Once you're on board you might be able to upgrade your cabin for a small fee. The Disney ship's staff may be willing to give you an upgrade for less than what you would have paid if you had made the request before the sailing, according to MouseSavers.com. This will depend on whether there are any empty cabins.
Embarking as soon as possible will allow you to be among the first to ask for cabin upgrades. There are other advantages as well. By boarding the ship as soon as possible you're extending your vacation. Use the extra time to learn the layout of the ship, make dining and spa reservations or grab a quick bite before the crowds arrive. Also, all Disney ships produce a daily newsletter called the Personal Navigator. Get a copy of it to help with your planning. You'll find a list of activities and other useful information. Look for the Navigator in your room, or you can pick a copy up at Guest Services on Deck 3, Midship.
The onboard restaurants are great, but also allow yourself to be pampered by room service. Start your day by having a fresh pot of coffee or juice delivered to your room. MouseSavers.com suggests having milk and cookies delivered at night for the children in your party. Room service is free on all Disney cruises, and that's another good reason to take advantage of it.
There's always a mad rush to get off Disney ships at their exciting ports of call such as Cozumel, Mexico or Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. The excitement is understandable, but think about staying behind for a while or not getting off at all if the port doesn't seem all that interesting to you. As the ship empties, you and the few others who stay behind will have pools, sun decks, hot tubs and lounge areas all to yourselves. You'll be able to relax and sunbathe in relative quiet.
Check your Personal Navigator each morning for times and places to meet Mickey and other characters, as these appearances vary by ship. Quickly learn the peak times for these functions and come earlier or later to have your picture taken with the characters. Sometimes Mickey, Minnie and the others will make surprise appearances, so keep your camera ready.
Ask members of the ship's crew how to avoid other lines. They know all the tricks, such as showing up for dinner just a few minutes after seating begins. According to MouseSavers.com, that often will allow you to walk right in without having to wait.
Consider booking your next cruise while still aboard the ship. Check with the Guest Services Desk aboard any Disney ship to see if special discounts are available for signing up for your next Disney cruise.
