A Disney Cruise is a dream vacation for many families.  While Disney Cruises are spectacular and worth the price tag, the price is 30-40% higher than other cruises in its category. The cost of a Disney Cruise can be a significant factor in deciding whether or not to book. The cost of a Disney Cruise varies depending on a few factors, such as the ship, the itinerary, and the time of year.

 

The cost of a Disney Cruise can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. The price of a Disney Cruise includes accommodations, meals, entertainment, and activities. Guests can choose from various staterooms, including inside, oceanview, and balcony. The price of a stateroom varies depending on the type of stateroom and the location on the ship.

Basic Costs of a Disney Cruise

Disney Cruise Line offers a range of itineraries and destinations, and the cost of a Disney Cruise can vary widely depending on factors such as the time of year, the length of the cruise, the type of stateroom, and the destination. However, some basic costs are typical to all Disney Cruises.

Cruise Fare

The cruise fare is the base cost of the cruise and includes accommodations, meals, and most onboard activities and entertainment. The cruise fare varies depending on the length of the cruise, the type of stateroom, and the destination.

For example, a 3-night Bahamian cruise on the Disney Dream in September 2023 starts at $1,395 per person for an inside stateroom, while a 7-night Alaskan cruise on the Disney Wonder in July 2023 starts at $3,535 per person for an inside stateroom.

Taxes, Fees, and Port Expenses

In addition to the cruise fare, guests are responsible for taxes, fees, and port expenses. These charges vary depending on the itinerary and can include government taxes, customs fees, and port charges.

For example, the taxes, fees, and port expenses for the 3-night Bahamian cruise on the Disney Dream in September 2023 are $84.88 per person, while the taxes, fees, and port expenses for the 7-night Alaskan cruise on the Disney Wonder in July 2023 are $285.06 per person.

Gratuities

Disney Cruise Line recommends that guests tip their stateroom host, dining room server, assistant server, and head server. The recommended gratuity amount is $14.50 per person per day for guests in standard staterooms and $15.50 per person per day for guests in concierge-level staterooms.

For example, the recommended gratuity for a 3-night Bahamian cruise on the Disney Dream in September 2023 is $43.50 per person for guests in a standard stateroom, while the recommended gratuity for a 7-night Alaskan cruise on the Disney Wonder in July 2023 is $108.50 per person for guests in a standard stateroom.

Overall, the basic costs of a Disney Cruise include the cruise fare, taxes, fees, port expenses, and gratuities. These costs can vary depending on the itinerary and other factors, but guests can use these basic costs as a starting point when planning their Disney Cruise vacation.

Package Inclusions and Exclusions

Disney Cruise Line offers various packages catering to different budgets and preferences. The price of a Disney Cruise package includes a range of amenities and services, but there are also some exclusions to keep in mind.

Inclusions

When booking a Disney Cruise, guests can expect the following inclusions:

• Accommodations: The price of a Disney Cruise package includes a stateroom or suite, which comes with a host of amenities, such as comfortable bedding, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom.
• Dining: All meals are included in the price of the cruise, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks throughout the day. Guests can choose from various dining options, from casual buffets to formal sit-down restaurants.
• Entertainment: Disney Cruise Line is known for its top-notch entertainment, and guests can enjoy Broadway-style shows, live music, and other performances throughout their trip.
• Activities: There are plenty of activities to keep guests of all ages entertained, including pools, water slides, sports courts, and kids’ clubs.
• Character experiences: Disney characters are a big part of the Disney Cruise experience, and guests can meet and interact with their favorite characters throughout their trip.

Exclusions

While many amenities and services are included in the price of a Disney Cruise package, there are some exclusions to keep in mind:

• Alcoholic beverages: Alcoholic beverages are not included in the price of the cruise package, and guests will need to pay for any drinks they order.
• Shore excursions: While there are plenty of activities to enjoy onboard the ship, guests who want to explore ports of call will need to pay for shore excursions separately.
• Gratuities: Gratuities for stateroom attendants, dining room servers, and other crew members are not included in the price of the cruise package and will be added to guests’ onboard accounts.
• Spa treatments: Guests who want to indulge in spa treatments or other wellness services will need to pay for these separately.

Overall, a Disney Cruise package offers a wide range of amenities and services, but guests should be aware of the exclusions and budget accordingly.

