TheDisney Treasure.Photo:Kent Phillips, Courtesy Disney Cruise Line
Kent Phillips, Courtesy Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Lineis exploring a whole new world with its newest ship, theDisney Treasure— but does it hold a candle (or maybe a magic lamp) to theDisney Wish?
Two and a half years later, theTreasure— the sixth ship inthe DCL fleet, and second in itsWishclass — has many of the same offerings,but the vibe couldn’t be more unique. While theWishis likeAlice’s Adventures in Wonderland, theTreasureis more akin toThrough the Looking-Glass.
But which ship is right for your travel tastes? Whether you’re a parent, a child-free couple, a Disney Parks enthusiast, a Disney movies buff or a solo adventurer, read on to decide for yourself which of DCL’s two newest ships will best make all your dreams come true.
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Grand Hall statues on theDisney Wish(L) andDisney Treasure.Jen Juneau (2)
Jen Juneau (2)
It’s difficult to say which ship is definitively better for families, because children and parents both have different types of Disney content that make their hearts sing — not to mention the kids-onlyDisney’s Oceaneer ClubandIt’s a Small World Nurseryare available on both, plus little ones love Scuttle’s Cove on Castaway Cay.
The stage shows on both ships also run the gamut in terms of Disney eras. On theWish, you’ve gotThe Little MermaidandAladdin, whileBeauty and the BeastandThe Tale of Moana(a gorgeous new show you cannot miss) grace theTreasure. But the Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure restaurant gives theWisha very slight edge here, if only for the universally beloved nature of theFrozenfilms.
Plus, there is something about the vibe of that ship that embodies innocence, dreaming, and the beauty of new beginnings.
WINNER:Disney Wish
Scuttle’s Cove on Disney’s Castaway Cay.Jen Juneau
Jen Juneau
Both theWishand theTreasureoffer adults-only pool areas of about the same size on the ship and kid-free zones on their private islands, Castaway Cay and the recently unveiledLookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Two adults-only dining experiences are also available exclusively on these two ships:EnchantéandPalo Steakhouse, which can be booked for a separate charge.
But the vibes aboard the ships themselves felt more different than I anticipated, which was apparent to me from the moment I took in the Grand Hall statues. DespiteAladdinbeing a stage show on theWishand not theTreasure, theTreasurefelt more embracing of the spirit of adventure and the whole “Disney Adult” lifestyle, while being aboard theWishwas all about the beauty of what could be.
One of the most enjoyable parts of ourTreasureitinerary was the brand-new, hilariousChoose Wisely! An Indiana Jones Comedy Adventure, which would also make the perfect date night and is a little edgier than your usual kids-focused fare from Disney.
WINNER:Disney Treasure
Trivia onboard theDisney Treasure.Jen Juneau
For me, the appeal of a solo adventure comes down to the type of other travelers around me — and fortunately, Disney (and cruising) has fans of all ages.
Each ship offers awide variety of activitieslike game shows, trivia competitions and crafting sessions, where you can get acquainted with other guests, or quieter parts of the ships and private islands where you can take some time alone.
A tip for solo travelers: be smart about the timing of your activities to avoid the crowds. Get to the private island first, and grab a hammock or get to snorkeling while everyone else is still on the ship. Or check out theAquaMouse water coasterwhile other guests are grabbing lunch, or right before it closes in the evening. There’s nothing quite like sliding under the stars.
WINNER: TIE
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Disney’s Castaway Cay.Jen Juneau
One of the most stunning parts of both theWishand theTreasureis1923 restaurant, named after the year the Walt Disney Company was founded and featuring original artwork from some of the most iconic Disney animated films, fromRobin HoodtoRaya and the Last Dragon.
Even the sweets shops and coffee stands perfectly encapsulate the vibe of the films they are themed after, fromInside OuttoZootopia,Mulan,Moana,PinocchioandThe Sword in the Stone, and you’ve got theWorlds of Marvelrestaurant on both ships (with unique interactive adventures!).
Plaza de Coco restaurant and show aboard theDisney Wish.Kent Phillips, Courtesy Disney Cruise Line
For me, this category came down to the lounge/bar theming. While theWishhas some fun nods to the parks, they are often about telling the story of the intellectual property and embracing the fairytale — particularly thePrincess and the Frog-themedThe Bayouand theStar Wars: Hyperspace Lounge.
But the real winner is theHaunted Mansion Parlorthat fully immerses honorary happy haunts in the atmosphere of the Haunted Mansion ride. There guests can enjoy an array of craft cocktails and other spooky beverages while taking in multiple light-and-sound shows straight from the attraction.
Haunted Mansion Parlor aboard theDisney Treasure.Kent Phillips, Courtesy Disney Cruise Line
Of course, there are always travelers who prefer to keep to dry land, or maybe just want to celebrate the holidays at Disney Parks before or after their cruise — in which case, they can check out some of the seasonal offerings likeJollywood Nightsat Disney’s Hollywood Studios through Dec. 21, orMickey’s Very Merry Christmas Partyat the Magic Kingdom through Dec. 20.
For more information about theDisney WishandDisney Treasure, as well as updates about next year’s already-announced new ships,Disney DestinyandDisney Adventure, visitdisneycruise.disney.go.com.
source: people.com