Disney Cruise Line

DCL - Disney Cruise Line (disneycruise.disney.go.com) is a passenger shipping company and a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company. Incorporated in 1996 as Magical Cruise Company Ltd, the company is headquartered in London, England (UK), with operational headquarters in Celebration, Florida (USA).

Currently, DCL owns and operates six ships (Treasure, Wish, Fantasy, Dream, Wonder, Magic), along with the private island Castaway Cay, Bahamas, which serves as an exclusive port for Disney-owned vessels.

Disney Cruise Line (DCL) was initially created in 1995 when The Walt Disney Company commissioned the liners Magic (1998) and Wonder (1999) from Fincantieri, Italy. With these newbuilds, DCL ended its ship charter arrangement with Premier Cruise Line (founded in 1983, defunct in 2000). In the 1980s, Disney partnered with Premier Cruises to offer roundtrip voyages from Florida (Port Canaveral/Orlando City), promoting "family cruise vacations" featuring Disney characters. A fleet expansion project involving two new ships by Meyer Werft, Papenburg, Germany was announced in 2007. Disney Dream debuted in 2011, Disney Fantasy in 2012, and Disney Wish in 2022.

DCL's current President is Jeff Vahle.

In July 2022, DCL increased the recommended onboard gratuities by US$1 per day per passenger, raising the rates to US$14.50 pp (most staterooms) and US$15.50 pp (concierge suites).

In July 2023, DCL raised the prices of dining at its adults-only specialty restaurants (Palo, Palo Steakhouse, Enchante, Remy). These venues charge per person.

• (Fleetwide) Palo now costs $50 for both brunch and dinner.
• (Disney Wish) Palo Steakhouse costs $50.
• (Disney Fantasy and Dream) Remy charges $80 for brunch, $135 for dinner, and $65 for dessert.
• (Disney Wish) Enchante charges $80 for brunch, $65 for dessert, $125 for the "Passion" experience, and $195 for the "Collection."
• Tasting seminars, including the Mixology Class, increased in price from $25 to $45 pp (as of April).

DisneyBand+

In 2022, Disney Wish introduced the "DisneyBand+" — a water-resistant wristband similar to Walt Disney World's MagicBand+. The device was rolled out fleetwide in 2023.

Before the voyage, guests can use the band for a smoother embarkation process. Upon arrival at the cruise port, scanning the band allows for expedited check-in and boarding.

Once onboard, the DisneyBand+ functions as a stateroom key, replacing traditional key cards.

It can also be used to pay for food and beverages at dining venues and merchandise at onboard shops, eliminating the need for credit cards. On Castaway Cay, the band works similarly for purchases and shopping.

DisneyBand+ is available in various designs and over 50 styles. Prices start at US$35 for solid colors, while themed versions cost US$45 (plus tax). DCL recommends purchasing bands at least 45 days before departure to ensure timely delivery.

Guests who already own a MagicBand+ from Walt Disney World can use it as a substitute for DisneyBand+.

New Ships 2022–2031 (DISNEY TRITON-Class)

In October 2022, German broadcaster NDR aired an interview with Christoph Morgen (GHK's MV Werften insolvency administrator), revealing that the unfinished (~75% completed) 9,000-passenger liner Global Dream/Disney Adventure—originally ordered by Genting Hong Kong for Dream Cruises—could be acquired by DCL, with delivery expected in Q4 2024.

• Global Dream's construction was halted in January 2022 when MV Werften filed for bankruptcy.
• Although the purchase price was undisclosed, the previously reported shipbuilding cost was EUR 1.6 billion.
• DCL's interest was not officially confirmed until November 16, 2022, when the acquisition was announced.
• On October 4, 2022, Reinhard Meyer (Minister of Economics, Infrastructure, Tourism, and Labor of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania) mentioned "confidential negotiations" and noted that completing the vessel would preserve jobs for ~950 former MV Werften employees in Wismar.
• Industry analysts suggested that acquiring Global Dream could help Disney enter the Asian cruise market.
• The vessel's new name, Disney Adventure, was announced on September 9, 2023. She is expected to begin revenue service in December 2025, homeporting in Singapore for year-round deployment.

In March 2016, DCL announced plans to build three of its largest-ever ships and signed a construction agreement with Meyer Werft GmbH (Germany’s largest shipbuilder). These vessels are slightly larger than the Fantasy and Dream.

Disney’s three newbuilds were scheduled for delivery in 2022 (Wish), 2024 (Treasure), and 2025 (Destiny).

