Whether It’s Land or Sea, It’s Disney for Me!
Hi everyone! We’re Stacy and Allison, and today, we wanted to chat together about comparing two different types of vacations – trips to Walt Disney World and sailing the seas with Disney Cruise Line!
As you’ll see further in our Q&A with one another, everyone’s preferences and points of view are unique, but before we get into that, let us introduce ourselves!
My name is Allison, and I am a Senior Vacation Coordinator and Social Media Specialist at David’s! I have been with DVCR since the summer of 2018, have taken three trips to Walt Disney World, and cruised once.
My name is Stacy, and I am a Lead Vacation Coordinator, Cruise Specialist, and Social Media Specialist at David’s! I have been with DVCR since July 2016, took my first Disney cruise in 2018, and have since cruised multiple times!
Now, let’s dive into our dual Q&A!
What is your favorite thing about cruising?
Allison: As a first-time cruiser, there were so many things to take in on my first sailing. The moment I walked onto the ship, I was amazed. From being welcomed onboard, the stunning décor, the endless ice cream and food options, and the impeccable service, I was sold on the experience. My favorite thing about cruising is that there are so many different things for guests to enjoy. You can sit by the pool, go to the theatre, do some shopping, hop off at the port, visit the spa, sing your heart out at Karaoke, and more.
Stacy: For me, it would have to be that all my favorite parts of a vacation are wrapped up in one! I can see different places without having to pack/unpack multiple times. There’s no need to plan the intricate details of traditional land vacations that include numerous destinations – it’s all taken care of for you on the ship! Plus, having the same Cast Members throughout your voyage means they get to know you better and makes the service exceptional! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the magic of Disney’s incredible innovation, entertainment, and storytelling in locations all over the world!
What is your favorite thing about visiting WDW?
Allison: When visiting WDW, the thing I’m always excited about is the endless food options. Whether at a resort or in one of the parks, I always find myself thinking about all the snacks I am going to indulge in. I can travel anywhere on Disney property and find some unbelievable meals or quick bites to eat, and I will say I enjoyed them all (especially the lovely candied bacon skewer over in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom!)
Stacy: WDW feels like home, and there is so much to see and do! There’s a sense of familiarity and nostalgia with the parks and resorts that puts you at ease and makes you giddy even before you arrive! The magic of stepping onto Main Street and getting that first glimpse of Cinderella Castle, feeling the butterflies in your tummy waiting for the drop on Tower or Terror, sinking my teeth into a Mickey bar, and hearing the words “welcome home” when arriving at my resort are some of my favorite feelings in the world!
What do you think are the biggest differences and similarities between the two types of trips?
Allison: When traveling to WDW, I find that I am on the go from start to finish! These trips are so much fun and have so much for anyone, myself included, to enjoy. I will always find something new to do! Compared to a cruise, the pace of these trips is a bit different, but I would recommend either to anyone!
I do find similarities in the trips too. With lots of different things to see and do, DCL has incorporated its own way for you to still get the type of experiences you would at WDW but modified. You won’t find rides on the ships themselves. However, you can still see and meet characters, enjoy lots of cool and new interactive experiences, see fireworks, and have that Disney Magic wherever you go.
Stacy: I think the biggest difference is the level of planning. When traveling to WDW, there is a lot of planning to do! DVC resort reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance. Then, there are Park Pass Reservations, Advance Dining Reservations, Disney Genie+, Lightning Lane selections, and more! With cruising, you choose your sailing and stateroom, and maybe some excursions or onboard activities such as a visit to the spa or a special character meet and greet in advance. Otherwise, your dinners are already arranged, and you can choose activities from the entertainment schedule once you embark on your voyage!
I’d say the biggest similarity is that “Disney bubble” feeling! There is magic all around, whether your feet are strolling the decks of a ship or the pavement in the parks. The accommodations are cozy, with cute character details, the food is delicious, and there is always something fun to do!
What does a cruise offer that a WDW trip doesn’t?
Allison: Whenever I go on a WDW trip, it is go-time from the moment you’re off the plane and on your way to check-in. It is lots of fun, but there is so much to take in, and therefore I do find these trips more fast-paced. On my first-ever cruise, I felt very relaxed and had the opportunity to wander around the ship and really find activities and areas that best suited me!
Stacy: Like you said, Allison, I think there’s an extra sense of relaxation on a cruise that I don’t find at WDW. When I’m on a traditional Disney World trip, it’s fast-paced, action-packed, and go-go-go until it’s wheels up and time to head home. On a cruise, my pace is more laid back! I’ll linger over meals, kick back and take in the view from the ship, enjoy conversations over drinks in the lounges, and let things happen more spontaneously.
What does a WDW trip offer that a cruise doesn’t?
Allison: One thing WDW does have that I feel you won’t find on a cruise is the diverse food options. Whatever food items you are looking for and/or want to try, Disney can provide them. I am a foodie, and WDW is one of the best places to try something new or stick to what you know… either way, I know there is always an option I’ll love.
Stacy: Because of the sheer size of WDW, there’s more variety there. DCL currently has five ships at sea, yet there are about a dozen DVC resorts. Each ship has three main dining rooms, whereas there are hundreds of eateries at WDW. Each ship has three main stage shows versus the multitude of entertainment options and attractions found in the parks. If you visit WDW multiple times, you can easily not repeat anything on each trip! When cruising, the options are more limited, though I must admit that even after sailing on the same ship multiple times, I haven’t experienced everything!
What would be your dream cruise destination?
Allison: After my first-ever cruise with Disney, I couldn’t stop thinking about all the future cruises I wanted to take. My dream destination is Alaska, and I cannot wait for the day I get to experience this. With the different ports of call and port adventures, along with the ship itself, it is calling my name!
Stacy: I have so many cruise dreams, it’s hard to narrow it down to just one! I would say it would be a toss-up between the South Pacific and Northern Europe! I’ve never been anywhere in those regions personally, and they’re both high on my travel wish list.
What is your dream DVC resort stay?
Allison: If I could choose anywhere to stay on property at WDW, there is no question in my mind that it would be the Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian. With its Victorian elegance and all the fine details around the resort, it always amazes me.
Stacy: All of them! If I have to choose just one at WDW, Disney’s Riviera Resort is currently at the top of my wish list!
Ultimately, which do you prefer? A Disney cruise or a WDW vacation?
Allison: Although I love both, I think it all depends on the type of trip I want to have. I would have to say I think I’ve become a cruiser and cannot wait to sail again! I loved all the different activities and shows on board. This totally suited my vacation needs, and I highly recommend anyone who has not cruised to give it a go!
Stacy: The short answer is both! While both types of trips perfectly encapsulate the magic of Disney, because they’re so different, it’s so challenging to choose just one! As I get older, I find I enjoy the more relaxing pace of a cruise, yet because I love all the resorts and attractions at WDW, I absolutely cherish my trips there! I think a combination land and sea trip might be perfect for me!
Whether by land or sea (or both), you can’t go wrong with a magical Disney trip! Let us know what type of vacation is your favorite!
~Allison & Stacy
