10 Must-Do Activities for Kids on a Disney Cruise: The Ultimate Guide for Fun at Sea

Thinking of booking a Disney Cruise with kids? You’re in for a magical adventure! Disney Cruise Line is world-famous for its family-friendly atmosphere, beloved characters, and endless entertainment—especially for little ones. Whether it’s your child’s first time at sea or they’re seasoned junior cruisers, there’s no shortage of fun to be had.

Here are 10 must-do activities for kids on a Disney Cruise that will have them grinning from ear to ear—and talking about their holiday long after you’ve disembarked.

1. Join the Kids’ Clubs (Ages 3–17)

Disney Cruise Line offers age-specific clubs that are included in your fare and packed with immersive experiences:

• Oceaneer Club & Lab (ages 3–12): Think Marvel missions, Star Wars adventures, and Toy Story playrooms.
• Edge (11–14): Chill lounges, video games, and movie nights.
• Vibe (14–17): A cool teen space with music, smoothies, and dance parties.

Kids can dive into crafts, science experiments, storytelling, and more—while parents enjoy some guilt-free downtime.

2. Meet Disney Characters

From Mickey and Minnie to Elsa and Spider-Man, kids can meet their favourite characters across the ship. These aren’t rushed theme park-style meet-and-greets either—there’s time to chat, hug, and snap the perfect photo. Some meet-and-greets are scheduled, while others are delightful surprises.

3. Splash and Slide in the Pool Areas

Every Disney ship features family-friendly pool zones, with fun features like splash pads, fountains, and water slides. Ships like the Disney Wish and Dream even have the AquaDuck or AquaMouse—water coasters that twist and turn above the deck!

4. Watch Broadway-Style Shows

Kids (and grown-ups!) will love the nightly entertainment. Shows like Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid are full-scale, Broadway-quality productions included in your cruise fare. They’re magical, engaging, and perfect for family nights out at sea.

5. Enjoy Movie Time at Sea

Disney Cruise Line screens first-run movies—including new Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars films—at the Buena Vista Theatre and on the Funnel Vision screen by the pool. Movie nights under the stars? Yes, please.

6. Take Part in Pirate Night

Pirate Night is a Disney Cruise signature event, where the entire ship transforms into a swashbuckling celebration. Kids can dress up, join pirate-themed activities, enjoy a themed dinner, and finish the night with a fireworks display at sea!

7. Get Creative with Crafts and Games

Throughout the cruise, there are scheduled family-friendly activities like arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, bingo, and trivia. These offer a great opportunity for quality time and spark kids’ creativity.

8. Dine with Disney Magic

Each evening, you’ll rotate through different themed restaurants with your assigned wait staff following along. The dining rooms themselves are magical, from Animator’s Palate, where the walls come alive, to Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, where kids are entertained during their meal.

9. Participate in Deck Parties

Deck parties like the Sail-Away Celebration and themed nights are full of music, dancing, and character appearances. It’s the perfect chance for kids to let loose, meet new friends, and dance under the stars.

10. Visit Castaway Cay (on Select Cruises)

On select Disney cruises, you’ll visit Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise. There’s a supervised kids’ club on the beach, a splash zone, snorkeling lagoon, and plenty of space to explore and play.

💡 Note: For Disney Magic at Sea cruises from Australia, Castaway Cay is not included, but there’s still plenty of on-board fun!

Final Thoughts

A Disney Cruise is a dream holiday for families—and especially for kids. With thoughtfully designed kids’ clubs, magical entertainment, and countless activities around every corner, your children will never want to leave the ship. Whether you’re sailing from Sydney, Brisbane, or beyond, a Disney Cruise offers unforgettable experiences for cruisers of all ages.

Start packing those Mickey ears—adventure awaits!