We’ve hit every Disney park in the world, except Shanghai, but when it came to the Disney Wonder cruise, we had no clue what to expect. We jumped on the Hawaii-to-Sydney repositioning cruise and tried to research ahead of time… but let’s just say the info out there was chaotic at best.

So here’s my chance to fix that. I’m breaking down what’s actually included, what freebies you’ll want to take advantage of, and the tips we wish we had before boarding. Honestly, there’s a lot of fluff online and people love to gatekeep just to rank higher on Google (don’t get me started). So I’m laying it all out, with no secrets, no fluff.

This post is part of a full series on Disney Cruise tips and tricks, because there’s just too much good info to squeeze into one post. Let’s start with the freebies, because who doesn’t love some Disney magic that doesn’t cost extra?

What’s Actually Included on a Disney Cruise?

Here’s the thing, when you book a Disney cruise, it’s not always super clear what you’re actually paying for unless you have a solid travel agent or a seasoned cruiser friend in your corner. 

If it’s your first time sailing with Disney Cruise Line, this is your chance to get a clear picture of what’s really included… because we definitely learned some things the hard way.

So before we dive into all the freebies and Disney cruise tips and tricks we picked up, let’s start with what’s covered in your base fare:

Unlimited Soft Serve Ice Cream

Yes, you can have all the soft serve your heart desires, as long as the machines are open. There were two machines on the Disney Wonder during our sailing: one had chocolate + vanilla (with swirl), and the other rotated through fun flavors like strawberry, blueberry, and vanilla. 

They usually opened mid-morning and stayed on into the evening.

Pro tip: check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for daily open times.

Rotational Dining for Dinner

Disney cruise dining is on a rotation system, you switch dining rooms each night, but your servers follow you. You’ll also have access to sit-down meals for breakfast and lunch in dedicated restaurants. On our cruise:

• Breakfast was served at Triton’s
• Lunch was available at Tiana’s Place

Broadway-Style Shows

There are usually two showings every night, one for early dining, one for late, so don’t stress about missing anything. These shows were one of the highlights of our nights onboard!

Deck Parties

Our sailing had two major parties:

• Sail Away party 
• Pirate Night (complete with fireworks!)
• Equator Crossing Ceremony (they did this twice, once in the day and again at 10PM when we officially crossed with fireworks)

Kids & Teens Clubs

These were a game changer. Here’s what was available by age:

• It’s a Small World Nursery (babies & toddlers)
• Oceaneer Club & Lab (ages 3–10)
• Edge (ages 11-14)
• Vibe (ages 14-17)
• 18–20 Society (young adults who are too old for teen clubs but too young for the 21+ scene)

Character Meet & Greets

There were so many character appearances we honestly couldn’t keep up, especially on a two-week sailing like ours. Expect frequent meet & greets all over the ship, all day long. Characters also made surprise appearances in the kids’ clubs and even in the concierge lounge, which made the experience feel even more personal and magical.

Pools + Splash Zones

There’s something for every age:

• Adults-only pool
• Main family pool
• Hot tubs (low-key best during early dinners when the ship is quieter)
• Water slide + AquaLab
• Dory’s Reef splash zone for littles

Fireworks at Sea

On select sailings, Disney does themed fireworks shows. We had fireworks both on:

• Pirate Night
• Equator Crossing Night

Some of these were a given for us since we’d cruised before (shoutout to our Margaritaville at Sea Heroes Sail Free trip, read that experience here), but Disney takes it to another level. These included perks are a big part of the Disney cruise magic, and honestly, we wish our two-week voyage on the Wonder lasted even longer.

Free Stuff on a Disney Cruise You Don’t Want to Miss

Free 5-Minute Massages at the Spa

This is where the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app becomes your best friend. A few days into our sailing, after carrying my camera around nonstop, I had a knot in my right shoulder that even my trusty massage ball couldn’t touch. Sometimes, you just need a professional, and luckily, Disney’s got you covered.

If you didn’t pre-book a massage or plan ahead, no worries. Spa staff often set up massage chairs near the adult pool area and offer free 5-minute massages on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s a small moment of bliss that most guests walk right past, but it’s totally worth it.

The masseuse I had was incredibly knowledgeable, explaining why certain muscles tighten and how to break up tension. And while these are technically free, they’ll also offer discounted massage deals during this time.

Pro tip: Check the app or onboard TV daily, these mini massage sessions happen frequently, sometimes almost every day! The discounts tend to get better later in the cruise. For example, early on, we were offered $50 off, but closer to the end (around Day 10), they bumped that up to $100 off full-length massages.

