Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean: The Ultimate Comparison

Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean: The Ultimate Comparison

Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean: The Ultimate Comparison

Are you considering Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean for your next family vacation? You’re not alone! That’s why we have created this ultimate comparison guide to help you make the right decision for your family! Deciding between these two cruise lines can be like picking your favorite ice cream flavor – both are delightful but in different ways. As seasoned travel professionals who have a love for both theme parks and cruises, we are here to guide you through this exciting journey. Choosing a Royal Caribbean vs Disney Cruise doesn’t have to be difficult! But from what we found, it’s a lot of back and forth on their respective websites. So, we have put together this guide to help you compare the two cruise lines in one place. 

We hope you find this post helpful! And if you are planning a Disney Cruise Line Vacation, check out our other FREE vacation planning tools. Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time on your next vacation and find the cheapest Disney Cruise Line vacations!

Disney Cruise Line vs. Royal Caribbean

Embarking on a cruise is like stepping into a world of wonder, and when it comes to choosing between Disney Cruise Line vs Royal Caribbean, the decision becomes an even more intriguing adventure. As a seasoned traveler who has set sail numerous times on an adult only Disney Cruise vacation, I’ve experienced firsthand the enchantment that Disney uniquely provides on their ships. It’s perfect for those seeking a sprinkle of pixie dust and character-filled moments. Disney cruises are a dream come true for families and Disney aficionados alike. But what about Royal Caribbean? With its own set of charms and surprises, it caters to a different, yet equally thrilling, set of preferences. So, let’s dive into the specifics of each, exploring why you might choose one over the other for your next unforgettable vacation.

Choose Royal Caribbean for the Largest Selection of Suite Types and Perks

• Royal Caribbean stands out with its diverse array of suite options. From cozy interior rooms to sprawling Royal Suites, there’s something for every family size and budget. If you’re seeking a touch of luxury on vacation with a more reasonable price tag, Royal Caribbean is the ship for you!

Choose Disney for Truly Family-Friendly Accommodations

• Disney Cruise Line is the epitome of family-oriented cruising. Their staterooms are designed with families in mind, offering ample storage, split bathrooms (a godsend!), and whimsical touches that appeal to both kids and kids at heart. Disney Cruises has also always been my preferred cruise line for its impeccable customer service!

Related Post: Complete Guide to a Disney Cruise for Adults

Disney Cruise Line vs Royal Caribbean – The Basics

Routes

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Bahamas
• Western, Eastern, & Southern Caribbean
• Northern Europe
• Norwegian Fjords
• Mediterranean
• British Isles
• Bermuda
• Alaska
• Canada
• Mexican Riviera
• Baja
• Panama Canal
• Pacific Coast
• Transatlantic
• Hawaii
• South Pacific
• New Zealand & Australia
• Singapore – Sailing in 2025

Royal Caribbean:

• Caribbean
• Bahamas
• Alaska
• Mediterranean
• European
• Hawaii
• Greece & Greek Isles
• Mexico
• Bermuda
• New England
• Italy
• Baltic
• Canada
• Asia
• Florida
• Texas

Important to know:

When it comes to destinations, Disney Cruise Line vs Royal Caribbean both whisk travelers away on journeys filled with wonder and excitement. Each cruise line has a wonderful variety of routes that cater to any traveler’s dream. Each company also has its own private island. Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay offers diverse activities, including hot air balloon rides and a water park! Disney Cruise Line’s island, Castaway Cay, is an idyllic paradise exclusively for Disney cruisers. This serene haven is often cited as a pinnacle experience, offering families a unique blend of Disney magic and tropical bliss. We have to give this one to the Disney Cruise Line for their slightly more expansive destination list. The only downside of DCL’s routes is the missing stops in Greece and Italy in comparison to Royal Caribbean.

Related Post: When is the Cheapest Time to Go on a Disney Cruise?

