Disney's Newest Cruise Ship Is Its Best Ever — Here's Why

Disney Cruise Line's newest ship is different — and that's why we love it. The Disney Wish is its best vessel yet.

The quintessential Disney touches that make this cruise line so beloved — appearances from Mickey and friends, a deck party with fireworks, themed dining, and spaces for all ages, along with attentive service from every cast member — are all present. But the Disney Wish takes the Disney Cruise Line experience to new heights, blending sophistication with whimsy.

During conversations with Imagineers and Disney Cruise Line leaders on board, they shared insights about the ship's motif of enchantment — a concept integral to many classic Disney films — which is woven into the staterooms, restaurants, recreation areas, and the castle-like Grand Hall, the first place guests encounter upon boarding.

Stepping onto the Disney Wish and entering the Grand Hall feels like walking into a fairy tale. This grand atrium features soaring columns leading up to a constellation-speckled ceiling, with a chandelier reminiscent of Cinderella's ball gown at its center and a statue of the heroine herself at the foot of the staircase. You might even catch a glimpse of a princess or prince waving from the balcony as you enter this bright and beautiful space. The cruise experience is set here, immersing you in the whimsical world of Disney storytelling in a modern, upscale environment that appeals to all ages.

And when we say there's something for everyone, we truly mean it. With its newest ship, Disney has perfected the art of combining beloved characters, film franchises, and experiences that cater to kids, teens, young families, and even adults traveling without children. From the adorable It's a Small World-themed nursery to the tween and teen-focused Edge and Vibe spaces, there are engaging areas for children from six months to 17 years old. Disney's Oceaneer Club, accessed by a slide from the Grand Hall, includes Marvel, Star Wars, and princess-themed areas, along with a Mickey playground and the Walt Disney Imagineering Lab, where kids can learn Imagineering secrets and participate in STEAM activities.

As I explored the space with Laura Cabo, portfolio creative executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, she pointed out each unique detail that makes the Oceaneer Club such a fun and immersive environment for children, down to the tiny touches that only a trained eye could spot.

That level of attention to detail is evident throughout the adults' spaces as well. Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge is one of the most anticipated bars on board the Disney Wish, featuring cocktails inspired by the planets visible through the viewport — when they’re not blasting through hyperspace, of course.

Cocktail menus at Nightingale's, a piano bar with "Cinderella"-inspired touches, and The Bayou, a beautiful lounge influenced by "The Princess and the Frog," are delightful and diverse, offering fun drinks with unique elements. Across the ship, you'll find trendy cocktails — think popsicle-infused spritzes, smoke bubble-topped libations, and sparkly drinks with edible glitter. And it’s not all about the flash; Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by chef Arnaud Lallement provide fine dining for adults only, in a charming setting inspired by "Beauty and the Beast."

We had the opportunity to enjoy a meal crafted by the esteemed three-Michelin-starred chef, and the tasting menu — featuring dishes you might find at his renowned restaurant in Champagne, France — was exquisite, complemented by stunning ocean views through panoramic windows. Untangled Salon, Hook's Barbery, Senses Spa, Senses Fitness center, and the adults-only deck and pool area offer more adult-oriented entertainment and relaxation, proving that a Disney cruise can be just as enjoyable for grown-ups.

Family-friendly spaces throughout the ship boast a number of Disney firsts: AquaMouse, the first-ever Disney attraction at sea; Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, Disney's first Frozen-themed dining experience featuring singing, dancing, and an adorable Olaf; Worlds of Marvel, the first Marvel dining adventure; and a Broadway-style adaptation of "The Little Mermaid."

Additionally, there's the first-of-its-kind two-story Wish Tower Suite, located in the ship's forward funnel and themed to "Moana," accommodating up to eight guests. Plus, there are four stunning Royal Suites and more concierge-level staterooms and suites. Regardless of the room type, guests will enjoy thoughtfully designed staterooms with fairy-tale touches — even the hallway carpets feature symbols from movies like "Tangled" and "Cinderella." While these whimsical details are charming, they maintain a modern, upscale, and bright ambiance.

Over the last two years, travel has been challenging, and in many ways, a cruise on the Disney Wish feels like a welcome escape from the stress of family vacation planning. I love researching and planning trips, but there’s something incredibly relaxing about stepping onto a ship and knowing that everything will be taken care of, from meal planning to child care. The Disney Wish — with its Michelin-worthy cuisine, beautiful suites, high-caliber entertainment, and magical touches — feels like a premium experience.

The Disney Wish set sail on its maiden voyage on July 14, 2022, offering three- and four-night itineraries from Port Canaveral to Nassau and Castaway Cay — Disney's private island in the Bahamas. This ship is the first of three new vessels to be built through 2025 at the Meyer Werft shipyard. While we don't have details on these upcoming ships yet, with the Wish sailing the high seas, Disney Cruise Line's future looks incredibly magical.