how easy it is to meet characters.

Unlike the long lines at the theme parks, character interactions onboard are relaxed and plentiful.

Guests often encounter characters in the atrium, on deck, or at scheduled meet-and-greets.

These moments feel more personal and less rushed, which makes them especially memorable for families.

Expert Tip: Some special meet-and-greets, such as the Princess Gathering, require free tickets that can be reserved in advance. Check the Navigator app for details.mbarkation day so your kids feel comfortable before dropping them off.

10. Disney Cruise Food Quality Exceeds Expectations

First-time guests often expect standard cruise food, but Disney consistently impresses with the quality and variety of its dining options.

From the themed main dining rooms to quick-service favorites on the pool deck, the food is a highlight of the experience.

disney cruise food — Golden Mystic Pasta at Worlds of Marvel

Even the buffet feels more upscale than many expect. Guests frequently comment that the food exceeded their expectations, both in taste and presentation.

Expert Tip: Don’t hesitate to order multiple entrées or desserts in the main dining rooms. Your servers are happy to bring more.

11. Disney Cruise Crew Members Make the Magic

The service provided by Disney Cruise Line crew members is one of the aspects that surprises first-time guests the most.

From stateroom hosts who create towel animals to dining servers who remember your preferences, the crew consistently goes above and beyond.

Many first-time cruisers say the crew is what made their vacation feel truly magical.

Expert Tip: If a crew member makes your trip extra special, stop by Guest Services to leave a compliment. It’s a meaningful way to recognize their efforts. Also make sure you mention them in the survey at the end of the cruise.

12. Disney Cruise Onboard Credit is a Hidden Perk

One of the biggest surprises for first-time cruisers is discovering that they can receive Disney Cruise Onboard Credit—essentially free money to spend during their sailing.

This credit can come from several sources, including Disney’s own promotions and booking through certain travel agents.

disneywishrainforestpicture — The Rainforest on Disney Wish

Guests are often unsure how onboard credit works, but it’s simple: the credit is applied directly to your account and can be used for extras like port adventures, spa treatments, specialty dining, or merchandise.

Many first-timers don’t realize this option exists, and they miss out on valuable savings.

Disney Cruises consistently exceed expectations. Spacious staterooms, exceptional entertainment, outstanding service, and unique touches like rotational dining and Castaway Cay all combine to create a vacation unlike any other.

Alison

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.