Welcome aboard the Disney Magic cruise ship, where the magic all began! As the very first vessel in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, the Disney Magic holds a special place in the hearts of both Disney enthusiasts and cruise aficionados. With a history as rich as a fairy tale, this ship has been setting sail on frogtastic journeys since 1998. Come along as we take you on a tour of the Disney Magic, where adventure meets ultimate relaxation and Disney nostalgia on the high seas. Ready to embark on your next cruise vacation? You can now score exclusive Disney Cruise Line savings provided by Undercover Tourist and psst ... there are no booking fees! Plus, we have an exciting offer hoppenin' right now! Get a FREE in-room décor set for all Disney Cruise Line bookings, courtesy of Undercover Tourist, when you book a Disney Cruise Line sailing, for a limited time.
Overview of the Disney Magic
The Disney Magic was the first ship to join the Disney Cruise Line fleet, and it took its maiden voyage in July 1998. This ship’s design pays tribute to the historic luxury ocean liners that used to grace the seas. The primary colors of the ship include black, red and white which are accented by bright yellow lifeboats. These colors were intentionally chosen to match the colors of Mickey Mouse. A fun fact about this color choice by Disney is that they had to get special approval to use the yellow lifeboats because at the time orange was the required lifeboat color under international maritime laws.
Once you step aboard the Disney Magic, you'll be welcomed by an Art Deco-themed interior. Right in the main lobby, you'll be greeted by a statue of Helmsman Mickey Mouse. On the ship's bow, a painting of Sorcerer Mickey takes center stage, with hidden Disney characters within the artwork. On the stern, you'll see a 3-D sculpture of Goofy. He's busy at work, painting the ship's name in a font and color that perfectly matches the Mickey artwork on the ship's front. For the best view of Goofy, be sure to check him out when the ship docks.
The Magic’s most recent refurbishments took place in 2013. The enhancements included the addition of the AquaDunk, a 3-story drop-down water slide, the AquaLab and several remodeled areas including the main atrium. The ship contains 11 decks, has 875 staterooms and can hold up to 2,700 passengers with 950 crew members.
For 2024, Disney Magic's itineraries include The Bahamas, Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean locals. Many of the itineraries even include stops at Disney Cruise Line's two private island destinations — Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
In 2025, the Magic offers Western Caribbean cruises from Galveston and Bahamian cruises from both Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral. While the Disney Magic shares similarities in size and theming with its sister ship, the Disney Wonder, it has its own unique themes and characteristics.
Disney Magic Accommodations
The Disney Magic has 10 different stateroom options, catering to travelers with different preferences and budgets.
- Standard Inside Stateroom: With 184 sq. ft. of space, this room comfortably accommodates up to four guests. You'll find a queen-size bed, a single sleeper sofa, an upper-berth pull-down bed and a porthole mirror.
- Deluxe Inside Stateroom: Slightly larger at 214 sq. ft., this stateroom also sleeps up to four guests. It features a queen-size bed, a single sleeper sofa and an upper-berth pull-down bed. Just like the Standard Inside Stateroom, it comes with a porthole mirror.
- Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom: Offering the same 214 sq. ft. of space, this stateroom accommodates up to four guests. It includes a queen-size bed, a single sleeper sofa and an upper-berth pull-down bed. The standout feature here is the porthole windows, which provide ocean views. Depending on the room, you may have one large porthole or two smaller ones.
- Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah: This room is a generous 268 sq. ft., including a private verandah. It's designed for up to four guests and features a queen-size bed, a single sleeper sofa and an upper-berth pull-down bed. The private balcony is a perfect spot to enjoy those ocean views.
- Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah: With a spacious 304 sq. ft., this stateroom comfortably sleeps up to five guests. It includes a queen-size bed, a single sleeper sofa, a wall pull-down bed and an upper-berth pull-down bed. Plus, you'll have your very own private balcony.
- Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah: Also 304 sq. ft., this stateroom is designed for up to five guests. It features a queen-size bed, a single sleeper sofa, a wall pull-down bed and an upper-berth pull-down bed. On top of the room amenities, guests in this category enjoy exclusive Concierge pre-arrival services and onboard perks. These include access to dedicated areas on the ship, such as the Concierge Lounge.
- Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah: At 614 sq. ft., this suite accommodates up to five guests. It includes a queen-size bed, a double sleeper sofa in the living room and often a pull-down single bed in the living room or bedroom. As with the previous category, guests enjoy signature Concierge pre-arrival services and onboard advantages, including access to dedicated areas such as the Concierge Lounge.
- Concierge 2-Bedroom Suite with Verandah: This expansive suite is 954 sq. ft. and sleeps up to seven guests in two bedrooms. The main bedroom has a queen-sized bed. The second bedroom has two twin beds, a pull-down bed and a double sleeper sofa in the living room. Like other Concierge categories, guests enjoy signature pre-arrival services and onboard exclusives, including access to the Concierge Lounge.
- Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah: The most spacious option at 1,029 sq. ft., this suite sleeps up to seven guests in two bedrooms. The main bedroom boasts a king-sized bed, the second bedroom has two single beds, two pull-down beds and a wall pull-down bed in the living room. As with other Concierge categories, guests enjoy signature pre-arrival services and onboard advantages, including access to exclusive areas such as the Concierge Lounge.
Every stateroom on the Disney Magic cruise ship is equipped with standard amenities. These include a beverage cooler, an in-room safe, a hair dryer and ample under-bed storage space for your suitcases and belongings. Hop over to this post for more tips on choosing the right Disney cruise stateroom for your family.
Recreation and Entertainment Aboard the Disney Magic
Hold onto your Mickey ears, because the Disney Magic is brimming with entertainment options. Whether you're into character meet and greets, love Broadway-style shows or recreation activities, there are so many entertainment options that you'll be hard-pressed to see and do them all.
Family Activities on the Disney Magic
Character Meet and Greets
Character meet and greets are one of the special aspects that sets the Disney Cruise experience above the rest! You'll find Disney characters hoppin' around both indoors and outdoors on the ship's top decks. To keep up with all the excitement, check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for the latest details on when and where you can meet your favorite pals. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for special character outfits throughout the cruise. On Pirate Night, you'll see them all decked out as swashbuckling pirates. And if your cruise takes you to Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, be sure to catch the characters on the island, donning their beach attire.
Shutters Photography
Much like in the Disney Parks, you'll find friendly crew members onboard the ship who are ready to capture special vacation moments for you. They're more than ready to snap professional photos of you with the Disney characters or even gather the group for a memorable photo over dinner. Keep in mind that photo packages come at an additional cost. You have the option to pre-order a digital package before your cruise or buy photos while you're on the ship. This allows you to be fully present and not stress about trying to capture those magical moments.
Shutters Portrait Studios is located on Deck 4., where you can book a 30-minute private photo session. It's a frogtastic way to get those coveted family photos — you'll have the best photos for your Christmas card this year! To secure your spot, be sure to book these sessions in advance.
Disney Cruise Merchandise
There's a treasure trove of exclusive Disney merchandise that you can only find while sailing on a Disney cruise. As Ariel would say, "Look at this stuff. Isn't it neat?" To start your shopping spree, head to Deck 4, where you'll find two merchandise stores: White Caps and Mickey’s Mainsail. In addition, Sea Treasures is on Deck 3, where you'll find additional Disney-themed goodies.
Walt Disney Theatre
Prepare to be wowed by the live Broadway-style shows aboard the Disney Magic. And the best part is they're all included in your cruise package! You can catch these spectacular performances in the Walt Disney Theatre, located on Deck 4. These shows are an absolute must-do, and there are typically two showtimes each night to accommodate guests with different dining schedules.
The featured production is "Tangled: The Musical." The other two shows are "Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story" and "Disney Dreams - An Enchanted Classic." Showtimes vary depending on your cruise itinerary, so be sure to check your Disney Cruise App to see the current showtimes.
Buena Vista Theatre
In addition to the live shows, Disney Magic has a movie theater right onboard. You can catch all the latest flicks at the Buena Vista Theater on Deck 5 — they're also free! What's especially cool is that the theater often showcases brand-new movies that are currently only playing in land-based cinemas. So, if a Disney film premieres during your cruise, you'll have the chance to watch it right onboard.
For some outdoor movie magic, head up to the main pool area on Deck 9, where a large screen plays Disney movies both during the day and at night. Movie nights under the stars? Count us in!
Mickey's Sail-A-Wave Party
Wave goodbye as you kick off your Disney cruise in the most magical way possible — at Mickey's Sail-A-Wave Party! This is a high-energy celebration where you can dance alongside Disney characters and bid adieu to the shore. Tad and Lily love to get their groove on as a DJ pumps out the latest dance mixes. The most exciting part, of course, is when the cruise director counts down to the thrilling horn blast, marking the moment the Disney Magic sets sail from the port.
