When Disney introduced the Wish in 2022, it became one of the most talked-about cruise ships at sea. With its fairytale design, immersive dining, and high-tech entertainment, the Wish was unlike any other ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. My crew recently sailed on the Wish and wanted to share our thoughts and experiences to help you know what it’s like to really sail on the Disney Wish.

First Impressions: Stepping Aboard

The Wish makes a statement as soon as you step into the atrium. Instead of the art deco or art nouveau style of the older ships, the Wish welcomes you into an airy Grand Hall with Cinderella at its heart. The beauty of this lobby is truly overwhelming. It feels grand and elegant. The color palette is rich but peaceful and you’ll instantly feel like Disney royalty.

As with all Disney cruises, Cast Members announce your family name as you enter, and you’re immediately surrounded by music, golden accents, and a chandelier inspired by the wishing star. This moment is one that always gets me no matter how many cruises we do.

Pro tip: Have your camera ready so that you can record this first moment of magic. It truly sets the tone for the voyage ahead.

Dining on the Disney Wish

The dining on the Wish really shines with it immersive experiences and delicious dishes.

• Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure – Your family will be transported to the Arendelle castle where you’ll enjoy live entertainment with Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, and Olaf while you dine on Nordic-inspired dishes. This experience is certainly one any Frozen fan will enjoy. The quality of the show does vary a little by the seating you’re given but the characters will move throughout the restaurant so that you should be able to get a close up view. The food here is…well…probably not going to be the thing you talk about when you get home. It was fine but the offerings were a little unusual and not incredibly flavorful. Of the three restaurants on the Wish this was my least favorite for food.
• Worlds of Marvel – This interactive dining experience with Ant-Man and the Wasp is a fun experience if you have Marvel fans in your crew. Your kiddos will enjoy being a part of this super hero story, the interactive elements at your table and a special meeting from one of Marvel’s favorite characters. This was my second favorite restaurant for food quality. I really enjoyed the bao bun appetizer, the wedge salad and the gnocchi dish for my main course.
• 1923 – This quieter, more elegant dining room, themed after the golden age of Hollywood and Disney’s history is my personal fav on this ship. The restaurant had a dark but elegant old Hollywood vibe. There were displays of Disney artwork throughout the restaurant that gave a nod to the company’s history and the talent of the animators. The food here is top of my list. We really enjoyed the tortiglioni pasta, the filet, the caramel apple cheesecake, and the churros.

Every meal was a memorable experience and I appreciate Disney’s rotational dining that gives you the opportunity to experience them all.

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Staterooms: Modern & Magical

The staterooms on the Wish feel lighter and more modern than those on the older ships. Clean lines, upscale finishes, and subtle fairytale touches (like Cinderella or Frozen artwork) make them feel both stylish and magical.

We stayed in a guaranteed stateroom during our trip, and while we didn’t choose the exact location, we still loved the space. The split bathrooms are a signature piece of Disney Cruise room design and make getting ready so much easier. These rooms also have lots of storage cubbies to make the most of the space.

Entertainment at Sea

Entertainment on the Wish is next-level.

• Stage Shows: The Wish features three main stage shows: Disney Seas the Adventure, Aladdin and The Little Mermaid. These shows are Broadway style productions that are always impressive. Disney Cruise Line hires amazing talent to give Broadway style products right on the ship.
• AquaMouse: Disney’s first “at-sea attraction,” blends animation with a water coaster. This coaster will allow your crew to experience Disney storytelling with a fun and exciting ride that even loops out over the sea.
• Pirate Night: Did you know that Disney is the only cruise line that can do a fireworks show at sea? Most Disney cruises will feature a pirate night where you can enjoy unique character meet and greets, special dining menus, a pirate deck party and even fireworks. Don’t forget to pack that pirate gear to fully immerse yourself in the fun!
• Clubs for Kids & Teens: Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars Cargo Bay, Fairytale Hall, and more. My tip? Even if you’re an adult, ask about Open House times—you’ll want to peek inside! These clubs will have you wishing you could be a kid again.

Day-to-Day Life Onboard

Life on the Wish is a mix of Disney magic and relaxation. You can spend your day doing as much or as little as you like. If you’re looking to stay busy, you’ll want to check out all of the Disney cruise activities like the character dance party or the Hero zone. If you’re hoping to chill, find some loungers on the pool deck or take in one of Disney’s newest movies in the theater.

For adults, there’s Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement. Palo is my all time favorite Disney cruise restaurant! Do yourself a favor a book a brunch reservation here. You don’t want to miss out on their almond croissant! The quiet Cove Café is another of my personal favorite places to relax. This cafe is adults only and offers delicious specialty coffees or you can enjoy a cocktail here. There is also an adult pool deck where you can enjoy some time in the water without the chaos of the main pool deck. Whether you’re traveling with kids or looking for adult time, the Wish balances both.

Overall Thoughts: The Disney Wish Experience

Sailing on the Wish feels like stepping into a Disney fairytale at sea. It’s modern, immersive, and full of magical touches. While it has a different vibe than the classic ships like the Dream, it offers an unforgettable cruise for both families and adults.

If you’re considering booking the Disney Wish, I’d love to help plan your trip—from dining reservations to stateroom choices—so you can focus on making memories instead of managing the details.