We've made the mistakes so you don't have to!
Here at Kingdom Konsultants, we have sailed aboard every Disney ship multiple times, and many of us are parents too, so we have learned what works and what doesn't. There are many great tips and tricks out there, but these 5 mistakes are easily avoidable and will gaurantee smooth sailing!
🛑 Mistake #1: Booking excursions in every port
Don’t overschedule your cruise. Sometimes all you need is a floatie, sand toys, a lounger, and time to chill while the kids play in the sand and water. Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay both have water playground areas and guarded beaches with free chairs and life jackets available. You can rent snorkels sets if you'd like, but there is so much to see and do on the islands that don't cost anything. Check out our complete guides to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay for more tips and photos from our experiences there.
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Water playground at Lookout Cay |
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Lookout Cay Beach |
✈️Mistake #2: Flying in the same day as the cruise.
Arrive the day before if you're flying, especially in the fall (hurricane season) and winter (snow delays.) You’ll thank yourself when travel goes sideways. You can stay near the port, the airport, or if you fly into Orlando for a cruise in Port Canaveral, stay at a Disney World hotel! There's nothing better than a Disney Land & Sea vacation. The DCL Motorcoach will take you from the resort to the ship. Cruise transportation is also available from the ship to Disney World as well, if you want to add a few days in the parks after your cruise.
☕ Mistake #3: Rushing in the morning and fighting breakfast buffet crowds.
Order breakfast, coffee, and fruit to the room. It’s free and keeps little ones happy while you get ready. You can also take advantage of Sea Day Brunch in the sit down restaurants. Guests can fill out a door hanger menu with their breakfast selections and desired delivery time, and hang it on their door before 3:00 a.m. The breakfast slots typically run from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Room service is complimentary on Disney cruises, but tipping is customary. More info on Room Service
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Photo disneycruise.com |
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Room Service Breakfast |
💸 Mistake #4: Forgetting about extra costs like tips and photos
Budget for souvenirs, gratuities, and character photos—they aren’t included. You can prepay your gratuities and purchase a photo package before you sail so you don't have a bill after your cruise. The photographers will use your phone to take pictures if you ask them. Use your Kingdom Konsultants onboard credits for drinks or souvenirs! For more money saving tips check out this blog: 10 Ways to Save Money on DCL
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Sailaway Party Drink |
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Princess Gathering |
👩👩👧 Mistake #5: Not joining your cruise's Facebook group
Find your cruise group on Facebook by searching the ship name and date. You'll get inside info, excursion recommendations, and be able to join fun exchanges called "Fish Extenders" and meet-ups. Kids love to participate in Fish Extenders, and receive a few small gifts on their cabin door from other cruisers. You can also find other parents who have kids the same age as yours, and meet up for swimming or fun on the sports deck.
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Agent Adela delivering Fish Extenders |
BONUS TIP: Booking with Kingdom Konsultant Travel has many benefits including free on board credit for your to spend on your cruise, personalized service, up-to-date information and reminders, and cruise expertise. We will also inform you of any promotions available for your desired cruise dates to help you save money. For more info on dining, onboard activities, ports and reviews visit our Disney Cruise Line Blogs.
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I ask the photographers to use my phone! |
We're so excited to be booking cruises on the new Disney Destiny, Disney Adventure and Disney Treasure! Contact your Kingdom Konsultant Agent today for expert cruise planning!
Bon Voyage!
Summer loves helping parents plan stress-free Disney Cruises for their family. Email her at Summer@kingdomkonsultant.com.
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