Illuminations or Wishes Cruise

[walls1999]

Has anyone done either of these? Do you have a favorite between the two? We are a group of ten with little kids. I thought this would be better than trying to fight the crowds.

 

[dhcoffey]

We just did the Illuminations cruise in April. We haven't done the Wishes cruise, so I can't comment about that one. We did the birthday cruise with DH, myself, DD12, DD7, and a friend 12. The kids loved it. They even were allowed to drive the boat and thought that was fantastic. We would definitely do it again on our next trip.

 

[CA Disney Fans]

We were lucky enough to do both cruises last trip. It was DH, DS10 and DMom. Both are great and have certain things about them that we like. Wishes - see the water parade by the WL before seeing Wishes, nice view of Wishes over Main Street buildings and train station. IllumiNations - boat "docks" under the bridge by International Gateway, it's a great view, comfortable seats, can sit back and relax and see people crammed around the railings along the lagoon.

We were fortunate that the breeze was pushing the smoke in the opposite direction for IllumiNations.

DH likes Wishes one more. I think it's because Wishes was more private. And Illuminations you have other boats right next to you.

I prefer IllumiNations cruise because you're right there and I love the lighting of the different countries. It's quite loud though, since you're so close.

BTW, IllumiNations cruises book faster than Wishes ones.

 

[Crazy Hakim]

BTW, IllumiNations cruises book faster than Wishes ones.

"Supply & Demand"

There are only 6 Boats available for IllumiNations (Breathless and 5 Pontoons). That is why this sells out so quickly. Whereas, at Wishes, boats are dispatched from Wilderness Lodge The Contemp, The Grand and The Poly, there can be upwards of 15 boats, plus The Grand 1 Yacht, plus Two Grand Gathering Boats.

 

[gigi1313]

we did the wishes pontoon premium cruise last january and it was absolutely magnificent! i'd do it again in a heartbeat... enjoy!

 

[Buzz2001]

Done the Illuminations cruise 3 times but now that the price has gone up, I may have to rethink it for future trips. It is great though and if you can swing it with other families, the cost is more in line.

 

[gigi1313]

how far in advance can the cruises be booked?