cheapest disney cruise time

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When is the Cheapest Time to go on a Disney Cruise?

We are proud to announce The Park Prodigy is officially booking Disney Cruises and we have the best time to book a Disney Cruise  in our first every Disney Cruise Line (DCL) guide! While we are new to cruise line bookings, we are not new to the DCL game. I am a happy member of the Castaway Club and cruising with Disney is the only way you’ll catch me on a boat in the middle of the ocean. It’s true when they say there’s no cruise like a Disney cruise! But it’s also true that Disney Cruises are more expensive than other cruise lines. So I’m here to tell you when is the  cheapest time to go on a Disney cruise . 

We hope you find this post helpful! And if you are planning a trip to Disney World be sure to check out our other FREE vacation planning tools. Our goal at The Park Prodigy has always been to help you save time on your next vacation and find the cheapest Walt Disney World vacation packages!

SPECIAL NOTE: If you’re looking for the best time to visit Disney World  check out our Disney Crowd calendar!

 Disney World Crowd Calendar

What is the Cheapest Month for Disney Cruise?

If there is one thing to know about taking a Disney Cruise it is that it’s going to be expensive no matter how you try and spin it. But don’t worry! There are still plenty of ways to save money and enjoy a Disney Cruise Line vacation . We are going to walk you through the money saving process step by step  The first step is to find the  cheapest month for Disney cruise . While cheap is the relative term, there are some months that are less expensive than others. I have been on two Disney cruises so far and in both instances, I have found the cheapest time to go on Disney Cruise  is in September.

The main reason September is the cheapest time to do a Disney Cruise  is because of the weather. September is historically the start of hurricane season in the Atlantic and this means more delays and potential cancellations. So if a cruise does need to be canceled and is unable to be rebooked, it’s less money lost from the company. While this is the  cheapest time of year for Disney Cruises with a Caribbean or Bahama sailing we do find March, April & May are the most affordable months for Mediterranean sailing. The Northern Europe D isney Cruise cheapest time to go  is typically May and October. 

Other Months When Disney Cruises are Cheaper

• January & early February : If you can avoid major holidays, this is a great option to trade bitter winters for sunny island shores while taking advantage of lower than normal prices.
• May:  While May isn’t the  cheapest time to take a Disney Cruise , you can take advantage of off-peak travel and secure lower than average flights.
• Early November & early December:  Similar to January, if you’re flexible with your travel dates and can avoid any major holidays, there are more affordable options to sail with Disney these months.

Related Post: How Much Does a Disney Crusie Cost Per Person?

What Months are Expensive for Disney Cruises?

The most expensive months to book a Disney Cruise will be April, June – August, and the Holiday Season between November and December. Similar to Walt Disney World or Disneyland park tickets, Disney Cruises typically follow the travel pricing model. This is when dates fluctuate between more or less expensive based on how busy they think the cruise will be. They typically estimate capacity on the American school and holiday schedule! If you want to find the  cheapest time to book Disney Cruise , you can check out our free Disney World Crowd Calendar . The lower the park tickets, the lower the cruise line prices will be!

Are Christmas Cruises More Expensive?

• Yes! DCL is known for their specialty themed cruise. The Very Merrytime Cruises are some of the most expensive cruise options Disney offers. Followed only by the Halloween on the High Seas cruises during the months of September and October.

Something to keep in mind when planning your Disney Cruise is what’s happening in the parks. Our ideal vacation would be to book your cruise in early September for the lower rates while also saving money on park events like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Or you can book your sailing in early November and plan to attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party .

Related Post: Halloween Disney Cruise 

When is the Best Time to Book a Disney Cruise?

To put it simply, the  best time to buy Disney Cruise  is as soon as the cruise is able to be booked. The thing about most cruise lines is that the closer to the cruise date, the more expensive the rooms become. Sometimes you can find a cheap room last minute. But this is Disney Cruise Line we are talking about, it’s one of the most sought after cruises in the business. This means that the likelihood of finding a room last minute is not as easy as some other cruise lines. So if you’re looking to book the cheapest Disney Cruise dates , book as soon as you can! Like most Disney vacations , you don’t have to pay your cruise in full. You’ll only need to deposit 20% of your cruise fare upon booking. This is a great options to pay your cruise over time when booking early. 

How far in Advance can I Book a Disney Cruise?

• New sail dates are available to book 18 months in advance. You can book a cruise anywhere from that 18 month mark all the way until 3 days before your cruise. We recommend booking as soon as possible but no later than 75 days before the cruise. This is because the 75 day mark is when all cruisers will be able to book reservation dining , experiences, and port excursions. If you book after that threshold, you may not be able to fully experience everything you want to do on the ship or at port!

When looking for the  best time to buy Disney Cruise , try to know what dates you’re looking for. Like we mentioned earlier, the  cheapest time to go on a Disney Cruise  will be in the month of September. So if you know you want to book a cruise for September of 2025, be ready to book March 2024! If you don’t plan that far ahead you can still find some of the  least expensive Disney Cruises . Disney bases stateroom rates off of availability. This means that if your ship still has plenty of rooms available, you can still grab a good rate. 

Related Post: Disney’s Newest to Oldest Cruise Ship

Tips & Tricks for Finding the Cheapest Time to go on a Disney Cruise

Now that you know the  cheapest time to Disney Cruise , let me give you some of my best tips and tricks that will help you save the most money on your cruise. Some of these tips are just summaries of the information above. But I’ve also included some tips based off of my own cruising experience and from speaking with a current Castaway club member that I think have made my dollars stretch a little farther.

Special Note: The Park Prodigy is providing a $100 Disney Gift Card to any family who books their Disney cruise through our small business!

Choose an Off-Peak Time to go on a Disney Cruise

Prices are different for weekday vs. weekend sailings, book early, book with a travel agent like the park prodigy, choose the later dining time, take a shorter cruise, choose to stay in an inside cabin, check for special offers, deals, and promotions.

• In the Disney world, off-peak means non popular travel times. A great way to travel during off-peak travel times is to travel in between major holidays or school breaks. Since Disney knows that there will be less guests willing to take time off work or school in between holidays and breaks, prices will be lower to entice you into booking those time frames. So if you have a flexible work/school schedule, off-peak travel times will be the best time to find the  cheapest time to cruise Disney .
• Similar to off-peak travel but on a smaller scale! If you are departing or embarking on a cruise scheduled on a Saturday or Sunday, you will typically be spending more than a cruise scheduled on a Monday – Friday. Both cruises I have been on have been a 4 night Monday-Friday sailing and have been the cheapest Disney Cruises in the month of September . This is typically the first full week following Labor Day.
• Like I stated above, Disney Cruise Line bases their stateroom price off of two major factors. Stateroom availability and estimated demand for rooms. The  best time to book a Disney Cruise  is the moment it goes on sale. This is typically about 18 months in advance. If you are able to book this early, you will pay the least amount of money for your room no matter when your sail date is! Simply because of the percentage of available staterooms on the ship. The higher the capacity, the higher the price.
• Booking with a travel agent will be the closest way you can get any type of “sale” on a Disney Cruise. Travel agents can have access to discounts, on board credit deals with the cruise line, or promotional offers that can save you money on your cruise! If you’re interested in getting a free quote from The Park Prodigy on your next Disney Cruise, simply fill out our free quote form and we would love to help you start planning your magical getaway!
• Disney Cruise Line is the only cruise line that offers rotational dining. Many people dislike this type of dining but I love it for many reasons, but mostly because I think it saves you more money! With rotational dining you are assigned one of two dining times, either 5:45pm or 8:00PM. The later dining time is where the savings come. Having a late dinner offers you two money saving advantages, more time to take advantage of other restaurants, room service, or snacking stations between lunch and dinner. And the second advantage is being able to eat more for dinner. Both of these allows you to eat more for the price you paid for the inclusive dining!
• This goes without saying, but the  least expensive Disney Cruise  will be the shortest one. Since you’re paying a “per day” price for you cruise, the least amount of days spent onboard your ship means the least amount of money you’re spending on the vacation. I will say this regarding short cruises, while they may be attractive because of the lower price tag, I feel they are in the end a waste of money. The price per day is still the same, you’re just paying for less days onboard the ship. There are 2 night cruises available with DCL. But 2 days is not enough time to even eat at all 3 restaurants, see all 3 broadway style shows, or actually enjoy a vacation. So if you’re looking to save money , go for longer and eat more!
• All Disney ships have 4 stateroom categories. From least to most expensive there is the Inside, Oceanview, Verandah, and Concierge. Both cruises I’ve taken have been on the verandah level and I think it’s the most bang for your buck. This is completely options and up to you! The cheapest cabin on any Disney Cruise will be the inside cabin. I personally think it’s money well spent to have your own private balcony and enjoy your vacation as much as you can. Inside cabins are extremely small and can be claustrophobic.
• From time to time Disney Cruise Line will run limited-time promotions for specific sailing dates, departure ports, cabin types, or even residents of particular states or countries. But these promotions are rare and don’t last long! Of the Disney cruise deals to choose from, you may be able to find one that meets your needs and budget. Disney Cruise Line frequently offers special discounts on cruises for Florida residents, US military members, Castaway Club members, and Disney Vacation Club members.

Related Post: Disney Cruise for Adults

Cheapest Time to go on a Disney Cruise FAQ

Q: Does Disney cruise ever go on sale?

A: Yes, Disney Cruises do go on sale! It is rare and hard to come by, but when there is a sale it’s best to book as soon as you can! Sales with Disney Cruise Line are extremely limited to who, when, and what sailings the sale will apply to so make sure to read the fine print!

Q: Is it cheaper to book a Disney cruise last minute?

A: No, the best way to get a cheap price for a stateroom on a Disney Cruise is to book as early as you can. DCL bases their stateroom price off of two major factors. Stateroom availability and estimated demand for rooms. The  best time to book a Disney Cruise  is the moment it goes on sale.

Q: Do Disney cruises get cheaper closer to the date?

A: No, in fact it’s quite the opposite! Disney Cruise Line prices will be the cheapest as soon as a room is available to book. The longer you wait, the more rooms get booked on the cruise. This means that the remaining available rooms will be more expensive since the remainder of the rooms will be a commodity rather than trying to get the rooms booked.

Q: Do Disney Cruises sell out?

A: Yes! Most Disney Cruises will sell out very quickly. Especially if you’re looking to travel during a high travel season or on a specific themed holiday or event cruise. If you are looking to book Star Wars, Pixar, or Holiday cruises, you have to know exactly when your travel date will go on sale.

When is The Best Time to Visit Disney World?

Our   Disney  World Crowd Calendar  is the best tool to help you get the most out of your time in the parks. We break down park crowds, park hours of operation, ticket prices, and average temperature. We also break down   the best time to visit Disney World   based on specific times of the year and special events.

Are You Ready to Plan Your Next Disney World Trip?

Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World? Be sure to speak with a   Disney World Travel Agent   for the most recent deals and promotions. The Park Prodigy will provide a   Free Quote   for all  Disney World Vacation Packages .  The Park Prodigy can also help you save up to $20 per ticket when purchasing your   Walt Disney World Tickets ,  and we offer promotional discounts for special events such as   Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Tickets   and   Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets .

Don’t forget to check out our wonderful friends over at  Theme Park Today ,  as well!

Who We Recommend

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* Your magic rewards program points are automatically calculated into all theme park ticket prices!

Kurt Gillman

Kurt is a former Disneyland Cast Member and seasoned explorer and is your trusted guide to the world of theme park travel. With countless visits to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Tokyo Disneyland, and even aboard the Disney Cruise Line, Kurt's expertise and passion make him the perfect companion for your enchanting adventures. As the Multi-Media Manager, Content Creator and Writer for The Park Prodigy, Kurt hopes his experience and knowledge of the theme park industry can not only save people money, but give them the stress free vacation of their dreams. If he isn’t found trying the newest treats in Disneyland, Kurt enjoys relaxing at home with his dog Sam and playing video games with friends in his free time.

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Disney Cruise Discounts and Deals

LAST UPDATE: 3/27/24

Disney Cruise discounts can be hard to find, but this is the place to find them! Listed below is every known deal, offer, coupon, onboard credit or discount available for Disney Cruise Line (DCL), plus lots of FREE information about how to save money on a Disney cruise!

Easy Ways to Save on Your Disney Cruise

Onboard credit.

• New! Last-Minute Restricted Stateroom Discounts

Onboard Booking Discount

• New! Discounts for Florida Residents
• New! Discounts for Military
• Discounts for Canadian Residents
• Discounts for European Residents
• Discounts for Annual Passholders
• Discounts for Southern California Residents
• Discounts for UK and Ireland Residents
• Discounts for Disney Visa Cardholders
• Discounts for Disney Vacation Club Members

Group Incentives

Costco rebates, travelocity deals on disney cruises, expedia deals on disney cruises, other useful disney cruise line information pages:.

• For tips and tricks that will help you plan your cruise , visit the Planning Tips & Tricks for Disney Cruises page .
• For advice that will help you save time and get the most out of your cruise once you are onboard , visit the DCL Onboard Advice page .
• For advice that will help you with excursions, tours and activities while in port, visit the Tips & Discounts for Port Excursions page .

In our opinion,  you should always book a Disney cruise with a third-party travel agency or site that provides a bonus or discount . The extra onboard credit or discount is effectively FREE money. The primary question is whether you prefer to handle your bookings directly ( self-service ), or work with a personal agent ( full-service ). They’re both good options and they both offer essentially similar savings: one via their own extra-discounted fares and the other via FREE onboard credit. 

Booking a Disney Cruise With a Self-Service Site

Our pick for self-service booking is Undercover Tourist . We’ve recommended them for more than a decade as a fantastic source for tickets, but they also have impressive deals on Disney cruises. Unlike other self-booking options like Expedia or Priceline, Undercover Tourist adds an additional discount over and above any special pricing Disney offers (like restricted guarantee , Military , or Florida resident rates)! We know of no other site that adds their own discounts to the baseline fare for Disney cruises. Occasionally one of the big online travel sites will do a limited-time small onboard credit or in-room gift, but Undercover Tourist offers extra discounts , on every Disney cruise, every day. Undercover Tourist further guarantees to MouseSavers readers that you will always get their lowest possible prices when booking through our links here and through our monthly newsletter and Hot Deals emails.

Keep in mind that this is a self-service option , for people who know exactly what cruise they want to take, what stateroom, how dining works, etc. If you like to handle your own bookings directly, Undercover Tourist is a great choice. If you would like to have a personal agent who can help guide you through the decision process and be available to answer questions, then the full-service approach will be a better fit.

• Check out Undercover Tourist’s discounted cruise rates for Disney Cruise Lines ! Undercover Tourist guarantees MouseSavers readers get their lowest rates!

Booking a Disney Cruise With a Full-Service Agent

The benefits of using a top travel agent are significant, both in convenience and price. First off, the best travel agents give you onboard credit, which is effectively FREE money, since the cruise fare isn’t any higher than if you booked through Disney. Furthermore, Disney Cruise Line has lots of confusing options involving tradeoffs that aren’t always clear. Using an experienced travel agent is like getting a FREE expert who knows everything about the Disney Cruise Line and is happy to walk you through the process and offer advice.

The travel agency we personally recommend here on MouseSavers.com, Small World Vacations , has some of the most experienced agents in the industry . The agents who handle cruise bookings for Small World have been on multiple Disney cruises, and know a truly astonishing amount about all four ships, the various Disney ports of call and all the common itineraries (and many uncommon ones). Many of them are Platinum members of Disney’s Castaway Club, meaning that they have personally been on 10 or more Disney cruises! They each have a direct phone number and email address they give out to their clients, so you can email them questions or requests any time.

Small World Vacations offers an onboard credit of up to $1,000 when you book a Disney Cruise with them. (Credit depends on your total cruise fare; the minimum fare to get credit is $1000.) Your onboard credit is good toward anything you can charge to your room, such as spa treatments, special dining, shore excursions or even your bar tab! Plus, this onboard credit offer is on top of any other discounts for which you may qualify (like restricted guarantee , Military , or Florida resident rates). And perhaps most importantly, the Small World Vacations agents know how to maximize value by making use of tricks like secret porthole rooms , secret verandah rooms , secret connecting rooms , and other clever strategies.

We pretty rarely encounter a deal that qualifies as a “no brainer,” but this is absolutely one, because it’s effectively FREE money . Small World Vacations’ fares are exactly the same as Disney’s; there are no other hidden markups or extra fees. The onboard credit is a bonus you won’t get booking with Disney.

Finally, if you’re going on a Disney cruise, be sure you take advantage of the onboard booking discount and list Small World Vacations as your preferred travel agent (or transfer the booking to Small World Vacations after your cruise is over), because it’s an essentially risk-free way to get significant discounts from Disney plus onboard credit from Small World Vacations in one fell swoop on a future cruise.

If you have any questions about onboard booking, email your questions directly to Small World Vacations at [email protected] before you leave on your cruise, and mention that you heard about onboard booking on MouseSavers.com. In our experience, the travel agents at Small World Vacations are great at finding the best fares. They know all the tricks that will save you money, and they know the Disney Cruise Line inside and out. We’re confident that once you work with a really great travel agent, you’ll never want to book a cruise any other way.

• Learn more about the Small World Vacations onboard credit offer and request a price quote for your Disney cruise .
• Small World Vacations gives you full service , including a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number, and we recommend them wholeheartedly ! Best of all, it costs you nothing to use them, PLUS they give you FREE onboard credit for any Disney Cruise Line booking of over $1000 total fare!

Onboard credit is cash value linked to your stateroom account on the ship, which you can spend by using your room key to pay for pretty much anything on the ship or on Castaway Cay. Onboard credit can be used for merchandise, adult beverages, bottled water, spa treatments, shore excursions, Palo, Remy, Palo Steakhouse or Enchanté meals, and other onboard activities, or even applied to gratuities for your servers and stateroom attendant.

Small World Vacations Onboard Credit

The travel agency we personally recommend here on MouseSavers.com, Small World Vacations , offers an onboard credit of $50 – $1000 when you book through them. (Credit depends on your total cruise fare; the minimum fare to get credit is $1000.) To learn more, visit the Small World Vacations website , where you can see full details about the onboard credit offer and request a quote on your cruise vacation .

Last-Minute Restricted Stateroom Discounts

Restricted Guarantee fares, when offered, are a great way to save if you are flexible about your stateroom location and willing to book “last minute,” usually meaning 21-75 days prior to departure. The savings can be very large, but you won’t know your exact stateroom at booking time. Disney guarantees you will get at least the stateroom type specified, and you could get assigned a higher level. You usually will get an actual stateroom assignment about 14 days before embarkation, but it could be assigned as late as the embarkation day.

There are complicated rules for Restricted Guarantee bookings ; be sure to read them if you’re not already familiar with them. The “Restricted Guarantee” room categories are offered on select sailings. The categories are:

• Guaranteed Inside Stateroom with Restrictions (category IGT) – Guarantees an inside or better stateroom (minimum category 11C)
• Guaranteed Oceanview Stateroom with Restrictions (category OGT) – Guarantees an oceanview or better stateroom (minimum category 9D)
• Guaranteed Verandah Stateroom with Restrictions (category VGT) – Guarantees a verandah or better stateroom (minimum category 7A)

New! As of March 27, 2024, the following cruises had availability in the Restricted Guarantee categories . Prices given are lowest available fares for a single stateroom, in US dollars, including taxes, fees and port expenses, rounded to the nearest dollar. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise.

General Notes:

• A single guest gets charged essentially the same price as two guests. (Cruises are generally priced for a minimum of two guests per cabin.)
• 5-passenger rooms are not available with this discount .
• These discounts come and go as room inventory for a cruise changes. If you check for one and it doesn’t come up, it may come back. It’s worth checking back a few times over the next day or two to see if the discount becomes available again.
• If a price isn’t listed, that doesn’t mean the category is completely sold out , just that it isn’t available with this discount.

Select number of guests to see total sailing price (for one stateroom):

• If you are interested in booking one of these special restricted last-minute rates , we recommend either Small World Vacations or Undercover Tourist . We have worked with both companies for over 15 years and can recommend them wholeheartedly. It’s really a question of whether you prefer full-service booking or self booking. These staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.
• Small World Vacations is a full service agency, offering a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number. It costs you nothing to use them, PLUS their FREE onboard credit offer applies to these special fares (the total cruise fare for the stateroom must be at least $1000 to get their onboard credit). 
• Undercover Tourist is a self-service booking site similar to Expedia or Priceline, but with years of focus on the Disney travel market. They offer the special rates mentioned above PLUS they add their own discounts. 

Important details you need to know about Restricted Guarantee fares:

• Can be combined with the Small World Vacations onboard credit offer as well as Undercover Tourist’s own bonus discounts.
• Cannot be combined with any other Disney discount or promotional offers.
• The specific stateroom is assigned by Disney, generally within a week of cruise departure. You cannot select a stateroom number or make special requests as to stateroom location.
• If you book two or more Restricted Guarantee staterooms, there is no way to ensure that they are near each other, or even on the same deck. Disney will put the rooms as close together as they can, but sometimes they just don’t have any rooms left that are near each other.
• Applies to new bookings only. Existing reservations cannot be modified to these new categories.
• Full payment is due at time of booking. Booking holds are not permitted.
• Reservation is non-refundable . (This only applies to situations where you cancel the cruise. If Disney cancels the cruise, for example because of pandemic restrictions, you will get a refund.)
• Reservation and applied payment are non-transferable .
• Full legal names and birthdates for all stateroom occupants are required at time of booking.
• Name changes after booking are not allowed .
• Sail date, stateroom category and cruise itinerary changes are not allowed .
• You can book a maximum of four people per stateroom on a Restricted Guarantee booking.
• There is typically more availability for three or fewer guests per room. All Disney Cruise staterooms can hold three guests, but only some can hold four.
• If you’re looking for these cruise fares on Disney’s web site, look for fares labeled “Guaranteed Inside Stateroom with Restrictions” or similar for Oceanview or Verandah. The key words are “…with restrictions.”

The one major change that you can make after booking: additional guests can be added to a stateroom, subject to space restrictions. Restrictions and booking rules are subject to change.

If you are going on a Disney cruise and think there is any chance you or a friend or relative may want to go on another Disney cruise in the next 24 months, be sure to book a future cruise while you are still onboard the ship . Disney has one of the most generous onboard booking programs in the cruise industry, and it’s a great way to get a discount and lower deposit on a future Disney cruise. When you book a future cruise while still onboard the ship you get all of the following benefits:

• A 10% discount on the final cruise fare (with some blackout dates ; see below). Does not apply to Concierge bookings.
• A lower deposit requirement of only 10% on 7+ night cruises (regular deposit requirement is 20%). Does not apply to Concierge bookings.
• If you booked your current cruise with Small World Vacations and also use them as your agent for the future cruise , you’ll also get half their normal onboard credit . (Note that if you didn’t book your current cruise with Small World Vacations, the onboard booking agents may not let you add Small World as your agent while onboard. In that case, you would have to transfer your booking to Small World after you get home, but you would still be eligible for half their normal credit.)

You can book either a specific cruise or a “placeholder” cruise. A placeholder lets you make a booking without picking a specific cruise. It can be associated with a specific cruise later, after you get home and decide. To book a specific cruise onboard, you put down a deposit of 10% or 20% of the whole fare, depending on the length of the cruise. To book a placeholder, you put down a flat $250 deposit per future stateroom. When you change a placeholder to a specific cruise booking you’ll have to pay any increase in deposit. Keep in mind, there is an advantage to booking a specific cruise as early as possible: you lock in the rate. So, if there is a cruise you might want to take, it’s a good idea to book that specific cruise rather than a placeholder. Even if you’re not 100% sure that’s your perfect cruise, remember you can change it later with no penalty.

If you ultimately decide not to take a cruise, Disney will refund 100% of your deposit or placeholder payment . You always get a 100% refund as long as you haven’t passed the penalty date (120-75 days from sailing, depending on the cruise), and you didn’t book a concierge room or suite. There’s basically no risk, though it does tie up some deposit money while you think about your options.

