554 Sailing Norway’s Fjords on the Disney Dream with Joe Cheung!

Looking for the ultimate guide to sailing Europe with Disney Cruise Line? In this episode of the DCL Podcast, Christy is joined by special guest Joe Cheung from the Disney Deciphered podcast to discuss his family’s incredible journey aboard the Disney Dream. Joe shares insider tips and firsthand experiences from their multi-generational vacation exploring the stunning Norwegian Fjords. From exploring historic coastal stops like Stavanger to navigating family excursion logistics, this episode covers everything you need to know about planning a magical Disney Cruise Line itinerary in Norway. Tune in for expert advice, port highlights, and top recommendations for your next European Disney cruise!

Highlights

Guest Intro & Nat Geo Expedition Comparison: Joe Cheung’s recent travel experiences, including a comparison between Disney Cruise Line and an expedition cruise to Iceland and Greenland with National Geographic and Lindblad.

Planning a Multi-Generational Cruise: Booking 18 months in advance for 12 family members spanning three generations (ages 5 to grandparents) across five 5B Deluxe Oceanview Veranda staterooms.

Logistics & Transfers: Travel arrangements through London, transfers to Southampton, boarding procedures, and utilizing guest services for kid privileges and photo packages.

Wildlife & Scenery Differences: How the lush, waterfall-filled scenery of Norway compares to Alaska and Greenland, along with expectations around local wildlife.

Port Guide

Port of Embarkation: Southampton, England.

Port Stop 1 (Haugesund): The group split up to explore options based on interest and mobility needs. Older kids took on an intense troll hike excursion, Joe’s parents enjoyed a local riverboat tour booked independently, and the rest of the family explored the picturesque town, visited local shops (including a yarn store and bookstore), and stopped at a historic church.

Port Stop 2 (Olden): All 12 family members embarked on an excursion to the Briksdal Glacier on a rainy day. While most of the group completed the 45-minute uphill hike past dramatic waterfalls, Joe pre-arranged a private “troll car” to transport his parents directly to the top.

Port Stop 3 (Ålesund): The family explored the town’s mountain overlook featuring 400+ stairs. Four family members (Joe, his wife, sister, and daughter) completed the Via Ferrata rock-climbing route to the summit, while the remaining 8 family members walked up the stairs to meet at the top and explore historic WWII pillboxes.

Port Stop 4 (Stavanger): The group visited Stavanger, exploring its charming historic wooden house district (Gamle Stavanger), local shop lined cobblestone streets, and key regional highlights before wrapping up the fjord cruise itinerary.