Capt. Mickey otherwise known as ``Miiickeeeeeeeee!'' the world's most famous mouse greets guests, signs autographs and poses for pictures on the Disney Wonder.
Disney at sea is a remarkably successful family vacation product. Family vacations can combine a three- or four-night Bahamian cruise from Port Canaveral with a stay at Walt Disney World in nearby Orlando.
The combo package conveniently fits a one-week vacation timetable. At first blush, prices may stagger. But by Disney standards, it's a family vacation bargain: A family of four -- two adults and kids ages 8 and 10 -- pays as little as $4,300 for a week's vacation in November that includes an interior stateroom on a four-night cruise (includes all food and entertainment), Disney World lodging for three nights, theme-park tickets, transportation, (round trip Orlando to Port Canaveral) taxes, fees and insurance.
The Wonder's year-round itinerary -- which includes a stop at Nassau and a day of sun and fun on Disney-owned Castaway Cay, a 1,000-acre private island -- is packed with activities for kids.
The difficult part of planning a family cruise is making all the kids happy. The kids activities are arranged for five age groups, with venues as diverse as a marine science lab and a teen disco. Ready to splash? You'll find three age-specific swimming pools.
A Disney cruise can be enjoyable for mom and dad also, late-night comedy shows; an adults-only entertainment district with a sports pub, dance club and piano bar; a Quiet Cove pool (quiet by comparison but still jam-packed); and a 10,000-square-foot spa and salon. Indulge in flights of martinis or beer, then unwind with a volcanic-stone and warm-oil massage.
Kids-sail-free: Disney is offering a Kids Sail Free promotion on most three-night cruises this spring when traveling with two paying adults in the same cabin; maximum three guests per cabin. The special is valid for kids 12 and under on sailings from March 12-May 28.
Prices for Disney Cruise Line's combination land-sea packages -- and for cruise-only vacations -- vary widely depending on the season and preferred accommodations. Expect to pay more during peak periods that include holidays, Spring Break and summer. For example, a three-night cruise for two adults in April starts around $1,650
