TLDR;
This video discusses ten purchases that can enhance a Disney cruise experience, making the trip more magical and memorable. These include pre-cruise room packages, photo albums, the Animator's Palate knife, small artwork, ship replicas, fish extenders and pixie dusting, Palo dining, souvenirs for kids, limited edition merchandise, and towel animal plushies. The video provides tips on where to find these items, how to make the most of them, and why they are worth the investment.
- Room packages with holiday-themed items and robes add a personal touch.
- Animator's Palate knife is a unique, affordable souvenir.
- Limited edition merchandise and ship replicas are highly sought after.
- Fish extenders and pixie dusting create interactive gift exchanges.
- Purchasing souvenirs that kids want prevents later regret.
Room Packages [0:17]
Disney Cruise Line offers room packages that can be purchased before the cruise to add a personal touch to the experience. These packages include items such as holiday-themed blankets and decorations for Halloween and Christmas cruises, as well as romance packages with robes and sparkling cider. These items are exclusive to the onboard gift section of the Disney Cruise Line website and cannot be found elsewhere. While wine, fruit, cakes, and desserts are also available, the holiday and romance packages are particularly recommended for their unique and memorable items.
Photo Album or Scrapbook [2:17]
A photo album or scrapbook is essential for preserving memories made on a Disney cruise. These albums help organize favorite moments and add a personal touch when customized after the trip. It's advisable to acquire one before the cruise to have a special place for tickets and other mementos. Whether or not purchasing the photo package, asking a crew member to take photos with your phone ensures you have your own versions. Using a photo for a Christmas ornament is a great way to relive cruise memories each year.
Animator's Palate Knife [3:32]
The Animator's Palate knife is a unique and affordable souvenir available on Disney cruise ships with the Animator's Palate restaurant. This knife, typically priced around $10, is a fun reminder of the iconic dining experience. It is exclusively sold on the ship and not available on the Disney website. Using the knife at home evokes memories of the cruise, making it a must-have item.
Small Artwork [4:38]
Small pieces of artwork on Disney cruise ships are an elegant way to remember the trip without spending too much. These can include framed sketches or detailed prints of the ship. Artwork is displayed not only in shops but also in hallways, such as outside the D Lounge on the Disney Wonder, and is available for purchase. Finding a piece of art under $100 is a perfect way to capture the memories of the cruise.
Replica of the Ship [5:28]
Replicas of the Disney cruise ships are highly detailed models that serve as fantastic display pieces. These are popular among collectors, so it's recommended to purchase one on the first day of the cruise. Pre-ordering is also an option through the onboard gifts section of the Disney Cruise Line website. This ensures the model is packed and ready, eliminating the need to worry about availability in the shop.
Fish Extenders and Pixie Dusting [6:13]
Fish extenders and pixie dusting are fun ways to add extra magic to a Disney cruise, especially for families with kids. These activities involve gift exchanges organized through Disney Cruise Line groups on Facebook. Participants hang pocket organizers (fish extenders) outside their staterooms for others to fill with gifts. Pixie dusting involves leaving small gifts at staterooms without expectation. While fish extenders require more planning and packing, they enhance the cruise experience. Magnets with personalized images are also popular for decorating stateroom doors.
Paulo Brunch or Dinner [9:23]
Paulo is an adult-exclusive specialty dining experience available on Disney cruise ships. Whether for brunch or dinner, Paulo offers exquisite dishes and an unmatched ambiance. Paulo Steakhouse on the Wish and Treasure offers high-quality steaks in addition to Italian cuisine. The brunch features expansive selections, including breads, seafood, cheeses, flatbreads, and chicken parm. For dinner, arriving early to enjoy the sunset is highly recommended, and the chocolate souffle is a popular dessert.
Souvenirs for Kids [10:43]
Purchasing a desired souvenir for a child during a Disney cruise is essential, as it may not be available elsewhere, especially if it's specific to a Disney island destination like Castaway Cay. These souvenirs become cherished memories, and failing to buy them can lead to lasting disappointment. If a child repeatedly asks for an item, it's advisable to buy it early in the cruise so they can enjoy it throughout the trip.
Limited Edition Disney Cruise Merchandise [12:03]
Limited edition Disney Cruise merchandise, such as Spirit jerseys and Dooney & Bourke bags, is often exclusively sold onboard and can become valuable collectibles. If something catches your eye, it's best to buy it immediately, as these items tend to sell out quickly. The shops typically open after the ship is at sea, so check the Navigator app for opening times. Crew members can provide information on upcoming releases. Buying merchandise earlier in the trip allows for exchanges if needed.
Towel Animal Plushy [13:50]
Towel animal plushies are a charming way to bring the Disney Cruise Line magic home. These plush versions of the towel animals found in staterooms make great gifts and reminders of the cruise. Introduced a few years ago, they were initially available on the Disney Wonder.