Disney Magic Pools
The Disney Magic spoils you with not one, not two, but three pool areas to splash and play! First up is the adults-only section at Quiet Cove, a secluded where the adult frogs can find a little quiet and relaxation.
Goofy's Family Pool is the main pool area and is open to guests of all ages. There are also two adjacent whirlpool spas.
Our favorite splash-tastic highlight is the AquaDunk! The AquaDunk is a 3-story drop water slide that starts with a heart-pounding floor drop and ends after cruising through a semi-transparent slide over the edge of the cruise ship — a must-try for those 48" or taller.
The third family pool area on the Disney Magic is complete with the Twist 'n' Spout Slide, the AquaLab and Nephew's Splash Zone. The Twist 'n' Spout Slide is a double-looping waterslide for guests 38" or taller. The AquaLab is a 1,800 sq. ft. water play space, where you'll find playful Huey, Dewey and Louie theming, complete with leaky pipes and a jolly Donald Boiler.
At night, when the pools close, an automated floor covers them which makes extra space for deck parties and shows like the Disney Magic's “Pirates in the Caribbean” show and deck party.
Wide World of Sports Deck
Deck 10 on the Disney Magic is a sports lover's paradise, featuring basketball courts and ping-pong tables. And let's just be honest ... it's not just about the games here. This deck also treats you to breathtaking panoramic views of the open sea.
In addition, you can try your hand at shuffleboard or take on a leisurely jog or walk along the 1/3-mile lap running track located on Deck 4.
Lounges
Lounges on the Disney Magic, such as D-Lounge on Deck 4 and Fathoms on Deck 3, are a buzz with scheduled activities almost around the clock — from seminars and trivia games to crafts and more. The schedule of events will be posted in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app.
Adventures for the Tadpoles, Tweens and Teens
"it’s a small world" nursery!
The "it's a small world" nursery! on the Disney Magic cruise ship is designed for children ages 6 months to 3 years. Staffed by trained Disney childcare professionals, it offers safe and engaging childcare for young ones. The nursery is decorated with Disney-themed elements and provides age-appropriate toys and activities. Parent froggies, you can have peace of mind while your little ones are cared for in this secure and supervised space, allowing you time to enjoy the other ship amenities. Advance reservations are required which can be made online, and there is an additional cost for the nursery.
Disney's Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab
The youth clubs onboard are a kid's dream come true. The clubs are designed for children ages 3 to 10 years old and are located on Deck 5. You can either pre-register (which we highly recommend) or register once you're onboard. These immersive, kids-only areas are among the ship's most creatively themed spaces. And sorry, but no grown-up frogs are allowed! In fact, adults can only visit during scheduled open houses (or to drop off and pick up your kiddos). Disney's Oceaneer Club youth counselors host story time, games and crafts, along with character visits and interactive games. The themed rooms within the club include the Marvel Super Hero Academy, Andy's Room, Disney Junior and Pixie Hollow inspired by Tinker Bell and her fairy friends.
Edge
Located on Deck 9, Edge is tailor-made for tweens ages 11 to 14 years old. This space was created to be their special hangout, where they can make new friends, engage in games, participate in scavenger hunts and just have their own slice of paradise on the ship. Trained youth counselors host a variety of activities in Edge, but tweens are also welcome to simply chill out and socialize on their own terms.
Vibe
Found on Deck 11, Vibe is exclusively for guests ages 14 to 17 years old. This teens-only space offers a cool loft-inspired vibe with a coffee bar serving up nonalcoholic beverages and smoothies. Teens can unwind and enjoy video games, board games and TVs in this trendy area designed just for them.
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
Just like you'll find at each of the Disney parks, young princes and princesses are pampered and made to feel like true Disney royalty. Talented Fairy Godmother's Apprentices work their magic, offering a variety of royal transformations, from dazzling gowns and accessories to royal knight and even pirate makeovers.
Experiences for Grown-Up Frogs
Disney cruises offer something for everyone, not just the little ones! Whether you're planning an adults-only getaway or bringing along the whole family, you'll find plenty of opportunities just for the adults.
