MagicBands on Disney Cruise Line can be super convenient, but whether you need one is another story. Here’s what they actually do — and when it’s worth buying one (or not).
What MagicBands Do on a Disney Cruise
MagicBand+ and DisneyBand+ (they’re the exact same thing with different names) work on Disney ships for:
- Kids Club check-in and check-out
- Accessing your stateroom
- Buying drinks and merch onboard
- Triggering special effects, like lighting up during fireworks
- Link shipboard photos
They’re also fully waterproof, so you can swim, snorkel, or hit the AquaMouse without worrying about your room key getting soaked.
But you STILL need your Key to the World (KttW) card
This is a big one. Even with a MagicBand+, you must carry your Key to the World card to:
- Get off the ship in port
- Get back on the ship
- Show ID at security and gangways
So the DisneyBand+ doesn’t replace the card instead it just makes life easier while onboard.
Do you need one for the kids club?
No.
If your child goes to the Oceaneer Club or Lab and you don’t have a MagicBand, Disney will loan your child a band for the cruise at no charge. You just return it at the end or pay a $25 fee.
Some families prefer to use their own MagicBands so all the kids are matching and the bands feel more personal, but it’s not required.
The downsides
DisneyBands look cool, but there are a couple of small annoyances:
- To charge drinks or snacks, Cast Members sometimes need to take the band back to their scanner behind the bar.
- They can get pricey, especially if you’re buying for the whole family.
- You still have to carry your Key to the World card for ports.
A simple lanyard is the alternative many cruisers prefer, especially for kids.
Why some people still buy them
If you love the convenience, tapping into your room, kids club, and onboard purchases, the MagicBand is genuinely helpful. And if your child tends to lose things, wearing a band is way easier than keeping track of a card.
Plus, if you order through your Disney Cruise Line DisneyBand preorder link, you get:
- Free custom engraving inside the band
- Exclusive cruise-themed designs
- Free shipping (US only)
- The ability to select a band for each person once their accounts are linked to the reservation
Not all ShopDisney designs appear in the cruise portal, but the cruise-exclusive bands are a fun perk.
So… should you buy one?
You don’t need a MagicBand to have a great cruise. The ship gives your child a temporary band if needed, and a lanyard works perfectly for Key to the World cards.
Buy one if:
- You love the convenience
- You prefer not to juggle a card
- Your kids like wearing theirs
- You want the cruise-exclusive designs
Skip it if:
- You’re trying to keep costs down
- You don’t mind using a lanyard
- You only care about practical function, not the novelty