Disney Cruises can be very expensive. No matter how you try to plan and budget your vacation, in the end you will find yourself paying a hefty price tag just to enjoy your vacation. Even though the cost of a Disney Cruise is higher than most, there are still ways to save money, making it possible to fit in a magical cruise on a budget. Here are some tips to help you plan your Disney Cruise when working with a tight budget:
Book early or late
The time when Disney releases its upcoming cruise dates is when prices are the cheapest. If possible try to book your cruise as soon as the dates are released or shortly after. If booking your cruise early is not an option, you might still be able to save money if you book it late. Disney sometimes does specials to fill up empty cabins shortly before it sails. Times when ships do no book up and discounts are offered is during hurricane season or when schools are in session. Just be careful waiting too long to book your cruise. Prices may not go down, they may go up, and you run the risk of the cruise selling out.
Get the discount
Occasionally, Disney offers discounts on their cruise vacations. Discounts are sometimes offered to those who are Florida residents, military personnel and Canadians. Other discounts are offered through travel agents, AAA and other organizations. Disney Vacation Club Members and Castaway Club Members may also receive special discounts when booking their Disney Cruise.
Time it right
The time of year you go cruising will have a huge impact on the cost of your getaway. Summer months are the most expensive times of the year to set sail. Holidays are just as expensive (if not more) than those cruises over the summer. One of the best times to go sailing (price wise) is in September. This is mostly because schools are back in session and it is still hurricane season. By changing the time you sail to an off season month, you will be able to use the money you save on shore excursions. Take a look and compare the different months available and you will be able to narrow it down to the time frame and cost that best fits your budget.
Get on board ship credits
On board ship credits are a great way to get more for your money when sailing with Disney. These credits can be used for anything you get or do on the ship. Some cruises may not allow you to get a discount, but they offer on board credits. The amount of credits issued depend upon the length of cruise, how many times you have set sail with Disney and a few other factors. Some travel agencies also offer on board ship credits if you book your cruise through them. Using your Disney Visa card to pay for the cruise could also get you some additional on board ship credits. The best thing you can do is check around and compare which cruises and which packages will offer you the most credits while you are sailing. This will reduce the amount of money you need once you are on the ship.
Get some help
Enlist the services of a travel agent. He or she will be able to find you the best deal and help you work out all the details of your cruise. Travel agents receive updates on specials, including discounts, ship credits, upgrades and other promotions. Sometimes these promotions are only available through a travel agent. Check with your local travel agent and see what kind of specials he or she can get you.
These are just some ways you can save money when booking your Disney Cruise. Hopefully these help you get the best price and make it possible to enjoy the cruise on your budget. Just remember, once you get on board, most activities and food are included in the price. This reducing the money you need while on vacation. So book the cruise and then start budgeting for the extras.
Happy vacationing!
