6 Barriers To Booking A Disney Cruise — And How To Overcome Them
If your dream vacation involves extraordinary destinations, plenty of sun, and loads of Disney magic, odds are a Disney cruise is at the top of your travel bucket list.
![](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/minnie-mickey-disney-cruise-line.jpeg)
![](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/minnie-mickey-disney-cruise-line.jpeg)
Photo: Disney
However, booking a Disney cruise is a BIG decision, and it’s only natural if you feel hesitant to commit.
Like any other vacation, you need to be absolutely sure that it’s the right fit for your family and that it’s worth the financial investment.
![Disney villains heroes cruise](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024-dcl-disney-cruise-line-disney-destiny-cruise-ship5.png)
![Disney villains heroes cruise](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024-dcl-disney-cruise-line-disney-destiny-cruise-ship5.png)
![Disney villains heroes cruise](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024-dcl-disney-cruise-line-disney-destiny-cruise-ship5.png)
Credit: Disney
If you’re on the fence about booking a Disney cruise, you may have concerns about costs, availability, or just the planning process in general.
Luckily, the following tips and tricks can help you overcome the most common barriers to booking a cruise.
![Disney Cruise deposit](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/2-5.jpg)
![Disney Cruise deposit](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/2-5.jpg)
Credit: Disney
Let us help you take the leap, and you’ll be sailing the seven seas in no time!
1. Cost
Whether you’re headed to the Disney Parks, globetrotting with Adventures by Disney, or setting sail with Disney Cruise Line, that special brand of Disney magic will usually set you back a pretty penny.
![save money disney fees , fee, money, parking, resort, hotel, guests](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Screen-Shot-2022-05-18-at-6.25.45-PM-e1708448899139.png)
![save money disney fees , fee, money, parking, resort, hotel, guests](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Screen-Shot-2022-05-18-at-6.25.45-PM-e1708448899139.png)
Photo: skillastics.com
It’s easy to get hung up on the finances of a Disney Cruise Line vacation — after all, a Disney cruise is a major investment!
Fortunately, you can pay for your Disney cruise slowly over time. When you book your sailing, you’ll only pay a deposit upfront — the rest can be paid in increments of your choosing. The final payment is due 90 days before your cruise.
![Disney Cruise deposit](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2023-disney-cruise-line-wonder-ship.png)
![Disney Cruise deposit](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2023-disney-cruise-line-wonder-ship.png)
Photo: Disney
Incredible Value
When you book a Disney cruise, the cost of your package includes just about everything you could need during your cruise.
![Treasure Disney Cruise Line Broadway Shows](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Treasure-Disney-Cruise-Line-Broadway-Shows-scaled.jpg)
![Treasure Disney Cruise Line Broadway Shows](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Treasure-Disney-Cruise-Line-Broadway-Shows-scaled.jpg)
Broadway Shows on Disney Treasure
Incredible amenities, world-class entertainment, and highly themed, immersive dining are all included in the price of your cruise package.
Reduce Costs
If you’re looking for the best deal possible, there are plenty of ways to save — so you can enjoy your Disney cruise without blowing the budget.
For instance, try sailing during an off-peak time (like September) or snagging a cruise at a discounted rate.
![Cherub Mickey fountain](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-dcl-disney-cruise-line-fantasy-enchanted-garden-sign-logo-decor-atmo-sea-bass-table-tuna-tower-salad-chocolate-torte-4.png)
![Cherub Mickey fountain](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-dcl-disney-cruise-line-fantasy-enchanted-garden-sign-logo-decor-atmo-sea-bass-table-tuna-tower-salad-chocolate-torte-4.png)
Cherub Mickey fountain
Discounts can be hard to come by, but Disney Cruise Line often offers special deals for Florida residents, Canadian residents, European residents, Disney Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club members, members of the US military, and Disney Visa cardholders. If you fall into any one of those categories, be sure to check for special savings!
![Disney Treasure](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-dcl-disney-cruise-line-disney-treasure.jpeg)
![Disney Treasure](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/2023-dcl-disney-cruise-line-disney-treasure.jpeg)
Photo: Disney
Discounts are also sometimes offered to the general public, so work with your Authorized Disney Vacation Planner to secure the best rate!
![Disney Cruise discount](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/disney-cruise-line-wish-ship-770x462-1.jpeg)
![Disney Cruise discount](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/disney-cruise-line-wish-ship-770x462-1.jpeg)
Photo: Disney
Once onboard, you can also reduce costs simply by enjoying the dining and amenities that are included in your package cost and avoiding any upcharge items.
Rotational dining includes three highly immersive (and delicious!) dining experiences, so splashing out for fine dining options is largely unnecessary.