DCL officially announced its plan to build three new ships on July 15, 2017. Once operational, the additions will nearly double the company's fleet. All three vessels are being constructed by Meyer Werft (Papenburg Shipyard). The announcement was made by Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.

The ships' interior designs, onboard features, and itineraries are still under development. What is confirmed is that they will be LNG-powered (liquefied natural gas), built as a series with identical design. Each vessel will have a gross tonnage of 144,000 (up from the originally planned 135,000 GT) and maximum passenger capacity of 2,500 (1,250 staterooms), making them slightly larger than Dream and Fantasy. The first ship, Disney Wish, debuted in Q2 2022. Names for the second and third ships were later confirmed as Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny.

On March 9, 2018, Disney revealed an exterior rendering showcasing the line's traditional black, white, and red hull color scheme. A new feature is the golden flair of the superstructure. Between the funnels is a top-deck waterpark with waterslides. Balcony cabins are located midship, offering more spacious accommodations for passengers.

DCL also announced that the new ships will be homeported in Florida — in Miami (Destiny) and Port Canaveral (Wish, Treasure).

On August 10, 2024, during D23 2024 (Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase), Josh D’Amaro (Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences & Products) announced that DCL's fleet will expand to 13 vessels. Four new ships, ordered from Meyer Werft Papenburg, will be larger, newly designed or modified, and are scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2031.

New Disney ship in Japan

On July 9, 2024, DCL signed an agreement with Oriental Land Co Ltd (OLC) to launch year-round Disney cruises in Japan. Oriental Land Company Ltd (founded in 1960, a subsidiary of Keisei Electric Railway Company) owns and manages Tokyo Disney Resort in Urayasu (Chiba Prefecture, Honshu Island).

Under this agreement, OLC will build and operate a Disney-branded cruise business in Japan, set to begin operations in Q1 of 2029.

The introduction of a Japan-based Disney ship will offer local fans the opportunity to enjoy Disney-themed voyages with signature entertainment, dining, and service year-round.

Constructed by Meyer Werft Papenburg, the vessel will be a sistership to Disney Wish, with a volume of ~140,000 GT, powered by LNG, and featuring ~1,250 passenger staterooms.

"Adventures by Disney" cruises to Antarctica

In 2021, DCL planned to introduce its first cruises to Antarctica and, in 2023, its first Galapagos voyages—both via chartered ships. These "expedition ship travel" options are operated by DCL's tour subsidiary, "Adventures by Disney," marking Disney’s first-ever expedition voyages.

Disney's Antarctica program is operated through a charter agreement with the French premium travel brand Ponant Cruises.

Postponed to 2023 due to the COVID crisis, DCL's Antarctic program features 12-day/11-night itineraries visiting the Antarctic Peninsula via the Drake Passage, with an overnight stay in Buenos Aires, Argentina prior to the charter flight to Ushuaia (homeport).

The Ponant ship Le Boreal (max passenger capacity 264) operates the voyages. Before boarding, guests spend two days touring the Ushuaia region (Patagonia), including Tierra del Fuego National Park and a ride on the Southern Fuegian Railway (aka "Train of the End of the World"), the world's southernmost functioning railway.

Disney's Antarctic cruises include several days of exploration with landings and coastal cruising by Zodiacs (large-capacity rigid inflatable speedboats). Optional activities include premium kayaking tours and a 3-night hotel/4-day guided tour package in Buenos Aires titled "Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition Cruise."

Adventures by Disney recommends a minimum age of 12 for Antarctic voyages and restricts bookings to children at least 10 years old due to the trip's duration, potential for extreme weather or sea conditions, and the physical activity involved.

Fares for Disney's inaugural Antarctic cruises (2023) started at USD 12,800 (EUR 10,740/GBP 9,180) for adults and USD 11,500 (EUR 9,560/GBP 8,247) for children, based on double occupancy. The fare includes two domestic flights (Buenos Aires–Ushuaia–Buenos Aires), a stay at the Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta Hotel, and 31 meals (11 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 10 dinners). The expedition features professional services by naturalists, Disney-trained guides, special guests, Zodiac excursions, landings, and onboard activities for all ages. International flights (to/from Ezeiza International Airport) are not included.

Bookings opened on November 12, 2021.

"Adventures by Disney" cruises in the Galapagos Islands

Adventures by Disney's Galapagos program debuted in 2022, with prices starting at USD 6,300 (EUR 5,290/GBP 4,518) for adults and USD 5,600 (EUR 4,700/GBP 4,016) for children, based on double occupancy.