You can change almost every aspect of your booking as many times as you need to and still keep the benefits . The name of one adult in each stateroom must stay the same, but you can change the names of any of the other guests, or increase or reduce the number of guests. You can change the stateroom category. You can change the ship or the sailing as long as the sail date is within 24 months of the initial booking date. If you end up changing to a more expensive booking, you’ll need to make up the difference between your original deposit and the new deposit. Keep in mind that if you later add a guest to a stateroom, they will get added at current rates, not at your initial booking rates. For the lowest final price and most flexibility, it’s a good idea to make the initial booking with everyone who might go, rather than only the people you know are going to go.

You get the full discount for up to two future staterooms or placeholders per household (i.e. per mailing address). Once you leave the ship, you can’t book more , so we recommend booking two (or more) every time, if you can afford to tie up the deposit money. If you later decide that you want to bring another family along, or put the kids in their own stateroom, you’ll be glad to have two rooms booked with the discount.

You can get the full discount for friends or relatives who are not sailing on your cruise. You’ll need your friends’ full legal names (as written on their passport) and their birth dates. Under the current rules, the first stateroom or placeholder you book with this discount on the future cruise needs to include at least one adult who is on the current cruise, in addition to anyone else you want to add, and then the second stateroom can have anyone in it. For example, say you wanted to book a cruise for your friends, the Smith family. You could book one room for your own family, then book the second room (on the same cruise) for the Smith family.

If you already have a future cruise booked, you can usually “re-shop” your existing booking and get the discount. However, you basically have to make a new booking and cancel the old one, and the price might have gone up since you booked originally, potentially wiping out your discount. Be sure to compare the bottom-line price for both bookings.

A few other terms & conditions:

• There is no discount or lower deposit for 1- or 2-night sailings, IGT, OGT and VGT Restricted Guarantee bookings, or concierge staterooms and suites.
• You can get the 10% discount and reduced deposit on a maximum of two staterooms per household.
• Onboard booking incentives CANNOT be combined with any group discounts organized by a travel agency.
• Disney could change these rules and benefits at any time. Check onboard for the latest terms.

Onboard Discount Blackout Dates:

Please note: there is no 10% discount when you book the following holiday and peak dates onboard (but you do get the smaller deposit):

• Disney Dream : 3/31, 11/23, 11/27, 12/21, 12/26, 12/30
• Disney Fantasy : 3/23, 3/30, 6/8, 11/23, 12/22, 12/26, 12/29
• Disney Magic : 6/6, 11/25, 12/29
• Disney Wish : 3/25, 3/29, 4/1, 11/25, 12/23, 12/27, 12/30
• Disney Wonder : ( none announced yet )
• The full legal names of everyone who is going to go on the future cruise, as listed on their passport or birth certificate
• The number of rooms you want to book and what type ( inside, outside, verandah or placeholder )
• Who’s in each room ( keeping in mind the maximum passengers for each room type )
• Specific cruises you’re interested in, if you plan to book a cruise and not a placeholder ( or just rough notes with your needs/restrictions like dates or region )
• Birth dates for everyone ( optional, but makes everything go smoother )
• Bring the info with you on the cruise. If you just want to book a basic placeholder, you can do that while on the cruise with the Disney Navigator App on your phone (if you don’t already have it, just search for “Disney Navigator” in the Apple or Google app stores; you can download it before the cruise leaves to save time). If you want to do anything more complicated you’ll need to talk to a consultant at the future cruise desk.
• If you can’t or don’t want to use the the Navigator app, at some point early in the cruise, go to the Future Bookings Desk on deck 4 and either fill out a form, or just put your room number and name on the sheet you brought (if it has all the details on it they’ll need) and drop it in the box. You can also wait for a consultant if they’re there, or check the schedule and come back when they’re scheduled to be there. If you drop off a form, they’ll secure a hold on a reservation and leave a printout by your stateroom door. If the reservation looks good, either go back to the desk to finish the booking or call 7-2848 from your stateroom phone. Either way, when the booking is done ask for a printed confirmation of your final reservation.
• Before you leave the ship, confirm that everything is correct . You should have a printed confirmation or an emailed confirmation. The confirmation should show that your deposit is paid (if not, the booking will be canceled). If this isn’t on your confirmation, go to the Future Bookings Desk or Guest Services and make sure everything is correct. If you are working with a travel agent, verbally confirm that they are listed on the reservation before you leave the ship.
• That’s it! If you booked a “placeholder” cruise, you can start the process of finding your actual cruise. If you are using a travel agent , email them to let them know you booked onboard. Once you’ve settled on the cruise you really want to take, change the booking as soon as you can to the actual sailing date to lock in the lowest possible fares and get the best choice of staterooms.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Florida Residents

New! As of March 27, 2024, the following cruises had availability in the Florida Resident category . Prices given are lowest available fares for a single stateroom, in US dollars, including taxes, fees and port expenses, rounded to the nearest dollar. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise. The room category available at that fare is in parentheses.

• 5-passenger rooms are rarely discounted for Florida residents , but they do show up occasionally.

Other stateroom categories may be available at other rates. Rates are per adult, based on double occupancy. Occupancy restrictions may apply. Excursions are not included. See Disney Cruise Line brochure for details and applicable terms and conditions. Other discounts do not apply. Only one discount may be used at a time. Rates in US dollars.

A copy of a valid proof of Florida residency for at least one adult in each stateroom needs to be transmitted (via fax or email) within 48 hours when booking with the Florida rate, and the same proof will need to be produced at check-in. The other guests in each stateroom do not need to be Florida residents.

• If you are interested in booking one of these special Florida resident rates , we recommend either Small World Vacations or Undercover Tourist . We have worked with both companies for over 15 years and can recommend them wholeheartedly. It’s really a question of whether you prefer full-service booking or self booking. These staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.

Disney Cruise Discounts For Military

Members of the US military and their families qualify for special cruise rates.

New! As of March 27, 2024, the following cruises had availability in the Military category . Prices given are lowest available fares for a single stateroom, in US dollars, including taxes, fees and port expenses, rounded to the nearest dollar. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise. The room category available at that fare is in parentheses.

• 5-passenger rooms are rarely discounted for military members , but they do show up occasionally.

Valid for new bookings only. Other stateroom categories may be available at other rates. Rates based on double occupancy. Occupancy restrictions may apply. Excursions are not included. See Disney Cruise Line brochure for details and applicable terms and conditions. Other discounts do not apply. Only one discount may be used at a time. Rates in US dollars. The following are eligible for the Military rate: active duty or retired military; 100% disabled retired military; reservists for National Guard and Army Reserve with active duty orders (active duty papers must be dated as of January 1st of the previous year to qualify); Department of Defense personnel.

Military personnel may book one stateroom under the military rates program. A second stateroom may be confirmed, if needed, to accommodate immediate family members only. For example, a family of two adults and four children may confirm two staterooms, based on availability, with the offer. Extended family (grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) do not qualify as immediate family members for the second stateroom. Active duty or retired military personnel and 100% permanently disabled veterans do not have to travel as long as their spouse has a valid military ID to show at the port. Reservists must be part of the travel party and must show ID at the port.

• If you are interested in booking one of these special Military rates , we recommend either Small World Vacations or Undercover Tourist . We have worked with both companies for over 15 years and can recommend them wholeheartedly. It’s really a question of whether you prefer full-service booking or self booking. These staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Canadian Residents

Canadian residents sometimes qualify for special rates on select sailings on Disney Cruise Line.

As of March 27, 2024, the following cruises had availability in the Canadian Resident category . Prices given are lowest available fares for a single stateroom, in US dollars, including taxes, fees and port expenses, rounded to the nearest dollar. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise. The room category available at that fare is in parentheses.

• 5-passenger rooms are rarely discounted for Canadian residents , but they do show up occasionally.

Select number of guests to see total sailing price:

Proof of Canadian residency will be required at time of check-in (your passport is fine).

• If you are interested in booking one of these special Canadian resident rates , we recommend either Small World Vacations or Undercover Tourist . We have worked with both companies for over 15 years and can recommend them wholeheartedly. It’s really a question of whether you prefer full-service booking or self booking. These staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.

Disney Cruise Discounts for European Residents

European (EEA) residents sometimes qualify for special rates on select sailings on Disney Cruise Line. When they become available we list them below.

No current offers.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Annual Passholders

Walt Disney World Annual Passholders sometimes qualify for special rates on select sailings on Disney Cruise Line. When they become available we list them below.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Southern California Residents

Southern California residents (ZIP codes 90000 to 93599) sometimes qualify for special rates on select sailings on Disney Cruise Line.

Prices given are lowest available fares for a single stateroom, in US dollars, including taxes, fees and port expenses, rounded to the nearest dollar. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise. The room category available at that fare is in parentheses.

• 5-passenger rooms are rarely discounted for Southern California residents , but they do show up occasionally.

A copy of a valid proof of Southern California residency (ZIP codes 90000 to 93599) for at least one adult in each stateroom needs to be transmitted (via fax or email) within 48 hours when booking with the Southern California rate, and the same proof will need to be produced at check-in. The other guests in each stateroom do not need to be Southern California residents.

• If you are interested in booking one of these special Southern California resident rates , we recommend either Small World Vacations or Undercover Tourist . We have worked with both companies for over 15 years and can recommend them wholeheartedly. It’s really a question of whether you prefer full-service booking or self booking. These staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.

Disney Cruise Discounts for UK and Ireland Residents

There’s a useful site listing the latest Disney Cruise Line deals for UK visitors, plus a FREE phone number you can call to learn more and book your cruise!

• Learn more about UK offers for Disney Cruise Line.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Disney Visa Cardholders

Disney Visa cardholders who use their card as their payment method onboard automatically get several discounts on purchases on the ship and on Castaway Cay. In order for this to happen, you have to register your Disney Visa card when you check in at the port. You do not need to charge the cruise fare on your Disney Visa to get the discounts.

You should not need to ask at purchase time to get the discounts; if you have the card registered any discounts should automatically be applied when you make an eligible purchase.

These discounts cannot be combined with any other discounts you might qualify for, such as Disney Vacation Club discounts.

Discounts include:

• 10% off selected merchandise purchases of $50 or more. Excludes sale merchandise, gift cards, Castaway Cay merchandise, DVDs, CDs, big-ticket items like art, jewelry, fragrances, cosmetics and watches, plus several vague catch-all categories like “selected special items.” Basically, ask first if you’ll get the 10% off, if it’s important to your purchase decision.
• 10% off 10-photo, 15-photo, 20-photo or unlimited photo packages.
• 10% off the Castaway Cay Getaway package (combination of snorkeling, bicycle and float or inner-tube rental).
• 20% off full-priced massage or facial treatment in the onboard spa while in port . This does not include massages on Castaway Cay or treatments discounted as part of onboard specials.

Disney Cruise Discounts for Disney Vacation Club Members

Dvc onboard spending discounts.

Disney Vacation Club members get several discounts on purchases onboard any Disney Cruise. You need to ask for the discount and show your Disney Vacation Club card at time of purchase.

This discount cannot be combined with any other discounts you might qualify for, such as Disney Visa discounts. DVC members who only own points purchased via resale after April 4, 2016 are not eligible for discounts, including this one.

• 10% off selected merchandise purchases of $50 or more.
• 10% off any digital photo package.

DVC Cruise Fare Discounts

The following cruises have discounts available for Disney Vacation Club members for up to 3 persons (some may also be available for 4 or 5). Prices given are base fares per person (Guest 1 & 2/Guest 3+). 3rd, 4th and 5th guest fares for children 12 and under will be lower. Taxes, fees and port expenses are not included. All sailings are from Port Canaveral unless noted otherwise.

Other stateroom categories may be available at other rates. Rates are per adult, based on double occupancy. Occupancy restrictions may apply. Taxes, fees, port expenses and excursions are not included. See Disney Cruise Line brochure for details and applicable terms and conditions. Other discounts do not apply. Only one discount may be used at a time. Rates in US dollars. Offer open only to Disney Vacation Club members.

• If you are interested in booking one of these special Disney Vacation Club rates , we recommend filling out a quote form with Small World Vacations . They give you full service, including a personal travel agent you can contact by email or direct phone number, and we recommend them wholeheartedly ! Best of all, it costs you nothing to use them, PLUS their FREE onboard credit offer applies to these special fares (though note that the total cruise fare must be at least $1000 to get their onboard credit). Be sure to tell them you want to book a Disney Vacation Club fare. You will need to fax or email proof of DVC membership to finalize the booking. Note that these staterooms often sell out fast, so if you see one you like, snag it quickly.

Organizing your own group? Disney Specialist travel agents are adept at handling large groups and offer on-board credit and sometimes other incentives. Contact a Disney Specialist travel agency such as Small World Vacations for details. Remember, it costs you nothing to use them!

Costco members can get rebates on Disney cruises, which come in the form of a Costco gift card. However, Costco Travel is not a full-service travel agency: don’t expect much service or information.

In our experience, Costco reps are very nice, but don’t know much about Disney Cruise Line. They almost certainly have never been on a Disney cruise, and may have never been on a cruise of any kind. If you choose to go this route, be prepared to spend time and energy doing your own research about what your package includes and how everything works. Heaven help you if you need to book something complicated like connecting rooms or want to know the pros and cons of different stateroom options. Costco Travel most definitely won’t be able to offer any insider tips on what to expect or help you take advantage of special booking tricks or “secret” room upgrades. Effectively you’re just booking the cruise yourself, but through Costco instead of Disney.

In addition, we find the Costco reps are clueless about Disney’s promotional offers — they really only know about the Costco rebate. You will have to do your own monitoring to see if any specials or price drops come out, and then see if you can get them applied to your booking. A top-notch Disney specialist agency will do this for you automatically, adjusting your reservation to reflect any current offers or discounts.

Travelocity sometimes has special deals on Disney cruises. They are usually fairly last-minute offers, most typically no more than 6 months in advance. Travelocity also sometimes advertises “15% off shore excursions” but be aware that those are privately booked excursions through a company called Port Promotions, NOT the official Disney excursions.

Expedia has the same base prices as everyone else, but occasionally they will have their own additional offer, like onboard credit or extra Expedia rewards points. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully; in some cases there are sharp limits on the extra rewards or credit, or it will only apply to the cruise fare for the first two guests instead of the entire cruise fare.

When is the cheapest time to book a Disney Cruise?

When planning a Disney Cruise, one of the most common questions that arise is: when is the cheapest time to book? The answer to this question can significantly impact your overall vacation budget. This article will provide an in-depth analysis of the best times to book a Disney Cruise and offer tips and tricks to save money on your next magical voyage.

The cheapest time to book a Disney Cruise is typically during the off-peak seasons, which are September and October, late January, early February, and early May. The prices can also be lower for Mediterranean sailings in March, April, and May, and for Northern Europe cruises in May and October. Booking as soon as the cruise becomes available, usually about 18 months in advance, can also help secure lower rates.

Off-Peak Seasons: The Secret to Affordable Disney Cruises

The most affordable months to book a Disney Cruise are typically September and October, followed closely by late January, early February, and early May. These months coincide with the start of the school year or the hurricane season in the Atlantic, which can lead to more delays and potential cancellations. However, these factors also lead to a reduction in demand, which can result in lower prices.

For Mediterranean sailings, the most affordable months are March, April, and May, while for Northern Europe cruises, the cheapest times are typically May and October.

Timing is Everything: Book Early to Save More

Disney Cruise Line operates on a tiered pricing system, meaning the earlier you book, the more likely you are to secure a lower rate. The best time to book is as soon as the cruise becomes available for booking, which is typically about 18 months in advance. Not only does early booking help you secure the best prices, but it also ensures a wider availability of staterooms.

Weekday Vs. Weekend: Does it Make a Difference?

While there isn’t a specific day of the week that guarantees cheaper rates, some weekends may offer special deals. However, weekday cruises are generally more affordable as most travelers plan their trips around weekends.

Holidays and School Vacation: A Pricey Affair

Disney Cruises are most expensive during holiday weeks and summer months when kids are on school break and families have more time for vacations. To get the best prices, consider cruising during off-peak times when schools are in session.

Itinerary and Destination: A Game-Changer

The chosen itinerary or destination significantly impacts the cost of a Disney Cruise. Longer voyages to exotic locations generally cost more than short trips to nearby ports. Prices also vary depending on the season, with peak season cruises costing more than off-season ones.

Special Promotions and Discounts: An Added Advantage

Disney Cruise Line typically offers various promotions and discounts, including reduced rates for military personnel, Florida residents, and Disney Vacation Club members. It’s worth checking the Disney Cruise Line website or contacting a travel agent to stay updated on these offers.

Cost-Saving Tips and Tricks

There are several ways to save money when booking a Disney Cruise. Some of these include:

• Booking early
• Choosing off-season dates
• Letting Disney choose your cabin
• Rebooking onboard for future discounts
• Paying with points or discounted Disney gift cards
• Booking a guarantee cabin
• Participating in free onboard activities

What’s Included in a Disney Cruise Vacation Package?

A Disney Cruise vacation package includes a variety of amenities and activities, from live shows and entertainment, immersive kids’ clubs, bars and lounges for adults, and dining options to fitness centers, sports, and games. Access to Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, is also included in most cruises.

In conclusion, the cheapest time to book a Disney Cruise depends on various factors such as the time of year, the chosen itinerary, and how early you book. By considering the tips and tricks mentioned in this article, you can potentially save money on your Disney Cruise and enjoy a magical vacation without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a guarantee cabin.

A guarantee cabin is a type of booking where you choose a category of cabin rather than a specific room. The cruise line guarantees you’ll get a stateroom in the category you’ve chosen or higher. The actual cabin is assigned closer to the sailing date, based on availability.

What are the benefits of rebooking onboard for future discounts?

When you rebook onboard, Disney Cruise Line often offers incentives such as discounts on future cruises, reduced deposits, or onboard credit. These benefits can help you save money on your next Disney Cruise.

What is the Disney Vacation Club?

The Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a vacation ownership program, or timeshare, that allows members to enjoy vacations at Disney resorts and other locations around the world. DVC members often get special discounts and offers on Disney Cruises.

Does Disney Cruise Line offer last-minute deals?

While Disney Cruise Line occasionally offers last-minute deals, they are not as common as with other cruise lines due to high demand. However, it’s always worth checking the Disney Cruise Line website or contacting a travel agent for any available last-minute offers.

Are meals included in the Disney Cruise vacation package?

Yes, meals are included in the Disney Cruise vacation package. This includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks at various dining locations throughout the ship. However, specialty dining experiences may come at an additional cost.

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Ashley is a true theme park veteran, with insights gleaned from multiple visits to every park in the US. Her goal is to provide an insider's guide to making the most of your visit to any theme park.

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Table of Contents

Where does Disney sail?

Disney's fleet of cruise ships, disney cruise costs, how to save money on a disney cruise, disney cruise costs, recapped.

If you’ve caught yourself researching Disney cruises lately, we don’t blame you — with waterslides galore and a reputation for luxury, Disney cruises can be a lot of fun. But they can also be pricey, and those costs can add up if you’re sailing with multiple people.

If you’ve been asking, “How much is a Disney cruise?,” we have the answer for you. Let’s look at the options for cruises, how much they cost and ways you can make them more affordable.

No matter where you’re looking to go, Disney likely has a cruise for you. Sure, you won’t find ships heading to Antarctica, but there are still plenty of destinations from which to choose, including:

New Zealand.

Pacific Coast.

Panama Canal.

South Pacific.

Trans-Atlantic.

Many of these destinations are oriented toward North American travelers, but you’ll find options scattered all over the world.

» Learn more: Is cruise travel insurance worth the cost?

Despite its wide variety of destinations, Disney operates only six ships. Its newest ship, the Disney Treasure, is set to launch in December 2024.

Along with the Disney Treasure, you can opt to sail with:

Disney Dream.

Disney Fantasy.

Disney Magic.

Disney Wonder.

Disney Wish.

» Learn more: The best Disney credit card might surprise you

So, how much should you save to cover Disney cruise costs? The short answer: It depends.

No, that’s probably not what you want to hear, but it’s the truth. The price of a Disney cruise is going to be influenced by a variety of factors, including:

Where you’re going.

The trip’s duration.

Which Disney ship you’re on.

How many people you’re traveling with.

The type of stateroom you book.

Any add-ons or specialty bookings you choose.

If you’re looking for an all-out experience, it’s pretty easy to rack up a big bill. Disney cruises are well known as an expensive option, but tacking on high-end touches such as a concierge room and spa visits will really drive up the price.

The cheapest cruises you’ll find tend to sail from San Diego, and they’re the shortest trips as well. We searched for sailings across the calendar and found the cheapest rates rang in at $1,326 for two guests in an inside room on a three-night trip from San Diego.

In contrast, the most expensive cruise we found was a 10-night option that travels through Iceland, Norway, France and Denmark. The price tag came in at $6,489 for two guests in an inside cabin and rose to $28,089 for a concierge-level room.

» Learn more: How I did a 5-day, $4,000 Disney trip for just $1,600

There’s no denying that Disney cruises can be expensive. However, there are ways you can save money on your booking.

Find discounted sailings

This first option seems obvious, but you’ll want to specifically search for discounted sailings. Although Disney doesn’t always offer sales, if they are available, you'll find them on the Disney cruise line page — just click “Show special offer filters” when searching.

The special offers filter will let you know what types of discounts are available, like the example above promoting up to 35% off on select sailings.

Skip the add-ons

The base fare for these trips includes almost everything, so if you’re looking to drop the cost of a Disney cruise, consider avoiding add-ons. This means skipping out on things like wine tastings and specialty drinks as well as forgoing dinner at Palo, the adults-only Italian restaurant that comes with additional costs.

Instead, enjoy the plethora of complimentary activities, such as pools, movies, shows, karaoke, dancing and more. And when it comes to food and beverage, simply sip the included soda and coffee, eat the (already amazing) free food and don’t forget to order a Mickey ice cream bar with your complimentary room service.

Disney is notable in that it also allows you to bring your own alcohol on board. Each guest older than 21 can bring up to two bottles of wine or six cans of beer when they first board and at every port of call. Considering that alcohol on the ship can be pretty expensive, this is a good way to save money.

Use a promotion

Do you live in Florida or Southern California? Or perhaps you’re a member of the U.S. military ? If any of these apply to you, you may have special access to discounted Disney cruise prices.

You’ll be able to find these deals via that special offers filter shown above. For example, that three-night San Diego sailing mentioned above dropped from $1,326 to $1,164 once we selected the U.S. military filter.

Redeem points

Last, but certainly not least, is the option to redeem your points for a Disney cruise. While there’s no good way to transfer points directly, there are still ways you can use points toward your booking.

The most convenient way is by using a credit card that’ll wipe away your travel costs. Plenty of cards have this feature, but two fairly decent ones are the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card and the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . Both cards will allow you to redeem your points toward purchases at a rate of 1 cent per point.

Even better, these redemptions can be stacked with other discounts, allowing you to drop your costs even more. For example, a member of the U.S. military can redeem 116,400 Capital One Miles to pay for their entire cruise, an excellent double dip that saves money and miles.

» Learn more: 7 tips for getting the best deal on your next cruise

The cost of a Disney cruise can vary dramatically based on your needs and sailing preferences. However, you should expect to spend at least $1,000 on a cruise for two passengers. The price goes up from there depending on your cabin selection, trip duration and destination choices, among other options.

If you’re looking to save money on a Disney cruise, consider waiting for a sale, checking relevant discounts or redeeming points to help keep your out-of-pocket costs low. And if you like to enjoy an alcoholic beverage every once in a while, we recommend bringing your preferred drink with you on board.

(Top photo courtesy of Disney Cruise Line)

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

1x-3x Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

16 Ways to Save Money on Disney Cruises

Disney cruises are a magical experience, but they can also be expensive . Here are 16 ways to save money on Disney cruises to make them more affordable. Follow these tips, and you’ll be able to enjoy all the magic of a Disney cruise without breaking the bank!

