17 Magical Disney Wish Cruise Tips You’ll Be Glad You Knew Before You Sailed

Life on Rosemary Beach
Nov 9
5 min read

Updated: Nov 13

🚢 1. Don’t Arrive Early for Your Port Time

If your port arrival time says 12:30, stick to it! When we arrived right on time, by the time we parked and dropped our luggage, we walked straight into check-in at 12:45. We easily bypassed the long lines of guests waiting for later check-in slots.

👉 Pro tip: Save yourself the stress and skip the crowds — Disney’s system actually rewards punctuality.

🍴 2. Eat Lunch in a Dining Room Instead of the Buffet

On embarkation day, most people rush to the buffet, which can be crowded and noisy. Instead, head to one of the ship’s elegant dining rooms for a more relaxed meal. The service is better, and the food feels like a proper start to your vacation.

🧒 3. Ask for Children’s Robes

Once you’re in your stateroom, you can request children’s robes from your room host. They’re adorable, super comfy, and make for perfect photo ops! Note, supplies are limited.

🍪 4. Cookies & Milk — Delivered!

End the night on a cozy note. You can order warm cookies and milk from room service before bedtime. It’s free and absolutely magical — a sweet Disney touch that both kids and adults love.

🍫 5. Unlimited Mickey Bars via Room Service

Yes, you read that right! You can order as many Mickey bars as you want through room service — no extra charge. It’s one of those unadvertised Disney perks that makes cruising even more fun.

👕 6. Pre-Iron Your Clothes

There are no irons allowed in the rooms, and unless you’re staying near a laundry area, it’s inconvenient to use the public ones. Iron your outfits before boarding, or pack wrinkle-release spray to stay looking sharp.

🚪 7. Book a Room Near the Elevators or Stairs

Our stateroom was near the elevators, and surprisingly, it wasn’t noisy at all. It made it so much easier to get around the ship — especially with kids and bags in tow.

🎭 8. Watch On-Deck Shows from Deck 12

When the ship hosts deck parties or fireworks, head to Deck 12 for the best view. It’s higher up, less crowded, and perfect for photos or videos.

🍷 9. Bring Your Own Wine or Champagne

Disney allows guests to bring wine or champagne onboard (check the current limit before sailing). We packed a bottle and requested glasses and a corkscrew from room service — no hassle at all!

🍹 10. Try the Drink of the Day

Each day, the bartenders feature a “Drink of the Day” for just $7. We found them a bit sweet for our taste, but the Mai Tai on Castaway Cay was a winner. Even if you just try one, it’s a fun (and affordable) way to taste the tropical vibe.

💆 11. Look for Massage Specials on Castaway Cay

If you love the spa, check Senses Spa offerings on Castaway Cay day. They often run discounted massages while docked — it’s the same luxury experience for less.

🏖️ 12. Walk to the Far End of Castaway Cay

Most people stop near the first beach area they see. But if you walk to the far end of the island, you’ll find more lounge chairs, fewer crowds, and a much more peaceful beach day.

☕ 13. Order Room Service Breakfast

You can order early-morning coffee and pastries using the door hanger menu the night before. Room service will quietly deliver breakfast right to your door — ideal for watching the sunrise from your veranda.

🧳 14. Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are lifesavers on cruises. We kept our clothes organized and simply placed the cubes into the closets. Bonus tip: store your empty suitcases on the veranda to save space in your room.

🪄 15. Bring Your Magic Bands

If you already have Disney Magic Bands, bring them along! They make it easier to open your room and check in for activities. We forgot ours and definitely missed the convenience.

🛏️ 16. Ask for a Foam Pad for the Sofa Bed

If you’re using the sofa bed, request a foam mattress pad from your room host. Supplies are limited, but it makes a big difference in comfort — especially for adults or teens sleeping there.

✨ 17. Relax and Enjoy the Magic

Every moment aboard the Disney Wish is full of charm — from character sightings to themed dinners and Broadway-level shows. Take time to slow down, savor the details, and let Disney take care of the rest.

💡 Bonus Tip: Download the Disney Cruise Line App

This app is your onboard planner — it shows daily activities, menus, showtimes, and character meet-and-greet schedules. You can even message family members through it (for free) while onboard.

📸 Final Thoughts

Our Disney Wish Cruise was pure magic — from embarkation to Castaway Cay sunsets. With these insider tips, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time soaking in every bit of Disney enchantment.

🧜‍♀️ Whether it’s cookies at midnight, unlimited Mickey bars, or a hidden spa deal — the little things truly make this cruise unforgettable.

🙋‍♀️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What time should I arrive for my Disney Wish cruise?Arrive exactly at your assigned port time. Early arrivals may end up waiting, while on-time guests move smoothly through check-in.

2. Can you bring alcohol on the Disney Wish?Yes! Disney allows a small quantity of wine or champagne per adult. Check the Disney Cruise Line website for current limits.

3. Is room service free on the Disney Wish?Most items, including Mickey bars and cookies & milk, are free of charge. Just remember to tip your server!

4. How do you get the best views for deck shows?Head to Deck 12 — it’s elevated and less crowded, offering an incredible view of the stage and fireworks.

5. Can you eat lunch anywhere on embarkation day?Yes! Skip the buffet and dine in a sit-down restaurant for a quieter and more enjoyable start.

6. What’s the best tip for families?Bring Magic Bands and packing cubes for maximum convenience. These two things simplify everything from organization to onboard access.

🌐 External Resource

For updated cruise rules and onboard perks, visit the official Disney Cruise Line website.

🏝️ Your Turn — Plan Your Disney Wish Adventure!

Don’t forget to pack the magic! Whether it’s your first Disney cruise or a return to the high seas, being prepared makes all the difference. To help make your embarkation stress-free, I’ve created a FREE Disney Wish 3-Day Packing Checklist—perfect for families! It includes everything from cruise essentials and evening outfits to must-haves for kids and special touches that make your trip extra magical. Also, I have included some of my Disney cruise must-haves below!