Halloween on the High Seas: Our Magical Cruise Aboard the Disney Wish
In October 2024, my family and I embarked on a dream vacation aboard the Disney Wish, a 4-night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian cruise. From the moment we booked our flights to Orlando (MCO) with Southwest points—using companion passes for two free tickets and only $10 per person in fees—we knew we were in for an unforgettable adventure.
We arrived in Orlando on Saturday, October 12, two days before our cruise, and stayed at WorldMark Kingston Reef using timeshare points. It was the perfect way to settle in and get ready for our magical journey from Port Canaveral.
Boarding day was a breeze. Our friends opted for Disney transportation for $75 per person, which got them into Groups 1 and 2 for priority boarding. After the concierge guests, Groups 1 and 2 were called, and we walked with them through the iconic Mickey-shaped entrance into the stunning atrium of the Disney Wish.
From the grand chandelier that dazzled with the midnight light show called the Midnight Kiss. to the elegant statue of Cinderella and her glass slipper, the ambiance was enchanting. Halloween-themed decor, including the giant Halloween tree (called Boo), added a festive touch, with photo opportunities and themed shows bringing the magic of the season to life.
We stayed in stateroom 9596 on Deck 9, which comfortably sleeps five. The split bathroom design—a tub/shower and sink in one room and a toilet and sink in another—was a game-changer for getting everyone ready. Our veranda offered a peaceful retreat with ocean views, perfect for quiet moments.
On any Disney Cruise, you will find most doors decorated. It makes it easier to find your cabin amongst the seas of doors that look exactly the same. And it is a ton of fun to do. Since we were on a Halloween-themed cruise, we opted for halloween/fall decor. The cabin doors are magnetic, so we brought a bunch of disney themed magnets, a halloween wreath, and a white board for people to leave messages.
Room service was free, and we tipped just $1 per item to the delivery staff, which made it a convenient and budget-friendly option. Plus, you can get those mickey ice cream bars (the ones that cost over $5 at the Disney Parks) for free with room service, as well as the cake of the day. The ship’s laundry facilities were efficient and easy to use, with the Disney Cruise Line app notifying us when our cycles were complete.
Disney’s rotational dining is a standout feature. We enjoyed the 5:45 p.m. main dining slot, moving through three themed restaurants:
1923: A classy tribute to Walt and Roy Disney, complete with delicious meals and nostalgic decor.
Worlds of Marvel: A high-tech dining experience with a live-action Marvel show featuring beloved characters, like Ant Man, Wasp and a special surprise from Spider-man.
Arendelle: A lively engagement party for Anna and Kristoff, complete with live performances from "Frozen" characters.
Our waitstaff followed us to each dining room, already knowing our preferences and even having drinks ready upon arrival. With our kids’ nut allergies pre-noted, we felt completely at ease.
We also indulged in the Palo Steakhouse brunch for $50 per person. The food was outstanding—so much so that we couldn’t even finish our pizza! Though we didn’t try Enchanté, its $125-per-person French-inspired menu is on our list for next time.
There was something for everyone on the Disney Wish:
Pools and AquaMouse: With 8 pools onboard and the thrilling AquaMouse, a water ride complete with a short film, water lovers were in heaven. For quiet relaxation, the Chip and Dale pool on Deck 14 was our go-to spot.
Hero Zone: This two-story indoor sports arena kept us busy with basketball, foosball, air hockey, and even a "Diaper Dash" baby race.
Nightly Shows: The entertainment lineup was spectacular. We saw Disney Seas the Adventure, The Little Mermaid, and Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular. The Genie’s humor had us in stitches!
Movie Time: Two cinemas onboard, Wonderland and Neverland, screened Disney classics and new hits. I even watched Deadpool and Wolverine with freshly popped popcorn—pro tip: bring your Disney popcorn bucket from any Disney Resort for $1.50 refills!
Kids’ Clubs: From the It’s a Small World Nursery to the Oceaneer Club, Edge, and Vibe, kids of all ages had their own magical spaces to explore. The slide from the atrium to the Oceaneer Club was a highlight, and yes, adults could try it during open house hours!
The Disney Wish offers an array of spots to grab a drink or snack:
Bars: We loved exploring Currents, the Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge, The Bayou, and Nightingale’s.
Cove Café: Specialty coffees here came with Disney character designs on the foam—too cute to drink!
Dining Options: Soft-serve ice cream on the pool deck rotated flavors daily, and Donald’s Cantina, Mickey’s Smokestack BBQ, and Daisy’s Pizza Pies provided endless quick bites.
The Halloween festivities added an extra layer of fun. From themed decorations to special events by the Halloween tree, the cruise was brimming with spooky, family-friendly excitement.
The Disney Wish delivered everything we dreamed of and more. From luxurious accommodations and world-class dining to nonstop entertainment and impeccable service, it’s a cruise line that truly caters to every member of the family. Whether you’re watching Broadway-style shows, indulging in gourmet meals, or just lounging on your private veranda, every moment feels magical.
Would we do it again? Absolutely. The Disney Wish isn’t just a vacation—it’s an experience we’ll treasure forever.
Until Next Time,
Faith
