The Best Rooms on the Disney Destiny: A Stateroom Selection Guide
The Disney Destiny is DCL's newest ship, featuring innovative cabins designed for families. Find out which Disney Destiny cabin is right for your group, focusing on space, value, and prime location on the ship.
Your Heroic Home at Sea
The Disney Destiny, the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, is setting sail with a dazzling array of staterooms and suites, all designed with Disney's signature focus on family comfort and clever space utilization. But with hundreds of options, how do you find the best stateroom for your specific family and budget?
Watch the video now: BEST Disney Destiny Staterooms: Which Cabin Should YOUR Family Book?
As the OrlandoParksGuy, I've broken down the Disney Destiny staterooms to give you our top picks for luxury, family space, value, and optimal location. Forget the confusion of categories—here is our guide to picking your perfect Disney Destiny cabin.
Disney Destiny
1. The Ultimate Splurge: Concierge Destiny Tower Suite (Category 1A)
If your budget has no limits and you seek the most exclusive accommodations at sea, the Concierge Destiny Tower Suite is the indisputable best room on the ship.
Why it’s the Best: This nearly 2,000 square foot, two-story penthouse is situated high in the forward funnel of the ship and features a spectacular Marvel/Iron Man theme. It offers multiple bedrooms, up to 8-person occupancy, and a private elevator within the suite.
The Perk: The suite comes with all Concierge-level benefits, including access to the private Concierge Lounge and sun deck, priority boarding, and dedicated concierge services. It is truly the pinnacle of luxury at sea.
The Details: Sleeps up to 8 guests. 1,966 sq. ft.
Disney Destiny Deck Plan
Disney Destiny Deck Plans
2. Best for Families Who Need Maximum Verandah Space
Deluxe Oceanview With Verandah Stateroom
Typical veranda (balcony) on the Disney Destiny
For many DCL families, the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah is the sweet spot. But if you value outdoor space above all else, there’s a trick to booking the best category:
The Pick: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah (Category 4E Aft)
Why it’s the Best: Select Category 4E staterooms located on the Aft (rear) of the ship feature significantly larger, extended balconies due to the structural "bump-out" of the ship's hull. These verandahs can be some of the biggest outside of the Concierge Suites, offering ample room for dining, lounging, and enjoying wake views.
The Family Feature: These rooms sleep up to 5 guests and come with the indispensable Disney Destiny split bath design (one room with a shower/tub/sink, the other with a toilet/sink), making getting ready for dinner simple.
The Details: Sleeps up to 5 guests. Approx. 284 sq. ft. (including extended balcony).
3. Best Value & Quiet Location
When selecting a non-Concierge cabin, location is everything for a quiet night's sleep.
The Pick (Value): Standard Inside Stateroom (Category 11)
Why it’s the Best: For short cruises or travelers who plan to spend minimal time in their room, the Inside Stateroom offers the most affordable way to sail. These 169 sq. ft. rooms still feature the famous split bath, a huge advantage over most other cruise lines' standard inside cabins.
The Pick (Quiet Decks): For any Verandah or Oceanview stateroom, aim for Decks 7, 8, or 9. These decks are buffered from the noise of the pools and dining venues (located above Deck 11) and the Grand Hall/activity areas (located below Deck 5).
Oceanview Stateroom without the verandah
4. Best Alternative Oceanview (No Verandah)
If a balcony is out of budget, but you still want a stunning view and room for the whole family, this category is a fantastic compromise.
The Pick: Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom (Category 8)
Why it’s the Best: These staterooms trade the balcony for a large porthole window, which can comfortably seat a small child or offer a magnificent, uninterrupted view of the ocean. They are larger than the standard Oceanview cabins and are cleverly laid out to accommodate five people with a Queen bed, a pull-down upper berth, and a single wall pull-down bed.
The Details: Sleeps up to 5 guests. Approx. 237 sq. ft.
5. Best Entry Point to Concierge Perks
Want the VIP experience without springing for a full suite? You can still get private access and personalized service.
