So…..you’re thinking about booking a cruise…. and a Disney Cruise at that! If you have never cruised before booking and traveling on a cruise can be a bit overwhelming. Here are 5 things to think about before booking your cruise!
1.When should I book a cruise?
There are so many options for booking a cruise. Cruises set sail every month from a variety of ports. There are of course the busier times such as typical school vacations and summer. Then the less busy times-during Winter. If you are looking forward to Castaway Cay-Disney’s private island in the Bahamas you should pick Spring through the beginning of Fall for best weather. If you’re hoping to spend Halloween on the High Seas or have a Merrytime Christmas cruise those options are also available but the water will be a bit chilly. It’s all about picking a time of the year that works best for the experience you want to have. The least expensive time to book a cruise is when the dates are first announced. Prices tend to increase the closer it gets to travel time so thinking ahead is important.
2. How many days should I book?
Disney Cruise Lines (DCL) offers a variety of lengths of stays on their cruises. Cruises last from 3 night stays all the way up to 13 nights. It’s important to understand when DCLsays it’s a 3 night cruise that means you have 3 nights sleeps on the cruise not 3 full days. The day you embark or board is a much shorter day. Some people are able to board starting at 11 am all the way up until 3 pm so it’s not a full three days on board. Keep this in mind when booking.
3.Where should we go?
DCL offers a variety of cruise line itineraries with specific ports which they focus on. These ports include the Bahamas, The Caribbean, Alaska, the Panama Canal, Europe, the Mexican Canal and Hawaii. The most popular port is the Caribbean so you will find more options for sailing there. The highlight for most people traveling is visiting Castaway Cay, if this is the case for your travel party you’ll need to make sure your choice includes a stop on the island!
4.What’s included?
DCL cruises tend to cost a bit more than their competitors so what’s included in your cost? The basics of course such as your room, meals, and general activities. You will have one sit down, fine dining experience a night, buffets will be open during the day, as well as, one sit down restaurant that is open to the public and included. DCL also has complimentary room service throughout the day, a grill located by the pool deck and all you can eat soft serve ice cream and soft drinks-all included. The kids club for children 3-18 (broken down into different age groups) is included. First run movies in their movie theater, Broadway style shows nightly and free activities listed daily in your Navigator (your daily schedule). Many other cruise lines charge fees for separate things like this but DCL does not-it’s all included.
5.How do I book?
You can book directly through DCL or through your travel agent. Travel agents -like ME- can help you directly with questions and tailoring a trip that meets your needs. Some travel agents also offer and On Board Credit (like ME!) for booking through them. This means once you get on board you already have a credit for things like drinks, shopping, tips, etc. You will need to place a deposit of 20% at the time of booking and full payment is due 90 days before travel.
Disney Cruise Line is a truly one of kind experience! It’s traditional cruising with that Disney touch and quality of service. DCL is especially great for people who love Disney or want that Disney experience without all the hustle and bustle of visiting the parks. It’s not just for families! Many couples, groups and singles travel DCL and they have activities for everyone. Need help booking your next Disney Cruise? Interested in finding out prices? Feel free to contact me at Callie@Fairygodmothertravel.com or you can find me on Facebook at Callie at Fairy Godmother Travel. As always my services are complimentary!
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