Does he have an idea of which ship, time of year (school breaks, summer - or when there are fewer kids)? Maybe destination - even if just beach or not-beach focused.
Has he been to any Disney Park?
We could tell him that cruise ships, in general, have an excellent safety record. I haven’t heard of Disney ever having to put guests in lifeboats for evacuation. But the Muster Drill, done every cruise! keeps the crew practicing what to do. And the life boats are not little open boats. They are enclosed, protected from the elements. If he does a Bahamas cruise, they aren’t far from land at any time.
The unknown? Probably more likely something will happen in his own town.
I wrote this in an attempt to quell some possible concerns. It doesn’t cover everything but it is somewhat what I think of when thinking of Disney cruising. Not just cruising in general. Or ship specific.
You can share my opinion with him.
A great way to start cruising is a Disney 4- or 5-night cruise (which gives you 3- or 4- full days of activities). It’s long enough to try it out, but short enough that it is over soon if it’s not your liking.
The Bahamas were Disney’s original destination. And is still the main focus. They took a deserted island and groomed it into a relaxing beach destination (
Castaway Cay). The island is private; there will not be other people there. Loungers, umbrellas, towels, lunch are all provided.
This year, they added a second Bahamian destination on the island of Eleuthera. The Disney touches are still in the developing stage - foliage is small and sparse, but the sand and water are beautiful. Again, you just need to bring yourself and sunscreen.
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Disney cruise is designed to make cruising easy. It’s not flashy nor rushed. It’s not jam-packed with more to do than most people want.
It’s a chance to be out in the ocean, traveling to places you might never have been (and may consider your happy place after visiting).
The ships are well-maintained and safe. They have that touch of Disney art against the look of classic ocean liners.
Your dinner time and table follow a pattern that allows every guest to have a similar experience. No fear of missing out. Same goes for the evening stage show. There is enough seating for everyone, coordinated with your dinner schedule (they’ve got you covered).
Food options are not as varied on other cruise lines. But there is always something (included) to eat.
This is not a big drinking scene. But alcohol and specialty coffee is available. Pay as you go - no one has an unlimited drinking package. Sodas are included (Coke products).
…You can go on a Disney cruise with very little knowledge of the experience, very little planning, and just a few pointers - and have a great time. I did. I knew nothing. Had never cruised before. But I had a passport and a little time. Twenty-one cruises ago. That’s the hard part: if you enjoy it, you may want to go back, again and again.
