I had the amazing opportunity to tour the Disney Wonder while it was at port here in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia. The Disney Wonder is currently cruising up to Alaska and back for the summer season. After checking in and getting my security clearance, our group was headed off to board.
Upon stepping into the Grand Hall guests are announced over the speakers, marking the beginning of their journey on board. It's a truly special touch and while our group wasn't introduced, at the end of our tour we got to watch as other parties boarded and you could really see the impact this personal touch had on everyone from the youngest to most seasoned of travellers.
Next we stopped by Azure which hosts family-friendly activities during the day. At night however, this lounge transforms into a haven for adults only. As Disney describes, "Celebrating the breathtaking beauty of the big blue, Azure invites you to make waves inside a trendy nightclub designed to look like the ocean. The lounge—awash with a bar, dance floor and plenty of seating—features flowing, curvy walls reminiscent of the ever changing current."
Continuing on with the lounge theme, we stopped by Crown & Fin, modelled after a village tavern that transports you to a "local" public house with traditional decor and even a red phone booth photo op. Had I been more comfortable with my tour mates at this point I'd have probably snagged a shot of myself in it, but alas. The mood in here was super authentic and with tons of televisions and games I can presume it's a popular hang out on board!
Next was the Cadillac Lounge, an adults only nightclub, which I found beyond cool. It really felt retro, and we were told that every time they've suggested a refresh the loyalists have stood firm on their wish to have it remain. And I can see why! It's a really unique spot that I would love to experience with the live piano and guest vocalists in action.
Finally we stopped by the French Quarter Lounge which for a fan of The Princess and the Frog was such a highlight. I loved the casual elegance and whimsical touches of Mardi Gras and New Orleans, and could definitely see this as my preferred spot to enjoy a drink.
We followed this with a visit to the rotational dining experiences. If you aren't familiar with Disney Cruise Line's rotational dining concept this is how they describe it:
"Rotational dining is the Disney Cruise Line way of making sure that all Guests get to enjoy each of the 3 themed dining venues while on board. You will receive your restaurant schedule and table number upon arrival by checking your Disney Cruise Line Navigator App. Then, each evening, you, your tablemates and servers will rotate to a different restaurant. As you rotate, the same wait staff—who know your preferences—will serve you each night while you get to experience the unique atmosphere of each dining venue. Children's menus are available in all the restaurants in your rotation."
Your party will either be at the main seating or the late seating and can be selected when booking your cruise.
Tiana's Place is up first. Once again, themed after The Princess and the Frog, Tiana's Place is a nod to Louisiana cuisine with creole and cajun "grub" and live jazz music.
Animator's Palate is a fan-favourite with potential character sightings as well as an interactive component as you draw on your table and it comes to life on the screens around you.
While we go to see the space, I wasn't able to take photos as the restaurant had not yet been set for service.
With wonky lines and pops of color amongst the black and white theming reminiscent of early animation drawings, it really is a great family friendly space.
Finally we land upon Triton's, which we sadly could not enter as it was fully prepared for concierge guests to be arriving any moment, but we were able to peek our heads through the windows.
Themed after The Little Mermaid, it's a stylish elegant space with a beautiful mosaic upon its back wall. Triton's serves up classic American cooking for breakfast as well as lunch, while for dinner service you can expect continental cuisine with a French flair.
Moving up to the deck we have a quick self-service beverage area. On board you'll find complimentary sodas, coffee, teas, and hot chocolate. Just help yourself!
Dory's Reef is a splash zone for the smallest of cruise'rs and if your child isn't yet toilet trained (ie. would require a swim diaper) this is the only area they'll be allowed as they are not permitted in the pools.
The outdoor sport zone was hopping already when we were touring. Basketball and foosball among other things in a safe contained netted area. Relax poolside at a family pool or adults only sections. Lots of spaces to spread out.
We also got to tour the dedicated youth spaces on board from babies to teens there's truly something for everyone! While I resisted the urge to try out the guitar hero, the automatic hand washing stations were something I just had to test out. What a brilliant contraption. It automates the process with jet streams of water and soap in a timed sequence, making hand washing dare I say fun!?
They host open houses so families can familiarize with the areas and decide if it's something they feel comfortable with but they take security very seriously on board and despite being myself being a bit of a helicopter parent, I would fully entrust my kids to their team after what I saw! Be sure to talk to them when you board if you have any questions or concerns and I'm sure they'll do a great job at easing your worries.
The Wonder has so much to cover and I can't possibly due justice to all of the amenities and offerings on board. From Palo signature dining, to theatres for both movies and live performances, spa services & suites, and dedicated concierge level lounges, there really is a space for everything you can imagine!
As soon as I left the Disney Wonder I began to wonder myself about the other ships in the Disney fleet and went down a rabbit hole about all the different unique offerings on board the various cruises. The excitement over the Disney difference felt on board made me immediately plan a trip for my family aboard the Disney Wish. I'm sure it won't be our last.
So with that I'll leave you to do your own digging. Feel free to check out more about the Disney Cruise Line here, and reach out to me with questions anytime at ogallie@puremagicvacations.ca
-Liv ✨
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