I had the opportunity to go on a Disney Cruise with L, something we had promised to do since last year. The pricing for the staterooms is based on two adults, meaning that even if only one person travels, they still pay the full price. Since a stateroom can accommodate up to four guests, sharing the room is a smart way to save money. L is a big Disney fan, and since his partner isn’t interested in cruises, he invited me to join him on this trip. Given that the Disney Cruise rarely stops in Singapore, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to experience something special together. This is the background behind my decision to embark on this journey.
The weather seemed calm for travelling!
Honestly, the price I paid for the cruise was quite wallet-damaging, but I believe it offers great value for the experience I’m about to have. I hope it will be worth it with the amenities and activities included. I’m determined to make the most of this adventure and embrace everything the cruise has to offer. Let’s embark on this journey together! If you want to go on your own Disney Adventure Cruise, you can click here to find out more.
Getting ready with my mood and luggage, hope for a smooth trip.
I wanted to bring a prop or costume on this trip, but I don't have space for it, and I highly doubt that an adult man in costume would be well-received or might be judged by the public.
Anyway, since I didn't bring any, I just continued on and arrived at my favourite station - Marina South Pier Station - to get the cruise.
Hi L, my sister's friend, my Halloween night mate, one of my school CCA instructors, and now my cruise mate for these days.
Instead of taking the ferry to Lazarus Island, I was walking this time to use a different exit.
(Credit L) Ooo, I spotted something.
Snap a picture of the Disney Adventure Cruise here.
Looks like we’re staying on this ship for a few days. What’s the magic about it? Can't wait to board the ship.
(Credit L) let's start our adventure!
Mickey flag for Disney Adventure Cruise.
Everyone was getting ready for a custom check.
The check-in process was efficient, as the cruise had ample staff to assist, allowing us to board smoothly.
(Credit L) What a beautiful carpet on the cruise!
Since we checked in for the early slot, our room will not be available until 2 PM. In the meantime, we plan to explore the cruise or enjoy some complimentary refreshments. Take a look at this slide, the kids are going to love it!
The ship features an open garden located centrally, spanning decks 10 through 18.
The balconies of these rooms will overlook the garden rather than the sea, offering a unique perspective.
As an individual who appreciates the sea, I would prefer a room with a sea view. Nevertheless, I may consider other room options here occasionally, if I am loaded...
From the top of the cruise, I observed Marina South Pier, the departure point for the ferry to Lazarus. I had considered visiting Lazarus first for some time, but ultimately decided against it...
Wow, the roller coaster’s already started? Some guests got on the cruise before us.
L mentioned that there will be a Disney welcoming performance at the Imagination Garden, which is expected to attract a large audience.
Many Disney characters joined in and danced with the guests, creating an engaging and lively start to the cruise.
Those who have their balconies facing the stage can enjoy the show without any obstruction. However, it can be noisy if you want to have a good daytime rest in your room—who knows, their windows might be soundproof. I am not sure.
This Imagination Garden has a wonderful musical ambience, and I would be honoured to perform on it if I am well-received by the audience.
Look at the beautiful exterior here - magical.
I find myself speaking like Mickey whenever I encounter a Mickey character.
While waiting to check in, we went to find free food, and as a vegetarian who doesn't eat pungent vegetables, I found it difficult to get something for myself. I got a pizza without tomato sauce, which still had onion...
(Credit L) At the very least, L was able to enjoy his meal.
Knock knock. The room is ready!
Wow, it's way bigger and nicer than I thought!
This stateroom has four beds, but we only require two. I will occupy the left bed, and L will take the right bed.
Check this out: the toilet is big and clean!
The upper deck beds are designed to fold backwards when not in use, effectively transforming them into an art display frame.
There is an interesting tradition on Disney cruises that I noticed: most passengers, especially families with kids, decorate their metal stateroom doors with magnets or artwork.
On my left is the door decoration, which I love, and on the right is the door...
...of my friend - JY and WJ, with their son, also went on the same cruise!
L and I, being grown-ups, don’t put up anything to show which rooms are for family or for boring folks. Haha! Returning to the main topic, this cruise primarily targets children, offering a wide range of activities designed for them.
There is a designated drawing area for children, and I believe it may not appeal to adults.
I’m more into things I don’t come across every day.
Like this furniture.
(Credit L) Here’s where I got my Mjölnir for cosplay! But how I wish I had brought my costume along...
