Our family has sailed on over 20 Disney Cruises, and every time we return, the most common question we hear is, “Is a Disney Cruise really worth the cost?”
Disney Cruise Line offers some of the most magical and luxurious experiences at sea, and while it can come with a higher price tag, we believe it’s well worth the investment. In this article, we’ll break down the cost of a Disney Cruise, what’s included, and if the higher price is really worth it.
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What’s Included in the Price of Your Disney Cruise
When you are looking at how much a Disney Cruise costs, I think one of the main factors you have to take in is how much “stuff” is included. Passengers on Disney Cruises can expect the full Disney experience throughout their trip. Let’s take a look at everything that is included!
Incredible Meals with a Splash of Disney Magic
Meals are included with your cruise fare. Each ship has rotational dining where you will visit one of three restaurants each night. Your waiter travels with you as you dine at each new location! This is a huge plus because each waiter we’ve had has been a blast. Many have done magic tricks for our kids and all have been some of the most caring, kind people we’ve ever met.
In addition, there is a buffet, and plenty of places to get food around the clock. There are several quick-service spots where my husband loves to grab a pizza, as well as 24-hour room service. You can even get Mickey Ice Cream bars delivered to the room!
Unlike most cruises, onboard a Disney Cruise you will enjoy endless soda for no additional fee. Tea and coffee are also included while aboard in addition to all-you-can-eat soft serve ice cream with all the toppings. The only food charges you will encounter are optional upgraded dining experiences and special desserts from the sweet shops.
Broadway Musicals & Blockbuster Movies
All ships have theaters with live Broadway musicals (yes, they are actually good shows) along with unlimited access to movie theaters that offer Disney’s & Marvel’s newest movies.
You might just find yourself viewing the latest Marvel thriller or a brand-new Pixar film. We saw Black Panther onboard right when it was released!
The Best Kid’s Club EVER!
If you asked my kids what they love most about a Disney Cruise, they’d instantly say the Kid’s Club. In our experience, Disney’s Kid’s Clubs truly stand out, blowing every other cruise line out of the water!
Normally, my kids aren’t big on kids’ clubs, but Disney’s is on another level. From the jaw-dropping themed rooms to the incredible staff, it’s an experience unlike any other. No other cruise line even comes close to the magic and care Disney puts into their kids’ spaces.
Character Experiences
There is no other ship at sea that offers the character experiences Disney Cruise offers. You may find yourself casually strolling by Captain Hook or Peter Pan. Characters have several photo opportunities scheduled throughout the day, where you can get your picture taken with your favorite character.
Plus, in the kids club characters will come and visit and play with the kids. So, if your family loves Disney characters, there are plenty on board to interact with.
Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay
If you are sailing on a Disney Cruise to the Bahamas or the Caribbean, included in your fare, is a visit to Disney’s Private Island, Castaway Cay, or their new private destination, Lookout Cay. In these two amazing destinations you will find beautiful beaches, water slides, snorkeling and so much more. The best part is all the food is included!
For an extra cost, you can get a Castaway Cay Cabana. While expensive, they are truly amazing so this is one upgrade I would recommend looking into!
Extra Disney Cruise Costs to Keep in Mind
Gratuities
Gratuities run about $40 on a 3-night cruise per person, $54.00 per person for a 4-night cruise, and $94 for a 7-night cruise. 15% Gratuity is also added to any alcoholic purchases.
Shore Excursions & On Cruise Experiences
You definitely do not need to do a shore excursion at every port, but they are quite fun. I would estimate $100 per shore excursion you would like to do. Most times you are able to book shore excursions off the boat
Spa Services & Bibbidy Boppidi Boutique
If you are in the mood for a little R&R then head to the Senses Spa for a wide variety of services. In addition, you can also make your little one a princess with a visit to the Bippidi Boppidi Boutique. Our girls have always loved this boutique! They love picking out their favorite princess dress and getting the full royal treatment. While these services are extra, they are so worth it because it is truly magical seeing their excitement.
Alcohol and Premium Dining
Alcohol is not included in your fare, so if you are planning on taking in some cocktails, budget appropriately for these expenses. On the Disney Cruises Ships, you can pay a little extra to dine at restaurants like Palo or Remy, which offer top-notch cuisine. Palo is available on 4 Disney Cruise ships, while Remy is only available on the Dream and Fantasy. The Disney Wish also has 2 adult-exclusive restaurants.
My BEST TIPS to Save you Time & Money when Booking a Disney Cruise
Before we dive into the exact costs, I have to share my tips for saving time and money on a Disney Cruise!
Tip #1: The #1 thing to do when booking a Disney Cruise is to book early. 99% of the time prices go up as the ship fills up. So the earlier you book, the better deal you are going to get.
We went on a cruise a few summers back and paid a little over $4,100 for a verandah cabin on a 7-night cruise, our friends went to book last minute and had to pay $3,000 more for an inside cabin. So, put down the deposit early and then your final payment isn’t due until 120 days before the cruise.
