While the cruise industry often buzzes with news of ever-larger and newer vessels, Disney Cruise Line has maintained a steady presence, focusing on quality and immersive experiences across its fleet of five ships: the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish. The Disney Dream, launched in 2011, embodies the signature Disney touch, offering exceptional children’s programs, dedicated teen spaces, a nursery for the youngest cruisers, Broadway-caliber live entertainment, exclusive access to the private island paradise of Castaway Cay, and the seamless integration of Disney World vacation experiences. The Disney Dream truly encapsulates the magic that Disney is known for.
If you’re considering a voyage aboard the Disney Dream, prepare to be captivated by these 14 outstanding features:
1. AquaDuck Water Coaster
Dominating the upper decks of the Disney Dream is the AquaDuck, a breathtaking water coaster that promises an exhilarating ride for thrill-seekers. This innovative attraction, a true marvel of engineering, propels guests through twists, turns, drops, and even an uphill section reminiscent of river rapids. Riders embark in two-person inflatable rafts and journey along a 765-foot-long course. The adventure begins on Deck 16 with an initial plunge, followed by a daring swing-out loop that extends 13 feet beyond the ship’s edge, suspending riders 150 feet above the vast ocean below. The AquaDuck is an experience unlike any other, culminating in a refreshing splashdown on Deck 12.
Please note: Riders must be at least 48 inches tall to experience the AquaDuck.
2. Virtual Portholes in Interior Cabins
A groundbreaking innovation, the Virtual Portholes transform interior cabins into immersive oceanview experiences. These high-tech "windows" display real-time views of the sea outside the ship, thanks to strategically placed high-definition cameras. Sophisticated technology ensures that the view from each Virtual Porthole aligns perfectly with the motion felt in that specific cabin. But the magic doesn’t stop there. Guests might also encounter animated Disney characters, such as Peach the starfish from "Finding Nemo," making surprise visits to the window, adding a whimsical touch to the voyage.
3. "It’s a Small World" Nursery
Catering to the youngest cruisers, the Disney Dream features the "It’s a Small World" Nursery, a dedicated space for infants and toddlers aged 3 months to 3 years. Similar to Flounder’s Reef on the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic, this nursery provides a safe and stimulating environment for little ones. Parents can peek in on their children through a one-way window into the main play area, offering peace of mind. The nursery also includes a comfortable naptime area for restful breaks. Advance reservations are required, and an additional fee applies for nursery services, as other kids’ programs are included in the cruise fare. A significant perk: children under three sail free on Disney cruises.
4. Oceaneer Club
The Oceaneer Club is a haven of fun and adventure for children aged 3 to 10. Located on the Disney Dream, this vibrant space features a central hub area themed around Peter Pan’s Never Land. Here, children can participate in storytelling sessions, meet beloved Disney characters, and even star in their own performances. A giant screen provides the backdrop for movie screenings and interactive experiences with Crush the Turtle.
5. Turtle Talk with Crush
Disney World veterans may already be familiar with Crush the Turtle, the engaging character who interacts directly with children in real-time. This innovative technology extends to the Disney Dream, where Crush makes appearances on the giant screen in the Never Land area of the Oceaneer Club. Kids can chat with Crush, ask questions, and receive personalized responses, creating a truly memorable and interactive experience.
6. Andy’s Room in the Oceaneer Club
Inspired by the beloved Toy Story movies, Andy’s Room is a whimsical play area filled with opportunities for imaginative play. Children can climb on oversized toys, play games on computers integrated into the walls, and dress up in costumes and props, immersing themselves in the world of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and their friends.
7. Pixie Hollow in the Oceaneer Club
Step into the enchanting world of Tinkerbell and her fairy friends in Pixie Hollow. This themed play area offers a variety of creative activities, including arts and crafts projects and dress-up opportunities. The Oceaneer Club also features other engaging play areas, such as:
- Explorer Pod: Featuring a submarine surfacing in the center of the room and interactive computer game stations.
- Monster’s Academy: A play structure for climbing, computers integrated into the walls for games, and monster-themed costumes and props.
8. Oceaneer Lab
Connected to the Oceaneer Club by two Workshops, the Oceaneer Lab is another exciting area for children aged three to ten on the Disney Dream. The main hall boasts a celestial map overhead and a stage for children’s performances and storytelling. A large screen hosts movie screenings and visits from the mischievous Stitch, utilizing the same technology as Turtle Talk with Crush. The Oceaneer Lab also includes an Animator’s Studio and a Sound Studio, equipped with song-making and recording software. The two Workshops provide opportunities for hands-on learning through science labs, art projects, and culinary experiences.
9. Animator’s Studio
Within the Oceaneer Lab, the Animator’s Studio provides young artists with everything they need to explore the world of animation. Maquettes (3D character models), light box tables, drawing tools, and computer stations are readily available for children to create their own artwork or sketch their favorite Disney characters.
10. Vibe Teen Club
Deck 5 of the Disney Dream is home to Vibe, a sprawling 9,000-square-foot space exclusively for teenagers aged 14 to 17. Access is granted via a "teen-only" swipe card, ensuring a private and secure environment. Inside, teens can relax in comfortable seating, enjoy refreshing beverages at the fountain bar, and connect with friends in the media room. Video editing technology, social media apps, and Wi-Fi-enabled laptops are available for teens to explore and enjoy.
11. Edge Tween Club
The Vibe teen club extends to an outdoor area with lounge chairs, wading pools, water fountains and jets, and games such as foosball and ping-pong.
Tween Club – Edge
For kids aged 11 to 13, the Edge lounge provides a loft-style space with notebook computers for games and social media. A massive video wall can be used as one giant screen or divided into smaller screens for gaming or movies. A lighted dance floor adds to the entertainment, and a unique feature is the view of the AquaDuck water coaster as it passes through the forward funnel of the ship, where the Edge is located.
12. Atrium Lobby
The heart of the Disney Dream is its magnificent three-deck Atrium Lobby. A focal point is a five-foot-tall bronze statue of Admiral Donald Duck, who surveys the grand staircase, adding a touch of nautical charm and Disney magic to the elegant space.
13. Enchanted Garden and Other Restaurants
The Enchanted Garden Restaurant is designed as an airy conservatory, complete with a "sky" that transforms from day to sunset to nighttime as guests dine.
For other family dining options:
- Animator’s Palate: A signature restaurant decorated with black-and-white sketches that magically transform into color during the meal.
- Royal Palace: Inspired by classic Disney movies such as Cinderella, Snow White, and Sleeping Beauty.
14. The District Adults-Only Area
The Disney Dream offers a range of stateroom options, from spacious Royal Suites with Verandahs (898 sq. ft.) to Standard Inside Staterooms (169 sq. ft.). The inside staterooms feature virtual portholes, transforming the experience of an inside cabin. They can sleep three to four people, with a queen-size bed, a convertible sofa, a privacy divider and (in some units) a pull-down bed. Several types of cabins can sleep a family of five.
The District – Adults-Only Area
The District, on Deck 4, is an exclusive area for guests aged 18 and older. It features a piano lounge, several bars (including the Skyline bar with ever-changing views of famous city skylines), a pub with giant TVs, and a club for comedy acts, dancing, and live performances.
Also in The District:
- Senses Spa & Salon: Spanning two decks with 17 treatment rooms, a steam bath, sauna, rain showers, and two spa villas with treatment suites and private verandahs with whirlpool hot tubs.
- The Disney Dream also features a gym with ocean views, the Quiet Cove adult pool, the Cove Cafe (with Wi-Fi), and adults-only dining at Palo restaurant (the high-end Italian restaurant).
