Disney Treasure Anniversary Trip Review

Which Kids Clubs Should You Try on Disney Treasure with Young Children?

The kids clubs on Disney Treasure were honestly one of the biggest highlights for my family, especially for my five-year-old.

We had read a bit about them but did not realize just how much our kids would love the Marvel Super Hero Academy and the Disney Oceaneer Club.

Both of our boys were invited into the Oceaneer Club since they are three and five, and the check-in process was super easy with MagicBands (they call them Oceaneer Bands on Disney Cruise Line).

Our three-year-old tried a little bit of everything but liked shadowing his big brother, while our five-year-old instantly gravitated toward the Marvel Academy.

He is normally shy and prefers to stay close to us, so it was a shock when he started begging to be dropped off so he could save the world with Captain Marvel and Iron Man.

The activities are really immersive with Marvel-themed science experiments, superhero training sessions, and character visits that made him feel like a real Avenger.

He even started convincing us to get a couples massage or hit the bars for drinks just so he could keep going back.

The cast members in the clubs were amazing and made both boys feel totally comfortable, even when my three-year-old got a bit overwhelmed with all the excitement.

Parents can check on kids with a secret password, and there is a live camera feed at check-in so you can peek into the club before drop-off if you are feeling anxious (I definitely did this the first time).

Themed activities run all day, and you can drop in and out as much as you want.

For families with kids ages three to twelve, these clubs are included in the cruise price and you do not have to reserve ahead, which takes a lot of stress off planning.

If you have babies or toddlers under three, there is also a nursery called “It's a Small World” (for a fee, must be prebooked in the app), but since both our kids were over three, we did not use that service.

Tip from experience: Let older family members drop by during open house hours, since only kids and cast can be inside the clubs at most times—the open house is a rare chance for the whole family to check things out together and take fun photos.

How Was the Food and Dining Experience on Disney Treasure?

We loved the rotational dining so much that we booked the same rotation for our next cruise already.

The main restaurants were themed, and each night our family had the same awesome serving team who got to know our drink orders and my sons' favorite desserts.

Not a single bad meal all week—every dinner was better than the last, whether it was elaborate steak and seafood or a simple chicken tender for my picky eater.

My wife is a physician assistant and pretty picky with food safety and allergies, and she was so impressed by how the staff handled special requests (they even double-checked everything right at the table with her allergy notes).

The kids menus were better than most restaurants we visit at home—they had classics like burgers, mac and cheese, and grilled chicken, plus fruit, veggies, and even Mickey-shaped pasta.

Room service is included (except for a few specialty items), so we had breakfast on our balcony a couple of days, and the boys thought it was such a treat to eat in pajamas with the ocean gliding by outside.

We also stopped at Hei Hei Cafe almost every day for espresso martinis and pistachio lattes.

Kevin at Hei Hei became a cruise legend for us—he remembered our orders, suggested fun new drinks, and always had a smile (tip: extra cash for your favorite crew goes a long way!)

If you want a date night, there are also adult-only restaurants (extra charge), but with the fun our kids were having in the clubs, we easily found time to relax at bars or coffee shops instead.

What Are the Pools and Water Features Like for Young Families?

The pools and splash pads on Disney Treasure earned the top spot on my boys' list of favorite things (next to the kids clubs).

There are a bunch of different family pools spread out around the top deck, and we never struggled to find a spot even though the ship had thousands of passengers.

The splash zones and mini slides were perfect for my three-year-old, while the bigger slides like the AquaMouse were a thrill for my five-year-old and me.

The AquaMouse is a combination of roller coaster and water slide with animated screens and fun surprises—definitely worth multiple rides if your kids are tall enough.

There is also an adults-only pool area with jacuzzis, quiet sun decks, and bar service, which my wife and I enjoyed while the kids were off saving the world in the Marvel Academy.

If you need swimming diapers, pack more than you think you'll need (they are expensive in the gift shop), and don't forget sunscreen that is water resistant for long pool days.

What Makes the Disney Private Islands Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay Special?

Since our itinerary changed, we got to visit both Disney private islands—Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Castaway Cay felt like a super clean, safe beach town made just for families, with chairs, umbrellas, and towels all set up for free.

We snagged a spot near the family beach so the boys could run back and forth to the water and splash pad.

There are waterslides for both big and little kids, plus splash zones, playgrounds, and a supervised kids club right on the island if you want a break.

Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is Disney's newest island, and it felt a little less crowded with gorgeous scenery and pristine beaches.

Both islands had free food (BBQ picnic style) and unlimited ice cream which made my kids' day.

Since everything shuts down when you have to be back on the ship, I brought a big sand-resistant beach bag and plenty of snacks and drinks just in case (pro tip: pack a few water bottles and sand toys for the kids).

What Sort of Entertainment Can Families Expect on Board?

Disney Treasure delivered nonstop entertainment, both for adults and kids.

The shows were Broadway style, with favorites like Beauty and the Beast and an all-new adventure with Moana that kept both boys totally engaged.

We caught at least one live performance every night, and even when my three-year-old got too tired, we could still watch fireworks from our port window (which was honestly pretty magical and saved us from cranky meltdown territory).

The character meet and greets were scheduled throughout the day on the Navigator app, so we never had to stand in line for long, even for popular characters like Peter Pan and Captain America.

If your child is shy about meeting characters, the cast members and characters themselves are super patient and never rush the interaction.

Pirate Night was a huge deal, and seeing all the matching costumes made me wish we had planned better to join in the fun (lesson learned: themed outfits are a must for next time).

Deck parties had music, dancing, and confetti—and the kids could run around without anyone judging noise or sugar highs since everyone on board is in the same parenting boat.

The ship also offers first-run Disney movies in the theater and on giant screens by the pool, which meant we could get in quality family time without stressing over missed naps.

For families like ours who also enjoy cozy game nights at home, check out family board game ideas here to keep the magic going even after the cruise.

How Comfortable and Fun Are the Staterooms for Families?

We stayed in a standard oceanview stateroom on deck 2, and it ended up being just right for our family of four.

There was plenty of space for us, especially with the split bathroom design so someone could shower while another got ready for dinner.

The beds were surprisingly comfortable, and both boys loved the bunk bed that pulled down from the ceiling—the room attendant set it up every night while we were at dinner.

Magnetic doors made it easy and fun to decorate our room with themed magnets, which became a nightly ritual for the boys to rearrange and show off their favorites to neighbors passing by.

We received random little gifts from other families who noticed our door (Disney people are next-level friendly), and it felt like our own mini trick-or-treat around the ship.

I had never heard of fish extenders before this trip—a system where families hang pouches on their door for little gifts and surprises from other cruisers—but we will definitely join in next time after seeing how much fun the kids had exchanging door treats with new friends.

I recommend looking at connecting staterooms if you are traveling with extended family as it gives you flexibility but keeps everyone close by.

Tip: Bring a small night light for the room since it gets very dark when the lights are out, and small magnetic hooks for hanging wet swimsuits or hats.

If you are sensitive to noise, the lower decks are actually very quiet compared to what I expected, so do not worry about hearing hallway traffic or engine vibrations.

What Should Families Pack to Get the Most Out of a Disney Cruise?

We thought we packed well but realized there are definitely some must-haves for families cruising Disney Treasure.

A dry bag for beach days, swim goggles, extra sunscreen, and at least two swimsuits per family member saved us a ton of stress.

Matching t-shirts or Disney outfits for dinners and themed nights like Pirate Night blend right in and also make for great family pictures—wish we brought options on this trip.

Magnetic hooks and door decorations help make your stateroom feel personalized (and easier to spot in a sea of similar doors).

If you are traveling with little kids, a stroller is helpful for getting around the bigger ports of call, but also know that the walkways on the ship are stroller friendly.

Reusable water bottles save you from buying drinks, and a soft-sided cooler bag is handy for keeping snacks cool at the pool or on the islands.

We saw lots of families with collapsible hampers and pop-up laundry baskets—the laundry facilities onboard are great and take credit cards.

Remember to download the Disney Navigator app in advance—it has all the daily schedules, character appearance times, and restaurant info so you can plan on the go and never feel lost.

If you want extra game ideas for downtime in your room, check out these educational games to play with kids for some packable options you can easily throw in your bag.

Are There Adult-Only Spaces and Activities Worth Making Time For?

Even with young kids, we still managed to sneak in some adult time thanks to the stellar kids clubs and friendly staff on Disney Treasure.

The Quiet Cove adults-only area was our go-to spot for unwinding—great pool, comfy loungers, and peace and quiet when the boys needed a break from the action.

