The holiday season is often romanticized with images of cozy fireplaces, snowmen, and gifts under a tree. Snowfall and Santa’s arrival are central to our holiday mindset. But there’s something special about setting those traditions aside for a while and embarking on one of Disney’s Very Merrytime cruises before Santa’s sleigh takes off.
If you’ve been thinking about taking a Disney cruise, there are a few things to expect during this time of year. While the classic cruise experience remains, the holiday season adds a festive touch with special features. You’ll be rockin’ around the Christmas tree while also sailing over the waves of the deep blue sea.
HALLS (ERR… DECKS) THAT ARE DECKED
Throughout the ship, many areas are beautifully decorated for Christmas. The atrium, common spaces, and some restaurants are adorned with evergreen garlands, ribbons, Christmas trees, and sparkling lights. There’s even a life-size gingerbread house to admire. Christmas music fills the air through the ship’s intercom system, reminding you that the holiday countdown is in full swing—even as you enjoy the warmth of tropical temperatures.
It’s not just the crew decking the halls—your fellow passengers join in too. Walking by staterooms, you’ll see doors adorned with holiday magnets and shimmering garland. Instead of traditional fish extenders, you’ll find stockings hung with care, adding a festive twist to this cruising tradition.
DISNEY CHARACTERS IN THEIR HOLIDAY BEST
There are plenty of creatures stirring aboard the ship—especially the mice! Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their pals are excited to greet everyone, dressed festively in sweaters and scarves for photos. When they’re not bundled up in cozy hats and mittens, you might spot them in classic Christmas plaids or formal holiday attire. Each appearance offers the perfect chance to snap a memorable family holiday photo.
Keep your eyes peeled—there’s another familiar face you might spot onboard. Santa doesn’t need a chimney to make his grand entrance. On a special day during your Very Merry voyage, he’ll be waiting in the atrium to hear everyone’s Christmas wishes. Check the daily cruise itinerary in the Disney Cruise Line app for times and locations where you can meet Santa and other characters to create your own magical Christmas memories.
SPECIALTY HOLIDAY BEVERAGES
There are more festive drink options for the adults on board than just eggnog. Disney Cruise Line offers special holiday cocktails this time of year. How about a Christmas Cookie Cocktail? Or perhaps a “flowery” Poinse-tini to get you in the holiday spirit? Ask any bartender onboard for the seasonal options or the Drink of the Day if you’re looking for another way to stay warm during your winter cruise.
GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING AND CHRISTMAS CRAFTS
Craft time takes on a festive flair during the holiday season. You’ll have the chance to create Christmas cards and design your own stocking. These activities, often held in the lounges during the day, are especially popular with kids who love getting creative with the holiday spirit.
Gingerbread house decorating is a fun, festive activity available for an extra fee. You can unleash your creativity in a delightful mess of gingerbread, icing, and gumdrops with all the materials provided. Be sure to book this early in the cruise—your creation will fill your room with a wonderful aroma, and you’ll have more time to enjoy nibbling before customs requires you to part with it.
CHRISTMAS PARTIES GALORE
It doesn’t quite feel like the most wonderful time of the year without a few parties, and Disney Cruise Line delivers. In addition to the usual Pirate Night celebration, everyone comes together for Mickey and Minnie’s Holiday Party by the pool. With activities like candy cane limbo and plenty of dancing, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite.
One event you won’t want to miss is the tree lighting ceremony, held on the first evening of each cruise. Live performers sing classic Christmas songs, and Disney characters join the fun in the atrium. After greeting and entertaining the crowd with a festive dance, they invite a child to help light the ship’s towering tree, which spans several decks. It’s a magical experience you’ll find truly inspiring. Be sure to arrive early—whether on the ground floor or from a balcony view—as space fills up quickly!
CHRISTMAS ON DISNEY CASTAWAY CAY
Christmas Island is a reality on Disney’s private Bahamian island, Castaway Cay, which most Disney cruise itineraries visit. During the holiday season, Castaway Cay is transformed with festive tropical touches, adding even more magic to your trip. A towering Christmas tree, snowmen dressed in island attire, and a tram sporting antlers are just a few of the delightful sights. It’s a perfect blend of winter wonder and tropical breezes, warming you both inside and out. We can’t wait to see what Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point looks like during the holiday season!
Disney Cruise Line’s Very Merrytime cruise is a holiday adventure everyone should enjoy at least once. Next time Santa’s making his list, tell him you’re aiming to be both “nautical” and nice!
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