There is nothing quite so magical as celebrating the holiday season on the high seas. During November and December, Disney Cruise Line offers special Very Merrytime Cruises aboard all fours ships, with sailings from Florida, Texas and New York. These festive sailings are a favorite of Disney Parks Moms Panel Disney Cruise Line Specialist Nancy W.
She can’t say enough about the holiday décor during this special time of the year. “I love how Disney Cruise Line decks out their ships from stem to stern with uniquely themed wreaths, garland and Christmas trees in the youth clubs, lounges and dining venues,” remarked Nancy W. “You could spend hours just checking out all the holiday decor on your Very Merrytime Cruise! There are so many beautiful backdrops for your photos especially if you plan on using one for your holiday card! And if you decide on taking your holiday photo onboard, make sure to bring something festive for you family to wear!”
Guests can get involved in the decorating as well. One special family gets the chance to light up the beautiful 24-foot Christmas tree in the atrium during Mickey’s Tree Lighting Ceremony. You may also smell one of Nancy W.’s favorite holiday décor items as soon as you get onboard. The life-sized gingerbread house is completely made from edible ingredients, but no snacking! An interesting fact from Nancy W., the gingerbread house is created by chefs onboard in late November. It is truly a site to see … and smell! Guests will get a chance to get a gingerbread making lesson of their own. “As a family, we work together to create a gingerbread masterpiece at the Gingerbread House Making activity hosted by one of the onboard chefs! The chef takes you step-by-step through the process allowing you to customize your creation with colorful candies and delicious frosting!” says Nancy W.
But there is so much more than gorgeous decorations during this festive cruise. According to Nancy, your favorite Disney characters also get in the holiday spirit. “The Characters also get into the spirit of the season with several adorable holiday outfits! I always love an opportunity to get a Character photo in unique clothing,” exclaimed Nancy. “And I highly recommend finishing your holiday shopping at the gift shops onboard. There are some exclusive holiday-themed items that will make great presents for your Disney loving friends and family.”
“My crew loves the special holiday events on the Very Merrytime Cruises especially seeing how low we can go during the Candy Cane Limbo and how long we can hula throughout the Holiday Hula Hoop during the Deck the Deck Tropical Party” said Nancy W. She recommends getting a front row seat to the Winter Wonderland Ball, a festive show that takes place in the atrium.
Families can also catch the Dicken’s Carolers singing festive tunes around the ship, listen to the storytellers tell tales of Holiday traditions from around the world or hear a festive tale from Mrs. Claus. Plus, don’t miss your chance to take your picture with Santa Claus himself!
If your sailing takes you to Disneys Castaway Cay, you will enjoy the magic of the season there as well. Snow flurries will fall and be sure keep an eye out for Mr. and Mrs. Snowman. Nancy and her family enjoy capturing a photo with this duo and love taking a ride on the island’s tram that is decorate to resemble a reindeer … complete with antlers and a tail!
For more tips or to ask questions about planning your holiday Disney vacation, whether on land or sea, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel.