The Pick: Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom (Category 3B)
Why it’s the Best: These forward-facing rooms offer the most affordable way to access the Concierge Lounge and private sun deck. They have floor-to-ceiling windows for expansive views and are particularly spacious (357 sq. ft.). If you don't use a balcony often or prefer the added space indoors, this is your best option for premium service access.
The Details: Sleeps up to 5 guests. 357 sq. ft.
Key Takeaway: What to Look For in Any Disney Destiny Stateroom
No matter which Disney Destiny cabin you choose, nearly all of them feature the following family-friendly, essential amenities:
Split Bathrooms: A DCL standard, separating the toilet and sink from the shower/tub and secondary sink. A life-saver for families getting ready.
Under-the-Bed Storage: All large luggage easily slides beneath the queen bed, freeing up valuable floor space.
Hero-Worthy Theming: Staterooms feature subtle, elegant artwork and design touches inspired by heroic Disney and Pixar films, including Mulan, Brave, Hercules, and The Incredibles.
When booking your voyage, use this guide to confidently select the best Disney Destiny room for a truly heroic vacation!
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
Search for more information on my blog.
Recent Articles
Ready to keep exploring? Dive into more adventures from Orlando theme parks and cruises:
8 Cruise Line Secrets They Don’t Want You to Know
Think you know how cruising works? 🚢 Here are 8 behind-the-scenes cruise secrets the cruise lines don’t want you to know — including hidden fees, upgrade tricks, and real tips from Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean travelers.
If you’ve ever wondered what cruise lines don’t tell you before you book, this post is for you. I recently made a video called “8 Cruise Secrets the Cruise Lines Don’t Want You to Know” — and it’s one of the most eye-opening cruise tips videos I’ve ever made. You can watch it here 👇
Whether you’re planning your first Disney Cruise, setting sail with Royal Caribbean, or thinking about your next Carnival voyage, knowing what goes on behind the scenes can save you money, stress, and a few surprises once you’re onboard.
#8 – Cruise Lines Make More Money After You Board
The ticket price is just the beginning. Cruise lines keep fares low to get you onboard, but they make their real profit from what happens once you’re at sea. Drinks, spa treatments, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and even bottled water add up fast.
The onboard economy is built around upsells — so it pays to plan ahead. Many of these extras can be booked online before you cruise, often for less.
💡 Pro Tip: Book drink packages and excursions before boarding day, and set a spending limit in the app if you’re traveling with family.
#7 – What Most Passengers Don’t Know About the Medical Center
Every cruise ship has a medical center, but it’s not like a full hospital. It’s designed for basic care, emergencies, and stabilizing patients until they can reach a port.
What most people don’t realize: visits can be very expensive and are billed out-of-pocket if your insurance doesn’t cover travel.
💡 Pro Tip: Always travel with insurance that includes cruise medical coverage — even if you’re only cruising to the Caribbean.
#6 – Crew Members Work Long Hours Behind the Magic
Cruise ship crews are some of the hardest-working people in hospitality. Many work 10–12 hour days, seven days a week, for months at a time.
They live onboard, often sharing small cabins below deck, and rotate between contracts. Despite that, the majority of crew members love what they do and take pride in delivering great guest experiences.
💡 Pro Tip: Be kind to your crew — a genuine thank-you or small gratuity can make a big difference.
Surfside on Star of the Seas
#5 – That “Free” Cabin Upgrade Isn’t Always a Deal
You might be offered a last-minute upgrade for what seems like a small fee — but here’s the catch: those “deals” often come with trade-offs.
You could lose your preferred cabin location, your connecting room, or even end up under a noisy deck area. Always double-check before saying yes to an upgrade.
💡 Pro Tip: If you love your current cabin, keep it. Not every “upgrade” is actually better.
#4 – Onboard Wi-Fi Is a Profit Center
Cruise Wi-Fi has come a long way, especially with Starlink internet now rolling out on major lines. But it’s still pricey — and the “unlimited” plans often come with restrictions like no streaming or video calls.
💡 Pro Tip: Download movies, playlists, and eBooks before you sail. If you must stay connected, buy the full-cruise Wi-Fi package early — it’s usually discounted pre-cruise.
