

The DCL Dude Podcast
Wes Dauer
The DCL Dude Podcast is a show dedicated to all things Disney Cruise Line! We will talk recent DCL news, share travel tips, interview guests, go over the best and worst (ok, mostly best) that DCL has to offer, share trip reports, and hopefully interact with you, the listener!
Follow us on Twitter (@theDCLdude) or like us on Facebook (facebook.com/dcldudepodcast)!
Follow us on Twitter (@theDCLdude) or like us on Facebook (facebook.com/dcldudepodcast)!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 30, 2025 • 53min
Episode 180: "Would You Rather" with Serena from Living By Disney
Serena from the Living By Disney Podcast joins me in this week's episode to play a fun game of "Would You Rather?" A guaranteed spot in shade on the pool deck or a reserved seat in your favorite lounge? Unlimited AquaMouse with no lines or a skip the line pass to meet your favorite characters? These are the hard hitters were taking on in this week's episode! Tune it to hear the choices we made. Also, check out Serena's content: Instagram: @livingbydisney Podcast: Living By Disney Podcast Don't forget to connect with the show on Twitter and Instagram @theDCLdude, or on Facebook at facebook.com/dcldudepodcast. You can also check out my blog at www.thedcldude.com. If you have any ideas for future episodes, I'd love to hear them! Finally, if you're thinking about booking a Disney Cruise, don't go it alone! Send me an email at wes@mickeyworldtravel.com for a FREE quote and find out how to get some onboard credit to spend on your cruise!

Oct 13, 2025 • 57min
Episode 179: Trip Recap! Our Recent 4-Night Cruise on the Wish
Join the adventure as hosts recap their 4-night Bahamian cruise on the Disney Wish! From thrilling park experiences at Walt Disney World to the luxury of their veranda stateroom and the fun of the Hero Zone, every moment is packed with excitement. Discover their impressions of the themed dining experiences, like a lively Arendelle dinner, and share in the drama of a man overboard scare. Relaxation at Castaway Cay and fun deck days round out the journey, making it a memorable cruise for all! Dive into their experiences and tips!

14 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 1h 28min
Episode 178: Sailing the Norwegian Fjords
Join the adventure as two sisters share their magical 8-night cruise through the stunning Norwegian Fjords aboard the Disney Fantasy. Discover their insights on pre-cruise planning, onboard activities, and the scenic ports they explored. From family-friendly hikes at breathtaking glaciers to culinary delights in Haugesund, every moment is packed with fun. Plus, get tips for navigating excursions and making the most of the cruise experience. It's a captivating journey that might just inspire your own travel plans!

11 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 41min
Bonus Episode: DCL Late 2026/Early 2027 Itineraries
Discover the latest Disney Cruise itineraries extending into May 2027, with insights on unique routes and exciting new ports of call, including Porta Plata in the Dominican Republic. Delve into the shifting Southern Caribbean options and the nostalgia of Panama Canal cruises. Learn fascinating stats about DCL, like the surprise of no themed days at sea. The hosts highlight new sailings from Galveston and speculate on future adventures, making planning your next Disney cruise a thrilling endeavor.

Aug 19, 2025 • 59min
Bonus Episode: Aulani Trip Recap (Part 2)
In this bonus episode of the DCL Dude Podcast, Alyssa and I revisit the rest of our recent trip to Hawaii, which covers: Our private tour with Escape Waikiki Tours; Our visit to the Pearl Harbor Memorial; Our afternoon trip to Oahu's north shore; Our trip to Maui and private tour with Local Maui Tours; Our surf lessons with North Shore Oahu Surf School; Our visit to Kualoa Ranch; Our trip to the Big Island and private tour with Big Island Backroad Adventures; Our final rest day at Aulani If you have any questions about Aulani, please feel free to reach out. I hope you enjoy our recap! Don't forget to connect with the show on Twitter and Instagram @theDCLdude, or on Facebook at facebook.com/dcldudepodcast. You can also check out my blog at www.thedcldude.com. If you have any ideas for future episodes, I'd love to hear them! Finally, if you're thinking about booking a Disney Cruise, don't go it alone! Send me an email at wes@mickeyworldtravel.com for a FREE quote and find out how to get some onboard credit to spend on your cruise!

Aug 19, 2025 • 55min
Bonus Episode: Aulani Trip Recap (Part 1)
We're going off-topic in this bonus episode of the DCL Dude Podcast to discuss our recent trip to Hawaii and our stay at Disney's Aulani! We packed A LOT in to our 9-day vacation, so the episode ran longer than expected. For that reason, I've split it into two parts, so I'm releasing two back-to-back bonus episodes that will give you all the details from our recent trip. In part one, you'll hear about: Our planning process; Our stopover at Disneyland on the way to Hawaii; Our first full day at the resort If you have any questions about Aulani, please feel free to reach out. I hope you enjoy our recap! Don't forget to connect with the show on Twitter and Instagram @theDCLdude, or on Facebook at facebook.com/dcldudepodcast. You can also check out my blog at www.thedcldude.com. If you have any ideas for future episodes, I'd love to hear them! Finally, if you're thinking about booking a Disney Cruise, don't go it alone! Send me an email at wes@mickeyworldtravel.com for a FREE quote and find out how to get some onboard credit to spend on your cruise!

Jul 29, 2025 • 49min
Episode 177: Pros and Cons of Back-to-Back Cruises
Tammy Whiting, author of the Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line, shares her expertise on the benefits and drawbacks of back-to-back Disney cruises. She explores logistics like stateroom access and the emotional rollercoaster of disembarking and re-embarking. The conversation highlights exclusive perks, financial advantages, and the camaraderie among passengers on consecutive adventures. Listeners gain insight into maximizing their cruise experiences while discussing the necessary preparations for the next multi-cruise getaway.

Jul 14, 2025 • 55min
Episode 176: Disney Cruise Superlatives
Dive into the enchanting world of Disney Cruise Line as passionate fans share top superlatives for unforgettable experiences! Discover the best shows, dining, and character interactions that make these cruises magical. Enjoy thrilling tales of unique port adventures and thematic lounges, like the Star Wars-inspired hyperspace lounge. Learn about popular onboard activities, from spa services to engaging with beloved characters. Celebrate the holiday spirit with festive events like the Very Merry Time cruise and envision future villain-themed adventures!

Jul 3, 2025 • 34min
Episode 175: DCL News and FAQs!
In this week's episode, I go through some of the recent Disney Cruise announcements and also provide some feedback on a few questions I've received recently. I'm planning to do another Q&A sometime in the near future, so if you have questions you'd like me to answer on the show, feel free to submit those anytime! Otherwise, be on the lookout on my social media accounts for the next Q&A! Happy Independence Day, everyone! Don't forget to connect with the show on Twitter and Instagram @theDCLdude, or on Facebook at facebook.com/dcldudepodcast. You can also check out my new blog at www.thedcldude.com. If you have any ideas for future episodes, I'd love to hear them! Finally, if you're thinking about booking a Disney Cruise, don't go it alone! Send me an email at wes@mickeyworldtravel.com for a FREE quote and find out how to get some onboard credit to spend on your cruise!

May 20, 2025 • 36min
Episode 174: Island Showdown: Castaway Cay vs. Lookout Cay
Discover the ultimate showdown between Disney Cruise Line’s private paradises: Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay. Compare their stunning locations, unique theming, and recreational activities. Explore the serene charm of Castaway Cay versus the vibrant culture and pink sands of Lookout Cay. Uncover the best dining options and amenities each island offers, ensuring your family's beach day is perfect. Tune in for the insights that might just make you want to experience both tropical escapes!