1. Plan Ahead and Book Early

As a general rule, Disney cruises are the cheapest on the first day they go on sale. Staterooms with Restricted Guarantees are one exception (see #2 for more details).

Disney lets Guests book their cruises about a year in advance. Those who book earliest get the best prices. As the cruise ships fill up, the price rises accordingly. This is known as a surge pricing model.

Book your cruise as early as you can because you’ll get the best price and have the best choice of cabin types.

If you need help navigating your Disney Cruise Line vacation plans, we highly recommend contacting at The Vacationeer .  Their Disney travel agents will help you find the lowest price, and there’s no charge to use their services!

2. Watch for Last-Minute Restricted Guarantee Staterooms

Last-minute Restricted Guarantee staterooms can save you money on your Disney cruise, but they aren’t for everyone.

The Restricted Guarantee fares work as follows: If a specific sailing or cabin category does not sell as quickly as Disney expects, they will offer Restricted Guarantee fares for the remaining unfilled rooms. These deals are generally released 21 – 75 days before departure.

Disney guarantees you’ll get at least the stateroom type specified (and possibly a higher level) at booking time. However, you won’t know your exact stateroom at the booking time. The actual stateroom assignment usually happens about two weeks before embarkation, but it can be assigned as late as the day of embarkation.

You can save money on Disney cruises by booking a Restricted Guarantee stateroom, but you have to be flexible with your dates and stateroom type.

3. Pick Off-Peak Departures

Disney raises its prices to reflect the high demand, so avoid the summer and major holidays such as Spring Break, Thanksgiving, Christmas break, etc. It’s the top cruise line for kids , and prices reflect times when kids can travel. If you have children and must cruise during the summer, avoid the peak season by going at the beginning of (or end of) summer break.

Disney cruises tend to be less expensive when schools are in session since families are less likely to book cruises then. Also, there are seasons when fares are cheaper due to the calendar or weather.

Disney cruises are typically less expensive during:

• January (except for New Year’s week)
• Early February
• September and October
• Early November
• Early December

If you are flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to save quite a bit on a Disney cruise if you book during one of these off-peak times. Disney also offers special themed cruises during slower times to attract more people.

And it bears remembering that the tropics are often warmer than the United States, so a November cruise is likely to still be very pleasant weather-wise.

It may be cold at home, but it's warm in the Caribbean!

4. Choose Shorter Cruises

Disney Cruise Line offers three and four-night itineraries to Baja, the Bahamas (including Disney’s private island Castaway Cay ), and the Caribbean. Even with the high rates per night, sailing for three or four days will still be less expensive than a whole week of vacation.

If you are unsure what Disney cruises are like – or are worried about getting seasick – short cruises are a great way to test the waters. If you like it (which is likely), you can always save up for a more extended cruise later.

5. Choose Inside Cabins

One easy way to save on Disney cruises is to choose an inside cabin.  Inside cabins are those without a porthole window or a veranda/balcony.  They’re generally the most affordable stateroom on any cruise line, and on Disney ships they have features to make them feel less dark and enclosed than you might expect.

Inside staterooms on the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder have a porthole-shaped mirror on the wall to make the room feel just a bit bigger.

The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy inside staterooms feature magical portholes.  These are round video screens that show a real-time view of the outside, along with a bit of additional character from time to time.

On the Disney Wish , there’s a large piece of artwork on the wall behind the bed.

6. Use A Travel Agent to Receive Onboard Credit

If you are planning a Disney cruise, it can be helpful to use a travel agent. Travel agents are experts at booking cruises and can often get you discounts that you wouldn’t be able to get on your own.

The majority of Disney travel agents do not charge you for using their services, contrary to popular belief. You can, however, count on them to get you the best vacation for your money.

They can find sail dates with lower prices or the exact type of cabin you need. Plus, travel agents often offer extra perks to their clients. Ultimately, you may have a better experience and pay less than if you booked directly through Disney Cruise Line (in some cases they can even work with Disney Cruise Line Guest Services to apply new discounts that are announced after you booked!).

If you decide to use a travel agent, shop around and look for agencies that 1. specialize in Disney vacations and 2. offer something called “onboard credit.” That way, you can be sure that you are getting the best possible deal.

Onboard Credits for Disney Cruises

You can save money on your Disney cruise by using onboard credits. What is Disney cruise onboard credit, you ask?

Due to their commitment to maintaining a level playing field, Disney does not permit third parties to offer discounts on any of its cruises. To gain a competitive edge, many travel agencies instead offer onboard credits as a booking bonus to entice potential cruise passengers to book through them. Once you board the ship, you’ll receive onboard credits for anything you spend money on (such as tipping , alcohol, excursions, and souvenirs).  In other words, you won’t save on the actual cruise fare, but you’ll instead receive an allowance to use toward purchases onboard the ship.

Where to Find Onboard Credits 

Book your Disney cruise through The Vacationeer and receive a generous onboard credit to apply to your stateroom account.

The Vacationeer’s onboard credit ranks among the highest in the industry, and they can assist you with choosing the best Disney cruise ship and itinerary for your family.

Click HERE to learn how to save on Disney cruises by taking advantage of their generous onboard credit offer.

7. Bookmark Disney’s Special Offers Page for Promotions

The Disney Cruise Line website usually features limited-time promotions for a specific sailing date, cabin type, departure port, or even for residents of a particular state/country.

There aren’t many Disney cruise deals to choose from, but you might find one that works for you and will save you money. Please read the fine print on this page because the deals might be for guaranteed fares with many restrictions.

Watch the specials or let your travel agent know what you qualify for so they can watch for you!

8. Check for Military Discounts

Disney’s special offers page also includes targeted discounts for those in the military.

If you or a family member is in the military, you might be able to get a discount on your Disney cruise. Discounts for military personnel are only available for sailings that are just a few months away. Military members are entitled to one stateroom per sailing under the special military rates.

You will typically need to show your military ID at booking to get a military discount.

If you are interested in a military discount, check with the cruise line or your travel agent before booking. The Vacationeer can help you determine your eligibility and your discounted rate.

9. Look for Florida Resident Discounts

Many cruise lines offer discounts for residents of certain states, and Disney is no exception. If you are a Florida resident, you might be able to get a discount on your Disney cruise.

Residents of Florida can often save up to 35% on select Disney Bahamas and Caribbean cruises. You will need to show proof of residency at the time of booking.

Check with The Vacationeer for more information.

Port Canaveral, FL | Image © Disney

10. Join the Disney Vacation Club or Castaway Club

If you are a Disney Vacation Club (DVC)  or Castaway Club (CC) member, you may be eligible for occasional special rates on Disney cruises. These rates are often lower than the rates available to the general public.

To get the DVC or CC member rate, you must book your cruise through Disney Cruise Line’s website, call their reservation line, or have your Disney travel advisor assist you. You will need to provide them with your DVC or CC membership number.

If you are thinking of joining the DVC or CC, booking a cruise at a member rate is a great perk that might nudge you to started. Not only will you save on Disney cruises, but you’ll also get to enjoy all the other benefits of membership.

DVC members using their membership points to pay for at least one traveler on the cruise are also eligible to pay a fixed cash price for other travelers that is not subject to the variable pricing described in rule one above.

DVC and Castaway Club members are also usually allowed to book new saildates at least one day prior to members of the general public, again helping them get ahead of later pricing surges.

11. Sign up for a Disney Visa Credit Card

Disney’s Visa credit cards are another way to save money on Disney cruises.

You can earn 1% Disney Rewards Dollars for every dollar spent on the Disney Rewards Visa Card . There is no monthly fee, and you can redeem your rewards on Disney cruise packages, souvenirs, and onboard activities.

The Disney Premier Visa enables you to earn 2% Disney Rewards Dollars on purchases at grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and most Disney locations. Earn 1% on all other purchases. You can redeem your Rewards Dollars for merchandise, air travel, and Disney vacations (including Disney cruises).

In addition to exclusive discounts on select onboard purchases, cardmembers also receive discounts on Disney Store shopping and Disney theme park dining.

12. Bring your Souvenirs

Cruise ship shoppers are an example of a captive audience because they are on board a ship in the middle of the ocean. You will have to pay a high price for Mickey dolls, T-shirts, and other Disney-themed items when your kids see all the Disney merch aboard your ship.

Big box stores, such as Walmart, Target, and Kohl’s, have cheaper Disney-themed toys and clothes. It may be economical to purchase your souvenirs there before setting foot on the cruise ship.

Find out if anyone in your local community has Mickey ears from previous trips or princess costumes that their kids have outgrown; you might be able to find Disney swag for free or cheap.

13. Make your Costumes

It is always fun to dress up as your favorite princess or pirate on a Disney cruise. However, if your little one insists on dressing up every day, you can easily blow your budget on costumes (and airline baggage fees).

Create your own costumes before you leave, and you will save on your Disney cruise expenses.

For example, a dark blue shirt, a yellow skirt, and a red hair bow are all you need to capture the essence of Snow White.

Shop at Goodwill and thrift stores for dresses you can customize into a Disney ballgown. If you can sew, head to the craft store and get creative!

14. Skip the Extras to Save Money

When your Disney cruise is paid for, the expenses don’t stop. There are plenty of enticements to your wallet onboard, from princess teas and makeovers to adults-only gourmet meals. Say no to these extras if you want to save money on your Disney cruise.

Your fare includes meals at various themed restaurants , so eat there and leave parent date night for another week. You can skip the professional makeover, do your own hair and makeup, and dress up in the cabin yourself.

There are a variety of free activities on board the ship, including Disney character encounters, nightly musical performances in the theater, and time in the kids club and pool.

Don’t pay more for ice cream and desserts at the sweet shops. Instead, eat them with meals, and take advantage of the free ice cream cones available on the pool deck.

Rather than hiring a professional to take your photos, you can find plenty of perfect backdrops on board and in port and snap your own captivating photographs.

For extras you can’t skip, such as transportation between the airport and port , try to find the most economical choices.

These prudent choices can reduce the cost of your Disney cruise .

15. Bring Your Own Booze

Here’s an easy way to save money on Disney cruises: Instead of hitting the bars on the ship, bring your own alcohol.

At the beginning of the cruise, Guests 21 or older can bring two bottles of unopened wine or champagne (no more than 750 milliliters each) or six beers (no more than 12 ounces each). 

Each port of call will also allow you to stock up with the same amount.

A word of caution: although this tip will let you save versus purchasing alcohol onboard , you’ll have to pay a $25 corking fee should you wish to enjoy your own wine/champagne during your dinner in the ship’s restaurants.

Also note that you must bring alcohol onboard as a “carry-on” — it cannot be packed in your checked luggage .

Yes, you can BYOB on a Disney Cruise

16. Save by Booking While Still Onboard a Disney Cruise Ship

This tip only works if you’re already on a Disney cruise ship, so it won’t save you any money on your first ever Disney cruise.  But if you’re already cruising with Disney , take advantage of Disney’s special onboard-only booking offer to save on your next Disney Cruise Line vacation. With this offer, you get the following:

• 10% savings versus DisneyCruise. com ‘s prevailing rates
• Reduced deposit for sailings of 7 nights or more

The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app lets you make a placeholder reservation for future sailing once you are aboard a Disney cruise.

Bonus Tip: Discounted Disney Gift Cards

We don’t include this as a standard tip because it’s somewhat complicated and has some significant considerations.  But, with proper planning and access to the right type of stores, you might be able to purchase Disney Gift Cards at a slight discount off of face value and then apply those as payment for your cruise (or any other Disney trip).

For example, Target RedCard members may be eligible to receive a 5% discount on Disney Gift Cards — the same discount afforded to most other purchases made using the card.  Other national and regional retailers may offer similar promotions ; these can change frequently, so check directly with your retailer before committing any money.

Purchasing gift cards at a discount, and then using those gift cards to pay for your cruise, is a valid — though admittedly complex — way to save money on the costs of a Disney Cruise.

An important consideration if you choose to use this method: should your travel plans change and you receive a refund when canceling or modifying a cruise, refunds go back to the method of payment used.  This means that any funds paid by gift card will be refunded back to the gift card, and you’ll be “stuck” with a large amount of funds that must be used only for Disney-related purchases.

Also note that for a cruise fare costing several thousand dollars, you’ll likely need to accumulate multiple gift cards.  The Disney Gift Card website allows you to consolidate multiple gift card balances onto a single card, but the total balance allowed on any individual card is $1,000 and some types of gift cards may not be allowed to consolidate funds.

Ready to Save Money on your Disney Cruise? The Vacationeer can help!

If you need help planning and booking your magical Disney Cruise Line vacation, please contact our friends at The Vacationeer . Their services are always helpful and free of charge!

We hope that our list of cost-saving tips will help make your Disney cruise more affordable. By being prepared and doing your research, you can ensure that you have a magical vacation without breaking the bank.

Thanks for reading our Ways to Save on Disney Cruises article. We hope you have a fantastic vacation out at sea!

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How To Book Cheap Disney Cruises

Unofficial guide for cheap disney cruises.

Are you booking a Disney cruise? Traveling all around the world and leaving from various ports including Florida, Texas, California and New York, it’s possible to find the perfect, magical cruise for you and your family. You can journey to the Caribbean, the Bahamas, or even head to Alaska, Europe and beyond. It’s entirely up to you which adventure you choose!

Families are often worried that a Disney cruise isn’t going to match their price range. However, in this guide, you’ll discover some of the best ways to book cheap Disney cruises that won’t break the bank. Whatever your budget, you can afford this awesome spellbinding vacation. If you’re looking to sail with another cruise line be sure to check at our guide to saving with cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises.

Special Deals 

You should make sure that you are looking for special offers on Disney cruises because there are quite a few to consider. For instance, you can get onboard credit spending money. One of the ways the cost of a Disney cruise adds up is the money that you’ll spend on the ship itself. Onboard credit of up to $300 can certainly provide the financial support you need to keep costs low even once you’ve unpacked. 

This isn’t the only type of special deal worth considering either. If you shop around, you’re sure to find other options so it’s worth completing some research. The official site even runs offers at certain points throughout the year to make a cruise more affordable for the whole family. 

Compare The Different Cruises 

As mentioned, Disney actually runs multiple cruise ships through the year and they are all heading to different locations. Some travel further and head out for longer with incredible port calls including at private islands like Castaway Cay in the Bahamas. As you might have guessed, if you look at the different cruises you’ll find that prices differ substantially. As such, if you’re flexible about where you want to go, you can definitely save by selecting one of the cruises which aren’t quite as popular but just as magical. 

If you use a travel company, they will be able to check out these different cruises for you and help you find the one that perfectly matches your budget. 

The Right Time

It’s certainly true to say that the cost of a Disney Cruise will differ depending on when you want to set off. Generally speaking, the cheapest time for a Disney cruise is late in January, early in February or early in May. Spring months including March and April also come with great savings . 

If you are planning on heading on a cruise later in the year, then you might want to consider booking a week in September early November or early December.

The most expensive times for a Disney cruise are around the holiday seasons including Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Halloween. Although, booking during these times does grant you access to unique seasonal treats and entertainment options that you are sure to love. 

Booking Early 

Do make sure that you book early if you want to save money on a Disney cruise. When it comes to DCL prices start at their lowest point and as the cruise gets closer will rise substantially. While you might be lucky and discover a cancellation at a discounted prince, this is quite rare. After all, who cancels a cruise with Disney? That said, there is a Special Offers page on the official website which highlights these types of last-minute discounts. 

Booking early isn’t just about saving money though. These cruises and particularly the cheapest rooms tend to sell out fast. It’s recommended that you book as close to a year in advance as you can and then spend months leading up to your cruise looking forward to an incredible getaway. 

Consult An Expert 

You should think about using an expert to book your cruise like Get Away Today . These are specialist sellers of the Disney Cruise Line and as such can provide fantastic deal options directly to you. As well as helping you save money, this also saves you on stress as well. You won’t have to complete the legwork yourself when you are looking for the right deal. Everything will be taken care of for you. Companies like this can also often provide opportunities to access exclusive deals that you won’t find elsewhere on the market. 

Do You need The Drink Package?

Perhaps not because soda, lemonade, hot tea, milk, and coffee are all complimentary on a Disney cruise. These are also available 24/7 from dispensers just like the Disney parks. You can find them inside and close to restaurants. 

Most people don’t know that you can bring your own alcohol on board a Disney cruise. That’s going to be a huge money saver because you won’t have to pay for the drinks at the bar. If you’re over 21, you can bring two bottles of wine that haven’t been opened or two champagne bottles. Alternatively, you can bring six beers and these can be picked up at each port. You need to make sure that these are stored in your carry-on luggage. If they are in checked luggage, the alcohol will be removed and returned at the end of your trip. 

Restricted Guarantee And Secret Rooms

If you are booking late, then you can get a restricted guarantee room. You will have no choice of the room you receive and it will be assigned to you a few days before. You can save as much as $400 on your trip with this tactic. When you book a restricted guarantee room, there is no refund available and it is also non-transferable. So make sure that you’re definitely taking the trip before you book. 

There are also secret rooms on two of the cruise lines. These provide slightly obstructed views which makes them a little cheaper to book. You can typically gain these if you book early and request for them. Restricted views include rooms with portholes rather than full windows or verandahs that are slightly obstructed. 

We hope this helps you find the right cheap Disney cruises and deals for you and your family!

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

What Is The Cheapest Month To Take A Disney Cruise

Published: December 20, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Merrile Paquin

• Travel Essentials & Accessories
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction:

Welcome aboard! If you’ve always dreamt of experiencing the magic of a Disney Cruise but are concerned about the cost, you’ve come to the right place. As an expert in cruises and a lover of all things Disney, I’m here to guide you on your quest to find the cheapest month to take a Disney Cruise.

Going on a Disney Cruise is a unique experience that combines the famous Disney charm with the excitement of sailing the high seas. From stunning entertainment to world-class dining and exceptional service, a Disney Cruise offers something for everyone in the family.

However, it’s no secret that Disney Cruises can come with a hefty price tag. The cost of a cruise varies depending on multiple factors, including the time of year you choose to set sail. By understanding the factors that influence Disney Cruise prices and analyzing the monthly price fluctuations, we can uncover the most affordable times to embark on your dream vacation.

In this article, we will explore the various factors that affect Disney Cruise prices and delve into the analysis of monthly price fluctuations. We will then reveal the cheapest month to take a Disney Cruise, giving you the opportunity to plan your vacation without breaking the bank. Finally, we’ll provide you with some valuable tips for booking a cheap Disney Cruise, ensuring that you get the best possible deal for your magical adventure.

So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover the secrets of finding the best deals for a Disney Cruise. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, get ready to set sail on an unforgettable adventure while staying within your budget.

Factors Affecting Disney Cruise Prices:

When it comes to pricing a Disney Cruise, several key factors can influence the overall cost. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions to save money on your dream vacation. Here are some of the main factors that can affect the price of a Disney Cruise:

• Time of Year: The time of year you choose to embark on your Disney Cruise can have a significant impact on the price. Typically, the peak travel seasons, such as school holidays and summer months, tend to be more expensive. On the other hand, sailing during off-peak seasons, such as early spring or fall, can often result in lower cruise fares.
• Cabin Category: The type of cabin you choose can greatly affect the price of your Disney Cruise. The cruise line offers various categories, ranging from inside staterooms to luxurious suites. Naturally, the more spacious and upscale the cabin, the higher the price tag. If you’re on a budget, opting for an inside or oceanview cabin can help reduce costs while still providing a comfortable onboard experience.
• Itinerary: The specific destinations and ports of call included in your Disney Cruise itinerary can impact the overall price. Sailings that visit popular and in-demand locations like the Caribbean or Mediterranean may command higher prices compared to less frequented destinations. Consider opting for less popular itineraries or shorter cruises to potentially save money.
• Cruise Length: The duration of your Disney Cruise will play a role in determining the cost. Longer cruises generally come with a higher price tag since they offer more days of onboard activities and entertainment. If you’re looking to save money, consider booking a shorter cruise or keeping an eye out for special promotions and discounts on longer sailings.
• Onboard Amenities: Disney Cruises are renowned for their exceptional onboard amenities and entertainment options. However, indulging in extras like spa treatments, adult-exclusive dining experiences, and specialty beverages can add up quickly. Keep in mind that while many onboard amenities are included in the price, some activities and experiences may come at an additional cost.

By considering these factors and prioritizing what is most important to you, you can make informed decisions when planning your Disney Cruise and potentially find ways to save on the overall cost. Now that we understand the factors that influence Disney Cruise prices, let’s dive deeper into the analysis of monthly price fluctuations to uncover the cheapest month to take a Disney Cruise.

Analysis of Monthly Price Fluctuations:

Now that we have an understanding of the factors that affect Disney Cruise prices, let’s analyze the monthly price fluctuations to identify the cheapest month to take a Disney Cruise. Keep in mind that these fluctuations are based on historical data and trends, so prices may vary from year to year.

Typically, the months with the highest demand and consequently the highest prices for Disney Cruises are during school holidays, major holidays, and the summer months when families are more likely to travel. These peak seasons include months such as December, March, June, and July. If you’re aiming for the most affordable prices, it’s best to avoid these popular travel periods.

On the other hand, the shoulder seasons, which fall between the peak and off-peak seasons, often offer better deals and lower cruise fares. Months such as January, February, September, and October tend to have lower demand, resulting in more competitive pricing. These months can be an excellent choice for travelers looking to save money while still enjoying a magical Disney Cruise experience.

It’s important to note that Disney may offer various promotions and discounts throughout the year, such as early booking discounts, discounted rates for certain itineraries or cabin categories, or even last-minute deals. Keeping an eye out for these promotions and being flexible with your travel dates can help you secure the best possible price for your Disney Cruise.

In addition to the monthly fluctuations, it’s worth considering the day of the week you choose to set sail. Departing on weekdays, especially Mondays through Thursdays, can sometimes result in lower prices compared to weekend departures. This is because weekends often see higher demand as families prefer to start their vacations on weekends when they have time off from work and school.

By analyzing the monthly price fluctuations, taking advantage of promotions and discounts, and considering the day of the week you depart, you can identify the most cost-effective time to embark on your Disney Cruise. In the next section, we’ll reveal the cheapest month to take a Disney Cruise based on our analysis and provide you with some valuable tips for booking a cheap Disney Cruise.

The Cheapest Month to Take a Disney Cruise:

After careful analysis of the factors influencing Disney Cruise prices and the monthly price fluctuations, we have identified the cheapest month to take a Disney Cruise. Keep in mind that prices can vary between different years and itineraries, so it’s always a good idea to double-check with Disney and consult with a travel agent for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Based on historical trends, the months of January and September often offer the best value for those seeking a budget-friendly Disney Cruise. These months typically fall within the shoulder season, when demand is lower, resulting in more competitive pricing. Additionally, both January and September are considered off-peak months for travel, making it easier to find discounted rates.

Booking your Disney Cruise during these months allows you to take advantage of potential promotions and discounts offered by the cruise line. Keep an eye out for special offers, such as reduced fares, onboard credit, or discounted rates for specific itineraries or cabin categories. By combining these promotions with the already lower prices of the off-peak season, you can maximize your savings and get the most bang for your buck.

While January and September are generally the cheapest months, it’s important to note that other months in the shoulder season, such as February, October, and November, may also offer attractive pricing options. Don’t limit yourself to only these two months; consider your personal preferences, flexibility in travel dates, and availability of promotions when deciding on the best time to book your Disney Cruise.

Remember that planning ahead is crucial when looking for the cheapest rates. Disney Cruises tend to announce their itineraries and open bookings well in advance, so keeping an eye on their website and signing up for email alerts can help you secure the best deals early on. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to have access to a wider range of cabin options and promotions.

Now that you know the cheapest month to take a Disney Cruise, let’s explore some valuable tips for booking a cheap Disney Cruise and making the most of your vacation budget.

