Tanya and Laura's Disney Fairy Tale Wedding Photography on the Disney Dream Cruise and Castaway Cay
By: Michelle Vila Photography
Tanya & Laura's Disney Fairy Tale Wedding Photography on the Disney Dream Cruise and Castaway Cay
Disney Cruise Line Wedding Magic at Sea
When I say Disney Cruise Line weddings are some of my absolute favorites, this is exactly what I mean. Tanya and Laura’s wedding aboard the Disney Dream in 2022 was the perfect combination of romance, color, and laid-back magic — and I’m thrilled to kick off a new series on the blog featuring all seven of the Disney Cruise weddings I’ve photographed. First up: this joyful, love-filled celebration with Tanya and Laura!
Sunrise Serenity: Getting Ready Together at Sea
Their wedding day started long before the sun came up, and there was something truly magical about how calm and intimate everything felt. The brides got ready together — doing each other’s hair, zipping one another into their custom-made dresses, and sharing the kind of peaceful pre-ceremony morning most couples only dream of.
With the sunrise over the water as our backdrop, we took portraits on their private stateroom balcony and around the ship before anyone else was awake. Those early-morning moments are some of my favorite images from the entire day — quiet, emotional, and filled with connection.
Castaway Cay Ceremony
Once we arrived at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, Tanya and Laura had a beachside ceremony surrounded by their closest loved ones. I loved how they both wore sunglasses and embraced the relaxed, breezy island vibe. Their rainbow-themed details were a beautiful tribute to their LGBTQ+ love story, adding vibrant pops of color that stood out beautifully against the soft beach tones.
Celebrating Love & Laughter
After the ceremony, the celebration continued with a cake cutting and champagne toast. As night fell, we ended the day with dreamy fireworks portraits featuring their customized denim jackets — the perfect finishing touch to a day that was already bursting with personality, love, and laughter.
Planning Your Own Disney Cruise Wedding
If you’ve ever dreamed about getting married on a Disney Cruise — or if you’re just starting to explore the idea — I’d love to be the one to document it. There’s something truly special about photographing a wedding at sea: from sunrise balcony portraits to Castaway Cay ceremonies, every moment feels cinematic and unforgettable.
Stay tuned for more Disney Cruise weddings coming soon to the blog!
✨ Planning your own Disney Fairy Tale Wedding at Sea?
Let’s chat! I’d love to share all the details of my cruise wedding photography experience and help you plan the most magical day ever.
🛳️ About the Disney Dream Cruise Ship
The Disney Dream is one of the most beloved ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Launched in 2011, it combines classic ocean-liner elegance with the whimsy and storytelling Disney is known for. It’s an extraordinary and unique setting for couples looking for an intimate, unforgettable wedding experience at sea.
Quick Facts:
- Guest capacity: Approximately 4,000
- Departs from: Miami, FL (also occasionally Port Canaveral)
- Destinations: 3–5 night Bahamian cruises with a stop at Castaway Cay
- Style: Elegant Art Deco design with timeless Disney theming
Why Get Married on the Disney Dream
1. Disney Fairy Tale Weddings at Sea
Disney Cruise Line offers all-inclusive wedding packages through the Disney Fairy Tale Weddings team. Couples can choose to have their ceremony on the ship or on Castaway Cay. Each package includes planning assistance, floral arrangements, music, officiant, cake, and more — creating a stress-free experience with every detail handled beautifully.
2. Castaway Cay Ceremonies
Say “I do” on Disney’s private island surrounded by turquoise waters and white sand beaches. The ceremony location is exclusive to cruise couples, offering a quiet, romantic, and breathtaking setting perfect for intimate weddings and elopements.
3. Stunning Wedding Photography Opportunities
From sunrise balcony portraits to sunset beach ceremonies and fireworks at sea, the Disney Dream provides endless backdrops for photography. Elegant interiors, whimsical details, and ocean views make every moment picture-perfect.
4. Built-in Honeymoon & Guest Experience
A Disney Cruise wedding doubles as both a celebration and a vacation. Guests can enjoy Broadway-style shows, fine dining, spas, and family fun — while couples get to celebrate and honeymoon all in one magical experience.
5. LGBTQ+ Friendly & Inclusive
Disney Cruise Line is proudly inclusive, welcoming couples of all identities and celebrating love in every form. Many couples add personal touches like rainbow décor, custom jackets, or unique rituals that reflect their story — just like Tanya and Laura did.
Why Hire a Photographer Experienced in Disney Cruise Weddings
Cruise weddings are beautifully unique but come with specific timing and logistical challenges. As someone who has photographed seven Disney Cruise Line weddings, I know how to navigate the ship layout, work around cruise schedules, and optimize light and timing on both the ship and Castaway Cay. My experience ensures every precious moment is captured seamlessly, no matter the location.
Summary: Why the Disney Dream is a Perfect Wedding Choice
- Private island ceremony on Castaway Cay
- Built-in wedding, vacation, and honeymoon
- Magical, intimate setting with world-class service
- Inclusive for all couples
- Incredible photo opportunities on and off the ship
- Full-service wedding planning through Disney Fairy Tale Weddings
If you’re planning a Disney Fairy Tale Wedding on the Disney Dream or any other Disney Cruise Line ship, I’d love to help you capture the magic of your day.
✨ Contact me today for more information and availability.
📸 View More Disney Weddings & Engagements
Explore the full blog for Disney Weddings, Engagements, and Cruise Love Stories