If the idea of swapping holiday traffic for an ocean breeze sounds appealing, Disney Cruise Line's Very Merrytime Cruises are back for November and December 2026, departing from Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale in Florida, as well as Galveston, Texas, and San Diego, California. The sailings blend classic Disney Christmas touches with the novelty of being at sea — you could be watching snow fall on the atrium tree one evening and stepping onto a tropical island the next morning.
The ships themselves get a serious seasonal makeover. Each vessel is dressed with a 24-foot Christmas tree, a giant gingerbread house, and holiday decorations throughout. Mickey, Minnie, and friends appear in their holiday outfits, Santa comes aboard, and special entertainment includes Mickey & Minnie's Holiday Party and the Merrytime Tree Lighting — complete with hot cocoa and cookies. Movie screenings lean into the season as well, with titles like The Santa Claus, Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas, and The Muppet Christmas Carol showing both in onboard theaters and on the FunnelVision screen on the top deck.
Shoppers will find exclusive seasonal Disney Cruise Line merchandise aboard during holiday sailings. For 2026, Disney is also offering a Happy Holiday Decor! stateroom package priced at $139, which includes a holiday banner, stocking, illuminated wreath, Mickey and Minnie ship-shaped pillows, a Daisy Duck fairy plush, and a character blanket. Availability is limited, so pre-ordering shortly after booking is recommended.
On the savings side, Disney currently has discounts available on select 2026 sailings, including some holiday departures. Florida residents may be eligible for up to 30% off on qualifying dates, making it worth comparing departure options before locking in a booking.
Planning Your Trip
Undercover Tourist is an authorized seller of Walt Disney World tickets, often at a discount off gate price.
Full details on itineraries and the stateroom holiday packages can be found at DCL Fan.
