Walt Disney World versus Disney Cruise Line vacation
Choosing between a trip to Walt Disney World and a Disney Cruise Line vacation really comes down to the kind of experience you want most for you and your family. Both are very “Disney,” but they feel different day to day.
In general, Walt Disney World will be bigger, busier, more customizable, and will include more attractions and things to do. On the other hand, a Disney cruise will be easier, more relaxing, and will provide more of an all-inclusive feel.
While this decision is very personal for your family, we can help you understand some of the factors for you to consider helping make certain you are choosing the right plan for your family. Let’s look at some of those factors.
Do you like to spend a lot of time planning?
Typically, a trip to Walt Disney World will require much more advance planning than a cruise. Things like choosing the right resort, deciding which parks to visit, researching restaurants, and making dining reservations, as well as other things.
On a Disney cruise, most of this is already determined for you which can make the planning process less stressful.
What ”pace” are you looking for and how important is relaxation?
Walt Disney World can be fast-paced, exhausting, but with classic Disney magic. Expect lots of walking standing in line, and carefully scheduled days.
A Disney cruise will be slower paced and highly relaxing. Everything you need, including your room, your food, your entertainment, and kids’ activities, will all be in one place, allowing you to unpack once and skip the daily commute to and from the parks.
How important is the “thrill” factor?
If you are looking for thrilling rides, awesome attractions, and many dining and shopping options, then Walt Disney World might be your cup of tea. The four distinct theme parks and two water parks provide endless opportunities to enjoy some amazing rides and attractions. The highlights of a Disney cruise will include rotational dining, Disney theatrical performances, Disney private island destinations, and port excursions.
Some folks feel a cruise is better when traveling with toddlers or grandparents because of the more relaxing pace. Frequently, guests visiting a Disney destination for the first time will choose Walt Disney World for a “classic” Disney vacation.
Let’s look at cost
Disney Cruise Line can look expensive upfront, but it includes much more in the base fare. For many families, cruises end up more predictable, easier to budget and less expensive. The variation in cost for a Walt Disney World visit can be extremely broad because of many factors.
The final cost will be impacted by the resort you choose, your park ticket plans, and your dining preferences. Transportation and souvenirs may be an additional expense. In short, it will have less of an all-inclusive feeling, making budgeting a little more difficult.
In summary
I would recommend Walt Disney World if you have never been, rides are your family’s main goal, you want classic Disney magic, and you enjoy active vacations.
On the other hand, I would choose a Disney cruise if you want lower costs, you value relaxation, you dislike complicated planning, and you want a more premium feel vacation.
One final thought – why not do both? Many folks do a land and sea vacation combining a trip to Walt Disney World with a Disney cruise. This is a great way to experience both “magical vacations.” My recommendation would be to plan your WDW visit first, followed by the cruise. Enjoying the nice relaxing environment of a cruise is a great way to chill after a busy few days at Walt Disney World.
If a Walt Disney World trip or a Disney cruise looks like something you and your family would enjoy click below to book your trip with one of our advisors.