Just look at the Spider-Man costume!
It is so beautiful that it doesn't need a fat-me to dress it.
(Credit L) As I walked around, I saw tons of Disney art galleries. I wanted to take pics of everything, but wow, there’s just too much!
We visited Deck 10, which includes Discovery Reef and Quick-Service Dining, featuring a reef-themed environment at Disney.
At the rear of the cruise ship, there is a pool area where guests can relax, sunbathe, and enjoy performances and Disney movies. I am eager to return here; however, considering the pool's size and guests, I am uncertain about swimming in it.
It was about 4 PM, and we were still at the port, which was good because data roaming doesn't work on the cruise. To connect to WiFi for surfing, checking email, playing games, or streaming, you will need to pay a high price (with the basic guest WiFi, you can do basic WhatsApp texting). I need to clear my daily routine and purchase 24-hour WiFi the next day.
At approximately 4:30 PM, all personnel were directed to their respective sections and decks for the mandatory safety briefing.
Something funny - I was standing at the back of the safety briefing, near a ventilation opening where it was windy. Why so? Because it sucks air inwards, which sucks my hair upwards. Haha, I think it is not a popular spot for individuals with longer hair.
We got a little tired, so we took a short nap, and I also wanted to charge my phone.
I noticed one of the available programs, the Lucky Draw, which offered prizes worth $500. Wishing the fortunate winner success.
She called out the number 30431... 1!!! Wait, what?! I was so lucky to experience a miss! Haha!
Following a brief rest and a lucky draw, we had already departed. Goodbye Singapore!
Do you still remember that I mentioned previously that there are many artworks on this cruise? There are indeed too many!
I wanted to catch every single performance in the live Broadway-style shows, but unfortunately, we were not allowed to take photos or videos of the performance. Perhaps you could find some videos on YouTube. It was very well performed!
Oh my! I discovered a vegan burger that I was able to enjoy daily at no cost.
(Credit L) I greatly admire this artwork depicting an overview of the cruise area.
A sunset, but nothing too flashy with the colours.
Our first dinner of the day was scheduled at the latest time slot to allow us to experience fine dining.
The restaurant is called The Navigator's Club, and their world map napkin design is quite impressive.
Most of their vegan options have onions and garlic, which limited my dining experience, so they provided Jain food for all my meals. Honestly, I am not complaining; I just wonder why they can't offer an option to opt out of those pungent vegetables. Oh well, at least there is something for me. :)
After dining, I felt so bloated. I thought it was due to the burger I had eaten earlier, yet I tried to finish the Jain dinner. I felt uncomfortable breathing, but I still wanted to step out to explore the night scene on the upper deck, so we wouldn't miss out. Weirdly, not many people were using the pool. Ah, I see. There was a shower just now, so the pool was closed. If the pool's situation is like this, I want to enter the pool, but my bloated tummy makes it impossible...
I heard there was an Adult Zone somewhere at the back of the cruise called The Quiet Cove Pool, and we found this infinity pool and a bar for adult use only. Honestly, it is perfect, and we can see what is happening below and have an unblocked view of a vast horizon, too. I will return here in the coming days.
Upon our return, I noticed that the house attendant had arranged a towel in the shape of a stingray on my bed. It was a thoughtful gesture.
I informed L that I would be unable to attend the Disney workout program and went to bed early due to stomach discomfort... Good night, cruise. Zzz...
The next morning, I woke up early to explore the cruise by myself.
Ugly Nerd in front of a mirror, feeling fat...
The weather seemed gloomy. Will we have heavy rain later?
I arrived quite early on the upper deck, so not many facilities were operational yet.
So I met up with WJ and JY for breakfast, as L was also having breakfast with his friends.
Not long; the crowds started to show up, and it was suffocating, if my expression can't fully convey how I felt at that moment. I am unsure why I feel this way, but even in the absence of a crowd, I would still feel uncomfortable swimming there as a disgusting adult, especially in a swimming trunk, an eyesore to the public's eyes.
Since I can't swim, maybe I can try out some mini entertainment like this. L wanted to try too.
This one is called Groot Galaxy Spin. Okay, at least something to clear off my checklist.
Smile!
Given that the roller coaster was temporarily closed for maintenance and there was no significant queue for the Pym Quantum Racers, it seems reasonable to try it now!
I appreciate the concept of attraction design. Why so?
