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Whether you scrape your pennies together or it’s a drop in the bucket for you, a Disney Cruise is the trip of a lifetime! It’s three vacations rolled into one — a Disney trip, a luxurious cruise and a tropical escape. Each of the Disney Cruise Line's ships offers something spectacular, and the Disney Dream is no exception. We're here to give you a peek at this splendid ship, from dining to entertainment and so much more. And now, if you want to set sail on the Disney Dream, you can find exclusive Disney Cruise Line savings provided by Undercover Tourist! 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.
Why a Disney Cruise?
When it comes to cruising, Disney really stands out. We know the name is synonymous with quality. The quality of the decor, the food, the service, the room space, the cleanliness, the extras — it’s superb in every way. For more information about the Disney Cruise Line, hop over to our full post.
Disney Dream Facts
The Disney Dream was built in 2010 and refurbished in 2020. Following the 2024 summer season in Europe, the Disney Dream is set to receive some exciting updates this fall upon its arrival at its home port in Fort Lauderdale. Guests can look forward to enhancements such as an updated Oceaneer Club, a brand-new funnel suite, a new concierge lounge and a revitalized spa.
It can hold up to 3,500 passengers and 1,400 crew members. The Disney Dream sails out of Fort Lauderdale, and the typical route for the ship is three to five days to the Bahamas or Western Caribbean. This summer the Dream has itineraries in the Mediterranean, Western Europe, Norway, Spain and the British Isles. Almost all the fall itineraries include a stop at the new island destination, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
The Disney Dream contains 14 decks of pure magic! Disney Dream offers a wide range of accommodation options for every individual's needs. Here is a breakdown of the luxurious staterooms.
There are ten different types of staterooms aboard the Disney Dream:
- Standard Inside Stateroom is 169 sq. ft. and made to occupy two to four guests. These rooms contain a queen-size bed or two twin beds and a convertible sofa. Some staterooms come with a wall pull-down bed.
- Deluxe Inside Stateroom is 204 sq. ft and sleeps three to four guests. The room configuration includes a queen bed, single sleeper sofa and upper-berth pull-down bed and includes a small porthole window.
- Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom is 204 sq. ft. and sleeps two to four guests with a queen-size bed or two twin beds and a single convertible sofa. Some staterooms have a wall pull-down bed. There is a small porthole with an obstructed, limited view of the ocean depending on the deck.
- Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom is 241 sq. ft. with an occupancy of two to five guests. This room contains a queen-size bed or two twin beds and a single convertible sofa. Some staterooms have a wall pull-down bed or upper berth pull-down bed and a large porthole window with an ocean view.
- Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom w/Navigator's Verandah is 246 sq. ft. including a verandah (which is just a fancy word for balcony). It sleeps up to four guests with a queen-size bed or two twin beds and a single convertible sofa; some rooms have an upper pull-down bed.
- Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is 299 sq. ft. with a verandah and sleeps up to five guests. The room includes a queen-size bed or two twin beds and a single convertible sofa.
- Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is 246 sq. ft., including the balcony verandah that sleeps up to four guests in a queen-size bed or two twin beds and a single convertible sofa, plus an upper pull-down bunk beds.
- Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is 306 sq. ft, including the private outdoor balcony. The room sleeps five and includes either a queen bed, sleeper sofa and upper berth pull-down bed.
- Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah sleeps five and is 622 sq. feet., including the verandah. The sleeping arrangements include 1 bedroom with a queen bed, a double sleeper sofa and a wall pull-down single bed in the living room.
- Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah is a whopping 1,781 sq. ft and sleeps five. The stateroom is made up of a separate bedroom, living room, open dining area, wet bar and walk-in closet. There is a queen bed, wall pull-down double bed and a single bed in the living room.
- New! Dream Tower Suite (available fall 2024) is a two-story funnel suite themed to "Fantasia" and "The Sorcerer's Apprentice."
- Want to compare rooms or see a deck plan for the Disney Dream? Jump here!
Whether you’re sailing as a couple or a family, you'll have no trouble finding accommodations that are perfect for your crew! You can now book your next cruise through Undercover Tourist at discount — now that's dreamy!
What Is There to Do on the Disney Dream?