Disney’s Galapagos Islands program uses the chartered ship Galapagos Legend (built 1963, max capacity 110). Adventures by Disney restricts bookings to guests aged 12 and up.

The 9-day/8-night package includes a roundtrip itinerary with two domestic flights (Quito–Baltra–Quito), 23 meals (8 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 7 dinners), and a 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay in Quito. International flights (to/from Wyndham Quito Airport) are not included in the fare.

The itinerary includes visits to Quito City (Day 1), Baltra Island (embarkation, Day 2), South Plaza Island (Day 3), North Seymour Island (Day 3), San Cristobal Island (Days 4-5), Espanola Island (Day 6), Floreana Island (Day 7), and Santa Cruz Island (Day 8), before returning to Baltra for the flight back to Quito.

"Adventures by Disney" cruises in the Mediterranean/Adriatic

In October 2022, DCL announced its first Adriatic Sea voyages — two 8-day itineraries aboard PONANT's ship Le Bougainville scheduled for 2024.

The "Adriatic Expedition Cruise" is a roundtrip from Venice City (Italy), visiting seven Adriatic ports: Croatia (Korcula, Primosten/Krka National Park, Split, Dubrovnik, Hvar, Rovinj) and Montenegro (Kotor).

From Rovinj, bus tours are organized to Slovenia to explore Postojna Cave Park. Other excursions include kayaking around the Pakleni Islands (off Hvar), bicycling in Hvar’s Stari Grad, and catamaran touring of Montenegro’s Boka Bay.

Up to six professional tour guides accompany passengers and lead all onboard and onshore activities. Adults-only activities include cocktail workshops and fitness classes.

Junior Adventurers (12 and under) can enjoy exclusive programs such as navigation lessons, pizza parties, a "Pirates of the Adriatic" swim party, and a "Dalmatian Dash" scavenger hunt.

Departures were scheduled for June 25 and July 2, 2024. General bookings opened on October 27, 2022, with priority bookings available starting October 24.

"Adventures by Disney" river cruises

In Europe, Adventures by Disney partnered with one of the world’s largest river cruise companies, AmaWaterways, to offer voyage-chartered river cruise packages.

A "voyage charter" involves chartering a vessel (and crew) for a specific departure and custom itinerary. Disney pays AmaWaterways a lump-sum fee, while AmaWaterways covers port taxes, fuel, and crew costs. The charter includes an exclusive laytime for boarding and disembarkation of Disney guests.

Onboard, Disney offers all-inclusive deals covering accommodations, meals, entertainment, and shore excursions. A team of Disney Adventure Guides — English-speaking storytellers — provide immersive experiences both onboard and ashore.

In 2021, Disney launched its largest-ever river cruise program, with 30 departures on the Danube and in France (Seine, Rhine, Rhone). Select themed sailings catered to adults, including Food and Wine cruises and Oktoberfest (featuring German beer tastings). New for 2021 was Disney’s Rhine River program, which included a visit to Papenburg and an exclusive tour of the MEYER WERFT shipyard where MS Disney Wish was under construction.

In April 2025, Adventures by Disney will launch two new 7-day roundtrip itineraries from Amsterdam in Holland and Belgium, featuring windmills, renowned museums, canal cruises, and beer and food tastings.

Disney ship cruising experience

Disney Cruise Line is widely recognized as one of the best family cruise brands, offering some of the most affordable and inclusive family cruise packages. The company leads the industry in family-focused cruising, with "Disney World land and sea" packages among the top choices for Caribbean vacations. These itineraries are operated with modern ships and partnered with Disney’s land resorts.

DCL provides regular sailings from Florida (mainly to the Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean) departing from its private cruise terminal at Port Canaveral, conveniently located near Orlando and the world-famous Disneyland Park. Special itineraries include Alaskan cruises (from Seattle WA and Vancouver BC) and Panama Canal repositioning voyages between Alaska and the Caribbean.

All Disney ships are designed for families, featuring a Walt Disney Theater (Broadway-style), Buena Vista Cinema (for Disney films), Studio Sea (a TV sound stage for G-rated shows on Magic and Wonder), and "D Lounge" (on Fantasy and Dream). "Disney Digital 3-D" on Magic and Wonder provides an immersive cinema experience with lasers, fog, streamers, and lighting effects.