Cabin Types – Royal Caribbean vs Disney Cruise

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Standard/Deluxe Inside
• Deluxe/Family Oceanview
• Deluxe/Family Oceanview with Verandah
• Concierge Family Oceanview
• Concierge Family Oceanview with Verandah
• Concierge 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites with Verandah
• Concierge Royal Suite with Verandah
• Concierge 1 & 2 Stroy Royal Suites with Verandah
• Concierge Wish and Treasure Tower Suites

Royal Caribbean:

• Interior Studio, Spacious, Virtual Balcony, and promenade View
• Oceanview Studio, Spacious, Ultra Spacious, & Spacious Panoramic
• Oceanview with Large Balcony Ocean View, Spacious Ocean View, & Ultra Spacious
• Oceanview Suite with No Balcony Staterooms
• Junior 1 Bedroom & Large Balcony Suite
• Grand 1 & 2 Bedroom, Large Balcony, Panoramic, & Loft Suite
• Owner’s 1 & 2 Bedroom, Panoramic, & Loft Suite
• Royal 1 Bedroom Suite & 2 Bedroom Loft Suite
• Villa 4 Bedroom Suite
• Boardwalk View, Central Park View, Boardwalk AquaTheater View Neighborhood Staterooms
• 2 Bedroom Crown Loft & Sky Loft Suite
• 1 Bedroom AquaTheater, Spacious AquaTheater, & AquaTheater with Large Balcony Suite
• 2 Deck, 1 Bedroom Star Loft Suite
• 2 Deck, 1 Bedroom Grand Panoramic Suite
• 2 Deck, 2 Bedroom Royal Loft Suite

Important to know:

All cruise lines have 4 major categories of staterooms to choose from, no matter what they’re called. These are Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, and Suites. Royal Caribbean dazzles with its extensive array of cabin types, catering to diverse preferences and budgets; Disney Cruise Line stands out with its family-centric approach to accommodation design. But even though the DCL has families in mind, Royal Caribbean truly has a stateroom for any type of vacation you’re looking to have. So no matter what, when you compare Royal Caribbean vs Disney, you have to give it to the RC ships for their custom vacation thinking. Also, while we have listed out every stateroom available for each cruise line, some rooms are only available on select ships!

Related Post: How Many Ships Does Disney Have?

Pricing

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Inside: $2,326
• Oceanview: $2,528
• Verandah: $2,824
• Concierge: $6,430

Royal Caribbean:

• Interior: $493
• Oceanview: $563
• Balcony: $616
• Suites: $1,421

All pricing above is for a 3-night sailing to the Bahamas on March 7th, 2025, from Port Canaveral, Florida. 

Important to know:

It’s almost impossible to compare the price on a cruise. Countless factors go into how much a cruise costs. Such as destination, duration, cabin type, and how many people are in your party. Our examples above are for similar cruises for each company! But in terms of pricing, this is where the contrast between a Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean Cruise Line will be the most noticeable. As you can see in our pricing example above, Disney is more expensive than Royal Caribbean. But it doesn’t stop there; Disney Cruise Line is more expensive than almost every other cruise line out there! While it doesn’t make the top three most expensive cruises, it most certainly loses in the price factor when comparing these two popular cruise lines.

Related Post: When is the Cheapest Time to Go on a Disney Cruise?

Amenities

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Live Shows & Entertainment
• Disney Character Experiences
• Family Friendly Activities
• Fireworks at Sea
• Deck Parties
• Movie Theaters
• Rotational Main Dining
• Adult-Exclusive Dining
• Youth Clubs
• Nightclubs & Lounges
• Family Venues
• Pools & Water Slides
• Spa & Salon Services
• Shopping
• Sports & Fitness Centers
• AquaMouse – A Disney Attraction at Sea – available only on the Wish & Treasure

Royal Caribbean:

• Live Shows & Entertainment
• Deck Parties
• Family Friendly Activities
• Movie Theaters
• Casinos
• Main Dining
• Adult-Exclusive Dining
• Youth Clubs
• Nightclubs & Lounges
• Family Venues
• Pools & Water Slides
• Spa & Salon Services
• Shopping
• Sports & Fitness Centers

Important to know:

Both Disney Cruise Line vs Royal Caribbean excel in delivering a wide array of onboard amenities, each tailored to their unique brand of cruise experience. Royal Caribbean takes a slight lead when it comes to amenities geared towards adults and adventure seekers. With thrilling attractions like rock climbing walls that challenge you to reach new heights and surf simulators that bring the excitement of ocean waves onboard, they cater to those seeking an adrenaline rush and active leisure. Conversely, Disney Cruise Line focuses on family-centric amenities. They excel in creating enchanting environments and activities that captivate the imaginations of both young and old. From character meet-and-greets to themed play areas, Disney ensures that every family member, regardless of age, experiences the wonder of their magical world at sea. This distinct focus makes Disney cruises a haven for families looking to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Disney.

