Missing The Magic

Michelle and Joe pull back the velvet rope on what really makes a Disney Treasure cruise hit—or miss—and it’s not the itinerary, it’s the transformation. One minute it’s “meh” with low expectations and decision-paralysis (so hyped they barely do anything at first), and the next it’s an all-out conversion story where they finally crack the code: stop chasing everything, start choosing what actually feels good. Then the real stars walk onstage—Mario, the head waiter who goes from “iffy first night” to full-on dinner magician and personal food guide, and Veronica, the photographer who turns a stiff photo line into a fun, hype session so good she’s practically hunting them down for round two. 
 
And just when you think it’s only heartfelt shout-outs, the episode swerves into a late-night, blink-and-you-miss-it kind of magic: a live band that playfully traps them for “just one more song,” and a Haunted Mansion Parlor vibe that isn’t a bar so much as a living show—with Jimmy and Philip turning guests into co-stars until the whole place feels like a secret club that anyone can join if they’re willing to lean in. The kicker? They loved it enough to drop a deposit and book the next cruise fast—because even with cheaper lines out there, they’re chasing that same lightning-in-a-bottle feeling… while already worrying the next, shorter sailing (and a different ship) might not bring the same kind of after-dark chaos and community. 

In this no-holds-barred cruise edition of Missing the Magic, Michelle and Joe break down their recent experience aboard a Disney cruise with their signature blend of optimism and tough love. Michelle brings the pixie dust, Joe brings the straight talk, and together they tackle everything from Disney’s confusing feedback system to overcrowded theaters, long dinner lines, accessibility concerns, and an adult-only area that was anything but relaxing.
But it’s not all grumbling—there are still moments of magic, standout cast members, and helpful tips for navigating the chaos. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a Disney veteran, this episode offers honest commentary, a few laughs, and practical takeaways to help you set expectations and get the most out of your next voyage. If you’ve ever thought, “This could’ve been better,” you’re not alone—and you’re in good company.

Hosts Michelle (the pixie-dust optimist) and Joe (the grumpy realist) take you on a brisk, honest walkthrough of a Disney cruise ship — from the Aladdin-themed Grand Atrium and iconic artwork to cozy lounges like Scat Cat and the Skipper Society.They share highlights, small disappointments (like the crowded Quiet Cove and limited shopping), practical tips for coffee, excursions and reservations, and quick notes on spas, pools, and onboard entertainment to help you get more magic and fewer hassles on your next trip.

Michelle and Joe take a deep dive into the Haunted Mansion Parlor aboard the Disney Treasure, exploring its nautical Haunted Mansion storyline, standout effects (like the aquarium and changing portraits), and the themed drinks and merch that made the room a must-see.
They highlight the immersive bartenders (especially Himmi and Philip), the interactive shows that play over an hour, photo ops, and tips for getting the best experience—sit at the bar, bring your MagicBand Plus, and plan to go during the quieter evening window.
Warnings and practical notes: the space is small and can be crowded, has strobe-like lighting that can trigger seizures, drinks and souvenirs are pricey, and some items are limited or sold with quirks. Overall, the parlor was the cruise highlight for the hosts.

It’s Castaway Cay day on the Disney Fantasy, and things don’t go quite like the brochure. In this episode, we talk about our “5K” experience on the island (heavy on the quotation marks), earning a very plastic medal, and trying to find our happy place on the adults-only Serenity Bay beach. From shallow, seagrassy water to crowded chairs and long walks for a decent float, we share the good, the bad, and the funny of Disney’s private island while still finding those little magical moments that make it worth the sunscreen.
 
Then it’s back to reality as we disembark and trade cruise decks for train tracks on the long Amtrak ride home. We compare Disney’s polished service with the very… different vibe of the train, talk about cranky fellow travelers, and reflect on how, in the end, it’s the people—both cast members and fellow guests—who really make the magic, even when the logistics don’t.

Join husband-and-wife hosts Michelle and Joe on Day Six of their Disney cruise as they recap a relaxing sea day filled with a sold-out Moana stage show, a Haunted Mansion scavenger hunt, bingo wins and quiet adult-only deck discoveries.They share practical travel tips (vacuum bags = lifesaver), sweet moments with crew and fellow guests, and honest reactions — equal parts cheer for Disney magic and critiques when things miss the mark.Listen for packing hacks, character show impressions, onboard dining highlights, and plans for their island stop and travel home.

Missing the Magic hosts Michelle and Joe share a relaxed day-five cruise update: a canceled Tortola excursion, lounging at the Quiet Cove pool deck, and lots of new friends and dining camaraderie.Highlights include poolside chats, the Haunted Mansion lounge and bartenders, an Indiana Jones comedy show, a standout singer, and a sweet moment giving Star Wars ducks to kids.Practical tips cover how excursion cancellations and waitlists work, Quiet Cove timing, and why sitting at the Haunted Mansion bar is a must. More recaps to come as the cruise continues.

Michelle and Joe recap day four of their Disney cruise: a St. Thomas shore excursion with narrow, winding roads, hot sun, local vendors, and a notable accessibility annoyance when disembarking.They also share pirate night festivities, character photos, rum-flavored treats, and a calm, near-empty Haunted Mansion experience — honest takeaways and travel tips with their trademark mix of cheer and critique.

Michelle and Joe recap Day Three of their Halloween-themed cruise: Haunted Mansion PhotoPass shoots, disco bingo with a snowball jackpot, and arts-and-crafts for adults.They talk about crowded decks, a chaotic karaoke, a fun dinner with tablemates, costume parties, trick-or-treating, and giving away Spider-Man ears and 3D-printed surprises.The episode mixes warm laughs and honest critiques as they wrap the night at Scat Cat, share pixie-dusted moments, and look ahead to a St. Thomas excursion.

We battled a 24‑hour train delay to reach Cape Canaveral, then boarded the ship early—only to run into luggage hiccups, pushed crowds, cramped elevators, and mixed service moments. Highlights include great food at Marceline Market, a thoughtful cast member helping with mobility, and a peek into the Haunted Mansion lounge and Periscope Club.Despite congestion and a few annoyances, we settled into our cabin, met friendly neighbors, and teased upcoming episodes on our Amtrak adventure and an inspiring interview with Preston. Short, honest takes and travel tips shape this first-day recap.