Smooth Sailing: Disney Cruise Edition

Activity

Walking paths:

  • Disney Magic and Wonder: Full loop walking path on deck 4

    • 3 labs= 1 mile

  • DIsney Dream and Fantasy: Full loop walking path on deck 4

    • 2.5 labs= 1 mile

  • Disney Wish, Treasure, and Dream: U-shaped walking path. No full loop available but can connect floors with stairs

Senses Salon & Spa:

  • All Disney ships have a fitness center located in the Senses Salon & Spa

  • Includes your traditional exercise equipment: treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, free weights, and weight machines

  • Fitness Classes: Variety including yoga, pilates, full body, spin and more.

    • Check your navigator app on board for the specific selection available on your cruise

    • Some classes charge a nominal fee— this will be noted in the navigator app

Pools:

  • If you love water aerobics or swimming laps, the pools on the Disney Cruise ships generally do not accommodate these activities and are more directed towards relaxation or family swim

Other Tips:

  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator! Fewer stops, more steps, and great strength training & cardio!

  • Take a 10-15 minute walk after meals. There is plenty to see around the ship- use this as an opportunity to explore while regulating glucose!

Quick-Service Dining

Table Service Dining

Know the Rotation

  • Disney Cruise rotates guests through different dining rooms with themed menus.

  • Check menus online before your cruise—you can plan meals, swaps, or ask for modifications.

  • Dining times generally include two different options (usually around 545 pm and 815 pm). Try to select the option which is closest to your typical routine. If you cannot get your preferred option, waitlist the preferred time in your Disney Cruise App and also visit guest services once you embark on your cruise if you have not been moved at that point.

  • This helps prevent unexpected sugar or carb spikes.

Start With Protein & Veggies

  • Each table service meal includes an appetizer, entree, and dessert (or more if you ask!). You do not need to order from each category and can personalize what is best for you!

  • Look for protein-rich options (grilled fish, chicken, beef, plant-based proteins).

  • Pair with non-starchy vegetables instead of heavy starches when possible.

  • Protein + fiber slows glucose absorption and keeps you full longer.

  • If an option is not on the menu, ASK! Disney Cruise is excellent about accommodating specific requests AND having them available at your future dinners if you ask ahead of time.

Ask for Modifications

  • Along those lines…Disney staff are usually very accommodating.

  • Don’t hesitate to request:

    • Sauces or dressings on the side

    • Smaller portions of rice, pasta, or potatoes

    • Extra vegetables instead of starches

  • Also, you can stop at Guest Services to request a meeting with your head server/dining team when you board the ship! We have done this on every Disney Cruise to make our serving team aware of our child’s tree nut allergy. You can also make requests as listed above so you will have a smooth-sailing experience at your first dinner that evening!

Monitor Glucose Strategically

  • Check glucose before meals to guide portion choices.

  • Have small, portable snacks ready in case you need a mid-course correction. Some of these dinners are long, and courses can take some time to be served

  • For CGM users, make a note of meals that cause spikes—great for future cruises!