Rope Drop: On Deck - A Cruise News and Planning Podcast

We just stepped off the Disney Destiny… and we're ready to tell you everything. From the moment we boarded the maiden voyage to the final walk off in Fort Lauderdale, we're breaking down our full trip report of Disney Cruise Line's newest ship. If you want real experiences, dining reactions, show reviews, and honest impressions—this is the Destiny episode you've been waiting for.   This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Michelle and Doug deliver their complete Disney Destiny maiden voyage trip report! After last week's teaser, we're diving deep into what it's actually like to sail the newest DCL ship. We cover first moments onboard, stateroom impressions, dining, entertainment, characters, lounges, Castaway Cay, and all the surprises the Destiny has to offer. If you're planning a cruise on the Disney Destiny—or just want to hear what worked, what didn't, and what stood out from the Wish/Treasure class—this episode is packed with details you won't want to miss. Word of the day thanks to Back To The Mouse.  

⭐️ We're recording from onboard the brand-new Disney Destiny! Michelle and Doug give you their first reactions from the maiden voyage — and tease everything coming in next week's full deep-dive episode. Recording From the Disney Destiny! First Impressions Teaser Episode This week's Rope Drop On Deck is a special mini-episode recorded directly from the Disney Destiny! Michelle and Doug share raw, fresh first impressions of Disney Cruise Line's newest ship as they sail the maiden voyage. From the Grand Hall to the energy onboard to what instantly surprised us — this quick episode sets the stage for next week's full breakdown, where we'll cover dining, shows, lounges, characters, staterooms, and everything you really want to know about the Destiny. If you're curious what the ship feels like, what's different from the Wish and Treasure, and what you can look forward to as we review the entire itinerary, this teaser will get you excited for what's coming!    

⭐️  What happens when Michelle and Emily get a sneak-peek sailing on Disney Cruise Line's newest ship? We're breaking down everything — the Grand Hall, the lounges, the shows, the food, and the surprises — from the exclusive Disney Destiny preview cruise. The Disney Destiny Is Here! Full Preview Cruise Breakdown This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle welcome back friend of the show Emily of Magical Mouse Travel to talk all about the Disney Destiny Preview Cruise. Fresh off the ship, Michelle and Emily share first impressions, insider details, and what makes this Wish-Class ship stand apart from the Wish and Treasure. We cover everything from the redesigned Grand Hall, themed lounges, dining highlights, and the newest entertainment onboard — plus the jaw-dropping Tower Suite and Hero Suite! If you're planning a future sailing on the Disney Destiny or just love hearing about new Disney Cruise Line ships, this episode is packed with first-hand insight you won't get anywhere else. Stick around to the end for a rapid-fire virtual muster drill and learn Emily's cruise favorites! In This Episode News & Updates Disney Cruise Line to have 4 ships sailing in 10 days Princess adds Celebration Key to select itineraries Big NYC terminal overhaul announced The Price Is Right to film aboard Royal Caribbean's Utopia Icon of the Seas heading to Texas in 2027 Disney Destiny Preview Cruise Why Michelle & Emily were invited onboard First impressions entering the Grand Hall "Is it just the Wish or Treasure with new lipstick?"

Ready to get the most out of your next Disney Cruise?

Ever wondered what it's really like to stay in a suite on a cruise ship — from private lounges to in-room slides and seven-headed showers?

Ready to explore the best Disney Cruise Line excursions — from Europe to the Caribbean — through the eyes of a teen cruiser?

Ready to sail through the stunning fjords of Norway?

Embarkation day can make or break your cruise experience — but with the right plan, you'll start your vacation stress-free and full of fun. Doug and Michelle share their best tips, tricks, and go-to routines for that all-important first day on board. What To Do (and Avoid) on Cruise Embarkation Day Welcome aboard another episode of Rope Drop On Deck! This week, Doug and Michelle dive into embarkation day strategy — the key to starting your cruise off right. From what to pack in your carry-on, to navigating lunch options, to can't-miss Day 1 activities, we'll walk you through our personal routines and highlight the common mistakes you'll want to avoid. Plus, we've got an Apple Podcast review from Lindsey 740, the word of the day “Steerage” (thanks to Back To The Mouse), and cruise news updates including storms rerouting itineraries, Portland's cheeky welcome sign, and new tropical ferries for Royal Caribbean's Beach Club. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, this episode will help you maximize every moment of your first day at sea. VOTE FOR PLATTSMOUTH

