13 Things First-Time Disney Cruisers Should Know Before Sailing With Kids

Whether you're headed on a family Disney adventure by land or sea, wearing matching, personalized shirts or outfits is a thing. Get in on the fun by preparing ahead of time and packing at least one set to show off your family pride aboard the ship. You'll be surrounded by a ton of different prints and ideas when you set sail!

Pirate night is a staple on Disney cruises, but just because you see it on your itinerary doesn't mean you don't have to think about it much before the big night. Many of your fellow passengers go all out for this evening celebration, so if you or your kiddos have any pirate attire or accessories, be sure you pack them so everyone can get in on the fun.

Start to wind down toward the end of your trip and especially consider not overbooking your last full day. Between all of the excitement, activities, and stimulants, a Disney cruise can be pretty exhausting for kiddos, so don't be surprised if they start to crash toward the end.

Don't underestimate how exhausting just getting to and leaving your trip can be. If you have to fly or drive to the port, that's all part of your "first" day on vacation, plus the onboarding process. On your final day, it's really just waking up early and standing in line after a fast breakfast to disembark, so don't count on a few final hours to soak in the sun.

When you onboard, there's a period of time that kiddos have to be patient while waiting in multiple lines as families check in, receive their cruise cards, and actually board. During this time, there are porters with Disney gloves giving high fives, photo opportunities, and crew members announcing your family name as you enter the ship. While this can be thrilling for some children, it can also be a bit much for others, so know your child and prepare ahead of time.

Even if you are expected to have days of sun and the forecast is perfect, you will still need to pack layers. This is because you won't immediately be experiencing tropical weather from the moment you set sail, plus air conditioning will be pumping to compensate when the heat picks up.

From the incredible Frozen performance on the Disney Wonder to the exciting version of Tangled on the Disney Magic, you're going to want to make sure that your family doesn't miss out on the evening entertainment.

Don't fret if you or your little one forgot to pack an essential like a toothbrush, water diapers, or a phone charger. Even if they don't sell it in their gift shop, staff will work to help you get whatever it is that you need to continue having a blast on your trip!

Although it's tempting to want to sign up for every excursion and splurge for all of the additional treats while on board, don't worry if you opt not to partake in any additional costs. From the innovative kids' clubs that offer memorable entertainment for children of all ages to the packed itinerary of included activities, just going on a Disney cruise can be costly, and there's plenty to enjoy that you already payed for so there's no feeling like you're missing out if you don't incur additional costs.

Pack a tote or carry-on-sized bag with all of the essentials your family might need to enjoy the first day on the boat. When you board that first morning, your other bags will be taken and won't be delivered to your room until later in the day or evening, so be prepared to carry on exactly what you need. This way, you don't have to wait for a swimsuit or change of clothes to start having fun as soon as you step aboard.

From fish extenders that hang from doors to unique door decor to reflect each family, many don't waste any time adding some personal cheer to the halls. Whether you let your kiddos get crafty or special-order hangings that celebrate a specific occasion, your kids will love getting in on the door decor fun (instead of being the room with the lonely door among the hallway of cheer).

To prevent any stress or complicated decisions, take care of as much ahead of time as possible. You can sign up for a time to meet with characters (to help avoid waiting in endless lines) and even download the navigator app ahead of time to be able to keep in touch with everyone on the ship once you set sail since you won't be able send a text message saying meet at the buffet at noon!

While you're packing all of your family's Disney clothing, don't forget to hit up the costume box and gather as many gowns and special outfits that can fit. Dress-up attire is always appropriate, and you will see little ones clad in their princess and pirate garments throughout the entire trip.