Since Pym Quantum Racers is inspired by the Marvel character Ant-Man, he can shrink to the size of an ant. The whole concept is that he uses toy cars for racing, which are more affordable than real cars.
(Credit L) L was trying to snap a pic of me in a small car, and somehow I didn't know that my camera was on, so it snapped photos without me knowing—just like Ant-Man snapped a photo of me from the bottom. Haha
Anyway, after we cleared some attractions, L wanted to catch some sleep, and I decided to go to another zone to do my own thing—sunbathing!
Honestly, this was the most peaceful moment I experienced on the Disney Cruise.
No kids. No noise. Just peace.
I went for the infinity pool too.
But the water was rather cold, and it was a little awkward where I placed my camera for photos; many adults felt uncomfortable seeing a nerd taking photos of himself, rather disgusting.
I don't have what this is, but it looks like an infinity of colours.
Looking down at a movie show is interesting, but it will be better viewed at night.
Okay, back to suntan and keep myself dry.
Kinda windy here.
Very chill weather today.
I returned to my room and had a good nap because there were some judgmental stares from a group of youths with better bodies, as they mocked me from a distance. So... they could have a place for their taunts...
Okay, time to have a proper bath and a new set of clothes.
My typical overseas attire! Haha
Everyone was lining up for another live Broadway show, and we aimed to secure seats on the first floor close to the stage, so we arrived early.
We were able to secure front-row seats, and the show titled 'Remember' was truly moving.
I know I should not snap a photo of it, but I can't help it, as the show is so memorable. It is about Pixar's WALL-E on a long journey to restore EVE's memories, and features many Disney characters and Pixar heroes through emotional storytelling, stunning visuals, and immersive special effects.
The sunset is truly beautiful, especially following an afternoon of a rather sombre mood.
(Credit L) Capturing a photograph of the sunset proved challenging due to the need to balance the lighting between the foreground and background.
(Credit L) I will need to perform post-editing to adjust the lighting appropriately.
Where were we now? I needed to use WiFi for some work and to complete game dailies, so I had purchased a day of cruise WiFi to get my GPS working. We were on the South China Sea, and the ship was taking a loop.
The dawn ended quite fast.
It is now time for dinner at Animator's Palate.
At the Animator's Palate restaurant, guests were invited to create a character within the blue outline. Unsure of what to draw, I opted to sketch myself.
And the show began with mine and the other two to kickstart the animation. What a fun way to interact with the guests while waiting for their food to be ready. From what I observed, this restaurant was divided into sections. Guests in each section submitted their drawings, which were then animated and displayed within their own section, while everyone saw their own drawings in their respective sections.
And saw my name too. Haha
We were also awarded a gold sticker for our artwork.
Today was L's birthday, and that was the one main reason why I agreed to go on the cruise. Happy birthday to you, L.
And after dinner, we returned to our room and found this: they had made him a towel cake. What a surprise!
After dinner, we planned to relax by the infinity pool. I informed L that the crew had previously mentioned the pool might be closed due to fireworks, which L didn't believe. However, it turned out I was correct. Anyway, I just looked at the number of people here on the top deck! It was 9:45 PM, and the fireworks would start after 10:30 PM. It was already packed with people, all trying to get the best view of the fireworks.
It was "The Lion King: Celebration in the Sky" that only happens on the 2nd day of the cruise. I heard that Disney Cruise is the only cruise line authorised to launch such a firework show at sea, and it will be narrated by Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan.
Boom boom boom! Fireworks illuminated the night sky. I imagine L must be delighted to have such a celebration on his birthday.
Well, I shall have one firework shot for myself. Cheers and good night, cruise, thanks for lighting up my life.
For the third day, I decided to wear Disney character socks on my feet.
So where was I heading out in the morning?
Nice weather today!
Perfect weather...
...for suntan!
I continued to disgust the guests who intended to use this seat!
Honestly, this is the perfect time to just enjoy the heat and tranquillity.
The vast blue horizon before me provided a significant sense of mental clarity and space.
Observe the clear sky; it mirrors the emptiness of my mind.
I was surprised to realise that I had napped for over 30 minutes until I sensed people walking by, and it was a nice nap.
While looking down, I noticed a movie screening and a jacuzzi, which prompted me to consider trying it later.
I should get a back tan in such good sunlight; however, I cannot stay long here and have missed my spot...