Related Post: How Much Does a Disney Cruise Cost Per Person?

Inclusions – Disney vs Royal Caribbean

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Your Stateroom
• Entertainment
• Variety of Dining Options
• 24-hour Room Service
• Nightclubs & Lounges
• Youth Clubs
• Pools & Recreation
• Private Island
• Character Meet & Greets

Royal Caribbean:

• Your Stateroom
• Entertainment
• Variety of Dining Options
• Nightclubs & Lounges
• Youth Clubs
• Pools & Recreation
• Private Island

Important to know:

When weighing Disney Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean, it’s vital to consider the inclusions, as cruises aren’t typically all-inclusive. Both offer essentials like meals, entertainment, and pool access. A standout difference is in beverages; Disney Cruise Line includes free soda, unlike Royal Caribbean, where soda requires an extra fee or a soda package. Additionally, Disney cruises excel with complimentary 24/7 in-room dining, complete with my personal favorite perk: unlimited Mickey Premium ice cream bars! In contrast, Royal Caribbean provides 24/7 room service but charges a delivery fee. These distinctions are crucial in the Royal Caribbean vs Disney Cruise debate, especially for families prioritizing convenience and value.

Related Post: Every Disney Cruise Ship from the Newest to Oldest

Add-on Packages

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Pre-Pay Gratuities
• Ground Transportation
• Refillable Beer Mug
• In-Room Gifts
• Spa & Salon Services
• Internet Access (unless staying in a Concierge-level stateroom)
• Port-Adventures
• Vacation Protection

Royal Caribbean:

• Ground Transportation
• Beer, Wine, Spirit, & Sodas
• In-Room Gifts
• Spa & Salon Services
• Casinos
• Internet Access
• Port-Adventures
• Vacation Protection

Important to know:

In the Disney Cruise Line vs Royal Caribbean comparison, both offer purchasable Wi-Fi packages, with costs varying by speed and cruise length. A key difference is Royal Caribbean’s inclusive alcoholic drink package, allowing guests unlimited access to wine, beer, and spirits. Contrastingly, Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer a similar beverage package; instead, they have a unique reusable beer mug for discounted refills. For alcohol and specialty drinks like smoothies, Disney Cruise Line charges per item. This distinction is crucial for those considering the Disney vs Royal Caribbean choice, especially if inclusive drink options are a priority.

Related Post: Every Disney Cruise Ship Ranked

Booking Experience

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Through us! Click here for discounted Disney Cruise vacations!
• Online via the Disney Cruise website
• By calling the Disney Cruise Line at (800) 951-3532

Royal Caribbean:

• Online via the Royal Caribbean website
• By calling Royal Caribbean at (844) 278-9745

Important to know:

For me, the ease of booking a cruise can really impact my willingness to purchase a vacation. And I have to honestly say that Disney Cruise Line offers a very helpful, streamlined, and informative booking process. Originally, I wasn’t going to put this section into the guide. However, after doing my due-diligent research on the two cruise lines, I found it incredibly difficult to easily find some key information on the Royal Caribbean website. The website has the essential booking links displayed promptly on the home page, but for any detailed information, you have to dig in the search bar. At the same time, the DCL website lays everything out for you right on the home page. Making it a pleasurable and easy booking process. If you’re looking to eliminate the stress of booking your Disney Cruise, let us do it for you!

Related Post: Book Your Discounted Disney Cruise Stateroom!

Royal Caribbean vs Disney Cruise Line – The Fun Stuff

Dining

Disney Cruise Line: 

• 4 Main Dining Options
• 1 Buffet
• 2 Sweet Shops
• 3+ All Day Eateries
• 4 Additional Fee Dining Options

Royal Caribbean:

• 1 Main Dining Room
• 5+ All Day Eateries
• 1 Sweet Shop
• 11 Additional Fee Dining Options

Important to know:

In the Disney Cruise Line vs Royal Caribbean culinary showdown, both cruise lines emerge as champions in their own unique ways. Disney Cruise Line excels in themed dining experiences that are a feast for the senses and the imagination. Families dining on a Disney cruise are treated to more than just a meal; they enjoy immersive, character-driven experiences, making each dinner a memorable part of the Disney vs Royal Caribbean journey. In contrast, Royal Caribbean impresses with its vast array of dining options. Whether you’re seeking international cuisine, gourmet experiences, or casual bites, Royal Caribbean delivers, making it a strong contender in the Royal Caribbean vs Disney cruise debate for food enthusiasts. This diversity in dining is a hallmark of the Royal Caribbean Disney Cruise comparison, ensuring that every guest’s palate is well catered to on their sea voyage.

