Pick a Disney Cruise for the holidays!

Imagine celebrating the holidays surrounded by ocean views, festive lights, and Disney magic. Disney Cruise Line takes holiday spirit to the next level with Disney’s Very Merrytime Cruises—a truly enchanting way to celebrate the holiday season with family, Disney characters, and festive activities. These cruises combine all the beloved Disney traditions with a holiday twist, creating memories to last a lifetime.

If you’re considering a holiday vacation at sea, here’s everything you need to know about Disney’s Very Merrytime cruises, from special holiday experiences to what makes these cruises so magical.

Festive Ship Decorations and Atmosphere

As soon as you board a Disney cruise during the holiday season, you’re welcomed by the sights and sounds of the holidays. Each ship is decked out with dazzling decorations, transforming every corner into a winter wonderland. From giant Christmas trees in the atrium, to the giant gingerbread house, twinkling lights, festive garlands, poinsettias, and the menorah at the guest services desk, the décor immerses you in holiday cheer.

Each ship even has a special tree-lighting ceremony featuring Disney characters dressed in holiday outfits. This “Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic” event brings families together as Mickey and friends gather around to light the tree and share holiday wishes. It’s the perfect start to a magical Holiday cruise.

Holiday-Themed Activities for All Ages

One of the highlights of Disney’s Very Merrytime Cruises is the variety of holiday activities for kids, teens, and adults alike. From cookie decorating to craft workshops, the ships are buzzing with holiday cheer.

Storytime with Mrs. Claus
Gather around for storytelling sessions as Mrs. Claus reads classic Christmas tales. It’s a cozy, nostalgic activity that brings out the holiday spirit in young and old alike.
Gingerbread House-Making
Get hands-on and decorate gingerbread houses as a family. These sessions are fun, messy, and delicious—plus, you get to enjoy your creations!
Santa Claus Meet-and-Greet
Yes, even Santa goes on vacation! Kids have the chance to meet Santa and share their Christmas wishes.
Youth Clubs
The dedicated children’s clubs, like Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, offer special holiday activities, from holiday crafts to themed dance parties, keeping younger guests entertained with festive fun.
Deck the Deck Holiday Party
This interactive dance party has kids, parents, and Disney characters dancing to holiday songs under the stars. It’s a high-energy celebration that brings everyone together.

For adults, Disney cruises offer holiday-themed cocktails and specialty dining experiences, making sure the grown-ups enjoy some seasonal indulgence, too.

Characters in Holiday Outfits

Disney characters are always a big part of the Disney Cruise Line experience, and during the holidays, they go all out in their festive best. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and even Chip and Dale dress up in holiday attire, creating picture-perfect moments at every turn. You can spot Mickey in a Santa suit, Minnie in a holiday dress, and the princesses wearing winter-themed gowns.

Photo opportunities with these festively dressed characters are available throughout the ship, giving families the chance to capture holiday memories with their favorite Disney friends. Check the daily navigator on the cruise app for character meet-and-greet schedules to make sure you don’t miss any magical moments.

Exclusive Holiday Entertainment

Disney’s Holiday cruises feature exclusive holiday-themed entertainment that adds an extra sparkle to each evening. Expect Broadway-caliber shows with a festive twist, as well as special performances crafted just for the holiday season.

“Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” – Disney’s beloved musical inspired by Frozen brings added enchantment during the holiday season, inviting guests to experience the winter wonderland of Arendelle
Holiday Movie Marathons – Cozy up in the onboard theater or poolside to watch classic Disney holiday movies like “The Santa Clause” and “Mickey’s Christmas Carol.”
Fireworks at Sea on certain sailings – Weather permitting, Disney’s iconic fireworks show adds holiday music for a festive spectacle over the ocean—perfect for ending a night of Holiday magic.

Holiday Dining and Treats

Disney Cruise Line’s chefs create special holiday treats and menus for Very Merrytime Cruises, allowing families to enjoy seasonal flavors and festive feasts together. Each night, dining rooms serve holiday-themed dishes inspired by the season, along with decadent desserts and themed cocktails.

For those with a sweet tooth, Disney has plenty to offer. You’ll find holiday cookies, peppermint desserts, hot cocoa, and specialty drinks that warm the spirit. On Christmas Day, Disney hosts a special holiday dinner with traditional favorites like roast turkey, ham, stuffing, and all the fixings.

For adults, consider dining at Palo or Remy, Disney’s upscale restaurants, where chefs create special holiday menus that put a gourmet twist on seasonal flavors.

Christmas Day at Sea

Celebrating Christmas Day on a Disney cruise is a unique and heartwarming experience. The day is packed with activities, starting with a holiday-themed breakfast, followed by character appearances, holiday crafts, and themed entertainment. The ship hosts a Christmas service, allowing guests to celebrate the season in a spiritual way if they choose. Please inquire at guest services about other spiritual services that may be available on board.

Santa even makes a special appearance with his sack of gifts, adding a bit of traditional holiday cheer. In the evening, families can gather for a holiday dinner, complete with all the seasonal dishes you’d expect at home. With holiday movies, festive décor, and Disney magic everywhere you look, spending the holidays at sea is an unforgettable way to celebrate.

Is a Disney Very Merrytime Holiday Cruise Right for You?

Disney’s Very Merrytime Cruises offer a unique blend of holiday spirit and Disney magic that’s hard to beat.

Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the season or just want to make unforgettable holiday memories with your family, these cruises are the perfect setting. With special activities for all ages, festive décor, and beloved Disney characters in holiday attire, it’s an experience that truly brings the season to life.

Let us at Your Fairytale Vacation help you plan the holiday of a lifetime with Disney Cruise Line. We’ll handle every detail so you can focus on the magic. Book here to start planning your Holiday vacation at sea!