Conde Nast Rate Disney Cruise Line Large Ships Number 1

If you’ve ever dreamed of taking your Disney holiday to the next level this might be your sign. Disney Cruise Line has just been crowned the #1 Large Ship Cruise Line in Conde Nast Traveler’s prestigious Reader’s Choice Awards. A title voted for by over 757,000 travelers around the world.

It’s a huge moment for Disney’s fleet, but it’s also perhaps a big hint for UK holidaymakers in love with the parks. If you’re already flying across the Atlantic for Walt Disney World, why not make a dual stay holiday and add a few days at sea?

What Makes Disney Cruise Line #1?

Readers recognised Disney Cruise Line for its exceptional guest service, world-class entertainment, and family-focused design.

Disney has taken everything it does best in the parks: the storytelling, the theming, the hospitality, and built it into its five ships. The specific ships in the Large category fleet had to have a capacity of 4,000 people or more. This means that Conde Nast Readers have crowned The Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish number 1.

Each of these three ships blends themed dining, Broadway-style shows, detailed ship decor, and character meet-and-greets with that signature Disney detail fans just love. There are also adult-only pools, lounges and fine dining options giving grown-ups an escape.

Each itinerary blends Disney magic with world-class destinations. Cruises sail to the Caribbean, the Bahama, Alaska, Canada, Europe, and the Pacific Coast. The three winning ships also often stop at Disney’s private islands, Castaway Cay and now Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

From Cinderella Castle to the Caribbean

For UK guests, the logistics of combining a cruise with a Walt Disney World holiday is surprisingly simple. Most Disney cruises from Florida depart from Port Canaveral, just an hours drive or bus ride from Walt Disney World Resort. There is even a connecting Disney bus service.

That means you can easily combine your holiday with a 3 - 7 night cruise. No extra flights, no major transfers, and no travel-day stress. And now, you can be reassured that you would be heading to a world class experience.

Disney currently have an offer for UK visitors looking to combine a cruise with a Walt Disney World holiday in summer 2026. You can check-out the deal in the image below, and it is valid for bookings made before 5th November 2025 according to Disney’s website.

Offering a great mix of park thrills and seaside chill, the timing of this deal is perfect given their award winning status.

A Note on the Medium Ship Category

While Disney topped the large ship rankings, its smaller and older cruise boats: the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder didn’t get the same Conde Nast traveler recommendation. Instead they came in 16th in the “Medium Ship Line” category.

Both ships debuted in the late 1990’s and we can see that they remain favourites among Disney Cruise loyalists. While some cruise fans may appreciate the Art Deco design and more intimate atmosphere; UK guests look for the award winning cruise experience may want to stick to the Dream, Fantasy or Wish cruise boats.

New Ships; New Adventures

Disney Cruise Line Fleet is continuing to grow. The Disney Destiny was handed over to the cruiseline on 15th October 2025 and is set to embark on her inaugural voyage on 20th November 2025. This heroes and villains themed ship is one of a number of new Disney Cruise Line boats debuting in the next 12 months, so maybe it is time for UK visitors to consider a double Disney trip from the UK.

Why It’s Worth Considering

For many UK families, a Disney Cruise can feel like a big investment, and it can be, but as a cruise line Disney do provide more value than you might expect. Plus the cruise provides a nice rest after those 20,000 + footstep days in the park. Here’s why you might want to think about it:

• Meals, soft drinks, and entertainment are all included.

• Character meet-and-greets are included

• You get a restful break after busy park days

• Only one extra transfer

Booking through Disney holidays UK or a UK travel agent can simplify things if you are nervous about arranging it all yourself. Plus with the package you get piece of mind and full ATOL protection.

Disney' Cruise Line’s top ranking isn’t just a trophy, it’s proof that Disney magic doesn’t just stop at the parks.