Choosing the right Disney Cruise Line ship is an exciting part of planning your holiday. With each of the Disney Cruise Line ships offering unique itineraries, experiences, and features, you’ll want to pick the one that best matches your travel dreams. Whether you’re after family fun, breathtaking destinations, or a luxurious escape, this guide will help you explore the differences and decide which Disney Cruise ship is right for you.
Why Choosing the Right Ship Matters
When planning your Disney Cruise, the ship you choose can make all the difference in your experience. Disney currently has five operational ships, with several more on the way. Understanding the unique features of each ship will help you tailor your cruise to your family’s preferences.
Whether you’re seeking an adventure-filled cruise or a relaxing voyage, there’s a perfect Disney ship for every type of traveller. Here’s a breakdown of each vessel, along with the exciting new ships set to sail soon.
Disney Magic: A Classic with Endless Charm
The Disney Magic is the first ship in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet and is beloved for its classic, charming atmosphere. Sailing the Atlantic, it offers itineraries to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, from Fort Lauderdale and Galveston. Despite its smaller size compared to newer ships, the Disney Magic is packed with incredible experiences.
Families will love the AquaDunk, a thrilling water slide, and the Rapunzel’s Royal Table, a dining experience featuring your favourite characters from Tangled. The ship’s intimate feel makes it a favourite for travellers seeking a cozier, more personal cruise experience.
This is the ship we sailed on for our 2018 Transatlantic.
Disney Wonder: West Coast Exploration and Beyond
The Disney Wonder is perfect for travellers seeking stunning scenery. Based in the Pacific, it offers voyages along the American West Coast, Hawaii, Alaska, and even Australia and New Zealand.
The Disney Wonder is ideal for nature lovers, especially those keen on exploring Alaska’s icy fjords. Onboard, you’ll find Tiana’s Place, a lively dining experience straight from Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, and the popular Frozen, A Musical Spectacular.
Disney Dream: 3- and 4-Night Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
The Disney Dream now offers 3- and 4-night cruises from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas, perfect for those seeking a shorter getaway. Known for its iconic AquaDuck water coaster and Remy fine-dining restaurant, the Disney Dream offers both excitement and elegance in its shorter itineraries.
This ship is an excellent choice for families and couples looking for a quick escape that still includes the magic of Disney.
Disney Fantasy: Sailing Europe in 2025
Starting in 2025, the Disney Fantasy will embark on exciting European itineraries, offering guests the chance to explore the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and more. This is a great option for those looking to combine the magic of Disney with the rich cultural experiences of Europe.
The Fantasy still offers the same onboard features families love, including the AquaDuck, Star Wars: Command Post, and the interactive Animator’s Palate dining experience.
You can read all about her European Season, including short sailings from the UK, on our dedicated itinerary post here
We sailed on the Disney Fantasy in 2016 for our Honeymoon, they say you always fall in love with your first ship.
Why not take a look at the Disney Fantasy Deck Plan here
Disney Wish: 3- and 4-Night Cruises from Port Canaveral
The Disney Wish continues to sail 3- and 4-night cruises from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas, offering short yet magical voyages filled with modern amenities and Disney storytelling.
Onboard, you’ll find exciting new dining experiences like Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure and Worlds of Marvel, a superhero-themed dining experience. Kids will love the new AquaMouse interactive water ride, and adults can unwind in the serene Quiet Cove.
Magical Traveller Top Tip: The Disney Wish is the perfect ship to pair with a Walt Disney World holiday for those who want to try a Disney Cruise for the first time.
Disney Treasure: 7-Night Caribbean Voyages
Launching in December 2024, the Disney Treasure will sail 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages from Port Canaveral. Themed around adventure, the ship’s decor draws from Disney’s iconic stories of exploration, with influences from Aladdin, Asia, and Africa.
The Treasure will offer immersive dining experiences, themed entertainment, and innovative new features. Guests can expect new Broadway-calibre shows and exclusive dining options tailored to adventurers.
