First Time on a Disney Cruise? Here's What You Must Prepare Before Boarding!

Not to scare you, but if it's your first time on Disney Wish, make sure to read this!
On my first day, I was completely confused trying to find my room and check activities.
This is a practical guide based on my personal experience to help all first-timers avoid common pitfalls 👇

1️⃣ Download the Disney Cruise Line App 📲
This app will be your ultimate tool at sea!
✅ Before boarding, you can complete check-in, upload your passport, and select your boarding time (the earlier, the better).
✅ Once onboard, it automatically switches to ship mode, and you can use it even without purchasing Wi-Fi.
✅ It includes schedules, character appearances, dining information, and more.

2️⃣ Prepare a "carry-on bag" 🎒
Your luggage won't arrive at your room until the afternoon, so make sure to pack:
🌞 Sunscreen / Sunglasses / Swimsuit (many people head straight to the pool after boarding)
🔌 Power bank / Boarding pass / Various documents
🍿 Snacks / Water / Flip-flops / Earplugs (you'll definitely need these!)

3️⃣ Bring your own water bottle or insulated cup!
❌ There's no kettle in the room.
❄️ The drink station only offers iced water and soda.
✅ Bring an insulated cup or head to Deck 14 to fill up on water as soon as you board. Bottled water is quite pricey.

4️⃣ Plan character meet-and-greets & restaurant seating early 📸
If you love popular characters like Mickey or Elsa, check their appearance times on the app as soon as you board!
🍽️ Restaurant seating is system-assigned, but you can ask staff for adjustments or swap seats with friends.

5️⃣ Should you buy Wi-Fi? Here's my advice:
💡 Ship Wi-Fi is slow and expensive, so skip it unless necessary.
We shared one account among family members, which was cost-effective and sufficient.

✨ Quick Tips:
✔️ The pool is shallow, great for photos and relaxing, but not for actual swimming.
✔️ There's a free ice cream machine, theater, and kids' activity area onboard—no extra charges!

🌈 In summary: Disney Wish has lots of details and activities. To fully enjoy your trip, make sure to plan ahead!
Our family had an amazing time, enjoying great food, fun activities, and creating wonderful memories!