Tips for Booking a Cheap Disney Cruise:

Booking a Disney Cruise on a budget is possible with a little planning and these helpful tips. By following these strategies, you can maximize your savings and get the most value out of your Disney Cruise experience:

• Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates: Being flexible with your travel dates can open up more opportunities for discounted rates. Consider traveling during the off-peak seasons or shoulder seasons to take advantage of lower cruise fares.
• Keep an Eye on Promotions and Discounts: Disney often offers promotions and discounts throughout the year. Stay informed by regularly checking their website, signing up for email alerts, or following their social media accounts. These promotions can include reduced fares, onboard credits, or discounted rates for specific itineraries or cabin categories.
• Book Early: Disney Cruises tend to announce their itineraries and open bookings well in advance. Booking early not only ensures you have access to a wider range of cabin options but also increases your chances of securing the best promotions and discounts available.
• Consider Shorter Cruises: If you’re looking to save money, consider booking a shorter cruise. While longer cruises offer more days of onboard activities, shorter cruises often come with lower price tags and can still provide a fantastic Disney Cruise experience.
• Be Open to Different Cabin Categories: If budget is a priority, consider opting for an inside or oceanview cabin instead of a more expensive suite. While the view may not be as panoramic, you’ll still have access to all the onboard amenities and can save significantly on the cost of your cruise.
• Book Onboard Activities in Advance: Some onboard activities, such as specialty dining experiences or spa treatments, may require an additional fee. Booking these activities in advance can help you secure a spot and potentially save money compared to booking them once you’re on the ship.
• Consider Traveling with a Group: Disney Cruises offer group rates, which can provide additional savings when traveling with a larger group. Whether it’s extended family, friends, or a club or organization, booking as a group can help you secure discounted rates.

Remember to always compare prices from different sources, including travel agents, online travel agencies, and the official Disney Cruise Line website. Take into account any added benefits or incentives offered by each source, such as onboard credits or exclusive promotions.

By implementing these tips, you can make your dream of a Disney Cruise a reality without breaking the bank. Now that you’re armed with knowledge on booking a cheap Disney Cruise, it’s time to start planning your magical adventure.

Conclusion:

Embarking on a Disney Cruise doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By understanding the factors that affect Disney Cruise prices, analyzing monthly price fluctuations, and following our tips for booking a cheap Disney Cruise, you can find the most cost-effective options for your dream vacation.

Remember, the cheapest month to take a Disney Cruise typically falls within the off-peak or shoulder seasons. Months like January and September tend to offer the best value, but don’t hesitate to explore options in other months within those seasons as well.

Booking early, staying informed about promotions and discounts, being flexible with your travel dates, and considering alternative cabin categories are key strategies to secure the most affordable rates. Additionally, taking advantage of group rates and booking onboard activities in advance can further contribute to saving money on your Disney Cruise.

While keeping a budget in mind, it’s important to also focus on the magical experience that a Disney Cruise offers. From the first-class entertainment to the world-renowned customer service, the memories created on a Disney Cruise are priceless. So, plan your trip wisely, find the best deals, and embark on a journey filled with enchantment and joy.

Now that you have the knowledge and tools to book a cheap Disney Cruise, there’s nothing left to do but set sail on your adventure. Bon voyage and may your Disney Cruise be filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories!

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How To Score A Cheap Disney Cruise

We can just feel it. You’re itching to get away for a fun, relaxing vacation where all your worries slip away. Sounds like it’s time for a Disney Cruise !

It’s time to set sail and explore all the offerings a Disney Cruise can bring you. Disney’s newest cruise ship, the Disney Wish, has been christened and set sail , while the Disney Dream is now docked in Miami. But Disney Cruises are expensive, as we all know, so how can you cut down on the cost to take your dream vacation? Don’t worry, we’ve got a list for you!

Use A Travel Agent

You don’t have to do the planning all by yourself! Hiring a travel agent to help you plan your vacation costs you nothing extra, and they can even help you save money.

That’s right! Travel agents are kept up to date on all the deals and special offers Disney Cruise Line has. Some of them the general public can’t see, or really have to dig for, whereas a travel agent knows exactly where to look. And the travel agent gets paid by the companies they book you vacations on — you don’t pay them a penny!

Sounds like a great deal, right? We personally recommend MEI Travel’s Mouse Fan Travel for all your travel agent needs because they have over 20 years of Disney vacation planning experience! Trust us, you won’t regret using their services.

Check out why we love MEI Travel’s Mouse Fan Travel!

Watch for discounts yourself.

Don’t trust a travel agent to catch all the deals, or do you have connections or tricks up your sleeve? Then, by all means, use your own skills to get the best deals. But that means watching the Disney Cruise Line website , as well as our website, like a hawk for all the potential deals. 

There’s some sort of deal happening for Disney Cruise Line a lot of the time, but sometimes they’re not obvious. So be ready to dig through that website top to bottom to find all the discounts you can and crunch the numbers. As for our website, don’t worry, we’ll get straight to the point with deals!

Check out our list of ALL the Disney World discounts available right now!

Check costco and aaa if you’re a member.

Are you a Costco or AAA member ? If so, then you may be eligible for special deals/discounts on Disney Cruises! 

AAA and Costco both claim you can save big on your Disney vacations, so if you’re already a member of either of them, be sure to check what savings you could get on your cruise vacation. (But if you use a travel agent, they can apply them for you…just saying!)

See how Costco members can save HUGE on their Disney World vacation!

Cruise in the off-season.

While some people may say there’s no bad time to cruise, for many people, there are impractical times to cruise. And if those times aren’t impractical to you, you could save big on your cruise!

There are definite on- and off-seasons for cruising. The peak seasons for cruising are summer and spring breaks when kids are out of school, and holidays when kids are on school breaks and parents can ask for time off work. In fact, Disney recommends cruisers book their cruise a year in advance if they’re cruising during a peak season, to get the best price and stateroom availability .

Disney classifies its biggest off-season as during the fall months of the year. This also means that Disney sometimes offers more discounts during these off months to encourage more people to cruise. That way, they still make revenue sailing during less popular seasons, but you save money on your trip!

Click here to see Disney Cruise Line’s 2023 Itineraries! If you can only sail in the peak season, getting a head start is a great idea!

Keep it simple on board.

What do we mean by this? Well, some staterooms are more expensive than others, and additional excursions at your ports of call will cost you extra. Therefore, if you pick the simplest stateroom and keep to the activities included in the price of your cruise.

At your ports of call, choose to stick to the free activities , or stay on the ship and explore the many, MANY activities to do at all times of the day (or night). You can also stick to all the dining that is included with your cruise , instead of choosing to experience fine dining like Palo or Remy .

The cheapest staterooms on a Disney Cruise will be the indoor staterooms. If you’re worried about feeling claustrophobic, know that indoor Disney Cruise staterooms do still have a way for you to see outside.

These are Magical Portholes, which have a live feed of what looks like outside the ship, but different Disney characters stop by to say hello! Sticking to the basics of your Disney Cruise will help you save money initially, and not spend additional money while on board the ship.

Click here for the Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruise Line ships!

Keep up with allears for disney cruise sweepstakes.

It’s not uncommon to see some Disney Sweepstakes offering free cruises. Sure, it may seem like a one-in-a-million chance you’d win, but why not enter? These contests don’t usually cost anything to enter, so what’s there to lose?

Keep an eye on AllEars and we’ll report any sweepstakes we see to you all immediately, so you’ll have the best chance of winning by entering as many times as you can.

Need an example of what to look for? Here you go!

What do you think? Feel prepared to take on a Disney Cruise? We know you can do it! During your planning, be sure to see how Disney’s cruise ships compare to other cruise lines to make sure it’s the best fit for you and your group. And keep up-to-date on Disney Cruise Line’s COVID-19 procedures as well so you’re not caught unprepared . As always, stay tuned to AllEars for all your Disney news!

This is why you should SKIP Disney World and go on Disney’s newest cruise ship instead!

Join the AllEars.net Newsletter  to get the free list of 50 tips for going on a Disney Cruise! Click here to get started!

What activity are you most looking forward to experiencing on your Disney Cruise?

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26 Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock when setting sail with Mickey

Disney Cruise Line might be a comparatively small cruise line with just five ships, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in popularity and enthusiastic fans. It also has some unique approaches to cruising that may surprise you — whether you're a first-time cruiser or an experienced cruiser on a different line.

After sailing on six Disney Cruise Line voyages across four of its ships in the last few years, I've picked up a few hacks and money-saving techniques I'm happy to pass on to you. No matter if this is your first time at sea or your 99th, you can benefit from this list of 26 Disney cruise tips, tricks and secrets.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

You can find discounts on Disney Cruises

Disney cruises are generally more expensive than other family-friendly competitors such as Royal Caribbean , but there are still ways to save money on a Disney cruise . Here are some different discounts you can find for Disney Cruise Line.

When booking a Disney cruise, your best move is to book the cruise as soon as it becomes available. You'll have the best selection of cabins and generally the best prices. Sometimes, you can find discounts closer to the sailing if certain room types aren't selling as hoped.

Sail one-way

A few times a year, Disney ships based in seasonal homeports need to head toward their next cruising region. When that happens, the ships sail one-way (aka repositioning) cruises , starting in one port and ending in a different one. You can often book these one-off sailings for less money than the normal round-trip cruises that start and end in the same spot.

For example, Disney Dream will sail a three-night cruise to move it from San Juan to Ft. Lauderdale in November. You can book a cabin with a balcony for $1,580 for two people, which is a solid price on Disney Dream. The $3,326 price tag for a concierge-level cabin is very good; those cabins usually start at close to $800 to $1,000 higher on many other three-night sailings.

Remember to factor in the cost of two one-way flights when you're calculating the savings bonus of taking a one-way cruise.

Related: Ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Let Disney pick your cabin

If you're not picky about which cabin you get, an easy way to save a substantial amount of cash on your Disney cruise is to let Disney pick your cabin for you. You select a room type (such as an inside room or one with a balcony) and then let Disney assign you to a specific cabin location closer to sailing. For your flexibility, this type of guaranteed fare comes at a discount.

In the example below, you'll see the cheapest inside cabin where you pick a specific room on the ship is $2,072, while the price starts at $1,488 if you let Disney choose which inside room you get. This type of fare comes with additional restrictions, so read the fine print carefully. I've done this multiple times and have always been happy with the room location I've received.

Upgrade your room at the port for less

Depending on the ship's occupancy, it can be cheaper to upgrade your cabin at the port right before you board than in advance. There's no guarantee a better room will be available, but it can't hurt to ask when you are checking in inside the port just before boarding if nicer rooms are available.

If higher room categories have gone unsold, the check-in staff can tell you the price to upgrade to a nicer room; they can reference a spreadsheet that outlines the upgrade rates based on your current cabin and fare. In my experience, you can save up to half the cost compared to upgrading your room in advance.

Pay with points or discounted Disney gift cards

You can pay with discounted Disney gift cards to save a little money. There are many ways to do this, but stacking credit card bonus categories with discounted gift cards that can be available at places like Sam's Club or even Target can knock around 5% off the total price without too much effort.

You can also use some types of credit card points and miles to pay for a Disney cruise. For example, you can use Capital One miles from cards such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , (see rates and fees) to cover all or part of any charge that's considered a travel expense.

The Disney Visa Card also offers some onboard savings perks and you can enjoy 0% APR for six months on your Disney vacation packages from the date of purchase, after that a variable APR of 19.24%-28.24%.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

2 rooms are cheaper than a suite

If your family is considering getting a suite to spread out and have more space, but are finding the prices for Disney Cruise Line suites to be prohibitively high, consider connecting staterooms instead. A family of four can expect to spend about 50% more on connecting cabins instead of all staying in one room, which is likely a lot less than buying up to a suite which can be several times the cost of a regular room.

Get free Mickey ice cream bars (and more) from room service

Unless you're staying in a concierge-level stateroom (more on that soon), room service on a Disney cruise is relatively basic. However, it's available at no extra charge, so use it as much or as little as you like.

I'm a fan of ordering room service for a quick breakfast (or that first hit of coffee) or for a fun anytime treat of Mickey ice cream bars. I often order Uncrustables from room service the night before port days to toss in my bag for the family to eat while ashore. My girls learned how to politely call to order these by the second or third day of the cruise.

It's a common courtesy to add a few dollars for a tip to the slip that you'll sign when the order is delivered.

Order as much dinner as you want

On Disney Cruise Line, you'll be assigned a dinner rotation through the three included restaurants on the ship. Your serving team will rotate with you, which is pretty fun as they get to know you and your preferences.

Since this food is all included, don't be shy. If you can't decide between the shrimp or salmon entree, try both. Order a couple of appetizers or be daring and try a dish you've never tasted before.

When it comes time for dessert, create your own sampler-platter for the table and taste them rather than limiting yourself to one selection.

You aren't locked into your assigned dining plans

If, for some reason, your assigned order of restaurants or tablemates (if you have any) aren't working out, don't be shy about asking guest services to make alterations. They will connect you with the appropriate people within the dining team to make necessary adjustments.

New movie releases are shown in the theaters

While a movie theater may sound like a strange place to spend a few hours at sea, I recommend making time to go see a new Disney movie while on your next Disney Cruise. The ships show first-run movies, so instead of heading to your local theater to see the next Marvel, Pixar or other Disney film released close to your cruise date, save some money and enjoy the movie at sea for no extra charge.

In fact, if you are at sea when a new Disney movie premieres on land, you'll get to see it the same night on the ship, too.

It's cash-free on the ship — except for this

You don't need much cash while on a Disney cruise. Your "Key to the World" room key serves as your form of payment and identification on the ship. I highly recommend bringing a lanyard to keep track of this important card if it's your first Disney voyage. Return cruisers are given a lanyard in their cabin.

However, if you want to add an extra tip to your service team at the end of the cruise beyond the standard amount that's charged to your folio, it's nice to do that with cash. If you are staying in a concierge-level room, you may want to pack some extra cash for the concierge lounge hosts and the evening bartenders, too.

Your kids can (maybe) get into an older club

Disney Cruise Line divides kids into four age groups — the nursery (up to age 3), the primary kids club (3–12), a tween club (11–14) and a teen club (14–17). The clubs, other than the nursery, are complimentary, so the magic age for a Disney cruise begins once your child is at least 3 years old and potty-trained, so they can enjoy time in the kids clubs while you enjoy … whatever you want.

Once your kid is ready to age up to the next club, they can actually do that a little early with your permission. For example, my oldest was able to level up to the tween club at 10 years old and the teen club at 13 years old with a signed slip from me, so use (or hide) that information as it suits you best. I will say that once your kid levels up in those clubs, they probably won't go back much to the previous club.

Take note that the tween and teen clubs allow kids to come and go at will. If you need your child to be monitored, then they will need to stay in the main kids club, which is open through age 12.

Hit the pools early or late to avoid crowds

If you don't want to swim in a crowded pool or wait in a long line for a slide around the AquaDuck or AquaMouse, you'll need to employ some strategy. I recommend heading to the waterslide the second you board the ship if it is warm enough in your port, as that is as empty as it's going to get.

If you miss that window, mornings are also pretty empty, as are late afternoons as everyone starts to get ready for the evening. Avoid mid-day on sea days at all costs unless you like swimming with dozens of your new best friends.

You'll want to decorate your door

The cabin doors on a Disney cruise are almost all metal, so decorative magnets will stick to the doors nicely. Pack themed magnets to decorate your door. Not only is it fun to participate in this shipwide decoration, but the personalized door serves to help kids (or tired adults) find their cabin should they forget the room number.

You can keep things simple or order personalized magnets on a site like Etsy in advance of your sailing. You may see some doors that go all out and even have pouches with goodies in them. Those hanging pouches are known as fish extenders (as they hang off of a fish built into the ship). They often signify that the cabin is participating in a gift exchange with others on the cruise that they arranged beforehand on Facebook.

Your sailing has a Facebook group and it's worth joining

Speaking of Facebook, the odds are excellent that your individual sailing has a Facebook group with several hundred people in it. If you wish to participate in gift exchanges, get to know your shipmates pre-cruise or tap into a hive mind for advice on picking excursions and packing, it's a big asset to belong to a group specific to your sailing.

Go to Facebook and search for your sailing (e.g. Disney Wonder Alaska June 12 - 19). You'll likely find a "private" group that's not officially affiliated with the cruise line. Join the group to be kept in the loop and to drum up excitement for your trip before you set sail.

Soda is free if you know where to look

If you order a can of Coke in the dining room or from room service, it's going to cost you a few dollars, but you can get as much free soda as you want from the fountain. These are usually located on the pool deck and in the buffet area. Bring a refillable bottle so you can easily take your soda with you around the ship.

Check the app for happy hours

Alcohol isn't free on board, but you can find discounted drinks at happy hour. On my most recent Disney cruise, select drinks were 50% off from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the ship's pub. Check your Navigator app during your sailing to look for happy hours on your Disney cruise.

The best merchandise sells out

If you see a cool hat, sweatshirt or shirt you adore, buy it as soon as you spot it. The onboard gift shops are only open while the ship is at sea, and the popular items sell out (and generally don't get restocked while you're on board).

A Disney cruise is not just for families

There's no doubt that families make up a large portion of the Disney Cruise Line passenger base, but a Disney cruise is not just for kids . The ships cater to childless couples and friend groups with special spaces reserved just for grownups.

Each ship has an adults-only nightlife area and/or multiple bars and lounges to visit in the evening. An adults-only sun deck includes a pool and space to sunbathe. Each ship also has one or two adults-only restaurants you can retreat to at dinnertime if you want to ensure a high-end and kid-free meal. (You'll have to pay extra for these meals, however.)

Disney offers legitimately good liquor and tastings

On top of the cocktails and drinks you may expect, Disney ships offer some very high-end liquors on board. I shared a photo of the below beverage cart on Instagram while on a recent cruise and got dozens of messages from people shocked Disney would have Pappy's bourbon. That specific 23-year-old bottle goes for several hundred dollars per drink, and it's on board Disney cruise ships.

If you're looking for something more affordable, sign up for one of the various beverage-tasting classes on offer. Most of the tastings are $40 - $50, and you'll get to sample a few drinks, as well as learn more about wine, tequila, bourbon and other beverages.

You don't need to pay for motion sickness pills

If you find the motion of the ocean to be a bit more than you bargained for, head to guest services, and they will give you — and your kids — motion sickness pills free of charge.

Pro tip: Don't wait until you are feeling terrible to start battling any potential motion sickness . At the first signs of queasiness, seek out a remedy. Green apples and ginger candy are alternatives for travelers who prefer not to take medicine.

The concierge lounge is extra magical

If you want your own personal Fairy Godmother who all but ensures you get the bookings you want, the best meal times, coveted reservations at the adults-only restaurants and cabana access at Castaway Cay, then book yourself into a concierge-level cabin or suite.

You'll get all that, plus you can board the ship first and skip the lines when disembarking. Concierge guests get exclusive access to a lounge with included evening drinks and a private sun deck (with a hot tub on Disney Wish ). You can order meals from the onboard restaurants to your room, and hang out with a Disney character in the lounge one evening of the cruise.

Not to mention, you'll be staying in some of the nicest and largest accommodations on the ship.

Concierge-level rooms do not come cheap, but they're the way to go if you want cream-of-the-crop service on a Disney cruise. I'd venture that the added perks and extra booking window for specialty restaurants and Castaway Cay are most valuable on the shorter Disney cruises of three or four nights.

Related: What it's like on a $10,000 Disney Wish concierge cruise

Find your way by looking at the carpet

It can be disorienting at first to find your way around a cruise ship, but Disney makes it easy to know if you are heading forward or aft when you're in the long cabin hallways. If the carpet design is upside down, you're heading toward the back of the ship, but if it is right side up, you're heading to the front of the ship. In the photo below, the globe is the clue.

Late dinner is better

Disney cruise ships offer two dinner options — early or late seating. Your showtime for the evening entertainment is opposite your dinner; if you have an early dinner, you have the late show and vice versa.

It's logical to assume that an early dinner at 5:45 p.m., as opposed to late dinner at 8:15 p.m., is better if you have little kids. Having done both, I'd say that late dinner is vastly superior in most situations.

First, 5:45 p.m. is too early to have made the most of your day and be ready for dinner. With all there is to eat on the cruise, you might not even be hungry yet. Beyond that, if you aren't heading into the dark theater to see the show until 8:15 p.m., it can be hard for little ones to sit still or stay awake.

However, if you see the show first and then eat dinner, the servers are great about expressing your meal with little kids. It's better to do a quick dinner and then head to bed (or back to the kids club!) than an early dinner and miss the evening shows because your kid no longer has the ability to sit still.

The $45 adult restaurant is worth it

If you enjoy fine dining, book a fancy dinner at one of the adults-only restaurants. Depending on which ship you are on, there will be one or two restaurants that are reserved for adults — Palo and perhaps also Remy or Enchante .

Remy and Enchante are super-fancy and pricy, but Palo is approachable-fancy and costs an additional $45 per person for the set menu. It's 100% worth the money if you can get a booking.

You'll leave any cartoony trace of Disney behind as you leisurely indulge on beef tenderloin, sea scallops, grilled lobster with pasta, calamari and chocolate souffle.

The best character meetings aren't the posted ones

You'll find many character meet-and-greets on the itinerary for each day where it's known that Mickey, Donald or Minnie will be at a specific place at a specific time for a brief hello and a photo. Those meetups are great, but they are not the best character interactions you'll find on Disney Cruise Line.

The best time you'll have with characters will be when you least expect to see them. You might spot Goofy walking around in his pajamas, Donald waddling out on the deck or Minnie strolling the halls in her finest dress.

These encounters can't be planned or predicted, but without the lines and forced nature of a quick photo, the more free-form interaction with the characters is better than any planned photo sessions you'll find on land or sea.

All the characters come out to say goodbye on the last night

On the last night of each cruise, all of the classic characters come out to the atrium for a short time (15 - 20 minutes) so you can snap a quick photo with anyone you missed before they do their final farewell presentation. Check your app for this goodbye show, which usually occurs around 10 or 10:30 p.m.

Pro tip: If you have a specific character you want to photograph, ask a cast member setting up for the event where that character usually stands during photo time. That way, you can position yourself in the right area to snap a photo because the event can turn chaotic in a hurry.

Skip the debarkation line by carrying your own bags

Getting off the ship at the same time as thousands of other guests can be a buzzkill, so don't do that. If you can manage your own bags, don't put them out the night before and take them off the ship yourself the final morning.

That leaves you free to disembark as early as possible before the regular disembarkation begins, which might be around 7:30 a.m. or so, depending on the port, weather and other factors. You can avoid the crowds because you don't have to wait for your luggage to be assembled along with everyone else.

You can bring your own water and wine

If you want to have bottled water at the ready, bring a case of it onboard. It will need to be sealed in its original packaging and you have to carry it on (instead of having it in checked luggage), but it can be worth it if you want to save money for the truly yummy drinks.

If you enjoy wine or beer out on your veranda, you can save a little cash by bringing your own alcohol onboard , with limits. Guests 21 years and older may bring a maximum of two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne (no larger than 750 ml) or a six-pack of beer (no larger than 12 ounces) on board at the beginning of the voyage and at each port of call. Again, these beverages need to be carried on and not stashed in checked bags.

You can enjoy the spa without a treatment

If you love the idea of spa-like quiet and relaxation without paying around $200+ per treatment, look into the Rainforest Room in the Senses Spa, which costs much less than that per day. Depending on demand, you can book a one-day pass or get a pass that lasts the duration of your cruise. Inquire in the spa as to availability and exact pricing, but it's certainly going to be less than a spa treatment.

Each of the Disney ships has its own version of this room. On Disney Wish, the space has not only the heated loungers that are a common fixture in each of these thermal areas, but also an indoor and outdoor lounge component, a steam room, a chilled ice room and a relaxing water feature for dangling your feet.

Bottom line

You can't go wrong in booking a Disney cruise as there is already so much included and available at your fingertips. But with a little knowledge, you can skip some of the common first-timer mistakes and board like a pro, starting with your first cruise.