![Remy Restaurant Disney Fantasy](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/remy-disney-fantasy.jpeg)
![Remy Restaurant Disney Fantasy](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/remy-disney-fantasy.jpeg)
Photo: Disney Cruise Line
In addition, forgo costly shore excursions and explore on your own instead. Disney’s beautiful ports of call have plenty to offer without any additional costs.
![New Castaway Cay Characters](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-01-at-14-36-09-Just-Revealed-Disneys-Castaway-Cay-Debuts-New-Character-Looks.png)
![New Castaway Cay Characters](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-01-at-14-36-09-Just-Revealed-Disneys-Castaway-Cay-Debuts-New-Character-Looks.png)
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
If your sailing includes a stop at Disney’s Castaway Cay or Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, you’ll enjoy a private island oasis complete with food, activities, and buckets of Disney magic – at no additional cost!
2. Logistics
Whatever you do, don’t let the prospect of paperwork deter you from your dream Disney Cruise Line vacation!
With incredible international destinations like Europe and Australia, it’s important to get your paperwork in order.
![Disney Cruise Line Europe](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/dcl-europe.jpeg)
![Disney Cruise Line Europe](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/dcl-europe.jpeg)
Photo: Disney Cruise Line
To find out what documentation is required for your sailing, refer to the Disney Cruise Line website, which outlines everything you’ll need for a successful Embarkation Day.
![passport](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Passport.jpg)
![passport](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Passport.jpg)
Barriers to Booking a Disney Cruise: Getting a Passport
If your sailing requires a passport, don’t fret. Filing for a US passport is easier and more convenient than ever. You can file for a passport by visiting a local acceptance facility or by submitting your information by mail.
![Disney Cruise Line](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/disney-cruise-line-sea-the-world.jpeg)
![Disney Cruise Line](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/disney-cruise-line-sea-the-world.jpeg)
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Routine processing will take anywhere from six to eight weeks. Meanwhile, expedited processing reduces your timeframe to 2-3 weeks for an additional fee.
![Disney Australia](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2023-disney-cruise-line-wonder-ship-in-australia-sydney.png)
![Disney Australia](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/2023-disney-cruise-line-wonder-ship-in-australia-sydney.png)
Photo: Disney
If you already have a passport, double-check your expiration date and allow time to renew if necessary!
3. No Idea Where to Start
Like any Disney vacation, booking a Disney cruise can feel overwhelming, especially for a first-timer. With countless options and a seemingly endless amount of information, booking your cruise can easily lead to decision fatigue.
![AquaMouse](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2022-07-11-13_32_51-Onboard-the-Disney-Wish_-Make-a-Splash-on-the-Upper-Decks-with-AquaMouse-All-Ne.png)
![AquaMouse](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2022-07-11-13_32_51-Onboard-the-Disney-Wish_-Make-a-Splash-on-the-Upper-Decks-with-AquaMouse-All-Ne.png)
PHOTO: Disney || AquaMouse on the Disney Wish
Fortunately, of all the potential barriers to booking your Disney cruise, this one is by far the easiest to overcome!
With just a little bit of research, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Embarkation Day, Disney cruise dining, Disney’s incredible fleet of ships, and of course, Disney Cruise Line’s amazing itineraries.
![](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/spiderman-disney-cruise.jpeg)
![](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/spiderman-disney-cruise.jpeg)
Photo: Disney Cruise Line
Want to cut straight to the fun part? An Authorized Disney Vacation Planner will help you streamline and simplify the booking process, so you’ll be sure to choose the right cruise for you.
![Disney 2024](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Diamond-EarMarked-Authorized-Disney-Vacation-Planner.png)
![Disney 2024](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Diamond-EarMarked-Authorized-Disney-Vacation-Planner.png)
MickeyTravels
MickeyTravels services are always 100% free, so you’ll never see a service charge. Services include continuous discount monitoring, custom itineraries, airport ground transfers, and more.
4. Not Just for Kids
Perhaps the biggest misconception about Disney Cruise Line is that it’s “just for kids.”
![Plan for Vacation](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Disney-Cruise-Line-Babies.jpg)
![Plan for Vacation](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Disney-Cruise-Line-Babies.jpg)
Photo: Disney Cruise Line
While Disney cruises do offer amazing amenities and entertainment that appeal to kids and families, Disney cruises are also an incredible vacation for child-free adults.
![](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Disney-Cruise-Kids.jpg)
![](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Disney-Cruise-Kids.jpg)
Photo: Disney
On a Disney cruise, you’re sure to find your fair share of families. But you’ll also find sophisticated lounges, world-class entertainment, adults-only pools, and a serene, full-service spa on every Disney ship.
![Senses Spa DCL](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/senses-disney-cruise-line-spa.jpeg)
![Senses Spa DCL](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/senses-disney-cruise-line-spa.jpeg)
Photo: Disney Cruise Line
In addition to Disney Cruise Line’s innovative Rotational Dining, you can also dine kid-free at upscale restaurants like Remy and Palo, where you’ll find romantic ambiance, elegant decor, and extraordinary cuisine prepared by world-renowned chefs.
