Disney’s Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise Guide

Ready to set sail on a whole new kind of holiday cruise? If you’re used to sailing on the high seas with Disney Cruise Line then you’re in for some extra festive fun! And since this Disney Christmas Cruise is all about holiday activities, holiday treats, festive performances and Disney Characters in Christmas outfits, what’s not to love? Here we’ll give you all the details about what you get on a Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise that is different than a regular cruise, and everything you can find onboard during your holiday sail! 

Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise Details

Sailing on the Very Merrytime has been a dream since hearing such a thing existed. What could be more magical than a Disney Christmas Cruise? Our last Disney Very Merrytime Cruise itinerary was a 5-night sailing to the Bahamas on the Disney Dream. A quite fitting name for our ship if I do say so myself. Because, well it was a dream!

What is a Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise?

 If you love Christmas and Disney, the Very Merrytime cruises with Disney are worth checking out. With Characters dressed in their festive best, holiday decorations, activities and crafts, there is no shortage of festive fun on a Disney Christmas Cruise.

When Are the Very Merrytime Disney Cruise Dates in 2025?

During 2024, Disney Christmas Cruises are available for select sailing from November 7th – December 27th, 2025. Check out all the 2025 Disney Christmas Cruise Itineraries.

Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise Itineraries 

Itineraries for the Disney Very Merrytime Cruise vary from year to year. However, Disney Cruise Line generally start their Very Merrytime sailings in early November and continues them until the New Year.

Which Disney Cruise Ships offer the Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise?

The Disney Cruise Ships that include holiday sailings are the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic and the Disney Wish.

Where Does the Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise Sail?

The Very Merrytime Disney Christmas Cruise sails mostly to the Caribbean Ports. You can check out the Very Merrytime Cruise Ports on the website.

• Bahamas
• British and US Virgin Islands
• Jamaica
• Grand Cayman
• Mexico

Disney Christmas Cruises depart from Port Canaveral, Galveston, and Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. To see where Disney Very Merrytime cruises are sailing during the time you want to sail, check out the Disney Cruise Line website.

Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise Decorations

One of our favorite parts of any Disney holiday vacation is the decorations. So, if you thought the atrium of the Disney Cruise ships were gorgeous then seeing the atrium all decked out for Christmas will make you feel like a kid on, well, Christmas morning. It’s so magical, you may just find yourself fighting back the tears. Not only is the atrium beautifully decorated, with a Legacy Christmas Tree, but also you can find holiday touches around every corner. The restaurants, the hallways, and even Disney’s Private Island destinations (if your itinerary includes it) get dressed up for its holiday best!

Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise Activities

We did a quick wrap-up of our favorite things to do on a Disney Christmas Cruise in our 5 must-do’s on a Disney Very Merrytime Cruise post so be sure to check out the details of our favorite activities onboard. Here’s a snapshot of what you should have on your Disney Christmas Cruise List! One thing to note is that offerings can change from sailing to sailing. And can often be different depending on your entertainment team.

• Sail Away Party
• Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
• Storytime with Mrs. Claus
• Merrytime Carolers
• Meet the Disney Characters in their Holiday Best
• Holiday Crafts on a Disney Christmas Cruise
• Specialty Drinks, Treats and Menus
• Lifesized Gingerbread House (on cruises later in the season).
• Mickey and Minnie’s Holiday Party, the new deck party for Disney Christmas Cruise sailings
• Meet Santa Claus
• Holiday Movies on FunnelVision and in the Theaters
• Holiday Merchandise in the shops and at both Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay

And that’s just the beginning. All throughout the cruise, there are holiday-themed events, treats, and even Christmas music playing throughout the ship. Mrs. Claus has a storytime onboard and the characters are dressed in their festive best for all the events. The Christmas merchandise is in full swing in the shops. And Christmas crafts for families or ones specifically for the kids in the youth clubs are also available.

You can also count on Pirate Night and Fireworks still stealing the show and all fun you expect from a Disney Cruise is still intact. Trivia, Scavenger Hunts, Wine Tastings…..you name it. There is so much to do on a Disney Cruise and the Very Merrytime Cruise just steps that up one notch. Do as little or as much as you like!

