can i change my disney cruise reservation

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Disney Cruise Cancellation Policy – Complete Guide 2022

Disclosure: This Disney Cruise cancellation policy page contains affiliate links. Read  full Disclosure Policy .

The D isney Cruise cancellation policy is one of the biggest questions from those considering a Disney cruise vacation .

Before you book a  Disney Cruise , you might ask yourself:

“Can I change my mind later and get my money back?

The short answer is  yes…usually.

Most stateroom reservation deposits can be fully refunded, as long as you cancel prior to your “Paid in Full” (PIF) date.

In this article, I will explain the basics of the  Disney Cruise cancellation policy  and how much of a refund you can get if you have to back out of your trip.

Table of Contents

• Can I cancel a Disney Cruise and get my money back?
• What is a Paid In Full date?
• How to cancel a Disney Cruise?
• What are the cancellation fees?
• Can I change my Disney Cruise date?
• Flexible Refund Policy due to COVID-19

Can I Cancel a Disney Cruise and Get My Money Back?

In most cases,  yes , you can cancel and get a full refund.

Full refunds are available if you cancel before your Paid in Full (see below) date.

There are a couple exceptions to this:

1) If you want to cancel a suite or Concierge reservation.

In this case, you will lose your deposit amount per guest when cancelling anytime before your paid in full date.

2) You booked using “Guarantee with restrictions”

The “Guarantee with restrictions” category staterooms such as categories IGT, OGT, and VGT are non-refundable and must be paid in full at time of booking.

What is a “Paid in Full” Date?

Your Paid in Full (PIF) date will vary and will depend on your itinerary, sail date, and cruise length.

It will fall somewhere between 90 and 120 days prior to your departure.

To find out your specific date, check your confirmation email or logon to your  My Cruise Reservation  on the Disney Cruise Line website.

How to Cancel a Disney Cruise

Cancellations must be made over the phone (800-951-3532) or in writing.

If you booked through a  travel agent , make sure to go through them to cancel. They will take care of you.

What are the Disney Cruise Cancellation Fees?

For sailings through december 31, 2022.

Due to ongoing concerns about COVID-19, Disney has relaxed the cancellation fees and offered some travel flexibility on voyages taking plce before the end of 2022.

WHAT’S DIFFERENT : For sailings through December 31, 2022, the cancellation fee has been relaxed to full refunds available up to 59 days prior to sailing. For all other sailings, see the regular cancellation fee schedule below.

For Sailings After December 31, 2022 , aka The Standard Fees

There are NO fees if you cancel any Disney Cruise more than 90 days prior to the date you sail (aka, commencement date).

If you need to cancel your DCL reservation AFTER your Paid in Full date, there are cancellation fees.

Here is a list of fees depending on your sailing:

Cruises 1 to 5 Nights (Excluding Suites and Concierge Staterooms) Days Prior to Vacation Commencement Date – Fee Amount

• 89 to 45 days – Deposit per Guest
• 44 to 30 days – 50% of vacation price per Guest
• 29 to 15 days – 75% of vacation price per Guest
• 14 days or less – 100% of vacation price per Guest

Cruises 6 Nights or More (Excluding Suites and Concierge Staterooms) Days Prior to Vacation Commencement Date – Fee Amount

• 119 to 56 days – Deposit per Guest
• 55 to 30 days – 50% of vacation price per Guest

Suite and Concierge Staterooms: All Sailings Days Prior to Vacation Commencement Date – Fee Amount

• 90 days or more – Deposit per Guest
• 89 to 56 days – 50% of vacation price per Guest
• 55 to 30 days – 75% of vacation price per Guest
• 29 days or less – 100% of vacation price per Guest

CATEGORIES WITH RESTRICTIONS Reservations for Inside, Outside or Verandah Categories with Restrictions are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE. That is, there are no refunds. A 100% cruise cancellation fee applies from time of payment.

Can I change my Disney cruise reservation to another date?

If you’re sailing on or before September 30, 2022, you can change your sail date up to 15 days prior to departure.

KEEP IN MIND

• If you want to change your sail date, you must move your sail date to one that starts BEFORE September 30, 2023.
• You won’t be able to switch your reservation back to the original sail date after making this change.
• If you cancel your new sail date, cancellation fees will be the greater of: a) cancellation fees that would have been applicable to the original sail date; or b) cancellation fees applicable to the new sail date.
• Standard air cancellation fees apply if you booked flights through Disney Cruise Line.

Flexible Refunds for COVID-19 Related Issues

If you are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms or have been exposed to the virus, Disney Cruise Line currently will allow you to receive a refund without Disney-imposed cancellation fees OR apply your cruise fare to another sailing in the future.

THE DETAILS

• Your new sail date must take commence before September 30, 2023.
• You will not be able to change back to your original sailing date.
• Have symptoms of COVID-19
• Have a temperature of 100.4°F or greater
• Have had known exposure to a person with COVID-19 within the previous 14 days
• Have tested positive for COVID-19
• If you request a refund, it will be issued in your original form of payment
• Guests with these symptoms on day of Embarkation will be denied boarding. Guests who are denied boarding will receive a Denied Boarding Voucher for the full amount of their sailing or a refund without Disney-imposed cancellation fees.
• Disney will not refund any travel insurance or other cancellation fees imposed by third parties (like arilines)
• Once you’re on board, if you test positive for COVID-19 or must quarantine, you’ll receive a pro-rated voucher for a future sailing or pro-rated refund.

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Writing to cancel Disney cruise – cancellation request. What’s the email address to do this? Calling them did not help.

Disney Cruise Online Check In Process Explained

Are you looking for tips and information on navigating the Disney cruise check in process? The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App really comes in handy while sailing, but it also simplifies the registration and planning process before your trip even begins!

In addition to displaying the really exciting cruise countdown, the DCL Navigator App allows you to view the details of your reservation and book activities for your upcoming Disney cruise.

In this post, I will walk you through the Disney Cruise Line online check in process using the features of the Navigator App. We will discuss what time online check in begins, and I’ll give you tips on how to secure an early port arrival time along with coveted reservations.

So, continue reading below to find out all the tips and hacks you need to know for the Disney Cruise Line online check in process!

Disney Cruise Countdown

Once you download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App, you will be prompted to login to your DCL account. This is where you can create an account or type in your current login information.

The screen should then display the reservation for your upcoming cruise. After clicking on your reservation, you will see a countdown calculator similar to the one pictured above.

This countdown is a super exciting reminder of how many days you have until your cruise. It’s also a really important feature since some important deadlines occur before your cruise embarkation day .

When can you check in?

While on the Disney Cruise Navigator App, you can scroll down below your stateroom information to find the important steps you need to take for planning your Disney cruise. We will go through each of these My Reservations sections below:

My Reservations

In the spot labeled Cruise Essentials , you will find important things like your Disney Cruise Line balance and your reservation information. You will also see the online check in button in this section.

If you are a first time cruiser with Disney Cruise Line, you may check in 30 days prior to your sail date as long as you’ve made your final payment. If you have previously sailed with Disney Cruise Line, the check in days for each Castaway Club level are as follows:

• Silver Members – 33 Days before Sailing
• Gold Members – 35 Days before Sailing
• Platinum Members – 38 Days before Sailing
• Pearl Members – 40 Days before Sailing

What time does Disney cruise online check in start?

Once you arrive at the 30-day mark before your scheduled cruise (or sooner depending on Castaway Club level), you may be wondering what time you can actually complete online check-in for your Disney Cruise Line vacation. Online check-in should open at midnight EST (12:00 am Eastern Standard Time).

What do you need for online check in?

When you are ready to fully complete the Disney cruise check in process, you’ll need to have several items on hand. Below, I will list each of these so that you are prepared once your online check in window opens up.

First, you will need to have your official identification documents handy. We highly recommend cruising with a passport even if it is not necessarily mandated for your itinerary.

Even though many cruises sailing from the United States and back allow U.S. citizens to travel with a birth certificate instead, you will need a passport in the rare (but possible) event you have a medical emergency overseas.

To view a full list of the travel documents required for your sailing, you can check out the DCL website here . During the Disney cruise online check in process, you will need to submit a photo of each passport/birth certificate. Each image should be free from glares and clearly show the information.

Credit Card

You’ll need to assign a credit card to your Disney Cruise Line account. This is the card that you will use onboard when charging things through your Key to the World Card or DisneyBand+. If you need to change the card once onboard, you can visit Guest Services for help.

Flight and Hotel Information

Disney Cruise Line will request that you fill in your pre and post cruise travel information. So, you will want to have your reservation info. for flights and hotels handy to type in.

