Sailing on the Disney Wish: An Overview

Ahoy mates! I recently had the ultimate opportunity to sail on the Disney Wish media cruise as Serena’s guest. As a first time cruiser (Ever! On any cruise ship, let alone a Disney cruise), this experience was absolutely spectacular. I was not quite sure what to expect, but how could I go wrong? It’s a Disney cruise after all! And let’s face it, there are not many who can say they were one of the first to cruise Disney’s newest cruise ship in 10 years! 

There are so many amazing details and new experiences on the Wish, Disney really outdid themselves when designing this ship for Disney lovers, couples and families alike. 

Let’s jump in and see what the new ship is all about!


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Note: Living by Disney was hosted by Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line for the three-day Christening Cruise discussed in this article. All opinions and reviews provided are our honest feedback. We have our own cruise(s) booked as guests later this year and will update this review as needed.


Upper Deck – the Disney Wish

Cruise Itineraries

Setting sail from Port Canaveral, Florida, the Disney Wish offers 3- and 4-night cruises to Nassau, Bahamas (Castaway Cay (pronounced “key”)), Disney’s own private island. The ship welcomes 4000 passengers on a voyage like no other on Disney’s “Castle on the Seas!”

View of the Disney Wish from Castaway Cay Island

This ship is so bold and so grand, there is truly so much to see and do. We’ll get into all of what the Wish has to offer, but if you are considering cruising on this beauty, I highly recommend the 4-night cruise. The media event I attended was a 3-night cruise and it just wasn’t enough time to see and do everything we wanted to. It felt very rushed to get to see most things, so I recommend staying that extra night. You will appreciate the extra time to explore. If you are looking for a longer cruise, I would suggest one of the other Disney ships that currently offer longer sailings.


Grand Hall

As you step onboard the Wish, you will enter into the glittering and glistening Grand Hall – the cruise’s grand 3-deck atrium. The elegant space is inspired by the beauty of an enchanted fairytale, and on this ship, that fairytale is none other than Cinderella! At the base of the Grand Staircase, you’ll find a life size statue of Cinderella, and just behind her is her glass slipper. Lucifer, Gus Gus and even Jack are also on board and featured in the atrium. If you look up, the incredible chandelier sparkling and twinkling on the high ceiling actually represents Cinderella’s dress (upside down). It’s those amazing Disney details that sets them apart from all others (and that are sometimes overlooked) that create the magic.

© Disney – Grand Hall on the Disney Wish

Throughout the day and evening, the Grand Hall transforms into an immersive entertainment venue and Disney Character space. Meet Captain Minnie & Mickey, Goofy, Pluto and so many others. Don’t forget to look up at the balcony overlooking the Wish stage – you never know what Disney couple might appear!


What’s Included & Not Included During Your Cruise

As a first timer, I was so curious what would be included and not included on the ship.

For example, should you bring money? How much is appropriate? Turns out, it’s not really necessary. You may want to have a few dollar bills to tip the porters and such along the way. But once on the ship, you will use your Key to the Kingdom Card or simply your stateroom number for charges (if applicable). When “checking-in” online before your cruise, you will be asked to provide a credit card number for such services. 

So, what else should you know… let’s dig into some of the basics that are included.

Basic Information

  • Your stateroom along with all applicable taxes and port fees
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner (rotational dining – we’ll get into that in just a bit)
  • Soft drinks served at meals and at each ship’s beverage station
  • Snacks and ice cream throughout the ship
  • Disney Character Meet & Greets
  • Entertainment including live Broadway-style productions at the Walt Disney Theater as well as Disney movie classics and current first-run films at the Neverland and Wonderland theaters – when I sailed, the movie theaters were playing Lightyear among other films.

There are a few optional services and activities that do require an additional charge, including Port Adventures excursions, spa and salon services, babysitting in our ship’s nurseries, onboard photography service, phone calls, video games, alcoholic beverages, and the adults-only dining venues, Palo and Enchante. Note that gratuity is also included on most drink and dining bills. It’s usually 18%. 


