What does it take to reach Pearl status in Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Club — and can it be done in just five years?

In this episode of the DCL Duo Podcast, we’re joined by Tom, who went from his first-ever cruise to 15 Disney sailings in just three years, and is now intentionally working toward Pearl status (25 cruises) within a five-year window.

Tom shares what flipped the switch after reaching Platinum, why his gamer “achievement mindset” fuels his approach, and how spreadsheets, flexibility, and persistence all factor into his strategy. This isn’t about perks alone — it’s about setting a challenge and seeing if it’s possible.

In this episode, we cover:

• How Castaway Club status works — and what Pearl actually requires

• Why Platinum became the tipping point for chasing Pearl

• Strategic use of last-minute bookings and GTY staterooms

• The reality of time, PTO, and cruise frequency

• Whether Pearl status is worth chasing — or just a personal goal

If you’ve ever wondered how far loyalty strategy can really go on Disney Cruise Line, this episode pulls back the curtain.

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with My Path Unwinding Travel

• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store!

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) |

Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DCLDuo #DisneyCruiseLine #CastawayClub #PearlStatus #DCLPearl #CruiseLoyalty #DisneyCruising #FrequentCruiser #CruiseStrategy #DCLTips #DisneyCruisePodcast #CruisePlanning #AdultDisney #CruiseGoals

Sonia and Russell join the DCL Duo Podcast to share their experience cruising Alaska aboard Holland America — and how it compared to their multiple prior sailings with Disney Cruise Line.

After sailing Disney several times, they decided to step outside the Disney bubble for a port-intensive Alaska itinerary, sailing round-trip from Vancouver aboard the Koningsdam. In this episode, they walk us through what surprised them most, what they missed from Disney, and where Holland America truly shines — especially for an Alaska sailing.

We discuss:

• Why they chose Holland America instead of Disney Cruise Line for Alaska

• Booking far in advance and pricing differences

• The “Have It All” package and what it includes

• Embarkation day in Vancouver and sailing aboard the Koningsdam

• Ship design, atmosphere, and onboard demographics

• Food quality, specialty dining, and buffet comparisons

• Entertainment, Music Walk venues, and onboard enrichment talks

• Glacier viewing at Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier

• Ports of call including Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan

• Whether Disney Cruise Line’s premium pricing is worth it for an Alaska cruise

This is a thoughtful, experience-driven comparison from seasoned Disney cruisers who found that Alaska may be the perfect place to try a non-Disney cruise — without giving up an unforgettable vacation.

Listen now and join the conversation!

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with My Path Unwinding Travel

• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store!

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) | Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12).

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DisneyCruiseLine #HollandAmerica #AlaskaCruise #DisneyVsHolland #AlaskaCruising #CruiseComparison #DCLDuo #CruisePodcast #DisneyCruise #HollandAmericaLine #AlaskaTravel #CruiseLife #CruiseReview #Koningsdam #VancouverCruise #EndicottArm #DawesGlacier #Skagway #Juneau #Ketchikan

In this episode of the DCL Duo Podcast, we’re joined by returning guest Shannon to break down her Disney Cruise Line sailing to Norway — an itinerary filled with dramatic scenery, smaller ports, and unforgettable fjord views.

Shannon shares what it was like traveling from the Seattle area to London ahead of embarkation, cruising Norway aboard the Disney Fantasy, and visiting ports such as Haugesund and Olden. We talk about excursion choices, why booking through Disney Cruise Line can offer peace of mind, and how Norway’s terrain and walking demands can impact travelers with mobility considerations.

We also discuss onboard life during a longer European sailing, dining with new friends, why Shannon gravitates toward smaller ports and curated local experiences, and why — despite the physical demands — she says she would absolutelycruise Norway again. If you’re considering a Disney Cruise Line Norway itinerary or wondering whether it’s right for your travel style, this episode offers an honest, experience-based perspective.

Listen now and join the conversation!

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with My Path Unwinding Travel

• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store!

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) | Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DisneyCruiseLine #DCLDuo #DisneyCruise #DisneyFantasy #NorwayCruise #NorwegianFjords #DisneyCruiseEurope #EuropeanCruise #CruisePodcast #DisneyPodcast #CruiseTips #CruiseExcursions #Haugesund #Olden #FjordCruise

Get ready for some holiday magic at sea! In this live episode of the DCL Duo Podcast, we’re joined by Drew and Hayley to talk all about their Very Merrytime Cruise aboard the Disney Fantasy.

We dive into what makes Disney Cruise Line’s Merrytime sailings so special, from festive décor and seasonal entertainment to the overall holiday atmosphere onboard. Drew and Hayley share what stood out on their Disney Fantasy sailing, how the ship transforms for the holidays, and whether a Very Merrytime Cruise is worth adding to your Disney Cruise Line bucket list.

If you’re considering a holiday cruise with Disney — or just love hearing what makes Disney Cruise Line unique — this episode is full of festive fun and firsthand insights.

Listen now and join the conversation!

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with My Path Unwinding Travel

• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store!

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group |

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) | Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | and Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12).

