What are fish extenders on a Disney Cruise? You may not be aware of the term if you’ve never been on a Disney cruise. Some cruisers at Disney started the tradition of Fish extenders. If you’ve been on a Disney Cruise, you’ve likely seen these hanging on doors, filled with presents. If you haven’t, this article will help you know more about them and how they work.
History of Fish Extenders on Disney Cruise
So, what are these things called fish extenders, and why are they called that? It is a long piece of fabric hung from the metallic fish figurines on doors at Disney Cruises. This is exactly the reason why they’re called fish extenders, because they hang from the fish figures.
Some folks started the tradition of fish extenders back in 2005 at Disney Magic. During their cruise to Panama, the group decided to exchange gifts with others. The primary purpose was to help everyone get to know each other better.
The crew members use these figures to pass information on to the guests. But then it turned out to be a place for hanging fabrics and exchanging gifts. You can also get to know other guests through a gift exchange. It’s not an official Disney tradition, but travelers have brought it together. The tradition has passed on and still continues.
How Do Fish Extenders on Disney Cruises Work?
The primary purpose of a fish extender is to create a bond between people. Even though passengers initiated this tradition, exchanging gifts is an essential part of the Disney Cruise. Almost like a secret Santa experience?
Here’s how it works generally:
- If you want to exchange gifts, you must join a group on Facebook or in other communities, like Disboard.
- You can sign up for these groups and get to know other travelers before your cruise.
- Certain groups have themes that require you to bring gifts for the said theme.
- Then, the gift exchange takes place during the cruise.
- You can leave the gifts on the fish extenders of other cabins. You’ll also find gifts in your fish extender.
Popular Fish Extender Types
At first, the fish extenders were mostly custom-made, combining pieces of fabric to form a long fabric with pockets to fill with gifts. Then, after the tradition became popular, fish extenders started selling at markets. Now you will be able to easily find them online or in stores.
Some of the popular types include:
- The most popular type of fish extender is the vertical one, which is composed of different fabrics and has pockets for gifts. The number of pockets is the same as the number of people in the cabin. It is customized with Disney themes and guest names.
- Small pouches or tote bags are also used for this purpose, as they are easier to carry and reusable. There might be one for each member of the cabin.
- Sometimes, the fish extenders are character-themed, featuring your favorite Disney characters, such as Mickey, Moana, Marvel, Star Wars, and so on.
Image by GTS Productions
Gift Ideas for Fish Extender on Disney Cruises
- Kids can enjoy Disney-themed coloring books, plush toys, glow sticks, finger puppets, and stickers.
- Themed toothbrushes, Play-Doh, and themed water bottles.
- Phone stands, journals, tote bags, and face masks.
- Magnetic clips, fridge magnets, and souvenirs.
- Keychains, mini board games, and door decorations are also popular.
You can join the fish extender gift-sharing groups on Disboard or through Facebook. Passengers on DisBoards refer to some other items as their favorites. Some of them include:
- Embroidered laundry bag
- Themed magnets, coasters, and Christmas tree decorations
- Candies
- Homemade gifts
- Card games
- Photo frames
Difference Between Pixie Dust and Fish Extenders
- The main difference between pixie dust and fish extenders is that the latter is organized prior to cruising, while the former is random.
- The concept remains the same, but pixie dust isn’t reciprocal, whereas fish extenders are.
- Guests usually give gifts without expectations when it comes to pixie dust, while return gifts are expected for fish extenders.
- Pixie dust doesn’t require any groups, whereas fish extenders require groups for gift exchange.
- Usually, smaller gifts are given in the case of pixie dust, whereas more advanced gifts are given to fish extenders.
All Your Questions Answered!
Does every Disney cruise ship have fish extenders?
Every ship has a metallic fish figure at the door of every stateroom, whereas a fish extender is not officially part of Disney.
When are gifts exchanged?
Gifts are exchanged at any time during the cruise, typically during the first and second days.
How many gifts do you give for a fish extender?
The usual rule is to give one gift to each member of the group during your cruise.
What is the average cost of a fish extender?
Fish extenders normally cost $20–30, and up to $50 for customized options. You can always DIY to save money.
Where to buy fish extenders?
Fish extenders are widely available on Etsy and Amazon. You can also look for them at local markets.
Are fish extenders really worth it?
Some people enjoy the tradition and the fact that they receive gifts, too. But the majority hate the hassle.
