We took our first Disney cruise without kids and loved it—there are 3 things we’d do differently next time
A break aboard the Wish
The trip began with a flight from Boston to Orlando and a departure aboard the Disney Wish. The traveler said that once they boarded, they no longer had to think about much, a welcome change for two friends raising seven children between them, including three sets of twins.
Activities ran throughout the ship, and guests could join in at different times. The traveler took a short class on drawing Ursula, played trivia with other adults and took character photos to send to the children at home.
Meals and shipboard favorites
Many costs were included in the package, including meals at themed restaurants, non-alcoholic drinks and room service around the clock. At Marceline Market, the traveler liked combining healthier choices with favorites such as fried hash browns and Mickey-shaped churro waffles.
They could not get a reservation at Palo, the Italian restaurant, but spent time at the Keg & Compass pub. The traveler praised its vodka dirty martini, priced at $14, and said it was the best she had tried, even compared with drinks at New York restaurants.
Time ashore and at sea
Although the ship rocked less than expected, the traveler could still feel some movement and said getting onto the sand was important. She enjoyed the Caribbean water and recalled sharing a frozen piña colada with her friend in the sunshine.
The pair mainly wanted time together and a chance to relax, so they skipped some of the ship’s activities. The traveler said there was something to do at any point in the day, and she is already considering another Disney cruise with her children.
Three plans for next time
The traveler booked spa treatments about a week before sailing and found few time slots left. Their massage took place on embarkation day, which she felt helped them shift into vacation mode; it cost $399 for both. Her facial was at 8 a.m., and next time she would choose an afternoon appointment to preserve pool time.
She also packed heavily for pirate night and a Halloween party, leaving little space for souvenirs. She brought home an extra tote bag along with a cruise-themed Mickey shirt, pens and small character keychain toys for her children.
Key points
- The Disney Wish trip offered a child-free break for two friends with seven children between them.
- Included meals, non-alcoholic drinks and 24/7 room service helped make the trip feel easy.
- The traveler recommends booking spa treatments early and scheduling a facial after the morning.
- Overpacking left little room for souvenirs and required an extra tote bag.