Cost Variations by Destinations

Disney Cruise Line offers various destinations, and the cost of a Disney Cruise varies depending on the location. Here are some of the destinations and their corresponding prices:

Caribbean

The Caribbean is the most popular destination for Disney Cruises. The cost of a Caribbean Disney Cruise varies depending on the length of the trip, the ship, and the itinerary. Generally, a 7-night Caribbean Disney Cruise costs around $1,500 to $3,000 per person.

Alaska

Alaska is a unique and exciting destination for a Disney Cruise. The cost of an Alaska Disney Cruise is higher than a Caribbean Disney Cruise due to the limited sailing season and the higher operating costs. A 7-night Alaska Disney Cruise costs around $2,500 to $5,000 per person.

Europe

Disney Cruise Line offers various European destinations, such as the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the British Isles. The cost of a European Disney Cruise varies depending on the length of the trip, the ship, and the itinerary. Generally, a 7-night Mediterranean Disney Cruise costs around $2,500 to $6,000 per person.

Hawaii

Disney Cruise Line offers a Hawaiian itinerary that includes stops in Honolulu, Kahului, Hilo, Nawiliwili, and Ensenada. A Hawaiian Disney Cruise costs more than a Caribbean Disney Cruise due to the longer sailing distance and the higher operating costs. A 10-night Hawaiian Disney Cruise costs around $4,000 to $8,000 per person.

Transatlantic

Disney Cruise Line offers a transatlantic itinerary that includes stops in various European cities and New York City. The cost of a Transatlantic Disney Cruise is higher than a Caribbean Disney Cruise due to the longer sailing distance and the higher operating costs. A 14-night Transatlantic Disney Cruise costs around $4,500 to $9,000 per person.

In conclusion, the cost of a Disney Cruise varies depending on the destination, length of the trip, ship, and itinerary. Researching and comparing different options is best to find the best Disney Cruise that fits your budget and preferences.

Cost Variations by Seasons

Disney Cruise prices vary depending on the season. The cost of a Disney Cruise is typically higher during peak seasons, such as holidays and summer months. The following are some of the seasonal variations in Disney Cruise prices:

• Fall and Winter: These seasons are considered to be the “off-season” for Disney Cruises. During these months, the prices are generally lower compared to peak seasons. The months of September, October, November, and December are good options for those who are looking for a budget-friendly Disney Cruise.
• Spring: The prices for Disney Cruises during the spring months of March, April, and May are generally moderate. The weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds compared to peak seasons.
• Summer: The summer months of June, July, and August are the peak seasons for Disney Cruises. The prices during this time are generally higher due to the high demand. Families with school-aged children often choose this time to go on a Disney Cruise.

It is important to note that the prices may vary depending on the itinerary, length of the cruise, and the type of stateroom chosen. It is recommended to book a Disney Cruise well in advance to get the best deals and avoid higher prices during peak seasons.

In conclusion, the cost of a Disney Cruise can vary depending on the season. Fall and winter months are generally considered to be the off-season, while summer months are the peak season with higher prices. It is important to plan ahead and book a Disney Cruise well in advance to get the best deals.

Cost Variations by Cruise Length

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of cruise lengths, ranging from three to fourteen nights. The cost of a Disney Cruise varies depending on the length of the cruise, as well as the time of year and the itinerary.

Shorter cruises, such as three- or four-night sailings, tend to be less expensive than longer cruises. However, shorter cruises may not offer as many onboard activities or as many ports of call as longer cruises. Additionally, shorter cruises tend to be more popular with families with young children, so they may book up faster and have higher demand.

On the other hand, longer cruises, such as seven- or ten-night sailings, tend to offer more ports of call and more onboard activities. These cruises may also be less crowded than shorter cruises, as they are less popular with families with young children. However, longer cruises can be more expensive than shorter cruises.

It’s important to note that the cost of a Disney Cruise can also vary depending on the time of year. Peak travel periods, such as school holidays and summer months, are more expensive than off-peak periods. Additionally, the itinerary can also affect the cost of the cruise. Certain itineraries, including exclusive ports of call or special events, may be more expensive than others.

Overall, the cost of a Disney Cruise can vary significantly depending on the length of the cruise, the time of year, and the itinerary. It’s important to research and compare different options to find the best value for your budget.

Additional Costs

In addition to the base fare, several additional costs are associated with a Disney Cruise. These costs can add up quickly, so knowing them before booking is essential to save yourself sticker shock afterward.