Sail Away Party 

The fun begins even before you sail away with the Sail Away Party! This Disney Cruise Embarkation Day is a must do, and this is no different on a Very Merrytime sailing! In the past, we’ve seen the characters dressed in festive attire for this show, but in 2025, that has not been the case. Either way, it’s a magical way to start your Disney Cruise Vacation, so be sure to head to the top desk to see the Sail Away Party before you sail away!

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

One of the best parts of a Disney Cruise at Christmas is getting to see the Tree Lightning Ceremony. The Disney Cruise Christmas Tree Lighting happens the first night of your cruise. And it will usually happen twice in the same evening so that everyone can see it. Be sure to check the Disney Cruise Navigator App for times.

This Christmas event includes lighting the multi story tree and a festive show that ends with the whole atrium lit up. It’s a great way to kick off your cruise with some extra festive fun, so don’t miss it! You can count on Mickey and friends in their holiday outfits, and Christmas carols too. There is also a countdown and Santa arrives, as the whole atrium comes alive with Christmas lights! So much magic!

Storytime with Mrs. Claus

You’ll get to see Mrs. Claus herself a few times on your cruise. On Very Merrytime sailings Mrs. Claus offers a holiday story time in the atrium, with 2-3 holiday books. And there is generally one evening story time right before bed. Come ready in your matching Family Christmas Pajamas because there is complimentary cookies and cocoa in the atrium too! During longer cruises, you can catch her several afternoons reading stories and meeting with guests.

See the Life-Size Gingerbread House

If you’re sailing later in November you’ll get to see a life-size Gingerbread House onboard in the atrium! This Christmas Gingerbread house is usually ready by the second or third week of November. And adds a whole new layer of festive to the onboard holiday decorations.

Just like the Gingerbread Displays at Disney World, the Cruise Gingerbread Display is done with just as much attention to detail, so be sure to see if you can find any hidden Mickeys!

Meet Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus

As part of the cruise you can also count on seeing Mr. and Mrs. Claus onboard! Be sure to check your Disney Cruise Navigator for scheduled times and locations. And be sure to had your camera ready! For families, and children can both take photos with Santa, to help capture memories from this special cruise.

Mickey and Minnie’s Holiday Party

Mickey and Minnie’s Holiday Party is the Christmas deck party held during Very Merrytime sailings. Join Mickey, Minnie, Daisy, Donald, Chip, Dale and some other festive friends as they help Goofy with his holiday woes. This festive deck party includes music, dancing and a special performance that is all part of getting you into the mood for the holiday fun! And, just maybe, a special guest will show up!

Merrytime Carolers

Another special event during the Very Merrytime Cruise is getting to see the Merrytime Carolers. This choral group ( aka your Broadway Show stars) appears at different times throughout the cruise to sing carols and spread holiday cheer. They perform in the Atrium, or on the Deck 4 balcony overlooking the atrium. Either way, be sure to stop and listen. You can check showtimes in the app.

Meet the Disney Characters in Christmas Outfits

Disney Characters can always be found on a Disney Cruise, and makes it all the more magical. As such, it’s no surprise that at Christmas, they get dressed up for the occasion. With Mickey and Minnie in Christmas Sweaters, and fancy outfits, Goofy in his best holiday gear, and more, be sure to pop by to see these Disney characters in some of their best festive costumes. Again check the DCL app while onboard to see all the characters and times.

Watch Christmas Movies Onboard

In addition to all of the holiday fun, there is also all of the regularly scheduled programming. Broadway shows are still shown every evening, and Christmas movies play on deck by the pool and in the movie theater. Plus, you can head to the movie theaters onboard to get your fill of holiday films shown throughout your cruise. 

Holiday Activities on a Very Merrytime Cruise

In addition to all of the larger events that take place throughout your Very Merrytime cruise, check the DCL navigator app for more festive fun! You can expect activities like holiday crafts, holiday trivia, live music holiday sets and more. If you’re on a longer cruise, you’ll see even better programming, with more opportunities for for holiday activities from the entertainment team.

Try Holiday Treats, Drinks and Menu items

There are special holiday treats, drinks and menu items onboard. You can find these many places, but be sure to look in the coffee shops and sweet shop specifically. You may also find a festive drink of the day in the app! In Cabanas, you’ll see holiday items in main dishes, side dishes and desserts. This is a nice change since Cabanas offerings don’t often change much from sailing to sailing.