#3 – Shore Excursions Aren’t Always Run by the Cruise Line
That “official” excursion may not actually be run by the cruise company. Many are operated by third-party vendors, and prices are marked up significantly.
💡 Pro Tip: Research local tour operators before your trip. You’ll often find the exact same experiences for less — just make sure they guarantee on-time return to the ship.
Icon of the Seas Balcony Stateroom
#2 – Your Cabin Is Watched More Closely Than You Think
Ever wonder how your room gets cleaned so fast? Cruise lines track cabin occupancy digitally — they know when you’re out, so housekeeping can step in.
There are no hidden cameras (don’t worry!), but motion sensors and smart locks are often used to optimize service and energy use.
💡 Pro Tip: Turn on your “Do Not Disturb” sign when you need privacy. Crew members respect it — and you’ll get fewer interruptions.
#1 – Cruise Lines Rely on Your Data
From the moment you download the app to your last night onboard, cruise lines collect tons of data — what you order, where you go, even which bars you linger at.
It’s not sinister; it’s about marketing. They use it to tailor offers, promotions, and future itineraries.
💡 Pro Tip: Use guest mode if you’d rather not share too much data, and skip optional surveys that aren’t required.
Bonus: Cruise Gratuities Are Split (and Sometimes Pooled)
Many first-time cruisers assume their prepaid gratuities go straight to their server or stateroom host. In most cases, tips are pooled and distributed among a larger team — including support staff you never meet.
💡 Pro Tip: If someone goes above and beyond, tip them directly with cash at the end of your cruise. It ensures they actually receive it.
Ready to Cruise Smarter? Watch the Full Video
These are just a few of the cruise secrets I reveal in my latest YouTube video. I go deeper into how cruise lines make money, what they don’t advertise, and the small details that make a big difference for first-time cruisers.
🎥 Watch the full video now: 8 Cruise Line Secrets They Don’t Want You to Know
If you found this post helpful, be sure to subscribe to my channel for more cruise tips, Disney Cruise Line insights, and honest advice for travelers who want to make the most of their vacation time.
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
Search for more information on my blog.
Recent Articles
Ready to keep exploring? Dive into more adventures from Orlando theme parks and cruises:
Top 10 Things for Kids to Do on Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is like a floating theme park, packed with non-stop family fun. Here are the top 10 activities kids will love on the world’s largest cruise ship.
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas isn’t just a cruise ship—it’s a theme park at sea. This massive vessel is packed with family-friendly activities, thrilling adventures, and plenty of ways to keep kids entertained from sunup to sundown.
If you’re planning a cruise on the world’s largest ship, you’ll want to know the must-dos for your family. I’ve rounded up the Top 10 Things for Kids to Do on Star of the Seas—and trust me, your kids won’t want to leave!
🎥 Watch my full YouTube video of this list here (video embed below!) for a closer look at each activity and tips for making the most of your cruise.
10. Adventure Ocean & Social020
Adventure Ocean is Star of the Seas’ supervised kids’ club, designed like a summer camp at sea. The staff is energetic and engaging, keeping kids entertained while parents enjoy some downtime.
For older kids and teens, Social020 provides a safe space to make friends and enjoy activities designed just for them, like dance parties and sports tournaments. My tip? Encourage your teen to go on the first night—it’s when icebreaker games and introductions happen.
9. Surfside
Surfside is the ultimate family neighborhood on board. This kid-focused zone has:
Playscape: A colorful climbing and play area.
Splashaway Bay: A splash pad with slides and drench buckets.
Baby Bay: A safe splash zone for toddlers.
Water’s Edge Pool: A family pool with ocean views.
Arcade: Classic games (set a spending limit in advance!).
It’s the perfect home base for families, with everything close enough to keep an eye on your kids while you relax.
8. Kid-Friendly Food
Star of the Seas is a foodie paradise—even for picky eaters. Kids will love:
Sorrento’s Pizza – My go-to spot for a quick slice.
Surfside Eatery – A buffet designed for families.