Photo of Each Passenger

Disney Cruise Line used to take photos of cruisers at the port during your cruise terminal check in process. However, you now need to upload a photo of each person in your travel party. These selfie style photos need to clearly show each passenger’s face above the shoulders in a similar style to a passport or driver’s license photo. (Although, they should not be the same photo that is on your ID.)

Disney Cruise Check in Process

When you are ready to fully complete the Disney cruise check in process, you’ll want to set aside close to an hour (if it’s your first cruise) to give yourself enough time to cover all the parts. I will go over each section of the tedious online check-in process below.

Once your window opens up for checking in, your Navigator App screen will include different sections like Guest Information, Onboard Account, Travel Plans, Port Arrival Time, etc.

You will need to go through each of the tabs to fill out the relevant information. While this can be a time consuming process; once you complete it, Disney saves your information for your next cruise.

I will explain each section in more detail below:

Guest Information

This is the section where you fill in your personal information and your passport/identification info. If you have previously sailed with Disney Cruise Line, this should already be completed for you. If your contact information or your passport information has changed from what is shown on your account, you will need to update it.

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Guests also need to upload a security photo (personal selfie) for each individual in your travel party. In addition, Disney Cruise Line requires guests to upload photos of their citizenship documents (birth certificate, passport, etc.).

Onboard Account

You will need to add a credit card to the Onboard Account section. While on the cruise, DCL charges gratuities and anything extra you choose to purchase to your online account. In this section, you can also choose whether or not to grant charging privileges to your family members.

Since my kids were 6 and 1 during our last sailing, they were not allowed to charge anything to the onboard account. If you have older kids, you can change this option to meet your needs.

Travel Plans

The Travel Plans tab asks for very specific information about your pre/post cruise plans. This includes the name of your hotel, flight information, etc. You can fill this out to the best of your ability during the check-in process. If you don’t yet have all of this information, you can always go back later and correct it. For example, you can choose to arrive by car if you don’t have your flight information yet.

Port Arrival Time (PAT)

Next, you will choose your Port Arrival Time. Once you click on this tab, you will see a list of times available for you to ARRIVE at the port. This is NOT the time that you will board the ship.

For example, if you select a Port Arrival Time of 11:00, that means you plan to show up at the cruise terminal at 11:00. It has been my experience that boarding does not typically begin until at least 11:30, so you shouldn’t expect to be on the ship immediately after arriving for your 11:00 PAT.

It’s also been our experience that if you purchased Disney Cruise Line ground transportation , you will not be prompted to choose an arrival time. Instead, you will be permitted to enter the cruise terminal once the DCL transfer shuttle drops you off at the port.

Cruise Contract and Port Arrival Form

Once you have completed online check in for your Disney cruise, you will be prompted to review the cruise contract. Then, your last step is to print the Port Arrival Form in the bottom tab. You will need this form on embarkation day when you arrive at the cruise terminal.

Note that you can save the Port Arrival Form QR Code to scan on your phone at the port. However, we like to also have a printed copy of the form and prefer to print it as well.

The Port Arrival Form now shows your Muster Station and Boarding Number. (In the past, you did not get this information until you received your Key to the World card in the terminal.)

After choosing your PAT, you can register your child for the kids club appropriate for his/her age. You may also note special needs or dietary restrictions for your child in this section. Additionally, you will need to choose who your child is permitted to disembark the cruise ship with.

Children are not allowed to get off the ship without an adult. However, there may be an adult in a different stateroom with whom your child is permitted to debark. For example, you can choose to allow your child to get off the ship with a grandparent staying in a different stateroom. You may choose to allow this at EVERY port, at just Castaway Cay, or not at all.

More App Features

In addition to the check in process for Disney Cruise Line that we discussed above, the Navigator App is a great resource for additional trip information and tasks.

Cruise Options

In this section of your account, you will see some of the options that were available for you to choose during your Disney cruise booking. This includes your dinner seating time, trip insurance, Disney cruise ground transfers, and special requests.

Note that if you are not happy with your dining time, you can call Disney Cruise Line to ask the cast members to move you to a different seating. If you booked through a travel agent, the agent will need to call to do this. Additionally, you can regularly check the app to see if a more desired seating opens up.

Finally, you can often switch seating times onboard the ship by meeting with crew members in the dining room during the specified changing time. You can find more information in my post: Disney Cruise Dining Rotation Explained .

The next section of your Navigator App displays the itinerary for the cruise you booked. This is where you will see your cruise broken down by day. Some of the important events available onboard will be listed here.

Once you book your activities, you will see them listed in this section as well. You can also click on the Add Activities button on your itinerary to add certain items to your plans.

Disney Cruise Onboard Activities Booking

If you are a first-time cruiser with Disney Cruise Line , you can book some of your cruise activities 75 days before sailing. Under your cruise itinerary on the Navigator App, you will see a section that looks like this:

You can click on each of the categories listed to book cruise activities offered. I will walk you through each of these below.

Disney Port Adventures

When you click on the section for port adventures (aka shore excursions), you will again see your cruise itinerary. Here, you can click on the ports you are scheduled to visit on your cruise. The app then takes you to a page that lists all of the available Disney port adventures at that location.

For example, if your cruise is visiting Castaway Cay , you will see excursions like bicycle rentals, parasailing, fly fishing, etc. After clicking on the port adventure that you want, you will be able to choose the family members that want to take part in that excursion.

Most of the options for port adventures have age restrictions. If you are cruising with a toddler , your available excursions will be narrowed down quite a bit.

The age restrictions are prominently displayed, and you won’t be able to click on the name of any family member not meeting the requirements. Next, you will see the available times for the excursion that you want to select. Choose the time that works best for you, and you’re finished!

Disney Spa & Fitness

When you click on the Spa & Fitness tab, you will be directed to your cruise itinerary. You can then select the day that you would like to book a fitness and spa appointments. Disney Cruise Line offers many activities in this section including facials, massages, manicures, personal training, etc.

Just like the section above, you can choose the activity and time that works best for you!It’s important to note that these appointments come with an additional cost and are not included with your cruise fare.

Onboard Fun

Under Onboard Fun in the Disney Cruise Ling Navigator App, you will find activities like wine tasting, Royal Tea, and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.

The princess meet and greet and the Frozen Gathering are also located in this section. These two events are free on your Disney cruise, but you must book a time to attend the character meet and greets because they are so popular.

After clicking on the activity, it’s super simple to choose a day and available time to attend the event. It will then show up in the itinerary section of the app.

When you get on the ship, you just show up at the meet and greet during your scheduled time slot. The cast member at the character meet should have your name on the list.

Adult Dining and Nursery Times

These two sections work the same way as the above activities. Here, you can select the date that is appealing to you. You will then be directed to choose a time for your specified activity, but you should note that you do not pay ahead of time. So, once you book your appointment, it should show up on your itinerary without any further steps.

Final Thoughts on the Disney Cruise Online Check-In Process

The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App and the Disney Cruise Line website are really helpful tools to use for online check-in. Whether your travel plans include leaving from Port Canaveral, Miami, or another cruise port, the Disney cruise online check in system works the same.

The only difference you may find is that port arrival times can vary depending on the port you are sailing from. We highly suggest downloading the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App prior to online check in since it allows you to easily access your reservation and book cruise activities. 

Once you are on the cruise ship, the Navigator App has even more helpful features, including texting! Once you complete each section in the app as described above, you should see a message that your checkin is pending .

Disney Cruise Line will review the information you entered along with your uploaded documents before confirming that your checkin is complete. You will then be ready to set sail to enjoy your cruise vacation.

We hope you have a magical time onboard the cruise ship and at your ports of call!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Thank you for such detailed information! I have two rooms to get checked in…do you think I could do both at the same time, just on two different devices? Also, if I leave travel info blank to start (to fill back in later) would I be able to still get a PAT?

I have never checked in for multiple rooms with Disney Cruise Line, but I linked my two rooms on a different cruise line in order check in for both. I just had to toggle back and forth between the two rooms. You will need to fill out the travel info in order to advance to the next page. But, I would fill out the least amount of info as possible in order to advance. Then, I would go back later and correct it all. For example, you could choose the cash option instead of typing in credit card information. And you could select arriving by car rather than typing out all of your flight information. Just don’t forget to go back and update information later. Have a great trip!

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Placeholder: 8 Questions and Answers

Updated January 21, 2024

What is a placeholder?

A placeholder is a special onboard discount offer on a future Disney cruise. You pay $250 to get a placeholder; the $250 goes towards the cost of the future cruise.

The Disney Cruise Line Onboard Booking Offer allows Guests to make a Placeholder Reservation for a future Disney cruise and enjoy 10% savings off prevailing rates as quoted on disneycruise.com, plus enjoy a reduced deposit on sailings 7 nights and longer . The offer is valid for up to 2 staterooms on one sail date per household on board, regardless of the number of adults in the household. This offer is valid for Categories 4 to 11 only. The cruise must commence within 24 months after the Placeholder Reservation was booked, or the reservation will automatically cancel.

