Large Family Sailing on Disney Wish
A Multigenerational Cruise Adventure: Insights from a Senior Travel Advisor
As travel professionals, we often curate vacations that cater to diverse needs, especially for multigenerational families. Recently, one of our travel advisors, Cameron Cooper, shared her Disney Cruise Line experience sailing with a party of 12—spanning from ages 5 to 70+. Her detailed review provides invaluable insights for families planning similar trips.
Seamless Pre-Cruise Logistics
Cameron’s family began their journey with a stay at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport, a strategic choice for coordinating multiple arrivals. This hotel offers unparalleled convenience, allowing family members flying in from different locations to meet easily before embarking on their cruise adventure. We always recommend arriving to your embarkation port at least one day early.
Smooth Embarkation
The terminal experience in Port Canaveral can be streamlined by completing online check-in and using Disney Cruise Line ground transportation. Be sure to arrive at your given port arrival time!
Accommodations: Comfortable & Thoughtful Touches
The family all stayed in Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandahs. Each room was well-situated, offering sunrise and sunset views on the port side. Highlights included:
Split bathrooms, which were a hit with seasoned cruisers.
Attentive room hosts who managed dietary restrictions and requests for themed character sheets.
Verandah dividers opened upon request to create a connected, spacious feel for the family.
Be sure to check out our packing list for cruises to make the best use of the space!
Dining: A Culinary Delight for All Ages
Dining aboard the ship received rave reviews, particularly for the allergy-friendly options. Here’s what stood out:
Allergy Management Excellence: One child with milk and wheat allergies was treated to an impressive variety of meals, from churro waffles to cheeseburgers, making the experience stress-free for the family.
Special Dining Experiences: A private brunch at Palo Steakhouse was a highlight for the adults, blending elegance with indulgence in a serene atmosphere.
Flexible Dining Rotations: The group dined twice at the quieter 1923 restaurant, ideal for older adults with hearing sensitivities.
Family Activities & Entertainment
DCL is known for its exceptional family offerings, and this trip was no exception:
Kids Clubs: The Oceaneer Club impressed with meticulous allergy protocols and engaging activities for children aged 5-9.
Mixology & Adult Entertainment: A South African-themed mixology class added a cultural twist to the experience.
Entertainment for All Generations: Live shows like The Little Mermaid and Aladdin resonated deeply with parents nostalgic for their childhood, while kids enjoyed interactive elements like confetti and props.
Final Thoughts: Is DCL Right for You?
Here's who will benefit most:
Perfect Fit: Families with children, Disney fans, and multigenerational groups whether they are familiar with cruising or first-time cruisers.
Consider Carefully: Adults without strong Disney ties might be better matched with some of our other cruise partners. We are here to help you decide which cruise line is best for you!
Whether you're planning for a family reunion or hoping to share the magic of Disney at sea with friends, Cameron’s experience offers a wealth of advice to ensure smooth sailing for all.