When most people book a Disney cruise online, they pick a category, click the first room that comes up, and move on. That's fine. But some of the best rooms on every ship hide inside ordinary categories, and if you don't know they exist, you can't ask for them.
The "secret" one-bedroom suites
On the Wish-class ships (Disney Wish, Treasure, Destiny and the new Disney Believe), there are two staterooms that book as a category 4E Deluxe Family Verandah stateroom but feel like a one-bedroom suite: rooms 6196 and 6696, at the aft corners of deck 6.
Here's what makes them special:
- A sofa and bunk on one side
- A separate bedroom on the other
- A verandah that wraps around the corner of the ship
- Two patio doors
I booked one of these for my own family, and I have a feeling it's going to ruin me for every other stateroom. Because they price as a family verandah, they're a remarkable value. They also book up fast, so if one is on your wish list, book as early as you can.
The Disney Destiny has another hidden gem: a family verandah category that, in reality, feels much closer to a one-bedroom suite. Our agency owner toured one, and it's stunning.
Aft staterooms
Aft (back of the ship) verandah rooms are one of my favourite finds. Many have extra space inside and a much bigger verandah than a standard room, with a view of the ship's wake as you sail. On our last Disney Fantasy cruise, that huge aft verandah became our favourite spot on the whole ship.
Are all verandahs the same?
No. If a verandah price looks surprisingly low, check what kind it is:
- Clear railing: the classic glass-railed verandah most people picture.
- White wall: a solid wall instead of a clear railing. You still get fresh air and privacy, but less of a view when seated. Common on the older ships.
- Navigator's Verandah: a more enclosed balcony with a large open window. Great for cooler or windier itineraries.
None of these are bad. You just want to know what you're getting before you pay for it.
What is a guarantee room?
A guarantee booking (you'll see "GTY") means you're promised a room in the category you paid for, but Disney picks the exact room. It's often the cheapest way into a category, and every now and then it comes with a surprise upgrade, never guaranteed. Some guarantee rates are restricted: non-refundable and no changes. Those can be great value close to sailing, but only if your plans are firm.
Why it pays to ask
Finding the right stateroom for your family, and knowing which room numbers have the little extras, is part of what I do. Pick the sailing you like here, save the room category that fits your budget, and tell me what matters to you when you send it. I'll go hunting for the room.