You will never be bored on a Disney Cruise — that's for certain! There is so much fun to be had, but we have to warn you ... you won’t be able to do it all on your first trip! And that is actually a good thing! It ensures that there will always be new things to experience, see and do on your next sail. And trust us, you will definitely want to return to sail with the Disney Cruise Line again and again.
Family Activities on the Disney Dream
The Disney Dream offers an almost endless amount of activities for families. From pools, waterslides, games, shows and kid clubs, there's something for everyone in the family to do and enjoy.
One of our personal favorites is the classic Disney character meet and greets. On the Disney Dream, you have the opportunity to meet fan-favorite Disney characters. There are princesses such as Cinderella and Ariel, as well as Mickey Mouse and his friends. You can take pictures with them, give hugs and make special memories just as you would in the parks. We think meeting these characters makes your Disney cruise really memorable. No Disney vacation is complete without that family photo with Mickey Mouse and friends!
Speaking of photos, Shutters, located on Deck 4, is a professional photo studio for family photos that toadally gives glamour shot vibes — but with a Disney touch. These photography sessions need to be booked ahead of time and come with an extra charge. The photo sessions are fun and a unique way to make memories while creating a one-of-a-kind souvenir that you can bring home to commemorate your trip.
If you like shopping for exclusive merchandise and souvenir hunting, you're in luck! There are so many places to shop on board. Check out Deck 3 where you can shop 'til you drop!
For nightly family entertainment, be sure to view the live Broadway-style shows onboard the Disney Dream. Currently, the three running shows are; Be Our Guest, The Golden Mickeys and Disney's Believe. Typically, the live shows have two showtimes each evening so everyone can attend and experience these musical productions. Showtimes are listed in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app.
Movie buffs, rejoice! There is a huge movie theater onboard. The whole family can watch movies that are currently playing in theaters on land, and some classic Disney favorites, as well. Movie showings are also completely free, but some concessions are at an extra cost.
If you feel like exploring and going on an adventure, then you NEED to try the free ship-wide scavenger hunt! The start location is on Deck 5 midship. Here, you can activate your map, grab a pencil and start “sleuthing!" The Midship Detective Agency is an interactive attraction that kids and adults will love doing together. The game revolves around Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy helping Disney characters solve different cases.
There are a few cases to solve so you can do it multiple times to try and solve them all. The clues will lead you to paintings that have secret interactive objects. The paintings by the elevator that you’ve been admiring all cruise — those are actually interactive screens for the scavenger hunt mystery! Who knew? Each special painting will transform and give the next clue. Your family will have a blast running around the ship and solving each case. Bonus! It also makes a great way to get to know the ship and explore.
Some of the ultimate must-do activities on any Disney ship are centered around the pool areas. On the Disney Dream, you'll discover two big pools for families. There is also a small Mickey-themed waterslide, a Nemo-themed splash pad area for the little ones and a waterslide that spans the entire length of the ship called the AquaDuck. It’s a froggerific ride that gives you a very different view of the ship and sea! There is a height requirement of 42 inches and kids under 7 years old must be accompanied to ride with someone 14 years or older (who also meets the height requirement).
The pool area deck has a massive TV screen that plays Disney movies throughout both the day and night. It’s a great place to come and relax before bed to enjoy the ocean breeze. The pools do close at night, but the deck transforms into a flat walking area with chairs.
Does your family have a competitive edge? Then be sure to check out Goofy's Sports Deck located on Deck 13. The mini-golf is brightly-themed and a ton of fun. In addition to mini-golf, there's an enclosed basketball court that's perfect for shooting some free throws or a friendly game of HORSE. You'll discover a shuffleboard alongside the running track on Deck 4 for even more family fun.
Also located on Deck 4, is the D Lounge. This is where many scheduled family-friendly events take place. You can participate in bingo, trivia, crafts and so much more! Most activities are free, but the games that have big prizes will require a buy-in. For example, bingo requires you to purchase cards with the potential to win hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Ready to shake your groove thing? You'll find the Deck Parties on Deck 11. In fact, a new dance party with a 90s throwback feel, Mickey's Color Spin Dance Party, debuted this summer on select Disney Dream sailings.
Speaking of parties, the Sailing Away Deck Party is a family-friendly event that happens on Deck 11 and takes place when the ship is leaving port. There is singing, dancing, ticker tape and fireworks. This is a frogtastic way to kick off your cruise after boarding and taking part in all of the safety drills.