Christmas Decorations on Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay

If you’re sailing in the Caribbean, you’ll likely be stopping at Disney’s Private island, Castaway Cay or at Lookout Cay. While the cruise ship itself is dressed to the nines in holiday flair, the islands are a little more modest.

Beautifully decorated Christmas trees and fun little winter scenes will be waiting for you as you disembark the ship, and there are small touches throughout the island to spread that holiday cheer. You can also expect Christmas music playing to add to the festive feel.

We recommend getting photos with these festive displays on the way back to the ship. It will be less crowded and you’ll likely have better lighting as the sun starts to go down. Other than that, the island is as beautiful as always and generally has mild, pleasant weather during these months.

Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise Cost

So, How Much is a Very Merrytime Disney Christmas Cruise? A Disney Christmas Cruise typically costs from $1000- $3100 per person depending on your destination, dates, and room choices. Check out our posts on how to choose a Disney Cruise Stateroom and the best ways to save money on a Disney Cruise.

Is Disney Very Merrytime Cruise Worth it?

Is a Disney Very Merrytime Cruise Worth the cost? This is a completely personal question and unfortunately, one that isn’t as easy as a hard “yes” or “no”. Let us start by first saying, that the cost of the Very Merrytime Cruise will rely on a lot of different things. When you’re sailing November cruises are generally be cheaper, except on Thanksgiving. The cost will also depend on what kind of room you choose. Plus where you’re sailing.

The answer for everyone is going to be different on this, but keep in mind that Disney cruises are already more expensive than other cruises. If you have made peace with that fact alone, then you will most likely find that a Disney Very Merrytime Cruise is at an ok price point for you. If you are finding that the cost is leaving you feeling a little less than magical, you might want to consider the pricing of a non-holiday-themed cruise or head to Walt Disney World for the holidays instead, which may be cheaper.

Is a Disney Christmas Cruise More Expensive than a regular Disney Cruise?

In many cases, the cost between a Disney Christmas cruise vs any other type of Disney Cruise will likely be comparable. With a little variation depending on the specifics of your sailing. Except for cruises that are very close to Thanksgiving and Christmas, or ones that actually fall on the holiday, generally Disney Holiday Cruises won’t be complete sticker shock if you’re used to Disney Cruise prices to begin with. For us, it’s absolutely worth it. If you’re looking for a festive, Disney filled vacation, a Very Merrytime Cruise will fit the bill.

The ship you’re sailing on. AND when you decide to book. These things will all have an impact on the cost of your cruise. And if you’re thinking about choosing another holiday cruise instead, we did write up a comparison between a Halloween on the High Seas Cruise or a Disney Very Merrytime Cruise to help you decide.

Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise FAQ

What is Different on a Very Merrytime Disney Cruise?

We’ve been on lots of Disney Cruises, and while they are all magical, Very Merrytime Cruise brings the merry. With specialty snacks, meals, performances, films, trivia, decorations and more there are lots of festive things! With all kinds of fun activities for adults and kids you can enjoy the Christmas Tree lighting, “snow” in the atrium along with holiday crafts and treats. There is no shortage of festive fun on a Disney Very Merrytime Cruise. See below for some of our favorite things to do on a Disney Very Merrytime Sailing.

Does a Disney Merrytime Cruise Still Have Pirate Night?

Yes! Pirate Night is still held on all itineraries that would normally have Pirate Night.  Most Itineraries sailing in the Caribbean have Pirate Night; so as long as your itinerary would normally have it, then your Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise will as well.

Are there any Disney Cruises during Christmas Day?

Yep! They’re not really common, but generally every year there are at least one or two cruises that are sailing on Christmas day. If you’re sailing on a Disney Very Merrytime cruise on Christmas Eve and Christmas day, there are special activities just for you! Enjoy milk and Christmas cookies, holiday themed towel friends and participate in Christmas Caroling with cast members onboard.

Is Church Available on a Disney Christmas Cruise?

Yes. There is a Catholic Mass held at midnight on Christmas Eve and an interdenominational Christian service available on Christmas morning. Check your Cruise Navigator for details on times.

Is Santa on Disney Merrytime Cruise?

