The Disney Wonder:  More Wonder for the Senses

Disney Wonder is one of the two cruise ships commissioned by the Disney Cruise Line to operate as a family cruise ship.  Meaning, everything you see here – the design, the facilities, activities, the whole experience – is geared towards creating an enjoyable and satisfying experience for families.  However, you might be surprised to know that Disney Wonder doesn’t just attract families.  Many honeymooners actually choose to go on board the Wonder and so do groups of single adults. 

The Disney Wonder was first deployed in 1999, a year after the Disney Magic.  It is 965 feet long and can accommodate as many as 1,750 passengers on double occupancy alone.
Like its older sister ship, the Disney Magic, the Disney Wonder is a classically designed ship.  A key detail is its portholes, which retained their round shapes, unlike the rectangular shapes that have since appeared in other cruise lines.  The Disney Wonder is undoubtedly a Disney ship and you'll find reminders of well-loved Disney characters all over, including a statue of the Little Mermaid standing on the foyer before Triton's restaurant.

Accommodation

Disney often sets the standard for the industry and that includes their cruise ship accommodations.  The staterooms are larger than those usually found in other cruise lines and accommodations are offered in different classes.  You'll find some thoughtful features in the rooms that are family-friendly, such as its folding beds, convertible sofa beds and its bath-and-a-half shower facilities.  Disney has even added the H2O Plus Spa bath products for guests to use.

Dining

To say that Disney understands children is an understatement.  This uncanny ability to cater to kids' interests is evident in their dining service.  Dining rooms not only serve delicious menu selections, they even entertain the kids long enough to make them stay and actually enjoy themselves – a relief to parents who want to enjoy their meals.  Not only do the Disney characters in the area keep their interests, dining rooms also change lighting and decorations.

There are plenty of choices in terms of dining experience in the Disney Wonder and with their innovative 'dining rotation' style, you get to eat at different locations throughout the voyage.  The three major restaurants include Animator's Palate, Parrot Cay and Triton's.  Of these, kids will probably have the most smashing time at the Parrot Cay, which features Caribbean-themed décor and music, along with live and interactive entertainment.

In case adults start feeling out of place, the Disney Wonder also offers adult-style dining courtesy of Palo, which serves Italian cuisine.  This dining room is elegant and features unmatched ocean vistas.  If you're craving for more familiar fare, there's Pluto's Dog House and Pinocchio's Pizzeria for burgers, hot dogs and pizza.  Goofy's Galley is also another favorite not only with adults but kids as well.  You get panini and a variety of sandwiches along with soft ice cream with your choice of toppings.

Entertainment

Of course, what's a Disney cruise without its legendary entertainment?  G-rated movies are available all day while more adult-oriented films are shown late in the evenings.  You also get to participate in karaoke (using Disney tunes, of course), kite-making, ice-carving and even play in friendly basketball games.  Your family also gets to participate in dance parties and game show-like contests.

One of the most awaited productions is Hercules the Muse-ical and Disney Dreams, told as a bedtime story that includes favorite characters like Cinderella and Peter Pan.  A highlight is the Pirates in the Caribbean dinner party, offering dinner, lots of music, dancing and fun.  You get to dance with your favorite pirates, watch Mickey and Capt. Hook's fight scene and then admire the fireworks that mark the end of the show. 

The Disney Wonder is also replete with priceless moments – special appearances of Disney characters such as Mickey, Belle, Cinderella or Minnie Mouse – that children look forward to.  These characters have scheduled appearances on different decks and children can ask for autographs and even have their pictures taken with their favorites.

For those who prefer adults-only entertainment, go to Route 66, where you can enjoy a night's entertainment with other adults.  There are also dance parties you can participate in that serve bar drinks.  If you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, there is also a sports-themed bar and a piano bar you can go to.

Itineraries

While itineraries change all the time, for the near future The Disney Wonder will be leaving out of Orlando, Florida, going to Nassau, Castaway Cay, and some of the cruises also go to Costa Maya and Cozumel. 

Recently, the Disney Wonder saw some much-appreciated additions, such as the introduction of a toddler pool equipped with splash zones and interactive fountains.  The Oceaneer Lab was also added, where kids can maneuver the Wonder using computer simulation.  Facilities such as the Quiet Cove and Vista Spa also underwent renovation and expansion.