The main pool areas are designed for families, with a kids’ pool featuring a 200-ft Mickey-themed waterslide and a splash area for toddlers. Adults-only pools are available across the fleet, with larger ships offering expansive adult areas across multiple decks.

The AquaDuck water park (on Fantasy and Dream) is one of the first watercoasters at sea. Located on the top deck, its transparent acrylic tube propels riders on rafts up and down four decks, even extending 13 feet over the ship’s side, 150 feet above sea level.

Palo is a boutique Italian restaurant available on all Disney ships. Remy, available on Fantasy and Dream, serves premium French cuisine and features the highest dining surcharge at sea — USD 85 per person.

Adult-only areas also include the rainforest-themed spa steam room and nightclubs like "Route 66" (Wonder), "Europa" (Fantasy), "The District" (Dream), and "Beat Street" (Magic). Other adult venues include sports pubs and dance clubs. For more, visit CruiseMapper’s Disney secrets, tips, and tricks.

Disney ships' kids and teen programming

The company's kids' program is professionally organized and operated by highly trained and certified youth counselors. Each cruise ship offers a variety of pre-scheduled daily activities, including character meet-and-greets, themed breakfasts, animation workshops, parades, and firework shows. Onboard nurseries are named "It's a Small World" (on Fantasy and Dream) and "Flounder's Reef Nursery" (on Magic and Wonder). These nurseries provide complimentary childcare for infants (ages 12 weeks to 3 years), featuring toys and supervised fun activities. They also include indoor porthole windows (semi-transparent one-way mirrors) that allow parents to check in without being seen. For an additional fee, guests can pre-order baby supplies online through a partnership with "Babies Travel Lite."

The ship's "Oceaneer Club" spans nearly an entire deck and is a supervised program for children aged 3 to 7 (split into age groups 3–4 and 5–7). The "Oceaneer Lab" (for children aged 8 to 12, split into groups 8–9 and 10–12) offers hands-on science experiments, ship-wide scavenger hunts, themed deck parties (with Disney costumes provided), and high-tech interactive programs. Children ages 11–12 can also participate in a marine biology game show and send digital postcards to friends.

Teens (ages 13–17) have access to private clubs ("Stack" and "Aloft") equipped with plenty of seating, MP3 listening stations, the latest video games, popular board games, magazines, and teen bars serving smoothies and soft drinks. On Fantasy and Dream, teens are divided into two age groups: 11–13 (at "Edge") and 14–17 (at "Vibe," which includes an outdoor sundeck with hot tubs).

After boarding, children are automatically enrolled in kids' programs on Castaway Cay, which include bike riding, supervised group games, and private island experiences. Disney character appearances are scheduled several times daily.

Most Disney cabins feature a bath-and-a-half design—the second bathroom includes a sink, toilet, and vanity, while the full bathroom has a sink, tub/shower, and toilet.

Shipboard facilities

Spa and Fitness Facilities

• Senses Spa & Salon (Dream and Fantasy)
• Vista Spa & Salon (Magic and Wonder)
• Fitness Center (all ships)
• Goofy's Sports Deck (Dream and Fantasy) – an open-air center with mini golf, sports simulators, and a basketball-volleyball court
• Wide World of Sports (Magic and Wonder) – an open-air center with a basketball court and ping-pong tables

Onboard Theaters (all ships)

• Buena Vista Theater – first-run movies, 3D cinema, top-quality equipment, plush seating
• Walt Disney Theater – live performances, Broadway-style Disney-themed shows, and movies

Youth Clubs

• Disney's Oceaneer Club (all ships) – supervised themed activities for ages 3–7
• Disney's Oceaneer Lab (all ships) – themed activities for ages 8–12
• Edge (all ships) – teens-only area with video games, TV, and Internet access
• Vibe (all ships) – teens-only area with a sundeck and pool
• D Lounge (Dream and Fantasy) – family lounge and nightclub
• Studio Sea (Magic and Wonder) – family activity center
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (Fantasy) – kids' makeover salon
• Arr-cade (Dream and Fantasy) – arcade for all ages
• Quarter Masters (Magic and Wonder) – arcade for all ages
• Flounder's Reef Nursery (Magic and Wonder) – themed after "The Little Mermaid" (ages 3 months to 3 years)
• It's A Small World Nursery (Dream and Fantasy) – ages 3 months to 3 years