Tip # 2: This one might surprise you but it is my best tip. DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT, book directly through the Disney Cruise site, you are wasting time and money! I know, it seems like you would get a better deal, right? But the fact of the matter is you do all the work and you pay the exact same price (if not more) versus if you went through a travel agent.
Some perks you will get when booking with a travel agent:
- You will get the same price, if not better (they know all the specials going on)
- Bonuses like Stateroom Credit = FREE MONEY! Stateroom Credit is money you can use for spending onboard like spa services, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, specialty dining & more.
- Travel Planners know the best staterooms, when you should check-in for your cruise, and what documents you will need.
- They will save you hours and hours of planning!
Our travel agency Best Day Ever Vacations, specializes in Disney travel. Learn more about our FREE travel planning services here.
Tip #3: Book in the offseason! If you want to save some serious cash, book your cruise in the off-season, basically any time kids are normally in school. You will find the Disney Cruise cost to be lower in September, October, Early November, January, & February.
How Much Will a Disney Cruise Cost in 2024 & 2025?
Like any vacation, depending on what you are looking for, the price can vary greatly for Disney Cruises. Below, you will find the average cost to book a Disney Cruise for a family of 4 for a few different itineraries.
This is the average pricing for inside, oceanview, and verandah cabins. We did not include the price breakdown for the concierge level as this option is a whole different ballgame.
4-Night Caribbean or Bahamian Cruise
For a family of four, a 4-night cruise typically ranges from $3,100 – $6,000.
This averages out to $212-$418 per person per day.
Pro Tip: 4-night cruises are often a better value because they sail during the weekdays
7-Night Caribbean or European Cruise
For a family of four, a 7-night Caribbean or European Cruise typically ranges from $5,300 – $10,000.
This averages out to $189-$397 per person per day.
The 7-night cruises in the Caribbean can be onboard the Magic, Fantasy & the Wonder. Personally, I would choose the Magic or the Fantasy when in the Caribbean as they have better waterslides.
7-Night Alaska Cruise
The inside cabins are much cheaper on Alaskan cruises and typically range from $6500-$8000. Verandah cabins can range from $8900 up to $17,000.
This averages out $232 to $602 per person per day.
The Alaska cruise prices vary much more dramatically by room class, as a Verandah is so sought after.
Need help booking your Disney Cruise? Contact our incredible travel agents at Best Day Ever Vacations! They are truly Disney Experts, and not only are our services FREE, but we will save you both time and money.
Have any questions about Disney Cruises or Disney Cruise Costs? Ask us in the comments OR feel free to message us on Instagram!
Frequently Asked Questions About Disney Cruise Costs
When is the cheapest time to sail on a Disney Cruise?
Typically January, February, Early March, September & October are the cheapest times to sail on a Disney Cruise.
Is the food free on Disney Cruise?
The food is included in your Disney Cruise cost with the exception of the two specialty restaurants – Palo & Remy as well as treats from Vanellope’s Sweet Shop. Alcohol and specialty drinks are not included in the cruise cost and are an extra charge
Is Disney Cruise worth the extra money?
It depends. If you love Disney, then yes. If you have kids ages 3-10, I would say it is worth it. Once you get into ages over 10, it really depends on how much you enjoy Disney.
Is their an adults only section on a Disney Cruise?
Disney Cruise Line offers adults-only sections on their ships, that include various bars and lounges, nightclubs, and movie theaters.
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Hi wanted to know details for a cruise, I have a family of 6.
We are considering a cruise this coming year and have just started getting information. We would have 2 seniors (grandparents), 3 girls ages 9 and 8 with their parents. What would be the best, most economic accommodations for a group like this? Thank you.
Hi Anne,
I am going to ask our friends over at Tink’s Magical Vacations to reach out to you and give you assistance. They know the ships better than anyone and will be able to find the best offer for you.
We are considering a Disney cruise in the last week of June, 2021. We have two senior grandparents, three adults and two teenagers. What would be the most economical package for us for a 7 day cruise.
Hi Yvonne,
We are not travel agents, but we do no some great ones over at Tink’s Magical Vacations. I forwarded your email over to the owner of Tink’s and she will be able to help you find the most economical package for your cruise. Let us know if you have any other questions.
Hello, my husband and I would like to surprise my family of 35 people by taking them on a Disney Cruise. We would like some information on the best way to go about booking this, along with costs. There are 24 adults and 11 kids. We would need 13 rooms. Thank you
Hi Jessica,
We are not travel agents, but we know some spectacular ones. I will get you in touch with Kristin over at Tink’s Magical Vacations. They book all of our Disney cruises and they are amazing. She should reach out to you shortly.
I an 71 yr old. Love Disney. Traveling solo.
Can cruise anytime in late 2021.
What you reccomend?
Hi Michael,
I am going to have someone from Tink’s Magical Vacations reach out to you. They are who we use when booking our Disney Cruise and will know the best options for 2021.
Want to plan in advance to take my daughter on a cruise for a high school graduation present. Which Disney cruise line is best for young adult children. We are a family of 5. And how far in advance can I start planning to make the trip more affordable?
How much is to for 2 people
How much is to for 6 people for DISNEY CRUISE