This is a classic overthinking trap (in a good way).
Honestly… kids that age will not care at all if the ship is brand new or not. To them it’s just “Disney + pools + characters + ice cream”. Fantasy will feel just as magical.
The new ship is more for you than for them.
For a first cruise, I’d actually lean Fantasy:
Proven ship, everything runs smoothly
$1K cheaper (that’s a lot you can spend on excursions or just save)
Less risk of first-year hiccups
Destiny will be shiny and new, but there’s always a chance of small issues early on.
Also agree with your instinct… 5 nights is the right call. 3–4 nights can feel rushed, especially with kids.
April vs May won’t make a huge difference, maybe slightly nicer weather in May but nothing major.
If it were me, I’d take the $1K savings and go Fantasy without overthinking it.
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