Knowing where to look is half the battle. In addition to finding great deals, there are a few strategies you can employ to get the most mouse for your dollar.
Go Off-Season
A good rule of thumb is that discounts on Disney cruises are going to be harder to find during the summer, or over holiday periods when school isn't in session, you're more likely to find an attractive deal during the school year, when the line is under greater pressure to sell cabins. While the exact dates of the school year vary in different parts of the country, generally try to avoid June through August, as well as the last two weeks in December or the first week in January.
Book Last-Minute
One way around this is to book at the last minute. Excellent deals may be found between 21-75 days before the ship leaves, although your choice of destinations and cabins will probably be more limited.
Consult the Experts
The expansion and success of the Disney universe has spawned a number of websites dedicated to compiling information and deals:
- Mouse Savers includes a page devoted to cruise discounts, and it is updated frequently. WDW Info offers information on everything Disney, and has an up-to-date discounted cruise page. Dreams Unlimited offers comprehensive information on cruise deals including onboard credits and discounted amenities. Small World Vacations is an authorized Disney vacation planner. Everything Mouse is a guide to Walt Disney World and Disney Cruises and features daily deals on Disney cruises.
Onboard Booking Discount
Another way to save on a Disney Cruise is to take advantage of the company's onboard booking deal. The program is designed to reward passengers who are considering taking a future Disney Cruise. If you book an upcoming cruise while you are still on board the ship, you will receive a 10 percent discount and an onboard credit for the future cruise.
The onboard credit is usually $200 for a seven-night cruise and $100 for a three-night or four-night cruise. Note: a deposit is required at the time of booking. However, there is no penalty for making changes to the reservation. You can change the dates of the future cruise as you desire and still keep the onboard booking discount and onboard credit.