As one of the first guests to step aboard Disney Cruise Line's magnificent new vessel, the Disney Destiny, it became immediately clear that this was no ordinary holiday at sea. Within hours of boarding, I had witnessed the mischievous Loki attempting a ship takeover, indulged in endless ice cream with ocean views, and found my perfect cocktail spot in a bar inspired by the infamous Cruella DeVil.
A Character Lover's Dream Come True
The sheer volume and accessibility of character meet and greets on a Disney cruise is an underrated triumph. Using the handy Disney Navigator App, guests can easily schedule encounters throughout the day. On my brief two-day sailing, I met an impressive roster including Cruella DeVil, Maleficent, Belle, Mickey, Captain Hook, and Smee, and even joined Mickey, Donald, and Goofy for a lively dance party.
The magic extends to exclusive, secret experiences. Fellow passengers whispered about a hidden parlour where a lucky few can meet Dr. Facilier from The Princess and the Frog. This elusive encounter is so exclusive that attendees are sworn to secrecy. For Disney fans, this relaxed, plentiful character access is a dream compared to the often-hectic park schedules.
Endless Onboard Entertainment and Dining
The fun extends far beyond character interactions. The top deck features multiple pools, including one situated by a giant screen for watching Disney films. Adults can retreat to serene, exclusive areas with plentiful loungers and breathtaking ocean views, with the onboard spa offering the ultimate quiet escape.
Daily activities ensure there's never a dull moment. The schedule is packed with Disney and Marvel-themed quizzes, live music, and adorable events like the 'Diaper Dash' baby race. I braved the exhilarating AquaMouse water slide, a dinghy ride that propels you through tubes above the deck—prepare to get completely soaked!
Evening entertainment is equally impressive. The brand-new, ship-exclusive Hercules stage show is a West End-calibre production with a brilliant cast and jaw-dropping special effects. A superb Frozen production also dazzles audiences. The pirates' night culminates in a spectacular show and live music, followed by Disney Cruise Line's signature fireworks at sea—a industry exclusive.
Culinary Delights and Themed Bars
When appetite strikes, the options are vast. Marceline Market serves as the main buffet (don't miss the Mickey waffles), while Mickey's Festival of Foods offers tacos and barbecue. The rotational dining system means you're guaranteed a spot in the main restaurants without booking fights.
The Disney Destiny introduces the magnificent Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King restaurant, where live performances of the film's iconic songs accompany your meal. World of Marvel restaurant offers interactive fun, including Marvel trivia.
For adults seeking a refined experience, the Palo Steakhouse offers an all-inclusive brunch with incredibly generous portions—be prepared to roll out happily. Sweet lovers will rejoice at the abundance of ice cream, with Edna A La Mode Sweets being a must-visit for creating custom treats.
The evening bar scene is wonderfully thematic. DeVil's, a cosy lounge inspired by Cruella with live piano, boasts a creative cocktail menu featuring drinks like the 'Fearless Sir Galahad' mocktail and the 'Perfectly Wretched' served with edible make-up treats. The brave can venture into the Haunted Parlour, where paintings come alive and ghostly cocktails are almost too pretty to drink. For Brits craving a proper pint, the Cask and Cannon pirates-themed pub is an essential stop.
After the sugar rush, the well-appointed staterooms provide a perfect sanctuary. My balcony room was surprisingly spacious, offering an ideal private spot to enjoy ocean views, particularly when sailing towards Disney's private island, Castaway Cay.
Virgin Atlantic Holidays offers a package for a family of four starting from £5,384. This includes flights from Heathrow to Miami, a pre-cruise hotel stay, and a Disney Destiny sailing visiting Nassau and Castaway Cay, departing on 30th September 2026.