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DisneyCruiseLine #DisneyFantasy #VeryMerrytimeCruise #MerrytimeCruise #DisneyCruising #DisneyPodcast #CruisePodcast #HolidayCruise #ChristmasAtSea #DisneyHoliday #DCL #DisneyLive #CruiseLife #DisneyFans #DCLDuo

In this special bonus episode of the DCL Duo Podcast, we sit down with the chef behind Edna À La Mode Sweets, the brand-new dessert destination aboard Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Destiny.

Edna À La Mode Sweets brings a bold, couture-inspired approach to onboard desserts, blending playful theming with elevated pastry techniques. In this exclusive interview, we talk with the chef responsible for bringing Edna’s vision to life at sea — from creative inspiration and menu development to how storytelling and flavor come together in this all-new sweet shop experience.

If you’re excited about the Disney Destiny, passionate about Disney Cruise Line dining, or simply love behind-the-scenes looks at how Disney creates unforgettable food experiences, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen now and join the conversation!

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with My Path Unwinding Travel

• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store!

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) | Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DCLDuo #DisneyCruiseLine #DisneyDestiny #EdnaALaModeSweets #DisneyDining #DisneyFood #DisneyCruise #CruiseFood #DisneyParksFood #DisneyImagineering #DisneyEats #CruisePodcast #DisneyPodcast #BehindTheScenesDisney #DisneyDesserts

Rob returns to the show with a wonderful deep dive into his family’s European sailing aboard the Disney Fantasy. We walk through his full itinerary from Barcelona to Italy and Sicily, and talk through what it’s like to cruise Europe with three kids and a nine-month-old in tow. From transportation mishaps to breathtaking port days to baby Sam’s first crawl aboard the ship, this is an honest and entertaining look at a port-intensive Mediterranean itinerary. 

Rob shares highlights from:

• A long but beautiful Disney excursion to Cinque Terre from La Spezia

• A private tour in Rome — and the scam attempt he dodged just in time

• Pizza-making for kids in Naples, supported by a memorable crew member known as “Bubbles”

• A DIY beach-club day in Sicily that became one of the most relaxed port days of the trip

• Onboard moments including nursery time, Kids Club experiences, Royal Court Tea, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, and an excellent Palo Brunch

We also discuss flying with an infant, booking adjoining rooms for a family of six, why a European itinerary can be ideal for families wanting to see a lot without changing hotels, and how this experience compared to Rob’s Caribbean sailing. 

Listen now and join the conversation.

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with My Path Unwinding Travel

• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) | Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DisneyCruiseLine #DisneyFantasy #MediterraneanCruise #EuropeCruise #DisneyCruiseReview #FamilyTravel #CinqueTerre #RomeItaly #NaplesItaly #SicilyTravel #BarcelonaTravel #DisneyWithKids #CruisingWithBaby #DCLDuo #PaloBrunch #JackJackDiaperDash #KidsClubDCL #TravelScams #DisneyVacation

Amy joins the DCL Duo to share her family’s first-ever Disney Cruise Line experience — a 4-night sailing aboard the Disney Magic out of Fort Lauderdale. From choosing the right itinerary to preparing her 4-year-old for the adventure, Amy gives us a wonderfully detailed look at what it’s like to cruise Disney for the first time.

In this episode, we talk about her family’s decision process, their surprise concierge upgrade, swimming under Funnel Vision, memorable dining moments at Rapunzel’s Royal Table, a magical encounter with Flynn Rider, their Nassau excursion to Ardastra Wildlife Centre, a full day at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Royal Gathering, Royal Court Royalty Tea, and so much more. 

Whether you’re planning your first Disney Cruise or reminiscing about your own magical moments, Amy’s story captures the heart of what makes Disney Cruise Line so special for families.

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with My Path Unwinding Travel

• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store!

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) | Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DisneyCruiseLine #DisneyMagic #FirstDisneyCruise #ConciergeDisneyCruise #LookoutCay #NassauBahamas #ArdastraWildlife #BibbidiBobbidiBoutique #RapunzelsRoyalTable #DCLDuoPodcast #DisneyCruiseTips #FamilyTravelDisney #DCLMagic #DisneyCruiseReview

On this episode, we’re joined by listener and Patreon supporter Andrea, who just completed her first-ever Disney Cruise — a 7-night Western Caribbean sailing aboard the Disney Treasure. Andrea walks us through what it’s like to plan a multi-generational cruise for 11 people, how her family’s deep Disney roots shaped the trip, and why experiences like Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, the Adventure Tea, trivia victories, and a chance encounter with Captain Mickey made this voyage unforgettable. 

We talk ports (including an excursion in Cozumel that didn’t quite go as planned), staying onboard during Grand Cayman, bobsledding fun in Jamaica, and a perfect beach day at Castaway Cay. Andrea also shares her thoughts on rotational dining, her love of the Coco restaurant experience, and her top-tier meals at Palo and Enchanté. And of course, we dive into her reactions to the Treasure’s shows — especially A Tale of Moana, which floored her entire family. 

