Why are Disney Cruises So Expensive? Because They’re AWESOME!

An undeniably popular vacation choice, cruising is a fantastic way to explore the world without the stress. And with all-you-can-eat buffets and frequent booking discounts, cruises can be an exciting and budget-friendly vacation. But while other well-known cruise lines are offering attractive discounts, Disney Cruise Line sailings can come at a shockingly steep cost! So when other cruise lines are running deals, why are Disney cruises so expensive?

Whether you’re a cruise aficionado or just testing the waters, odds are you’ve heard of Disney Cruise Line. With beautiful ports of call, incredible dining, and dazzling entertainment, Disney Cruise Line offers all the high-quality amenities – and pixie dust! – you’d expect of any Disney vacation.

So Why Are Disney Cruises So Expensive?

So why are Disney cruises so expensive? The simple answer is, because they’re worth it! With Disney Cruise Line, you’ll combine all the benefits of traditional cruising with the unforgettable magic of Disney! Whether you’re a parent or just a fun-loving adult, Disney Cruise Line will transport you to amazing ports of call and immerse you in that unique brand of Disney magic. You’ll be treated like royalty as you enjoy incredible fireworks at sea, relax in adults-only spaces, and meet Mickey and all his friends!

Are Disney Cruise Ships Worth It?

Whether you’re a Disney fan or you just love to sail the open seas, Disney Cruise Line itineraries are well worth the expense. With sailings across the globe, Disney’s top-of-the-line cruise ships offer all the amenities of any standard cruise line – and then some! You’ll find world-class entertainment, incredible dining, and magnificently beautiful ports of call. Best of all, Disney Cruise Line is the only cruise line where you’ll experience the extra-attentive customer service and immersive, magical theming that puts Disney on the map.

Disney Cruises Cater to Families

For families, finding the perfect vacation can be well near impossible. But with enchanting offerings for every age group, Disney cruises are surefire hit for kids and adults alike! In addition to magical parties and entertainment designed for families, Disney Cruise Line also offers a variety of kids-only activities. Meanwhile, adults will enjoy restaurants and pool decks that are specifically kid-free.

While the kids enjoy the Youth Clubs, parents can enjoy kid-free activities including spectacular dining, lounges and bars, relaxing full-service spa treatments, and adults-only pool decks. Be aware that they do not offer casinos any of their ships. In keeping with Disney’s family-friendly branding, Disney Cruise Line limits gambling to boisterous games of BINGO, which are open to all ages.

Magical Amenities

Want to see a Broadway-quality show or a magnificent nighttime spectacular? On Disney Cruise Line, you’ll do that and more! You’ll find superior amenities from exclusive character experiences and themed deck parties to generously sized staterooms that accommodate larger parties. You’ll also enjoy amazing live theater featuring your favorite Disney characters. Depending on your ship, you’ll see Beauty and the Beast, Tangled: The Musical, or Frozen, A Musical Spectacular. Disney’s newest ships (Disney Wish and the highly anticipated Disney Treasure) even feature the AquaMouse water ride, Disney’s first “attraction at sea.” From incredible fireworks to superior accommodations, Disney Cruise Line will not disappoint!

While most cruise lines offer kids’ clubs, no one does kids’ entertainment like Disney! Disney’s Youth Clubs consist of highly-themed areas that include a variety of interactive experiences for kids, tweens, and teens. From character experiences to animation classes, Disney’s magical Youth Clubs are undoubtedly a cut above the rest. Offerings differ by ship, so be sure to check out the specifics for details. Your booking price includes Youth Clubs for children aged 3-12. Infant care for younger children is also available at an extra fee.

Rotational Dining…With DELICIOUS Food!

Disney cruise ships offer a revolutionary form of cruise dining known as rotational dining. Unlike other cruises where you dine in the same restaurant each night, Disney cruises offer guests the chance to experience the immersive environment of each of the ship’s various dining establishments.

On Disney Wish, you’ll enjoy the glamour of the 1920s at 1923, dine with Anna and Elsa at Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure, and engage in interactive play at Worlds of Marvel. Each night, you will rotate to a new restaurant, along with your tablemates and wait staff. On Disney ships, you’ll enjoy varied dining and atmospheric experiences, along with the camaraderie and exceptional service you get when you dine with the same group and servers each night.

Each Disney cruise ship also offers a variety of grab-and-go, buffet, and room-service dining. Or, adults can enjoy a romantic date (or a peaceful reprieve!) at one of Disney Cruise Line’s adults-only dining establishments. These add-ons are not included in your booking, so budget accordingly.

Are Disney Cruises Considered Luxury?

With their family-friendly focus, Disney Cruise Line is often lumped in with standard-level cruise companies. But Disney Cruise Line offers superior amenities, entertainment and dining in comparison to other family-oriented cruise lines. With amenities similar to premium-level cruise lines, Disney offers a premium cruising experience that warrants the premium cost.

Limited Availability and High Demand

With extremely high demand and only five ships in service, Disney Cruise Line sailings often sell out far in advance. Disney Cruise Line’s fleet consists of Disney Wonder, Disney Magic, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy,  and Disney’s newest ship, Disney Wish. Disney Treasure enters service in December 2024, and Disney Adventure will join the ranks sometime in 2025.

That Special Brand of Disney Magic!

When you’re onboard a Disney cruise ship, you’ll enjoy all the magic and enchantment of any Disney vacation. You’ll meet Mickey and Minnie along with your favorite Disney princesses, Pixar pals, and Marvel heroes. From Broadway-level theater to character dining and dinner shows, Disney Cruise Line is the perfect way to experience the magic while sailing the seven seas!

How Much Should I Expect to Pay for a Disney Cruise?

Prices vary on cruise length, sailing dates and itineraries, but generally begin at around $1000 per person. Your all-inclusive per-person cost includes most dining, on-board entertainment, use of the ship’s many amenities. Youth Clubs for children 3-12 are also included in your price. However, transportation to and from your departure port, alcoholic beverages, spa and salon services, on-shore excursions, and adults-only dining experiences will add extra costs to your vacation. Be sure to budget accordingly!

What is the Cheapest Way to Take a Disney Cruise?

For the best prices, book early and go off-season. Shoulder season and off-peak cruising times vary by destination. While you can sometimes find last-minute deals on Disney cruises, prices increase the closer you get to the sailing date. By booking early, you’ll guarantee your spot and secure the best pricing.

If you’re a Disney Vacation Club Member you can use points to book your sailing with Disney Cruise Line. You can read about being a DVC member here.

Disney Cruises Are So Worth the Price!

Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable family vacation or an enchanting adults-only getaway, Disney cruises combine the magic of Disney with interesting cultural experiences and beautiful destinations across the globe. For more information on your magical seafaring adventure, contact us here to find out how!