![Remy Disney Fantasy](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/remy-dining-disney-fantasy.jpeg)
![Remy Disney Fantasy](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/remy-dining-disney-fantasy.jpeg)
Photo: Disney Cruise Line
Even if you’re not entirely kid-free, Disney Cruise Line’s youth clubs can give parents some much-needed “me” time.
Use of the ship’s youth clubs is included in every Disney Cruise Line package, so feel free to use them as little or as much as you’d like!
![DCL](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Oceaneers-Club.jpg)
![DCL](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Oceaneers-Club.jpg)
Photo: DCL
While kids enjoy the Oceaneer’s Club, parents are free to kick back at one of Disney’s many 18-and-over bars, lounges, and dance clubs.
![Lounge Disney Cruise](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/disney-cruise-line-lounge.jpeg)
![Lounge Disney Cruise](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/disney-cruise-line-lounge.jpeg)
Photo: Disney Cruise Line
5. Availability
Disney cruises are extremely popular, and with a limited number of ships and itineraries, it should come as no surprise that Disney Cruise Line sailings book up VERY quickly.
![Disney Cruise discount](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2023-dcl-disney-cruise-line-25th-anniversary-silver-anniversary-at-sea3.png)
![Disney Cruise discount](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/2023-dcl-disney-cruise-line-25th-anniversary-silver-anniversary-at-sea3.png)
Credit: Disney
If you have your heart set on a specific destination or sailing, work with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner to ensure you stay up-to-date on Disney’s newest ships and itineraries.
With the support of your vacation planner, you’ll score your desired itinerary and preferred stateroom…for the best possible price.
![Pixar Day at Sea Disney Cruise Line Fantasy Ship](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pixar-Day-at-Sea-Disney-Cruise-Line-Fantasy-Ship-063.jpg)
![Pixar Day at Sea Disney Cruise Line Fantasy Ship](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Pixar-Day-at-Sea-Disney-Cruise-Line-Fantasy-Ship-063.jpg)
Pixar Day at Sea on Disney Fantasy
6. “Floating Theme Park”
If you think Disney cruises are nothing but a “floating theme park,” think again! Disney cruises may offer plenty of magic onboard, but a Disney sailing is far from just another day in the park.
![Disney Cruise Line](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/disney-cruise-line-mardi-gras.jpeg)
![Disney Cruise Line](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/disney-cruise-line-mardi-gras.jpeg)
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
When you cruise with Disney, you’ll combine that trademark pixie dust with laid-back cruise vibes AND the adventure of the high seas. The result is a magical vacation, unlike anything you’ve experienced before.
It’s true that Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of fun, park-like amenities. From onboard attractions like the AquaMouse to Broadway-worthy entertainment, Disney cruises serve up the same Disney magic you’d find in the parks.
![Disney Cruise Line Moana Bucket List Itinerary](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/disney-cruise-line-moana.jpeg)
![Disney Cruise Line Moana Bucket List Itinerary](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/disney-cruise-line-moana.jpeg)
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
However, the similarities end there. On a Disney cruise, you’ll kick back and relax in a way that most of us don’t on Disney Parks vacation.
You’ll also explore multiple exciting destinations. Depending on your itinerary, your ports of call can include anything from iconic cultural sites to serene, tropical beaches like Disney’s beautiful private islands.
![New Castaway Cay Characters](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-01-at-14-35-40-Just-Revealed-Disneys-Castaway-Cay-Debuts-New-Character-Looks.png)
![New Castaway Cay Characters](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Screenshot-2024-03-01-at-14-35-40-Just-Revealed-Disneys-Castaway-Cay-Debuts-New-Character-Looks.png)
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Experience the natural beauty of Hawaii, discover the history of the Mediterranean, or explore the amazing wildlife of Alaska. On a Disney cruise, the opportunities for adventure and discovery are nearly endless!
![South Pacific Cruise](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/disney-cruise-line-pacific-islands.jpeg)
![South Pacific Cruise](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/disney-cruise-line-pacific-islands.jpeg)
Photo: Disney Cruise Line
Overcome Barriers to Booking Your Disney Cruise
If a Disney cruise is on your travel wish list, contact MickeyTravels today to book your sailing!
![Disney villains heroes cruise](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024-dcl-disney-cruise-line-disney-destiny-cruise-ship5.png)
![Disney villains heroes cruise](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024-dcl-disney-cruise-line-disney-destiny-cruise-ship5.png)
![Disney villains heroes cruise](https://mickeyblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024-dcl-disney-cruise-line-disney-destiny-cruise-ship5.png)
Credit: Disney