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or planning a multi-gen sailing, Andrea’s story paints an honest, joy-filled picture of the Treasure experience.

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with My Path Unwinding Travel

• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store!

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) | Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12).

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DisneyCruiseLine #DisneyTreasure #FirstTimeCruiser #DCLDuo #DisneyCruiseReview #CocoRestaurant #PaloDinner #Enchanté #BibbidiBobbidiBoutique #CastawayCay #DisneyShows #TaleOfMoana #MultiGenTravel #DisneyCruiseTips #CruisePodcast

Step inside the newest bars and lounges aboard Disney Cruise Line’s stunning Disney Destiny as we take you on a deep-dive tour of its headline venues: The Sanctum, De Vil’s, and Cask and Cannon. These imaginative adult spaces each bring bold storytelling to life through themed cocktails, bespoke beverages, and immersive design.

In this episode, we sit down with Disney Cruise Line PR representatives and members of the Food & Beverage team to uncover the creative inspiration, menu development, and behind-the-scenes details shaping these marquee lounges. From the mysterious magic of The Sanctum, to the deliciously wicked world of De Vil’s, to the seafaring swagger of Cask and Cannon, we explore what makes each space a standout on Disney’s newest ship.

Whether you’re planning your first sailing on the Disney Destiny or just excited to learn what’s new onboard, this insider conversation offers an in-depth look at how Disney continues to elevate its bar and lounge concepts with story-driven design and unforgettable flavor profiles.

Listen now and join the conversation!

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with https://mypathunwinding.com/dclduo
• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store: https://dcl-magazine.com

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) | Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12)

Disclaimer:

The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DisneyDestiny #DisneyCruiseLine #TheSanctum #DeVils #CaskAndCannon #DisneyDestinyBars #DisneyDestinyLounges #DCLDuo #DisneyCruise #DisneyCruises #CruisePodcast #DisneyPodcast #DisneyCruiseTips #DisneyCruiseReview #CruiseLife #CruiseVibes #CruiseNews #DisneyFans #DisneyAdults

We’re sharing our full review after spending eight nights aboard Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Destiny. We sailed back-to-back four-night itineraries, beginning with the Maiden Voyage and continuing immediately into the Inaugural Sailing with the first paying guests onboard. In this episode, we break down what those first two sailings were really like, including our early impressions of dining, entertainment, venues, staterooms, onboard experiences, and how the ship felt once guests filled the spaces for the first time.

We’re also discussing what surprised us, what exceeded expectations, and what future guests should know as the Disney Destiny begins her life in the fleet. Join us as we reflect on the highs, the learning curves, and everything in between from our time onboard.

Listen now and join the conversation!

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with My Path Unwinding Travel

• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store!

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) | Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | and Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12).

Disclaimer:

The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DisneyDestiny #DisneyCruiseLine #DCLDuo #DisneyCruise #MaidenVoyage #InauguralSailing #DisneyShips #DisneyDestinyReview #BackToBackCruise #CruiseVlog #DisneyTravel #DCLFans #CruiseReview #DisneyDestinyMaiden #DisneyDestinyInaugural #DisneyDestinyLive #CruiseLiveShow #CruiseNews #DisneyParks #DisneyCreators

Sam is joined by returning guest Alicia, who recently took her first adults-only Disney Cruise Line vacation — a 3-night anniversary sailing aboard the Disney Wish! Alicia breaks down how she and her husband planned their child-free escape, including finding an amazing GTY rate, using points for airfare, and enjoying a surprise accessible aft veranda with an enormous balcony.

Alicia shares what it was like to finally experience the Wish at their own pace — from early access to Quiet Cove and a 2 p.m. champagne tasting on embarkation day, to trivia marathons, live music in The Bayou, adult game shows, and their first Palo Brunch. She also talks through their spa day at Castaway Cay, including how they scored a hugepromotion on cabana massages. And yes — she gives her honest take on Arendelle, Serenity Bay, and whether a kid-free sailing changed her feelings on her favorite ship.

If you’ve ever wondered what a Disney Wish sailing looks like without kids, Alicia’s firsthand experience is filled with tips, surprises, and adult-only magic.

Listen now and join the conversation!

Help Support the Show:

• Book your next Disney Cruise Line vacation with My Path Unwinding Travel

• Join the waitlist for DCL Magazine and use promo code DCLDUO for 10% off at the WDW Magazine store!

Stay Connected with the DCL Duo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Facebook Group

We’re Ranked as a Top Podcast by Feedspot

Top 30 Disney Cruise Line Podcasts (#1) | Top 20 Cruise Podcasts (#2) | Top Disney Podcasts (#4) | Top 20 Disney Cruise Line Influencers (#12)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are our own and do not reflect the views of the Walt Disney Company, Disney Cruise Line or any other travel provider discussed or mentioned.

#DisneyWish #AdultsOnlyCruise #DisneyCruiseLine #PaloBrunch #CastawayCay #SerenityBay #DCLDuo #DisneyCruiseTips #QuietCove #DisneyWishReview #GTYStateroom #DisneyAdults #CruiseVlog #DisneyTravel #WishClass