Disney Cruise Line’s newest ships, Disney Treasure and Disney Wish, are two of the most magical ships on the seas.
But what sets them apart? From themes to dining experiences, these sister ships each have their own unique charm.
I’ve been lucky enough to sail on both ships. Here’s a list of the top differences I noticed between the two…
1. Grand Halls: Aladdin vs. Cinderella
The atrium is the heart of any Disney ship and as you step on board the first thing you’ll notice is how different these Grand Halls are.
Disney Treasure: Aladdin-themed
Inspired by the movie Aladdin, the Grand Hall of the Disney Treasure features rich gold tones and adventurous Middle Eastern vibes.
A statue of Aladdin, Jasmine, and the Magic Carpet is the centrepiece.
Disney Wish: Cinderalla-themed
Disney Wish’s Grand Hall is straight out of a fairytale, themed around Cinderella. It shimmers with soft blues and golds, and a bronze statue of Cinderella adds an elegant touch.
Which is better?
Both Grand Halls are truly breathtaking. But for me, the Cinderalla-themed atrium on the Wish has the edge. Just because you can pose with the statue. As the statue on the Treasure is a flying carpet, it’s a bit high up, espeically for kids.
2. Dining Experiences: Coco vs. Frozen
Both the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure cruise ships feature three main dining rooms as part of Disney Cruise Line’s rotational dining experience, allowing guests to enjoy a different themed restaurant each night.
Both ships have the high-tech ‘Worlds of Marvel’ restaurant and the sophisticated 1920s-themed ‘1923’ restauarnt.
The third restuarnant, however is different. Although both provide immersive dining experiences.
Disney Treasure: Plaza de Coco
A unique addition to the Disney Treasure, this restaurant offers an immersive dining experience inspired by Disney-Pixar’s Coco.
It featuries live entertainment and Mexican cuisine that will transport you straight to the Land of the Dead.
Disney Wish: Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure
This immersive dining experience brings the kingdom of Arendelle to life. Here, you can enjoy live entertainment with characters from Disney’s Frozen and a menu inspired by Nordic cuisine.
Which is better?
Again, this is just down to personal preference, but I loved the Mexican cuisine and would always choose that over Nordic food. I loved the shows at both restaurants though.
3. Themed Lounges: Haunted Mansion & Jungle Cruise Vs Star Wars & The Princess and The Frog
When it’s time to unwind, the lounges take you into the world of Disney classics.
Disney Treasure: Haunted Mansion Parlor
The Haunted Mansion Parlor aboard Disney Treasure offers a delightfully spooky and immersive experience, bringing the beloved Haunted Mansion attraction to life.
The decor is richly detailed, featuring gothic furnishings, flickering candelabras and portraits that may seem to watch your every move. Special effects create a sense of the supernatural, with mirrors that reveal ghostly apparitions and objects that appear to move on their own.
The menu at the Haunted Mansion Parlor continues the theme, offering a range of drinks with spooky names and dramatic presentations.
Disney Treasure: Skipper Society
The Skipper Society is a jungle-themed bar inspired by the Jungle Cruise ride, complete with quirky decor and adventurous cocktails. There is one particular cocktail that comes in a box filled with smoke. I can’t remember the name of it, but it’s worth asking for.
Disney Wish: Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge
The Star Wars bar on Disney Wish offers a galactic getaway with space-themed drinks and views of passing planets.
With a sleek, futuristic design and stunning special effects, the lounge features large “windows” that transport you to various iconic Star Wars locations, such as Tatooine, Batuu, and Endor, with planets, starships, and cosmic phenomena passing by in real-time.
Disney Wish: The Bayou
The Bayou on Disney Wish is a stunning lounge that brings the charm of New Orleans to the high seas. Inspired by The Princess and the Frog, this enchanting venue captures the essence of the Louisiana bayou with its lush greenery, twinkling lights, and elegant touches of Southern hospitality.
Which is better?
The Haunted Mansion Parlor on the Disney Treasure feels just like the ride. It’s so popular that Disney Cruise Line has had to implement at 45-minute time limit on visits to ensure that everyone gets a turn.
I also love the theming of the Skipper Society which strikes the perfect balance between the feeling of being on the ride and not being too overdone.
4. Stage Shows: Moana Vs The Little Mermaid
Broadway-style shows are a Disney Cruise Line specialty, and each ship has unique productions:
Disney Treasure: The Tale of Moana
Disney Treasure debuts an all-new show based on Moana. This original production brings the epic life story of Moana to life with stunning visuals, dazzling costumes,and a heartfelt narrative that celebrates her journey of self-discovery and bravery.
With iconic songs like How Far I’ll Go and We Know the Way, performed with breathtaking vocal talent and accompanied by dynamic choreography, this is an emotional show. When I watched it there were so many people wiping tears from their eyes, and of course, a roaring standing ovation at the end.
Disney Wish: The Little Mermaid
On board Disney Wish you can see The Little Mermaid, an original adaptation of the classic tale. This stage production reimagines the beloved story, combining the magic of the undersea world with fresh takes on iconic characters like Ariel, Sebastian, and Ursula.
Stunning visuals transport audiences beneath the waves, while unforgettable songs such as Part of Your World and Under the Sea captivate and delight.
Which is better?
Both shows are performed to the highest standards and are thoroughly enjoyable for audiences of all ages. But for me, the Tale of Moana is the winner given the emotional story and incredible special effects.
5. AquaMouse Adventures
Both ships feature the AquaMouse water coaster, but the storytelling differs. As your raft ascends to the highest point, you’ll see short movies on the screens featuring Mickey Mouse and some of your favourite original Disney Characters. Each ship has different movies.
Which is better?
Honestly, I was too busy concentrating on avoiding the sprays of water and getting excited about the view over the side of the ship from the transparent tube that I didn’t pay too much attention to the story on either ship.
6. Itineraries: Shorter Vs Longer
The Disney Wish and Disney Treasure cater to different travel preferences with distinct itineraries, making them ideal for various types of cruisers.
Disney Treasure: 7-Night Sailings
The Disney Treasure offers 7-night itineraries to either Eastern Caribbean destinations like St. Thomas, Tortola, and San Juan, or Western Cari.bean ports such as Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Falmouth, Jamaica.
Departing from Port Canaveral, most itineraries also include a visit to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.
Disney Wish: 3- & 4-Night Sailings
Also departing from Port Canaveral, Disney Wish focuses on shorter sailings, perfect for first-time cruisers or those seeking a quick getaway. Most itineraries are 3- to 4-night cruises with stops in Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest Disney Cruise Line offers…
Which Ship Will You Choose?
Whether you’re drawn to the adventurous allure of the Disney Treasure or the enchanting fairy-tale charm of the Disney Wish, both ships promise unforgettable magic.
Really, your decision will come down to the itinerary. If you can make time for a 7-night cruise, the Disney Treasure is sure to make all of your dreams come true. But, if you also plant to visit the Walt Disney World theme parks while you’re in Florida, then a cruise on the Disney Wish could be perfect for you.
Related Posts:
- Disney Treasure: Everything You Need To Know About Disney’s NEW Cruise Ship
- Disney Cruise Ships: Newest To Oldest
- Disney Wish Review
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