The spa offered treatments and massages (one day we let our oldest win and booked a couple of treatments so he could go back to the Marvel Academy—best of both worlds).

If you enjoy specialty coffee or cocktails, do not miss Hei Hei Cafe, especially if you meet Kevin at the bar.

There are also multiple adult lounges and themed bars throughout the ship, from the elegant Skipper Society to the adventure-filled Periscope Pub.

We skipped the fancy adult-only restaurants this time, but several friends on board raved about Palo and Enchanté if you want a truly special dinner out.

Disney makes it incredibly easy for parents to have a little alone time knowing the boys are safe and happy (or, in our case, begging to stay longer in the kids club).

Pro tip: Plan your adult escapes during times when the clubs have big activities scheduled so the kids are engaged while you relax, and remember to ask for unique bar menus since some drinks are not listed and the bartenders love showing off their best recipes.

What Are Some Common Surprises and First-Timer Lessons Learned?

Going in as first-timers, we underestimated how much people go all-in on dressing up for themed dining and nights like Pirate Night.

Matching costumes and restaurant-coordinated outfits are so common that you feel like you missed out if you show up in plain t-shirts—plan ahead and lean into the Disney spirit, it is more fun than you think.

Fish extenders completely passed us by before the trip, but now I know to join the Facebook groups or message boards before sailing to sign up for an exchange group (our kids loved the impromptu door gifts but would have enjoyed it even more as participants in a gifting group).

The ship is huge but shockingly never feels crowded—there is always somewhere quiet to unwind if your kids (or you) need downtime.

Pack extra small bills for tipping your favorite crew members or giving a thank you to housekeeping staff who go above and beyond—while gratuities are automatic, a little extra really makes their day.

If you fill out the end-of-cruise survey, always select the “Excellent” option on every item—”Very Good” is surprisingly seen as a negative rating by Disney and can actually hurt the fantastic crew who make magic happen for your family.

Motionsickness was almost not an issue, but both our boys thought it was hilarious to close their eyes and pretend they were still moving for days after docking.

For anyone booking for the first time, look for open house times at the kids clubs and Hero Zone breaks early in your sailing when the waits for the obstacle course are shortest.

What Is Pirate Night Like and How Can You Make the Most of Theme Nights?

Pirate Night is legendary on Disney Treasure and much more than just a themed dinner.

Everyone—kids, parents, even grandparents—puts on pirate gear, whether full costumes or just some fun hats and eye patches (next time we are ordering outfits before sailing so we can join the crowd).

The evening includes a themed dinner menu, special shows, and a deck party with music, dancing, and of course fireworks at sea (fun fact: Disney uses fish food in their fireworks so it is safe for sea life—one of those thoughtful touches that blew my mind).

We viewed the fireworks from our port window since the kids needed downtime—it was still magical and felt cozy cuddling in our pajamas while the sky lit up outside the window.

Formal night and other restaurant theme nights are also more of an event than just a dinner, so bringing a variety of dressy and themed outfits pays off (especially for photo ops—think princess dresses, Marvel t-shirts, or Star Wars gear).

Matching shirts or color-coordinated outfits make family photos stand out, and you will not feel out of place at all.

Do not stress if you miss the “perfect” photo moment though—there are plenty of chances to get professional pictures taken by Disney photographers all over the ship any night you are dressed up.

If you love group activities, Pirate Night is also a great chance for adults and older kids to try themed games or trivia together—these are listed in the Navigator app and are easy to fit in around dinner and fireworks.

Looking for game ideas for a big family or group at home? Here are some top party games for large groups that could bring some cruise night fun to your next gathering.

What Practical Tips Should Families Know for a Smoother Cruise?

Check-in and boarding went quickly for us by using the early arrival time and having everything lined up in the Navigator app beforehand.

Pool towels and life jackets are provided free on the ship and at both private islands, saving room in our suitcases.

Sign up for character meet and greets as soon as you can on the app—they fill up quickly, especially for favorites like Moana or Mickey.

Invest in a lanyard with card holders for everyone—room keys double as ID and access passes for kids clubs and are easy to misplace otherwise.

We brought our own refillable water bottles and filled them at the beverage stations (Disney does not mind and it saves money compared to buying bottled water at each stop).

