A Kiwi recommends ... Disney Cruise

The Disney Dream at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island in the Bahamas. Photo / David Roark

Wanting a family-friendly way to explore the Caribbean? Then board a Disney Cruise ship in Galveston, suggests Tim Lamb.

SEE

When Kiwis cruise, they love: This isn't just a cruise for kids. The professional service and catering to adults is impressive. Also, if parents want any alone time, kids will be more than happy to go the Oceaneer Club and Lab (ages 3-10), a Disney movie-themed chaperoned play area.

Best walk: Make the most of the time at the ports to get exercise. Many boats out of Galveston will stop in Cozumel, Mexico, where you can go on a day excursion to Mayan ruins.

Best adventure: Castaway Cay in the Bahamas is Disney's private island and it is exclusive to Disney Cruise Line guests. In addition to enjoying the clear-waters at the beach, you can also interact with stingrays, rent boats or ride bikes around the island.

Best-kept secret: The holiday-themed cruises. Look out for Halloween-themed ships in September and October or a Christmas theme in December.

Must do: Head to the Pirates of the Caribbean deck party and watch the spectacular fireworks show. Disney Cruise Lines is the only cruise line to feature fireworks at sea.

TASTE

Best coffee spot: Sink into a sofa at Cove Cafe, which is located in the adults-only part of the ship.

Best spot to get a sweet treat: Mickey's Premium chocolate-dipped ice cream bars are a hidden treat that you will need to ask your server for.

The best local flavours: If you're lucky enough to stop in San Juan, Puerto Rico, hit Raices restaurant for huge pork chops or bowls of mashed plantains topped with a choice of meat, seafood or vegetables.

Where should families eat? Animator's Palate restaurant is a kids' favourite aboard a Disney Cruise. It features an interactive dinner show through animation.

Where should couples dine? Palo is Disney's adults-only Italian restaurant. Just make sure to save room for the made-to-order chocolate souffle.

Where to hang out when the sun goes down: Head to the theatre to catch one of Disney's award-winning musicals; entertaining for kids and adults.

PLAY

Be one of the first to: Book activities and excursions online before getting on the ship.

Best selfie spot: On Disney Cruises you'll have exclusive access to all Disney's characters, from Frozen's princesses to Jake and his Never Land Pirates and, of course, Minnie and Mickey.

Best place to swim: Stop in Nassau, Bahamas, and spend the day at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort, where you can ride an enclosed water slide through the middle of a shark tank or test the water at Paradise Beach.

STAY

Best couples' retreat: Choose a room with a Navigator's Verandah.

Best family retreat: There are family-sized rooms offering more space. However, if you're travelling with toddlers, try an inside room.

Other highly recommended accommodation: In addition to more space, the Concierge Suites also give you access to exclusive areas on the ship, upgraded in-room amenities and priority boarding.

GETTING THERE

Disney Cruise Line will have 10 sailing dates from Galveston, in 2016. The cruise line also sails from Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Miami, Florida.

For more information: Visit DiscoverAmerica.com