As we head towards the end of the school year, and summer looms ahead of us, it’s time to seriously think about VACATION TIME, and if the magic of setting sail with Mickey and friends is calling your name, then you’re in the right spot. Today, we’re diving into the top 5 ways to save money when booking your next Disney Cruise Line vacation. This way, you can keep your wallet as happy as you’ll be when you meet your favorite Disney characters on the high seas. So, let’s anchor down and start saving!

Early Birds Get the Best Deals

Ever heard the saying, “The early bird catches the worm”? Well, in the world of Disney Cruises, the early bird catches the best deals! Booking your cruise as soon as itineraries are released is a golden ticket to savings. This is when you’ll snag the lowest pricing, as rates climb higher the more the ship fills up and the closer you get to the sailing date. Imagine locking in your dream cruise stateroom at a fraction of the cost, just by being ready to book early. Plus it gives you more time to budget payments towards that final balance so you have extra time to save up for excursions and activities onboard too! Keep an eye on release dates and set those reminders; your future self (and wallet) will thank you.

Exclusive Discounts – Are You Eligible?

Disney loves to sprinkle a little extra pixie dust for certain groups with exclusive discounts on specific cruises. You might be wondering, “Do I fit into any of these magical categories?” If you’re a Florida Resident, Canadian Resident, or a member of the US Military, you’re in luck! These special discounts are Disney’s way of saying “thank you” and “welcome aboard” by offering select cruise discounts. So, before you book, make sure to check if any of these glass slippers fit because not all sailings and itineraries are offered at a discount, but when you find one that is, you for sure feel like you’re riding away in Cinderella’s golden carriage.

Guaranteed with Restrictions Rate – A Bold Move for Big Savings

For the adventurers who love surprises, booking a guaranteed with restriction rate might just be your golden compass to savings. Here’s the treasure map: you pay in full at the time of booking, and yes, it’s completely nonrefundable and nontransferable. That means no name changes, no date changes, no refunds AT ALL. But here’s the exciting part – your room location is in the hands of the Disney Cruise Line captains. You won’t have a say in where your stateroom is onboard the ship, but you do get to choose the type of room. That means you know you will be in a balcony room on the ship somewhere, but you may not find out exactly where until you’re at the port ready to board the ship! It’s a bit like letting the tide take you where it will, but for a price that’s hard to beat.

Onboard Discounts – The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Already been on a Disney cruise and thinking about setting sail again? Well, there’s a hidden treasure onboard for you – an onboard discount for your next sailing. The Disney Cruise Line offers special incentives for guests to grab while they’re still onboard the ship and it can be applied to future cruises. This little gem is Disney’s way of saying, “We can’t wait to see you again.” So, if you’re dreaming of your next magical cruise while still on the high seas, make sure to check out the app to grab your placeholder discount that you can use on your next Disney Cruise Line sailing. But remember, it can ONLY be snagged while you’re still on the ship. As soon as you are off the ship’s wifi and back to reality, that offer will go poof and you will have to sail again in the future to grab one then.

Pay Smart – Disney Gift Cards & Disney Visa Card

Last but not least, let’s talk about a savvy sailor’s secret to saving: paying with a Disney gift card that was purchased at a discount or utilizing your Disney Visa card. Imagine this: you’ve scooped up Disney gift cards throughout the year at a discount, and now it’s time to unleash their power by paying off your cruise balance. Or, if you’re a Disney Visa cardholder, you can take advantage of special financing options like 0% interest for a limited time on your trip balance. It’s like finding a treasure chest right before your voyage. Just keep in mind if you buy Disney gift cards but don’t end up going to a Disney property, you will be stuck with your money only usable at a Disney property. It’s an amazing way to save 5% or more on your vacation (depending on where you get your gift cards) but it can get tricky if you have a last minute cancellation or change of plans.

There we go! Hope you enjoyed these tips on how to make your Disney cruise vacation both magical and affordable. Remember, a little planning goes a long way, especially when it comes to creating magical moments with Disney. Ready to book your dream Disney Cruise? Reach out today with questions or for your complimentary consultation call!

Wondering how to pick the best stateroom on the ship to fit your needs? No idea where to start and you’re totally overwhelmed? Check out these tips before you book so you don’t regret your decision once you hit the high seas.