Deck the halls, because it’s almost time to trade tinsel for turquoise waters! If your family’s holiday wish list includes “more days at sea” (because honestly, whose doesn’t?!), then Disney Cruise Line’s Very Merrytime Cruises need to be on your radar this year.
What Is a Very Merrytime Cruise?
A Very Merrytime Cruise is Disney’s way of bringing all the warmth and wonder of the holiday season straight to the high seas. Picture your favorite Disney ship transformed into a floating winter wonderland: sparkling décor around every corner, seasonal entertainment, and magical touches you won’t find any other time of year.
These special sailings run from November through the end of December, so it’s never too early to start planning! Whether this is a bucket-list trip or simply your family’s new way of getting everyone together under one roof (er, one hull), a Very Merrytime cruise is the kind of gift that belongs wrapped up and under the tree.
Very Merrytime sailings are available on select itineraries departing from:
- Port Canaveral, Florida
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Galveston, Texas
- San Diego, California
What’s Included on a Very Merrytime Cruise?
In one word: magic. Stern to bow, top to bottom, magic.
You’ll still get everything you already love about a Disney cruise: nightly rotational dining, Broadway-caliber shows in the Walt Disney Theatre, and a pool deck with something for every age. Add in endless hot chocolate and all the soft-serve ice cream your kiddos can dream of, and you’ve barely scratched the surface!
Very Merrytime sailings turn the holiday magic up to a solid 25, with:
- Christmas trees and holiday decorations throughout the ship
- Characters dressed in their festive best
- Specialty holiday snacks, food, and drinks
- Special deck parties and themed activities
Mickey & Minnie’s Merrytime Tree Lighting
There’s something so cozy about gathering with fellow guests as Mickey and friends light the ship’s holiday tree. It’s one of those quintessential Very Merrytime moments, equal parts heartwarming and spectacular, and it sets the tone for the whole sailing.
Mickey and Minnie’s Holiday Party
Head up to the top decks for good tidings, music, and cheer as everyone celebrates friendship, love, and family. Expect festive décor, a high-energy atmosphere, and plenty of holiday spirit!
Themed Activities and Crafts for Kids
From ornament making to festive crafts, there are hands-on activities throughout the sailing that turn holiday cheer into memory-making moments for the young and young at heart alike.
How to Make the Most of Your Very Merrytime Cruise
Every family has their own holiday traditions; a Very Merrytime cruise is the perfect place to blend the old with the new. Snap next year’s holiday card photo at one of the many festive picture spots, cozy up with a cup of hot cocoa for some quality time with grandma, or keep an eye out for the big guy in red himself. That’s right, friends: Santa makes frequent appearances onboard throughout the sailing!
One of my favorite planning tips: download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app before you sail. It’s the easiest way to stay on top of the daily schedule so you don’t miss a single festive moment! It also lets you browse extras like spa services and onboard recreation if those are must-haves for your family.
Ready to Sail Into the Season?
If a Very Merrytime cruise sounds like exactly the kind of holiday magic your family needs this year, I would love to help you plan it. As an authorized Disney travel agent with Genie Travel Company, I handle all the details (at no extra cost to you!) so all you have to do is show up ready for hot cocoa, tree lightings, and a Santa sighting or two.
Reach out today and let’s get your family’s holiday cruise on the calendar before the best staterooms sail away!
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