Related reading:

• What it's like inside the Disney Wish Star Wars-themed bar
• Everything you need to know about Disney Wish
• The best credit cards for Disney
• Best destinations you can sail to on a Disney cruise
• Everything you need to know about Disney's loyalty program
• The 2 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

Cruise Lines

When is the cheapest time to go on a disney cruise.

Ever fantasized about setting off on an enchanting Disney cruise without spending a fortune? I have some exciting news! I’ve conducted thorough research to reveal how to discover the most affordable time to embark on a journey with Mickey and his pals.

Brace yourself for an enchanting journey filled with money-saving tips and tricks. From off-peak seasons to last-minute deals, there’s a plethora of ways to make your Disney cruise more affordable.

We’ll explore the benefits of booking during the shoulder season and consider the hidden gems of repositioning cruises. Plus, I’ll reveal the importance of booking early and how to spot incredible package deals that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

So, grab your Mickey ears, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the most economical time to embark on a Disney cruise of a lifetime!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Early booking discounts offer significant savings on overall cruise costs.
• Booking early provides more cabin options and peace of mind.
• Planning around special events and holidays can maximize savings and offer unique experiences.
• Looking for package deals, special promotions, and discounts can help find the cheapest time to go on a Disney cruise.

Off-Peak Season

The cheapest time to go on a Disney cruise is during the off-peak season when prices are at their lowest. This is the perfect opportunity for budget-conscious travelers to embark on a magical adventure without breaking the bank.

Booking a cruise during the off-peak season allows you to take advantage of budget-friendly options and enjoy significant savings compared to peak travel times. Additionally, exploring alternative vacation destinations during this time can provide unique experiences and further reduce costs. From exploring the stunning beaches of the Caribbean to discovering the rich history of Europe, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Now, let’s dive into the next section about last-minute deals and how they can help you save even more on your Disney cruise vacation.

Last-Minute Deals

When it comes to finding the best deals on Disney cruises, it pays to keep an eye on last-minute discounts. These deals often appear closer to the sail date and can offer significant savings.

Being flexible with your travel dates can also work in your favor, as you may be able to take advantage of lower prices during off-peak times.

Additionally, taking advantage of cancellations and unsold cabins can lead to even more savings, as cruise lines often offer discounted rates to fill these empty spaces.

Keep an Eye on Last-Minute Discounts

If you’re flexible with your travel plans, you can score great deals on Disney cruises by keeping an eye on last-minute discounts. For example, a family who was planning a vacation in the fall decided to wait and see if any last-minute discounts would become available. They were able to book a Disney cruise for 30% off the original price by taking advantage of a last-minute deal.

Here are some exclusive promotions and limited-time offers to look out for:

Flash Sales: Disney occasionally offers flash sales with significant discounts on select cruises. These sales usually have a limited booking window, so you need to act fast.

Military Discounts: Active and retired military personnel can often enjoy exclusive promotions and discounted rates on Disney cruises.

Past Guest Offers: If you’ve previously sailed with Disney, keep an eye out for special offers and discounts available exclusively to past guests.

Seasonal Promotions: Disney may offer exclusive promotions during certain times of the year, such as holidays or off-peak seasons.

By being flexible with your travel dates, you can take advantage of these last-minute discounts and secure a fantastic deal on a Disney cruise.

Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

Being open to different travel dates can help you secure an amazing deal on a Disney cruise. When planning your trip, consider having a flexible itinerary and be willing to depart on alternative dates.

Disney cruises often offer lower prices during certain times of the year, such as off-peak seasons or weekdays. By being open to these options, you can take advantage of discounted rates and save a significant amount of money.

Additionally, keep an eye out for any special promotions or limited-time offers that may be available for specific departure dates. This way, you can maximize your savings and make the most of your Disney cruise experience.

Taking advantage of cancellations and unsold cabins is another great way to score a fantastic deal.

Take Advantage of Cancellations and Unsold Cabins

By taking advantage of cancellations and unsold cabins, travelers can find incredible bargains on their dream Disney cruise. Here are three ways to make the most of these opportunities:

Cruise Line Loyalty: Disney Cruise Line offers special discounts and perks for loyal customers. By joining their loyalty program, you can receive exclusive offers and early access to cabin availability. This increases your chances of getting a great deal.

Group Discounts: Many cruise lines, including Disney, offer discounts for group bookings. By organizing a group of friends or family members to book together, you can enjoy significant savings on your cruise fare. This is especially beneficial for larger families or groups celebrating a special occasion.

Last-Minute Deals: Keep an eye out for last-minute cancellations or unsold cabins. Cruise lines often lower prices to fill empty cabins closer to the departure date. By being flexible with your travel plans, you can take advantage of these discounted rates and save money on your Disney cruise.

Now, let’s explore the benefits of booking during the shoulder season.

Shoulder Season

During the shoulder season, you’ll find the cheapest time to go on a Disney cruise. This period typically falls between the peak seasons, which are summer and major holidays.

The shoulder season benefits you by offering lower prices, fewer crowds, and more availability. It’s the best time to book if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. The prices during the shoulder season can be significantly lower compared to peak times, allowing you to save money while still enjoying the magical experience of a Disney cruise.

To take advantage of this, it’s recommended to book your cruise well in advance to secure the best deals and cabin choices.

Once you’ve considered the benefits of the shoulder season, you can then transition into the subsequent section about considering repositioning cruises, which offer unique and affordable options for your Disney cruise experience.

Consider Repositioning Cruises

Consider repositioning cruises for your Disney cruise experience. These cruises occur when the cruise line needs to relocate their ships from one region to another. By taking advantage of a repositioning cruise, you can enjoy all the benefits of a Disney cruise, including the amazing onboard entertainment, delicious dining options, and top-notch service, while saving some money. Repositioning cruises are an excellent alternative option to experience a Disney cruise at a lower cost. They offer discounted fares to attract passengers during these transitions. However, it’s important to note that repositioning cruises may have fewer port stops and may have longer duration than regular cruises. So, it’s important to consider your preferences when planning your trip. If you’re looking for a more affordable Disney cruise option, booking early is another key step to consider.

When it comes to booking a Disney cruise, one of the best strategies is to book early. By doing so, you can secure the best deals and cabins available. Not only that, but you can also take advantage of early booking discounts that are often offered by Disney.

Planning ahead for special events and holidays is another benefit of booking early, as you can ensure that you don’t miss out on any exclusive experiences or celebrations.

So, if you want to get the most out of your Disney cruise, be sure to book early and enjoy all the perks that come with it.

Secure the Best Deals and Cabins

To secure the best deals and cabins for your Disney cruise, make sure you book early and take advantage of special promotions. Cabin selection is crucial when it comes to getting the most out of your cruise experience. By booking early, you have a better chance of choosing the cabin that suits your needs and preferences, whether it’s a spacious suite with a balcony or a cozy interior room. Additionally, booking early allows you to negotiate prices and potentially score a better deal. Disney often offers early booking discounts, which can save you a significant amount of money. By taking advantage of these discounts, you’ll have more to spend on onboard activities and experiences. So, don’t miss out on the opportunity to secure the best cabins and save money.

Take Advantage of Early Booking Discounts

Don’t miss out on the chance to score amazing deals and cabins for your Disney cruise by taking advantage of early booking discounts. Planning ahead can save you a significant amount of money, so be sure to keep an eye out for early bird discounts and limited time offers.

Here are three reasons why you should consider booking early:

Lower Prices: Early booking discounts are often offered to incentivize travelers to secure their cabins in advance. By booking early, you can take advantage of these lower prices and save on your overall cruise costs.

More Cabin Options: Booking early gives you a better chance of securing the cabin of your choice. As the cruise fills up, the availability of cabins decreases, and you may be left with limited options if you wait too long.

Peace of Mind: By booking early, you can relax knowing that your cruise is locked in and you have ample time to plan other aspects of your vacation.

So, start planning ahead for special events and holidays to ensure you get the best deals and cabins for your Disney cruise.

Plan Ahead for Special Events and Holidays

When it comes to getting the best deal on a Disney Cruise, planning ahead is key. Not only can you take advantage of early booking discounts, but you can also plan your trip around special events and holidays to maximize your savings. Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of special event cruises throughout the year, such as Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime Cruises during the holiday season. By booking one of these special event cruises, you can enjoy unique onboard activities, entertainment, and décor that are sure to make your cruise even more magical. Additionally, Disney Cruise Line often offers holiday cruise packages that include special perks and savings. By planning ahead and booking a cruise during a special event or holiday, you can make the most of your Disney Cruise experience while saving money. And speaking of saving money, the next step is to look for package deals that can help you get the most bang for your buck.

Look for Package Deals

If you’re looking for the cheapest time to go on a Disney cruise, you’ll want to check out the package deals available. Vacation packages can offer significant savings compared to booking each component separately.

Disney Cruise Line often offers special promotions and discounts on their website, so make sure to keep an eye out for those. Additionally, consider traveling with a group to take advantage of group discounts. Many travel agencies and tour operators offer group rates for Disney cruises, which can help lower the overall cost per person.

It’s also worth noting that certain times of the year, such as the off-peak season or weekdays, tend to have lower prices. By looking for package deals and considering group discounts, you can find the cheapest time to go on a Disney cruise and make the most of your vacation budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any additional costs or fees to consider when booking a disney cruise during the off-peak season.

During the off-peak season, there may be additional costs or fees to consider when booking a Disney cruise. These can include higher prices for certain activities, specialty dining, and optional excursions. It’s important to factor these expenses into your budget.

Can I expect the same level of entertainment and activities on a Disney cruise during the shoulder season as I would during the peak season?

During the shoulder season on a Disney cruise, you can still expect a wide range of entertainment options, although they may be slightly reduced compared to the peak season. Activities are generally comparable, but with fewer crowds.

What are some advantages of booking a repositioning cruise for a Disney cruise vacation?

Advantages of booking a repositioning cruise for a Disney vacation include unique itineraries, lower prices, and fewer crowds. Repositioning cruises offer a chance to explore different destinations while enjoying the same level of entertainment and activities.

Are there any disadvantages or limitations to booking a last-minute deal for a Disney cruise?

There are some disadvantages and limitations to booking a last-minute deal for a Disney cruise. These may include limited cabin availability, higher prices, and fewer options for dining and entertainment reservations.

Can I still get a good deal on a Disney cruise if I book early, or are there better prices available closer to the departure date?

By booking a Disney cruise early, you can save money and have access to a wider range of cabin options. However, last-minute deals might offer better prices. Entertainment options are available year-round, making off-peak seasons a great value.

In conclusion, finding the cheapest time to go on a Disney cruise requires some strategic planning. By considering off-peak seasons, taking advantage of last-minute deals, and exploring shoulder seasons, you can save a significant amount of money.

Additionally, keep an eye out for repositioning cruises, which often offer discounted rates. Booking early and looking for package deals can also help you secure the best prices.

Remember, with a little research and flexibility, you can embark on a magical Disney cruise without breaking the bank!

Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.

With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

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Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform. With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

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Viking cruises: leading the luxury travel industry.

As an enthusiastic world traveler, I constantly search for opulent experiences that satisfy my urge to discover new places.

And when it comes to leading the luxury travel industry, Viking Cruises is a name that consistently stands out. With their award-winning reputation, they have set the standard for both river and ocean cruises.

From being named the Best Luxury River Cruise Company to receiving accolades for their exceptional contributions to the industry, Viking Cruises continues to impress.

Join me as we explore the world in comfort and style with Viking Cruises.

• Viking Cruises has received numerous awards and recognition for its luxury river and ocean cruises, including being named the Best Luxury River Cruise Company multiple times.
• The company is committed to providing exceptional comfort and exploration experiences for its guests, and this mission resonates with both travelers and experts in the luxury travel industry.
• Viking Cruises has experienced significant growth and development, celebrating its 25th anniversary and achieving record-breaking bookings. The company has also expanded its fleet with the addition of 17 new ships, including eight Viking Longships on European rivers and vessels on the Mekong, Nile, and Mississippi rivers.
• Viking Cruises’ success and impact in the luxury travel industry are reinforced by its exceptional contributions, fleet expansion, and new ship launches. The company continues to be a leading choice for luxury travel experiences.

Viking Cruises’ Award-Winning Reputation

I’m proud to say that Viking Cruises has been awarded Best Luxury River Cruise Company eight times, solidifying our reputation as a leader in the luxury travel industry.

This recognition speaks to our industry influence and our commitment to customer satisfaction. Viking Cruises has consistently been recognized for our exceptional contributions to the luxury travel industry, receiving accolades from esteemed sources such as Luxury Travel Advisor and Food & Wine.

As Chairman of Viking Cruises, I am delighted to see our mission of exploring the world in comfort resonating with both our guests and experts in the industry.

Our growth and recent developments, including our 25th anniversary celebration and the addition of 17 new ships, further contribute to our impact on the luxury travel industry.

Viking Cruises continues to be the leading choice for those seeking unforgettable luxury travel experiences.

Setting the Standard in Luxury River and Ocean Cruises

Setting the standard in river and ocean cruises is a proud achievement for any company.

Viking Cruises has not only achieved this, but they have also set a new benchmark for luxury travel experiences. With their innovative approach and unparalleled customer service, Viking Cruises has transformed the cruise industry.

They have redefined luxury by offering unique and immersive experiences that cater to the discerning traveler. From their state-of-the-art ships to their carefully crafted itineraries, every aspect of a Viking cruise is designed to provide the utmost comfort and exploration.

Their commitment to excellence is evident in the numerous awards and accolades they have received. Viking Cruises continues to lead the way in luxury river and ocean cruises, making them the top choice for travelers seeking extraordinary experiences.

Consistent Excellence: Viking Cruises’ Best Luxury River Cruise Company Award

Receiving the Best Luxury River Cruise Company award for the eighth time is a testament to the consistent excellence of Viking Cruises. This recognition highlights Viking Cruises’ commitment to exceptional service and comfort, solidifying their impact on the luxury travel market.

Viking Cruises has proven time and again that they are dedicated to providing the utmost comfort and exploration to their guests. Chairman Torstein Hagen expresses pride in the recognition, as it resonates with both guests and experts in the luxury travel industry.

With their recent growth and developments, including their 25th anniversary celebration and the addition of 17 new ships, Viking Cruises continues to expand their influence. Their fleet expansion and new ship launches contribute to their status as a leading choice for luxury travel experiences.

Recognized for Exceptional Contributions to Luxury Travel

Recognized for my exceptional contributions to the world of luxury travel, I am proud to have made a lasting impact on the industry. Viking Cruises has not only established itself as a leader in luxury river and ocean voyages but has also taken significant initiatives towards sustainable travel and customer satisfaction.

In terms of sustainable travel, Viking Cruises has implemented various practices to minimize its environmental footprint. The company has invested in energy-efficient engines and onboard technologies to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, Viking Cruises has partnered with local communities to support cultural preservation and conservation efforts in the destinations it visits.

To ensure customer satisfaction, Viking Cruises has focused on providing exceptional experiences and personalized service. The company’s commitment to comfort and exploration is evident in its luxurious accommodations and curated itineraries. Viking Cruises also values feedback from its guests, constantly striving to improve its offerings based on customer preferences and suggestions.

Through its impact on sustainable travel and dedication to customer satisfaction, Viking Cruises continues to set the standard in the luxury travel industry.

A Culinary Delight: Viking Cruises Named Best Cruise Line by Food & Wine

As a lover of fine dining, being named Best Cruise Line by Food & Wine is an exciting recognition for the incredible culinary experiences offered by Viking Cruises.

This accolade showcases the commitment of Viking Cruises to providing exceptional food and beverage options to its guests. The luxury travel industry is currently witnessing a growing trend towards culinary experiences, where travelers seek out unique and exquisite dining opportunities during their journeys.

Viking Cruises has embraced this trend by offering a wide range of gourmet dining options, including specialty restaurants, farm-to-table experiences, and wine tastings. The cruise line’s dedication to culinary excellence has resonated with travelers, making it a leading choice for those seeking luxurious and unforgettable dining experiences while exploring the world.

Viking Cruises’ recognition as Best Cruise Line by Food & Wine further solidifies its position as a pioneer in luxury travel trends.

Health and Wellness: Best River Cruise Line According to Women’s Health

Being named the Best River Cruise Line by Women’s Health is a testament to the commitment to health and wellness that resonates with travelers. Viking Cruises understands the importance of prioritizing the well-being of its guests and has implemented various health and wellness benefits on its cruises.

From nutritious dining options to onboard fitness facilities, Viking Cruises ensures that travelers have access to resources that support their physical and mental well-being. Customer testimonials further reinforce the positive impact of these initiatives, with guests praising the cruise line for promoting a healthy lifestyle and providing opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Celebrating 25 Years of Success and Unprecedented Performance

I’m proud to celebrate 25 years of success and unprecedented performance in the cruise industry.

Impact on sustainable tourism: Viking Cruises has made a significant impact on sustainable tourism with its commitment to environmental responsibility. From implementing energy-efficient technologies on its ships to reducing single-use plastics, Viking Cruises is leading the way in sustainable cruising.

Innovations in onboard amenities: Viking Cruises has revolutionized the cruise industry with its innovative onboard amenities. From spacious staterooms with verandas to world-class dining options and luxurious spa facilities, Viking Cruises ensures that guests have a truly exceptional experience onboard their ships.

Unmatched customer satisfaction: Viking Cruises’ dedication to delivering unparalleled customer satisfaction has been a key factor in its success. The company consistently receives top marks and awards for its exceptional service, attention to detail, and commitment to creating unforgettable travel experiences.

As we celebrate this milestone, I’m excited to see what the future holds for Viking Cruises and how it will continue to shape the luxury travel industry.

Unprecedented Growth: Viking Cruises’ Expanding Fleet

With the addition of 17 new ships since 2020, the fleet of Viking Cruises continues to expand at an unprecedented rate. This fleet expansion is a testament to Viking Cruises’ commitment to providing exceptional luxury travel experiences.

The new ship launches have allowed Viking Cruises to offer even more opportunities for exploration and comfort to its guests. These additions include eight Viking Longships on European rivers, as well as new vessels deployed on the Mekong, Nile, and Mississippi rivers.

This growth not only reinforces Viking Cruises’ influence in the luxury travel industry but also solidifies its position as a leading choice for unforgettable travel experiences.

The continuous expansion of the fleet demonstrates Viking Cruises’ dedication to meeting the increasing demand for luxury cruising and ensuring that guests have access to the best possible travel options.

Exploring the World in Comfort With Viking Cruises

After discussing the unprecedented growth of Viking Cruises’ expanding fleet, let’s now delve into the unmatched luxury and unforgettable adventures that await travelers with Viking Cruises.

Unmatched luxury: Viking Cruises’ commitment to providing unparalleled comfort and luxury experiences.

Unforgettable adventures: Exploring the world’s most remarkable destinations in style with Viking Cruises.

Impeccable service: Attentive and personalized service from a dedicated crew.

Sophisticated accommodations: Luxurious staterooms and suites with elegant design and modern amenities.

Culinary delights: Savor gourmet cuisine prepared by world-class chefs using locally sourced ingredients.

Cultural immersion: Engage in authentic experiences and cultural enrichment programs at every port of call.

Viking Cruises’ dedication to comfort and exploration has resonated with both guests and experts in the luxury travel industry. With their continuous fleet expansion and introduction of new ships, Viking Cruises remains a leading choice for those seeking unforgettable luxury travel experiences.

Viking Cruises: A Driving Force in the Luxury Travel Industry

Having made exceptional contributions to the world of luxury travel, Viking Cruises has become a driving force in the industry. With their innovative approach to luxury cruising, they have made a significant impact on sustainable luxury travel.

Viking Cruises’ commitment to sustainability is evident in their fleet expansion and new ship launches, which prioritize environmentally friendly practices. They have introduced state-of-the-art technology and design elements that reduce their carbon footprint and minimize environmental impact. By incorporating renewable energy sources and implementing waste management systems, Viking Cruises sets the standard for sustainable luxury travel.

Their dedication to providing unforgettable experiences to travelers, while also protecting the environment, has solidified their position as a leading choice for luxury travel. With their continuous growth and focus on sustainability, Viking Cruises continues to shape the future of the luxury travel industry.

What are the similarities and differences between Viking Cruises and Seabourn in the luxury travel industry?

When comparing Viking Cruises and Seabourn in the luxury travel industry, it’s clear that both offer exceptional experiences tailored to discerning travelers. However, Viking Cruises emphasizes cultural enrichment and immersive experiences, while Seabourn focuses on personalized service and intimate luxury, with Natalya Leahy leading luxury cruise experiences for both companies.

What Are Some of the Other Categories in Which Viking Cruises Received Accolades in the 2023 Cruisers Choice Awards by Cruise Critic?

Viking Cruises received accolades in various categories at the 2023 Cruisers Choice Awards by Cruise Critic. From innovative itineraries to the impact of their sustainability practices, they continue to impress and lead the industry.

How Many New Ships Has Viking Cruises Added to Its Fleet Since 2020?

Since 2020, Viking Cruises has added 17 new ships to its fleet, contributing to its growth and impact on customer satisfaction. The expansion reflects their commitment to providing exceptional luxury travel experiences.

Which Rivers Have Viking Cruises Recently Introduced New Vessels On?

Viking Cruises recently introduced new vessels on the Mekong, Nile, and Mississippi rivers. These expansions are part of Viking Cruises’ overall growth and impact on the luxury river cruise market.

How Does Viking Cruises’ Mission Resonate With Guests and Experts in the Luxury Travel Industry?

Viking Cruises’ mission resonates with guests and experts in the luxury travel industry due to their commitment to excellence. They set themselves apart by providing exceptional experiences and exploring the world in comfort.

Where Can I Find the Complete List of Winners for the 2023 Awards of Excellence?

You can find the complete list of winners for the 2023 awards of excellence on Luxury Travel Advisor’s website. It includes the winners in various categories, including Viking Cruises.

Wonder of the Seas: A Spectacular Inaugural Voyage

I experienced an incredible journey on the inaugural trip of the Wonder of the Seas! Honestly, it was absolutely marvelous.

This massive cruise ship, with its capacity of 6,988 guests, took me on a thrilling 7-day journey through Labadee, Haiti, Coco Cay, San Juan, and Nassau.

From the bustling excitement on the Deck 5 promenade to the lush oasis of the Central Park on Deck 8, there was never a dull moment.

Get ready to hear all about the high energy, excitement, and whirlwind of activities and entertainment that awaited me on this remarkable voyage.

• The Wonder of the Seas has a maximum guest capacity of 6,988 and is 1,188 feet long.
• The ship’s inaugural cruise is a 7-day itinerary that includes stops at Labadee, Haiti and Coco Cay.
• The first night of the cruise offers exciting activities and there are attractions on Deck 5 promenade and in the Boardwalk Neighborhood.
• The ship features a Central Park on Deck 8 and a variety of dining options including the main dining room and Park Cafe.

The Impressive Size of Wonder of the Seas

I can’t believe the Wonder of the Seas has a max guest capacity of 6,988. It measures 1,188 feet in length and 210 feet in width, making it incredibly impressive compared to other cruise ships.

Its size and dimensions are truly awe-inspiring. The sheer number of guests it can accommodate is remarkable, ensuring that there is always a vibrant and lively atmosphere onboard.

With its length of 1,188 feet, the Wonder of the Seas stands tall and majestic, dominating the seas. Its width of 210 feet allows for spacious and comfortable accommodations for all guests.

This colossal ship is a marvel of engineering, providing an unforgettable experience for those fortunate enough to embark on its remarkable voyage.

Exciting 7 Day Inaugural Cruise Itinerary

Embarking on the 7-day inaugural cruise, I eagerly anticipate stops in Labadee, Haiti and Coco Cay, as well as visits to San Juan and Nassau. These destinations offer a plethora of excursions and attractions, from exploring the vibrant streets of San Juan to ziplining through the breathtaking scenery of Labadee.

Onboard, the dining options and culinary experiences are equally impressive. The main dining room offers a mouthwatering array of dishes, while the specialty restaurants like Giovannis and Chops Grille provide a more intimate and gourmet dining experience.

