Author Archives: Maureen Roberts

I spend a lot of time on my Facebook page talking about and promoting vacations in Walt Disney World. This is mostly because, of all of the Disney vacation options, this is the most popular destination.

However, I’ve realized that this means that I neglect the other amazing vacation destinations and that is not my intent.

Without further ado, let’s talk about cruising—Disney style!

Of all of the Disney vacation destinations, THIS one is actually my favorite. I actually even gave my kids a choice for our next Disney vacation- Walt Disney World or a Disney Cruise—and they unanimously opted for the cruise.

So here we are planning for our next sailing in the Western Caribbean with a Star Wars Day at Sea, and my whole family couldn’t be happier.

What sets Disney apart from other cruise lines (and other vacations for that matter), is their attention to detail and their impeccable reputation and customer service. People see the Disney brand and know to expect all of those things. Disney Cruise Line is no exception.

Clearly, the cruises excel in their ability to truly cater to families. Staterooms are designed to accommodate larger parties with a split bath option, allowing for more space and for several people to get ready at the same time.

Obviously, there are no other cruise lines that can compare to the quality of children and teen programming on the Disney Cruise Line. This programming even extends to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, with exciting activities and even a private, teens-only area of the beach!

Speaking of Castaway Cay, I have sailed on other cruise lines and none of those private islands even remotely compares to that of Disney’s. There are more options for excursions on this island than I can even list. You can even participate in a fun 5k run!

Guests feel so strongly about Castaway Cay that I’ve even heard of people booking shorter back-to-back cruise itineraries in order to get multiple days on Castaway Cay.

The quality of the ships themselves is spectacular. Disney’s attention to detail is evident at every turn. The food is the best I’ve had on any ship. The pools are clean. The activities are plentiful and the stage shows are Broadway quality. The theming throughout the ships is elegant: still giving the Disney fan a taste of Disney theming, but in a way that is classy, not cheesy.

And these cruises are not just for families! Adults can enjoy an adults-only pool, restaurants, the spa, bars and nightclubs, and an adults-only section of the beach on Castaway Cay which is truly secluded from the noise of the family section.

And finally, shore excursions offered on Disney Cruise Line are top notch! The Disney Company is fiercely protective of its’ brand name and requires partner companies to meet very stringent requirements in order to even be eligible to offer services to its’ clients. What does this mean? It means that you know that in every port, the excursions will not only be fun, they will be safe, organized, and top rated.

This is just a brief summary of all of the options and opportunities awarded to guests aboard the Disney Cruise Line. As always, please contact me if you’d like more information or a no obligation quote. Happy sailing!!!

Look… the decision to travel during this time of uncertainty is DEEPLY personal. I can’t tell you what to do. But I CAN help you access the information you need in order to make the decision that’s best for you and your family. Here are the top things to consider to keep you (and your wallet) safe:

1. Be sure you understand all cancellation policies. Know, in advance, the deadline for cancelling and make sure you read the fine print about fees. Always pay with a credit card so that you have an extra layer of protection in your corner. For even more security, consider adding travel protection. HOWEVER, be sure you understand the policy completely and know what they do and do not cover. Oftentimes, cancellations due to the pandemic are excluded.

2. Keep track of any possible travel restrictions both in your home state as well as any regulations or restrictions in your destination. Some states require a quarantine period. Florida, for example, has imposed a mandatory 14 day quarantine for visitors from New York. And New York requires a mandatory 14 day quarantine upon return.

3. Familiarize yourself with the sanitation and safety regulations at your destination. How are they cleaning and disinfecting between guests? How are they minimizing interactions with staff and enforcing social distancing in public spaces? How is the area, in general, handling their COVID cases and what is the ratio of positive cases?

4. Do your research regarding dining, entertainment and amenities. Are restaurants open for dining in or are they still limited to take out? Are tourist locations open for business? Are they limiting admission to parks and beaches? Will there be enough options for you and your family during your stay?

5. Now, more than ever, it is critical that you book your vacation with a travel agent. At Kingdom and Cruise Travel, we make it our business to keep up-to-date with the ever changing rules and regulations that impact your travel. We know the individual policies of each destination- policies that are changing sometimes DAILY. We will navigate the sea of information for you. You’ll have us in your corner!