...because L had made an appointment for this.
Obtaining a photo with Mickey can be challenging due to the limited availability of slots.
(Credit the staff) When I approached Mickey, I mimicked his voice and greeted him with, 'How are you, partner?' Mickey appeared surprised and responded by opening his arms for a hug. Haha
(Credit the staff) To L's surprise, he also took this opportunity to hug Mickey, which not many had tried.
(Credit the staff) It was a quick game since we just had to take a few posed shots so others wouldn't have to wait too long.
We tried to snap it off from the photo booth because we could not afford anything.
Obtaining an autograph from Mickey was L's most joyful moment.
I came across this hairband, and it reminded me of my elder brother, who is a fan of Chip and Dale, so I decided to purchase it for him. I wore it for the remaining days on the Disney cruise like everyone else. In the end, my brother didn’t want it, so I got to keep the pricey hairband...
As previously mentioned, I returned to the rear of the cruise ship to use the jacuzzi.
There was a guy in the jacuzzi, so I’ll get ready after he’s done.
I hope my disgusting body will disgust him to speed up his enjoyment while I enjoy the tanning here.
And yes! I managed to disgust him! Now the whole jacuzzi is mine! I can relax and watch the movie here.
But... It was way too bright to see anything, and some kids jumped into the jacuzzi with their worried parents watching and judging.
I believe it would be best for me to leave this area and return to the adult zone to continue enjoying the tanning there.
It appears I spent too much time tanning, resulting in a headache and dehydration, so I chose to stop. By the time I decided to pack up, the children and parents had moved to the shaded jacuzzi...
I was able to view the section of the cruise featuring rooms with balconies overlooking the sea. I admire those accommodations.
Since I was unable to tan and began experiencing a headache, I returned to a shaded area to have lunch alone.
I have been eager to visit the Marvel Style Studio since day one. It is a styling salon where guests can enjoy hair, makeup, and apparel inspired by their favourite superheroes. Normally, you need an appointment, but L just popped in and told me to go. And guess what? I managed to sneak in!
Why do I want to get in? Because I want to see their Marvel merchandise, especially their Infinite Saga props. However, it seems like they don't have it all...
(image credit shopDisney) I am trying to get these Marvel artefacts for the Infinity Stones at Epcot. I got the Infinity Gauntlet with stones, but I wanted to know the price of these, as they aren't available locally.
Here is a video about the Epcot Infinity props. You can check it out!
The captain's shield is quite lightweight, but at this price... No... No...
Oh my... USD$1950 for six gems! Only the wealthy can afford these! Honestly, if I were wealthy, I’d get better, more raw-looking gems than these.
But I found this Infinity briefcase that Captain America carried. It is something I wanted: a container with spare stones. Buy!
Bleeding...
I will nap in the room in my trunk, as my body retains heat from the sun, while L was occupied elsewhere.
I woke up feeling better, ready to return for more suntan. It seemed like my favourite seat was taken...
I guessed I would wait here and hope my disgusting body would chase them away.
Lol, it worked. The people started to leave my favourite space.
Yippee! My spot!
Can tan to my content!
Hmm, L wanted to come to the adult zone's infinity pool and try swimming in it.
While waiting for L to arrive, I observed that the lady was composed and respectful; she did not express awkwardly and any judgment towards disgusting me, and I also admired her choice of attire.
Weird, it had been more than 30 mins, and I still didn't see L show up.
I truly appreciated the serene atmosphere accompanied by the jazz music in the background.
My wild imagination started to load... I didn't notice, but while I napped, I had some 'E-ection'. Fortunately, no one bothered to check on the small dude.
I better woke up and acted as normal; I doubt the ladies noticed anything as they had their faces covered to avoid seeing a disgusting thing.
Anyway, it had been a while... Don't know where L is, as he didn't reply to messages.
Anyway, time to leave for the next programme.
It seemed like I was early for the show.
I arrived well in advance to ensure I could obtain a favourable seat.
One of the most anticipated live shows that L and I were looking forward to was 'Avengers Assemble.' I meant to dress up for the event and wore my gauntlet, but now I kinda regret it. Should've at least brought it for the show... Sigh...
Oooo, my first proper Iron Man cosplay. What a nice costume!
More and more characters are showing up! The westerners look so good, cosplaying as superheroes, especially Thor. How I wish I could look as good and tall as them...