Palo, the exclusive adults-only restaurant on the Disney Magic, is an elegant dining option just for guests ages 18 and older. While it comes at an additional cost of $50 per person for either brunch or dinner, we think the experience is well worth it. We enjoyed the multi-course dinner and, of course, tried the heavenly chocolate souffle for dessert. Palo is a sought-after experience, so be sure to make an advance reservation. Advance reservations can be made once your balance is paid in full and your booking window opens. Visit our detailed guide to learn more about your Castaway Club membership stats.
Quiet Cove is the adults-only area on Deck 9 of the Disney Magic. Here, it's all about relaxation and tranquility. You'll find a spacious main pool, two soothing whirlpools and an abundance of comfy seats and lounge chairs. If you're in the mood for a drink, look no further than Signals Pool Bar conveniently located right next to Quiet Cove Pool. This adults-only area is also home to Cove Café, which offers coffee and tea options during the day and transforms into a cozy spot for cocktails and wine at night. Don't miss the chance to try the specialty lattes, complete with a foamy Mickey or Disney character.
Adults-Only Beverage Tastings
A popular activity on the Dinsey Magic is the beverage tasting classes. To secure your spot, we recommend making advanced reservations, as these sessions tend to fill up fast. If there are open slots, you can also book these during your cruise through the Disney Cruise Line app or at the Guest Services desk. The lineup of drink seminars varies depending on your cruise itinerary, but you can typically expect options such as champagne tasting, beer sampling, chocolate and liquor tastings, and even mixology classes. Leap over to our guide on all the adult-exclusive Disney Cruise extras you'll want to try on your next sail.
Bars and Lounges
There are several different bars and lounges scattered throughout the Disney Magic ship, each with its own unique theming and atmosphere. Here's an overview of what you can expect:
- Keys (Deck 3): A classic piano bar themed after the Golden Age of Hollywood. There's nightly live entertainment and a full bar.
- Soul Cat Lounge (Deck 3): Inspired by the Disney movie "Soul," the swanky spot is located on Deck 3. Here, you can enjoy live jazz music and sample New York City-style cocktails.
- O’Gills Pub (Deck 3): An Irish pub decorated with rich, dark wood interiors. O'Gills has a quaint atmosphere complemented by ocean views through portholes.
- Fathoms (Deck 3): By day, this space hosts trivia and seminars, and by night, it transforms into a hoppin' bar with music and dancing.
- Signals (Deck 9): An outdoor bar located in the Quiet Cove area. Grab a drink and unwind by the adult pool!
- D-Lounge (Deck 4): Primarily used for activities suitable for guests of all ages, you'll also find a bar and plenty of seating here.
On Deck 9 of the Disney Magic, you'll find the Senses Spa and Salon. The spa offers treatments, from massages to invigorating body wraps and refreshing facials. Additionally, there are professional grooming services available, including teeth whitening, manicures, pedicures and haircuts.
The Rainforest Room within the spa features saunas and rain showers that create atmospheres like a tropical thunderstorm, offering a serene escape from the everyday. Access to the Rainforest Room can be purchased separately.
Want to stay active during your cruise? Then pay a visit to the Fitness Center, conveniently located within the spa. It's complimentary to use and is equipped with weight machines, treadmills and stationary bikes — all with stunning views of the ocean. For personalized fitness, personal trainers are also available for an additional cost.
To make the most of your spa and fitness experience, some services, such as massages, can be booked in advance. Passes to the Rainforest Room can be booked once you're on board, subject to availability.
Dining Aboard the Disney Magic
When it comes to dining on the Disney Magic, you're in for a culinary adventure, and the best part is that most of the dining options are included with your cruise fare. Let's take a quick tour of your dining choices!
Rotational Dining
The Disney Magic offers three rotational dining options, and they're all sure to make your taste buds leap for joy! The rotational dining is a unique (and delicious) way to enjoy meals on your cruise. Instead of dining in the same restaurant every night, you'll rotate through different themed restaurants, each with its own menu and theming. This way, you get to experience a variety of culinary settings during your cruise, all while a dedicated team of servers accompanies you.
For dinner, the Disney Magic typically has two dining times: Main Dining and Second Dining. The exact times may vary depending on your itinerary, but generally, main seating starts around 5:45 p.m., while second seating begins around 8:15 p.m. Once you're aboard, the Disney Cruise Navigator app will list the order of your dining locations, showing which restaurant you visit on which night.
