The Magical Mermaid Mama

It seems like every time I discuss cruising, someone inevitably tells me they are hesitant to cruise because they’re worried they’ll be bored and trapped. If that is your concern, I hope this post will put you at ease! Let’s discuss some onboard activities that will keep boredom far away!

1. Dining

I know few people consider dining entertaining, but if you’re a Disney veteran, this should not surprise you. One of the best perks DCL offers is that dining is all-inclusive with the exception of specialty restaurants. The restaurant options vary depending on the ship you select for your vacation, but they are all fabulous! As I’ve said many times before, DCL truly offers something for everyone. If you prefer more causal dining, the buffet restaurants will be your go-to, along with the quick service restaurants on the upper pool deck. However, if you’re like me and prefer a dining experience, the rotational dining will check every box! Dinner typically lasts about 1-2 hours, depending on your dining preferences, and includes many magical touches throughout the delicious courses. I won’t spoil all the surprises, but my favorite rotational dining experience is Animator’s Palate. To me, this restaurant fully encompasses the magic of Disney!

2. Water Fun

What would a cruise be if it didn’t have plenty of water activities? DCL is proud to offer a great splash pad for littles, a larger splash pad area for bigger kids, a family pool, a satellite pool, waterslides such as the infamous Aquaduck and AquaMouse, hot tubs, an adult only pool, and more! There are plenty of deck chairs and lots of space to spread out, but keep in mind the family pool gets VERY crowded. One of the great things about the family pool area is the main stage where you can catch fun, character infused shows throughout your cruise, not to mention the FunnelVision playing all your favorite Disney classics! Be sure to check your DCL Navigator app to stay in the loop! The adult only area also has a full service bar where you can enjoy the signature drink of the day (as well as a nonalcoholic option). If you want to take full advantage of the water activities onboard, port days will be your best friend. The ship is FAR less crowded on port days, leaving shorter lines and more available space. Don’t wait until a sea day to enjoy pool time, or you’ll likely find yourself disappointed by the large crowds.

3. Clubs and Lounges

DCL is known for their phenomenal kids clubs. I haven’t personally experienced these, but those who have rave about them! For adults, DCL offers fabulous music lounges, sports bars, and night clubs. Be sure to take advantage of these options!

4. Characters and Games

There are SO many character interactions onboard it’s hard to avoid spontaneously running into characters! My toddler had a wonderful time playing with Ariel all to herself in the Atrium in an unscheduled appearance. The Navigator app also lists the scheduled appearances, so you can be in line ready to go! Another fun activity aboard DCL is the gameshows. There are all kinds of games ranging from trivia to more formal “shows.” My husband and I were selected to play “Match Your Mate” in the nightclub on our wedding cruise and had SO much fun! We even won second place and received a prize package. These are such fun bonding experiences for the whole family!

5. Shows

The shows are the gem of DCL, in my opinion. These shows are award winning, Broadway calabar productions with incredible talent in the stunning Walt Disney Theater. Beauty and the Beast is probably my favorite, followed by the Golden Mickeys, but I’ve never seen one I didn’t like! Make every effort to attend!

I have barely scratched the surface of all the fun activities DCL has to offer. There are all kinds of tours, specialty dining, activities, and shopping we could spend all day discussing. I will also remind you to book according to the itinerary if you know the ports of call and excursions are important to you! You truly can’t go wrong with any of the ships. If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times, Disney Cruise Line truly has something for everyone.

Happy Sailing!

Ashley