Disney Cruise with Preschoolers | Guide to Fun at Sea

If you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation that’s sure to please both parents and kids alike, a Disney cruise with preschoolers might just be the perfect fit. With plenty of onboard activities and entertainment designed specifically for young children, as well as childcare services and family accommodations, a Disney cruise can provide a fun and stress-free vacation for the whole family.

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We went on our first cruise when our kids were 4 years old and 5 years old, and it was an incredible time for the whole family! They both loved going to the kid’s club, both on the ship in the Oceaneer Club and on Castaway Cay at Scuttle’s Cove. 

Choosing the right Disney cruise for your family can seem a bit overwhelming, but with a little planning and research, you can find the perfect itinerary that will suit your needs and preferences. We always recommend when people are asking what cruise they should go on for their first cruise, to try a 3 or 4 day cruise, to see how your while family likes it. 

From shorter weekend getaways to longer voyages that visit multiple ports of call, there are plenty of options to choose from. Once you’ve chosen your cruise, it’s time to start planning your trip and making the most of your time onboard.

Disney Cruise with Preschoolers Highlights:

• A Disney cruise with preschoolers can be a fun and stress-free vacation for the whole family.
• Choosing the right Disney cruise and planning your trip can take some research and preparation.
• Onboard activities and entertainment, dining options for families, childcare services, and family accommodations are all important things to consider when planning a Disney cruise with preschoolers.

Choosing the Right Disney Cruise

When it comes to planning a Disney Cruise with preschoolers, choosing the right ship and stateroom can set the tone for your trip. Here are some considerations when selecting the perfect Disney Cruise for your family.

Comparing Disney Cruise Ships

Disney Cruise Line currently operates these ships: the Disney Dream, Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy, Disney Wonder, and Disney Wish. With the Disney Treasure to be added to sailing with the fleet in late 2024! Each ship has its own unique features and amenities, so it’s important to compare them to determine which one will best suit your family’s needs.

The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are larger ships with more onboard activities and entertainment options. The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are slightly smaller, but still offer plenty of activities and amenities for families with young children.

The Disney Wish and Disney Treasure are the newest ships to be added to the fleet and they have state of the art amenities on board. 

Disney Wish Ship

For adventurous preschoolers that are going to want to spend time at the Oceaneers Club, you may want to consider which clubs feature their favorite characters. And specific ships sail on certain itineraries, so if you’re looking at a shorter cruise that sails out of Port Canaveral, that will narrow down your choices between a few ships.

Take some time on DisneyCruise.com to put in potential dates you would like to cruise, the port you’d like to sail out of, and you can even put in the ports you’d like to see! Then this will filter down the available cruises based on those criteria, and you’ll know which ships will be sailing with those parameters.

Selecting a Stateroom

When selecting a stateroom for your Disney Cruise, there are a few things to consider. If you have young children, you may want to choose a stateroom that is closer to the main pool deck and dining areas for easy access.

There are also different types of staterooms to choose from, including inside staterooms, oceanview staterooms, and verandah staterooms. 

Family verandah staterooms can be a great option for families with young children, as they offer a private outdoor space to relax and enjoy the view. They also have bunkbeds that fold down every night, and our kids love having their own special space in the staterooms! 

If you’ll be traveling with younger siblings that require a crib, you can also request a Pack’n’Play for your room for little ones to sleep in. 

Understanding Cruise Duration Options

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of cruise durations, ranging from three to seven nights or longer. Shorter cruises can be a great option for families with young children who may not be ready for a longer trip, while longer cruises offer more time to explore and relax onboard.

The determining factor of which time of year to sail may be your family’s schedule and family preferences when selecting a cruise duration. Longer cruises may be more expensive, but may also offer more value in terms of onboard activities and entertainment. If you’ve cruised before, you may want to try a longer cruise to get more out of the experience

By comparing ships, selecting the right stateroom, and understanding cruise duration options, you can ensure that your family has a magical and memorable vacation.

Planning Your Trip

When it comes to planning a Disney cruise with preschoolers, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you plan a successful trip.

Best Times to Cruise with Preschoolers

Having the benefit of not having to plan around a school calendar is a big perk! The best time to cruise with preschoolers is during the off-season. This means avoiding peak times such as school breaks and holidays. 

Not only will you save money on your cruise, but you’ll also avoid the most crowded cruises. Keep in mind that the weather can vary depending on the time of year, so be sure to check the forecast before you go. February is a great time to go for a lower cost, but waters at your destinations may be a bit chillier than other times of year!

Packing Essentials for Young Children

When packing for your Disney cruise with preschoolers, you’ll want to bring all of their essential items plus a few extra changes of clothing – just in case!

We spent a lot of time at the pool and doing water activities on our cruises, so multiple swimsuits, cover-ups and water shoes were a must! Plus, our kids like using goggles when swimming, so we made sure to bring our own.

