Disney Dream

    Disney Cruise Line

    Disney Dream

    Disney Wish

    Disney Cruise Line

    Disney Wish

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    Ship Comparison

    Disney Dream vs Disney Wish

    Disney Dream offers classic elegance and proven family fun, while Disney Wish elevates immersion with modern enchantment and diverse experiences.

    The verdict

    Choosing between Disney Dream and Disney Wish truly depends on the kind of Disney magic you seek. Disney Dream, launched in 2011 and refurbished in 2013, offers a more traditional, yet still vibrant, Disney cruise experience with a touch of classic art deco grandeur. It's a reliable choice where the magic is familiar and consistently delivered. Disney Wish, as the first in its class, pushes the boundaries of immersive storytelling, bringing fantastical worlds to life in new and technologically advanced ways. While it introduces fresh concepts, some guests find its layout more complex and adult-only areas less expansive. Both ships deliver the exceptional Disney service we've come to expect, making either a memorable choice for families, but their distinct personalities cater to different preferences for atmosphere and engagement.

    Choose Disney Dream if…

    The Disney Dream is ideal for families with young children who appreciate a classic Disney cruise experience, a slightly less crowded environment, and a proven track record of engaging activities. It's also a surprisingly good fit for adults seeking refined spaces, as long as they understand the ship's overall family-centric nature.

    Best for

    • Families seeking a classic Disney cruise experience with familiar magic
    • Guests who appreciate traditional elegance and art deco design
    • Cruisers looking for a slightly less crowded ship experience
    • Multigenerational families desiring balanced activities for all ages
    • Adults who want distinct, refined spaces within a family-friendly environment

    Avoid if

    • You prefer the very latest in immersive, high-tech themed experiences
    • You find the location of the Edge tween club on Deck 13 concerning for supervision
    • You desire unlimited alcoholic beverage packages, as Disney does not offer them

    Choose Disney Wish if…

    The Disney Wish is perfectly suited for families eager to experience Disney's latest innovations and immersive storytelling across multiple franchises like Frozen, Marvel, and Star Wars. It appeals to those who prioritize cutting-edge entertainment and don't mind a larger ship with a more intricate layout.

    Best for

    • Families eager for cutting-edge, immersive Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars experiences
    • Guests who prioritize modern design and interactive storytelling
    • Cruisers who enjoy a vibrant, bustling atmosphere with many themed venues
    • Adults seeking unique, themed lounges and specialty dining, even if adult-only areas are smaller
    • Concierge-level guests looking for lavish, themed suites and exclusive perks

    Avoid if

    • You prefer a ship with a straightforward, easy-to-navigate layout
    • You require expansive, easily accessible adults-only pool areas
    • You prefer a buffet dinner option for more casual evening meals
    • You desire unlimited alcoholic beverage packages, as Disney does not offer them

    Overall Vibe

    Disney Dream

    Launched in 2011 and refurbished in 2013, the Disney Dream exudes an elegant, jazzy, old-world luxury that feels both refined and welcoming. It's a ship that masterfully blends classic design with Disney's iconic storytelling, creating a vibrant, character-filled atmosphere across its 14 decks. The vibe here is one of established magic, where familiar comforts meet a touch of glitz, making it a beloved choice for those seeking a proven, enchanting journey. The design leans into subtle Disney hallmarks rather than overt theming in every corner, offering a sophisticated backdrop for family fun.

    Disney Wish

    As the first in its class, the Disney Wish introduces a truly enchanting and vibrant atmosphere, centered around a Cinderella theme that permeates the Grand Hall. Spanning 15 decks, this ship is designed for immersive experiences, bringing beloved stories from Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar to life with cutting-edge technology and detailed theming. The overall vibe is premium and class-focused, offering a fresh, modern take on Disney cruising. While elegant, it prioritizes a fantastical, almost theatrical journey where every space tells a part of a story, appealing to those seeking the latest in themed entertainment.

    Atmosphere & Crowd

    Disney Dream

    The Disney Dream accommodates up to 2,500 passengers with a dedicated crew of 1,458, fostering a genuinely family-friendly and vibrant atmosphere. The crew-to-guest ratio of approximately 1:1.7 ensures attentive service, contributing to a relaxed yet energetic onboard mood. While it offers abundant activities for all ages, distinct adult-only areas like the Quiet Cove Pool and 'The District' of lounges provide serene escapes. The ship feels lively without being overwhelmingly crowded, allowing for a comfortable balance of shared family moments and personal relaxation, appealing to multigenerational groups seeking harmony.

    Disney Wish

    The Disney Wish, designed to carry up to 4,000 passengers, creates a highly immersive and often bustling atmosphere. While the exact crew count isn't disclosed, the ship's design focuses on creating distinct zones for different age groups, aiming to distribute the larger crowd. The vibe is one of constant enchantment and discovery, with elaborate themed spaces drawing guests into various narratives. However, some guests note that the adults-only Quiet Cove area is smaller and less accessible than on previous ships, and the overall layout can feel confusing, requiring more effort to navigate amidst the lively family activity.

    Dining

    Disney Dream

    Dining on the Disney Dream revolves around an innovative rotational system, ensuring guests experience three distinct, complimentary main dining rooms: Animator's Palate, with its interactive Disney animation dinner show; the elegant, transforming Enchanted Garden; and the princess-themed The Royal Palace. For casual bites, Cabanas offers a buffet, and Flo's Cafe provides quick American fare. For an elevated experience, adults can indulge in Northern Italian cuisine at Palo or French gourmet at Remy, both for an additional charge. Eye Scream and Vanellope's Sweets&Treats satisfy sweet cravings, while various cafes offer specialty beverages.