Why should I book a Placeholder?

To save 10% off the prevailing cruise rate of your future cruise. Also, for cruises 7+ nights, the deposit is 10% of the cruise fare. Cruises under 7 nights require a 20% deposit of the cruise fare.

A Placeholder Reservation is an open-ended reservation that allows Guests to select their future sail date at a later time. A $250 deposit must be paid while on board and is fully refundable if the reservation is cancelled. Once a sail date is selected, standard cancellation fees apply.

How do you book a placeholder?

As I mentioned, you can only book your placeholder while aboard a Disney cruise. There are now two ways to book: the DCL Navigator app or going to the Future Cruise Sails desk and picking up a form.

Where do I go to book the placeholder?

Update March 2023 . The Future Cruise desk is not regularly open since Covid. Book your placeholder on the app. Go to the Future Cruise desk, complete the form and drop it into the box located on the desk. I always take a picture of the form after I fill it out, just in case it gets misplaced at the Future Cruise desk. Choose the save 10% off your next cruise on the app. You will be taken to the payment page. If you want to use a different card than the one you have on file, you can.

Your placeholder will be pending until the payment has cleared through the system. I would recommend taking a screenshot of the page in case you have any problems and don’t receive a confirmation of your placeholder.

When can I use my placeholder?

You must use it within 24 months of booking. Disney is strict with the deadline. If the next cruise you want to book is a day after the placeholder expires, you will not be able to use it.

Pro tip: book it as late on the cruise as you can. Don’t wait too late, though. The 10% off future cruise link disappears at midnight of the last full day. I waited too long and had to go to the Guest Services desk to request a form.

10% savings applies only to sailings that commence within 24 months after the Placeholder Reservation is booked on board.

Who can book a placeholder?

Anyone over the age of 18 can book up to two staterooms on one sail date per household onboard.

What is the catch?

You can not use a placeholder on blackout dates or for concierge-level bookings. Also, you currently need to call Disney to apply the placeholder to your chosen cruise. Therefore, if you are booking on opening day, you could be on the phone, on hold for hours.

Blockout dates apply; please contact Disney Cruise Line or your travel agent for specific block out dates. Reservations for future cruises that fall on block out dates are not eligible for the 10% savings offer. The offer cannot be combined with Florida Resident Rates, U.S. Military Rates or with any other special Rates.

Can I transfer it to my travel agent or Costco?

Yes, you have 30 days from purchasing the placeholder on the ship to transfer it to the TA of your choice if you did not name one when you purchased it.

What if I forget to book a placeholder?

I know this is the answer to question number nine, but recently Disney started a new offer for first-time cruisers. Once you disembark your first cruise, you can save up to $350 on your next one with the Castaway Club Welcome Offer . You can save up to $50 a night on the first 7 nights of your second cruise if you book it within 60 days of disembarking.

I hope that I answered many of the questions about placeholders for booking a future Disney cruise. Make sure you check my post about joining a fish extender exchange. Sign up for the newsletter to keep up to date with the latest Disney news and discounts . Check out some of our other tips and tricks for your next Disney Cruise.

This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning, that if you make a purchase through my links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support of this site.

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28 thoughts on “ placeholder: 8 questions and answers ”.

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We last cruised in February 2020 before the COVID shutdown. We secured a placeholder while on board. Do you know if placeholder deadlines have been extended since cruising has not yet resumed?

As far as I know, if you book a cruise with a placeholder before it expires you can use it to book a cruise up to Fall 2022. If you have not used your placeholder and the expiry date passes DCL will refund your money.

In my Castaway Club account, my pre-COVID placeholder is listed as one of my cruises with a Jan 1, 2034 date in a GTY room.

With the placeholder to I need to cruise within 24 months or do I need to book within 24 months?

Your cruise needs to begin within 24 months.

Hi, as a very lucky cruiser in the UK we did a 3 day cruise based in the UK, whilst onboard we booked a placeholder an received a confirmation email. I have just tried to use but was informed this couldn’t be used as the option was not taken? I booked the original through a T/A and they are confused also. Disney cruise not that helpful when called, any ideas what I can do? I have checked my credit card and they have not taken payment

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Hi – one additional point with the new way of booking On-Board Booking placeholders – if you use the app it will default to your credit card on file. We like to purchase ours with Disney Gift Cards (since we get those at a 5% discount from Target) and there’s no way to do that via the app. You have to go to Guest Services while on the cruise, tell them you want to purchase a placeholder with a Gift Card, and they will set up the order for Disney to follow up with you when you are back home to take the payment and give you your reservation number. It’s a very inefficient system – some folks have had to wait a considerable period of time before getting that call. I ended up calling DCL and getting it arranged when I returned home by calling them instead of waiting for them to call me. Just wanted to share my experience on this specific item. Thank you for all this wonderful info!

How do we actually apply the placeholder credit when booking? I can’t figure it out.

You need to call DCL to apply the placeholder for your booking. The $250 you paid for the placeholder will go towards your deposit.

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Does the 10% discount apply to a cruise booked in the 24 months or is that only for booked cruises while on the current cruise ? Thanks, I can’t seem to figure that part out !

I am not sure what you are asking? The 10% is for any regularly priced cruise fare. The cruise must begin within 24 months of when you booked the placeholder. If your cruise starts on the July 17, 2022 and you book the placeholder on July 21, 2022. You can get the discount on ant cruise that begins by July 21, 2024. It is always a good idea to book your placeholder near the end of your trip. I hope that answers your question 🙂

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Re: the Costco transfer: The 30-day countdown begins on THE DAY YOU PURCHASE THE PLACEHOLDER. You need to purchase a cruise AND transfer it to Costco within that window. If you buy the placeholder and then purchase a cruise with it more than a month later, you are SOL.

My wife and I bought a placeholder onboard the Vancouver-Hawaii cruise last April, and then later that summer, used it to buy a Northern Europe cruise for this September. The next day I called Costco to transfer it, and they couldn’t do it because the purchase date of the cruise gets listed as the purchase date of the placeholder!

Yes, you must transfer the placeholder within 30 days of purchasing it.

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One placeholder ($250) will give you a 10% discount on up to two rooms on a future cruise? Or is it purchase two placeholders ($500) for use on a 10% discount on two rooms on a future cruise? 1 placeholder=1 discounted room or 1 placeholder=2 discounted rooms? Also, if two placeholders purchased they have to be used on SAME future cruise? I’m reading conflicting answers throughout various posts and not sure what is true/false

You need 1 placeholder for 1 discounted room. If you purchase two placeholders on a cruise they must be used on the same cruise. I hope that helps 🙂

Hi! My husband and I are taking our second Disney cruise in February (we got a placeholder last year). On this cruise, can we get placeholders for two cabins with one being for us and the other for my daughter and her family?

Yes you can. Each cabin can book up to two placeholders to be used on one future cruise.

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If we use our placeholder for back to back shorter cruises do we get 10% discount on both cruises? Or would it just be on the first one?

No, sadly you only get the discount on one cruise.

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Booking & Payment

Please select a question:, how can i book a disney cruise, will i be charged to call and speak to a disney expert, where can i find out information and make a group booking, can i book a cruise only reservation, can i book a cruise with a deposit only, how do i pay my balance, how can i change or add details to my booking, do i have the ability to change or upgrade my stateroom, can i reserve connecting staterooms, who do i contact if i have a special requirement, can i arrange for the celebration of a special occasion during our cruise, what is a cruise & stay package, how can i book a cruise & stay package.

You can book your Disney Cruise through our Disney Experts by calling 0800 169 0742*. We advise booking early in order to select the stateroom of your choice. Some staterooms may be more popular than others and these may sell out quickly.

You will not be charged to call and speak to a Disney Expert as this number is a freephone telephone number.

Currently Walt Disney Travel Company are unable to make group bookings, however Disney Cruise Line® direct will be able to assist you with these bookings, offering a number of connecting staterooms. Please call 0800 169 0742*.

Yes, you are welcome to book a cruise only reservation without transportation. Please call our Disney Experts on 0800 169 0742* for more information and to book. If you wish to add transport to your booking at a later date, you can also do this by calling our Disney Experts.

You can make your cruise booking with just a deposit. £150 per person is required at the time you make your booking, plus any additional flight costs (if applicable). The final balance is then payable 100+ days before cruise departure.

To pay the balance of your Disney Cruise please call 0800 169 0742*.

If you wish to amend or make any changes to the details on your booking please call our Disney Experts on 0800 169 0742*.

