The Disney Wish, Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, is finally sailing the seas — here is a review where we answer the question: Is it worth it? Thank you Disney for the invite to check out the Disney Wish for a 3 day, 4 night cruise.
Disney Wish: Is It Worth It?
Being among the very first Disney Wish cruise with guests, the ship literally had that new ship smell when onboard. Everything was shiny and new, fresh and clean, and yes, they were still working out the kinks in a few places. That being said, this guest has been on several different Disney Cruise Line ships (as well as non-Disney cruise ships) and this is easily at the top of the list.
The attention to detail throughout the entire ship is incredible. Guests can spend hours looking at every nook and cranny and still not find everything that the Imagineers have hidden.
The Disney Wish Layout
The Disney Wish is a bit bigger than the other DCL ships we have experienced before (the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy). It has a similar, yet different, layout than we were used to. The most noticeable of which is the no mid-ship elevators.
This allows for a stage to be placed front and center in the Grand Hall (a replacement for the atrium), where characters will provide one of a kind entertainment during future cruises. There is a balcony up above the stage, and when families board the ship on embarkation day, they wave and greet you with warm, welcoming smiles.
That isn’t all the Grand Hall holds, for the first time ever, there is a slide from deck 3, down to the Oceaneer Club & Lab on deck 2. While this is strictly for children, adults are allowed to try it out during the open house hours.
The new design also has all of the main dining restaurants stacked above each other in the aft of the ship — on decks 3 (1923), deck 4 (Worlds of Marvel), and deck 5 (Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure). Deck 13 features the adult only sections such as Quiet Cove, which has a hot tub, a pool, a coffee shop, and stunning views.
The Walt Disney Theater is where the Broadway style shows can be seen, with seating on both decks 3 and 4, and wheelchair access on deck 2. The theater itself if similar to those on the other ships, but there certainly is an upgrade.
The technology has exceeded all things of the past, with a large screen in the back of the stage that is very much a part of the shows. That said, the primary seating is straight on, as some views are obstructed when on the sides.
When it comes to cinemas, there are two on the Disney Wish, and both of them are gorgeous. The Wonderland Cinema is themed towards, you guessed it, Alice in Wonderland, and Neverland showcases Peter Pan.
In between the theaters is a popcorn, soda, and candy stand, where you can stock up on goodies before the show starts. The best part about having two cinemas is that one will play the classics, while one will play new releases.
For those who are Disney Cruise pros, you already know they are top notch when it comes to entertainment for all ages. From drawing sessions, to trivia, to Bingo, to family games, there is so much to offer. While this was not all available during the Christening cruise, the new and improved main gaming room, Luna, is going to be the best place to hang out during cruises.
This main space is now two levels, found on decks 4 and 5, with movable chairs and tables. This allows it to be a place for games and trivia during the day, but a fun dance club at night. This room replaces several rooms on the previous ships, and is a great use of space. The upstairs level has televisions that look down on the main stage, so that guests who are seated there can get the best view.
What You Need To Know About The Disney Wish Staterooms
Disney Wish: Is It Worth It?
NEXT: 10 Ways Disney Wish Is Different From Other DCL Ships
Tessa Smith is a Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer-approved Film and TV Critic. She is also a Freelance Writer. Tessa has been in the Entertainment writing business for ten years and is a member of several Critics Associations including the Critics Choice Association and the Greater Western New York Film Critics Association.