Pirate Night is another family deck party, but this one lasts all night! On select itineraries, Pirate Night starts at dinner when everyone is encouraged to dress up like a pirate or simply wear the bandannas that are provided in your room. The cabin staff will leave pirate bandannas and gold coins to help get you in the swashbuckling mood. On Deck 11, the pools are covered during the party and there are free pirate-themed games, a pirate show featuring Mickey Mouse, a musical sing-along and a massive fireworks show to end the night.
In addition, the Disney Dream fireworks show has been reimagined with new music and spectacular choreographed pyrotechnics. Make note — the fireworks show, “Ever After,” is a CAN'T-MISS!
Kid-Only Activities on the Disney Dream
First, let’s talk about childproofing. Breathe in ... breathe out, parental frogs! There's no need to worry about your kids breaking anything on this beautiful ship. Despite the pristine decor, everything within kids' reach in the staterooms and common areas is toadally safe.
For the littlest tadpoles, there is an amazing nursery located on Deck 5, right next to the Oceaneer Club. "it's a small world" nursery! is for children ages 6 months to 3 years old. Just like the name implies, the entire space is themed after the "it’s a small world" attraction in the Disney theme parks. Your baby will be well cared for here as every caretaker is highly trained in infant safety. Reservations can be made in advance on a first-come, first-served basis (based on your Castaway Club membership stats). There is an additional fee for nursery care.
Disney's Oceaneer Club is an interactive play area for ages 3 to 10 years old. This part of the ship is like a theme park all on its own. The playtime is led by multiple Oceaneer staff members who facilitate storytime, dress-up, character visits, interactive games, themed play areas and even arts and crafts. The themed rooms include Star Wars: Millennium Falcon, Andy’s room (from "Toy Story"), Disney Infinity Game Room and Tinker Bell's Pixie Hollow.
This fall, a high-tech lab created by the Worldwide Engineering Brigade (WEB) will be a new addition to the Oceaneer Club. At the Marvel WEB Workshop, tadpoles can test new suit prototypes for Spider-Man and other heroes, and train using WEB technology to fight off enemies. Keep a lookout, you might even receive a visit from some Avenger mentors!
Edge is a preteen club area that caters to ages 11 to 14. It is an interactive space with video games, a dance floor, karaoke, crafts, arcade, sports and lounge areas. The Disney Dream counselors host many daily activities that will get even your shyest tween to warm up and have a great time. As you may have guessed, our resident tween, Tad, spends most of his time here.
As of fall 2024, Edge will be moving to Deck 5 and will receive some fun new updates. It will have access to an outdoor deck with a ball pit and games just for Edge and Vibe. Inside, there will be a lounge and dance floor for dance parties!
Vibe is specifically for ages 14 to 17 years old. Here, your teen frog can find a smoothie bar, a soda fountain, a sundeck, an arcade, a DJ booth, a dance floor, a coffee area and even a lounge area with TVs. This is an amazing place for teens to get off their phones and socialize in a space that's designed just for them.
Adults-Only Activities on the Disney Dream
Sometimes mom or dad, or even grandpa and grandma need some time to themselves. Don’t feel guilty for needing a little time away from your children (or everyone else’s children)! Adult frogs, you're in for a real treat! There are spectacular adults-only areas on the Disney Dream that you won't want to miss.
You'll find two adults-only restaurants on the Disney Dream. Remy is a French restaurant themed after the movie “Ratatouille," so, of course, everyone's favorite little chef is the namesake. There is a crystal statue of Remy hidden on the chandelier as you enter the dining room and the pattern on the seating is a silhouette of Remy and his brother. It is one of the only restaurants at sea with three Michelin stars! You must book a reservation ahead of time and this menu is not included in the complimentary rotational dining; it is an extra charge.
Keep in mind that there is a dress code, so pack accordingly. Formalwear is suggested. Men if you frogot a jacket or dress shoes, ask the Maitre d' — you can rent a suit and shoes for the night for free!
Palo is an Italian restaurant that is famous for its multiple-course brunch and romantic dinner. With a gorgeous view of the ocean, explore the menu and be transported to the coastal waters of Venice. This adults-only restaurant also has a dress code and requires a reservation.
Meridian is a half-indoor, half-outdoor lounge that is located between the two adult-only restaurants on Deck 12. The theme of this bar is “travel” with luggage straps on the booths, passport-stamped wallpaper and themed drinks.
