What activities are on a Disney Cruise besides the shows and characters?

There is a surprising amount to do on a Disney Cruise beyond the headline shows and character meet and greets. In fact, many of the best activities are low key, drop in experiences that you discover as you go, especially once you start checking the daily schedule in the app.

Throughout the cruise, Disney offers animation classes for both families and adults, along with trivia sessions that are clearly labeled by age group. There are also craft sessions, early morning coloring activities, cooking demonstrations, and towel and napkin folding classes. Kids Club open houses allow parents to explore the spaces with their kids, and there are movie screenings running all day, including first run Disney films.

Families can join in character themed game shows, sometimes with characters themselves participating. You will also find nightly photo backdrops set up in the atrium, along with magic shots and other professional photo opportunities. Unique events like Jack Jack’s Diaper Dash, where crawling babies race across the floor, are a highlight for families traveling with little ones. Ship tours and experiences like Art of the Theme, which is for adults, offer a deeper look at Disney storytelling and design.

On deck, there is no shortage of casual fun. You can ride the AquaDuck, watch movies on Funnel Vision, sing your heart out at karaoke, attend live singing performances, play bingo, or join a silent disco or dance party. There is also mini golf on the upper decks, shuffleboard along deck four, and a sports simulator for those who want something a little more interactive.

Some of the best moments are the quiet, unstructured ones. Enjoying a latte in the adults only café, watching the sunrise or sunset from your balcony or from the deck can be just as memorable as any scheduled event. Exploring the ship itself is an activity many people overlook. The design details are everywhere, even down to the bathrooms, which are themed with beautiful tile and thoughtful design touches.

If you prefer winding down, room service paired with a movie in your stateroom is always an option and is included in your cruise fare. Whether you want a packed schedule or a slower pace, there is far more to do on a Disney Cruise than most people expect once you look beyond the shows and characters.