The Deck 5 Boardwalk Neighborhood is a hub of activity, with the Aquatheater and The Abyss dry slide providing thrilling entertainment. And on Deck 8, the Terrace bar and Park Cafe offer stunning views of the Caribbean waves, perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or sunset drink.

This inaugural cruise promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with exciting excursions and delectable dining options.

Explore the Boardwalk Neighborhood on Deck 5

The Boardwalk Neighborhood on Deck 5 is filled with thrilling entertainment options. The Aquatheater is a jaw-dropping venue where you can witness incredible performances that combine acrobatics, diving, and high diving into a massive pool. It’s like watching a live show right on the ship!

And if you’re looking to add a little adventure to your day, The Abyss dry slide is the perfect choice. It’s a thrilling ride that takes you down 10 decks in just a few seconds.

After all the excitement, you can indulge in the main dining options available in the neighborhood. From delicious seafood to mouthwatering steaks, there’s something for every palate.

The Boardwalk Neighborhood truly offers an unforgettable experience for all.

Convenience and Delights of Deck 8

Convenience and delights await on Deck 8. This deck offers a variety of stateroom categories, including cozy interior staterooms and luxurious suites with private balconies. Whether you’re looking for spacious accommodations with modern amenities or intimate rooms for a romantic getaway, Deck 8 has something for everyone.

On Deck 8, you’ll also find a range of delicious dining options. Restaurants like Giovannis and Chops Grille offer mouthwatering meals that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. And when you’re ready to relax and take in the beautiful views of the Caribbean waves, head to the Terrace bar. This bar offers a relaxing and picturesque atmosphere, where you can sip your favorite cocktail and feel the warm ocean breeze on your face. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing drink with friends or loved ones.

Deck 8 is truly a haven of convenience and enjoyment. With its delightful terrace bar experience and variety of stateroom options, this deck ensures a memorable and comfortable cruise experience. So don’t miss out on the chance to indulge in the wonders that await you on Deck 8.

Overall Experience of Wonder of the Seas

I was blown away by the high energy and excitement throughout my cruise on Wonder of the Seas. From the moment I stepped onboard, I could feel the anticipation in the air.

The cruise ship amenities were top-notch, catering to every guest’s needs and desires. Customer reviews had raved about the incredible experiences, and I soon understood why.

The ship’s size was impressive, with a max guest capacity of 6,988 and a length of 1,188 feet. The bustling Deck 5 promenade was a hub of activity, offering a variety of shops and entertainment options. The Boardwalk Neighborhood on Deck 5 was a must-visit, with its Aquatheater and The Abyss dry slide.

The stunning Central Park on Deck 8 provided a lush garden atmosphere, complete with live plants. The convenience of Deck 8 was unbeatable, with a variety of stateroom categories, multiple specialty restaurants, and breathtaking views of the Caribbean waves.

Throughout the entire cruise, the energy and excitement never waned, making it an unforgettable experience.

High Energy and Entertainment

From the moment I stepped onboard, the energy and excitement on Wonder of the Seas were palpable, creating an atmosphere of non-stop fun and entertainment.

The ship truly lives up to its name, offering an array of high-energy nightlife options and captivating live performances. Whether you’re in the mood for dancing the night away at the vibrant nightclubs, enjoying live music performances at the various venues, or catching a thrilling Broadway-style show at the theater, there is something for everyone.

The nightlife on Wonder of the Seas is truly unmatched, with a diverse range of experiences to choose from. You can sip cocktails at the trendy bars, try your luck at the casino, or simply enjoy the electric atmosphere as you stroll through the bustling promenade.

No matter how you choose to spend your evenings, the ship promises to keep you entertained from dusk till dawn.

Thrilling Adventures and Activities

After experiencing the high energy and excitement of the Wonder of the Seas, I was eager to explore more of the thrilling adventures and activities onboard.

One of the highlights was the Aqua Theater, a magnificent venue where I witnessed jaw-dropping acrobatic performances and high dives into a sparkling pool.

The Abyss dry slide, on the other hand, provided an adrenaline rush as I slid down 10 decks in a matter of seconds.

As for dining, the main dining experience surpassed all expectations. The elegant ambiance, impeccable service, and delectable cuisine made every meal a memorable occasion. From mouthwatering appetizers to delightful desserts, the flavors were simply exquisite.

Whether you’re seeking exhilarating entertainment or indulging in a culinary delight, the Wonder of the Seas offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Anticipation for Ship Review on Porthole.com

Anticipating the ship review on Porthole.com, I’m excited to read about the experiences of other passengers and gain insights into the various aspects of the cruise.

The upcoming cruise reviews will provide a window into the wonders of the Wonder of the Seas. As the launch date approaches, my anticipation grows. I can’t wait to hear about the stunning size of the ship, with its max guest capacity of 6,988 and impressive length of 1,188 feet.

I’m eager to learn about the 7-day inaugural cruise itinerary, with its stops at Labadee, Haiti and Coco Cay, as well as the bustling Deck 5 promenade and the exciting activities on the first night.

And of course, I’m curious about the Boardwalk Neighborhood on Deck 5, with its Aquatheater and The Abyss dry slide, as well as the delicious food in the main dining room and the lush garden atmosphere of Central Park on Deck 8.

I’m also looking forward to hearing about the convenience of Deck 8, with its variety of stateroom categories, terrace bar, and Park Cafe.

And lastly, I’m eager to read about the overall experience of the cruise, with its high energy and excitement, limited face mask requirements for crew members, whirlwind of activities and entertainment, and thrilling adventures like the Dragons Breath zipline in Labadee.

The ship review on Porthole.com will surely satisfy my anticipation and provide a glimpse into the wonders that await on the Wonder of the Seas.

What Are the Dining Options Available on Wonder of the Seas?

There are a variety of dining options available on Wonder of the Seas, offering a wide range of cuisine. From the main dining room to specialty restaurants, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Can You Provide More Details About the Aquatheater and the Abyss Dry Slide in the Boardwalk Neighborhood?

The Aquatheater on Boardwalk is a thrilling spectacle, with high-diving acrobats and water shows that will leave you in awe. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the Abyss dry slide offers an exhilarating experience like no other.

Are There Any Specific Activities or Events Planned for the First Night of the Inaugural Cruise?

On the first night of the inaugural cruise, there will be a variety of activities and events to kick off the voyage with excitement. Guests can look forward to entertainment shows, themed parties, and delicious dining options.

What Are the Different Stateroom Categories Available on Deck 8?

On deck 8, there are different stateroom categories available, including Oceanview and Balcony rooms. These options provide stunning views of the ocean and allow for a relaxing and enjoyable cruise experience.

How Does the Embarkation Process on Wonder of the Seas Differ From Other Cruise Ships?

The embarkation process on Wonder of the Seas is smooth and efficient, setting it apart from other cruise ships. The boarding experience is quick and hassle-free, allowing guests to start their vacation without delay.

What Insider Secrets Were Revealed During the Inaugural Voyage of Wonder of the Seas?

Curious travelers eagerly awaited the wonder of the seas insider secrets during the inaugural voyage. From hidden lounges to exclusive dining experiences, guests were delighted by the behind-the-scenes access to the ship’s most prized offerings. The insider knowledge added an extra layer of excitement to the already spectacular journey.

In conclusion, my experience on the Wonder of the Seas was absolutely incredible.

From the moment I stepped on board, I was blown away by the impressive size of the ship and the bustling energy on Deck 5.

Exploring the Boardwalk Neighborhood was like stepping into a thrilling amusement park, with attractions like the Aquatheater and The Abyss dry slide.

Deck 8 offered a beautiful oasis in the form of Central Park, with its lush gardens and stunning views.

Overall, the cruise was a whirlwind of high energy and excitement, with thrilling adventures and activities at every turn.

I can’t wait to read the ship review on Porthole.com and relive the memories of this spectacular inaugural voyage.

What’s Included and Not Included in Your Cruise Fare!

I can’t wait to set sail on the cruise vacation of my dreams!

But before I embark on this exciting adventure, I need to know exactly what’s included and not included in my cruise fare.

From the comfort of my cabin to the delicious food options and thrilling entertainment, I want to make sure I have all the information I need to plan my budget.

So, let’s dive in and explore what’s included and what’s not in my cruise fare!

• Cabin is included in the fare but amenities vary depending on cruise line and cabin type.
• Buffet offers a wide selection of international dishes, while specialty restaurants come at an additional cost.
• Free shows and entertainment are included, but paid activities such as go-karts and simulated skydiving are available for an extra charge.
• Gratuities, spa treatments, and extra activities like go-karts and roller coasters are not included in the cruise fare and require separate payment.

Cabin and Accommodations

The cabin is included in the fare, so I don’t have to worry about any extra charges for my room. It’s great to know that I can enjoy a comfortable and cozy space without any additional costs.

The cabin amenities vary depending on the cruise line and the type of cabin chosen. Typically, cabins come with standard features such as a bed, storage space, a private bathroom, and a television. Some higher-end cabins may offer additional amenities like a balcony, mini-fridge, or even a butler service.

As for room service options, many cruise lines offer 24-hour room service, allowing passengers to order food and beverages directly to their cabin. It’s a convenient option for those who prefer dining in the privacy of their own room.

Food and Dining Options

I love the variety of food options available on a cruise, from the buffet to the main dining room.

The buffet is a great option for those who want a wide selection of dishes to choose from. They usually offer a range of cuisines, including international dishes, salads, soups, and desserts. It’s a casual dining experience where you can try a little bit of everything.

On the other hand, specialty restaurants are a more upscale option. These restaurants often have a specific theme or cuisine, such as Italian, steakhouse, or seafood. While these restaurants come at an additional cost, they provide a more intimate and gourmet dining experience.

Whether you prefer the variety of the buffet or the elegance of the specialty restaurants, there are plenty of dining options to satisfy every palate on a cruise.

Entertainment and Activities

With a wide range of entertainment shows, activities, and movies, there is never a dull moment on a cruise ship. Here are some key things to know about the entertainment and activities on board:

Free shows: Cruise ships offer a variety of free entertainment shows, including Broadway-style performances, live music, comedy shows, and magic acts. These shows are included in the fare and provide great entertainment for guests of all ages.

Paid activities: While many activities on the ship are included in the fare, there are also some paid activities available for an additional charge. These can include go-karts, simulated skydiving, and even roller coasters. These activities offer a unique and thrilling experience for those looking for a little extra excitement on their cruise.

Additional Charges and Gratuities

When it comes to additional charges on a cruise, it’s important to be aware of the cost of specialty restaurants and gratuities. Specialty restaurants offer a more upscale dining experience and usually have a cover charge. These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines and are a great option for a special night out. Gratuities, on the other hand, are the service charges that are automatically added to your onboard account. These charges typically amount to around $15 per person, per day, and are distributed among the ship’s staff. It’s important to budget for these charges as they are not included in the cruise fare. Additionally, spa treatments and services are not included in the fare and also come with an additional cost. So, be sure to factor in these extra charges when planning your cruise budget.

Keywords: specialty restaurants, gratuities, spa treatments.

Extra Activities and Excursions

Go-karts, simulated skydiving, and roller coasters are some of the extra activities on a cruise that may require an additional charge. These paid activities provide an exciting and thrilling experience for passengers seeking adventure on their vacation. Cruise lines offer a variety of options to cater to different interests and age groups. From high-speed go-kart races to indoor simulated skydiving, these activities add an extra level of excitement to the onboard experience.

However, it is important to note that these activities are not included in the cruise fare and require separate payment. Additionally, when the ship docks at various ports, passengers have the opportunity to participate in shore excursions. These excursions, which are organized by the cruise line, offer a range of activities and experiences at the destinations visited, such as guided tours, water sports, and cultural explorations.

Similar to the paid activities onboard, shore excursions also require separate payment. It is advisable to plan and budget accordingly to enjoy these additional experiences during your cruise.

What Is Typically Included in a Cruise Fare?

When booking a Carnival Cruise, inclusions vary. Generally, the fare covers accommodation, dining, on-board entertainment, and access to amenities like pools and fitness centers. However, it’s important to check if alcohol, specialty dining, excursions, and gratuities are included or come at an additional cost.

Are There Any Additional Charges for Using the Gym on the Cruise Ship?

Yes, there may be additional charges for using the gym on the cruise ship. However, there are usually membership options available that allow guests to use the gym for free, just like in a resort.

Are Tender Boats Available for Free During Port Visits?

Yes, tender boats are available for free during port visits. They are included in the cruise fare and run the entire time the ship is in port. There are no additional fees for using them.

Do Specialty Restaurants on the Cruise Ship Require an Extra Charge?

Yes, specialty restaurants on the cruise ship require an extra charge. However, there are still plenty of included dining options. Onboard entertainment, such as daily shows and activities, is included in the fare.

Are Spa Treatments and Services Included in the Cruise Fare?

Spa treatments and services, like massages and facials, are not included in the cruise fare. They come with additional charges. However, the gym is free to use and offers great views.

Are There Any Additional Charges for Activities Like Go-Karts or Simulated Skydiving on the Ship?

Yes, there are additional charges for activities like go-karts and simulated skydiving on the ship. These are considered specialty activities and are not included in the cruise fare.

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Save money, experience more.

Disney Cruise Deals – Top Ways to Get Discounts on a Disney Cruise

Setting sail with Disney Cruise Line is one of the most magical ways to vacation at sea. As soon as you board the ship on embarkation day, you’re treated like royalty. It all starts with a majestic name announcement as you enter the Grand Hall for the first time. From that point on, you’ll enjoy a cruise of a lifetime that’s filled with the Disney Difference. With character experiences, entertainment, activities, dining, clubs, and so much more, you’ll be ready to book another Disney Cruise before you disembark which means finding the best Disney Cruise deals is essential!

There is so much that’s included in the price of a Disney Cruise. Later on in this article, I will go into further detail about everything that’s included. For this reason, a Disney Cruise can arguably be a more affordable Disney vacation than a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World . However, saving even more money when possible is always a plus! Great deals and discounts can be a lifesaver .

In this article, I’m going to dive into different savings and discounts that are available for Disney Cruise Line.  I will go over different types of deals, where to get them, and how you can get assistance with planning your Disney Cruise. Keep reading to sea all of the wonders that come along with a Disney Cruise as well as ways to save!

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In this planning guide:

Book Your Disney Cruise Adventure Now!

No matter what level of cruiser you are, Get Away Today is ready to help! Whether this is your first time sailing with Disney Cruise Line, your first cruise in general, or if you’ve gone on many cruises before, a Get Away Today agent will be able to assist with all of your needs. Your agent will help you pick the perfect sailing length, destination, stateroom, Port Adventures, and anything else you may need. They will handle all of the details of vacation planning so you can simply enjoy your magical Disney Cruise!

Even if you’re an experienced cruiser, Get Away Today’s agents can add so much value to your trip! With their experienced travel professionals in your corner, you’ll be able to rest assured that you are in good hands. Their industry knowledge of Disney Cruise Line will be put to use to help you plan the perfect trip for you and the rest of your party. Not only will you have continued support from the time you start planning with them, they will also be available to help you during your cruise and after you return back home.

You can view the currently available dates for  Disney Cruises 2024 and Disney Cruises 2025 in our guides. After viewing the dates be sure to come back and request a FREE quote from our travel partner for your cruise .  For a limited time, Mickey Visit readers get up to a $400 onboard credit.

Even though you may have gone on many Disney Cruises and are comfortable with booking your own trip, using an agent from Get Away Today offers you convenience and relief of stress that comes along with vacation planning. You won’t have to take the time to plan, book, remember deadlines and payments, or any other details.

Disney Cruise Line Price Factors

Before we look at the discounts and special offers that are available for Disney Cruises, let’s first take a look at how much a Disney Cruise costs without any discounts. Unlike theme park tickets, there isn’t one specific price that I’m able to list that will cover all of the available cruises. The price of a Disney Cruise varies depending on a few factors. The price of a cruise will be affected by things such as travel dates, how many nights you’re sailing, destination, how many Guests are in your party, if you’re sailing on a standard or specialty cruise, which ship you’re sailing on, and what level of stateroom you want to stay in.

There are ten destinations that Disney Cruise Line sails to.

• Alaska Cruises
• Bahama Cruises
• Caribbean Cruises
• Europe Cruises
• Hawai’i Cruises
• Mexico Cruises
• New Zealand and Australia Cruises
• Pacific Coast Cruises
• South Pacific Cruises
• Transatlantic Cruises

Not only are there many destinations that Disney Cruise Line sails to, there are also fifteen ports that Disney Cruise Line departs from!

• Auckland, New Zealand
• Barcelona, Spain
• Brisbane, Australia
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Galveston, Texas
• Honolulu, Hawai’i
• Melbourne, Australia
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Port Canaveral, Florida
• San Diego, California
• San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Southampton, England
• Sydney, Australia
• Vancouver (British Columbia), Canada

Currently, Disney Cruise Line has six ships in its fleet. These ships are:

• Disney Magic
• Disney Wonder
• Disney Dream
• Disney Fantasy
• Disney Wish
• Disney Treasure

When it comes to staterooms, there are four different levels that you can choose from: Inside, Oceanview, Verandah, and Concierge. Inside Staterooms are on the innermost part of the ship. They are adorned with porthole mirrors, but have no actual view of the outdoors. Oceanview Staterooms have at least one (possibly two) porthole windows that give you beautiful views of the open ocean when you’re out at sea. As the name suggests, Verandah Staterooms have their own private verandahs. These are open-air balconies that provide you with a place to sit and take in the exquisite views that you’ll have. Verandah Staterooms are also the largest of the non-Concierge level staterooms. Concierge Staterooms are the most upscale (and priciest) stateroom option. These staterooms come with premium amenities and services. They also have large private verandahs.

How Much is a Disney Cruise?

Since there are so many different factors that could predict the price of your Disney Cruise, I’m going to pull up a quote for one specific cruise. This will give you a general idea of how much Disney Cruises cost without any discounts.

For this example, I’m looking at a 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral for 4 Guests from September 14th-21st, 2024 on the Disney Fantasy (This is also a Halloween on the High Seas sailing.)

• Inside – $5,575
• Oceanview – $6,359
• Verandah – $6,457
• Concierge – $16,859

These prices are for all 4 Guests, including Taxes, Fees, & Port Expenses.

For this specific cruise, the price per Guest is:

• Inside – $1,393.75
• Oceanview – $1,589.75
• Verandah – $1,614.25
• Concierge – $4,214.75

Let's not forget everything that’s included in the price of a Disney Cruise! This price not only already reflects all of the taxes, fees, and expenses for a 7-Night specialty Caribbean Disney Cruise, but it also includes all of the Disney Cruise Line inclusive benefits!

Read more about the full breakdown of what a Disney Cruise costs in our guide. 

Disney Cruise Line Special Offers

When looking for discounts and deals on your Disney Cruise, make sure that you take a look at what special offers Disney Cruise Line has. Currently, Disney Cruise Line has seven special offers available. These offers range from a deposit promo, to resident discounts, Military discounts, and more! Let’s take a look at what’s available.

50% Off Required Deposit – LIMITED TIME OFFER – Book a Disney Cruise by February 16th, 2024 and only pay half of the required deposit. This offer is valid for new reservations only for sailings that take place between June 17th, 2024 and May 31st, 2025. (The regular deposit amount for a Disney Cruise is 20% of your reservation amount. Book your cruise with this special offer and your deposit amount will only be 10% of your reservation total!)

Save Up to 30% on Select Sailings – For this deal, there are a number of select sailings with discounts available. The highest amount off is 30%. This offer is valid only for new bookings and non-Concierege level staterooms. If you’re using this deal, full payment is required at the time of booking.

• 15-Night South Pacific Cruise ending in Honolulu
• 4-Night Bahamian Cruise
• 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise with Pixar Day at Sea
• 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise with Pixar Day at Sea
• 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise
• 13-Night Eastbound Transatlantic Cruise ending in Barcelona
• 12-Night Norwegian Fjords and Iceland Cruise

Florida Residents Save Up to 25% – Florida Residents can save on select Caribbean Cruises with this Disney Cruise Line deal.

• More Florida Resident rates are also available for a 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral with Pixar Day at Sea on February 24th, 2024

Save up to 25% on Select 2024 European Sailings – This offer is valid only for new bookings and non-Concierge level staterooms. If you’re using this deal, full payment is required at the time of booking.

• 13-Night Norwegian Fjords and Iceland Cruise

U.S. Military Rates

Special rates for Disney Cruises are available for U.S. Military members. These rates are available for select cruises and can only be applied to new bookings. Military discounted rates are limited to one stateroom per military member, per sailing.

• 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise

Save Up to 30% on Select Australia Sailings – This offer is valid only for new bookings and non-Concierge level staterooms. If you’re using this deal, full payment is required at the time of booking.

Canadian Residents Save Up to 25% – Canadian Residents can save up to 25% on multiple different cruises. This offer is good for select 2024 sail dates.

• 7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Cast Away Club Rewards

Disney Cruise Line has a rewards program called Castaway Club . The more cruises that you sail on with Disney, the more rewards you’ll receive! All you need to do to become a member is sail one time with Disney Cruise Line.

There are four different tiers of Castaway Club Members: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Pearl. You will become a Silver Member after completing 1 sailing, a Gold Member after completing 5 sailings, a Platinum Member after completing 10 sailings, and a Pearl Member after 25 sailings. When you’re a Castaway Club Member, you’ll receive exclusive benefits such as early booking dates, exclusive cruise terminal check-in, complimentary dinners, complimentary photo packages, and discounts.

These exclusive deals include discounts on Disney Cruise Line voyages. After your first sailing, you’ll receive a Castaway Club Welcome Offer . With this offer, you can receive up to $350 off of a future 7-night or longer cruise. To receive this discount, you must book within 60 days after you disembark from your first Disney Cruise.

New members aren’t the only ones who receive deals on Disney Cruises. All members of Castaway Club receive special booking offers for future sail dates!

Disney Visa Cardmember Cruise Savings

Disney Visa Cardmembers can receive savings on Disney Cruise Line. However, these savings are different from the ones that we've currently been looking out.  There aren't currently any Disney Cruise Line discounts for Disney Visa Cardmembers where you will be saving a portion off of your trip. However, there are still savings and perks that Disney Visa Cardmembers can use in regards to their Disney Cruise!

Disney Visa Cardmembers can save on Disney Cruise Line merchandise, spa treatments, and other Disney Cruise Line packages. Here are all of the Disney Cruise Line deals that Cardmembers can receive. You must use your Disney Visa Card on these purchases in order to receive the discounts.

• Photo Packages – Receive 10% off a non-discounted photo package. This offer is good for 10-photo, 15-photo, 20-photo, and all-inclusive digital photo packages.
• Merchandise – Receive 10% off of select merchandise onboard Disney Cruise Line ships.
• Castaway Cay Packages – Receive 10% off of a Castaway Cay Getaway Package. This package includes snorkeling, bicycle rental, and float or inner-tube rental.
• Spa Treatments – Receive 20% off of a non-discounted massage of facial service onboard Disney Cruise Line ships. This offer is only available on port days.

New Disney Visa Cardmembers can also save with Disney Cruise Line. New Cardmembers can earn a $300 Statement Credit after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of their account being open. You can easily earn this $300 statement credit by using your new Disney Visa Card to pay for you Disney Cruise!

Other Disney Cruise Line Deals

Costco has exclusive Disney Cruise Line deals and promotions available exclusively for their members . Currently, they only have one offer with savings. However, with every Disney Cruise that you book with Costco, you'll receive a Digital Costco Shop Card. If you're unfamiliar with this, a Digital Costco Shop Card is an electronic gift card that is sent to you via email. This gift card can be used exclusively at Costco.

The Disney Cruise Line deal that Costco is currently offering is the Reduced Deposit Deal . With this deal, you can book select 2024 and 2025 Disney Cruise Line Sailings with a reduced deposit. This offer is valid for new bookings only and cannot be used on Concierge Staterooms. To receive the Reduced Deposit Deal, you must book your Disney Cruise through Costco by February 16h, 2024.