The Quiet Cove is the adults-only pool area on Deck 11. It has multiple pools and hot tubs. There are countless lounge chairs for sunbathing, plus shaded areas that make for a perfect respite from the sun. Grab a cocktail or two at the poolside bars that are also located in this area of the ship.
If you're looking for some hoppin' nightlife, the Disney Dream does not disappoint! There are chic nightclubs and bars located on almost every deck of the ship! Here’s a list of the nightclubs and bars available:
- Pink: Wine and champagne Bar - Deck 4
- Evolution (adult exclusive dance club) - Deck 4
- Bon Voyage (Cocktail Bar) - Deck 3
- Vista Cafe - Deck 4
- Meridian Bar - Deck 12
- Skyline Bar (Cocktail Bar) - Deck 4
- Frozone Treats (Pool Bar) - Deck 11
- Waves (Pool Bar) - Deck 12
- 687 Lounge - Deck 4
- The District Lounge - Deck 4
- Outlook - Deck 14
- Cove Café - Deck 11
- Currents Bar - Deck 13
Wanna feel like a million bucks? Then book a spa treatment at Senses Spa! This spa offers massages, facials, a hair salon, a juice and smoothie bar and a nail salon. Here you can relax in the tranquil rainforest-themed aromatherapy steam rooms or sauna. Complimentary non-alcoholic drinks, plush sandals and robes are included during your treatment. Starting in fall 2024, the spa will have a revamped check-in area and new treatment rooms. Ahh, bliss!
If you're looking to stay in "ship-shape," then be sure to take advantage of the abundant recreation and fitness activities aboard the Disney Dream. You'll find the state-of-the-art fitness center on Deck 9 that offers spectacular views of the ocean. The fitness center houses the standard equipment you'd expect at a typical gym such as treadmills, ellipticals and weights. Complimentary fitness classes are offered at various times throughout the length of your voyage. Personalized fitness services are also available with an additional fee. The jogging trail on Deck 4 is perfect for hitting your daily step count goal, even when floating out on the big blue sea.
What Is There to Eat Aboard the Disney Dream?
One of the best parts of the Disney Dream is the food! There are so many places to grab a quick bite, nibble on a snack or dine in refined, world-class restaurants. Lets take a culinary journey to explore the many food options abroad the Disney Dream.
- Remy – Adults-only French cuisine
- Palo – Adults-only Italian cuisine
- Cabanas Buffet – This buffet is massive and has something for every diet and preference. It is open for both breakfast and lunch.
- Animator's Palate – Family dining that is animation-themed (complimentary rotational dining)
- Royal Court – Family dining in the elegant atmosphere of Cinderella's Castle (complimentary rotational dining)
- Enchanted Garden – Family dining in Versailles gardens-style surroundings. As the sun sets, the ceiling changes into stars and the flower lighting fixtures close. (complimentary rotational dining)
- 24-Hour Room Service – Free room service around the clock!
- Flo's Cafe – On Deck 11, there is a grill featuring pizza, burgers, hot dogs and french fries.
- Ice Cream – All-you-can-eat soft-serve machines are located on Deck 11. Here you can grab an ice cream cone at just about any time of the day.
- New! A new Cantina serving tacos, burritos and bowls will be available this fall. More details coming soon!
- Vanellope's Sweets and Treats – This cute gourmet ice cream and candy shop has the best milkshakes. Treats here are at an additional cost.
- Cove Cafe – This little cafe is tucked away in the adults-only section. Specialty liquors with coffee are served here.
- Preludes – Offers fresh popcorn, candy and drinks.
- Drink Stations - On Deck 11, you'll find the soda, water, coffee and tea stations that never close. Unlike other cruise lines, soda and juice are always included throughout your trip.
Aboard the Disney Dream, guests are treated to an exceptional dining experience known as rotational dining. This innovative and yummy concept allows passengers to savor a variety of cuisines in a series of themed restaurants throughout their voyage. Each night, you will rotate to a different dining venue, accompanied by a serving team that travels with you. From the elegant Art Deco-inspired surroundings of the Animator's Palate to the enchanting Royal Palace and magical Enchanted Garden, the rotational dining experience makes every meal a new adventure. On each night of your cruise, you will be assigned a specific restaurant and table for your stateroom. This restaurant selection rotates every night, but your table number will remain the same.