He is! Guests will have a chance to meet Santa and let him know what they want for Christmas this year. And Mrs. Claus does storytime in the atrium as well! The Disney Very Merrytime Cruises are a great way to experience everything Christmas. So, bring your Christmas List and your camera to capture all of the memories of the season.

Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise Tips

With so many things to do on a Disney Christmas Cruise, no matter where you sail, there are a few tips that we absolutely had to share!

Take at least a 4-Night Very Merrytime Disney Cruise

How Long of a Disney Christmas Cruise Should You Take? As long as you can! This is obviously advice that you can take with a grain of salt, but if your budget and schedule allow, we don’t recommend taking any less than a 4-Night Very Merrytime Cruise. There is so much to see and do in addition to the regularly scheduled programming that you’ll likely feel rushed, trying to fit it all in. Since the holiday season generally tends to feel rushed, we think your cruise vacation definitely shouldn’t. Longer sailings will also have more programming with events that are saved for longer voyages, like Anyone Can Cook and towel folding.

Arrive Early to Events, Shows and Parties

Whether you’re headed to the deck party, a character meet and greet or the movie on the pool deck, plan ahead. Some character lines begin forming long before the meeting times, and getting a good spot at these exclusive holiday shows is a MUST! Plan to be there 20-30 minutes ahead of time to save your spot, get in line, or settle in.

Be ready for Photo Ops

Whether you’ve purchased the PhotoPass package or are taking pictures on your own, there are so many photos to be had! From beautiful pics featuring the ship decorations, to character sightings and performances, have the camera ( or phone) ready.

Decorate your Room and Stateroom Door

Add some good cheer to your deck hallway with decorations on your stateroom door and lights in your room! Why shouldn’t you bring a little Christmas with you wherever you go? We have Christmas Cruise Magnets in the shop, and ideas for even more Disney Cruise Door Decorations here on the blog. You can also snag a specialty gift from Disney Flower and Gifts to be delivered to your room.

Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise Packing

We have a Disney Cruise packing list here to help you pack for any kind of cruise! And if you’re sailing somewhere colder, check out what to pack for a cold weather Disney Cruise. Head to the Disney Cruise Packing List section for all the options.

What Should You Pack for a Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise?

Not all Very Merrytime Cruises include trips to the Caribbean. But if your cruise is taking you to somewhere that is considered “warmer” during this time of year, keep in mind that you may need to pack a variety of clothes. Not only can it be considerably hotter than you’d expect, but during the winter, sometimes the temps can get pretty chilly at night. Make layers your new best friend. Be sure to check the weather ahead of time as well; don’t assume because it’s “warmer” that it will be warm. Most recently, we traveled mid-November and we needed shorts and t-shirts during the day and sweatshirts in the evening.

Dress Festive for a Disney Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise

Remember it’s a Christmas cruise! Pack your ugly sweater for all the fun photo ops, decorate your stateroom door and get in the Christmas spirit. We even purchased these cute little Mickey cardholder lanyards and decorated them for our Key to The World Card. You didn’t pay extra for a Very Merrytime Cruise for nothing! We purchased this set pictured above as an extra amenity before our cruise started to add some holiday flair and it was the perfect souvenir from our trip!

Disney Christmas Cruise Shirts

Heading to sea for the holidays? Disney Cruise is complete with a souvenir shirt to remember the occasion. While we have loads of Disney Cruise Shirts in the shop if you’re traveling for the merry season then why not grab a Disney Christmas Cruise Very Merrytime Shirt to jumpstart your vacation? Or head to the beach with a Castaway Cay Christmas Shirt. Or if you’re looking for something a little more subtle, you can try our Merriest Cruise that Ever Sailed Christmas Cruise Shirt. These are soft jersey, unisex shirts. And we always recommend sizing up if you’re unsure, for a more relaxed look. You can also grab a Disney Christmas Cruise Door Magnet in this collection to match. Check out the links for all our shop collections.

Disney Very Merrytime Cruise Review

While some events we write about are easy for us to say “do it once” or “pass it all together”, a Disney Very Merrytime Cruise can really be a once-in-a-lifetime trip or an annual holiday tradition depending on your family.  But if you’re looking for a trip that combines the magic of Disney with the magic of the season without the crowds you’ll find in the parks and while feeling like you’re actually on vacation, then a Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise may be exactly what Santa ordered.