Accommodations & Staterooms

There are 1244 staterooms aboard the Wish, with a total of 4000 passengers. 

Here is the breakdown:

  • 121 Inside Staterooms (10% of rooms) 
  • 877 Verandah Staterooms (70% of rooms)
  • 170 Oceanview Staterooms (14% of rooms) 
  • 76 Concierge Staterooms (6% of rooms)
Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah – Deck 7

What’s Included in Each Room?

  • Queen beds in all non-Concierge staterooms
  • Staterooms sleep up to 5 Guests
  • Split bathroom in most staterooms
  • Elevated bed frame for luggage storage
  • 902 connecting staterooms
  • 43-inch flat-screen TV, USB-A and USB-C charging ports, full-length mirror, mini safe
  • Privacy dividers in each stateroom

If you are staying in one of the 76 Concierge Staterooms, here is what’s included:

  • Most staterooms feature king beds
  • Royal Suites sleep up to 6 Guests
  • Wish Tower Suite sleeps up to 8 Guests
  • Access to dedicated lounge on Deck 12
  • Private sun deck on Deck 13

Stateroom/Deck Theming

There are 15 decks on the Wish. Each deck showcases two Princess themes, with the exception of the Concierge floor.

If you have two rooms with a connecting door, you will have one of each Princess represented on that floor.

Here are the theming details for each floor of the ship:

  • Cinderella and Frozen: deck 2, 6 and 7
  • Aurora and Tiana: deck 8, 9
  • Ariel and Moana: deck 10, 11
  • Rapunzel: Concierge decks 

I stayed in a Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah on deck 7. Our room number was 7156 and featured artwork from Frozen. Our neighbor’s theme was Cinderella. Super cute!!

Deck Flooring

Rotational Table Service Dining

There are 3 entirely NEW and incredible dining experiences included with your cruise. During your cruise, you will dine at each one and your servers even rotate with you so they get to know your group and dining preferences! It’s actually quite fabulous to sit down and have drinks, for example, placed on the table before you even ask! On night one, I asked my server for seltzer water, each night after that it was brought to me without even asking. That’s service! The crew will bring you absolutely anything you need or request. They are extremely accommodating and are there to make your dining experience the best it can be!

On the Disney Wish, you’ll dine at 1923, Arendelle and Worlds of Marvel. Each one of these incredible restaurants offer such unique dining, every night will be completely new and different. 

You can dress up for the evening and theme your outfit with the dining experience, but you don’t have to. Cruise casual is the dress code – anything from jeans, dress shorts, sandals, sundresses, etc. is acceptable. 

1923 Dining Room Artwork

1923

Take a walk back in time as you enter 1923. Named for the year the Walt Disney Company was founded, this restaurant honors both Walt and Roy. There are two dining rooms – one named for each. In each room you’ll find hundreds of sketches, drawings and props celebrating animation throughout the years. The cuisine is inspired by Disney’s California heritage, highlighting the region’s unique blend of Asian, European and South American cuisine. 

This dining experience is elegant and refined, but not over the top. It reminded me a lot of the Hollywood Brown Derby in Hollywood Studios or Carthay Circle in California Adventure. It’s old world Hollywood at its finest!

Arendelle Dining Room

Arendelle

Get ready to be blown away! This was by far my favorite of all three. If you are a lover of all things Frozen, then this is 100% for you. It’s time to celebrate Anna and Kristoff’s Royal Engagement, and we’ve all been invited to the party hosted by none other than Elsa and Olaf! Even Oaken is there, making his royal debut! And he is absolutely HILARIOUS! Yoo hoo!  

As you enjoy a delicious Norwegian-inspired dinner, you are magically transported to the Kingdom of Arendelle for the Royal Celebration. Dance and sing along to all of your favorite Frozen songs. There is even an epic sing-along of Let It Go led by Kristoff and Oaken. It’s the duet you didn’t know you always wanted! 

