There’s an Exciting Upgrade Coming to Disney Cruise Line

Updated: Apr. 11, 2023

MagicBands are no longer just for Disney theme parks—this summer they're headed to Disney cruise ships.

The happiest cruise line on Earth is about to get make guests a lot happier. For the first time, Disney Cruise Lines are introducing a version of their signature MagicBands, known as DisneyBands+, to their fleet starting this summer. The revolutionary wearable technology that is beloved by guests of Disney theme parks is bound to be a game changer for vacationers aboard Disney cruises.

What’s coming to Disney Cruises this year?

For the first time, the MagicBands that have been popular fixtures at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort for the last ten years are heading to Disney Cruises, and they’ll be known as DisneyBand+. Until now, guests aboard Disney cruise ships have used Disney’s “Key to the World” card to open the door to their cabins. DisneyBand+ is a huge upgrade from the plastic card, that is often worn around the neck on a clunky lanyard. DisneyBand+ is expected to begin appearing on select Disney cruises as early as this summer.

What are Disney MagicBands?

A variety of Disneys new MagicBand+ at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, CAMediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty Images/Getty Images

Comparable in size to a Fitbit or Apple Watch, a Disney MagicBand is a piece of wearable technology that functions as the key to your Disney theme park experience. MagicBands enable guests to tap into the park using a digital ticket, open the door to their Disney resort room, and gain access to the Lightening Lane on their favorite rides. You can also use a Disney MagicBand to pay for treats and souvenirs throughout the park instead of having to reach for your wallet. These colorful wristbands make your visit to Disney theme parks seamless, allowing you to traverse the park and participate in all of the attractions totally hands-free.

When DisneyBand+ makes its Disney cruise debut, guests will be able to unlock their staterooms, link a credit card to be used for payment of onboard purchases, sync photos that were taken by onboard photographers, and give kids access to kids’ clubs on the ship throughout their stay. Best of all, DisneyBand+ are waterproof so you never have to worry about taking them on and off while you enjoy outdoor or water activities.

What cruise ships will you be able to use Disney MagicBands on?

DisneyBand+ is set to debut as a preview aboard the Disney Wish ship this summer, and they are likely to premiere on additional ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet in the months that follow. If you haven’t already, now is the time to start making your Disney Wish reservations so you can enjoy the magic of Disney with the convenience of the brand-new DisneyBand+.

Before you set sail on your next Disney cruise, don’t forget to read up on the cruise line’s best-kept secrets.

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