Oooo, Red Skull! I have never seen anyone cosplaying as him.
Wow! Spider-Man showed up too and totally surprised everyone!
Wanda was awesome too! Her outfit was amazing!
Finale pose!
The show wrapped up, and everyone ran over to get pics with the superheroes.
When we returned, our room attendant made me a cute towel rabbit. I thanked her so much for these surprises.
Last night, I intended to use the jacuzzi, but it was occupied by a couple. I undressed and waited patiently until it became available.
But... They had been using the jacuzzi for more than an hour... They had been hugging and sweet-talking, enjoying their honeymoon... They don't care whether got other people waiting to use the jacuzzi... I could have just squeezed into the jacuzzi shamelessly, but I chose to give them space and time, but...
And the last movie that was playing was Finding Nemo 2...
Can you believe it? They were still using the jacuzzi even though the movie had started 45 minutes ago. (you can see their heads in the jacuzzi)
To make things worse, a family with two boys came over and took over the loving and touchy couple's jacuzzi. The couple kept using the jacuzzi until the dad stepped in, so I couldn't get a turn at all.
In the end... I was in my trunk for the whole movie and managed to use a different jacuzzi (also occupied by a family throughout the whole movie too) for a good ten minutes, until the staff told us they had to close it... Sigh... At least, I got to use it...
Last night, I took photographs of the iconic Disney carpet designs. They appeared quite impressive.
For the untoned and ugly me, I had a good tan, which I am impressed with.
The next morning, we were told that we could embark from the cruise earlier, and I would return home ASAP to prepare my blog writing and other stuff. Thank you, Disney Adventure Cruise, for this experience.
Common question asked: Do you think going on a Disney cruise is worth it?
In my opinion, the Disney Adventure Cruise is an excellently themed park on a ship designed for younger audiences, offering a wide range of engaging activities continuously. Imagine this as a kid: our playtime is limited by timetables and parents. Now, you are on a ship where there's nothing but playtime—a whole new world, a big and safe space where you can get lost (as long as you don't jump off the ship), and also meet your favourite Disney characters who usually only appear on TV or certain local shows. Basically, it's a whole trip of playtime where your parents don't restrict you and join you for fun. Isn't that magical?
On the flip side, I feel the tiredness of the parents as their fully charged kids play nonstop; they have to give their full attention to what the kids are doing, what they want to buy, where they go, and their meltdowns—something I feel grateful for...
The cruise provides a well-rounded selection of activities and entertainment for adults, including a spa, gym, private bar, workout facilities, pool, karaoke, and various dining options. Indeed, the facilities and services are not designed for adults, so I did not spend much time there. The adult space is perfect for me. However, I can imagine that people who don't like sunbathing can go to eat and rest, and then enjoy massages and surfing nonstop, but they need to bring enough money to cover the additional cost. Parents should exercise caution when their children visit Disney merchandise stores or makeup studios, as there is potential for significant spending.
The ship's crew is courteous and attentive, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience akin to being at home. Speaking of home, it is a great experience to have someone who takes care of the room's tidiness and cleanliness. I took this opportunity to reflect on how I think of and treat the staff who serve us selflessly. I must say I have been courteous and grateful towards them, treating them as friends.
In terms of pricing, the Disney Adventure Cruise is positioned at the higher end. This is understandable, as even land-based theme park tickets are known to be expensive, and the same principle applies here. I would like to note that the cost for a shared stateroom with four beds for two adults seems reasonable. I also learned that my friend's stateroom, which has a king-size bed and a small living room space beside it, will cost more. Although I had hoped for a room with a balcony, I understand that it is a luxury dependent on my budget, and I cannot compare my situation with that of wealthier individuals.
According to recent news, the Disney Adventure Cruise is scheduled to operate in Singapore for a period of five years, at least until early 2031. If you or your child enjoys Disney, and your budget and schedule permit, consider taking the themed cruise to experience its unique offerings. Even if you are not a Disney enthusiast like me, it is still worthwhile to visit and experience it before it relocates to other countries. Using a real-life example - visiting a theme park in another country required air travel; however, with a Disney-themed ship now docked in Singapore, such experiences are more accessible.
Jeff
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Take note that this blogspot doesn't have comment-notification alert, so if you have a question, please leave me your email so I can reply back.
if not, don't be shy to drop me your comment/feedback on my posts or follow my blog