How to Plan the Ultimate Disney Land and Sea Vacation

Combining Walt Disney World with a Disney Cruise is one of the best ways to create an unforgettable, stress-free family getaway. A Disney land and sea vacation blends thrilling theme park days with relaxing, all-inclusive cruise time, giving families the best of both worlds.

If you’ve ever wondered how to plan a seamless land + sea Disney adventure, this guide breaks down itineraries, logistics, perks, and the best times of year to go.

Pro Planning Tip: We recommend using Jessica Lieb with ET Family Travel to book your Disney vacation!

Why a Disney Land and Sea Vacation Is the Ultimate Combo

A land and sea vacation lets you experience:

• The magic and excitement of Walt Disney World theme parks
• The relaxation and luxury of a Disney Cruise Line sailing
• Built-in entertainment, kids’ clubs, dining, and Disney service from start to finish

For families especially those traveling with kids of different ages a Disney land and sea vacation offers balance. You get high-energy park days followed by calm sea days where everyone can recharge.

Popular Disney Land and Sea Vacation Itinerary Options

1. Disney World First, Cruise Second (Most Popular)

This is the most recommended option for families.

Why it works:

• Start strong with theme parks while energy is high
• End your trip relaxing on the cruise
• No pressure to rush through parks at the end

Sample itinerary:

• 4–5 nights at Walt Disney World
• Transfer to Port Canaveral
• 3–7 night Disney Cruise to the Bahamas or Caribbean

2. Cruise First, Disney World Second

This option can work well for certain families.

Best for:

• Families who want to ease into vacation mode
• Guests flying in early for cruise embarkation

Tip: Plan lighter park days at the end since post-cruise fatigue is real.

3. Split-Stay Disney Resorts + Cruise

Some families choose:

• A Value or Moderate Disney resort before the cruise
• A Deluxe resort after the cruise for a grand finale

This creates a premium Disney land and sea vacation without staying deluxe the entire time.

Logistics: How to Get From Disney World to the Cruise Port

Port Canaveral is about 45–60 minutes from Walt Disney World.

Transportation choices include:

• Disney Cruise Line ground transfers (hotel or airport to port)
• Private transportation services
• Rental cars with one-way drop-off

Pro tip: Disney transfers include luggage handling and Disney-level service, making them ideal for families with kids.

Perks of Booking a Disney World and Disney Cruise Vacation Together

While Disney does not offer traditional package deals, planning both parts together comes with major advantages:

• Coordinated dates and resort locations
• Strategic park planning around cruise days
• Dining and Lightning Lane planning that fits your itinerary
• Expert advice on ship selection, staterooms, and itineraries

A professionally planned Disney land and sea vacation ensures no wasted days, no rushed transfers, and no missed opportunities.

Pro Planning Tip: We recommend using Jessica Lieb with ET Family Travel to book your Disney vacation!

Best Disney Cruise Ships to Pair With Disney World

If you’re sailing from Port Canaveral, you’ll likely sail on:

• Disney Wish
• Disney Treasure

Disney Wish is perfect for:

• First-time cruisers
• Younger kids
• Families who love immersive theming

Disney Treasure is ideal for:

• Longer itineraries
• Families with tweens and teens
• Guests who enjoy the newest Disney Cruise experiences

Best Times of Year for a Disney Land and Sea Vacation

Ideal Seasons

• Late January–early March: Lower crowds, cooler weather
• Late April–early June: Great weather before peak summer heat
• September: Lower prices and crowds (excluding holidays)

Times to Avoid (If Possible)

• Major holidays
• Spring break weeks
• Peak summer if heat-sensitive

Timing your Disney land and sea vacation correctly can mean fewer crowds, better pricing, and a more relaxed experience.

How Many Days Do You Need?

A well-paced land + sea trip typically looks like:

• 4–6 park days at Walt Disney World
• 3–7 cruise nights
• 1 travel/transfer buffer day if possible

Trying to do less often feels rushed—especially with kids.

Is a Disney World and Disney Cruise Vacation Worth It?

Absolutely. Families love this combination because:

• Kids get nonstop Disney magic
• Parents get built-in relaxation
• Everything feels cohesive and intentional

With the right planning, a Disney land and sea vacation becomes a once-in-a-lifetime trip that families talk about for years.

Ready to Plan Your Ultimate Disney Land and Sea Disney Vacation?

If you want help designing the perfect Disney land and sea vacation, from resorts and park days to cruises and transfers, working with a Disney-focused travel planner can save you time, stress, and money while maximizing every magical moment.

Let the planning be done for you, so all you have to do is enjoy the magic—on land and at sea.