If you wish to upgrade your stateroom, please call our Disney Experts on 0800 169 0742* or alternatively visit 'My Reservations' on 'My Disney Cruise' or via the ‘Disney Cruise Line Navigator App’.

You can book connecting staterooms or side-by-side staterooms if travelling with another party at the time of booking. To book, please call our Disney Experts on 0800 169 0742*. Please note that connecting and side-by-side staterooms cannot be guaranteed.

In order to cater for any requirements you or your party may have, call our Disney Experts on 0800 169 0742* who will be able to make a booking specific to your needs. A number of adjustments can be made to your booking to ensure your needs are met. You can also make special requests under 'My Reservations' on 'My Disney Cruise’ or via the ‘Disney Cruise Line Navigator App’.

Yes. Whether it’s an anniversary, graduation, birthday, honeymoon, engagement, retirement or reunion, we’re here to help you add even more fun and cheer to your celebration. We recommend letting us know about your special occasion at least 3 weeks prior to sailing so we can make arrangements for you and your guests in one of the dining rooms.

To make arrangements for your special occasion, visit the ‘Disney Cruise Line Navigator App’ or sign into ‘My Reservations’ on ‘My Disney Cruise’, select ‘Special Requests’ and fill out the Special Request form. Orders must be received at least 48 hours prior to departure.

A Cruise & Stay package involves combining a stay at Walt Disney World Resort with a Disney cruise. With easy transfers available for a Disney cruise and stay package, the ultimate holiday is simple to plan, and you’ll soon be on your way to the magic- able to enjoy the fun, thrills and relaxation of both a Disney Cruise and a Walt Disney World stay.

You can add a cruise to the beginning or end of your Walt Disney World Resort booking. When booking with the Walt Disney Travel Company all the details of your ultimate holiday are taken care of!

We know creating the perfect Disney package can be hard; especially deciding what should go where. This is why we have put together a sample itinerary to help give you some ideas on what your ultimate Disney holiday could look like.

Explore our Disney Cruise and Stay Packages to combine your trip to Walt Disney World with a Disney Cruise for the ultimate Disney experience! You can choose to book your Walt Disney World stay online and then call our Disney Experts to add your cruise on 0800 169 0742* or book your whole package with our Disney Experts.

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For more information, prices, or to book your holiday call freephone on 0800 169 0742 *.

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Why can't I book online? Sorry, but to create your cruise package you'll need to speak to our Disney Experts.

10 Do’s and Don’ts When Booking a Disney Cruise

Are you going to book a Disney cruise ? Same! It’s actually my constant state of being. I’m always on the lookout for the next itinerary, next gap in my calendar, next good deal, whatever! I’m in. It doesn’t take much. When I am booking, there are always some things I keep in mind, so I’m sharing my list with you. Whether you are booking your first or fifteenth Disney cruise, these do’s and don’ts may help!

2. Don’t Give Up if Your Cruise is Sold Out – Some sailings do sell out quickly. When Hawaii for 2020 was announced, it sold out unbelievably quickly. But for anyone who kept watching, some staterooms opened up here and there, and will probably continue to as we get closer to the sailing. Holds drop, plans change, so keep watching. If you are looking for a particular category or stateroom, same thing. Keep watching. If you’re looking for concierge, DCL will help you out and put you on a waitlist. FYI, I’ve had a lot of good luck with concierge waitlists.  They’ve come through more often than not for me!

4. Do Sleep With Friends – Okay, that sounds bad, but this is a pro tip, so let’s walk through this. If you are booking more than one stateroom, how you divide your group into those staterooms during the reservation process may matter. First up, when reserving the stateroom, put the oldest guests in the first and second slots in the room. Ages do not matter for the first and second slot pricing.  Ages do matter in the additional slots. Younger children cost (slightly) less than older children. If you have a single traveler, put someone else in their stateroom when making the reservation even if they won’t actually sleep there once the cruise begins. That single traveler is going to pay for double occupancy on that room, so there’s no reason to pay for a third or fourth guest in your room if they would essentially be free in Grandmom’s room! Similarly, if a family of five is traveling with a family of three, and the family of three is agreeable, put a child in with them when making the reservations and get two rooms of four. That will open up more stateroom category options and may also save you money!  Finally, if you have some friends that have sailed before, you may want to mix them into other staterooms to spread out their Castaway Club benefits.

6. Do Book Everyone in the Room Who May Go – When you’re booking, book all the kids, all the grandparents, all the friends, whoever may go! You can change the names later if you need. As long as you are outside of the final payment date (and not booking concierge) you can also take people out of a stateroom easily. What you may not be able to do is add someone into a stateroom. Once a category reaches a certain capacity level, you cannot add someone into a stateroom, even if there is a space for them to sleep. Even if there is space to add someone, they’re going to pay the current price for that spot. That means if the sailing price has gone up, they’re paying more than they would have if you had added them when you booked. Nobody wants that.

7. Do Get Insurance – Get the insurance!! The good news is that you may not have to get it at time of booking, or pay for it at time of booking. Pre-existing conditions require you to get insurance quickly after booking, but if you are not worried about pre-existing conditions, then you don’t have to be in a particular hurry.  If you decide to get insurance from DCL, you don’t have to pay for it until final payment, and you can add and remove it up until that point. I wrote a blog post on the ins and outs of trip insurance that may help!

9. Do Watch for Last-Minute Discounts – If you didn’t get in on early booking prices, watch for last-minute discounts like military rates, Florida resident rates, or IGT, OGT, and VGT rates . They do happen! They don’t usually happen until after penalty period starts, so if the cruise you are watching is pretty empty, it may be worth it to wait.  Florida resident discounts are the one discount that can be applied after final payment date with no cancellation penalty, so if you are hoping for that and will go even if it doesn’t come out, go ahead and book!

10. Do Find a Good Travel Agent – While this last tip seems self serving, it’s true. A good travel agent who understands DCL can be your best friend when you’re booking. Good ones already know all these tips, they can help you find the perfect stateroom, they’re in your corner if something goes wrong, they save you time, and some of them will even save you money in the form of onboard credits. Give them a try!

Do you have any Do’s and Don’ts to share?  Let us hear them!

Tammy Whiting  is the owner of  Storybook Destinations . Did you know Storybook Destinations offers a  complimentary subscription to TouringPlans  with qualified Disney and Universal bookings? Click  here for a no-obligation quote on your next vacation!

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Tammy Whiting

Tammy has been a lover of all things Disney for most of her life. There’s nowhere on this Earth she’d rather be than on a Disney cruise with her family. She’s a Space Force wife and proud mom of two wonderful children and one beautiful daughter-in-law . She fulfilled a lifelong dream in 2008 and became a travel agent specializing in Disney vacations. She now owns her own travel agency - Storybook Destinations. You can reach Tammy at [email protected].

6 thoughts on “ 10 Do’s and Don’ts When Booking a Disney Cruise ”

Thanks for sharing this nice article. I read it completely and get some interesting knowledge from this. @Cruisebay

Hi, I’m new here and this might be a silly question…..but, do you know when they will start accepting bookings for the newest cruise ship coming in 2021? I want to be along the first to book 🙂 Thanks!

Hi June! We don’t know yet! Based on previous years, we can guess when the regular itineraries for certain times of year will be released. The new ships, however, probably will be announced for booking all by themselves, so they are impossible to predict! If I had to guess, I’d expect the first one to be released for booking later this year. We will definitely post here as soon as we know!

I think this article does a disservice to those that don’t cruise often, and particular to those that haven’t cruised on Disney Cruise Line. It uses terms that are not defined anywhere in the article, and most probably would not be known to new DCL cruisers. For example, most newcomers have no idea what “opening day” is, and therefore, wouldn’t know when the most desirable day to book actually is. Also what is “main dining”? A newcomer would think that if they don’t get “main dining”, they won ‘t be able to eat in the main dining room(s) when I think the author is referring to early vs. late dining time in the main dining rooms. I wanted to point this out to help you communicate better.

Thanks for the feedback, Mary! Interestingly enough, my next post is directed at new cruisers. I’ll try to link any confusing terms. 🙂

Thanks…I figured out what you were implying but I have cruised twice on DCL and 8 times on other lines. Just wanted to help those scratching their heads…lol

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Can I make changes to my cruise reservation?

Cruises allow their passengers to make several changes to their reservations. Read on to learn more about such changes.

Book A Cruise

A cruise vacation is the ultimate chance to spend time with your loved ones. You may be able to book various onboard activities and reservations and enjoy amenities like spa treatments and excellent dining. While you book a specific cruise reservation or package for your trip , cruise lines allow guests to make certain changes and additions to their reservations. These changes may range from adding services to even changing the cruise dates. Fulfillment of these changes depends on the availability of alternate services and accommodations. You can make your changes in a hassle-free way as the cruise line provides complete guidance to make your experience a memorable one. 