Shipboard Nightclubs and Lounges

• 687 – sports bar (Dream)
• Bon Voyage – family bar (Dream and Fantasy)
• Cadillac Lounge – piano bar (Wonder)
• Cove Cafe – adults-only (all ships)
• Currents – cocktail bar (Dream and Fantasy)
• District Lounge – nightclub (Dream)
• Diversions – sports pub and karaoke (Magic and Wonder)
• Evolution – disco club (Dream) – family during the day, adults-only at night
• O'Gills Pub – Irish-themed sports bar (Fantasy)
• La Piazza – adults-only (Fantasy)
• Meridian – adults-only (Dream and Fantasy)
• Outlook Cafe – adults-only (Wonder)
• Pink – adults-only (Dream)
• Promenade Lounge (Magic and Wonder)
• Rockin' Bar D – music club (Magic), family-friendly during the day, adults-only at night
• Sessions – piano bar (Magic)
• Signals – adults-only (Magic and Wonder)
• Skyline – adults-only (Dream and Fantasy)
• The Tube – adults-only nightclub (Fantasy)
• Vista Cafe – family-friendly (Dream and Fantasy)
• WaveBands – family activities during the day, dance club at night (Wonder)
• Waves – family-friendly (Dream and Fantasy)
• Ooh La La – adults-only with Victorian furniture (Fantasy)

The FUN Pools (swimming pools)

• AquaDuck – four-deck-high water coaster (Dream and Fantasy)
• Donald's Pool – family pool (Dream and Fantasy)
• Goofy's Pool – family pool with two whirlpool spas, a toddler pool with splash zones, and a 7.3x4.3m LED screen on the forward funnel (Magic and Wonder)
• Mickey's Pool – kids-only, one-deck-high slide (all ships)
• Nemo's Reef – kids' water play area (Dream and Fantasy)
• Quiet Cove Pool – adults-only (all ships)

In March 2015, Disney Cruise Line introduced "Mickey Check" meals fleetwide.

• Disney's "Mickey Check" is used across Disneyland Resorts, Walt Disney World, and on Disney-licensed food products. It's part of the "Disney Magic of Healthy Living" initiative (launched in 2006) to make healthy eating easier and more fun for families. These meals are available in the onboard rotational dining rooms.
• To qualify for the "Mickey Check," food must meet the Walt Disney Company's Nutrition Guidelines (developed by leading child health experts), with limits on saturated fat, calories, sugar, and sodium. A "Mickey Check" kids’ meal includes at least three nutritious food groups (such as vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains), contains no trans fats, and has limited added sugars.

Since November 2019, all Disney ships offer complimentary texting for crew members (unlimited messages sent and received) on iOS and Android devices.

Disney private island Castaway Cay (Bahamas)

Castaway Cay is a private Bahamian island leased by Disney Cruises, serving as an exclusive port of call for Disney ships. Formerly known as Gorda Cay, Castaway Cay is located near Great Abaco Island. In 1997, the Walt Disney Company secured a 99-year lease from the Bahamian Government (expiring in 2096), granting the company significant control over guest experiences on the island.

In August 2017, Disney announced plans to acquire a second private island in the Caribbean to serve as an exclusive destination for its growing fleet. Castaway Cay has a capacity limit of around 875 cabins, beyond which the island becomes too crowded. One potential option was Egg Island (Bahamas), but the plan was scrapped after environmental studies revealed the island's ecosystem could not support the proposed development.

New Disney private island in the Bahamas (Eleuthera)

On October 19, 2018, The Bahamas granted tentative preliminary approval for Disney Cruise Line to build and exclusively operate a private cruise port (Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point) on the southern tip of Eleuthera Island. The project is being developed by Disney Parks and Resorts, a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company. Disney agreed to purchase a 746-acre (302-hectare / 3 km²) parcel of land for this purpose. The port will feature a dedicated pier (for one ship), a marina, shops, restaurants, and guest walkways through forests and around salt ponds.

The project is expected to create approximately 150 permanent local jobs and offer entrepreneurial opportunities for Bahamian residents. The Bahamas Parliament must officially approve the plan after all environmental testing is completed and terms are finalized.

In March 2019, Disney was granted permission to acquire the Lighthouse Pointe resort property (Grand Lucayan, Freeport) from Meritage Hospitality Group Inc (a US-based company). The 190-acre (77-hectare / 0.77 km²) property will serve as a second cruise port and an entertainment venue on non-cruise days. Disney plans to invest between USD 250–400 million to develop the area similarly to Castaway Cay. As part of the agreement, Disney will donate the southernmost point of the land (valued at USD 6.3 million) to the Bahamian Government for a national park.

