How Much Does a Disney Cruise Cost: The Definitive Guide for 2023
Planning a vacation can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to selecting a Disney Cruise and considering the associated costs. As you begin your research, you may find that the prices for a Disney Cruise vary quite a bit, based on factors such as sailing duration, stateroom preferences, and onboard activities. Nevertheless, gaining a general understanding of how much a Disney Cruise costs is essential in determining the best option for your family and budget.
The cost of a Disney Cruise can range anywhere from $1,000 for a cruise for two passengers to upwards of $6,600 for a four-night cruise for a family of four. Your cruise price typically includes essential items such as your stateroom, meals, and certain onboard experiences, but keep in mind that additional expenses like excursions and souvenirs can significantly increase the overall cost. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the details of Disney Cruise pricing, helping you make an informed decision about your upcoming vacation.
Factors Affecting Disney Cruise Cost
Cruise Length
An important aspect to consider when understanding the cost of a Disney Cruise is the length of the cruise. The per-person cost for each night typically ranges between $250-$300 for a 7-night Caribbean cruise 1. However, different lengths of cruises will have different price ranges. For example, a 3-day cruise to the Bahamas has its cheapest fare at $629 per person 2.
Destination
Another significant factor influencing the cost of a Disney Cruise is the destination of the cruise. Cruise prices will vary based on the regions and ports visited during the journey. For example, a Caribbean cruise might have a different price range than a Mediterranean cruise or a cruise to Alaska.
Time of Year
The time of year during which you choose to sail can have a notable impact on the cost of your Disney Cruise. Peak times, such as school vacations and holidays, tend to be more expensive due to higher demand for staterooms 3. To get the best possible pricing, consider sailing during less busy times of the year, like early spring or late fall.
Stateroom Category
The type of stateroom you choose will also heavily influence the cost of a Disney Cruise. Smaller, interior rooms are generally more affordable, while larger rooms with balconies on the ship’s exterior tend to be more expensive 4. The most expensive stateroom options are the concierge suites, which offer the most space and the best amenities.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included Amenities and Services
Disney Cruise prices include a variety of amenities and services for guests to enjoy. Your stateroom, along with all applicable taxes and port fees, is part of the package. Meals such as breakfast, lunch and dinner are included, as well as buffet meals and snacks throughout the day.
Soft drinks are provided at meals and at each ship’s beverage station, allowing for easy access to beverages anytime. For entertainment purposes, most onboard activities and shows are also included in the cruise price. Additionally, ice cream is available throughout the ship at no extra cost, ensuring a sweet treat for passengers while at sea 3.
Additional Expenses
Some expenses on a Disney Cruise are not covered in the basic price and will require additional payment. Alcoholic beverages, smoothies, non-alcoholic specialty drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water are not included as part of the package, and guests should be prepared to spend extra on these items throughout the duration of the cruise5.
Adult-only dining experiences, such as Palo or Remy restaurants, are also not covered in the cruise fare and will require guests to pay an additional fee for their meals1. Additionally, while most onboard entertainment and activities are included, there may be select events or experiences which come with an added charge+3.
Disney cruises start at a base price of around $1,000, but the final cost will depend on various factors such as stateroom selection, sail duration, and chosen destination3. Travellers should carefully consider which inclusions and exclusions are important to them in order to accurately budget for their Disney Cruise experience.
Saving Strategies
Early Bookings
One of the best ways to save money on a Disney cruise is to book early. When Disney opens bookings a year or more in advance, it starts with its lowest cruise fares. As the ship sells out, the prices go up. Thus, booking a cruise early can save you a significant amount of money compared to waiting until closer to the departure date 1.
To stay informed about early booking opportunities, consider signing up for Disney Cruise Line’s newsletter or follow their social media accounts for updates and announcements.
Disney Visa Card Discounts
Another saving strategy is to take advantage of Disney Visa Card discounts. Disney Visa Cardholders have access to exclusive discounts and offers on Disney Cruise Line vacations. This can include onboard credits, reduced deposit rates, and special pricing on select itineraries 2.
To maximize savings, make sure to use your Disney Visa Card when booking your cruise and keep an eye out for any exclusive cardholder promotions or offers.