Worlds of Marvel Dining Entryway

World of Marvel

Enter the world of Marvel – the ultimate superhero adventure! I don’t think you need to be a huge fan of Marvel to enjoy this show/dinner. But if you are, it will make it all the more awesome, and you will love this! Everything about this dining experience is immersive and interactive. Surrounded by PYM Tech, YOU play a role in the newest action-packed Avengers mission!! And you will even get a special surprise at the end – a visit from one of your favorite Marvel heroes!

The menu is inspired by a mix of real and fictional settings, such as African Wakanda, Eastern European Sokovia and NYC!


Casual & Quick-Service Dining

Marceline Market

I personally thought the casual dining options aboard the Wish were fabulous! Inspired by Walt Disney’s early-childhood hometown of Marceline, Missouri, Marceline’s Market, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Featuring 10 food stalls and a café-style beverage bar in the center, Marceline Market is styled as an old industrial loft converted into a bustling marketplace. Here you’ll find a wide variety of food offerings sure to satisfy every Guest. Salads, sandwiches, seafood, soups, hot and cold meals, dessert, anything you are looking for Marceline will for sure have it. The food is excellent, I did not have one bad or mediocre meal. Honestly, I could have eaten every meal here.

© Disney – Marceline Market

Out and about on the upper decks? Stop by Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods for lunch, dinner or a snack! Grab a quick bite and enjoy the ocean view. Serving BBQ, burgers, chicken fingers, fries, tacos and more! I thought the food was really great here – it’s quick-service so it’s nothing fancy. But it’s good and fresh and will satisfy your hunger! 

© Disney – Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods

Marceline’s Market and Mickey & Friends Festival of Foods is included with the price of your cruise.

Joyful Sweets

Want some dessert? Head to Joyful Sweets, appropriately themed after the Pixar film Inside Out, for a scoop of homemade gelato, ice cream, candy or a tasty sweet treat! Most options are included, but there are a few more decadent options that will cost extra. 


Adult Dining

Palo Steakhouse

There are two adult dining options aboard the Wish – Palo Steakhouse and Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallement. Both exclusive restaurants are absolutely beautiful, with spectacular ocean views. Each themed after Beauty and the Beast; Palo is inspired by Cogsworth and Enchante by Lumiere. But, they are also extremely pricey. Be prepared to spend a premium dollar to dine at either of these options. Reservations are required.

However, it is nice to have the option to dine without the littles. While the kiddies are enjoying themselves in the Oceaneer Club (included in your cruise fare), the adults can be wined and dined.

Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallement

Lounges

The Bayou Lounge

It’s time to sit back and relax! And there are quite a few options on the Wish to do just that. Looking for a great cocktail to enjoy while you relax? Visit Nightingale’s just off the Grand Hall, the ship’s sophisticated piano bar, inspired by Cinderella singing “Sing Sweet Nightingale” from the classic animation. This lounge has the most incredible and different cocktails, unlike anything you’ve ever had. You can’t go wrong with anything you choose. It’s feels upscale, yet completely relaxing and comfortable. I loved it, and can’t wait to visit again on my next sailing.

Nightingale’s Lounge & Piano Bar

Looking for something a little more upbeat? I suggest The Bayou or Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge! Each with their own unique vibe, they offer amazing themed cocktails and a great, fun (and louder) atmosphere.

Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge is extremely popular. When I sailed, they were controlling how many Guests could enter at one time. You put your name on the list and awaited your turn. But, once inside it is awesome! The music, the drinks, the environment. Be sure to pay attention to the views behind the bar – you will hyperdrive into space and hang out in the galaxy for a while. It’s pretty cool!

If you want a cold beer and a bit more of the pub feel, Keg & Compass is the place for you! Inspired by the sea, look for the nautical and hidden mickey details once inside the bar. And finally, if an adult only experience is what you are seeking, visit The Rose. An elegant lounge dipped in the beautiful fairytale of Beauty and the Beast. It’s pure sophistication and grace.  