Have a folder or pouch for keeping track of daily schedules, receipts, and memory keepsakes—there is a lot happening each day and you will want to remember those magical moments.

Stagger your debarkation time at the end of the cruise so you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast (our boys loved eating waffles while watching the ship pull into port one last time).

Download movies or favorite shows on devices before boarding, since Wi-Fi can be spotty and expensive for streaming (the cruise offers plenty of entertainment, but it is good for downtime in the room).

For something educational and fun to keep young ones busy during trips, check out some educational games for students to pack for travel or port days.

The Experience That Made Us Want to Book Again (and Again)

We went into our first Disney Treasure sailing hoping for quality family time and a little dose of Disney magic, and we ended the trip already researching our next cruise.

The crew, the food, the perfectly planned activities, and the way Disney truly gets what families need—the whole package blew us away.

Why Disney Treasure Is the Ultimate Family Cruise (Even for First-Timers)

Before our sailing, my wife and I had high hopes but wondered if the Disney Treasure would live up to the hype for a family with young kids who weren’t total Disney fanatics yet.

By the end, not only were our sons asking when we could go back, but my wife and I found ourselves chatting about which themed restaurants and new adventures we’d try next time.

It genuinely surprised us how Disney balanced luxury and fun for kids without sacrificing adult experiences.

There was always something for every age and mood, from relaxing with a pistachio latte at Hei Hei Cafe to cheering at the Marvel Super Hero Academy or getting soaked at the splash pads.

Unlike some vacations where adults are just chaperoning, we felt like true guests, pampered along with our kids.

It meant so much to see our reserved five year old find his confidence in the Marvel club, or watch both boys light up at spontaneous gifts and kind gestures from other families—we instantly joined the fan club for fish extenders and creative door decorations.

Those little things—like the crew remembering our preferences, the surprising quiet of our stateroom, and the magic of watching fireworks cuddle up in bed—made us feel like Disney somehow custom-designed the cruise just for our family.

Is There Anything to Improve or Watch Out for with Disney Treasure?

Even with all the highlights, there are a few realities to know about before you book.

Costs can add up fast—specialty drinks, excursion fees, and souvenirs go beyond the included basics, so planning a budget (plus a little extra for crew tips and merch) is smart.

Last-minute schedule changes like our Jamaica port cancellation are always possible, but Disney does a great job making backup plans feel like a bonus, not a letdown—two private islands felt like winning extra vacation days.

If you or your kids have particular characters or shows you want to see, set alerts in your app as soon as possible.

Also, discovering things like fish extenders and themed outfits after already onboard is a bit of a bummer, but it leaves room to plan something even more magical for next time.

What I Liked Most

• Keepsake memories from themed dining, magical fireworks, and the kindness of the crew and other guests.
• Kids clubs that both encourage independence and make it fun, safe, and easy for hesitant kids (my five-year-old is living proof).
• Zero stress about crowds, long lines, or feeling like outsiders, thanks to thoughtful design and Disney’s family-first approach.
• Delicious, allergy-safe food with creative options for both adults and kids.
• Having so many little moments that genuinely surprised and delighted all of us.

Cons to Know

• Things like fish extenders and matching outfits are more fun when planned ahead, so a little research before the cruise is worth it.
• Themed merchandise, drink upgrades, and extra excursions add up (but are avoidable with planning).
• Popular character meet and greets and Hero Zone activities can fill up if not reserved early in the app.
• Wi-Fi is pricey and not super-fast, so download your must-haves before boarding.
• Pirate costumes and Disney gear can sell out on board, so shopping beforehand is smart if you want a specific look.

Final Thoughts on Our Disney Treasure Sailing as a Family

This adventure checked every box for a family trip—quality time, new experiences, happy (sometimes exhausted) kids, and way less stress than any land-based theme park trips we’ve taken.

Whether your family is made up of seasoned Disney fans or new to cruising, I truly believe you’ll find something special on board.

If you love planning fun nights at home, you might also enjoy ideas like relaxing games for evenings together that capture a bit of that cruise night magic long after you disembark.

Disney Treasure set a new bar for what family vacations can be, and for us, the trip was well worth it—so much so, we’re counting down the days until we can return with even more tricks (and matching t-shirts) up our sleeves.

If you’re on the fence about booking, my best advice is go for it—and start planning those magnets, door gifts, and Pirate Night gear now for even more family fun at sea.