Some of the changes and upgrades that you can make to your cruise reservation: 

1. changing a name:.

A name change in your cruise reservation signifies the cancellation of one guest’s reservation and the addition of a new guest. A ‘name change fee’ can be levied, depending upon your cruise line. At least one of the original names of guests must remain on the reservation, as changing every guest’s name is not allowed. This will result in a cancellation penalty from the cruise line.

2. Changing dates:

Changing the dates of your cruise depends upon the cruise line’s availability. The cruise line may help you select the possible dates you can change to. Changing cruise dates may require additional charges, especially if changing to a more expensive time of the year. 

3. Upgrading your accommodation:

You can upgrade or change your selected accommodations, usually for a fee.  This depends upon availability, the type of fare you have booked, and other factors.

4. Canceling your reservation:

Cruise lines offer a grace period for cancellation of reservations. Each cruise line’s rules and policies can differ based on cancellation penalties and refunds. You can easily cancel your cruise reservations by looking up your cruise details or contacting the respective cruise line. 

5. Adding guests:

You can add guests to your cruise reservation by contacting your travel agent. Depending on the availability of the cruise, more people can be added to your stateroom. You can also upgrade your cabin or suite to accommodate the number of guests. This is all dependent upon availability and the fare you have booked.

Things before making changes to your cruise reservation: 

1. additional charges:.

Additional charges may apply to your cruise reservation if you’re upgrading to better services and staterooms or making any changes to your reservation. 

2. Refunds:

You may be subjected to refunds if you cancel your reservation or change cruise dates. The changes may include partial to full refunds. These will be processed directly to the credit cards used for payments. Look out for refundable and non-refundable deposit fares, as the cruise line may hold an amount of penalty as a cancellation charge. 

Also Read:  What is the cancellation policy for a cruise?

Conclusion:

Renowned cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises , Royal Caribbean , and Carnival Cruises offer flexible options for making changes to your existing cruise reservation. On a cruise, you can change the names, dates, accommodations, and medical requirements. Before booking a cruise , be sure to go through the policies and guidelines of a particular cruise line to learn about the options available to you. The guidelines for making changes to your reservation differ according to the cruise lines. For the latest updates and to book a suitable cruise for your vacation, visit cruisebooking.com .

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• Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Name Change Policy

Planning a Disney Cruise vacation can be an exciting experience, but sometimes unexpected circumstances may arise that require a name change on your reservation. Understanding Disney Cruise Line’s name change policy is crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free sailing. In this guide, we will provide you with all the essential information you need to know about Disney Cruise name change policy, including the necessary steps, fees involved, and important considerations.

Key Points of Disney Cruise Name Change Policy:

Understanding Disney Cruise Line’s name change policy can help you navigate through any unexpected situations that may arise. It is important to familiarize yourself with the necessary steps, fees, and requirements to ensure a seamless vacation experience. For further details and official information, please refer to Disney Cruise Line’s official website here .

Can I change the person on my Disney Cruise reservation?

Changing the name on your Disney Cruise reservation is possible, but it comes with certain conditions. According to Disney Cruise Line’s name change policy, you are allowed to transfer your reservation to another person as long as it meets the eligibility criteria. These criteria include the original guest remaining on the reservation, a fee being paid for the name change, and the new guest meeting all the requirements and restrictions of the cruise. It’s important to note that not all reservations are eligible for name changes, such as those made through certain third-party travel agencies. For more detailed information and to understand the process thoroughly, you can visit Disney Cruise Line’s official website at [insert link to Disney Cruise Line’s name change policy].

How much does it cost to change your name on a Disney Cruise?

Changing your name on a Disney Cruise is a straightforward process that comes with a fee. The cost to change your name on a Disney Cruise varies depending on the specific circumstances. If the change is requested within the allowed time frame of 75 days prior to sailing, there is a fee of $50 per name change. However, if the request is made after the deadline, a fee of $100 per name change applies. It is important to note that name changes are subject to availability and certain restrictions may apply. For more information on Disney Cruise name change policies, you can visit their official website [https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/guest-services/name-changes/].

Can you change a passenger after booking cruise?

Disney Cruise Line has a name change policy in place that allows passengers to change the name of a booked cruise. However, this policy comes with some restrictions and fees. To change a passenger’s name, the request must be made at least 3 days prior to the sailing date. Additionally, the name change is only allowed for the same stateroom and itinerary. It is important to note that changing a passenger’s name may incur a fee, which varies depending on the time of the request and the type of reservation. For more detailed information on Disney Cruise Line’s name change policy, you can visit their official website at [https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/guest-services/name-changes/](https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/guest-services/name-changes/).

Change name on cruise ticket royal caribbean

If you’re considering a name change on your Royal Caribbean cruise ticket, it’s important to understand the cruise line’s policy and procedures. Royal Caribbean allows name changes in certain circumstances, such as marriage or legal name change. However, there are specific guidelines and deadlines to follow. To make a name change, you’ll need to contact Royal Caribbean’s customer service and provide the necessary documentation. It’s crucial to be aware of any potential fees or restrictions that may apply. For more detailed information on Royal Caribbean’s name change policy, you can refer to their official website at [insert reliable source link].

Disney cruise waiting list

Disney Cruise Line has a waiting list policy in place for passengers who wish to change the name on their cruise reservation. This allows guests to secure their desired cruise and stateroom category while they await the completion of the name change process. The waiting list is available for both online and phone bookings, and guests can request to be added by contacting Disney Cruise Line directly. Once the name change is processed, guests on the waiting list will have the opportunity to finalize their reservation and make any necessary payments. It’s important to note that being on the waiting list does not guarantee a name change, as it is subject to availability and Disney Cruise Line’s discretion. For more information on Disney Cruise Line’s name change policy and waiting list, visit the official Disney Cruise Line website.

In summary, the Disney Cruise Line has a well-defined name change policy in place that allows guests to make necessary modifications to their reservations. Understanding this policy is crucial, as it ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience for those who need to change their names on Disney Cruise bookings.

Key points to remember include:

1. Disney Cruise Line’s name change policy allows guests to make changes to their reservation up until a certain deadline, typically around 75 days prior to the sail date. It is important to note that this policy may vary depending on the specific cruise package or booking.

2. Name changes can be made for various reasons, such as a legal name change, correcting a misspelling, or updating personal information. Disney Cruise Line understands that circumstances may arise that necessitate a name change and strives to accommodate guests’ needs.

3. To initiate a name change, guests must contact Disney Cruise Line’s customer service or their authorized travel agent. It is recommended to have all relevant booking information readily available, including the reservation number, sailing date, and the name of the guest whose name needs to be changed.

4. It is essential to have proper documentation to support the name change request. This may include a marriage certificate, court order, or any other relevant legal documents. Providing accurate and valid documentation will help expedite the name change process.

5. Any name changes made after the specified deadline may be subject to additional fees or penalties. Therefore, it is advisable to make any necessary changes as early as possible to avoid any potential complications or financial implications.

6. Disney Cruise Line reserves the right to deny a name change request if it is deemed fraudulent or violates their policy. It is crucial to provide truthful and accurate information to ensure a smooth process.

7. It is worth noting that the name change policy may differ for specific cruise packages or promotional offers. Guests are encouraged to review the terms and conditions of their booking or consult a Disney Cruise Line representative for any specific guidelines or restrictions.

For further information and to stay up-to-date with the latest policies and procedures, it is recommended to visit the official Disney Cruise Line website [1]. The website provides comprehensive information on name change policies, contact details, and frequently asked questions to address any concerns or queries guests may have.

Additionally, reputable travel websites such as Cruise Critic [2] and Travel + Leisure [3] offer valuable insights and articles on Disney Cruise Line’s name change policy. These sources provide a broader perspective and offer expert advice for guests looking for more in-depth information.

By understanding and adhering to Disney Cruise Line’s name change policy, guests can ensure a seamless and stress-free experience when modifying their reservations. Whether it’s correcting a misspelled name or updating personal information, Disney Cruise Line aims to accommodate guests’ needs and provides a straightforward process to facilitate these changes.

[1] Official Disney Cruise Line website: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/ [2] Cruise Critic article on Disney Cruise Line name change policy: https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles.cfm?ID=2304 [3] Travel + Leisure article on Disney Cruise Line name change policy: https://www.travelandleisure.

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How can I make changes to my cruise?

General changes.

