Royal Caribbean Cruise Line vs Disney Cruise Line
We offer both! Which cruise line is right for your family?
Price Comparison
Royal Caribbean (RCCL): Typically less expensive than Disney, with more budget-friendly options, especially on older ships. Offers frequent deals and promotions. (Note: Their newer ships will be similar in price to Disney Cruise Line)
Disney Cruise Line (DCL): Considered a premium cruise line, with higher base prices. Fewer discounts but includes more family-friendly amenities and entertainment in the base fare. Known for exceptional service.
What’s Included in the Price?
Accommodations Both
Meals
RCCL: main dining rooms, buffets, some casual spots
DCL: Main dining rooms, buffets, more specialty dining included
Soft Drinks
RCCL: No (only in buffet at breakfast/lunch)
DCL: Yes (unlimited soft drinks at drink stations)
Alcohol
RCCL: No (drink packages available)
DCL: No (drink packages available)
Room Service
RCCL: Some free options, but fees apply after certain hours
DCL: Included
Kids’ Clubs
RCCL: Yes (Adventure Ocean, some activities may have fees)
DCL: Yes (all youth clubs included, more immersive)
Broadway-Style Shows
RCCL: Yes (like Cats, Mamma Mia, Grease)
DCL: Yes (Disney-themed shows, exclusive productions)
Character Meet & Greets
RCCL: Limited (DreamWorks on some ships, now phasing out)
DCL: Extensive (Disney/Pixar/Marvel/Star Wars characters)
Water Parks/Slides
RCCL: Yes (varies by ship, includes FlowRider, slides)
DCL: Yes (Varies by ship, AquaDuck/AquaMouse on select ships)
Private Island Access
RCCL: Yes (CocoCay/Labadee, varies by itinerary)
DCL: Yes (Castaway Cay plus private beach Lookout Point)
Ports & Destinations
BOTH:
Caribbean & Bahamas, Mexico, Alaska, Europe, Hawaii (limited sailings), Australia/New Zealand, Transatlantic, Panama Canal
Royal Caribbean:
Asia, South Pacific
Other Key Differences
Entertainment
Royal Caribbean: Known for high-energy, Broadway-style shows, ice skating, AquaTheater performances, and immersive activities like escape rooms, laser tag, and virtual reality.
Disney Cruise Line: Focuses on themed entertainment with Broadway-caliber Disney shows, deck parties (Pirate Night), and first-run Disney movies in the onboard theater.
Family & Kid-Friendliness
Royal Caribbean: Great for families but caters to a broad audience, including adults and couples. Offers water parks, kids’ clubs, and family-friendly shows.
Disney Cruise Line: More family-centric with a stronger focus on Disney characters, storytelling, and kid-friendly experiences. Fewer adult-only spaces compared to RCL.
Cleanliness & Service
Royal Caribbean: Very clean, with excellent service, though slightly more mass-market.
Disney Cruise Line: Exceptional cleanliness and service, with more personalized attention and Disney-level standards.
Food & Dining
Royal Caribbean: Many dining options, but some specialty restaurants require extra fees. Food quality varies by ship.
Disney Cruise Line: Higher food quality overall, with rotational dining (guests rotate between themed restaurants while keeping the same waitstaff). More specialty dining options are included in the base fare.
Adult & Luxury Options
Royal Caribbean: More adult nightlife, casinos, and a broader range of specialty dining and bars. Has upscale suite experiences (Royal Suite Class).
Disney Cruise Line: No casinos, but offers adult-only lounges, restaurants (Palo, Remy), spas, and serene spaces. Also has premium suite options.
Which One Do We Recommend?
Best For...
Royal Caribbean Disney Cruise Line
Families ✔ (especially active families) ✔✔ (Disney magic everywhere)
Couples/Adults ✔✔ (nightlife, casinos, spas) ✔ (great adult only areas but fewer adult activities)
Budget Travelers ✔✔ (more affordable options) no (higher price point)
Luxury Travelers ✔ (Suite Class) ✔✔ (Concierge Level, personalized service)
Best Entertainment ✔✔ (Broadway, shows, thrill rides) ✔✔ (Disney-themed productions, immersive experiences)
Final Thoughts
Royal Caribbean is better for those looking for more adult only action, variety, and budget-friendly options. It has more destinations, bigger ships, and a mix of family/adult experiences.
Disney Cruise Line is ideal for families with young kids, and those who want exceptional service, cleanliness, and an immersive, high-quality experience with a focus on service and themed entertainment.