The calendar may say July, but it’s never too early to start planning for the holidays, right? From the catchy holiday jingles, themed food and gatherings with family and cherished loved ones, there are so many reasons why it truly is the most wonderful time of the year!

Whether Guests are looking for a new family tradition or just simply want to add some cheer to the season, Disney Cruise Line has an option to make the magic of the holidays come alive – Very Merrytime Cruises!

From early November through December, the Disney Cruise Line fleet is decked from bow-to-stern with holiday cheer and entertainment during Very Merrytime Cruises. Holiday magic is unwrapped for the whole family with festive holiday decor, favorite characters in their finest holiday attire and a special visit from none other than Santa Claus.

Here are some of Guests’ favorite things about these special holiday sailings on board Disney Cruise Line.

Holly Jolly Decor
When Guests enter the atrium for the first time on their Very Merrytime Cruise, their eyes will likely be immediately drawn to the three-deck-tall Christmas tree. That’s right – from garlands, poinsettias and shimmering lights, décor will fill the nooks and crannies of Disney Cruise Line ships during these holiday sailings, filling Guests’ vacations with holiday merriment from the moment they step on board!

Santa Claus!
What’s a holiday cruise without Santa and Mrs. Claus? Disney Cruise Line may not be at the North Pole, but Guests can still be on the lookout for sightings of ‘Old Saint Nick’ while they’re on board, and they won’t want to miss one of our favorite Disney Cruise Line traditions – Storytime with Mrs. Claus.

Characters in holiday attire
Whether it’s Mickey in his winter sweater, Pluto with antlers or Goofy in a full-fledged Santa suit, Guests’ favorite characters will be dressed in their finest holiday garb during Very Merrytime Cruises.

Castaway Cay
Many Guests’ favorite thing to do for the holidays is trade in white snow for the white sand beaches on Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s private island. But even though Guests may be in the Bahamas, this slice of paradise is decked for the holidays as well – with a tropical flair, of course! A massive Christmas tree, holiday island music and even “snow” flurries await families, guaranteeing that the only “blue” they’ll be feeling this holiday season is the color of the crystal-clear waters!