Dec 26

Dec 26 A Very Merrytime Cruise!!

A Disney Cruise Line adventure is always one of my favorite getaways, however it's even more magical during the holidays when the ships add extra sparkle for their Very Merrytime cruises. Starting in early November and running through the end of December, Very Merrytime sailings allow you to experience the magic of the Christmas season with special holiday themed activities and entertainment, and even "snow!" Wondering what holiday fun can you have on board a Very Merrytime cruise? Here's my top 5 things not to miss!

1. Love Christmas trees? Check out “Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic” in the atrium lobby on the first night of the cruise, where Disney characters lead holiday carols and the lighting of the glittering, three-deck-tall tree. Seeing the Christmas tree in the atrium is always one of my favorite things on Very Merrytime sailings.

2. Speaking of holiday decorations, did you know each ship has its own lifesize gingerbread house on board? Assembled by the pastry chef team each year, each ship creates a completely unique design using approximately 650 pounds of gingerbread dough, 220 pounds of icing sugar, 5,250 gingerbread bricks, heaps of candy and a whole lot of creativity! It’s also the perfect backdrop for your family Christmas photo!

3. The highlight of every Merrytime cruise for me is “Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball” in the atrium lobby, where you welcome the guests of honor, Santa and Mrs. Claus, with a grand celebration featuring Broadway-style entertainment, favorite Disney characters and classic holiday tunes. This evening of enchantment is made complete when Anna and Elsa join the party, causing a flurry of “frozen” fun as a magical snowfall overtake the atrium.

4. Special limited time holiday activities abound on Merrytime cruises, including gingerbread decorating, ornament making, Deck the Deck Tropical Holiday Party (with candy-cane limbo, dancing and games), a meet and greet with Santa Claus and of course, meet and greets with Disney Characters in their holiday outfits. There's also plenty of stuff to do just for kids! In the Oceanear Club, kids can participate in holiday crafts such as decorating stockings, making holiday cards and creating holiday animation cells. Two years ago my husband and I made this gingerbread house without killing each other in the process (a true Christmas miracle). Can you spot the hidden Mickey?

5. Don't think the decorations stop at the ship! On Merrytime cruises that stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, you'll be greeted by a Christmas tree, Santa's sleigh and two sandmen (hey, it's the Bahamas after all!) as soon as you disembark on the pier. Fun nautical decor is sprinkled throughout the island (keep a look out for Santa wreaths made from lobster buoys). You'll even hear Christmas music sprinkled in with tropical tunes at the beach!