Thinking about booking a guarantee stateroom on your next cruise? Before you click that button, Doug and Michelle break down when it's worth it—and when it's not. When to Book a Guarantee Stateroom (and When to Avoid It!) This week on Rope Drop On Deck, Doug and Michelle dive into the world of guarantee staterooms—those tempting “you'll get what you get” rooms that can save you money… or surprise you in ways you didn't expect. We'll cover: When to book a verandah guarantee (and when to skip it) Oceanview and inside guarantees—who they're best (and worst) for Why families with babies or light sleepers need to think twice before rolling the dice The risks of being over a theater, under a nightclub, or in high-motion areas Disney Cruise Line restrictions on guarantees (no cancellations or name changes!) How bidding systems like RoyalUp and Upgrade Advantage work—and why you should only bid what you can actually afford Why if you really want a suite, you should just book one from the start ✨ Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, this episode will help you decide if guarantee staterooms are the right call for your next Disney or Royal Caribbean cruise. Cruise News Update – Brought to you by BackToTheMouse.com, your source for cruise deals and sailing tips.              - Disney Discount  

Could you give up Castaway Cay? Or sacrifice Pirate Night? This week, we play One Has to Go: Disney Cruise Edition—and the choices get tough!

Think you know everything about Disney Cruise Line? Even the most seasoned sailors miss these hidden gems, character hacks, and onboard secrets!

Thinking about booking the Disney Treasure? Hear Lauren's (of Rope Drop Radio) honest review of her Western Caribbean sailing—including staterooms, dining, ports, and surprises along the way.

RDOD 114 – Disney Cruise Line Itinerary Release (Fall 2026 & Winter 2027) Disney Cruise Line just dropped their brand-new itineraries for Fall 2026 and Winter 2027—and we've got the full breakdown!

Welcome aboard! This week we welcome on Cris the Cruising Duck Man.  We talk all about the ducks on the ships.  The Virtual Muster Drill is great as well! Follow him on facebook and check out his shop!  Word of the Day - Duck Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com The Adventure Floats Out.   Marvel Day is back at sea Galvaston terminal on track Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week we welcome on Joe from Back To The Mouse to play a little bit of Love it or hate it DCL style.    Word of the Day - (Doug Forgot) Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com What is Norwegian bring to thier island. Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week we talk with Emma and Matt about The Cruise Maps and The Cruse Globe! We also chat about Emma's YouTube channel and some of the amazing fundraising she has done.  Here is a link to her video about Mercy Ships. This is a show not to be missed.  Word of the Day - Maps Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

