Top 10 Tips for First Time Cruisers on Disney Cruise Line

10.  The best pricing is generally when the initial booking dates open and as availability lessens, the price increases.  There may be some sailings that are not fully booked that come out with a great discount on non-booked rooms, they are non-refundable and non-changeable.  These may not be offered for every sailing.

9. Know your budget. This is supposed to be a relaxing vacation with your family so avoid feeling stressed out about the finance side of things.  If this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience get the best cabin you can afford. Plan your port excursions.  Choose which one you want to go on and decide how much money you want to take for each one. There will be many native sellers who will be trying to get your attention and money so be prepared for these challenges.   Make sure if you are going ashore on your own that you arrive back at the ship ahead of your departure time.  You may opt for a personal exploration of the port for a more economical choice but do your homework by reading travel guides at the library or online sites as part of your trip planning.

8. Plan on purchasing some of the photographs taken onboard and if you are taking your own photographs have a way to upload the digital photos or have enough digital cards so you won’t be limited in how many photographs you can take. Make sure you pack extra batteries or charging devices.

7. If you are in a group you will probably find securing your own transportation via a car rental, a town car service or van could be much cheaper than the Disney motor coach.

6. Don’t over pack; there are laundry facilities on board. Find out how many formal, semi-formal or theme party nights will take place on your cruise so you know what to take other than cruise casual clothing.

5. Sign up your children for the special programs for them on the ship. Children really do have a blast at the children’s activities, so adults, prepare for some fun of your own! You will be given a pager to let you know if your child needs you and you can check on them anytime. There are important security safeguards for anyone coming to pick up the children.  If your child seems overwhelmed let them have a more restful time period in the cabin or by the pool with you. There are so many things going on that they may just need some quiet time.

4. Take advantage of the on board spa for some pampering; no one does it like Disney! The spa time slots get booked quickly so don’t wait to schedule your time.

3. You can bring your own alcohol on board in your carry-on luggage not to exceed 22” wide, 14”high and 9” deep.  If you bring a bottle of wine to your table for dinner you will pay a $20.00 corking fee.  There are some restrictions such as you cannot consume your own alcohol in a public lounge. If you want a drink in your stateroom prior to dinner, and you bring it you could save yourself a lot of money.  Be aware the bars, including the coffee one, add gratuity to your purchase automatically.

2. Understand the customs requirements for the areas you are visiting and have your paperwork and itinerary in order.  When you work with a Disney Cruise specialist they will help you with all of that. Once you have your confirmation number you will be able to complete your forms online at the official Disney Cruise Line website.

1.  Have your ID and all documentation for each person in your party ready at the terminal, and make sure they are properly signed. Without proper documentation you may not be able to board.  Arrive early but not before the terminal, and its parking lot, opens at 10:30AM.  If you need to have something to eat while waiting to board you can charge items in the terminal to your stateroom card.