Magic or Royal Treatment? Choosing the Perfect Family Cruise

Jenn Schadle

Feb 21

8 min read

Setting Sail on a Magical Adventure

Imagine the gentle sway of the ocean beneath your feet, the salty sea breeze in your hair, and the promise of adventure on the horizon. Cruising has long been a favorite vacation choice for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and excitement. Two cruise lines that often top the list for families and fun-seekers are Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. But how do these two popular options stack up against each other? More importantly, what's included in your cruise fare, and what might cost you extra?

In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the world of Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, exploring what each offers as part of their standard package and what additional costs you might encounter. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, understanding the ins and outs of what's included can help you budget better and make the most of your vacation at sea.

The Magic of Disney Cruise Line

A Whole New World of Inclusions

When you step aboard a Disney Cruise ship, you're entering a world where magic meets the sea. Disney is known for its attention to detail and commitment to creating unforgettable experiences. But what exactly does your cruise fare cover?

Accommodations: Your stateroom is your home away from home, designed with Disney's signature style and comfort in mind.
Meals: Most dining options are included, from casual buffets to elegant sit-down restaurants.
Entertainment: Broaday-style shows, first-run movies, and character meet-and-greets are all part of the package.
Kids' Clubs: Age-appropriate supervised activities for children are included, giving parents some much-needed relaxation time.
Pools and Waterslides: Splash around in the various pools and enjoy the thrilling waterslides at no extra cost.
Fitness Center: Stay in shape with access to the onboard gym facilities.

The Extra Pixie Dust (Additional Costs)

While Disney Cruise Line offers a wealth of inclusions, there are some experiences that come with an additional price tag:

Specialty Dining: Venues like Palo and Remy offer a more upscale dining experience for an extra fee.
Alcoholic Beverages: Most alcoholic drinks are not included in the standard fare.
Spa Treatments: Pampering services at the Senses Spa & Salon come at an additional cost.
Shore Excursions: While you're free to explore ports on your own, organized excursions are extra.
Photos: Professional photos taken onboard can be purchased separately.
Gratuities: While not mandatory, tips for the crew are customary and not included in the fare.

Royal Caribbean: A Sea of Possibilities

All Aboard for Inclusions

Royal Caribbean is known for its innovative ships and wide range of onboard activities. Here's what you can typically expect to be included in your cruise fare:

Accommodations: Your chosen stateroom category, from interior cabins to luxurious suites.
Main Dining Room Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main dining areas.
Buffet and Casual Dining: The Windjammer Café and other casual eateries are included.
Basic Beverages: Water, tea, coffee, and some juices are complimentary.
Entertainment: Theater shows, live music, and comedy performances are part of the package.
Sports Activities: Rock climbing walls, FlowRider surf simulators, and mini-golf are usually included.
Fitness Center: Access to the gym and some fitness classes are complimentary.
Kids' and Teens' Programs: Supervised activities for younger guests are included.

Navigating the Extras

Royal Caribbean offers a plethora of additional experiences that come at an extra cost:

Specialty Dining: Restaurants like Chops Grille and Jamie's Italian have cover charges.
Beverage Packages: Alcoholic and premium non-alcoholic beverage packages are available for purchase.
Internet Access: Wi-Fi packages are an additional cost.
Spa and Salon Services: Treatments and services at the onboard spa are extra.
Shore Excursions: Organized tours and activities in port are not included in the cruise fare.
Gratuities: Like Disney, tips for the crew are expected but not included in the base fare.
Some Onboard Activities: Certain classes, workshops, or special events may have a fee.

Comparing the Cruise Lines: A Closer Look

Dining Delights

Both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer a variety of dining options included in the cruise fare, but there are some notable differences.

Disney's rotational dining system allows guests to experience different themed restaurants throughout their cruise, all included in the fare. The food quality is generally praised for its consistency and variety. Character dining experiences, where Disney characters visit tables during meals, are a unique inclusion that families particularly enjoy.

Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, offers a more traditional cruise dining setup with a main dining room and buffet options included. While the food is typically good, some guests feel that the quality can be inconsistent. Royal Caribbean does offer a wider variety of specialty dining options, albeit at an additional cost.

Entertainment Extravaganza

When it comes to entertainment, both cruise lines shine, but in different ways.

Disney Cruise Line is unmatched in its family-friendly entertainment offerings. From Broadway-caliber shows featuring beloved Disney characters to first-run movies in the onboard theater, the entertainment is top-notch and all-inclusive. Character meet-and-greets, a staple of the Disney experience, are plentiful and included.

Royal Caribbean focuses on high-energy entertainment with a broader appeal. While they offer excellent production shows and live music, they also feature unique entertainment options like ice skating shows and high-diving aquatic performances. Most of these shows are included in the cruise fare, but some special events or performances may come with an additional charge.

Kids and Teens Programs

Both cruise lines excel in providing engaging activities for younger guests, but with different approaches.

Disney's kids' clubs are legendary, with age-appropriate spaces and activities designed to keep children entertained for hours. The counselors are highly trained, and the theming is immersive. All of this is included in the cruise fare, making it easy for parents to enjoy some adult time.

Royal Caribbean also offers excellent kids' and teens' programs, all included in the fare. They tend to focus more on active play and social interaction, with facilities like rock climbing walls and surf simulators that appeal to older kids and teens. While not as immersive as Disney's offerings, they provide a wide range of activities that keep young cruisers engaged.

Adult-Only Areas and Activities

For adult travelers, both cruise lines offer spaces and activities designed for grown-ups, but with some differences in what's included.

