The many perks of sailing with Disney Cruise Line include the activities available to kids of all ages. (Yes, we’re talking about adult “kids” here, too!) Disney has activities throughout the ship, designed with the whole family in mind, but certain spaces are only for kids.
My kids behave quite differently in group settings and new situations. One’s very social, and the other one’s more shy. Yet both of them absolutely adore Disney cruises, and the kids-only spaces on-board. They used to spend time together in the ship’s Oceaneer’s Club. Now that they’re 10 and 15, they spend time in separate spaces.
The kids’ spaces on Disney’s newest ship, the Wish, are slightly different than those on other Disney Cruise Line ships. Each space is especially designed for particular age groups. All activities mentioned below are included with the cost of your sailing, except for It’s a Small World Nursery.
For Ages 6 months-3
It’s a Small World Nursery is a babysitting service for the smallest of cruisers. Movies, crafts, and games will keep the little ones entertained.
This service costs $9 an hour, with a minimum reservation time of an hour. Make advance reservations online, or when you arrive on the ship.
For Ages 3-12
The Oceaneer’s Club is a massive space that contains several themed areas.
Marvel Super Hero Academy is where young recruits train to become super heroes through activities and games. Super heroes will frequently drop in to say “hi” to the kids.
Star Wars: Cargo Bay makes kids feel like they’re on a spaceship. Here they’ll help handle some mischievous creatures before joining a mission with Rey and Chewbacca.
Fairytale Hall consists of several activity rooms where kids can play, craft, act, and meet Disney princesses.
Walt Disney Imagineering Lab is a hands-on space where kids learn the secrets of Disney Imagineers. At the ride studio, kids can design their own roller coaster, and then take it for a virtual spin.
Mickey & Minnie’s Captain’s Deck is a nautical themed playground. It’s the location for games, dancing and even STEAM activities.
Trained Disney counselors supervise kids inside the Oceaneer’s Club. Health and safety is a top priority here. Children must wash hands (using high-tech sinks!) upon arrival. Restrooms are located inside the Oceaneer’s Club so kids don’t need to leave the space to use the bathroom.
One of our favorite additions on the Wish is entrance to the Oceaneer’s Club via a twisty slide from the Grand Hall on deck 3.
KidTripster Tip: Complete the registration paperwork online before your cruise to streamline the check-in process. When you arrive on the ship, go to the front desk at the Oceaneer’s Club. Both parents and the child (or children) should be present. Kids will receive a wristband. Counselors will ask you to establish a password, to be used when picking up your kids.
KidTripster Tip: If your child is apprehensive about spending time in the kids club, download this free printable booklet. It lets kids (and parents!) know what to expect on the cruise and includes fun activities.
For Ages 11-14
Edge is the hangout spot for the tween crew. Cruisers ages 11-14 will want to spend time in this interactive play space, that’s designed to look like a trendy New York City loft. Edge has flat screen TVs for movies and video games.
KidTripster Tip: Parents may visit the clubs on the embarkation day. Take advantage of the open house to peek inside each space. Once the ship sets sail, parents aren’t allowed to enter. A family visit might make an anxious child feel more comfortable. Check the Disney Cruise Line app to find out the times for the Youth Activities Open House.
For Ages 14-17
The oldest kids on the ship have a unique hangout space called Vibe. A Parisian artists’ loft serves as the inspiration for the club. It’s vibrant and stylish. Kids can watch movies, play games, and participate in planned activities.
KidTripster Tip: Trained counselors supervise kids at Edge and Vibe. However, be aware that older kids are allowed check themselves in and out of the clubs. It’s important that you establish rules and meeting times. My daughter loved staying at Vibe until it closed at 1 a.m. After it closed, many of the kids wanted to continue hanging out on the ship’s deck. We established a curfew so that our daughter knew when she was expected to return to our cabin. You don’t need to have cell coverage to access the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. It has a chat feature that allows you to stay in touch with family members on-board the ship.
For Ages 18+
If you’re feeling jealous of all the kids-only spaces, get excited about the awesome adults-only areas. While the kids are occupied, we recommend soaking up the sun in the Quiet Cove or grabbing a quirky cocktail in the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge. You can also make a dining reservation at one of the adults-only restaurants.
Launched in 2022, the Disney Wish is Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship. The Wish sails out of Port Canaveral, Florida. Disney Cruise Line offers 3- and 4-night itineraries into the Caribbean, all of which include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.