All About the Disney-Owned Private Island, Castaway Cay
In case you didn’t know, the best port of call or stop on a Disney Dream cruise is the Disney-owned Bahamian island of Castaway Cay. This little island is the trifecta of adventure, relaxation and Disney magic. It’s the most perfect temperature all year round, the sea breeze is fantastic and the vibes feel like pure paradise!
This Caribbean island is a classic island retreat. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is so soft and white. The crystal-clear water is nothing like we've ever seen before!
Cookie's BBQ and Cookie's Too BBQ hosts an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch that runs from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The food offerings include bbq ribs, rotisserie chicken, honey bbq seared salmon, hamburgers, coleslaw, potato salad, sliced fruit and even more of that delicious soft-serve ice cream!
While you are relaxing on the beach, you can order drinks from the abundant wandering waiters. Our tadpoles tried the strawberry smoothies and they were divine. I might have snuck a sip (or five)!
If you're not a "sit on the beach and relax" kinda person — there’s plenty to do! How about a ride down one of the big waterslides over at Pelican Plunge? You'll need to swim to this water park because it's out in open water! Leap over to our full Castaway Cay guide for all the details.
Additional activities include the bike trail with rentable bikes, a running trail, sand volleyball sports area, snorkeling and splash pads for little ones, just to name a few.
Too much action? Then maybe a little retail therapy will do the trick? You'll discover unique shops around the island with plenty of Castaway Cay-themed merchandise, apparel and souvenirs to check out.
If you're looking for a bit more peace and quiet, then consider hoppin' on the tram to Serenity Bay — the 18 and up adult-only beach. Enjoy a morning yoga class, an open-air massage or a cocktail while relaxing in a hammock next to the lapping shoreline.
Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
Disney's new island destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is now open! Starting in the fall of 2024 and continuing in 2025, the Dream's Bahamian itineraries include a stop at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point — with some itineraries visiting both Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point.
Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is Disney Cruise Line's newest private destination in The Bahamas, located on the island of Eleuthera. Designed with sustainability and environmental stewardship in mind, this tropical retreat offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and a host of family-friendly activities. When visiting the island, you can enjoy snorkeling, hiking, interactive Disney character meets and cultural experiences such as the Rush! A Junkanoo Celebration. (Plus, a whole lot more!)
The island also features family beaches as well as the adult-exclusive Serenity Bay. The food options are abundant, featuring Bahamian-inspired cuisines such as rice bowls, lime-marinated grilled snapper, island curry and grilled favorites like BBQ ribs, burgers and hot dogs. There are three main dining spots — True-True BBQ, True-True Too BBQ and Serenity Bay BBQ. Additionally, you'll find several bars scattered around the beach areas. Be sure to try the Eleuthera Euphoria, a rum drink made with DOLE Whip.
For more information, visit our tropical guide to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
Best Tips for Sailing on the Disney Dream Cruise Ship
Here are a few packing and preparation tips that we've learned from cruising experiences.
- Pack a small bag to carry your things around the ship and on the island ports of call stops! Leap to our ultimate Disney cruise packing list for more tips.
- No need to pack a hairdryer — there is one located in every stateroom.
- Remember that there is a laundry room with washers, dryers, soap (for a small fee) and an iron/ironing board on every deck.
- Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app ahead of time and connect it to your stateroom. This app will have your reservations, your itinerary and most importantly, it has a messaging feature. The message chat function will help you communicate with other people in your party when there is no signal. It’s easy and FREE.
- Pack a sweater, the weather at sea can be unpredictable and quite windy when the sun goes down.
Is There an Internet Connection on the Disney Dream?
Yes and no! As soon as you start sailing, turn off your cell data to avoid international fees. Then you can connect to the Disney cruise Wi-Fi to use the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. This is free of charge.
If you'll need to access your email or complete other online tasks, you can purchase a data plan through the Disney Cruise Line app. The biggest help for us was to visit the “Connect@Sea” help desk on Deck 4. The experts there can help you navigate the plan that is right for you and provide tech support for your particular phone.
So what do you think? Are you ready to let your imagination set sail on the Disney Dream? Have you sailed on the Disney Dream before? Let us know in the comments below!
Related: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line
Hoppy planning!
