Regular cruisers may wonder what's different from the Disney Dream ship, launched barely a year ago. In one word, it's the Aquaduck: the world's first shipboard water coaster that shoots you from the top to the bottom of the ship in less than a minute. Much of the tunnel is clear so views are pretty hard to beat. This exhilarating flume ride stretches 765 feet and spans four decks in height, with water blasts, twists and 'river rapids'.

For out and out luxury, there are two signature royal suites on the Disney Fantasy. The Roy O (pictured) has been designed to embody the glamour of the 1920s and 1930s. A whirlpool bathtub and a private teakwood verandah are just some of the luxuries it provides...

... But unlike the liners of old there is no steerage class. Even the standard rooms have portholes (even if they are virtual!). Pictured here is the The Concierge Suite with verandah. There are 21 of these suites on Decks 10, 11 and 12, each with spacious master bedroom, luxurious living room and two bathrooms as well as concierge services and exclusive access to dedicated areas, including a private sun deck.

As you would expect, children are catered for brilliantly. The Small World Nursery looks after babies and toddlers, and there are areas dedicated to different age groups all the way up to 17. The Oceaneer Lab is for three-to-10-year-olds with lots of games and virtual state-of-the-art Disney characters who can interact in real time with the children. It's all part of Disney's serious efforts in technological advancements or 'imagineering', as they prefer to call it...

... But if you thought Disney cruising was something only for kids to enjoy, think again. Disney has plenty to offer grown-ups, with adult-only areas and experiences. La Piazza bar and lounge (pictured) is part of Europa, an adults' night time entertainment district.

The glamourous adults-only restaurant the Remy offers French-inspired gourmet cuisine on the top deck, courtesy of two award winning chefs. Most things onboard are included as part of the all-inclusive package, but there are two adult-only restaurants where for a bit more money you can enjoy quality cuisine from either Italy or France. It's worth spending the extra $75 (£55) to dine at the Remy. Apparently, whenever Whoopi Goldberg is on board she is a big fan - and you can't get a better recommendation than that!

This adults' relaxing area features a multi-level pool with varying depths and provides a tranquil environment for relaxation and a drink at the poolside bar.

This signature Disney Cruise Line restaurant brings the magic of animation into the dining room, inspired by classic animator's studios and filled with character sketches, film strips and 'paint brush' pillars.

Disney Wishes is the Fantasy's exclusive stage show. The production is held in the 1,340-seat Walt Disney Theatre, complete with full-scale production numbers and special effects.

Drop the children off for an hour or two to go and relax in the luxurious Senses Spa & Salon. There are the usual beauty services on offer including facials and massages including treatments that couples can be done at the same time for a nice romantic experience. If you really want to try something different there is a Chocolate Indulgence Body Treatment where you get smothered in chocolates - but no calories are consumed. For those who want to feel like Cleopatra for 75 minutes you can have 24 carat gold facial for a mere $325 (£200)!

The Disney Fantasy will sail from Port Canaveral, Florida on seven-night Caribbean itineraries that alternate eastern (St. Maarten and St. Thomas) and western (Grand Cayman, Costa Maya, Cozumel). All itineraries will include a stop at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. Visit disneycruise.com for details. Rates for a seven-night Caribbean cruise on the Disney Fantasy start at £692 per person for a standard stateroom, based on double occupancy.

With its magnificent three-deck atrium, cascading chandelier, sweeping grand staircase and Art Nouveau-inspired details, you can't help but think of the bygone 'golden' age of old cruise liners (think of the film Titanic when Rose descends the stairs and Jack takes her hand). Most of the decoration is surprisingly tasteful, with a few hints of Disney characters here and there. As guests come aboard, their names (group or individual depending on preference) are "announced" to the room - which surely makes you feel like you have well and truly arrived.