By: Yvette Ihrig, a Marvelous Mouse Travels agent
Going on a Disney Cruise and not sure what to expect with Disney’s new protocols? Disney Cruise Line protocols are being adjusted as needed so they can be as safe as they possibly can be. The following might not be exactly your experience, but it will give you an idea of what to expect. Disney did an amazing job making sure we were safe while on the cruise. We wore our masks indoors, but we did not mind. Here are some protocol highlights.
- Disney requires all passengers 12 and older to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before boarding any cruise headed to the Bahamas. This includes the company's private island, Castaway Cay. Children under 12 are exempt and will be allowed to board with proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken between five days and 24 hours before their departure as well as a second PCR test taken at the terminal before boarding.
- The cruise is sailing at about 1/3 capacity. I felt as though I had the ship (and the characters) to myself, and we really appreciated the extra elbow room.
- Muster Drill – I personally hope they keep it this way. Upon boarding we connected to the ships wifi and registered for the muster on the Disney Cruise Navigator App. We were instructed to go to our muster station, where we had to scan the muster sign as instructed by the app and the rest of the muster, we watched on the big pool deck screen or on any TV on the ship. No more crowding in the corridors!
- Crew Members help encourage social distancing while constantly cleaning and wiping down banisters and other areas of the ship.
- Buffets were still in dining areas, but Crew Members served your requests, including drink stations.
- Main dining rooms - just as wonderful as ever! Tables are socially distanced, but the restaurants still feel full and lively! Menus are all online via QR code. You can even order off the menus of other dining rooms if you'd prefer. You'd like to try several different entrees or desserts? Still no problem! Rotational dining is still in effect and is strictly your family; no combining parties. In the Enchanted Garden you will be treated to a fun show near the end of your meals with Mickey and Minnie!
- The Disney Theatre still provided entertainment, but you were seated every other row with three empty seats between you and the next party.
- During Dance Parties (and fireworks) families were kept socially distanced with designated “blue dot” areas.
- Guest Services and other departments were accessible by practicing social distancing in the line. Fast service, helpful and very responsive.
- Kids Club (Oceaneer Club) was operational! However, you had to schedule a block of time during the day to keep the children in smaller groups.
- Castaway Cay was so much fun, we enjoyed the day relaxing and playing in the ocean. Snorkeling and Tube rentals are available. They did have us wear our masks while riding the Tram, but we hardly even noticed it. You could also choose to walk if you prefer.
My final thoughts:
Disney makes it safe and easy to travel. If your vaccinated and want to cruise, go now! Take advantage of low capacity, discounts, and happy sailing!
Please reach out to Yvette, an agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels to plan your next vacation or you may contact Marvelous Mouse Travels.
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