What to expect on Disney Wonder
There’ll be no shortage of fun for all the family on board when it visits Australia in October, writes Rebecca Mason
My family just returned from a voyage down the west coast of the US on Disney Wonder, the same ship that will be here in Australia later this year. My husband, Ian, six kids, Brittany, 24, Lachlan, 22, Corey, 20, Brooke, 18, Kynan, 17, Kobi, 14, plus daughter Brooke’s boyfriend, Josh, 19, sailed from San Diego down to Puerto Vallarta. It was a dream come true; I have been Disney obsessed since I was a little girl.
The cruise got off to a magical start with the Sail-a-wave party, a highenergy dance party on the deck. Goofy, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto and Donald Duck were in attendance. As we sailed away, the captain honked the horn to the tune “When You Wish Upon a Star”.
On board, there really is something for everyone. Kynan and Kobi embraced the Vibe & Edge Youth Clubs with their new friends, mixed with spending time with us all at mealtimes, show times and shore excursions. Ian and I enjoyed an evening “out” at the adults-only Palo restaurant. We all enjoyed the activities hosted by the entertainment crew, such as trivia, craft, family quiz shows, karaoke and cooking demonstrations.
The character meet-and-greets were a highlight for all. I was keen to see Goofy or Minnie Mouse but was so pleased when Chip and Dale appeared as the elevator opened, and when we arrived back from a shore excursion, the handsome Thor was roaming the ship and he stopped to have a chat. We all loved Stitch, as he was often causing mischief, particularly when he was threatening to throw paper planes at the princesses.
Another highlight is the fireworks at sea, a culmination of the Pirate Deck Party where Captain Hook and friends took over the ship. On select sailings there will be pirate nights, so bring your best pirate costume. Mickey Mouse swung through the air to “save the day”. The fireworks started after “The Final Countdown” tune was played which made for a spectacular ending to an incredible day.
Every dining experience is to be celebrated, as the food is delicious and the servers dress to the occasion. I personally enjoyed Tiana’s Place, as I enjoy the dancing and New Orleansstyle entertainment. Tiana is the star of The Princess and the Frog, which is set in south Louisiana. The children really enjoyed Animator’s Palate when their hand-drawn cartoons came to life on the big screen in a Walt Disney Production.
My favourite stage production was
Disney Dreams: An Enchanted Classic as the message is to follow your dreams. This production brought a tear to my eye. It was one of the highlights, as well as spending quality time with my family. I can’t wait to do it all again when
Disney Wonder sails into Australian waters in October.