This is perfect if you want a little pampering without committing to the full spa price. And if you catch the embarkation day spa tour, they sometimes offer bonus samples and added perks too!

Unlimited Soda at the Beverage Station

This one’s a game changer, especially if you’ve got kids (or adults 😅) who love their daily soda fix.

Disney includes unlimited soda, water, iced tea, lemonade, and coffee at the self-serve beverage station, no drink package required. This is one of those things that feels like a paid upgrade, but it’s totally free, and it adds up fast if you’re cruising with a whole family.

Pro Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle, thermos, or tumbler so you’re not stuck running back and forth with those tiny paper cups. We filled ours up every morning and night, and yes, even brought drinks into the Buena Vista Theater to watch movies without paying for extra drinks at concessions. Grab popcorn if you want, but drinks? Totally covered.

On the Disney Wonder, the beverage station is on Deck 10, port side (left) and aft (back of the ship), just before you enter Cabanas restaurant. You’ll find multiple soda flavors on tap, including Coke products, along with water and tea options.

Another huge money-saver for families and a perk you’ll definitely want to take advantage of daily.

Muffins, Pastries & Goodies at Cove Café

Here’s a sweet little tip we didn’t learn until halfway through the cruise, the pastries at Cove Café are totally free, even if you don’t buy a drink. Yup, you can walk in, grab a muffin or croissant from the glass case, and just enjoy the chill café vibes.

Now if you do want to splurge on a specialty drink, the cold brew is amazing, brewed fresh using a large ice drip coffee maker that looks like it belongs in a science lab. They also make fantastic lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso drinks if you’re craving something more than basic coffee from the drink station.

Pro tip for coffee lovers: If you’re ordering room service in the morning, ask for a couple of Mickey ice cream bars. Then grab a hot coffee from the beverage station (or have one delivered) and make your own little DIY affogato or iced mocha moment in your stateroom. Low-key luxury, Disney style. 

Plus, Cove Café has comfy chairs, quiet ambiance, and a great place to work or relax, especially in the early morning when the ship is still waking up. So whether you’re craving a peaceful moment or a sugar rush with zero guilt, Cove Café is that underrated gem onboard.

Sauna + Gym Access for Free

Let’s be real, who’s actually trying to hit the gym on vacation? 😅 But after two weeks at sea and three big meals a day (plus unlimited ice cream), I was feeling it. Fast.

The gym on board is completely free to use, but here’s the part that surprised me: the sauna is also free. No booking needed, no extra fee.

And the locker room? Super nice. You’ll find lockers, clean showers, cold water, and even a little lounging area to cool down. If you need a break from the cruise chaos or just want to sneak in some “me time,” this is the spot.

Free Mickey Bars: Room Service Only

The iconic Mickey bars are a must, and yes, they’re totally free when you order them through room service. You can grab one any time of day or night, which makes them the perfect treat after a long excursion or a late-night movie. You can also request one during dinner; just politely ask your server.

That said, don’t sleep on the regular dessert menu. We had some amazing sundaes and treats that were honestly just as magical, so it’s worth mixing it up. And if you want to keep the Mickey bar vibes going before or after your cruise, you can even pick them up at Target.

Important tip if you’re sailing out of Australia: Mickey bars might not be available at all. Due to import restrictions, once the supply from previous sailings runs out, they can’t restock. So if you see them early on, get ’em while you can!

Pixie-Dusted at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

If there’s one tip you don’t want to skip, it’s this one. We waited until the end of the cruise to try it and got turned away. Don’t be like us! Go early in the sailing and ask about pixie dusting.

You’ll need to pop in and ask if they’re offering free glitter sprinkles, and while it’s not guaranteed, if you catch the Fairy Godmothers-in-Training at the right time and ask politely, they’ll often say yes.

This is such a fun and magical budget-friendly alternative to the full makeover experience, which can range from $119.99 to over $450. If you’re cruising with kids and want a little sparkle without spending a ton, this is your chance.

Flavored Straws at the Adult Pool Bar

We’ve seen flavored straws before, but we weren’t expecting to find them on a Disney cruise, surprise, they’re onboard and they’re free!

You can ask for them at the adult pool bar, and we ended up with a handful of different flavors. They’re edible, eco-friendlier than plastic, and honestly just make your drink feel a little more fun and extra. It’s a small touch, but a cute (and tasty) freebie you don’t want to miss.