The Rose Lounge

Entertainment & Experiences

Disney is first class when it comes to experiences and entertainment. They never disappoint! And what is offered on the cruise is no exception, there is something for everyone. Movies, sports, games, theater-style performances and the all-new, first of its kind, AquaMouse attraction will keep you busy all day long! There are several movie theaters (Wonderland and Neverland), the Walt Disney Theater that houses live performances that rival broadway, and so much more!

© Disney – Aqua Mouse Attraction
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

The cruise ship also offers the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, located on deck 4 off the Grand Hall! Your little Prince or Princess will love being pampered and adorned! This shop offers similar packages to other locations on other Disney cruises and in the parks. 


For the Teens, Kids and Extra Littles

Entrance to Disney’s Oceaneer Club for Kids

If you are cruising with little ones, this ship has the coolest space created specifically for kids, ages 3 and up. As a matter of fact, adults are not allowed. The Oceaneer Club has five different, highly interactive themed spaces your kids will adore. Trust me, once they see what is in front of them, they won’t miss their parents while they wine and dine on the ship! Star Wars, Fairy Tales, Imagineering, Marvel and Mickey and Minnie’s Captain’s Deck are the areas created for the little ones to create their own adventures! They will have a blast! 

Imagineering Area

The Oceaneer Club is included in your cruise fare. 

If you have babies 6 months to 3 years old, you may consider using the it’s a small world” nursery. They will be in very safe hands with the specially trained Disney Youth Counselors to care for them. Hourly rates do apply, and are not included in cruise fare.

Mickey & Minnie Captain’s Deck Area

Got teens? They need their own space too! The Hideaway, Edge, and Vibe are their hot spots aboard the ship. These spaces are specifically for teens where they can hang out, make friends and play games. They’ll love the freedom to be able to do their own thing!


Ultimate Rest & Relaxation

I would be remiss not to mention the amazing areas on the ship geared toward health and wellness. After all, it’s one of the reasons we go on vacation, right? The incredible Senses Spa and Fitness Center offers state of the art equipment and spa treatments, complete with a rainforest room and ice room. It’s pretty spectacular, the ultimate zen! Need a haircut or pedicure while on board? The Untangled Salon and Hook’s Barbery will fit the bill. These two very uniquely themed spaces will make you feel like a Prince and Princess!

© Living by Disney – Hook’s Barbery

And if you are looking for some quiet time by the pool, Quiet Cove and Cove Cafe offer adults only spaces to get away and enjoy some peace of mind for a bit. Visit the cafe for specialty drinks, coffee, teas and desserts or the poolside lounge/bar while enjoying the luxurious infinity pool. 

Cove Cafe

Laundry

While there is usually nothing particularly fun about laundry, I will say visiting the Fairytale Fresh Laundry room aboard the ship was an awesome experience. It is bright, big and charming. There are so many little details throughout the space, but more importantly, it’s huge! It has 26 washers, 30 dryers, and about 16 ironing boards/irons. Located on deck 8, mid ship, it is central to all the staterooms. Note this is the only laundry room on the ship. And because you can’t have irons in the rooms, you will need to visit the laundry room if you need to iron any of your clothes. I tried it and had no issues. It was a lovely space to visit!

Fairytale Fresh Laundry

Whatever your fancy and whatever your goal for taking a cruise on the Disney Wish, you’ll find it here. There is literally something for everyone. I cannot wait to plan another trip aboard this incredibly beautiful and grand ship. There is so much to see and do. I can guarantee you, you will love it as much as I did, if not more!

Marnie Raimondo
Hi there! I'm Marnie, Disney blogger and writer. My passion is helping people plan magical Walt Disney World vacations. I love sharing Disney tips and advice based on my personal experiences from many, many magical trips over the years. I hope through my writing I can help you navigate your way through Disney news, the parks, dining, resorts and so much more! Happy planning!

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