This week we talk about all the things involved in fling in 2025.  From apps to water.  Word of the Day - Real ID Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS   Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week we chat with Chris about the Wish and much more. He is the DCL Cruising Dad - https://www.dclcruisingdad.com/  Word of the Day - Placeholder  Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS Royal in San Diego Legend of The Seas Seward Alaska gets a new Port! Trump Officals mention going after cruising  Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week discus the summer of 26 Disney Cruise Line scheudle  Word of the Day - Ice Cap Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS Play and Dine     Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week Sheri of Cruise Tips TV joins us to talk about all of her adventures with Youtube, podcasting, and cruising!  We also venture across the globe to hear her stories about far off cruises. Find her website here!  Word of the Day - Catamaran Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS Iceland raises tax Disney raises tips   Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week CT of Tin Foil Mouse Ears joins us to talk about the Port of Galveston.  He recently sailed out of the great state of Texas over Christmas.  Word of the Day - Texas Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS Port Day Change is not so super. Is air plane mode really cruise mode? Disney loses some weight on the GT Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week we talk about all the reasons to set sail in 2025.  We cover the new ships for the year too.  Word of the Day - Stowaway  Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS NO GUNS MEANS CHRISTMAS RUNINED  Its Foggy and I want to Sleep   Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week Michelle takes us on a preview sailing of the Disney Treasure.  Word of the Day - Treasure Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS Mexico kicks the can. Details about Royal Beach Club And the Allure is to Alluring to a small Yacht  Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week we let you know about what you don't need to pack.  Some things are waiting for you on the ship others you just don't need.  Word of the Day - Carry On  Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS Mexico wants more. Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week we are Thankful for Cruising! We talk about all the things we are so thankful for.  Word of the Day - Repositioning  Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS No fun on Carnival meet a duck Treasure has a drone of a time Eric Stonestreet is a Godfather Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week we share what is on a cruisers Christmas Wish List.  Don't know what to get your friends and family?  This is the show for you.  Here is a link to Michelle's favorite sunglasses to lose or break.    Word of the Day - Photo Package Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS Barr votes Regal is back at it. Treasure found in PC   Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! Joe and Nancy of Back To The Mouse join us to chat about what took them so darn long to go on the Disney Wish  Word of the Day - Cheepskate Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS Royal sends 5 to Europe How to hold them     Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! What are the "Don'ts" of Disney Cruise Line  Word of the Day - Over Scheduled  Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com NEWS Cayman Looks to spend the night. Treasure found early Alaska 2026 opens for Royal   Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! Derek is a guest to discuss his sailing on the Disney Fantasy!  Word of the Day - Double Occupancy  Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com Dates for  Disney Royal to build new Juneau port Norwegian puts a ring on Galveston  Bar Harbor Perfect day trams Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! Is there somthing you always forget when you travel.  We share 25 things that we have forgoten or we know someone who has!  Word of the Day - Cruise Casual Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com Another Icon Royal Returns Perfect Day Mexico   Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! Is winter break cruising a thing?  It sure is and now is a great time to plan for 2025!  Word of the Day - Winter Break Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com Split Embarkation The Vote Is In More?? at Sea   Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week we chat about 5 key cruise tips to make sure you get set sail in the best way you can.  Word of the Day - Astern Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com Treasure is on trial The plug is the problem The Luna is coming   Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio   Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3YswFmX   NCL Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3yeJm9X   Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders https://amzn.to/3Scmq21   Magnetic Hooks https://amzn.to/3SiwTsH   2 Pack Pop Up Laundry Hampers https://amzn.to/3WimSgy

Welcome aboard! This week we replace Michelle with Joe of Back to the mouse and we invite on Wes from the DCL Dude Podcast.  We take turns asking each other some deep questions.  Word of the Day - None Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com No Camo an FYI Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio

Welcome aboard! This week we replace Michelle with Joe of Back to the mouse and we invite on Wes from the DCL Dude Podcast.  We take turns asking each other some deep questions.  Word of the Day - Barnacle Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com Every thing is bigger in Texas Disney Destiny booking opens Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio

Welcome aboard! This week we sail north again to Alaska but this time on the Norwegain Encore.  We welcome on Heather who recently sailed with a large group to the last frontier and shares all about it.  Word of the Day - Free At Sea Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com Adventure details  No more plastic wrap for Norwegian  Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio

Welcome aboard! This week we Sam gives us their favorite sailings and excursions from all of their sailing experiences.  It was good to get this chat in before they headed off to college at the University of Kansas.  Word of the Day - 1820 Society  Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com Ducks ruin a cruise Treasure gets Moana Destiny gets Hercules 4 new DCL ships 2027-2031 Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio

Welcome aboard! This week we sail out of Southhampton to the great north.  Stops in Norway, Iceland, and England with Lauren of Touring and Cruises on the DIsney Dream.   We explore each port and some inbetween.   More of Lauren HERE  Word of the Day - The Mid-Atlantic Ridge Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com State of Florida stands in the way.  Treasure gets Moana Destiny gets Hercules 4 new DCL ships 2027-2031 Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio

Welcome aboard! Hurricane season is picking up and altering cruises.  Why would anyone want to sail during it?  We answer that question and more.  Word of the Day - Hurricane - Also Doug admits he is wrong Cruise News - By Back To The Mouse.com Treasure floats Destiny announcement  Virgin voyages starts a running club  Jewelry heist on MSC  Check out Back To the Mouse .com Find us on Social Media More of Michelle More of Doug The Original Rope Drop Radio