10 Things I miss on Disney Cruise Line

After 70+ cruises, it will come as no surprise that I’m a huge fan of Disney Cruise Line. Over the years, many things have changed. Some for the better, some for the – not so better. Nothing on this list is earth-shattering, and nothing on this list will make me stop going, but I do wish some of them would come back!

1. Color at Animator’s Palate – So, back in the day, when the Magic and Wonder first sailed, Animator’s Palate was a little bit different. The lighting and effects have been improved over time, but not every change has been an improvement. In the beginning, it wasn’t just the walls and lighting that changed! The servers actually changed their clothes! They went from black-and-white shirts and ties to colored jackets, vests, and ties, depending on their position. It was so cool! And I miss it.

2. Dinner in Cabanas – This is a big one. Probably should be number one if we are going in order of importance. Bring back Cabanas for dinner. Every single other major cruise line has a buffet or similar option at dinner. Disney took theirs away during Covid and it never came back. It wasn’t a buffet at dinner, but it was a casual sit-down option that was inside, open when you want, and open all during dinner hours. The pool deck food, with limited hours and outdoor seating, is not a suitable replacement.

3. Pirate Buffet – There used to be a buffet after the fireworks on Pirate Night! Did I need more food at 10:30? Absolutely not. Did I go and eat baked potatoes anyway? You bet I did. And it was always packed with guests.

4. Dessert Buffet – This one ended long ago, but on 7-night cruises, there used to be a late-night dessert buffet. I know there was a lot of waste, but boy, it was fun to see all those delicious options. I miss that one!

5. Shows Every Night – I was disappointed recently on a 9-night Alaska cruise when I realized there was nothing in the Walt Disney Theatre on some nights. I hate that change! Disney used to always have something, even just a movie, as an option every evening.

6. Virtual Muster Drills – I know we all miss this one. Disney held a virtual muster drill when it reopened after COVID. Pretty much every other major line has kept it virtual, but not Disney. It’s a long, hot (depending on where your muster station is), in-person chore these days.

7. Palo Buffet at Brunch – Palo Brunch buffet used to be the thing of dreams. There was ala carte options to order, as well as a glorious buffet of pastries, sweet rolls, chocolate-covered strawberries, seafood, and more. I understand it’s a more refined experience without the buffet, but I miss it. Also, just now realizing how many of the things on this list involve unlimited buffet food…

8. Printed Navigators – Yes, they weren’t environmentally friendly. But boy, it was fun to get back to our stateroom at night, see them there, and highlight what we wanted to do the next day!

9. Meals in Kids’ Clubs Onboard – The kids used to be able to eat meals when they were checked in to the kids’ clubs, but not anymore. That’s a shame for parents who must go back and grab them for food.

10. Strict Dress Codes for Adult Dining – I realize I may be in the minority for this one, but I miss people dressing up for some meals. Palo, in particular, has significantly diluted their dress code. I get that not everyone wants to dress up on vacation, but these restaurants are optional! No one has to go.

Is there anything you miss? Let me know in the comments!