For our family, it was a big first. Even though we've traveled
extensively, the one type of travel we hadn't done was cruising. I
was a little scared, truthfully - scared we'd be seasick, scared
I'll feel trapped - turns out I should have been scared my kids
would like it too much. We were fortunate to be invited on a
preview sailing of Disney Cruise Line's newest cruise
ship, the Disney Fantasy, and I can say with
certainty that the boat lives up to its name.
Since we've stayed at some pretty nice all-inclusive resorts,
the idea of most things being included is not new to us, and we've
been on some pretty amazing Disney vacations.
However, this is a twain that you want to meet, as the quality and
attention to detail that Disney puts forth in all their efforts is
definitely on display at sea. The finishings are beautiful, the
staterooms are pristine, the food was delicious (and plentiful!),
but above all - the staff was so wonderful.
It's difficult to pinpoint what our favourite part of the trip
was. I have the fondest memories of our servers, Brett and Jorge,
cutting up my son's dinner and feeding him broccoli. Which he ate!
The rotational dining plan on Disney cruises means your restaurants
change each night but the staff comes with you. My husband's
favourite day was our port at Disney's private island, Castaway
Cay. Our lazy day of sand castle building by the brilliant blue
Caribbean Sea was also a highlight for me. My six-year-old daughter
abandoned us for the Oceaneer's Club (included kids' programming
for children aged 3-12) every chance she got, and even though he
was not yet three, my son still talks about the fireworks - as a
part of the Pirate Party and also the great shows taking place in
the Walt Disney Theatre.
It's safe to say our Disney cruise blew my kids' minds. While
they've loved every trip we've gone on, this one seems to stand out
as one they really hope to repeat. At least twice a week my son
puts in a request for the "Boat House." I'm sure one day we'll be
back.
Corinne McDermott is mum to Megan and Riley, and founder of Have Baby Will Travel, an
award-winning website with a mission to inspire, motivate, and help
families travel with babies, toddlers, and young children. Connect
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