Currently, AAA does not have any special Disney Cruise Line deals. They can, however, help you filter through the different itineraries that are available and help find you the lowest price possible for the cruise that you're searching for! There are also additional benefits that you can receive by booking your Disney Cruise with a AAA agent.

While not guaranteed, it is possible that you may receive onboard ship credit from your AAA agent. There is also the possibility that you could receive discounts on hotels, activities, and rental cars that are associated with your cruise plans. To find out more about what AAA can offer you for your Disney Cruise, contact them today!

Last Minute Disney Cruise Deals

You can find some of the best deals on Disney Cruises by booking them last minute. The timeframe for a last-minute cruise is usually 60 days out from the sail date. Due to the last-minute status of the booking, stateroom availability is limited. You most likely will not find out the location of your stateroom until about 14 days out from your sailing (or less). But this is a great way to find Disney Cruise deals if you're flexible!

Book Your Disney Cruise

There are so many ways that you can get Disney Cruise deals! The best part about these savings is that they're available to both new and seasoned cruisers. When you're ready to book your Disney Cruise, don't forget that you will get the best price and assistance when you go through Get Away Today .

Their experienced travel professionals are aware of all of the deals and savings that are available for your Disney Cruise. Let them take the time to find the best way to save you the most money possible. They will also handle the rest of details for your trip. Get Away Today's agents will take care of everything so you can focus on enjoying your time at sea!

What's Included in a Disney Cruise

The best part about the price of a Disney Cruise is that it includes so much. Plus, there’s something for everyone! Your cruise cost will include your stateroom, dining, entertainment, access to pools and other recreation, youth clubs, a visit to Disney’s Private Island(s), plus access to nightclubs and lounges.

Don't forget to read our full Disney Cruise Line packing list so you don't forget the essentials!

The staterooms on Disney Cruise Line ships are made with families in mind. They provide enough space for everyone to be comfortable when getting ready, spending time in the room, and going to bed for the night. Additionally, there is plenty of space for all of your luggage! The raised beds provide space underneath to store all of your suitcases and bags.

Other standard amenities include:

• Split Bathrooms ( in most staterooms ) – These split bathrooms make it easier for more people to get ready at the same time. One of the bathrooms has a shower, sink, and mirror. The other bathroom has a toilet sink and mirror.
• Bathroom Amenities – In the bathrooms, you’ll find Disney Cruise Line branded toiletries. These toiletries are from the H2O+ Spa line. The products include Sea Marine Revitalizing Shampoo, Sea Marine Revitalizing Conditioner, and Sea Salt Body Wash. There is also a hairdryer provided.
• Refrigerator – The dining options on Disney Cruises are exceptional! Having a refrigerator in your room is a nice to way to keep any left-overs that you may have. It’s also a great way to keep your drinks cool.
• Television and In-Room Movies – If you’re having some down time in your stateroom, there are plenty of entertainment options provided on the television.
• Housekeeping – On Disney Cruises, housekeeping happens twice a day. This also includes turndown service to get your stateroom ready for the night!

You’ll never have to worry about what to eat when you’re on a Disney Cruise. Food is available 24 hours a day! From snacks and quick bites to quick-service and full-service meals, Disney Cruise Line has it all!

Dining Options Include:

• Complimentary Beverages – Soda, tea, and coffee are available for your convenience in multiple areas around the ship. You can find them in the dining areas as well as on deck.
• Quick-Service Dining – You can walk up to the available Quick-Service Dining locations and get a quick meal at your convenience. These dining options vary depending on which ship you’re on. On the Disney Wish, the Quick-Service Dining options are Mickey’s Smokestack Barbeque, Donald’s Cantina, Daisy’s Pizza Pies, Goofy’s Grill, and Sweet Minnie’s Ice Cream.
• Themed Dining – On each Disney Cruise ship, there are three Main Dining restaurants. These dining locations are all full-service meals where you can sit back and relax while you’re waited on. These restaurants are also themed, with fun and exquisite details, and of course Disney storytelling. Again, these restaurants will vary depending on which ship you are on. On the Disney Treasure, you will find Plaza de Coco, Worlds of Marvel, and 1923.
• All-You-Care-To-Enjoy Soft-Serve Ice Cream – Whether you’ve been soaking up the sun on deck, or you’re just craving a sweet treat, stop by and get yourself some soft-serve ice cream… as many times as you’d like!
• 24-Hour Room Service – You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner foods delivered directly to your state room with the 24-Hour Room Service that's available on Disney Cruise Line. Breakfast food is delivered from 7am-10am and then lunch and dinner items are available for the rest of the day and night.
• Late-Night Snacks – Not only can late-night food be enjoyed with your room service, adults can also indulge in late-night snacks at the adult-only nightclubs and lounges.

Entertainment

Disney is known for its great entertainment. Live entertainment, nighttime spectaculars, movies, and more. We’ve experienced it at theme parks, on Broadway, at movie theaters, and even in the comfort of our own home. It’s no different when it comes to a Disney Cruise!

Entertainment includes:

• Characters – Just like at the Disney Parks, Disney Cruise Line has a variety of character meet and greets. Get ready for hugs, autographs, and pictures with your favorite Disney characters. Enjoy the special outfits that the characters wear throughout the sailing. You can even meet rare characters on some of Disney Cruise Line’s specialty cruises!
• Disney Movies – While you’re on the deck, in the pool, or in one of the ship’s theaters, you can enjoy some of Disney’s great movies. Disney Cruise Line shows both classic Disney movies as well as new ones that are being shown for the first time!
• Live Music – Throughout the ship, you’ll be able to see and enjoy live music.
• Broadway-Style Musicals – Across the fleet of Disney Cruise Line ships, there are a number of extravagant musicals for you to enjoy. These musicals include Beauty and the Beast, Frozen – A Musical Spectacular, Tangled: The Musical, Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular, Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story, Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic, Disney’s Believe, Disney Seas the Adventure, The Golden Mickeys, The Little Mermaid, and Disney: The Tale of Moana.
• Shows, Trivia, Mixers, and Karaoke
• Kids Clubs – Children can enjoy some time with their peers in Disney Cruise Line’s imaginative kids clubs . These clubs, as well as the activities in them, are organized and geared towards specific age groups. Specially trained Disney counselors are at all of the kids clubs for supervision, help, and to assist with activities.
• Adult-Only Nightclubs and Lounges – The adults have a chance to get away for a moment by themselves to eat, drink, and dance at Disney Cruise Line Nightclubs and Lounges .
• Fireworks at Sea – There’s something special about Disney fireworks. Of course this isn’t something that could be left out of a Disney Cruise. Watch as magic fills the sky during these amazing nighttime spectaculars.

Pools & Recreation

There’s plenty of water fun to be had on the Disney Cruise Line ships. All of the ships have a variety of different pools, water play areas, and waterslides for all different age groups!

• Little ones can enjoy themed water play areas where they can splash around in fountains, misters, and more! These areas are exclusively for little cruisers ages 3 and below.
• Kids can enjoy the shallow depths of Mickey’s Pool or the water playground at AquaLab. The water slides also provide fun for children of all ages.
• Goofy’s Pool and Donald's Pool are both considered family pools. Everyone can enjoy splashing around in the water and participating in fun activities.
• On the Disney Fantasy, you can also find an Adult-only area called Satellite Falls. This is a splash pool that features a cascading rain curtain.
• For a more thrilling experience, you can try one of the water coasters: AquaDuck or AquaDunk . These are similar to water slides, but you’re being propelled through a tube. You even get to go through an acrylic tube over the side of the ship!

For those who are looking for a place to workout during their cruise, you can head to the fitness center onboard the ship. Here you’ll find weight machines, cardio equipment, and even fitness classes!

Island Destinations

Another inclusive part of a Disney Cruise is the opportunity to stop at an island destination. Currently, the destination is Disney’s Private Island, Castaway Cay. Beginning in the summer of this year, sailings will head to Disney’s newest island destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Both of these islands are located in The Bahamas. In order to stop at either (or both) of these islands during your sailing, you must sail on a Bahamian or Caribbean cruise. For more information on both of these island destinations, head over to these detailed articles to read more about each one!

• Disney’s Castaway Cay
• Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

Themed Disney Cruises

Disney Cruise Line has a number of themed cruises that bring even more fun and adventure to the sea! Currently, these themed cruises include Pixar Day at Sea, Marvel Day at Sea, Halloween on the High Seas, and Very Merrytime Cruises. During these cruises, you will be able to enjoy themed dining, character encounters, merchandise, activities, and more!

Pixar Day at Sea

During Pixar Day at Sea , you’ll join your favorites from Pixar movies such as Monsters Inc., The Incredibles, and Toy Story! Character experiences during this charming day will include characters like Mike and Sully, Mr. and Mrs. Incredible, Woody, and Jesse! You’ll also be able to sing and dance with a wide array of Pixar characters during the Pixar Pals Celebration. And the fun doesn’t end there! An Incredible Deck Party is a super way to lead to the firework finale. The Incredibles are.. well.. incredible, but they may need your help saving the day during this deck party!

There are three different themed dining options available during Pixar Day at Sea. Hey Howdy Breakfast is a musical breakfast where you’ll be joined by Woody, Jesse, and Bullseye! Pixar Day at Sea Dinner serves up delicious dishes that are inspired by your Pixar favorites! During Undersea Magic with Crush , you’ll enter the world of Finding Nemo for your meal. But don’t forget… “Fish are friends. NOT food!”. While you eat, you’ll be able to see friends from the movie and possibly have a chance to talk with Crush!

Pixar Day at Sea is available on select 7-Night Caribbean sailings. These sailings take place from January through March. If you’re interested in experiencing Pixar Day at Sea, book now before it’s too late!

Marvel Day at Sea

Assemble your crew for an amazing day during Marvel Day at Sea . This special sailing is packed with over 30 Marvel Super Heroes and Villains. Suit up and get ready for scheduled photo opportunities with Thor, Loki, Black Panther, Shuri, Spider-Man, Captain Marvel, and Captain America (Sam Wilson). Other heroes that you may spot throughout the ship are Captain America (Steve Rogers), Star-Lord, Gamora, Hawkeye, Kate Bishop, Shang-Chi, Black Widow, and others!

There is no shortage of activities for you to enjoy during this heroic day.

• Dress up as your favorite Marvel Super Hero or Villain.
• Catch showings of Marvel movies up on deck or in the Buena Vista Theater
• Children ages 4-12 have the opportunity to participate in training to become part of the next generation of Super Heroes!
• Test your skills during Marvel trivia.
• Learn how to draw Marvel Super Heroes at Animation Academy.
• Watch Marvel TV animated series on deck during Funnel Vision screenings.
• Enjoy an interactive Super Hero session.

Of course, being Marvel themed, this cruise is action packed! There is so much entertainment throughout the day.

• Warriors of Wakanda Show – Okoye leads the Dora Milaje during this thrilling demonstration. During this demonstration, you will learn what training is like for the Dora Milaje!
• Strange Academy: A Spellbinding Spectacular – During this show, you’ll experience first-hand the power of the mystic arts with Doctor Strange and Sorcerer Supreme Wong.
• Mickey and Minnie’s Super Hero Celebration – You won’t want to miss seeing your favorite pals in their Super Hero best! Make sure to stop by to see Mickey, Minnie, Chip and Dale, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy in their special costumes!
• Star-Spangled USO Show – At the Evolution Dance Club, you can see this tribute to Captain America. With singing, dancing, music, and possibly an appearance from Captain America himself, this is a show that you won’t want to miss!
• Marvel Heroes Unite – Marvel Super Heroes take flight during this action-packed nighttime spectacular. This display includes stunts, special effects, and pyro. Both Super Heroes and Villains will make an appearance as you watch an epic battle that takes place within the Multiverse.

Marvel Day at Sea is available on select 5-Night sailings to The Bahamas and Western Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale.

Halloween on the High Seas

Celebrate this spook-tacular time of year with Disney Cruise Line! During Halloween on the High Seas, you’ll experience not-so-scary activities, thrilling entertainment, special character meet and greets, and treats! The entire ship is decorated with Halloween decor. You won’t want to miss the magical Halloween Tree in the Grand Hall!

• Mickey’s Mouse-querade – This scary good celebration brings out all of the Halloween fun! See your favorite Disney characters in their Halloween best. Join them by wearing your costume too!
• Themed Meet and Greets – During this eerie cruise, you’ll be able to see characters in rare Halloween costumes. Stop by to see Minnie, Daisy, and Clarabelle dressed as the Sanderson Sisters!
• Halloween Activities – Everyone can join in on the fun and make Halloween themed crafts together.
• No tricks, just treats! – During this cruise, you’ll be able to indulge in Halloween-themed desserts and drinks. Of course, there will also be trick-or-treating!

Halloween on the High Seas takes place during most sailings from late September through Halloween.

Very Merrytime Cruises

‘Tis the SEA-son to sail with Disney Cruise Line! Experience the magic of the holidays mixed with the magic of Disney during Disney Cruise Line’s Very Merrytime Cruises. These sailings include gorgeous decor, holiday-themed entertainment, activities, and merchandise!

• Holiday Decor – You’ll be filled with the heart-warming feelings that come with the sight of cozy holiday decorations. The ship is beautifully decorated for the holidays. Decorations that you can expect to see are lights, garlands, poinsettias, and a 24-foot Christmas tree.
• Tree Lighting Ceremony – Join Mickey and Minnie for the holiday tradition of lighting the Christmas tree!
• Holiday Deck Show – This deck show is filled with music and holiday cheer. Gather those you love and enjoy the show.
• Character Meet and Greets – The ship isn’t the only thing that gets dressed up for the holidays. Your favorite Disney characters will be dazzling in their holiday finest and ready to take a picture with you!
• Santa Claus – Santa Claus will also be available for photo opportunities. Make sure that the little ones are ready to share what’s on their wish list this year!
• Activities for Kids – Holiday-themed crafts and activities will be available for the little ones and anyone else who would like to join in on the fun with them!
• Merchandise – Holiday-themed Disney Cruise Line merchandise will be available during Very Merrytime Cruises. Grab the perfect gift for your loved ones at home or for yourself!
• Holidays on the Islands – Celebrate the holidays on both Castaway Cay and, for the first time this year, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point!

There are so many different Disney Cruise Line options, there is something for everyone!

Ready to Plan Your Disney Cruise?

Be sure to join our FREE Mickey Visit newsletter for the latest on Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland, and Walt Disney World. We have over 105K subscribers to our newsletter. Join us! Be sure to request a no-obligation FREE quote from our travel partner. For a limited time, you'll get up to a $400 onboard credit when you book via our Mickey Visit page.

Here are some of our other guides helpful planning guides

• Disney Wish – Tour of Disney's Newest Ship
• Guide to Disney Cruises – What You Need to Know
• Top Tips For Your First-Time Disney Cruise
• Review of the Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise – Worth It?
• Walt Disney World Hotel Reviews – Best Hotels On Property
• Disney Cruise Line Packing List

Disney Cruise Deals Q&A

September is usually the cheapest month to go on a Disney Cruise. The main reasoning for this is hurricane season. Bookings aren't as popular during this month because Guests want to avoid storms and the possibility of cancellation.

Yes, you can often find Disney Cruises on sale. You can find special offers directly on Disney Cruise Line's webpage.

The price of a Disney Cruise for a family of 4 depends on quite a few factors. The price of a Disney Cruise varies depending on the destination, length of sailing, travel dates, ship, and which stateroom you choose to stay in.

Yes, it can be cheaper to book a Disney Cruise last minute. However, if you're able to, I would suggest to book a Disney Cruise as soon as the booking period opens up. This is also a very cheap time to book a Disney Cruise and you will have more options available to you. Your stateroom location will be more restricted when you book last minute.

Disclosure: We have used all the products recommended on Mickey Visit. We may receive compensation when you click on links to some products featured.

About Rebekah Brown

Rebekah's love of Disney and passion for writing is what led her to Mickey Visit and Disney Dose. Her first visit to Walt Disney World was when she was a young child. Now she enjoys her Disney vacations with her own two children, husband, and parents. Rebekah will keep you up to date on all things that have to do with Walt Disney World. As a frequent visitor, Rebekah will share both her knowledge and personal experience with you through her articles.

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Best Time to Go on a Disney Cruise Secrets Revealed

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Are you wondering when is the best time to go on a Disney Cruise?

There are a number of things that you really need to think about when choosing when you should sail on any of the Disney Cruise Line ships.

I will take you through these in turn so that you can make the best choice for you and your family.

When Can You Cruise?

All the articles ever written could tell you that the best time for a Disney cruise is the second week in December (no I’m not saying it is), but if you can’t actually sail at that time, that isn’t very helpful.

In other words, the first thing that you have to think about when you’re deciding when to book your Disney cruise is the times of the year when you can actually sail.

We all have different restrictions on our time.

If you are retired with no commitments then you can probably sail at whatever time of year you want.

However, if you have children you may not be able to take them out of school.

If you have your own business, you may not be able to travel at certain times of the year.

Spring Break or summer vacation may be your best option even though it is likely that that will be one of the more expensive times to sail.

There are many reasons why you may not be able to sail at a certain time of year, and of course, this is the first limiting factor you look at.

After you have worked out your own limits of when you can actually cruise, you start to look at the other factors that are important to help you decide.

Where Will Disney Cruise Ships Sail?

Another thing that you need to think about is where the Disney Cruise ships sail from and which port stops they make.

For instance, don’t set your heart on sailing on a cruise to Alaska at Christmas time!

Some guests may dream of a Caribbean cruise. For others, Alaska will be their dream destination.

There are many options of where you can sail on a Disney cruise and this will also have an impact on when the best time to sail on a Disney cruise is for you.

Here is a guide to all of the currently released Disney cruises for 2024:

Disney Cruises 2024 – A Complete Guide

Now there are five Disney Cruise Ships:

Some cruises sail year-round, whilst others are limited to certain times of the year.

• Disney Wish – sailing from Port Canaveral on 3 and 4-night Bahamas Cruises
• Disney Fantasy – sailing from Port Canaveral on 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean Cruises
• Disney Magic – sailing from Galveston, New Orleans, and San Juan on Caribbean Cruises
• Disney Dream – sailing from Fort Lauderdale on Bahamian and Caribbean Cruises
• Disney Wonder – sailing Australian, New Zealand, Transpacific, Pacific Coast, Mexican Riviera, and Baja Cruises

The picture below shows the later 2023 and early 2024 Disney Cruise

Disney Wish Restaurants – Discover All The Dining Experiences on the Ship

Now we know where the Disney ships sail to at different times of the year, we can look at when the best times of year to cruise to those different places.

Best Time to Cruise to the Bahamas and the Caribbean

Which is the best time of year to cruise to the Bahamas and the Caribbean?

You can find a Disney cruise to the Bahamas at any time of the year. The weather is generally great all year round.

The months between December and May are generally seen as ideal weather for cruising to the Bahamas. The summer months can get very hot and humid.

If you don’t enjoy high temperatures and humidity, avoid July and August in the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

Even though you can easily find an air-conditioned space on the ship, or have a dip in the pool you really might not enjoy those port adventures as much if you are baking in the sun!

The other consideration when sailing from May to November is that this is Hurricane Season. Historically, August and September are the most active times for Hurricane Season.

Cruisers are quite understandably concerned about Hurricane Season . The good thing is though that there is usually a considerable amount of warning before a storm develops and these storms tend to be slow-moving.

This means that a cruise ship can usually divert to get out of the path of the storm.

Should I Sail in Hurricane Season?

I spent almost a week sailing on the Disney Wonder in 2014 avoiding the path of a hurricane.

At no time did I ever feel unsafe.

I trusted the Disney Captain and his Crew would keep everyone safe and they did.

What is absolutely essential at all times, is that you never sail without travel insurance. Whilst you will most likely be perfectly safe if there is a hurricane in the area, travel plans do get disrupted.

Cruises are diverted, canceled, lengthened, and shortened. In other words, expect the unexpected and always have travel insurance when you travel.

Related: What is the Best Time to Take a Cruise to the Bahamas?

Best Time to Visit Castaway Cay

Most of the Disney Bahamas and Caribbean cruises visit Disney’s Private Island Castaway Cay.

Disney cruise guests consistently say that the port stop of Castaway Cay is the highlight of their cruise.

Castaway Cay is located in the Bahamas so the comments above are relevant for Disney’s Private Island too.

You can see a chart below which shows the average temperatures, rainfall, and ocean temperature for Castaway Cay.

The weather can get pretty hot and humid during the summer. However, one thing that you do have to consider is the temperature of the ocean at Castaway Cay.

It is likely that you will want to spend at least some of the time on the island relaxing on the beach and going into the water.

It can be a little cold during the winter, in particular in December and January.

This might be a little disappointing, particularly if you have children.

As you can see, the rainy days tend to be in the summer months. Often the showers are over quickly and it doesn’t impact your day too much.

Castaway Cay Weather

Best time to cruise to alaska.

The Disney Wonder sails to Alaska from Vancouver from May until September in 2023 and 2024.

As you can see, the Alaskan cruise season is relatively short. The weather simply doesn’t support it being any longer than this. The winter months are not an option for cruising Alaska!

Photo By Disney

There are a few factors that you want to take into account when considering when the best time to sail on an Alaskan cruise.

This may seem like an obvious point but Alaska has cold weather! In May and September, temperatures are likely to be in the mid-thirties to the low forties Fahrenheit, but the highs can get up to the upper fifties.

The weather is most likely to be warmer during the months in the middle of the season.

Here you can see this chart which shows average high and low temperatures and rainfall for Juneau Alaska.

September has significantly more rainfall on average than any of the other months in the Alaskan cruise season.

A huge part of the experience of an Alaskan cruise is the wildlife that you will see.

It is difficult to describe the emotions you feel when you see a humpback whale in its natural environment.

The summer months of June, July, and August will give you the most opportunities to see native wildlife in Alaska.

If you want to have a chance of seeing the Northern Lights then September will be your best bet.

Prices are relatively high for Disney Alaskan cruises and it is rare that you will find a deal.

However, you will usually get a lower price for an Alaskan cruise in May or September shoulder season, rather than in the peak summer months of June, July, and August.

We can see that once again the highest prices are going to be during the summer school holiday.

If you possibly can I would say choose a Disney Alaskan cruise at the end of August or the beginning of September. You get the best deals at this time and the weather should still be fine for your vacation.

Best Time to Sail on a Cruise to Mexico

The Disney Wonder sails on cruises to Mexico in the Spring and Fall of each year.

I have sailed on many cruises to Mexico from San Diego and Los Angeles and the weather is consistently reliable year-round on the Mexican Riviera.

The Disney Wonder is sailing to Mexico from San Diego in March and April and September and October of 2022.

These are reliably warm months in Baja Mexico and the Mexican Riviera.

You should expect that it can be cooler in the evenings though so you will need some warmer clothing if you are going to be on deck later in the day.

Disney Cruise from San Diego – An Honest Review

Here is a chart for year-round weather in Cabo San Lucas. This is one of the port stops on most of the Disney cruises sailing out of San Diego.

This should give you an idea of the land temperatures for each month in Cabo San Lucas.

As you will see. March and April have more comfortable temperatures than September and October.

The first and last day of your Mexican cruise itinerary may be considerably cooler than these temperatures though as you are sailing off the Southern California coast.

What is the Best Time for a Cruise to Europe?

Disney Dream sails some very varied itineraries to Europe. These include a great diversity of different port stops with lots of different weather patterns.

Summer in Barcelona is considered to be the months of June, July, and August.

You can expect temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s.

The British weather is well known for its unpredictability.

One day can be wonderfully sunny and then the rain starts pouring down! You can have a glorious day in April and a cold rainy one in August.

All of the Disney cruises within Europe are from May to September.

This is the warmest and dryest time of the year for most areas where the Disney Magic sails.

Prices are likely to be lower in May, June, and September.

European school vacations follow a different pattern to those in the US. They start later, usually around mid-July until the end of August

A large proportion of the guests sailing on European Disney cruises will be British.