Key features of the new Bahamas port include low-density, sustainable development, public access, economic opportunities for Bahamians, and an 80:20 Bahamian-to-foreign worker ratio during construction. After completion, 150 permanent jobs with health benefits will be created for Bahamians. Construction will begin following the approval of an Environmental Impact Assessment and Management Plan.

Currently, Eleuthera Island is also home to Princess Cays, a private resort owned by Carnival Corporation through its subsidiary Princess Cruises.

New Disney cruise cancellation policy

Since September 2018, Disney Cruise Line has implemented a revised final payment and cancellation policy.

• For standard staterooms on itineraries of 1 to 5 nights, final payment is due 90 days before departure (previously 75 days). Cancellation fees now begin at 89 days prior to departure, at which point the deposit is non-refundable. At 44 days, 50% is non-refundable; at 29 days, 75%; and at 14 days or fewer, 100% is forfeited.
• For standard staterooms on itineraries of 6 nights or more, payment is due 120 days before departure (previously 90 days for itineraries of 5–9 nights). Cancellations made 56+ days before departure lose the deposit. Cancellations made between 55–30 days lose 50%, 29–15 days lose 75%, and 14 days or fewer lose 100%.
• For concierge cabins and suites, final payment remains due 120 days before departure for 1–5 night cruises, and 150 days before departure for cruises of 6 nights or more.

The company also removed final payments and cancellation fees for holiday cruises—those that include July 4th, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or Thanksgiving Day.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Disney Cruise Line suspended all passenger operations across its fleet (all four ships) by canceling all voyages scheduled between March 14, 2020, and June 30, 2021.

DCL cruise operations resumed in 2021:

• Disney MAGIC: July 15 – UK cruises to nowhere from Southampton; October 28 – Caribbean from Miami
• Disney DREAM: August 9 – Bahamas from Port Canaveral
• Disney FANTASY: September 11 – Bahamas from Port Canaveral
• Disney WONDER: November 5 – Panama Canal (San Diego to Galveston)
• Disney WISH: June 17, 2022 – Maiden Voyage to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral

• DCL's 2021 Alaska program (Disney Wonder from Vancouver) was canceled.
• DCL's 2021 Europe program (Disney Magic) was canceled, with a mini-season in the UK (Around Britain itineraries) limited to UK residents.

All affected bookings received full monetary refunds, including prepaid Walt Disney packages and services. Guests opting to rebook received a 125% future cruise credit (FCC), which had to be used within 15 months of the canceled sailing's departure date. Guests who chose not to rebook were offered a full (100%) refund.

By 2025, DCL–Disney Cruise Line’s fleet had doubled in size following the addition of two newbuilds (now on order/under construction). Primarily deployed in the USA-Caribbean region, the new vessels were homeported in Miami (Disney Destiny) and Port Canaveral (Disney Wish, Disney Treasure).

DCL operates the "Disney Cruise Line Terminal" at Port Canaveral, Florida, which serves as the homeport for Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream. Disney Magic is based in Miami, Florida, while Disney Wonder is homeported in Galveston, Texas, San Diego, California, and Vancouver, BC, Canada (for Alaska cruises).

DCL offers a variety of destinations including Europe, the Caribbean, The Bahamas, the Panama Canal, Canada and New England, Alaska, the US Pacific Coast, and Transatlantic crossings. Most itineraries are roundtrips to The Bahamas, and the Eastern and Western Caribbean. During summer, Disney Wonder sails on Alaskan voyages from Vancouver. All DCL itineraries to The Bahamas include a stop at DCL's private Caribbean island CASTAWAY CAY (north of Nassau) as an exclusive port of call.

Since November 2023, Disney Dream has been homeported (for the first time) at Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This deployment followed her European season (Mediterranean from Barcelona and Civitavecchia-Rome, and UK-Baltic from Southampton). The 4- and 5-night itineraries visit ports in The Bahamas (Castaway Cay, Nassau) and the Western Caribbean (Cozumel, Mexico, and Grand Cayman).

From February 18 through April 10, 2023, Disney Magic was homeported in New Orleans, Louisiana. The seasonal program included 4-, 5-, and 6-day roundtrip Western Caribbean itineraries to Cozumel (4-day), Cozumel and Costa Maya (5-day), and Cozumel with Grand Cayman/George Town Harbour (6-day).

"Adventures by Disney" expedition voyages

DCL's subsidiary, "Adventures by Disney," offers expedition-style cruise vacations on chartered ships.

