Imagine waking up to the sight of the ocean sparkling under the morning sun, with festive garlands, twinkling lights, and Disney characters dressed in holiday attire welcoming you to a magical Christmas at sea. A Disney Christmas Cruise is the ultimate way to celebrate the holidays—combining the wonder of Disney, the joy of Christmas, and the adventure of cruising, all in one unforgettable vacation.
Whether you’re a family with kids, a couple seeking festive romance, or multigenerational travelers looking to create lasting holiday memories, a Very Merrytime Cruise with Disney Cruise Line is an experience like no other.
What Is a Disney Christmas Cruise?
A Disney Christmas Cruise, officially known as a Very Merrytime Cruise, is a special themed sailing offered by Disney Cruise Line during the holiday season, typically from early November through late December. These sailings transform Disney’s already magical cruise ships into floating winter wonderlands, filled with seasonal cheer, themed events, and Disney character celebrations.
Ships That Offer Disney Christmas Cruises
All five Disney Cruise Line ships offer Very Merrytime sailings:
- Disney Dream – Known for its elegance and shorter 3-5 night cruises from Florida.
- Disney Fantasy – Often hosts 7-night Caribbean cruises.
- Disney Magic – Offers a more intimate ship size, sometimes sailing from Galveston or Miami.
- Disney Wonder – Features Pacific Coast or Caribbean itineraries.
- Disney Wish – The newest and most luxurious of Disney’s fleet.
What to Expect on a Disney Very Merrytime Cruise
1. Festive Decorations
From the moment you board, you’ll be greeted by oversized Christmas trees, sparkling wreaths, life-size gingerbread houses, and magical snowfall in the atrium. The ship is fully decked in holiday style.
2. Meet and Greet with Disney Characters
Expect Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, and more—all dressed in festive holiday outfits, perfect for unforgettable family photos.
3. Santa Claus Is Onboard!
Yes, Santa himself is part of the cruise! Kids can meet Santa in a dedicated space, and he even makes surprise appearances throughout the voyage.
4. Deck the Deck Party
Join a lively holiday deck party with music, dancing, and appearances from your favorite characters in a tropical-themed Christmas celebration.
5. Holiday-Themed Activities
Craft holiday cards, decorate cookies, and create ornaments. Kids can also enjoy storytelling sessions with Mrs. Claus and themed scavenger hunts.
6. Tree Lighting Ceremony
Kick off your cruise with a Tree Lighting Ceremony on the first night, complete with carols and a countdown hosted by Mickey and friends.
7. Gingerbread House Display
Each ship features a custom-designed gingerbread house, freshly constructed by Disney pastry chefs and featuring real gingerbread, frosting, and candy.
Dining and Christmas Menus
Disney Cruise Line is known for its rotational dining, meaning you’ll experience different restaurants each night, with the same attentive serving team following you. During Very Merrytime sailings:
- Special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day menus are served.
- Indulge in roasted turkey, holiday ham, Christmas pudding, and festive desserts.
- Hot cocoa and cookies are often available in the evening.
- Adults can enjoy holiday-themed cocktails and mulled wine in the lounges.
Disney Cruise Line All-Inclusive Pricing
Disney Cruise Line fares are often considered “premium all-inclusive”, meaning that a lot is included in your base fare:
What’s Included:
- Accommodations
- All meals (main dining rooms, buffets, room service, quick-service)
- Soft drinks, coffee, tea, and juice
- Broadway-style shows and entertainment
- Kids’ clubs and youth programs
- Character meet and greets
- Deck parties and seasonal activities
- Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island) on select sailings
What’s Not Included:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Specialty dining (e.g., Palo, Remy)
- Shore excursions
- Gratuities (typically $14.50 to $15.50 per person per day)
- Spa treatments
- Wi-Fi packages
Sample Pricing and Packages (2025 Season)
Prices vary based on ship, itinerary, and stateroom type, but here’s a rough idea for the 2025 holiday season:
1. 3-Night Bahamian Cruise (Disney Wish)
- From Port Canaveral, Florida
- Interior stateroom: $2,100 total (2 adults + 2 kids)
- Oceanview: $2,400
- Verandah: $2,800
- Concierge level: Starts at $4,500
2. 7-Night Eastern Caribbean (Disney Fantasy)
- Departs December 21, 2025
- Interior stateroom: $6,800
- Oceanview: $7,400
- Verandah: $8,200
- Concierge: $12,000+
Prices are subject to change and often sell out quickly during the holiday season. Booking early is highly recommended.
Perks and Exclusive Holiday Highlights
1. Family-Friendly Entertainment
Enjoy Frozen-themed musical shows, Pirates IN the Caribbean night, fireworks at sea, and Disney movies under the stars on the pool deck.
2. Free Castaway Cay Access
Most Caribbean itineraries include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, decorated with “snow” sandmen, wreaths, and a festive tropical vibe.
3. Fireworks at Sea
Experience a Disney-exclusive fireworks show from the upper deck on select nights—truly a magical holiday touch.
4. Youth Clubs and Teen Lounges
Kids ages 3–12 can join the Oceaneer Club, while teens and tweens have their own hangouts like Edge and Vibe, all decked out in holiday spirit.
5. Holiday Shopping
Onboard gift shops sell exclusive holiday Disney Cruise merchandise, perfect for souvenirs and limited-edition collectibles.
Popular Disney Very Merrytime Cruise Itineraries
Caribbean & Bahamas (3–7 nights)
- Depart from Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, or Miami
- Visit Castaway Cay, Nassau, Cozumel, and more
- Great for first-time cruisers
Western Caribbean (5–7 nights)
- Stops in Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Cozumel
- Great for families looking for more adventure
Mexican Riviera (Disney Wonder)
- Depart from San Diego
- Visit Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Ensenada
- Perfect for West Coast families
Transatlantic & Panama Canal (select ships)
- Longer itineraries with holiday sailings and themed ports
- Ideal for experienced cruisers or retirees
Pro Tips to Maximize Your Disney Christmas Cruise
- Book Early – Holiday cruises fill up fast, and prices rise quickly. Book 12+ months in advance if possible.
- Download the Disney Cruise App – View schedules, make reservations, and check character appearances.
- Bring Holiday Attire – Matching pajamas for the family, Christmas sweaters, and themed outfits make for great photos!
- Reserve Character Greetings – Some character meetups require reservations—book these as early as possible.
- Plan Your Excursions – Shore excursions and adult dining options (like Palo and Remy) fill up quickly.
- Gratuities – Budget for daily gratuities ($14.50–$15.50 per person/day) and additional tips for bartenders or spa staff.
Is It Worth It?
If you’re looking for a stress-free, magical, all-inclusive holiday experience, a Disney Christmas Cruise is hard to beat. From world-class entertainment to festive food and magical moments with beloved characters, it’s a vacation that both kids and adults will remember forever.
Final Thoughts
Spending Christmas aboard a Disney Cruise combines the best of the holiday season with the enchantment of Disney magic and the joy of a tropical getaway. With themed parties, dazzling décor, unforgettable entertainment, and premium service, a Disney Christmas Cruise is a dream come true.
Luxury Vacations Consulting is here to help plan every moment of magic. Whether you’re celebrating as a family, couple, or group of friends, it’s an extraordinary way to make holiday memories that will last a lifetime.
BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION WITH US
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