• Name or title correction
• Change to dining time or table size request
• Add/Change past passenger number
• Change cabin number (same category only)
• Change bedding request
• Add/Change special request (birthday, anniversary, honeymoon)
• Add/Change medical request
• Add/Remove cruise line ground transfers
• Add/Remove cruise line insurance
• Add/Remove cruise line gratuities

Additional changes

• Cabin upgrades or category changes
• Ship or sail date
• New promotional offer (restrictions may apply)
• Adding or removing guests
• Applying a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) or cruise line credit voucher
• Date of birth change

Please note, fulfillment of changes or requests is subject to cruise line availability. Costco Travel cannot guarantee that all changes will be allowed by the cruise line. 

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• How do I make changes to my existing vacation package?

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• Say WHAT? You Can Get FREE Souvenirs on Your Disney Cruise?!

By Jordan-Paige Sudduth Leave a Comment

We have fantastic news for those of you who have been on a Disney Cruise before, and are planning to sail on the Disney Treasure !

After you’ve sailed with Disney Cruise Line one time, you become what’s called a Castaway Club Member. There are 4 tiers to this loyalty program, starting with Silver (1 sailing), followed by Gold (5 sailings), Platinum (10 sailings), and Pearl (25 sailings). And we just found out that Castaway Club members of all levels will get special gifts when sailing on the Disney Treasure!

Disney recently sent an email to some Castaway Club members and released a video online teasing some of these new free gifts members will get if they sail during the new ship’s inaugural season.

From the small peek we’re given, it looks like members could be given a Disney Treasure shirt, stickers, pouch, lunchbox, and potentially something that looks like an even larger bag !

Now, we don’t know yet if all members will get all of these goodies, or if it will depend on your status , but we’ll be sure to let you know when we find out!

More Disney Cruise Line News!

• Did You Know About This EXCLUSIVE Disney Cruise Line Dining Experience?
• Disney CEO Bob Iger Predicts Theme Park Attendance Will Go DOWN — Here’s Why
• We Think We Know Where a LOT of Disney’s $60 Billion Investment Is Going
• DFB Video: The RIGHT Way to Plan a Disney Cruise in 2024

Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney Cruise Line news!

Check out this sneak peek of 6 exclusive souvenirs coming to the Disney Treasure!

What you need to know about disney cruise line, learn all about disney cruise line and its various ships, explore disney’s mega cruise ship – the wish, a full list of what you can’t bring on a disney cruise, these are the best times to book your disney cruise, the best ways to save space in your tiny cruise cabin, 10 things you need on your next cruise (that you won’t think to pack), what it’s like to live on a cruise ship for 6 months, join the dfb newsletter to get all the latest disney news delivered right to your inbox click here to subscribe.

Which of these souvenirs would you want the most? Tell us in the comments!

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All About The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App

I f you are planning to go on a Disney Cruise , you’ll want to download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. This free Disney cruise app has always been extremely useful when you are onboard the ship because you’ll be able to get information about activities on the ship as well as communicate with your family members. Now, however, it’s essential more than ever.

If you don’t have to pay for WiFi on the ship, and if you don’t want to use roaming cellular data, it can be a great way to communicate with friends and family on board. Here’s what you need to know about the Disney Cruise Line app.

Disclosure: I have been on one complimentary media cruise, two cruises as part of Social Media Moms, and countless cruises at my own cost. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us. 

Check cruise prices here .

The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App

Getting started: download the app before you go.

Make sure you download the free Disney Navigator app from the app store before you head out on your Disney Cruise. Do it while you are on cellular data or WiFi , and make sure all of your family members have it as well. Don’t wait until you are onboard the ship.

If you already have the app, make sure you are using the latest version. It is regularly updated, so you’ll need to check if you don’t have automatic updates. It’s also a good idea to log in and make sure you know what your ID and password are.

Using the App Before You Go

Originally, the app wasn’t very useful before you got on the ship. Now, however, there are several things that you can do right on the Disney Cruise Line app.

You’ll be able to log into your account, find your sailing, and make modifications and changes to your plans. You’ll find things like spa and fitness appointments, beverage seminars and other onboard activities, Port Adventures, and reservations for adult dining at Remy and Palo . You’ll also be able to see your current plans.

The app offers the same openings that you’ll find on the website, so it’s still a good idea to make those reservations as soon as possible within your booking window. Many of these experiences are very popular with limited openings. If you have multiple sailings booked on the Disney Cruise Line, you’ll be able to choose your specific sailing from the list.

When You Are on the Ship

Go to the onboard chat feature section and add each of your friends or family members. Those in the same stateroom will show up easily, but you’ll need to get a code from others to add them. If you have friends or family in other staterooms, you’ll want to set this up as soon as you can – while you are still on WiFi.

If you have kids in your stateroom, they can use the onboard chat feature but will need your permission. Again, this is something that you may want to do while you are still on cellular data, if possible.

Make sure that you understand what coverage your phone will have before you leave. We turn off all cellular services to avoid charges – but check with your carrier to know exactly what you should do.

When you are on the ship, you can turn on airplane mode, and then enable WiFi, and choose the DCL-Guest network. Even if you don’t purchase the Disney Cruise WiFi, you can still use the app.

In addition, guests can use iMessage on the ship to communicate with other iMessage users (even those off the ship). To do that, you’ll need to connect to the DCL-Guest network but won’t have to pay. This has been extremely useful in communicating with family back home.

If your entire family (on the ship) has iMessage, this can be the best way to communicate on a cruise. Otherwise, the chat option in the app works well.

Get Schedule Information

In past years, a Disney Cruise Line Personal Navigator with full schedule information was provided in your stateroom each evening. Unfortunately, this paper Disney Cruise Navigator is no longer offered at the port or in your room.

You can use the app to find everything you need. While I liked glancing at the paper Navigator, I find the Disney Cruise Line app more helpful since you can sort and view it more easily. You can search by category and sort.

In addition, you can “heart” a specific event, and get a reminder for it, right on your phone. With the app, you can also see the ship’s schedule for every day of your cruise, making it easier to plan.

If you are interested in an event, but the timing isn’t perfect, you can use the app to see if the event is offered later in your cruise.  You can also use the app to get the operating hours of the shops and services on the ship.

Sometimes things do change with the schedule. For instance, one day, on our Castaway Cay day, there was a downpour and we had to leave the island. They ended up adding some additional activities on the ship, and having the app was a great way to stay informed of the changes. 

The app also shows a schedule of the various ports of call during your cruise so you can stay organized during your trip. 

Communicate With Family Members

In the past, it could be difficult to communicate with your family members who were at different places on the ship. Because of the ease of using the app, the wave phones have been removed from the staterooms and everything is now done on the app.

I find that it’s especially helpful with tweens and teens, who always seem to be heading in different directions. My kids especially love the Disney emojis that you can use on the app. My son just kept sending messages filled with various emojis.

It’s important to note, however, that once you are back in port, the app resets. As a result, you won’t be able to see your old messages. If you meet new friends on the ship, you’ll want to get their information before the cruise is over.

You can use the app to see menus for all of the restaurants you’ll be dining at during your cruise. We like looking at future menus, so we can plan out what we’ll be eating.

Find Your Way

The app shows maps and deck plans to help you find your way on your cruise. There are plenty of maps located near the elevators on the ship, but it’s nice to have everything right on the app.

Laundry on the Disney Cruise Line app

While I typically don’t love doing chores on my family vacation, sometimes I do like doing laundry on the Disney Cruise Line. That way, I don’t have to bring quite as much with me, since I can wash clothes and re-wear them during my trip. But when I take away vacation time to do laundry, I don’t want to hover over the machine.

Luckily, the Disney Cruise Line app will alert you when your washer and dryer have finished running. That way, you can go about your vacation, and just pop into the laundry room when you need to.

Check Your Account Balance

No one wants to be surprised with a big bill at the end of their trip. You can look up your account balance and charges at any time on the app. That way, you’ll know how things are adding up without having to make a trip to guest services. 

Have you used the Disney Cruise Line app?

When booking a Disney Cruise , I recommend booking with Get Away Today. Plus, when you mention Family Travel Magazine, you get an extra $25 onboard credit! Give their agents a call at 877-510-2929.

Read our guides to the Disney Dream , the Disney Fantasy , the Disney Magic , and the Disney Wonder .

The post All About The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

Everything to Know Before You Drop Into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disney World

by Lori Besig , Senior Manager, Communications, Walt Disney World Resort

Let the good times roll, Tiana has sent the invites out for her big Mardi Gras celebration! While the princess and her fun-loving friend Louis are finishing up details on the party down in the bayou, you are probably wondering what to wear, what to bring, and how you should prepare for an exhilarating musical adventure that crescendos with a 50-foot drop right before the grandest celebration this side of the Mississippi.  

Well, don’t fret because I’ve got a few helpful things you need to know before riding Tiana’s Bayou Adventure when the attraction opens on June 28. 

Tips on How to Ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

1. drop on in -to virtual queue….

When Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens on June 28, it will use a virtual queue. Guests can request to join the virtual queue via the My Disney Experience app at one of two times: 7 a.m. or 1 p.m. While a standby queue will not be available during the attraction’s initial opening days, we expect to open a standby queue soon after the attraction’s opening.  

Visit disneyworld.com/virtualqueue for more details about how virtual queues at Disney World work and what you need to know before visiting Magic Kingdom .  

2. … or use Disney Genie+ service.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will also be included as a Lightning Lane entrance in Disney Genie+ service*. Purchasing this service on the My Disney Experience app helps you get to some of your favorite attractions faster through Lightning Lane entrances and includes digital downloads of select Disney PhotoPass attraction photos taken in the park on the day of your purchase at no additional charge. Guests may check the app on the day of their visit for pricing and availability. 

Visit disneyworld.com/lightninglane for more details.    

3. Smile for the camera!

No party is complete without pictures. As you make your way through the bayou to get to Tiana’s party, Disney PhotoPass Service will serve up a special photo when you’re almost there.   

Want to download this attraction photo and your other magical moments? Try Memory Maker – with this all-inclusive photo package, you can download all of your Disney PhotoPass photos taken during your vacation. 

Learn more about the other photos Disney PhotoPass Service captures of you at 175+ locations at disneyworld.com/memorymaker .**  

4. Be prepared to get wet!

At some point when you drop on in to Tiana’s party, there’s a strong chance riders may get wet. While most guests will appreciate the refreshing cool down, others may want to bring their rain gear.  

Didn’t bring any? No worries. There are plenty of places to find ponchos in Magic Kingdom. 

Celebrate Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opening across Magic Kingdom 

5. shop new attraction merchandise.

After riding the new attraction, we can bet you’ll want to take a piece of the bayou home with you.  

Starting June 28, you can find the collections for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and “The Princess and the Frog”-inspired merchandise at the Emporium at Magic Kingdom. And, shortly after the attraction debuts, the merchandise will hop over to Critter Co-Op in Frontierland.   

Additional details about the various merchandise collections will be shared on the Disney Parks Blog soon.   

6. Try some of Tiana’s Famous Beignets!

A trip to the bayou is never complete without some good eats and sweet treats. Among the food and beverage offerings we look forward to sharing soon will be Tiana’s Famous Beignets, of course.  

Beginning opening day, Golden Oak Outpost and The Friar’s Nook will be serving up these light, sweet and fluffy beignets drizzled with honey and powdered sugar. These will be available for a limited time only so let the good times roll. Check back to Disney Parks Blog and @DisneyEats for all the delicious details celebrating Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. 

7. Hungry for more about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure?

If you’re craving more details about the fun attraction, visit the Everything Tiana page on the Disney Parks Blog: 

• Learn more about the New Orleans artisans who shared their talents to bring authenticity to life 
• Meet the award-winning musicians helping guests boogie on down the bayou 
• See the adorable critters you’ll meet throughout the attraction.  

*Attractions with Lightning Lane entrances that are Disney Genie+ are limited in availability, subject to change or closure, may vary by date, are not guaranteed and may not be available at all on the date of visit or at the time you make a selection.  

**Disney PhotoPass Service and Memory Maker are subject to the applicable terms and policies . Includes photos taken during the applicable Memory Maker Window as defined in such terms (generally, photos taken (i) within one day for Memory Maker One Day or (ii) within 30 days from the date of first activation for standard Memory Maker). If Memory Maker is purchased at the advance purchase price, any photos taken within 3 days of the date Memory Maker is purchased are not included and must be purchased separately. A MagicBand, or an eligible mobile device with Bluetooth technology enabled for the My Disney Experience app, is required to receive certain attraction photos and other digital content. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos in your account will expire pursuant to the expiration policy . Downloads are restricted to personal use only. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Valid theme park admission and park reservations are required for certain photo locations.  

Topics: Tiana

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Fireworks at Magic Kingdom To Cease Normal Operations After Pointed Development

in Walt Disney World

The normality of fireworks inside Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort is about to change significantly.

The Happily Ever After fireworks show at Magic Kingdom, part of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, is a dazzling spectacle that encapsulates the enchanting world of Disney storytelling. As the sky above Cinderella Castle ignites with vibrant colors and lights, guests are treated to a montage of animated projections, laser effects, and breathtaking pyrotechnics, all synchronized to a medley of iconic Disney songs.

The show, which debuted in 2017, is particularly beloved for its emotional resonance and its ability to connect guests to the heartwarming tales of Disney characters overcoming obstacles and achieving their dreams.

However, what we’ve come to know as “normal” for the beloved fireworks show is about to cease in a notable way as Walt Disney World Resort has announced a new development.

Beginning today and through the foreseeable future, Happily Ever After will no longer operate in its normal-tiered time. The beloved nighttime fireworks show will now begin at 9:20 p.m. each night. Though most of the time throughout the year, Happily Ever After takes place between 8:00 p.m. and no later than 9:00 p.m. at Magic Kingdom, during the summer, this has to change.

The projections on Cinderella Castle are not easily seen in daylight, and this leaves Disney with no choice but to operate outside of its normal time, particularly in June, July, and August. The show may continue to see its performance time pushed back to ensure that daylight has passed.

Though Happily Ever After will not be operating in its normal time window , the show remains unchanged. Each evening, as the first notes of the show’s theme song swell, an air of excitement and anticipation envelops the crowd.

Narrated sequences invite the audience on a journey through a series of magical moments from Disney classics like The Lion King (1994), Moana (2016), and Frozen (2013). The centerpiece of the experience is Cinderella Castle, which transforms through state-of-the-art projection technology into scenes from these beloved films.

For the rest of May and June, the show will remain at 9:20 p.m. each night. Disney has not updated its calendar past July 11, which also shows the performance at 9:20 p.m. Keep in mind that Disney will not operate Happily Ever After on July 4 , as its annual Fourth of July fireworks spectacular takes place that night.

In addition to Happily Ever After, you can enjoy several other notable nighttime spectaculars across Walt Disney World Resort. Luminous The Symphony of Us takes place nightly at EPCOT , and both Fantasmic! and Wonderful World of Animation take place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios . Though there was a time when Disney’s Animal Kingdom operated projections on the Tree of Life, the Disney park has been closing before sunset since reopening during the pandemic.

There are numerous other attractions to experience at Magic Kingdom, specifically. Space Mountain, located in Tomorrowland, offers an exhilarating indoor roller coaster ride through the dark reaches of outer space. Meanwhile, Frontierland boasts Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, a high-speed train adventure through a haunted gold-mining town that provides excitement and spectacular views. Over in Fantasyland, Peter Pan’s Flight offers a magical journey from London to Neverland, charming visitors with its gentle flight and captivating scenes.

Each land within Magic Kingdom is designed to immerse Disney World guests in meticulously crafted themes. Adventureland captivates with its exotic ambiance, highlighted by rides like Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean, which take visitors on adventures through lush jungles and past swashbuckling pirates, respectively.

NEW: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure officially opens in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort on June 28. pic.twitter.com/PQIWuBUnJ3 — Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) May 12, 2024

Notably, a significant transformation is underway in Frontierland, where Splash Mountain is being reimagined into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, set to open on June 28, 2024. This new attraction will transport guests into the world of Princess Tiana from The Princess and the Frog (2009), promising a vibrant celebration of the culture and music of Louisiana.

What do you think of this change to Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!

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17 Royal Caribbean Cruise Tips for First-time Passengers, According to Experts

Here's how to maximize your Royal Caribbean cruise, whether it's your first or fifth time on board.

Elizabeth Heath is a writer and editor living on a hill in Umbria, from where she writes about travel in Italy, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean Cruise

If you’re shopping for a traditional cruise, chances are you’ll consider Royal Caribbean. The household name among big-ship cruise lines is the second-largest carrier on the seas (after Carnival). It has 27 ships in its fleet, including the new Icon of the Seas , the world’s largest cruise ship, with room for 7,600 passengers. Another four mega-ships are under construction. Even Royal Caribbean’s smallest vessels hold more than 2,400 passengers, so by any definition, they’re big.

If you’ve never sailed with Royal Caribbean, it can take a while to learn the ropes — nautical reference intended. And since your vacation time is precious, we asked some cruise line experts how to make the most of your first voyage. Here are their tips and tricks for first-time Royal Caribbean guests.

Don't wait to book.

It’s a piece of advice that goes for most cruise lines. Matt Hochberg of Royal Caribbean Blog , a fan and information site that's not affiliated with the company, says to book your Royal Caribbean cruise “as early as possible — as in now. It’s not like airfare where you can wait on the chance that prices will go down. Cruise prices stay where they are and only go up, and right now, demand is as high as it’s ever been. Your best bet is to book as early as you can, like 12 to 24 months out, to lock in the lowest price.”