The ship is full of activities, so you shouldn’t need to bring much in the way of entertainment – however if you’ll need entertainment while traveling to get to port make sure to pack either a tablet they can watch Disney movies on or our kids also loved these Imagine Ink books as preschoolers. They are hours of fun – and no mess when traveling! 

Check our Disney Cruise Packing list for essentials to pack for the whole family!

Pre-Cruise Checklist

Before you set sail on your Disney cruise with preschoolers, there are a few things you’ll want to do to prepare. First, make sure you have all the necessary travel documents, such as passports or birth certificates. 

Next, check with your cruise line to see if there are any specific requirements for traveling with young children. Finally, make sure you have a plan for storing all of your child’s belongings, such as strollers and car seats.

There isn’t a ton of room in the stateroom, so if you’re coming from the theme parks and have a stroller with you – select a small and compact one that will fit under the bed when not in use. 

Onboard Activities and Entertainment

There are plenty of options to keep preschoolers entertained on a Disney Cruise! From interactive play areas to family-friendly shows, there’s something for everyone onboard. Here are a few activities and entertainment options you won’t want to miss.

Discovering the Oceaneer Club and Lab

The Oceaneer Club and Lab are two areas designed specifically for kids aged 3 to 12. Here, your little ones can enjoy a variety of activities, including arts and crafts, video games, and even cooking classes. 

Oceaneer Club on the Disney Dream

The Oceaneer Club is perfect for younger kids, while the Lab caters to older children. Both areas are supervised by trained Disney counselors, so you can relax and enjoy some time to yourself while your children play. Our kids loved going to the club and when they weren’t at the pool, spend a great amount of time at the club!

Each Oceaneer Club is slightly different from the other ships, pictured above is the Oceaneer Club on the Disney Magic!

Enjoying Family-Friendly Shows

One of the highlights of any Disney Cruise is the family-friendly shows that take place onboard. From Broadway-style productions to interactive game shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

The Walt Disney Theatre is the main venue for these shows, and it’s always packed with families eager to be entertained. Be sure to check the daily schedule to see what shows are on during your cruise. Shows will vary by ship as well, check out our Disney Cruise ship comparison blog to see what is offered on the different ships. 

Character Experiences

Of course, no Disney Cruise would be complete without some character experiences! Throughout your trip, you’ll have the chance to meet and interact with some of your favorite Disney characters. 

From Mickey and Minnie to Elsa and Anna, there are plenty of opportunities for photo ops and autographs. Keep an eye on the daily schedule to see when and where characters will be appearing.

There’s no shortage of activities and entertainment options for preschoolers on a Disney Cruise. With so much to see and do, your little ones are sure to have a magical time.

Dining Options for Families

When it comes to dining on a Disney Cruise with preschoolers, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. From the Main Dining Rotations to Casual Dining and Snacks, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the dining options available for families:

Main Dining Rotations

The Main Dining Rotations on a Disney Cruise are a highlight for families. You’ll get to experience three different restaurants, each with its own unique theme and menu. 

The best part? Your servers will follow you to each restaurant, getting to know your family’s preferences and anticipating your needs. This makes dining with preschoolers a breeze, as your server will already know what your little ones like to eat and drink.

Check out our full break down of all of the restaurants in the dining rotations on each Disney Cruise Line ship, on our Disney Cruise ships compared blog!

Casual Dining and Snacks

If you’re looking for something more casual, there are plenty of options available. You’ll find quick-service options like pizza, burgers, and hot dogs, as well as healthier options like salads and sandwiches. There are also snack options available throughout the ship, including ice cream, popcorn, and fresh fruit.

Dining on a Disney Cruise with preschoolers is a stress-free experience. With a variety of dining options available, you’re sure to find something that everyone in your family will enjoy.

Childcare and Nurseries

Utilizing the Small World Nursery

If you’re traveling with children under 3 years old, you’ll be happy to know that Disney Cruise Line offers an exceptional childcare facility called It’s a Small World Nursery. This onboard nursery is designed for children aged six months to three years old. The nursery is open from 9:00 AM to midnight and is staffed by trained professionals who provide a safe and stimulating environment for your little ones.

The Small World Nursery offers a range of activities, including storytime, arts and crafts, and playtime. The nursery also has a separate area for napping, so your child can rest comfortably when needed. The staff will work with you to ensure that your child’s needs are met, including feeding, diaper changing, and potty training.

To utilize the Small World Nursery, you’ll need to make a reservation in advance. Reservations can be made online or by calling Disney Cruise Line. There is an additional fee per hour to utilize the nursery, and there is a two-hour minimum for each session. Space is limited, so it’s recommended that you make your reservations as early as possible.

Family Accommodations and Amenities

When traveling with preschoolers, finding the right accommodations and amenities can make all the difference. Luckily, Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of options to make your family’s stay as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Stateroom Amenities and Storage

Disney Cruise Line’s staterooms are designed with families in mind. Each room features ample storage space for your luggage and personal belongings, as well as a safe to store your valuables. The beds are comfortable and can be configured to fit your family’s needs.