Free Charms and a Bracelet from Diamonds International

What better way to enjoy your cruise, and score a cute memento, than with a free charm bracelet?

If you check the Navigator app, you’ll likely see a Diamonds International event listed where they give away free bracelets and charms. Heads up: some of the giveaway times do overlap with dinner seatings, which is kind of a bummer, but honestly… yolo.

These events are more than just freebies, sometimes they’ll run mini games like “guess the number of carats” or “name that watch,” and the winners walk away with extra prizes or gift cards. It’s worth sticking around a few minutes after the charm handout in case something fun pops off.

Pro tip: Read reviews before buying anything from Diamonds International. The giveaway is great, but if you’re thinking of purchasing jewelry, it’s good to be informed.

Free Tampons + Pads in Public Restrooms

One thing the girls immediately noticed and major shoutout to Disney for this, is that the women’s restrooms on board are stocked with free tampons and pads.

This might seem small, but if you’ve ever needed one and didn’t have anything on you, you know how clutch this is. You don’t have to hike all the way back to your stateroom or pay resort prices at the shop just to get what you need. It’s one of those thoughtful little touches that honestly made the girls feel seen.

Another reason we love Disney cruises.

Extra Desserts, Breads, and Appetizers

Okay, seasoned cruisers might already know this, but for us newbies, we felt so awkward ordering more than one appetizer or dessert. It just felt wrong… like cruise guilt?

But after chatting with our super sweet server, we learned that they prep a ton of every course: appetizers, salads, soups, mains, desserts. And if no one orders them? Yep, they get tossed.

So if there’s more than one thing you want to try, go for it. Order two appetizers. Try the extra dessert. Get that second sundae. Because honestly? You’re not being wasteful. You’re actually saving it from the trash.

And let’s be real, I always have time for double the ice cream.

Disney Cruise Tips for First Timers to Make the Most of Your Freebies

Most of these free perks are easy to miss if you’re not looking for them. That’s why we always recommend taking a walk around the ship on embarkation day. You’ll spot a ton of hidden gems early, like spa tours, complimentary pastries at Cove Café, and where the free drink stations are.

Also? Talk to your dining team. They love surprising guests with little extras, think fruit plates, special desserts, even off-menu goodies if you’re lucky. Disney leans all the way into the magic when you take the time to connect with the crew.

Disney Cruise Tips & Tricks That Save You Money

After stumbling onto some of these “hidden” free perks, we felt like we were finally winning at this whole cruise thing. It honestly made the experience feel even more magical and like we were getting way more value for what we paid. 

Some tips, like the flavored straws, we would’ve never known about if it weren’t for TikTok. And the sauna? We assumed it was part of the paid spa amenities since it’s tucked inside Senses Spa, but after Amanda’s massage, we realized it was totally included.

If you’re reading this while planning your own trip, I hope this list reaches you in time to help you level up your Disney cruise a little earlier than we did. Knowing what’s included, and what’s secretly free, can make all the difference in creating a smoother, more budget-friendly vacation full of surprises.

Planning a Disney Cruise Line Vacation?

If you’re deep in Disney Cruise planning mode (or just starting to dream), we’ve put together a full library of Disney Cruise Line guides to help you plan smarter, save money, and know what to expect before you sail.

Here are a few helpful reads to check out next 👇

Disney Cruise Planning Guides

These are best if you’re still deciding what to book or how to budget and plan.

• Disney Cruise Military Discount: Rates, Deals & Tips
• Disney Repositioning Cruise: The Secret Way to Cruise Longer for Less
• Disney Cruise vs Disney World: Which Is Better for Your Family?
• Disney Wonder Cruise: The Classic Ship Everyone Forgets
• Disney Cruise Concierge: The Ins and Outs Explained
• An Honest Disney Cruise Review for Teens by a Teen
• How to get Free Wifi on Disney Cruise Line Tips

Disney Cruise Tips for First-Time Cruisers

These are helpful once you’ve booked and are getting ready to sail.

• Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: Advice for First Time Cruisers
• Disney Cruise Tips and Tricks: Free Stuff You Don’t Want to Miss
• Disney Cruise Packing List: Must Haves You Can’t Skip
• Disney Cruise Food Worth the Hype: What You Should Really Try
• Disney Cruise Door Decorations: Ideas, Rules & Free Printables

If this is your first Disney cruise, start with the first time Cruisers section. If you’re still deciding whether Disney cruising is worth it, the Planning Guides will help you narrow things down fast.