A Disney Cruise is a magical way to experience Disney’s iconic service, entertainment, and world-class destinations. But like any dream vacation, the cost can add up quickly. Don’t worry, though! There are plenty of ways to make your Disney Cruise more affordable—without sacrificing the fun. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned Disney fan, here are 10 smart tips to help you save money on both your booking and while you’re onboard.
1. Book Early for Better Rates
One of the easiest ways to save money on a Disney Cruise is to book as early as possible. Disney often offers discounted rates and promotions months in advance—sometimes even up to a year before sailing. Booking early gives you access to the best rates, and it also gives you the opportunity to choose from a wider selection of staterooms. The longer you wait, the fewer options you’ll have, and prices tend to rise as the sailing date gets closer.
Pro Tip: Consider booking as early as you can and set up price alerts through Disney’s website or third-party travel agencies to keep an eye on any price drops.
2. Look for Special Promotions
Disney Cruise Line occasionally runs special promotions, such as reduced fares, onboard credits, or free upgrades. Keep an eye on Disney’s official website or sign up for their newsletter to stay in the loop on upcoming deals. Additionally, many third-party travel agents offer their own exclusive discounts, so it’s worth comparing prices from multiple sources.
3. Consider Off-Season Sailing
When it comes to saving money on a Disney Cruise, timing is everything. Sailing during the off-peak seasons—typically during early spring, fall, or late winter—can save you a lot of money. Not only will you avoid the crowds, but the fares are generally much lower during these times. Prices tend to skyrocket during peak holiday seasons, such as summer, spring break, and the holidays. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, sailing during off-season months is a great way to save.
4. Opt for Inside Cabins
The stateroom you choose has a significant impact on the price of your cruise. Inside cabins (those without windows) are the most affordable option. While you won’t have an ocean view, you’ll still get to enjoy all the incredible amenities and experiences Disney Cruises offer. If you’re a family or group who spends more time out of the cabin than in it, an inside cabin can be a great way to cut costs without sacrificing your Disney experience.
Pro Tip: If an ocean view is a must for you, look for porthole rooms or cabins located near the ship’s interior. They’re typically cheaper than the larger suites or rooms with balconies but still offer a fantastic view.
5. Save on Dining by Skipping the Upcharge Restaurants
Disney Cruise Line offers several specialty dining options, but they usually come with an additional cost. While these restaurants are great, you can save money by enjoying the complimentary dining options available on board. Every Disney Cruise ship has multiple main dining rooms that offer delicious, varied menus included in the cruise price. Skip the extra-cost dining experiences unless you really want to splurge.
Pro Tip: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, check with the ship’s guest services in advance. They often offer small, complimentary celebrations (like a birthday cake or anniversary acknowledgment) without the need for a costly specialty dinner.
6. Pack Snacks and Drinks
While you can certainly enjoy unlimited food onboard, you’ll still need to pay for any snacks or drinks outside of meals. Instead of buying overpriced snacks or sodas on the ship, bring your own non-alcoholic drinks and snacks. Disney allows you to bring a small amount of alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages on board—perfect for saving on drinks that are otherwise pricey.
Pro Tip: You can pack things like granola bars, crackers, and fruit for the kids to munch on, and a few bottles of water for those times you’re exploring the ship or on an excursion.
7. Use Disney’s FREE Activities and Entertainment
A big draw of a Disney Cruise is the incredible amount of free entertainment and activities available onboard. From Broadway-style shows to themed character meet-and-greets, and movie screenings to the ship’s pools, there’s plenty of fun to be had without opening your wallet. Be sure to take advantage of the free onboard offerings like the kids’ clubs, game nights, and even the unique themed parties (like Pirate Night) to get the most out of your cruise.
8. Save on Shore Excursions by Booking Independently
While Disney offers some amazing shore excursions, they can be pricey, especially for families. If you’re willing to do a bit of research, you can often find more affordable options by booking excursions through independent companies or directly through the port. Many excursions offer similar activities, such as sightseeing tours, beach days, or snorkeling trips, for a fraction of the cost. Just be sure that the company is reputable and that you’ll return to the ship on time.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting a popular port like Nassau, Grand Cayman, or Cozumel, look for local tour companies or excursion providers with good reviews. You can save significantly by booking in advance.
9. Use Onboard Credits for Souvenirs
If you’re trying to stick to a budget, onboard credits are an excellent way to save money for souvenirs or extra activities without reaching for your wallet. Many travel agents or Disney promotions offer onboard credits when you book your cruise through them. Use these credits to cover the cost of things like photos, souvenirs, or even spa treatments. It’s like having extra spending money without actually spending more!
10. Avoid Common Mistakes that Cause Overpaying
There are a few common mistakes people make when booking a Disney Cruise that can lead to overpaying. Here are a few to avoid:
- Not taking advantage of the discounts: Make sure to check for military, resident, or repeat cruiser discounts before you book.
- Not factoring in gratuities: Disney charges automatic gratuities. Make sure to factor this into your budget so it doesn’t surprise you at the end of your cruise. An 18% gratuity is automatically added to bar, beverage, wine, deck service tabs and spa services.
- Booking excursions or dining at the last minute: Popular excursions and dining experiences can fill up quickly. Booking in advance not only locks in your spot, but it often comes with discounts or special offers.
- Overbuying souvenirs: While the Disney shops are filled with tempting merchandise, set a souvenir budget for each family member ahead of time to avoid overspending.
Final Thoughts
A Disney Cruise is an unforgettable experience, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. By planning ahead, booking strategically, and knowing where to save—whether it’s on dining, excursions, or onboard activities—you can enjoy all the magic without the hefty price tag. From taking advantage of early bird rates to packing your own snacks, these tips will help ensure you have a budget-friendly and magical vacation at sea. Happy cruising!