Crème de la Crêpes – Sweet and savory crepes.
Base Camp – Deck 16’s quick-serve comfort food.
Surfside Ice Cream – Scoops and soft serve all day.
Everything is easy to access, making mealtimes stress-free.
7. Thrill Island: Rock Climbing & Mini Golf
On Deck 16, Thrill Island combines action and adventure.
Adrenaline Peak: A rock climbing wall with routes for every skill level.
Lost Dunes Mini Golf: A beautifully themed course with ocean views.
Map of Perfect Day at CocoCay. Click map to enlarge.
6. Perfect Day at CocoCay
Every Star of the Seas itinerary includes a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private Bahamian island. Families can enjoy:
Oasis Lagoon Pool: The largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.
Harbor Beach: Calm, shallow waters for little ones.
Thrill Waterpark: Record-breaking slides (extra charge applies).
Splashaway Bay: A safe splash zone for kids.
🎥 I have a full Perfect Day at CocoCay guide in another video here.
5. Sports Courts
The full-size basketball court is perfect for one-on-one games or pickup matches, and there’s also soccer, dodgeball, and pickleball. Check the Royal app for tournament schedules and family activities.
4. The Family Pool & Category 6 Waterpark
Deck 15’s Family Pool offers in-water loungers, lifeguards, and easy access to the Lime & Coconut bar and El Loco Fresh.
For thrill-seekers, Category 6 is the largest waterpark at sea, with record-breaking slides like Frightening Bolt and Pressure Drop, plus two raft slides for the whole family.
3. AquaTheater Show – Torque
Torque is a high-energy, action-packed show in a massive aquatic theater. It’s filled with stunts, diving, and acrobatics—perfect for kids who don’t love traditional stage shows.
2. Absolute Zero: Laser Tag & Ice Skating
Absolute Zero offers two family favorites:
Laser Tag: A massive arena with futuristic themes. Book early in the Royal app—it fills up fast!
Open Ice Skating: Bring pants and arrive early for skate rentals.
1. Crown’s Edge
Crown’s Edge is the ultimate thrill: a skywalk and ropes course 154 feet above the ocean that ends with a surprise drop! This heart-pounding experience is perfect for brave kids (and parents) looking for an unforgettable story.
There’s so much to explore aboard Star of the Seas that you’ll never run out of things to do. For an even deeper dive, check out my full Star of the Seas YouTube playlist below!
📺 Watch the Video Here:
Darren spent nearly 20 years as an Orlando travel agent, helping families plan unforgettable vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Disney Cruise Line, and beyond. Today, he has transitioned his passion for travel into writing and video production. As a travel writer and producer, Darren shares insider tips, reviews, and in-depth guides through his blog and his travel channel on YouTube, where viewers can explore destinations, resorts, and theme parks with him. You can find his videos here on his Travel Channel.
Search articles
Recent Articles
Ready to keep exploring? Dive into more adventures from Orlando theme parks and cruises:
Royal Beach Club Bahamas: Royal Caribbean’s New Private Paradise Opens December 2025
Royal Caribbean is opening the Royal Beach Club in Nassau, Bahamas — an exclusive beach experience launching December 2025. See concept art, learn about activities, and get booking tips in this first look.
Opening Date & Booking Info
Grand Opening: December 27, 2025, with inaugural guests welcomed aboard Symphony of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas, or Liberty of the Seas.
Booking Now Open: Day passes and cabana reservations are live as of July 2025 via the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner or onboard Shore Excursion desks.
Pricing:
Unlimited Open Bar & Dining Day Pass: from US $169.99 (21+)
Non‑Alcoholic Pass: from US $129.99 (13+) & US $109.99 (ages 4–12)
Kids 3 and under free.
Capacity & Advice: Designed for up to 4,000 guests (versus 13,000 at CocoCay). Passes can sell out quickly—especially during peak times—so early booking is highly recommended
What’s Included with the Royal Beach Club Bahamas Day Pass
Your pass grants:
Round-trip water taxi transport from Nassau port with two drop-off docks
Unlimited access to two pristine beaches and three themed pools.