This means that demand will be higher during school holidays which will be from mid-July until the start of September.

This will probably mean that you will find lower prices outside of these times.

Prices for Disney Cruises

Prices for Disney cruises vary considerably according to what time of year you will sail, the cruise ship you are sailing on, the itinerary, and the type of stateroom that you have.

There are some general rules that you can apply to thinking about the prices for Disney cruises.

Cruises at peak times cost more than cruises at quieter times.

This is a pretty obvious statement, but an important one!

As we have just discussed, an Alaskan cruise in early May or late September is usually priced lower than one in the peak of summer.

Peak times are Christmas, New Year, Thanksgiving, Summer School Vacation, and Spring Break.

It is all about the law of supply and demand.

If the cruise is extremely popular you can see that prices will rise quickly from the date that they are released.

Very popular stateroom categories will also most likely increase in price quickly. A very good example of this was when the sailings for the Disney Wish were first released.

The prices of many stateroom types for the Disney Wish remained pretty steady.

However, this was not the case with the Disney Wish Concierge staterooms.

The demand for Concierge Staterooms on the Disney Wish is very high and therefore they increased in price rapidly after the release date. Many were sold out before they were released to the general public.

Castaway Club Members always have priority booking for new Disney cruise itineraries and many concierge staterooms were sold before the general public could book.

Themed Disney Cruises

There are also a number of different themed cruises which only sail at certain times of the year.

If you are interested in any of these themed cruises this will influence the time of year that you want to sail on a Disney Cruise.

Here are the themed cruises which have been running for a number of years:

Pixar Day at Sea

Marvel day at sea, halloween on the high seas, very merrytime cruises.

This is a great opportunity for Pixar fans to meet their favorite characters.

There is a Woody, Jesse, and Bullseye character breakfast, a Pixar-themed dinner, a nighttime spectacular featuring the Incredibles, a theatrical performance based on Coco, and a Pixar character dance party.

These limited sailings are offered on the Disney Fantasy 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral in early 2024.

Eastern Caribbean sailings are:

• January 6 and 20
• February 3 and 17

Western Caribbean Sailings are:

• January 13 and 27
• February 10 and 24

Image by Disney

If superheroes are your thing then you are going to enjoy a Marvel Day at Sea on a Disney Cruise. These are exclusive to the Disney Magic 5-night sailings from the Fort Lauderdale cruise port.

Marvel Day at Sea will take place on select Disney Dream 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale in 2024:

• January 7, 12, 21, 26
• February 4, 9, 18, 23
• March 3 and 8.

Get the chance to meet our favorite Marvel characters such as Captain America, Spider-Man, and Iron Man.

There are special menus, entertainment, and events.

Halloween on the High Seas cruises are found on all of the Disney ships.

They seem to start earlier and earlier each year, but they usually start around mid-September and finish with the cruise where October 31st falls.

I have sailed on many of these themed cruises and they are a lot of fun. The ships are all beautifully decorated with a Halloween theme.

There is special entertainment including trick or treating.

One of the best features of Halloween on the High Seas is that many of the characters will wear their exclusive Halloween costumes.

There is also a chance for guests to dress up in costumes.

This is an amazing event to either participate in or just people-watch and see what amazing costumes guests have!

Christmas is a very magical time on a Disney Cruise – one of my favorite times to sail. Even if you can’t sail on Christmas Day, you can sail on one of the Very Merrytime cruises to get you into the Christmas spirit.

All of the Disney ships have Very Merrytime Cruises. The decorations are spectacular.

There are lots of Christmas-themed events, and of course, the characters wear their amazing Christmas-themed costumes.

The Very Merrytime Cruises start around the second week of November – usually, there is a non-themed cruise after the last Halloween on the High Seas cruise.

Then the Christmas decor will miraculously appear and the Very Merrytime cruises will start.

Of course, if you want to sail on any one of these themed cruises you need to work out when they are available so that you can work out the best time to go on a Disney Cruise.

Planning a Disney Cruise? These guides will help:

Which Disney Staterooms should you Avoid?

Disney Wish Concierge Staterooms

Disney Cruise Money Mistakes to Avoid

Disney Wish Restaurants Revealed

Disney Wish Concierge Secrets

Take a Tour of the Most Expensive Disney Suite at Sea

Disney Wish Prices Revealed

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

The Best Time To Take A Disney Cruise

I f your family loves Disney, a Disney cruise may be something that is on your mind. Although you won’t be experiencing any attractions or rides, you will enjoy Disney magic while experiencing the world outside of Walt Disney World. Wondering when is the best time to take a Disney cruise? Here is our guide to figuring out the best options for your family.

Disclosure: Over the years we have taken media cruises on the Disney Cruise Line, and have paid full price for many of our sailings. This post contains affiliate links, and if you click through or purchase through one of these links, I may be paid a commission.

When booking a Disney Cruise, I recommend booking with Get Away Today. Plus, when you mention Family Travel Magazine, you get an extra $25 in onboard credits! Give their agents a call at 877-510-2929.

When deciding the best time to take a Disney Cruise, you’ll need to look at a few factors. If you have older kids, you may be stuck with only just a few weeks of availability due to sports, work, and school commitments. My high school kids are so busy that school vacations are really the only times that we can travel for more than a weekend. These times are very fun to travel but are likely to be more expensive – including the airfare.

If your schedule is open, and you are looking for the best times to sail on a Caribbean/Bahamian itinerary, I’d recommend May. The weather is generally nice, it’s not one of the peak times, so prices and crowds aren’t too bad. If you have younger children who aren’t in school yet, definitely take advantage of that time. You also won’t have to worry about hurricane season at that point.

Pricing Considerations for Your Cruise

Pricing is one of the most important factors you should consider. As you’d expect, the peak times of the year, like holidays, spring break, and other school vacations, are when you’ll often see the highest prices. Some discounts, for military and Florida residents, for instance, are not offered on every sailing. Flexibility in booking can give you the opportunity to save some money.

It’s not just the cruise price that you should look at. If you are flying into the port or staying either a night before or a night after your cruise, the flights and hotels may also be more expensive during school vacations and holidays. So you’ll have to weigh whether the extra cost is worth the convenience of traveling during this time.

Some families choose to combine their family cruise with a trip to the theme parks for a Disney land and sea vacation . Again, this is usually a more expensive trip during holidays and school breaks – for both the parks and the cruise line.

When booking, it’s always a good idea to book early. Disney Castaway Club members can often book early when the cruise fares and itineraries are first announced. That way, you have your choice of stateroom categories and won’t be left with the more expensive rooms, especially if you are hoping for a more affordable room category. Interior staterooms and ocean view staterooms (porthole) can be cheaper options for your trip.

If you are already taking a cruise, doing onboard bookings can save you money. Your next cruise can be booked before the end of your cruise. You can book a placeholder if you aren’t sure what itinerary you want to experience next or don’t have your available dates handy. Keep in mind that some of those benefits may have blackout dates during holidays and special events.

You should also look at the price including travel insurance. It’s always a good idea to have your vacation spending protected. Travel insurance may also cover you if you have a medical emergency (but always check coverage) A good travel agent can help you find the best rates for your dates and may even offer onboard credit.

Crowds on Your Cruise

Like prices, crowd levels are often the highest during school vacations and holidays. Although you may only be able to travel during these busy times, it’s important to understand in advance that you’ll need to make your reservations as early as possible and arrive at the airport with plenty of time. On our last cruise, we had to fly on Christmas Day, and the airport was extremely crowded with many delays.

Once your reservation is booked, based on your Castaway Club level, you should also plan your shore excursions early. If you have a port adventure that is especially popular, it likely will book up during the busy sailings. Cabanas at Castaway Cay are especially difficult to book because the demand far exceeds the supply.

Special Events at Sea

Disney Cruise Line offers some special, themed sailings that can be so much fun. These special cruises include Halloween on the High Seas, Disney’s Very Merrytime Cruise , Marvel Day at Sea, Pixar Day at Sea, and Star Wars Day at Sea. During these sailings, you’ll get to experience things like a decorated cruise ship, themed shows, and special events.

Often, these sailings can be more expensive than cruises without a theme. So you’ll need to decide whether or not the special theme is worth it for your family. If you aren’t that excited about the extra decor/entertainment, you may want to save your money and opt for a standard cruise.

Weather/Hurricane Season

Weather is another factor in deciding the best time to take a Disney Cruise. If you are planning a Caribbean/Bahamian itinerary cruise, you’ll want to look at the average temperatures in the islands you’ll be visiting. These cruises are typically offered year-round, although the Bahamian temperatures tend to be cooler in the winter months.

I generally prefer the spring, summer, and fall months when cruising to the Bahamas. Even early December can be nice. Surprisingly, while the summer months are hot, they don’t feel too hot.

The southern Caribbean islands generally have warm temps year-round. It’s definitely important to look at hurricane season, however. A tropical storm or hurricane can affect your sailing so you’ll want to keep this in mind if you decide to cruise in these months. My last September sailing resulted in an extension of two extra days due to a hurricane in Florida.

Itineraries on the Disney Cruise Line

Some of the itineraries on the Disney Cruise Line are only offered at certain times of the year. Alaskan cruises , for example, are only offered during the late spring/summer months because of the cold weather the rest of the year.

Other limited sailings include Northern Europe and San Diego (but can vary by year). So, if you are looking to take one of those sailings, you’ll have limited options for timing.

Ages of Kids on the Disney Cruise Line

Instead of a time of year, you may be wondering what the best ages are to take a Disney Cruise with your kids. You won’t want to go when your kids are too young because they won’t be able to enjoy all of the activities and amenities.

I’d recommend waiting until your kids are old enough to enjoy the kids’ clubs. They are fantastic, and your kids will likely want to stay in the clubs for much of your time at sea. Although the regular youth clubs are open to kids 3 and up, my kids really had fun in them once they were about 5 years old.

After that age, I think that any kid would enjoy sailing on the Disney Cruise Line. We recently went on a trip with our 16 and 18-year-old, and they still have a great time sailing with Disney.

Compare itineraries and prices here .

More Disney Cruise Ships Resources: Click to read more about the Disney Cruise Line ships including restaurants, tips, itineraries, activities, and more.

The post The Best Time To Take A Disney Cruise appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

Disney cruises are simultaneously magical…

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Subscriber only, disney cruises are simultaneously magical and banal.

The Easter school break is a time for family vacations.

Being a little ahead of the throng, I just returned from my first Disney cruise. It was a family reunion cruise, consisting of 14 adults and seven children. It was not my immediate family, but the family of my companion.

By agreeing to go, I probably saved our relationship of nearly 10 years. That’s because I sneer at almost everything Disney. She, with the exception of Elsa from “Frozen,” melts at the sight of a Disney Princess.

This is nothing new. Her daughters were weaned on videotapes of “Snow White,” “Dumbo” and “Cinderella”. The grandchildren had cd experiences with the same stories, as well as with the added films of “Lion King,” “Beauty and the Beast” and “Mulan.” A rite of passage for both boys and girls was a trip to Disney World in Florida.

On the other hand, except for Dumbo’s magic feather making me understand bravery comes from within and my distaste for guns stemming from seeing Bambi’s mother being shot, I honestly can’t say Disney has very much influenced my youth.

Maybe there is another. Since my favorite of the seven dwarves was Grumpy, it was destined that I become a theater critic.

About the six-day, five-night cruise, let me say I would not do another. And surprisingly neither would companion. But I think that has more to do with the fact, even as certified grandparents, 17 between us, we are not the target market for this cruise.

However, neither would we discourage others to go.

You will not find a more courteous group of people than the staff of a Disney cruise. The activities for kids are almost unlimited; as are entertainment opportunities for both young and old. During the day there are youth shows, craft opportunities and photo ops with Disney characters. At night there is secure child-sitting services available where youngsters of all ages are entertained and kept busy.

But one of my issues is too many “extras” offered by Disney come with a substantial fee and there are long lines everywhere. Indeed, there is a lot of nickel and diming going on, as many things seem like exploiting the instant gratification impulses of the young for overpriced easily forgotten souvenirs.

Before I go full-Uncle Scar, I have to admit I did have a “Come-to-Disney” moment. That, of course, came in the theater during the large production shows offered in the Walt Disney Theater.

The production of “Beauty and the Beast” was impressive. The talent was of a professional level, the visuals spectacular, and the show was edited to 70 minutes without reducing the fun for adults and making it a perfect length for young audiences.

However, it was the following night when we attended “Believe” that I embraced the magic that is Disney.

On the surface it is a predictable Disney tale. A distracted father, solely focused on his newly created specimen of flower, wants to win recognition for his accomplishment. Thoughtlessly, in his efforts for fame, he dismisses the importance of his daughter’s birthday.

More to the point, he turns a blind eye to her love of magic and denies even the possibility of its existence. Aladdin’s Genie appears and grants him three wishes. Being a non-believer he squanders two and accidentally wishes he could believe in magic. Before you can say Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo, he’s off on a journey of discovery.

On route, he is met and helped by the famous Disney characters. They include Mary Poppins, Bert and a stage filled with dancing, acrobatic chimney sweeps singing and dancing to the tongue-twisting number “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”.

Also appearing are Belle and the Beast. They, along with all the household utensils, perform a rousing song and dance number to “Be My Guest.”

Along the way, scenes include flying from “Peter Pan,” a touching moment from “The Lion King,” and a glamorous entrance scene of “Cinderella.” She was followed by about half a dozen other favorite Disney princesses and a court scene including Tiana and the Frog Prince. There were more and each individual number raised the emotions of all in the auditorium.

Part of it was for the thrill of the familiar happy songs that rekindled sweet memories from the past. But, more important was the emotional connection everyone has with the characters. When Mickey and Minnie appeared at the finale I observed some children actually shivering with excitement.

That’s when it dawned on me. Disney has created a lifetime of memories by telling magical tales that have survived over generations. Witnessing the vast number of characters that were not only identifiable but genuinely beloved was, for me, a monumental moment of awareness.

Disney has created a body of work that has influenced American culture in powerful and essentially good ways. Like “Believe,” all the stories have a solid core that encourages social awareness, friendship, acceptance and bravery.

I left the theater aglow in admiration. However, the scene in the main lobby made me feel that I was in Times Square or Coney Island. Hawkers were everywhere peddling photos with humans masquerading as lovable creatures. There were all sorts of Disney merchandise for sale, and even a diamond jewelry store.

Everything was being sold at outrageous prices.

I could not decide whether those in line were great parents trying to give their children a lifetime memory, or were they duped, willing to be exploited in an effort to return to their own pasts?

My conclusion about the world of Disney reflects my view of the world in general. There are creatives who, through imagination, show us the best sides of ourselves. There are also shrewd opportunists who prey on emotion to exploit the dreams of innocents. They thrive on greed. It’s the yin and yang of American society. You will find both on a Disney cruise.

The bottom line is to acknowledge that like everything else in the world, it is up to the individual to know how to keep balance in an overstimulated environment.

As for me, I wouldn’t do it again, but I enjoyed what was to be enjoyed. And it was plentiful.

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Disney reveals the name and theme of its newest cruise ship

Disney Cruises’ next ship promises adventure on the high seas

Fans of Disney cruises are in for a new adventure, as Disney Cruise Lines has revealed new details about its forthcoming ship, the Disney Destiny . A keel laying ceremony, a tradition meant to bring good luck, was held at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, marking the next milestone in the Destiny’s construction.

The theme for this new ship will be “Heroes and Villains,” drawing inspiration from Disney’s timeless tales of opposing forces of light and dark that drive characters to rise to their purpose. Voyagers will be empowered to embrace their calling as they embark on an unforgettable journey. Through the ship's spaces, experiences and entertainment, guests will encounter heroes and villains alike, from stories including The Lion King , Hercules and 101 Dalmations .

Artwork on the bow of the ship depicts Minnie Mouse, in valiant regalia, striking a heroic pose. Her cape waves majestically in the breeze as she leads guests toward their vacation destinies.

“The Disney Destiny will celebrate our most legendary Disney stories and characters, bringing them to life in new and exciting ways exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “As we continue to expand our fleet, the Disney Destiny will further strengthen our position as a leader in family cruising as we offer even more ways for families to experience Disney magic and world-class service at sea.”

The Destiny is scheduled to be complete by 2025, and eager voyagers can find more information about the ship and booking options at disneycruise.com .

• Gerrish Lopez Contributor, New Orleans

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5 Myths Critics Get Wrong About Bob Iger’s Performance at Disney

A s Disney’s closely watched proxy fight barrels toward the finish line with shareholders casting their votes on April 3, critics of CEO Bob Iger have launched a fuselage of attacks , criticizing Iger’s track record and his plans for turning around Disney. But amidst widespread interest from non-business audiences, these criticisms often drown out the facts and fail to see the whole story before them.

Here are five persistent but false myths about Iger’s track record and plans for resurrecting Disney, debunked.

Myth: Disney stock has languished under Bob Iger’s leadership

The facts clearly show that Disney stock has significantly outperformed virtually all its pure play media and entertainment peers during both of Iger’s stints as CEO. Disney’s 579% total shareholder returns during Iger’s first term as CEO, from 2005 to 2020, far outpaced that of key rivals Warner Brothers’ 244%, Fox’s 104%, and Paramount’s 49% during that same timeframe. And since Iger returned for his second stint as CEO in November 2022, Disney’s 27% total shareholder returns have far outpaced all its major media rivals who are in the red, with Warner Brothers Discovery’s -22%, Fox’s -6%, and Paramount’s -40% returns. No media and entertainment peer CEO can boast of such consistent outperformance across two decades.

Disney critics point out that the company’s stock has fallen about 40% from its peak levels of nearly $200 in 2021, ignoring the fact that Bob Chapek, not Iger, was the CEO in 2021. It was Chapek who oversaw the collapse of Disney stock from $200 to $85 when he was removed in November 2022. Furthermore, Disney critics point out that Disney stock has underperformed big tech platform companies such as Apple, Amazon, Alphabet, Meta, and Netflix, but they disregard the fact that much of these companies’ value derives from their non-media businesses and that Disney has not, and will never be, a pure play big tech company.

Myth: Bob Iger overpaid in major Disney acquisitions

Critics protest that Iger overpays every time a deal is struck and insist that his failed M&A track record is a reason to depose Iger as CEO. But not only is there zero financial evidence to suggest this is true, a careful analysis of the facts suggest Iger’s deals and capital allocation decisions have been rewarded many times over. Consider the payoff from each of his four big deals:

In his first big deal after taking over as CEO, Iger purchased Pixar for $7.4 billion dollars in May 2006. Although media analysts pounced, declaring “ Investors, Beware: Disney is Paying Too Much for Pixar ,” Disney has reaped over $40 billion in direct revenues from Pixar, not even counting derivative revenue streams such as park attractions and synergies with other Disney franchises. Following this up, three years later in December 2009, Iger purchased Marvel for $4 billion sparking the same cries that Disney overpaid . But in the time since, Marvel has reaped over $13 billion in direct revenues for Disney, again excluding derivative revenue streams and synergies which may amount to many billions more. Iger then made his third deal in December 2012 when he purchased Lucasfilm for $4 billion , with the same “ overpay ” criticisms abounding. In the time since, Disney has reaped approximately $12 billion in direct revenues from the Star Wars franchise.

For his fourth deal, and perhaps the most controversial today, Iger purchased 21st Century Fox from Rupert Murdoch for $71 billion in 2018 . Although critics continue to argue Iger overpaid, and while it is still early, this critique does not stack up to basic math . The deal cost Disney significantly less than $71 billion, and closer to $45 billion when all was said and done, since Disney immediately divested several assets at their peak valuation , including selling the regional sports network to Sinclar for $11 billion; selling Sky to Comcast for $15 billion; selling 50% of A&E Networks to Hearst; and selling TeleColombia to Paramount. Disney picked up several key assets in the deal, including a 30% stake in Hulu; a 73% stake in National Geographic Partners, and a Star India/Hotstar stake, all of which are worth $12 billion. If one puts a highly conservative 6x multiple on $6 billion in immediate earnings, cost cuts, and synergies, including $2 billion from the Avatar movie alone, then we believe the Fox deal paid for itself within the first year.

Myth: Bob Iger has lost his magic touch on movie making

Critics point to the fact Disney has lost money on its last five movies— but each of those money-losing films were either greenlit or largely produced under the watch of predecessor Bob Chapek, who had little creative experience and whose tendency to alienate creative talent was well documented . In fact, during Chapek’s entire tenure as CEO, not a single Disney movie released under his watch crossed $1 billion in gross box office revenues, with high-budget  misses such as Black Widow , Encanto , Thor: Love and Thunder , Pinocchio , and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever underperforming at the box office. In contrast, Iger had seven films cross $1 billion in box office profits in his last full year as CEO alone in 2019, and Iger has produced 8 of the top 10 and 13 of the top 20 biggest box office openings of all time. Bob Iger has acknowledged that Disney’s creative engine “ lost its way ”, and is now prioritizing quality over quantity after clearing the cluttered content pipeline, canceling at least a dozen projects greenlit by Chapek.

Myth: Bob Iger is failing to turn around Disney

Although Disney stock is up 27% since Iger returned in Nov. 2022, and is the top performing stock in the Dow Jones Index this year, critics continue to suggest Iger is not doing enough. In fact, Iger’s performance during his second run as CEO already far exceeds those of peers who returned to the CEO job after a successful first run. Starbucks stock was down nearly 50% a year after Howard Schultz returned to Starbucks in 2008, but after three years had returned 63%. Similarly, after Michael Dell returned to Dell in 2007, the stock fell 17.3% a year into his tenure before multiplying by several times over the next decade. Even Apple, under founder Steve Jobs, took three years to pull off its stunning stock rebound of 403% after his 1997 return as CEO. (Iger served on that board under Jobs.)

Iger’s plan for fixing Disney is well underway and paying dividends already. After a year spent fixing inherited issues, Disney’s flywheel is now firing on all cylinders , with free cash flow inflecting eightfold from $1 billion in 2022 before Iger returned, to well over $8 billion expected this year.

Myth: The Disney board is unduly deferential to Bob Iger and dropping the ball on leadership succession

Disney’s board is one of the most impressive boards in modern corporate America, with strong, independent, qualified CEO peers of Iger including GM CEO Mary Barra; Oracle CEO Safra Catz; Morgan Stanley Chair James Gorman; Former Nike CEO Mark Parker; and Lululemon CEO Calvin McDonald; not to mention top executives from Cisco, Meta, Sky, CVS, and JPMorgan—all of whom are independent directors and do not have any personal ties to Iger.

Furthermore, with a new special subcommittee of the Board focused on leadership succession led by Mark Parker and James Gorman, both of whom oversaw seamless succession processes at Nike and Morgan Stanley respectively, Iger continues to cultivate a strong team of key deputies including Disney Entertainment Co-Chairs Dana Walden and Alan Bergman; Parks Chair Josh D’Amaro, and ESPN Chair Jimmy Pitaro, who have driven revenue growth and $8 billion in cost cuts after Iger restored authority to these key creative leaders.

Plus, Iger surprised the media world by attracting back to the team two past CEO candidates, Tom Staggs, the former CEO of Disney Parks and Resorts as well as former Chief Operating Officer of Disney and Kevin Mayer who led Walt Disney Direct to Consumer and International businesses. Finally, the consumer products and financial worlds were impressed when highly respected PepsiCo CFO Hugh Johnston left to join Iger as well.

Read More: Bob Iger Outsmarting Ron DeSantis Is a Master Class in Taking on Bullies

As we’ve shown, these five myths about Iger’s track record and plans for resurrecting Disney are not grounded in factual reality. While it is true that some media monarchs cling to power past their peak, clearly, the facts suggest Iger deserves to complete his second decade at the helm of Disney. But above all, under Iger’s impressive stewardship, his plans for turning around Disney are already reaping massive rewards.

As film critic Roger Ebert once said, “no good movie is too long and no bad movie is short enough!” Despite the length of Iger’s career, perhaps it is still not long enough. The drama surrounding Disney has become a triumphant saga under Iger’s leadership, which should play on.

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