Gratuities

Gratuities are automatically added to guests’ onboard accounts for dining, stateroom, and other services. The current amount deducted gratuity amount is $14.50 per day for standard staterooms and $15.50 per day for concierge-level staterooms. If you want to give above and beyond that is at your discretion.

Excursions

Disney offers a variety of shore excursions at each port of call. These excursions range from snorkeling and zip-lining to cultural tours and shopping trips. Prices for excursions vary depending on the activity and duration. You can book through third party cruise excursion lines such as Shore Excursions Group to save 20-30 percent.

Alcoholic Beverages

Alcoholic beverages are not included in the base fare and must be purchased separately. Prices for drinks vary, but guests can expect to pay around $7-10 for a beer and $10-15 for a cocktail. There is not an unlimited drinks package like there is on other cruise lines like Royal Carribean or Norwegian Cruise lines.

Spa Services

Disney Cruise Line offers various spa services, including massages, facials, and body treatments. Prices for spa services vary depending on the treatment and duration.

Specialty Dining

In addition to the main dining rooms, Disney Cruise Line offers several specialty restaurants, including Palo and Remy. These restaurants require an additional dining fee, with prices ranging from $40-125 per person.

Internet Access

Internet access is available onboard for an additional fee. Guests can purchase a package with a certain amount of data or pay per minute. Prices cost betweeen $12-36 per day for internet.

Overall, guests should budget for additional costs when booking a Disney Cruise. Being aware of these costs upfront allows guests to plan accordingly and ensure a stress-free vacation.

Costs for Special Experiences

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of memorable experiences that guests can add to their cruise packages for an additional cost. These experiences range from spa treatments to exclusive dining options and can add a touch of luxury to any Disney Cruise.

One popular option is the Royal Court Royal Tea, a stunning tea party hosted by Disney Princesses. This experience costs $220 per child and $69 per adult. Guests can enjoy tea and snacks while interacting with their favorite princesses.

For guests looking for a more intimate dining experience, Disney Cruise Line offers Palo and Remy, two upscale restaurants requiring reservations and an additional fee. Palo offers Italian cuisine, which costs $40 per person, while Remy offers French cuisine, which costs $125 per person.

For relaxation and pampering, guests can visit the Senses Spa and Salon. Services range from massages to facials and can cost anywhere from $119 to $499, depending on the treatment and length of time.

Finally, for the ultimate Disney Cruise experience, guests can book a stay in one of the luxurious Concierge-level staterooms. These rooms offer additional amenities and services, including a dedicated concierge, access to exclusive lounges, and priority boarding. Prices for these rooms vary depending on the itinerary and room type.

Overall, while these exceptional experiences come at an additional cost, they can add a touch of magic and luxury to any Disney Cruise vacation.

Money Saving Tips for a Disney Cruise

 

When planning a Disney Cruise, several ways exist to save money without sacrificing the experience. Here are some money-saving tips to consider:

• Book Early: Booking early can help you save money on your Disney Cruise. Early booking discounts are often available, and you can lock in your preferred cabin category and sail date.
• Be Flexible: If you are flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to take advantage of last-minute deals and discounts.
• Choose a Lower Cabin Category: Choosing a lower cabin category can save you money without sacrificing the Disney Cruise experience. The staterooms on Disney Cruise Line ships are designed to be comfortable and stylish, regardless of the category.
• Take Advantage of Onboard Activities: Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of onboard activities that are included in the price of your cruise. Take advantage of these activities to save money on entertainment.
• Book Shore Excursions Independently: While Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of shore excursions, booking independently can save you money. Research local tour operators and compare prices to find the best deal.

Following these money-saving tips, you can enjoy a magical Disney Cruise without breaking the bank ( well as much as you could.)

Conclusion

Overall, a Disney Cruise can be a great vacation option for families with children. Keep in mind that the cost can vary greatly depending on some factors, including the time of year, length of the cruise, and type of stateroom selected.

For those on a budget, finding a lower-priced cruise during the off-season or by booking far in advance may be possible. Opting for an inside stateroom rather than a balcony or suite can also help reduce costs.

On the other hand, those looking for a more luxurious experience may want to consider booking a concierge-level stateroom or suite, which can come with additional amenities and services.

Ultimately, the cost of a Disney Cruise is a personal decision that will depend on individual preferences and budget. However, with careful planning and consideration of all available options, it’s possible to find a cruise that offers you great value for the price.