As we plan and research further, this section will fill out. In the meantime, here is a basic comparison between Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean taken from our "PassPorter's Cruise Clues: First-Class Tips for Your Disney Cruise Trip" e-book:

This comparison is based on official information published at Royal Caribbean's web site (http://www.royalcaribbean.com) and the experience of many fellow cruisers.

1. Price: A comparison of cruises of the same length, similar stateroom size and class, and similar itineraries 12 months from publication date shows Royal Caribbean and Disney at exactly the same price. Really. No child or infant rates are available based on our research. Sodas carry an extra charge and the "cover charge" restaurants are $20/person rather than $10 at Disney's Palo.

2. Decor: Radiance of the Seas is most comparable with the Disney Magic. Its grand yet understated decor is the best we've seen yet, outside of Disney's. A lot of glass is used in the design scheme--half the ship's exterior is glass--and it is mostly tasteful. Of note is the Centrum, a six-story atrium with one entirely glass wall offering outside views at all times.

3. Staterooms: Room size is a bit on the small side compared to Disney. An inside stateroom is 165 sq. ft. compared to Disney's 184 sq. ft., while a balcony stateroom is 179 sq. ft. compared to Disney's 268 sq. ft. Royal Caribbean's Junior Suite at 293 sq. ft. is more comparable to Disney's verandah staterooms, but at a significantly higher price tag. Decor is attractively understated with muted colors and light woods.

4. Kids: Kids ages 3-12 and teens up to age 17 have programming and special facilities. Youngsters ages 6 months to 3 years can participate in 45-minute playgroup sessions. There's a water slide, splash pool, and outdoor play area. In-room babysitting is available for $8/hour for kids ages 1 and up. Group babysitting is available after the scheduled activities end at 10:00 am and lasts to 1:00 am for ages 3 and up at $4/hour. Kids under 17 get a special rate on the all-you-can-drink soda program--they pay $4/day + 15% tip, while adults pay $6/day + 15% tip. Internet access is available in-room for an extra fee.

5. Food: Food is generally considered as good as or better than Disney. Cruisers dine in the two-level main dining room nightly--reports indicate it is a noisy place. Casual eateries are also available, as are the specialty, extra-fee restaurants. Like Disney, there are no 24-hour food offerings other than room service.

6. Entertainment: Radiance of the Sea's clubby Colony Club has self-leveling pool tables! There's also a cinema with two movies shown each day (perhaps not up to Disney's standards, but at least there are movies, unlike most other cruise lines). The main theater is three stories and features the usual Las Vegas-style shows and cabaret/comedy acts. There are many interesting lounges and retail areas, including a bookstore and a library. Of course, there's a casino, plus two pools (one indoor) and the children's splash pool.

Conclusion: Of all the other cruise lines, we find Royal Caribbean most comparable to Disney--while it falls short in some areas (room size, drinks, restaurants), it shines in others (venues, young child activities, and decor).