Launched in 2022, the program currently features sailings in the Galapagos Islands (chartering the Galapagos Legend), Antarctica, and Europe/Mediterranean (chartering two PONANT ships – Le Boreal and Le Bougainville).

Adventures by Disney’s 2024 schedule includes the following itineraries and departure dates:

• "Galapagos Islands Expedition Cruise" – March 17–25, June 9–17, July 14–22, August 7–15, December 18–26.
• "Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition Cruise" – December 17–28, 2023, and February 17–28, 2024.
• "Arctic Expedition Cruise" – July 1–10, 2024.

All Adventures by Disney cruises are English-speaking and led by professional tour guides.

(NEW) "Adventures by Disney" river voyages in 2025

On January 19, 2023, Adventures by Disney opened bookings for two new river cruise routes launching in April 2025, visiting popular ports in Holland and Belgium.

Each voyage is a 7-day roundtrip from Amsterdam, featuring visits to windmills, renowned museums, canal tours, and tastings of beer, chocolate, cheese, and waffles.

The “Discover Holland and Belgium Tour” itinerary includes Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam, Ghent, Brussels, Antwerp, Kinderdijk, Gouda, and Bruges. Highlights include a Rotterdam Pilgrim walking tour, Utrecht’s Museum Speelklok and Castle de Haar, and an exploration of Brussels’ influence on comic books. An adult-exclusive departure is also available.

The “Tulip Tour” (inaugural sailing April 13, 2025, on AmaLucia) visits Amsterdam, Hoorn, Middelburg, Ghent, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Kinderdijk, and Schoonhoven. It features visits to Keukenhof Gardens/Lisse and the Floralia Brussels flower show at Grand Bigard Castle.

The "Discover Holland and Belgium Tour" is scheduled for the AmaStella (summer season) and AmaViola (holiday season), starting June 28, 2025.

Prices start at US$4,900 for children and US$5,500 for adults.

DCL cruise itineraries 2025–2026

DCL has two year-round homeports in Florida (including its first full season out of Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale) and also operates roundtrip cruises from California, Louisiana, and Texas.

Following her inaugural Australia-New Zealand season, Disney Wonder began operating 3- to 7-night Mexican Riviera voyages from San Diego, California in March 2024. Ports of call include Cabo San Lucas, Ensenada, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan, along with stops at Catalina Island, CA.

In March 2023, DCL announced the debut dates and select itineraries for its new Bahamian destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point (on Eleuthera Island). The resort was inaugurated in June 2024, with first visits by the Disney Magic (June 6 from Fort Lauderdale) and Disney Fantasy (June 8 from Port Canaveral), along with stops at Castaway Cay.

Lighthouse Point is featured on select 3-, 4-, and 5-night roundtrips to The Bahamas.

In summer 2026, DCL will deploy two ships in Alaska for the first time, with Disney Magic joining Disney Wonder on 7-day roundtrips from Vancouver, BC. Disney Magic’s itinerary includes Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Hoonah/Icy Strait Point, with scenic cruising through Endicott Arm Fjord (Dawes Glacier).

The Disney Adventure begins revenue service in December 2025, homeporting in Singapore for year-round Southeast Asia deployment. From Singapore, she will operate short cruises to nowhere (3- and 4-night roundtrips with only sea days and no port calls). Her inaugural season (December 2025 to March 2026) includes ~30 voyages, plus two longer 5-night holiday sailings on December 22 (Christmas) and December 27 (New Year’s) 2025.

In June 2024, DCL unveiled itineraries from fall 2025 through spring 2026. Ships including Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Dream are scheduled to visit Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay. Additionally, Disney Wonder will begin her third South Pacific season (Australia and New Zealand) from October 2025 through February 2026.

As part of Disney’s themed sailings, families can enjoy holiday cruises including Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime voyages in September, October, November, and December 2025.

In February 2025, Disney announced its 2026 deployment, featuring expanded itineraries in Alaska, Europe, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia. The new season introduces additional ports of call and increased ship deployment across key markets.

• Alaska: Dual-ship deployment from Vancouver, BC, Canada

For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will deploy two vessels in Alaska during the 2026 season. Beginning in May, Disney Magic joins Disney Wonder to operate 7-night voyages from Vancouver. Itineraries include calls at Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan, with most sailings featuring scenic cruising at Dawes Glacier, a 600-foot tidewater glacier. Disney Magic also adds a call at Icy Strait Point, known for its wildlife and Indigenous cultural experiences.

