By Arn Goldman
Disney
cruises offers voyages to locations around the world and provides amenities and activities to suit young and old. Aside from the expected
Caribbean and Bahamas routes, Disney Cruises sail the Riviera Maya, the Mexican west coast, Alaska and Western
Europe. The ships offer nearly all the experiences of traveling to a Disney theme park, while including enough adult activities to ensure a good time for the whole family.
How should I prepare for my cruise?
There's very little you need to do in order to get ready for your cruise. Pack as you would for a normal vacation; the experience of being on a Disney Cruise is akin to staying in a luxury hotel. Consider purchasing travel insurance, in case you happen to miss a flight along the way and fail to catch your boat. Disney strongly recommends that all passengers obtain passports before boarding, because certain countries won't allow you to cross their borders without one. Passport processing can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, so begin obtaining one as soon as you book your trip. You'll be able to charge items purchased on-board to your account, but remember to bring cash for tipping and port-related expenses.
What amenities are available aboard the cruise?
For those concerned about keeping in touch with their business contacts and accessing their e-mail accounts, all of these facilities are available on board. There will always be at least one computer room with a remote Internet connection available, and a ship-to-shore phone. As a family-oriented cruise, Disney Cruises offers 24-hour, on-board child care. Room service and a variety of restaurants are available; consider bringing a formal dress or suit and tie if you wish to dine at Palo, Disney Cruise's fine dining restaurant. There are always doctors on active duty available in case of emergencies.
What's the best way and best time to book a cruise?
Given the current economic crisis, the cruise market is in a downturn. However, Disney Cruises have stayed completely booked up, and it's in your interest to book as early as possible. If you want to book a summer cruise, consider purchasing it as early as September or October; if you wait until late spring or early summer, you may find yourself paying twice the early-booking cost of the trip. Booking as soon as a cruise is announced gives you the opportunity to choose from a full range of suites, and avoid getting stuck in a room that doesn't meet your needs. Booking through the Disney Cruises Website is your best option, because Disney doesn't tend to offer lower rates to travel agents or discount Websites.
Resources
About the Author:
Arn Goldman is a recent liberal arts grad interested in all things culture, both high and low. He writes about entertainment, tech and sports. Goldman received his B.A. in English and philosophy in 2009 and has written for eHow, Trails Travel and Answerbag.