Animator's Palate: This dining experience is a fan favorite. It's a magical tribute to Disney animation, where the dining room transforms from black and white to full color during your meal. You'll also enjoy entertaining elements along the way, such as a surprise visitor to conclude your meal. ;)
Rapunzel’s Royal Table: Join in the celebration of Rapunzel's birthday at this "Tangled"-themed restaurant. The show features live performances by Rapunzel, Flynn and other beloved characters.
Lumiere’s: Inspired by "Beauty and the Beast," this restaurant has a beautiful mural along the back wall and elegant rose-themed lighting. While there's no entertainment tied to this spot, the ambiance and delicious French cuisine make it just as fun as the other two rotational dining restaurants.
In addition to the rotational dining restaurants, you'll have access to 24-hour room service. Room service is absolutely free (though alcoholic beverages do come with an additional cost and you'll want to factor in a tip). For added convenience, the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app lists the room service menu.
If you're an early riser or simply want to enjoy breakfast on your private verandah, then you'll definitely want to take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Be sure to fill out the breakfast order form the night before, specifying your breakfast choices and the time you'd like it delivered in the morning. You can also use the in-room phone to place an order. The breakfast menu has a slightly more limited selection than lunch or dinner, but it's great for a continental-style breakfast and those early coffee cravings.
Deck 9 Quick-Service Options
Located on Deck 9, Cabanas offers a hearty breakfast and lunch buffet. The breakfast buffet includes everything from made-to-order omelets, pancakes, Mickey-shaped waffles, breakfast meats, pastries, cereals, oatmeal and fruit (just to list a few!) The lunch spread offers the infamous chicken tenders, hamburgers, wraps, salads and even fancier options such as salmon, steak and international cuisine.
Daisy’s De-Lites: Craving something fresh? Daisy's De-Lites has a selection of salads, sandwiches and bowls. Since the offerings change daily, you'll want to swing by and see what delightful surprises they have in store.
Duck-in Diner: For classic American comfort food, look no further than Duck-in Diner. Here, you can enjoy hot dogs, burgers, chicken tenders and even mouthwatering shawarma.
Pinocchio’s Pizzeria: Pizza lovers, rejoice! Pinocchio’s Pizzeria serves up a variety of pizza flavors, available by the slice. It's the perfect place to grab a quick, satisfying bite and stays open until about 11 p.m. each night.
Eye Scream Treats: And for those with a sweet tooth, Eye Scream Treats will satisfy your monstrous cravings. Here, you can snag unlimited soft-serve ice cream almost around the clock. We noticed that this was also open until about 11 p.m.
Additional Tips for Sailing on the Disney Magic
Before you set out on the open seas, here are a few more things to consider:
- Check-In Online Early: Make your embarkation process smoother by checking in online on either the Disney Cruise Line website or in the Cruise Line Navigator app ahead of time. This helps you avoid long lines and ensures a quicker start to your cruise adventure.
- Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App: The Disney Cruise app will serve as your lifeline. The app also has a fun countdown leading up to your sail date. Once on board, the app becomes your go-to resource, listing the daily activity schedules, dining plans, restaurant menus and more. You can "heart" activities that interest you, and the app will send reminders when it's time to attend. Plus, there's a convenient chat feature that allows you to stay connected with your travel party and even communicate with Guest Services.
- Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On: Pack items such as travel documents, swimsuits, sunscreen, medications and any valuables in a carry-on bag. The crew will deliver your luggage to your stateroom later in the afternoon. Having these essentials on hand ensures you can start enjoying the ship right away. Check out our ultimate Disney Cruise packing list for more tips!
- Book Port Excursions in Advance: Planning ahead pays off when it comes to port excursions. Popular activities can fill up quickly. For Disney Port Adventures, you'll want to book as soon as possible based on your Castaway Club membership.
- Internet Service: The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app is free to download and allows you to access all the cruise activities and use the chat feature without any charges. However, if you plan to use the internet for sending emails or using social media, you'll want to purchase an internet package. Internet packages vary depending on how much data you plan to use. For specific details and pricing, check the Navigator app or visit the Guest Services desk once you're on board.
And there you have it, the Disney Magic — a ship that truly lives up to its name! Have you sailed on Disney Magic before? Let us know in the comments below!
Related: All the Wondrous Details of the Disney Wonder Cruise Ship
Related: Your Complete Guide to Disney Cruise Food
Hoppy planning!