Last-Minute Deals
Though booking early can secure the lowest prices, you might still find significant savings with last-minute deals on Disney cruises. Companies occasionally offer discounted rates on unsold inventory, especially for cruises departing within the next few months.
However, it is essential to be flexible with your travel dates and accommodations, as the availability of last-minute deals can be limited and unpredictable. Keep an eye on Disney Cruise Line’s website or contact a travel agent specializing in cruises, as they can help find the best last-minute deals for you 3.
Comparing Disney Cruise to Other Cruise Lines
Disney Cruises are known for their premium services and unique experiences, but they also come with a higher price tag compared to other cruise lines. For instance, a seven-night Disney cruise has an average cost of $2,950 per person. In contrast, cruise lines like Carnival or Norwegian often offer more affordable options.
Cost Comparison:
When choosing a family vacation, it’s essential to compare prices among different cruise lines. A Disney cruise can cost two or three times as much per day as a sailing with Carnival, Norwegian, or MSC. Here’s a brief comparison of some popular cruise lines:
- Disney Cruise Line: Known for premium services and onboard entertainment, Disney cruises tend to be more expensive than other cruise lines. Prices depend on the desired stateroom and itinerary, but you should expect to spend at least $1,000 for a cruise for two passengers.
- Royal Caribbean: Offering a variety of onboard activities and entertainment, Royal Caribbean can be a more budget-friendly option compared to Disney; however, it’s still considered one of the more expensive cruise lines.
- Carnival Cruise Line: Catering to budget-conscious families, Carnival cruises are known for being more affordable, with a wide range of activities to keep the entire family entertained.
- Norwegian Cruise Line: Famously offering flexible scheduling and dining options, Norwegian Cruise Line provides a more laid-back experience, often at a lower cost than Disney.
While the prices of Disney cruises may be higher, they provide a unique experience tailored to families and Disney fans. Onboard, you can expect character greetings, themed restaurants, and Broadway-caliber stage shows. These exclusive experiences would be hard to find on other cruise lines.
However, choosing a cruise line involves personal preferences and weighing the value of experiences and amenities offered. While Disney cruises are more expensive, they’re known for excellent customer service, engaging entertainment, and well-maintained ships, which makes them worth considering for a memorable family vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost for a Disney Cruise?
The cost of a Disney cruise can vary greatly based on factors like your travel preferences, time of year, and destinations. Generally, for two passengers, you can expect to spend at least $1,000, though prices can be much higher depending on your choices.
What is the average price for a 7-day cruise?
A 7-day Disney Cruise price will also depend on factors like cabin type, itinerary, and travel season. Since prices can vary so much, it’s hard to provide an average price, but expect to pay at least a few thousand dollars for a week-long trip.
How much is a Disney Cruise per person 2023?
For a cruise in 2023, you should expect to spend at least $1,000 per person, but this amount can increase significantly based on various factors such as cabin choice and itinerary.
How much is a Disney Cruise for a family of 5?
The cost of a Disney Cruise for a family of 5 will depend on the chosen stateroom, itinerary, and travel season. To determine the exact cost for your family, consider reaching out to Disney Cruise Line for a quote or use their booking tool to explore different options.
How expensive is the Disney Cruise?
Disney Cruises can be more expensive than other cruises, with prices starting at around $1,000 for two passengers. However, they offer a unique experience that includes various amenities and exclusive Disney-themed entertainment.
Is Disney Cruise worth the extra money?
Determining whether a Disney Cruise is worth the extra money depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Your cruise price covers many aspects of the onboard experience, such as staterooms, meals, soft drinks, snacks, and ice cream, as well as Disney Character Meet & Greets. If you or your family are big Disney fans or appreciate the added touches and theming included in a Disney Cruise, it may be worth the investment.
Footnotes
- https://cruisenonstop.com/disney/how-much-does-a-disney-cruise-cost/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
- https://cruise.blog/2022/01/how-much-does-disney-cruise-cost ↩ ↩2
- https://www.familytravelmagazine.com/how-much-does-a-disney-cruise-cost/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
- https://www.cruisebooking.com/articles/disney-cruise-tips/what-is-the-average-cost-of-a-disney-cruise ↩
- https://magicguides.com/what-is-included-on-a-disney-cruise-and-what-isnt/ ↩
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