Cruise lines: Disney Cruise Line vs. Princess Cruises
Quick Verdict
Disney Cruise Line is ideal for families seeking a fully immersive Disney experience, while Princess Cruises caters to a broader audience with diverse itineraries and a focus on enrichment and relaxation.
- Disney Cruise Line is more focused on family-friendly experiences with themed kids' clubs and Disney entertainment.
- Princess Cruises offers a wider variety of itineraries and destinations with more emphasis on enrichment programs and diverse entertainment.
- Both cruise lines have additional costs for specialty dining, drinks, and some activities.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Disney Cruise Line | Princess Cruises |
|---|---|---|
| Price per person | Varies from $700 to $5,500+ | Varies |
| Cabin size and amenities | Inside cabins range from 169 to 184 sq ft. Deluxe Family Verandah cabins are up to 304 sq ft. Concierge one-story Royal Suites are 1,507 sq ft. | Inside Cabins: Newer ships (166-175 sq ft), older ships (156-166 sq ft). Balcony Cabins: Newer ships (181 sq ft interior + 41 sq ft balcony). Premium deluxe balcony cabins (up to 233 sq ft interior). |
| Dining options and quality | Rotational dining, specialty dining options like Palo and Remy are available for an extra charge. | Multiple dining venues, including main dining rooms, buffets, and specialty restaurants. Specialty restaurants often cost extra. |
| Entertainment and shows | Broadway-style musicals, first-run Disney films, deck parties. | Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy, Movies Under the Stars, Princess Live! interactive entertainment. |
| Childcare and kids' programs | "it's a small world" nursery! (ages 6 months to 3 years), Disney's Oceaneer Club/Lab (ages 3 to 10), Edge (ages 11 to 14), Vibe (ages 14 to 17). | The Treehouse (ages 3-7), The Lodge (ages 8-12), and The Beach House (ages 13-17). Group kidsitting is available for a fee. |
| Ship size and passenger capacity | Disney Adventure: 6,000 passengers. Disney Wish and Treasure: 4,000 passengers. Disney Fantasy and Dream: 4,000 passengers. Disney Magic and Wonder: 2,400-2,700 passengers. | Varies depending on the ship. Largest ship holds 4,300 passengers, smallest holds around 2,000. |
| Inclusions | Base fare includes onboard accommodations, meals, and entertainment. Additional costs include gratuities, alcoholic drinks, specialty dining, and some activities. | Standard fares include accommodations, meals in main dining areas, and entertainment. Drinks and Wi-Fi are not included in the base fare but can be purchased separately or as part of the "Princess Plus" or "Princess Premier" packages. |
Overall Comparison
Family Focus: Disney wins; Itineraries: Princess wins; Inclusions: Similar base fare, additional costs for both
Pros and Cons
Disney Cruise Line
Pros:
- Family-friendly cabins
- Rotational dining
- Broadway-style musicals
- First-run Disney films
- Themed kids' clubs
- Private islands (Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay)
Cons:
- Generally more expensive than mainstream cruise lines
- Additional costs for specialty dining and some activities
Princess Cruises
Pros:
- Wide variety of itineraries and destinations
- Multiple dining options
- Diverse entertainment options
- Age-appropriate kids' programs
- Warm and welcoming service
- Ample open space on decks for relaxation
Cons:
- Additional costs for drinks, Wi-Fi, and specialty dining
- Base fares may seem lower, but additional costs can add up
- Larger ships can feel crowded
User Experiences and Feedback
Disney Cruise Line
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- Inside cabins are the most affordable.
Princess Cruises
What Users Love
- Offers a wide variety of entertainment, including Broadway-style shows, live music, movies, and comedy.
- Known for its warm and welcoming service.
- Princess ships are known for having ample open space on their decks for relaxation.
Common Complaints
- Base fares may seem lower, but the additional costs for things like drinks and Wi-Fi can add up.
- Larger ships have more venues and activities, but can feel more crowded.
Value Perception
- Balcony cabins offer a good balance of space and amenities.
- Inside cabins are the most economical, but can feel small.
User Recommendations
- The main dining rooms offer multi-course meals at no extra charge.
- Specialty restaurants provide an elevated dining experience for an additional fee.