Newsbits from around Disney Destinations

Richard Petty Driving Experience set to close in Late June of 2015.  While no plans have been officially released by Disney, it is speculated that it will become a part of the TTC parking lot.

Tom Staggs has been named COO of The Walt Disney Company.  He will continue his duties as Chairman of Disney Parks and Resorts until his successor has been selected.

The Mad T Party returns to Disney California Adventure on May 22, 2015.

Star Wars is coming to Disney Cruise Lines in 2016.  Special sailings aboard the Disney Fantasy will feature one night during each cruise with a Star Wars theming.  There will be viewings of Star Wars films and Star Wars Rebels from Disney XD.  Cruises depart from Port Canaveral on Jan. 9, 23; Feb 6, 20; Mar 5, 19; and Apr. 2, 19, 2016.  It will be a 7-night Western Caribbean Cruise including port call at Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Caymen; and Disney Castaway Cay.

Family Friendly…DCL

DCL Logo

While I haven’t been on a Disney Cruise, yet, I can see some distinct benefits to sailing on one of these fabulous ships! Whether it’s the grandeur of the larger ships, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy, or the smaller, more intimate Disney Magic or Disney Wonder, these ships are what I would call, Family Friendly.

Most cruise ships offer gambling as an option for entertainment, I personally, don’t find this appealing for my taste.  I am also a bit skiddish about exposing my children to the gambling at relatively young and impressionable ages.  On Disney Cruise ships there are no casinos on board.  There are casinos available at most ports of call, but I like the fact that those spaces have been used to create areas that have more benefits for the younger cruisers in your family.

On Disney Cruise ships there are club spaces for kids of all ages.  This is a benefit because they have to opportunity to meet and make new friends while sailing.  The benefit for the parents is that it allows for periods of adult time to relax and reconnect while the kids are under the care of Disney’s professional childcare!  Edge is where kids ages 11 – 14 can play video games, watch television, or enjoy a number of other activities designed specifically for there cruise experience.  Vibe is for kids 14-17 and allows older teens to make friends their age and also provides unique experiences for their onboard ship fun in the sun. Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab are for younger children and pre-teens, respectively.  Each provides it’s unique experiences that will build a lifetime of memories for your children.

There are also activities meant to allow the entire family to spend time together.  Dining experiences are a fun way to fill the time with family memories, and the food is delicious!  A little side-note here, if you have issues with diet, make sure to say something to the greeter and wait staff.  They will be able to assist you with all of your needs!

Probably the biggest advantage to a Disney Cruise, is the character interactions!  Some of the best opportunities to meet characters can be found on board a Disney Ship!  There is also an awesome opportunity to see your artwork come to life during your rotational dining, at Animator’s Palate.

I can’t wait for my first Disney Cruise, but in the meantime, I’m going to enjoy watching my friends reports and gleaning from there experiences as I plan my trip.

Thanks for reading, my friends, and have a Blessed and Magical day!!