Lounge chairs, umbrellas, towels, lockers, showers, and free Wi-Fi
Complimentary snacks at three beach grills and drinks at ten bars
Live music, entertainment options, lawn games (e.g., cornhole, tumbling towers), and artisan markets showcasing Bahamian crafts
When to Book
Booking opened in early July for sailings calling Nassau in December and beyond. Pricing is subject to seasonal shifts—your best bet is to secure your spot 4–6 months ahead. Passes can purchased onboard if still available, but shore-ex desk tends to run low during popular sailing days.
Why This Matters for Orlando Parks Fans
Sure, Orlando has its splashes, but the Royal Beach Club offers a unique shore-side escape exclusive to Royal Caribbean guests. It blends private-venue vibes with Bahamian flair—lightning-fast ferry, upscale amenities, and lively zones—delivering a premium, eco-friendly outreach beyond theme park gates. Plus, it signals the future of cruise-destination partnerships.
Many Royal Caribbean cruises with a Bahamas itinerary that depart from Orlando (Port Canaveral) stop in Nassau.
Final Takeaway
Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is shaping up to be a luxurious, well-rounded shore excursion—ideal for families, party lovers, and those seeking relaxation. With its all-inclusive design, limited capacity, and Bahamian-led development, it's a fresh offering for cruise fans planning a Nassau stop. If you're onboard, snag that pass early and soak up the ultimate beach day!
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
Search articles
Recent Articles
See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
These are the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise offers of the year (2024)
Royal Caribbean’s Early Black Friday sale is happening now for most major cruise itineraries. If you’re a cruiser, this is the offer you wait for all year.
Royal Caribbean's early Black Friday sale for 2024 is officially underway, offering me a variety of exciting deals on cruise vacations that I cannot ignore. I find that they provide enticing discounts on select sailings, up to $750 off most cruises, along with special perks such as generous onboard credits kids sail FREE, and 60% off your second guest.
The offer strategically targets a wide range of destinations, making it appealing for different types of travelers with diverse interests and preferences.
I truly appreciate how the promotion encourages booking early, as it allows me to secure my preferred dates and itineraries at a fantastic value, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.
Royal Caribbean Early Black Friday Sale 2024
Royal Caribbean BOGO60
Booking Window: November 8 - December 9, 2024
Sailing Window: Sailings departing on or after November 9, 2024
Offer Details: Buy One Guest, Get Second Guest 60% Off & 30% Off on 3/4 Guest
Royal Caribbean Kids Sail Free
Booking Window: November 8 - December 9, 2024
Sailing Window: Sailings departing on or after November 9, 2024
Offer Details: Guest 12 and under sail free on sailings 3 nights or longer*
Black Friday Preview Sale
Black Friday Preview Sale
Booking Window: November 8 – 11, 2024
Sailing Window: Sailings departing on or after November 9, 2024
Offer details: Up to $750 Instant Savings
*Kids Sale Free Offer excludes:Thanksgiving Sailings (Departing between November 22, 2024 – November 29, 2024); (Departing between November 20 - November 28, 2025), Holiday Sailings (Departing December 20, 2024 – January 3, 2025); (Departing between December 18, 2025 – January 1, 2026), Spring Break Sailings (Departing between March 7, 2025 – March 28, 2025); (Departing between March 6, 2026 – April 9, 2026), Holy Week/Easter sailings (Departing between April 12, 2025 – April 24, 2025), Radiance Alaska Cruise Tour Sailings (Departing May 16, 2025 – September 12, 2025); Summer sailings (Departing between May 22, 2025 – August 29, 2025); Anthem of the Seas sailings (Departing November 21 – December 28, 2024); Chinese New Year sailing on Anthem of the Seas (Departing January 27, 2025) except for Alaska Summer Sailings (Departing May 23 – August 29, 2025)
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
Search articles
Recent Articles
See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
Think you know everything about the Disney parks? Think again. In Part 2 of our Abandoned Walt Disney World series, we go behind the gates of shuttered restaurants, forgotten gift shops, and a mystery island that Disney would rather you forget.