Disney Cruise Line: New Caribbean Cruising Destinations for 2016

Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, in the Bahamas Photo: PRNewsFoto/Disney Cruise Line

Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, in the Bahamas.
Photo: PRNewsFoto/Disney Cruise Line

My various versions of a “happy place” have just collided in a big tropical way. The fun and adventure of Walt Disney World and the tranquility and relaxation of crystal clear Caribbean waters … What could be better than that?

Disney Cruise Line has just introduced two new Caribbean destinations – Tortola, capital of the British Virgin Islands, and the French island of Martinique. These itineraries will be available in early 2016. Bookings are open to the public on October 30, 2014. The Disney cruise ships Fantasy, Magic and Wonder will be transporting guests to these tropical destinations.

Sailing ship docked in Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

Sailing ship docked in Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

Tortola – Port Canaveral to Eastern Caribbean

In 2016, Disney Cruise Line will sail from Port Canaveral, Florida, on a seven-night itinerary to the Eastern Caribbean, including a call in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, in the Bahamas.

From tranquil beaches and stunning scenery to island activities and authentic British Caribbean fare, Tortola is a tropical escape for all ages. Disney Cruise Line guests can create memories in Tortola while swimming with dolphins and exploring centuries-old ruins, pirate hangouts and the beauty of Sage Mountain National Park and Cane Garden Bay.

Cane Garden Bay from above - Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

Cane Garden Bay from above – Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

Ports

  • Port Canaveral; Tortola; St. Thomas; Castaway Cay

Departure dates

  • Disney Fantasy: January 2, 16, 30;  February 13, 27;  March 12, 26;  April 9, 23
  • Disney Magic: April 3, 17

Rates start at $1,120.00 per person for seven-night Eastern Caribbean Disney cruises for a category 11C standard inside stateroom, based upon double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are not included.

 

The islands of the Caribbean. Photo: Wikipedia/Commons

The islands of the Caribbean.
Photo: Wikipedia/Commons

Martinique – San Juan to Southern Caribbean

Disney Cruise Line returns to San Juan, Puerto Rico in early 2016 as the Disney Wonder sails four seven-night cruises to the Southern Caribbean, including a stop in Martinique on a new itinerary for Disney Cruise Lines.

Martinique offers a unique island experience complete with breathtaking natural beauty and French and creole influences. Nature lovers will appreciate the lush rainforests, waterfalls and volcanic landmarks while superb French cuisine and world-class shopping will appeal to guests looking for an upscale experience.

Ports

  • San Juan; Barbados; Grenada; Martinique; Antigua; St. Kitts

Departure dates

  • Disney Wonder: January 10, 17, 24, 31

Rates start at $980.00 per person for seven-night cruises from San Juan for a category 11C standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are not included.

Disney's Castaway Cay in the Bahamas. Photo: Flickr/Josh Hallet/CC license

Disney’s Castaway Cay in the Bahamas.
Photo: Flickr/Josh Hallet/CC license

Port Canaveral and Miami to the Bahamas and Caribbean

In 2016, Disney Cruise Line will sail from Port Canaveral and Miami to the Bahamas and Caribbean on a variety of itineraries. All of these cruises include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

From Port Canaveral, rates start at $375.00 per person for three-night cruises, $500.00 per person for four-night cruises and $1,120.00 per person for seven-night cruises for a category 11C standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are not included.

From Miami, rates start at $325.00 per person for four-night cruises and $440.00 per person for five-night cruises for a category 11C standard inside stateroom, based on double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses are not included.

The Disney Dream on Castaway Cay in the Bahamas. Photo: Flickr/Josh Hallett/CC license

The Disney Dream on Castaway Cay in the Bahamas.
Photo: Flickr/Josh Hallett/CC license

I have never been on a cruise myself. I’ve always preferred to take in the culture, sites and attractions of an island on my own time, rather than being bounded by timeframes and debarking schedules (I’m also terrified of gaining five gazillion pounds with all of the buffets and such, but that’s a whole other set of issues). That being said, a Disney cruise is on my sand bucket list. The possibility of combining a Disney cruise with my favorite Caribbean island of Tortola is an added bonus.

For more information on 2016 Disney cruises, please visit DisneyCruise.Disney.go.com.