Make show reservations in advance, too.

“Would you show up in New York for a theater weekend and simply cross your fingers and hope you get tickets to the shows you want?” asks Rob Clabbers, a Travel + Leisure A-List advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel . The answer is probably not, so use the "Manage My Cruise" feature on the Royal Caribbean website and book the shows you don’t want to miss. “You’re more likely to get the reservations you want and you’ll avoid having to scramble for seats or stand in line on your first day on board,” he adds.

Study the ship layout before your cruise.

If you’re like me, the anticipation of a cruise is half the fun. Use the weeks and months before your sailing to study deck plans and hone in on your favorite amenities. The largest Royal Caribbean ships are like small cities — the Icon and Oasis class ships even have their own neighborhoods. If you already have your bearings before embarking, you’ll waste less time riding the wrong elevator or wandering the wrong deck when trying to get to your destination — or back to your stateroom.

Get a jump on online check-in.

As soon as you book, access the "Manage My Cruise" portal on the Royal Caribbean website (the Royal Caribbean app has some of the same features). Then, as soon as online check-in opens, get right on it so you can secure the earliest possible window. “It makes the cruise terminal experience way faster,” says Hochberg. “About 30 days in advance, they’ll give you a check-in window. Arrive right around that time and you’ll breeze through — you don’t even stop moving.”

Opt for a drinks package.

You won’t go thirsty on a Royal Caribbean cruise, but free drinks are limited to standard coffee and tea, tap water, hot chocolate, milk, and a few other basics. Everything else costs extra — often a lot extra. “Even if you don’t drink alcohol, it may be worth checking out the options in advance, if you’re into premium coffees, sodas, juices, or bottled waters," says Clabbers. “Royal Caribbean occasionally offers promotions on the ‘Manage My Cruise’ [portal] that may save you money on certain beverage packages.”

Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on.

“Royal Caribbean ships have so many great pools and water features,” says Hochberg. And they get really crowded. Get ahead of the other passengers by packing a swimsuit in your daypack or carry-on. You can enjoy the pools, water parks, or the popular FlowRider surf simulator while you wait — often several hours — to access your cabin. “Embarkation day is one of the best times to go to the pools,” Hochberg adds. If you’re traveling with kids, you'll be glad you stashed those suits in your bag.

Splurge on a suite.

“Royal Caribbean ships can feel large and busy, so maybe you want to upgrade to a suite,” says Clabbers. Most suites start at around 300 square feet and go up from there — both in dimensions and price. You can expect to pay about twice as much for a suite, but the additional space may offer a welcome break from all the hubbub on board. Clabbers adds, “Depending on the category and ship you choose, you may enjoy suite-only restaurants and lounges, VIP treatment and embarkation, and even Royal Genie butler service.”

Asses how much drinking you’ll really do.

Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package — the only one that includes alcohol — follows a dynamic pricing model between $56 and $105 per day, per person, with prices varying depending on the ship, itinerary, and other factors. Alcoholic and soft drinks are expensive on board, but you still have to indulge a lot to make the package worth the investment. If you’re not sure how much you'll drink (and don’t want to feel obligated to do so simply because you’ve paid for a package), consider going a la carte for the first few days of your cruise. You can always add a drinks package later, as long as you still have at least four days left on your sailing.

Find your place in the sun.

If you want a poolside lounge chair, you'll have to arrive by 10 a.m. at the latest on most Royal Caribbean ships, according to Hochberg. “People who sleep in and roll up at noon are not getting a chair by the pool,” he says. That said, the ships do have plenty of outdoor space, even if it’s not right by a pool. “If you just want to be outside, there are other chairs. Walk to the front or back of the ship. The further away you are from the pool, the more chairs you’ll find,” he adds, noting the promenade deck on any Royal Caribbean ship is always a great spot to read.

Consider a balcony cabin.

Like most cruise lines, Royal Caribbean is adding more balcony cabins and suites on its ships, and that’s, of course, due to customer demand. “Balconies are the most popular option,” says Hochberg. Though they cost more than an interior or non-balcony room, they’re still reasonably priced compared to suites. Hochberg adds, “They offer more space and fresh air, and if you do get seasick, the view and fresh air help.”

Choose an older ship.

If your vacation is more about the destination than the journey, you should consider an older, smaller Royal Caribbean ship, especially given the demand for their newer Oasis and Icon vessels. Radiance and Vision classes are among the oldest and smallest in the fleet, but still offer plenty of big-ship amenities without the “city at sea” feel. Hochberg calls these ships “much more manageable,” to the point that you probably don’t even need to make show or specialty dining reservations in advance — though you might still want to book once you’re on board.

Look for no-kid zones.

Royal Caribbean is a family-friendly cruise line — there are a slew of facilities and programs made just for kids. But if you prefer a more adult experience, Royal Caribbean offers options. “Certain areas are adults-only, such as the casino and nightclubs,” says Hochberg. While bars and lounges technically allow children to enter, he says it’s rare to see kids in these areas in the evening. Later dinner seatings also mean fewer young kids. Almost every ship in the fleet offers the Solarium, an adults-only section with a pool and whirlpool, a sundeck, and a bar. On the brand’s private Caribbean island playground, Perfect Day at CocoCay , Hideaway Beach is the adults-only pool and beach, though entrance is for a fee. Hochberg also says that “on longer sailings — those past seven nights — the amount of kids drops precipitously.”

If you can’t snag a show reservation, try walking in.

Because booked passengers scoop up show reservations as soon as they’re offered online, you may not get your first choice when it comes to the many show offerings, which include ice-skating performances, aqua theater, and Broadway-quality productions. But don’t give up, says Hochberg. “Show up at least 30 minutes before the show, even if it's sold out,” he says. “You’ll almost certainly be able to get in, as people blow off their [advance] reservations.”

Cost out The Key program.

Clabbers says Royal Caribbean cruisers should look into The Key program , the paid upgrade that’s akin to the Genie+ service at Disney theme parks. “It provides priority boarding access, a welcome lunch, high-speed internet access, fast lane access to onboard activities, private time at the FlowRider surf simulator, dedicated theater seats at shows, and other niceties.” Prices fluctuate, though, so before you purchase, compare the cost of The Key versus that of Royal Caribbean’s Voom Surf & Stream internet package. If there’s not much difference in cost (remember, it’s per user, per day), The Key benefits are worth springing on. However, if there’s a big price difference — or you want to disconnect during your cruise — you can skip The Key.

Look into third-party excursions.

Shore excursions must also be reserved in advance, and depending on when you book, you might not get your first choice of activity or time slot. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay on board or near the port all day. “Of course, Royal Caribbean offers shore excursions wherever they go,” says Clabbers. “But if you like more options and potentially smaller groups or lower fares, take a look at excursions offered by third-party providers.” Clabbers likes Shore Excursions Group and Project Expedition . “If you prefer private [excursions], Context Travel offers cultural and historical tours and activities in cities around the world.”

BYOB — to a point.

Perhaps you don’t want to buy a beverage package, but you’d like to have a glass of wine or two during your cruise. Royal Caribbean lets you bring one 750-milliliter bottle of wine per cabin guest, per cruise, and for many light drinkers, that’s plenty. Don’t try and bring more than this, and don’t put it in your checked luggage — it will be confiscated and returned at the end of your journey, as will any alcohol you buy in ports of call. You can also bring up to 12 containers (bottles, cans, or cartons) with up to 17 ounces each of soft drinks per stateroom. If you bring your bottle of wine to a restaurant or other public area, you’ll be charged a corkage fee.

Skip the transatlantic cruise if you're a first-timer.

Transatlantic repositioning cruises are not ideal for first-time Royal Caribbean passengers, according to Hochberg. “Transatlantic cruises are like a fine wine. Once you’re more acclimated and know you like the shipboard experience, they offer great value priced per night,” he says. But you don’t want to get on board and find that you don’t like the brand, or worse, don’t like cruising. “They are long cruises with lots of sea days, and are very susceptible to the weather.”

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Staterooms – Frequently Asked Questions

I've booked my cruise. Can I still change or upgrade my stateroom?

Many staterooms can be changed or upgraded, although certain requirements and restrictions do apply. Because your cruise’s price is based on the specific travel details, any changes you make may affect the price.

If your stateroom is eligible to be modified, changing or upgrading your reservation is easy to do online. Just log in to the My Cruise Reservations page to access your reservation information and select “View Details” next to the cruise listing.

If you decide to change your stateroom, you’ll be able to upgrade or modify your category, type or location, subject to availability. If your reservation includes more than one stateroom, you will need to view or make changes to each room individually.

View stateroom features on the Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy , Disney Magic and Disney Wonder .

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