    Disney Wish

    The Disney Wish elevates rotational dining with truly immersive experiences: 1923 offers sophisticated California fusion amidst Disney history, Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure features Nordic-inspired cuisine with live character performances, and Worlds of Marvel provides a futuristic cinematic meal with interactive screens and superhero visits. Marceline Market serves as a high-quality food hall for breakfast and lunch, but not dinner, a notable difference. Quick bites are available at Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods. For adults, Palo Steakhouse offers Italian and premium steaks, and Enchante provides French fine dining, both with an additional fee.

    Entertainment & Nightlife

    Disney Dream

    Entertainment on the Disney Dream is robust, highlighted by the thrilling AquaDuck watercoaster and Broadway-style productions in the Walt Disney Theater. Guests enjoy first-run movies at Buena Vista Theater, frequent Character Experiences, and the interactive Midship Detective Agency game. For adults, 'The District' offers a sophisticated nightlife scene with venues like the Pink Champagne Bar, the sports-themed Pub 687, the elegant Skyline Lounge, and the Evolution Nightclub for dancing. The Pirates in the Caribbean Party culminates in a fireworks display, a signature Disney experience for all ages.

    Disney Wish

    The Disney Wish introduces the AquaMouse, Disney's first themed attraction at sea, offering a thrilling water adventure. The Walt Disney Theater hosts spectacular Broadway-caliber shows, complemented by movies in the intimate Wonderland and Never Land Cinemas. Nightlife for adults is exceptionally themed, featuring the Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge with its intergalactic views, the elegant Nightingale's Piano Bar, and the hidden bourbon joint within Hook's Barbery. Luna Show Lounge hosts diverse activities by day and transforms for adult entertainment by night, ensuring a vibrant and varied entertainment landscape for all passengers.

    Cabins & Suites

    Disney Dream

    The Disney Dream boasts 1,250 cabins, renowned for being some of the largest standard accommodations at sea, offering thoughtful amenities like elevated beds for luggage storage and heavy privacy curtains. Most family cabins feature Disney's signature split-bath design. Inside cabins delight with 'Magical Portholes' showing real-time ocean views with animated surprises. Concierge options range from spacious Verandah Staterooms to the two-story Concierge Dream Tower Suite, inspired by Fantasia, and the luxurious Concierge Royal Suite, providing exclusive access to a private lounge and sun deck.

    Disney Wish

    With 1,250 cabins, the Disney Wish offers well-appointed accommodations, many sleeping up to five guests, and featuring the practical split-bath design in family oceanview and verandah categories. Staterooms are adorned with subtle Disney artwork and Frette 300-thread-count linens. The Concierge Wish Tower Suite, located in the forward funnel, is a sprawling, Moana-themed, two-story marvel. Royal Suites, available in one or two-story configurations, are inspired by Sleeping Beauty and include private verandahs with whirlpool spas. All concierge guests enjoy access to an exclusive lounge and private pool deck.

    Service & Onboard Style

    Disney Dream

    Disney Dream delivers on the promise of unparalleled Disney service, with a friendly and attentive crew ensuring a personalized experience for every guest. The onboard style is characterized by its elegant, art deco design, creating an atmosphere of classic luxury. Public spaces are meticulously maintained, and the interactive 'enchanted art' and social network add a modern touch without detracting from the ship's refined aesthetic. The focus is on traditional hospitality blended with thoughtful Disney touches, making service feel both efficient and genuinely warm.

    Disney Wish

    The Disney Wish continues the tradition of unparalleled Disney service, with a crew dedicated to creating magical moments. The onboard style is defined by its immersive, Cinderella-themed elegance, pushing the boundaries of themed environments. While the service remains a high standard, the ship's larger size and more complex layout mean that guests might need to be more proactive in seeking out specific services or navigating to desired areas. The atmosphere leans heavily into sophisticated storytelling and technological integration, offering a polished yet fantastical experience.

    Best Itineraries

    Disney Dream

    The Disney Dream offers a diverse range of itineraries, frequently sailing 3- and 4-Night Bahamian cruises from Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale, which are perfect for quick getaways. Beyond the Bahamas, it embarks on longer voyages to the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, and seasonally offers European itineraries including British Isles, Belgium, Netherlands, Spain, Norwegian Fjords, and Mediterranean cruises from various ports like Southampton, Barcelona, and Civitavecchia. Its Transatlantic crossings also provide unique, extended sea days for those seeking a longer journey.

    Disney Wish

    The Disney Wish primarily focuses on 3- and 4-Night Bahamian cruises departing from Port Canaveral, making it an excellent choice for short, immersive escapes to the Caribbean. While its main offering is these popular short sailings, it also features select longer European itineraries, including Norwegian Fjords and Mediterranean cruises from ports like Southampton and Barcelona, as well as Eastbound Transatlantic crossings. These longer voyages allow guests to fully experience the ship's extensive offerings and themed environments beyond its common Bahamian routes.

    What reviewers say

    Disney Dream

    4/5

    Disney Dream is a solid choice for family travel, especially for those with young kids, offering superb entertainment and activity options geared to cruisers of all ages. However, short sailings might not leave enough time for all the fun activities offered.

    Disney Wish

    The Disney Wish offers a vibrant and enchanting floating oasis for both kids and adults, despite some navigational challenges and a smaller adults-only area. Its unique design, immersive experiences, and attention to detail create a memorable premium cruise experience.

    Itineraries to compare

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    Disney Dream

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    Disney Wish

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