Q: How would you describe yourself as a mom?
A: “I'm a fun, cool mom. I like to enjoy a drink here and there, and the drinks on the cruise were delicious. But for $17 [each], it might not have been worth it, and I'm now going to owe my sister $34.”
Q: Is a Disney cruise a good family trip for multiple generations?
A: “I think it's a great cruise for three generations. The stateroom is spacious if your group is two adults and two kids, but if you’re traveling with more and you’re able to afford it, I suggest splurging on two rooms, as the pull-out sofa is not the most comfortable and, unfortunately, the bunk bed only reaches 220 pounds and should really only be used for a child. I also wish the top bunk safety bar was longer and a bit sturdier. I love that we have a balcony though. You definitely need a balcony if you’re claustrophobic and don’t like to be stuck indoors. It's worth the extra splurge. It's also nice waking up and being able to see the ocean. It's the most relaxing way to wake up in the morning.”
Q: What about the meals?
A: “The food has been amazing and has been accommodating to all types of diets. There’s Halal food, kosher food, food for vegetarians and vegans. Oh, and allergies. Disney is very conscious of food allergies.”
Q: How so?
"For one thing, we had the same serving staff the whole time for our sit-down meals, so we didn't need to explain our group's allergies over and over again. Each restaurant also had special allergy menus with logos next to each allergen-free food, so you can relax knowing everything on the menu has already been vetted. That was a huge relief as a mom. I also thought the allergen-free food options were great. It didn't feel like we were missing out on a ton compared to the normal menu. Just be mindful of the buffet in case your little one can't read yet or can be a bit impulsive—I suggest parents go with young kids if they have specific food allergies.”
Q: Any can’t-miss dishes?
A: "I personally loved the food and entertainment at Animator's Palate. The black truffle pasta purseittes was my favorite appetizer of the whole trip, and, I don't want to give anything away, but the meal ends with a surprise appearance by one very famous sorcerer. For dessert, the Grand Marnier souffle at Lumiere's was an absolute standout. I also loved their crispy roasted duck breast entree and Gaston's escargot gratinée as an appetizer, incredible. And it wouldn't be a Disney cruise without their famous chicken tenders, which you can grab at the buffet and a few quick-service spots. My son would argue his favorite food on board was the unlimited soft-serve ice cream, so take that as you will. Oh, and if you want an insider tip: On the last day of your cruise, the buffet will offer Mickey Mouse CHURRO WAFFLES which are absolutely divine."
Q: What about the entertainment? Is it engaging for all ages or should parents plan on napping through it?
A: “I enjoyed the on-board entertainment. The theater show [Tangled: The Musical] was so well done. I liked that they incorporated the movie with the show. It honestly felt like a Broadway play, it was that fantastic. My antsy 6-year-old sat through the whole thing without a peep and wouldn't stop talking about how awesome it was days later."
Q: Any other features you liked or didn’t like?
A: “Oh, I also love that when you wake up in the morning, channel one has a replay of the cruise director telling you what's going to happen for the day. So today, we’re going to explore the island of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and then tonight we get to go trick-or-treating with Mickey Mouse and friends. How fun!”