Disney Destiny: 4- and 5-Night Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
The Disney Destiny, set to sail in November 2025, will offer 4- and 5-night cruises from Fort Lauderdale. Like its sister ship, the Disney Wish, the Destiny will feature cutting-edge amenities and entertainment but with new, unique themes and experiences onboard.
With a Black Panther-themed atrium and interactive Spider-Man elements, the Destiny will cater to families who love Disney’s action-packed storytelling. Whether it’s a short Caribbean getaway or an extended break, this ship will be packed with excitement for all ages.
Disney Adventure: Expanding Horizons in Asia
The Disney Adventure will be the first Disney Cruise Line ship based in Asia, with its homeport in Singapore. Launching in December 2025, this ship is designed to bring the magic of Disney cruising to the Asian market. It will be the largest ship in Disney’s fleet, with a gross tonnage of 208,000, and will accommodate approximately 6,700 passengers.
Guests can expect immersive dining, character encounters, and exclusive entertainment that blends Disney magic with local cultures. The Adventure promises to be a new and exciting way for families in Asia to experience Disney’s world-class cruising experience.
Japan-Based Disney Cruise Ship: A New Adventure for Disney Fans in Japan
In a new venture between Disney and the Oriental Land Company (OLC), a sister ship to the Disney Wish will be built and based in Japan. Scheduled to set sail by 2029, this ship will be the first Disney Cruise Line vessel designed for year-round voyages in Japan.
Built at Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, this ship will feature guest-favourite venues and experiences from the Disney Wish, with select modifications specially designed for Japanese guests. It will offer the same magic, world-class entertainment, and exceptional guest service, giving Japanese Disney fans a cruise experience tailored to their preferences.
Fleet Expansion: Four New Ships Announced at D23 2024
In August 2024 at D23, Disney Cruise Line announced the addition of four new ships to the fleet. These ships, which will be delivered between 2027 and 2031, are part of Disney’s ongoing fleet expansion, bringing the total number of ships to 13.
While details about the new ships, including their names and itineraries, are still in development, they are expected to introduce even more innovative and immersive Disney experiences. This ambitious fleet expansion is designed to offer more families around the world the opportunity to experience Disney Cruise Line’s renowned service and entertainment.
Which Disney Ship is Right for You?
With so many exciting ships to choose from, the right Disney ship for you depends on your travel preferences. For classic charm, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder offer intimate experiences. For families seeking non-stop fun, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy are ideal. And if you’re after modern amenities and cutting-edge features, the Disney Wishand Disney Treasure are perfect.
If you’re looking to experience Disney magic in Asia, the Disney Adventure will be your ship of choice, while Japanese guests will soon have their very own Japan-based Disney Cruise to look forward to. With even more ships on the horizon, the possibilities are endless for your next Disney Cruise holiday.
Final Thoughts – Disney Cruise Line Ships
No matter which ship you choose, you’re in for a magical Disney Cruise experience filled with excitement, adventure, and enchantment. Whether it’s a tropical escape or an expedition through Alaska’s wilderness, Disney Cruise Line has the perfect ship and itinerary for every type of traveller.
Ready to book your next cruise? Reach out today, and we’ll help you find the Disney Cruise that’s just right for you!
Why Not Join Our Magic at Sea Disney Cruise Line UK Facebook Group
We have a community of like-minded Disney Fans over on Facebook, so why not come and join us?
Book Your Disney Cruise Line Adventure Today
You can use our cruise search tool to find your next Disney Cruise, then send us a message using the Disney Cruise Search tool to allow us to send back a tailor-made proposal for you.
Plus, When you book your Disney Cruise with us, you’ll receive an exclusive onboard credit:
- $50 for booking an Inside or Oceanview Stateroom.
- $100 for booking a Verandah Stateroom.
- $200 for booking a Concierge Suite.
This credit can be used toward everything from speciality dining, spa treatments, to Disney merchandise onboard! If you would prefer that credit as a discount off your cruise, please just let us know.