Related Post: Complete List of Disney Cruise Line Characters

Entertainment

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Broadway-quality Shows
• Nightclubs & Lounges
• Disney Character Greetings
• Deck Parties
• Fireworks at Sea
• Themed Cruises
• Themed Nights
• Themed Dining

Royal Caribbean:

• Parades
• Escape Rooms
• Broadway-quality Shows
• Nightclubs & Lounges
• Casinos
• Ice Skating Shows

Important to know:

Both cruise lines excel but cater to different tastes. Disney Cruise Line dazzles with Broadway-caliber shows and character-filled deck parties, a major draw in the Disney vs Royal Caribbean choice for families. These immersive, Disney-themed performances make every night on a Disney cruise an enchanting experience. On the other side, Royal Caribbean impresses with a diverse range of spectacular shows and live entertainment, from musical extravaganzas to acrobatic feats, appealing to a broader audience. This variety positions Royal Caribbean as a compelling option in the Royal Caribbean vs Disney cruise discussion for those seeking versatile and high-quality onboard entertainment.

Related Post: Your Complete Guide to Disney Christmas Cruises

Private Islands – Royal Caribbean Cruise vs Disney Cruise

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Castaway Cay – Bahamas
• Lighthouse Point – Bahamas – opening Summer 2024

Royal Caribbean:

• Coco Cay – Bahamas
• Labadee – Hati

Important to know:

The allure of exclusive private islands is a significant highlight when choosing a cruise line. Both cruise lines offer their guests this unique experience but in distinctively different styles. Disney’s Castaway Cay stands out in the Disney vs Royal Caribbean debate for its quintessential Disney magic. This private island delivers an immersive Disney experience, complete with character greetings that delight both young and old. The island’s meticulously themed environments transport guests into a storybook paradise. In contrast, while Royal Caribbean also offers private island experiences, they focus more on relaxation and island activities rather than themes, a factor to consider in the Royal Caribbean Disney cruise decision. However, the private islands of the Royal Caribbean offer a wider array of activities and beaches to enjoy. This distinction in private island experiences is a key element in choosing between Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean.

Related Post: Check out Disney’s Adult-Only Beach!

Kids’ Clubs

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Oceaneer Club – Ages 3 – 12
• Oceaneer Lab – Ages 3 – 12
• Edge – Ages 11 – 14
• Vibe – Ages 14-17
• “It’s a Small World” Nursery – Ages 6 months – 3 years

Royal Caribbean:

• Adventure Youth Program – Ages 3 – 12
• Teens & Tweens Program – Ages 13 – 17
• Babies & Tots Program – Ages 6 months – 3 years

Important to know:

Both cruise lines excel in providing exceptional kids’ clubs. However, Disney Cruise Line takes kids’ entertainment to a magical realm. Their clubs are not just spaces for play but portals into the enchanting world of Disney movies. Here, in these vividly themed and interactive clubs, children engage in activities led by their beloved Disney characters, an experience that stands out in the Disney vs Royal Caribbean debate. This direct interaction with the characters from their favorite stories makes every moment spent in Disney’s kids’ clubs a memorable adventure, a significant draw for families when booking a discount Disney Cruise. It’s this immersion into the Disney universe that gives Disney Cruise Line an edge in the Disney Cruise Line vs Royal Caribbean choice for those seeking a truly Disney-centric experience for their children.

Related Post: How to Book a Disney Cruise at a Discounted Rate

Themed Cruises

Disney Cruise Line: 

• Pixar Day at Sea
• Marvel Day at Sea
• Halloween on the High Seas
• Very Merrytime Cruises

Royal Caribbean:

• High Seas Motorcycle Rally
• Rock Legends Cruise
• Star Trek Cruise
• Ultimate 80’s Party
• The Old School Cruise
• Super Legends Cruise
• Christmas Cruise

Important to know:

In our epic Disney Cruise Line vs Royal Caribbean showdown, themed onboard experiences are a key highlight. Disney Cruise Line specializes in themed cruises, like Halloween on the High Seas, providing an immersive experience with character encounters, special shows, and activities that deeply engage fans, making Disney an ideal choice for those seeking themed adventures at sea. Conversely, Royal Caribbean caters to those who prefer shorter-themed events, offering themed nights, weekends, and parties. This approach suits travelers in the Royal Caribbean vs Disney Cruise debate who enjoy a blend of thematic and varied entertainment, offering a taste of themed fun without committing to a full-themed voyage.