Disney Cruise Line provides adult-only areas like the Quiet Cove Pool and various lounges and bars. While access to these areas is included, most alcoholic beverages are an additional cost. Adult-exclusive activities like mixology classes or wine tastings are usually offered for an extra fee.

Royal Caribbean also features adult-only spaces, including the Solarium on many ships. Like Disney, access to these areas is included, but alcoholic drinks are extra. Royal Caribbean tends to offer a wider variety of adult-focused activities, from dance classes to art auctions, many of which are included in the fare.

Navigating the Extras: Tips for Budget-Conscious Cruisers

Beverage Packages: To Buy or Not to Buy?

One of the biggest decisions cruisers face is whether to purchase a beverage package. Both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer these packages, but they can be pricey.

For Disney cruises, alcoholic beverage packages are not as common, but they do offer some prepaid options for wine and beer. Generally, unless you're a heavy drinker, it's often more economical to pay as you go.

Royal Caribbean offers more comprehensive beverage packages, including options for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. These can be a good value if you plan to consume multiple drinks per day, but it's important to do the math based on your typical consumption.

Tip: Consider your drinking habits carefully. If you're not a big drinker or plan to spend a lot of time in port, a beverage package might not be worth it.

Dining Dilemmas: When to Splurge on Specialty Restaurants

Both cruise lines offer specialty dining options that come with an additional charge. While the included dining options are generally very good, specialty restaurants can offer a more upscale or unique experience.

On Disney cruises, restaurants like Palo and Remy offer adult-exclusive fine dining. These can be a nice treat for a special occasion or a date night, but given the high quality of the included dining options, they're not necessary for a great culinary experience.

Royal Caribbean's specialty dining options are more numerous and varied, ranging from steakhouses to sushi bars. They can be a good way to break up the main dining room routine, especially on longer cruises.

Tip: Consider booking one or two specialty dining experiences for variety, but don't feel pressured to try them all. The included options are usually more than satisfactory.

Shore Excursions: Cruise Line vs. Independent Bookings

Shore excursions are a significant additional cost on both Disney and Royal Caribbean cruises. While booking through the cruise line offers convenience and the assurance that the ship won't leave without you, independent bookings can often be more affordable and offer more personalized experiences.

Disney's port adventures are known for their family-friendly focus and attention to detail, but they come at a premium price. Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of excursions to suit different interests and budgets.

Tip: Research your ports of call in advance. For popular tourist destinations, you can often find reputable local tour operators that offer similar experiences at lower prices. Just be sure to allow plenty of time to return to the ship.

Spa Services: Relaxation at a Price

Both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer luxurious spa services, but these come at an additional cost. While a spa treatment can be a wonderful way to relax on vacation, the prices are often higher than you'd find on land.

Tip: Look for spa discounts on port days when many passengers are off the ship. Some cruise lines also offer spa tours on the first day with special booking incentives.

Making the Most of What's Included

Free Activities Galore

Both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer a wealth of included activities that can keep you entertained throughout your cruise without spending extra.

On Disney cruises, take advantage of the numerous character meet-and-greets, first-run movies, and Broadway-style shows. Don't miss the Pirate Night party, a Disney cruise tradition that's included in your fare.

Royal Caribbean ships are packed with complimentary activities, from rock climbing and mini-golf to ice skating and surfing simulators. Take a dance class, attend a trivia contest, or enjoy live music in the various venues around the ship.

Maximize Your Dining Experience

While specialty restaurants can be tempting, both cruise lines offer excellent included dining options. On Disney cruises, the rotational dining system ensures variety, and don't forget about the casual dining options like Cabanas for a more relaxed meal.

Royal Caribbean's main dining room often features special theme nights, and the Windjammer Café offers a wide variety of options for casual dining. Some ships also have complimentary venues like Sorrento's Pizza or Café Promenade for quick bites.

Take Advantage of Kids' Programs

If you're traveling with children, make full use of the included kids' programs. These not only provide entertainment for the younger ones but also give adults some time to enjoy the ship's other offerings.

Disney's Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab offer immersive themed spaces and activities that kids love. Royal Caribbean's Adventure Ocean program provides age-appropriate activities and spaces for kids from 3-17.

The Bottom Line: Value for Money

When comparing Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, it's important to consider not just the price, but the overall value for what's included.

Disney Cruise Line generally comes with a higher price tag, but it includes more in the base fare, particularly when it comes to entertainment and dining quality. The immersive Disney experience and attention to detail can make it worth the extra cost for Disney fans and families with young children.

Royal Caribbean often offers more competitive pricing and frequent sales, making it a more budget-friendly option. While more activities and dining options might come with additional fees, the base fare still includes a wide range of high-quality experiences. For travelers who enjoy a more active vacation with lots of options, Royal Caribbean can offer excellent value.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Perfect Cruise

In the end, the choice between Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean comes down to your personal preferences, travel style, and budget. Both offer fantastic vacation experiences with a mix of included amenities and optional extras.

If you're traveling with young children and value the Disney brand and its attention to detail, Disney Cruise Line might be the perfect fit. The higher upfront cost often translates to fewer additional expenses onboard.

For those seeking a more diverse range of activities, dining options, and potentially lower base fares, Royal Caribbean could be the way to go. Just be prepared to budget for extras if you want to take full advantage of all the ship has to offer.

Whichever you choose, understanding what's included in your fare and what might cost extra will help you budget effectively and avoid any surprises. Remember, the goal is to relax and enjoy your vacation, so choose the option that aligns best with your idea of the perfect getaway at sea.

Bon voyage!