Tanya and Laura's Disney Fairy Tale Wedding Photography on the Disney Dream Cruise and Castaway Cay

By: Michelle Vila Photography

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 finally kicking off a new series on the blog featuring all seven of the Disney Cruise Line weddings I’ve photographed. First up: this joyful, love-filled celebration with Tanya and Laura!

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 each other 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.

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.

After the ceremony, they celebrated with a cake cutting and champagne toast, and we ended the night with dreamy fireworks portraits featuring their customized denim jackets — the cutest touch to wrap up a day that was already filled with so much personality, love, and laughter.

If you’ve ever dreamed about getting married on a Disney Cruise (or even if you’re just starting to explore the idea), I’d love to be the one to document it. There’s something truly unique about photographing a wedding at sea — from sunrise balcony portraits to Castaway Cay ceremonies, I’ve got the experience and timeline tips to make the most of every magical moment. Stay tuned for more Disney Cruise weddings coming to the blog soon!

✨ Planning your own Disney Fairy Tale Wedding at Sea?
Let’s chat! Contact me for all the details on my cruise wedding photography experience.

🛳️ About the Disney Dream Cruise Ship

The Disney Dream is one of Disney Cruise Line’s most beloved ships. Launched in 2011, it combines classic ocean-liner elegance with the charm and storytelling Disney is known for. It’s a beautiful and unique setting for couples looking for an intimate, memorable wedding experience at sea.

Quick Facts:

  • Guest capacity: Approximately 4,000
  • Departs from: Miami, FL (also occasionally Port Canaveral)
  • Destinations: Typically sails 3- to 5-night cruises to the Bahamas with a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island
  • Style: Elegant art deco design with subtle 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, making it a stress-free experience.

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 and offers a quiet, romantic setting perfect for intimate weddings and elopements.

3. Stunning Wedding Photography Opportunities
From sunrise balcony portraits and quiet deck strolls to beach ceremonies and fireworks at sea, the Disney Dream offers some of the most beautiful backdrops for wedding photography. The ship’s elegant interiors, colorful character details, and ocean views provide a wide range of creative options.

4. Built-in Honeymoon and Guest Experience
A Disney Cruise wedding allows couples to roll their wedding and honeymoon into one. Guests enjoy a vacation and celebration in one experience. The ship features world-class dining, Broadway-style shows, spas, and plenty of family-friendly fun, making it ideal for weddings with guests of all ages.

5. LGBTQ+ Friendly and Inclusive
Disney Cruise Line is welcoming to all couples and celebrates love in every form. Many couples choose to incorporate personal elements, like rainbow-themed decor, custom outfits, and unique rituals that reflect their story.

Why Hire a Photographer Experienced with 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 within tight timelines, and plan around ship and island schedules. I help couples get the most out of every photo opportunity—onboard and on Castaway Cay.

Summary: Why the Disney Dream is a Great Wedding Choice

  • Private island ceremony on Castaway Cay
  • Built-in wedding, vacation, and honeymoon
  • Intimate, magical setting with exceptional service
  • Inclusive for all couples
  • Incredible photo opportunities on and off the ship
  • Full-service wedding planning through Disney

If you're planning a Disney Fairy Tale Wedding on the Disney Dream or another DCL ship, I’d love to help capture the magic of your day. Reach out for more information and availability.

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