Related Post: All of Disney’s Themed Cruises

Which is Better: Royal Caribbean or Disney Cruise

Choosing between a Disney Cruise Line and a Royal Caribbean cruise depends on what aligns best with your family’s vacation needs. For those enchanted by Disney’s magical and immersive experiences, tailored specifically for families and Disney enthusiasts, Disney Cruise Line is an ideal choice, perfectly fitting the Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean narrative. And if your preference leans more towards a variety of experiences suitable for different ages and interests, Royal Caribbean is a great cruise option. It offers an array of activities that cater to both adventure-seekers and those seeking relaxation, making it a strong contender in the Royal Caribbean vs Disney cruise decision. Each line offers unique and memorable experiences, but the right choice for your Disney or Royal Caribbean adventure will depend on your specific vacation desires and expectations.

Is a Disney Cruise Cheaper than Royal Caribbean?

• No, a Disney Cruise is typically more expensive than a Royal Caribbean Cruise. However, the value you get from a Disney cruise – especially if you’re a Disney fan – can make the extra cost worth it.

So, while both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean provide exceptional family vacation experiences if your heart is set on the enchanting world of Disney, we’ve got something special for you. At The Park Prodigy, we understand the allure of a Disney Cruise’s magical journey. That’s why we’re excited to offer exclusive deals on Disney Cruise Line vacations! Embark on a voyage filled with Disney magic and unforgettable moments, all at a fantastic value. Visit us to explore these exclusive discounted Disney Cruise offers and get ready to set sail on a dream vacation. Bon voyage and happy cruising!

Related Post: What is the Best Disney Cruise Ship?

Disney Cruise Line vs. Royal Caribbean FAQ

Q: What age groups are best suited for Disney Cruise Line?

A: Disney Cruise Line is ideal for families with children, especially those who love Disney characters and themes. It’s also great for multi-generational groups, offering activities and entertainment that appeal to all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. We also think that, if planned correctly, it’s great for adults who enjoy the Disney theme parks as an adult-only getaway!

Q: Does Royal Caribbean offer any family-oriented activities similar to Disney?

A: Yes, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of family-oriented activities. While they don’t have Disney characters, they do have family-friendly shows, kids’ clubs, and activities like rock climbing and ice skating that appeal to both children and adults.

Q: Can adults enjoy a Disney Cruise even if they’re not traveling with children?

A: Absolutely! Adults can enjoy Disney Cruises, too. There are adult-only areas, including lounges, spas, and pools, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable experience even without children.

Q: What type of entertainment is offered on Royal Caribbean for teens?

A: Royal Caribbean provides a range of entertainment options for teens, including teen clubs, sports tournaments, DJ training sessions, and themed parties specifically designed for young adults.

Q: Are there any exclusive destinations that Disney Cruise Line visits that Royal Caribbean does not?

A: Yes, Disney Cruise Line has exclusive rights to Castaway Cay, their private island in the Bahamas, which is a unique destination not visited by Royal Caribbean.

Q: What is the average length of a cruise for both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean?

A: Both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer a range of cruise lengths, typically from 3 to 7 nights, with some extended voyages lasting up to 14 nights or more.

When is The Best Time to Embark on a Disney Cruise?

Our Disney World Crowd Calendar is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time at sea. This is simply because most guests who embark on a Disney Cruise pair their sea vacation with a land one in the parks. That’s why we break down park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices, and average temperature to help you better book your Disney Cruise Line Vacation. We also break down the best time to go on a Disney Cruise based on specific times of the year and special events.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Cruise Trip?

Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Be sure to speak with a Disney World Travel Agent for the most recent deals and promotions. The Park Prodigy will provide a Free Quote for all Disney Cruise Vacation Packages. The Park Prodigy can also help you save up to $20 per ticket when purchasing your Walt Disney World Tickets, and we offer promotional discounts for special events such as Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Tickets and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets.

Don’t forget to check out our wonderful friends over at Theme Park Today, as well!