Great Ways to Save Money on a Disney Cruise

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Let’s face it; Disney cruises aren’t cheap. In fact, compared to several other popular cruise lines, they’re oftentimes the most expensive. That doesn’t mean that you can’t do it, though. Don’t let that deter you from booking a magical vacation. Keep reading, to learn a few great ways to save money, when you sail with Mickey, Minnie and the gang!

Book in Advance

If possible, it’s best to book your Disney cruise at least 12 months in advance. Doing so typically means you’ll save money. Why? Fares tend to rise as room availability decreases. Not only that, depending on the booking requirements, you sometimes get longer to pay.

Avoid Peak Seasons

The majority of families who book a Disney cruise, choose to sail during the summer or on holiday vacation. This makes sense. However, this is the absolute worst time to book. Cruising when the kids are in school always saves money. Maybe your kids have a time out of school that others don’t or you can even take them out for a few days if it works out.

Opt for a Shorter Sailing

You automatically save money when you opt for a shorter sailing. Obviously, you’re not paying for as many days as you would a longer one. If you’ve never cruised before, this is a great way to decide whether or not your family is really into it.

Ask for Discounts

One of the simplest ways to save money on a Disney cruise is to ask for a discount. Two of the most common include resident and military discounts. Other possibilities may include senior, teacher and AAA, but on a VERY limited basis.

A “Kids Sail Free” option may be available, depending on the time you book. Keep in mind, during this promotion child fares are waived. You’re still required to pay port charges and taxes.

Work with a Travel Agent

Working with a travel agent doesn’t cost you a penny. The great thing about relying on someone in the industry is you’re privy to all of their knowledge when it comes to cruising with Disney.

An experienced agent knows how to save you money and many times is able to get several “freebies” thrown in in the process. What could be better than that?

Consider a Last-Minute Cruise

If you live near a Disney cruise port and have the ability to easily rearrange your schedule, consider a last-minute cruise. The choice of staterooms will be limited. However, this is when the cruise line drops prices in an effort to completely book the ship. You can also drive there and not have to pay for plane tickets.

Book Onboard

Many Disney fanatics make it a habit to book a future Disney cruise while cruising on the current one. You typically save between 10 and 20 percent doing so. Not only that, you get a reduced deposit and (free) future onboard credits. Free is always good!

Research Room Options

Always take the additional time necessary to price out your room options, when traveling with a larger group. Depending on the category of stateroom you’re interested in, it can be less expensive to book two rooms as opposed to booking one that accommodates up to five people.

Purchase Excursion Packages from a Third-Party Vendor

Are you planning on taking part in any cruise excursions, on your vacation? If so, it’s always recommended that you purchase these packages from a third-party vendor such as Shore Excursion Group. There are tons to choose from and the prices are much lower than buying them on board or when you book. The only issue with this is that the ship isn’t required to wait on you if your excursion takes extra time.

These are just a few great ways to save money on a Disney cruise. As you can see, it really is possible! Remember, the more you shop around, the more you typically save. It’s NEVER a good idea to go with the first cruise package that interests you. In this case, patience is a virtue.

Do you have more tips to save on a Disney cruise? Share them with us in the comments!