Ultimate Guide: 21 Time- and Money-Saving Tips for Your Disney Cruise
Planning a Disney Cruise? You’re in for an unforgettable vacation filled with magic at sea—but that doesn’t mean you have to overspend or waste precious time! Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a Castaway Club member, these 21 tips will help you make the most of your Disney Cruise Line experience without blowing your budget or losing a minute of fun.
Pro Planning Tip: We recommend using Jessica Lieb with ET Family Travel to book your Disney vacation!
1. Book Early (or Last Minute!)
Booking early gives you the best choice of staterooms and typically the lowest prices. On the flip side, last-minute deals can sometimes pop up—especially if you’re flexible with your dates and departure port.
2. Use a Travel Agent
A Disney-certified travel advisor (like Jessica Lieb with ET Family Travel!) can help you find the best deals, apply onboard credit, and make the whole process easier—at no extra cost to you.
3. Watch for Disney Cruise Line Promotions
Special offers pop up throughout the year. Look for discounts on select sailings, Florida resident rates, and military discounts on the official DCL website.
4. Choose an Off-Peak Sailing
Sailings during school breaks or holidays tend to be more expensive. Try mid-January, early May, or September for lower fares and fewer crowds.
5. Take Advantage of Onboard Credit
Many travel agencies or promotions offer onboard credit you can use toward excursions, spa treatments, or souvenirs.
6. Bring Your Own Wine or Beer
Disney allows guests 21+ to bring limited quantities of alcohol onboard. You can save a lot by enjoying your own drinks in your stateroom. Just remember alcoholic beverages must packed in your carry-on bag, NOT your checked suitcase.
7. Skip the Bottled Water
Bring a reusable water bottle and refill at the drink stations or your stateroom sink. Bottled water packages can add up quickly.
8. Do It Yourself: Pirate Night Costumes
Disney sells great costumes onboard, but bringing your own can save money—and you can go all out with fun accessories from home or Amazon.
9. Plan Your Excursions Wisely
Disney’s Port Adventures are convenient, but you can often save money by booking similar excursions independently—just make sure they guarantee return to the ship on time.
Our Favorite Cruise Excursion Sites
10. Use the Navigator App
The free Disney Cruise Line Navigator App shows daily activities, dining menus, character meet-and-greets, and more—helping you avoid unnecessary lines or missed fun.
11. Check In Online ASAP
Online check-in opens 30 days before sailing. Check in early to snag earlier port arrival times and popular onboard activities like the Princess Gathering or Olaf meet-and-greet.
12. Pack a Day Bag
Your luggage may not arrive at your stateroom until later in the afternoon. Pack swimsuits, sunscreen, and anything you’ll need for your first day in a carry-on bag.
13. Skip the Specialty Coffee—Sometimes
Coffee and tea are free at the beverage station. If you’re not picky, you can avoid the upcharge for specialty drinks at Cove Café.
14. Do Laundry Onboard
Disney ships have self-service laundry rooms. Doing a quick load mid-cruise can help you pack lighter (and avoid airline baggage fees!).
15. Avoid the Upsell at the Spa
The spa treatments are amazing, but staff often recommend pricey products after your session. Enjoy the service, but don’t feel obligated to buy extras.
16. Buy Disney Gift Cards at a Discount
Use Target RedCard or warehouse clubs like Sam’s Club or BJ’s to save 5% or more on Disney gift cards—which can be used toward your cruise or onboard purchases.
17. Bring Your Own Souvenirs
Pack a few Disney-themed surprises from home to gift your kids instead of buying everything in the gift shop. Bonus: less whining, more magic.
18. Join Fish Extenders (Optional but Fun!)
Participate in a Fish Extender gift exchange (organized in Facebook groups). It adds a layer of fun without spending much, and you can DIY your gifts.
19. Don’t Overpay for Internet
The onboard Wi-Fi can be expensive. Disconnect and enjoy your vacation—or download everything you need beforehand (movies, books, playlists).
20. Watch Shows Early
Skip the rush and get better seats by arriving 20–30 minutes early to Broadway-style shows. Or catch the later showing after dinner, when it’s usually less crowded.
21. Book a Placeholder
Before you disembark, book a “placeholder” for a future cruise and get up to 10% off that future sailing (some restrictions apply). You’ll have up to 24 months to use it!
With a little planning, you can save hundreds—and hours—on your Disney Cruise without sacrificing any magic. Have questions or want help planning your next sailing? Reach out to Jessica Lieb with ET Family Travel and let us help you cruise smarter.
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