In addition, each stateroom comes equipped with a refrigerator, perfect for storing snacks and drinks for your little ones. And if you need anything else during your stay, your stateroom host or hostess is always available to assist you.

Convenience of Wave Phones

One of the most convenient amenities offered by Disney Cruise Line is the use of Wave Phones. These phones are provided to each family and allow you to stay in touch with each other while onboard the ship. You can use them to call or text other members of your party, making it easy to coordinate activities and meet up throughout the day.

Wave Phones are especially useful when traveling with preschoolers, as they allow you to keep in touch with your little ones even when they are in the kids’ club or participating in other activities.

Laundry and Other Services

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of services to make your stay as stress-free as possible. If you need to do laundry during your trip, there are self-service laundry facilities available on each ship. You can also take advantage of the onboard dry cleaning and pressing services if needed.

Other services available include onboard medical services, which can be helpful if your little one gets sick during the trip. And if you need any special accommodations or have any dietary restrictions, be sure to let Disney Cruise Line know in advance so they can make arrangements to accommodate your needs.

Ports of Call and Excursions

When traveling on a Disney Cruise with preschoolers, one of the most exciting parts of the trip is getting to explore new ports of call and participate in fun excursions.

Here are some options that are perfect for families with young children.

Exploring Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay is Disney’s very own private island in the Bahamas, exclusively available to guests of Disney Cruise Line. This destination is perfect for young children, with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

For those seeking adventure, Castaway Cay offers a variety of excursions such as snorkeling, kayaking, and bike riding. Families can also rent floats and tubes and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. For those who prefer to relax, there are plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas available on the island’s white sandy beaches.

The island also offers a special program called Scuttle’s Cove, a supervised play area for children ages 3-12. Here, kids can participate in organized activities such as treasure hunts, sandcastle building, and even a dance party with their favorite Disney characters.

Family-Friendly Excursion Options

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of family-friendly excursions at each port of call. These excursions are designed to be enjoyable for all ages, including preschoolers.

For example, in Cozumel, families can take a trip to Chankanaab National Park where they can swim with dolphins, explore the botanical gardens, and visit a replica Mayan village. In Grand Cayman, families can visit the Cayman Turtle Centre, where they can interact with sea turtles and learn about conservation efforts.

No matter where your Disney Cruise takes you, there are plenty of exciting excursions for families with preschoolers to enjoy. With so many options available, you’re sure to find something that the whole family will love.

Water Adventures Onboard

If your little ones love to swim, they will have a great time on a Disney cruise! Water activities are always a big part of our experience on Disney cruises, so we always pack a few swimsuits for everyone in the family!

On each of the ships, there are a variety of pools to enjoy. And for the littlest ones, many of the ships have a splash pad area just for preschoolers!

If you’re traveling with older kids, there are also fun water slides! On the Disney Dream there is also the AquaDuck ride that circles the outside of the ship, and on the Disney Wish there the AquaMouse, an interactive water ride that is the first of its kind on a cruise ship!

Special Experiences and Services

If you’re cruising with preschoolers on a Disney Cruise, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of special experiences and services designed just for them. Here are some of the highlights:

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Onboard

For young princesses and knights, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique onboard is a dream come true. Here, kids can get a magical makeover and transform into their favorite Disney character. 

The experience includes hairstyling, makeup, and a costume, all done by Fairy Godmothers-in-Training. Your little ones will feel like royalty as they strut around the ship in their new look.

Pirate Night and Fireworks

One of the most popular events on a Caribbean Disney Cruise is Pirate Night. On this night, the ship transforms into a pirate’s paradise, complete with a pirate-themed dinner, pirate games and activities, and a deck party with a live show and fireworks. Kids (and adults!) can dress up in their best pirate gear and join in the fun. It’s a night you won’t forget.

Get Ready to Set Sail on a Disney Cruise

Sailing with Disney Cruise Line is fun for the whole family! So if you’re planning a Disney cruise with a preschooler, rest assured there is tons for them to do on the cruise!

Our first cruise when the girls were 4 years old and 5 years old was such a great time, that we have been on FIVE Disney Cruises since that one! 

Needless to say, cruising with Disney is a great time and we especially loved that everyone in the family had options of special activities to go to – no matter their age bracket! Our kid’s love the independence of going to the Youth Clubs (if you’re doing the math – they are now in the tween club, Edge for 11 to 14 year olds) and it’s great because it gives the adults a date night while the kids enjoy their activities!

Check out these additional resources to get ready for a Disney Cruise Line sailing:

• Disney Cruise Packing List
• Disney Cruise Ships Ranked
• Disney Magic Western Caribbean Cruises
• Disney Cruises with Tweens and Teens