• Europe: Expanded Mediterranean and Northern routes

Disney Cruise Line expands its European offerings with Disney Dream, which introduces Cagliari (Sardinia, Italy) as a new port of call. The ship begins with a transatlantic crossing from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida) to Barcelona (Spain), then launches 7- to 12-night Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome). These sailings visit destinations in Italy, Greece, Croatia, Malta, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Norway, Belgium, and the United Kingdom.

Later in the season, Disney Dream repositions to Southampton (England), offering 3- to 7-night sailings to Northern Europe and the Norwegian fjords. Highlights include calls at Olden (Norway), Copenhagen (Denmark), and Portland UK.

• Caribbean and Bahamas: Multiple homeports and new itineraries

Three Disney ships will sail from Port Canaveral (Orlando FL) in summer 2026. Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will operate 3- to 5-night Bahamian cruises, with Disney Fantasy also offering a 10-night Southern Caribbean itinerary. Disney Treasure will sail 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages, calling at destinations such as Tortola (British Virgin Islands), Falmouth (Jamaica), Cozumel (Mexico), and St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands). All three ships will visit Disney’s private destinations, Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

From Fort Lauderdale, Disney Destiny, launching in November 2025, will offer 4- and 5-night Bahamian and Western Caribbean itineraries, as well as select 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings.

• Southeast Asia: Disney Adventure debuts in Singapore

Disney Adventure, debuting in December 2025, will operate 3- and 4-night cruises from the Marina Bay Cruise Centre in Singapore throughout summer 2026. The ship features themed entertainment inspired by Disney, Pixar, and Marvel, including three new Marvel attractions and a Broadway-style production, "Remember," created exclusively for the vessel.

Summer 2025 itineraries (Europe & Caribbean)

In her debut summer season in Europe, Disney Fantasy will sail from Barcelona, Spain and Civitavecchia-Rome, Italy, from May through late July. Itineraries, ranging from 5 to 12 nights, will explore scenic Mediterranean ports, including a special 12-night cruise to the Greek Isles.

From late July to September, Disney Fantasy will be homeported in the UK at Southampton, England, visiting popular destinations in Spain, Norway, and the British Isles.

In summer 2025, four Disney ships will operate from Florida, with three departing from Port Canaveral and one from Fort Lauderdale.

Disney Treasure will offer 7-night Caribbean itineraries to Castaway Cay, Tortola, BVI, St. Thomas, USVI, Falmouth, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel.

Disney Magic will sail from Port Canaveral on 4- and 5-night voyages to The Bahamas and Disney’s private islands.

Disney Dream, departing Fort Lauderdale, will offer 3- to 5-night cruises to Nassau, Castaway Cay, and Cozumel.

Both Disney Magic and Disney Dream will call at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point (Disney’s new Bahamian private resort) in summer 2025. Some itineraries will include both exclusive destinations—Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay.

Disney Wish, sailing from Port Canaveral, is scheduled for 3- and 4-night roundtrips to Nassau and Castaway Cay. Disney Dream will operate similar routes from Fort Lauderdale.

(animal cruelty) The Faroe Islands cruise boycott

In 2014, Disney became the first cruise company (followed in 2016 by AIDA and Hapag-Lloyd) to ban the Faroe Islands (a Danish territory) as a destination on its Northern European itineraries.

The boycott was in response to the island nation's annual mass slaughter of pilot whales. This gruesome practice, protected by Denmark, is known as "Grindadrap Grind." Locals use motorboats to drive pods of whales into harbors, where the animals are dragged into shallow waters and brutally slaughtered with knives (6-8 inches long) in front of cheering crowds. Even baby whales are pulled from their mothers during the killings.

The Faroe Islands, with a population of approximately 50,000, kill more than 1,000 pilot whales each year. You can view the cruise ship schedule for Torshavn—the Faroe Islands' most visited port. All cruise lines that continue to call there are accused of supporting these brutal whaling practices. Whaling remains officially sanctioned in "civilized" countries such as Japan, Norway, and Iceland, with over 2,000 whales killed annually and active trade in whale products.

Disney's decision came in response to the "Faroese Pilot Whaling Act," which continues to allow the culling of pilot whales. The law also authorizes local authorities to imprison anyone found guilty of disrupting these whaling activities, with sentences of up to two years—despite widespread international condemnation.

Sea Shepherd and Greenpeace are among the largest organizations actively opposing the "Faroese Pilot Whaling Act." Many of the graphic images circulating online showing slaughtered whales in pools of blood are published by these groups.