Remember when your kids were begging for a Disney cruise? Planning that magical vacation involved a lot of research, especially about pricing. If you’re curious about travel costs from years past or simply interested in understanding how Disney cruise pricing has evolved, you’re in the right place. This post will break down how much Disney cruises cost in 2017, factors that influenced those prices, and what you can expect today. We’ll cover average costs, itinerary examples, and tips for finding the best deals.
Disney Cruise Costs in 2017
Understanding how much Disney cruises cost in 2017 requires considering several factors. This section will explore the basic price ranges for different itineraries and cabin types, offering a comprehensive overview of cruise expenses. It will also help you contextualize how these prices compare to today’s market.
Typical Cruise Length and Destinations
Disney Cruise Line offered a variety of itineraries in 2017, ranging from short 3-night Bahamian cruises to longer 7-night Caribbean voyages and even transatlantic journeys. Shorter cruises generally started at a lower price point, while longer, more exotic destinations commanded a higher premium.
- 3-Night Bahamian Cruise: These were among the most affordable options, often starting around $500-$700 per person for an inside stateroom. These cruises typically visited Nassau and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. The accessibility and short duration made them popular for first-time cruisers or families on a budget.
- 4-Night Bahamian Cruise: Adding an extra night to the Bahamian itinerary usually increased the price to around $700-$900 per person for an inside stateroom. This allowed for more time to enjoy Castaway Cay or an additional port of call.
- 7-Night Caribbean Cruise: These longer voyages offered a more immersive cruise experience, with prices ranging from $1,000-$1,500 per person for an inside stateroom, depending on the specific itinerary and time of year. Popular ports of call included St. Thomas, Cozumel, and Grand Cayman.
Cabin Types and Pricing
The type of cabin you selected had a significant impact on the overall cost. Interior staterooms were the most budget-friendly, while oceanview, verandah, and concierge suites came with higher price tags. The size and location of the cabin also played a role.
- Inside Stateroom: The most economical option, these cabins do not have windows. In 2017, they ranged from $500-$1000 per person, depending on the cruise length and destination.
- Oceanview Stateroom: These cabins feature a porthole or window, offering natural light. They typically cost $700-$1200 per person. The presence of natural light makes a big difference for many cruisers.
- Verandah Stateroom: With a private balcony, these cabins provided a personal outdoor space. Expect to pay between $900-$1500 per person. Many find that the verandah is an integral part of the cruise experience allowing private outdoor time.
- Suites: Offering the most space and amenities, suites were the most expensive option, ranging from $1500-$3000+ per person. These often included concierge service and other perks. These are ideal for larger families or groups.
Seasonal Variations and Discounts
Pricing fluctuated based on the time of year. Cruises during school breaks and holidays (summer, Christmas, spring break) were generally more expensive than those during the off-season (September, October, early December, January). Disney also occasionally offered discounts and promotions, such as early booking discounts or discounts for Florida residents. Securing your cruise far in advance often led to better rates.
Factors Influencing Disney Cruise Pricing
Several elements contributed to the overall cost of a Disney cruise in 2017 and continue to impact pricing today. Understanding these factors is key to planning your cruise and potentially saving money. This section breaks down the key variables that determine the price you pay.
Demand and Availability
Like any travel product, Disney cruise prices are heavily influenced by supply and demand. Popular itineraries and sail dates tend to sell out quickly, driving up prices. Conversely, less popular itineraries or sail dates during the off-season may offer better deals. Booking early gives you a better chance of securing your preferred cabin and itinerary at a reasonable price.
- Popular Destinations: Cruises to destinations like the Caribbean and Alaska, especially during peak season, tend to be more expensive due to higher demand. Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, is a huge draw.
- School Holidays: Sailings during school breaks (summer, spring break, winter break) are in high demand, leading to inflated prices. Families are often limited to these times for travel.
- Capacity: Disney ships have a limited number of cabins, so once a ship is close to full, prices tend to increase. The limited number of rooms creates a sense of urgency.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Disney cruises are known for their inclusive nature, which impacts the initial pricing. The base fare typically includes accommodations, meals (excluding specialty restaurants), entertainment, and many onboard activities. However, it’s crucial to understand what’s not included, such as alcoholic beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions, gratuities, and transportation to and from the port.
- Included Amenities: The price includes your cabin, meals in main dining rooms, buffets, and quick-service restaurants, as well as access to pools, shows, and character meet-and-greets. The quality of food is a notable point.
- Excluded Costs: Be prepared to factor in additional expenses like alcoholic drinks, specialty dining at Palo or Remy, shore excursions in port, gratuities for servers and housekeeping, and transportation to the cruise terminal. These can significantly add to the overall cost.
- Onboard Activities: While many activities are included, some, like spa treatments, specialty classes, and premium character experiences, come at an extra cost. It’s easy to spend more than you expect onboard.
Ship and Itinerary Specifics
The specific Disney ship you choose and the itinerary it sails on can significantly affect the price. Newer or recently refurbished ships often command higher prices. Longer itineraries and those visiting more exotic destinations will also be more expensive. Consider your priorities when selecting a ship and itinerary.
- Ship Class: The Dream and Fantasy ships (launched before 2017) were generally more expensive than the older Magic and Wonder ships. The newer ships offered more features and amenities.
- Itinerary Length: Longer cruises naturally cost more due to the increased number of days at sea and ports of call. Longer cruises tend to offer more comprehensive experiences.
- Port Fees and Taxes: These fees vary depending on the itinerary and are usually added to the base cruise fare. These can be substantial and should be factored into the budget.
Examples of 2017 Disney Cruise Pricing
To further illustrate the cost of Disney cruises in 2017, let’s look at some specific examples. These examples provide a clearer picture of the pricing variations based on different factors like destination, cabin type, and time of year. Remember that these are just examples, and actual prices may have varied.
3-Night Bahamian Cruise (Disney Dream)
A family of four looking to take a quick getaway on the Disney Dream in October 2017 might have encountered the following prices:
- Inside Stateroom: Approximately $2,200 – $2,800 total for all four guests. This option provided a budget-friendly way to experience a Disney cruise.
- Oceanview Stateroom: Around $2,800 – $3,500 total for all four guests. The window offered a view of the ocean, enhancing the cruise experience.
- Verandah Stateroom: In the range of $3,600 – $4,500 total for all four guests. The private balcony added a luxurious touch to the vacation.
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise (Disney Fantasy)
A family planning a longer vacation on the Disney Fantasy in July 2017 could have expected these prices:
- Inside Stateroom: Approximately $4,000 – $5,000 total for all four guests. This provided an affordable option for a longer cruise.
- Oceanview Stateroom: Around $5,000 – $6,500 total for all four guests. The ocean view made the cabin more comfortable.
- Verandah Stateroom: Ranging from $6,500 – $8,000 total for all four guests. The balcony allowed for private relaxation and enjoyment of the sea views.
Case Study: Discount for Florida Residents
A Florida resident family of four booked a 4-night Bahamian cruise on the Disney Magic in September 2017. Thanks to a Florida resident discount, they saved approximately 20% on the base cruise fare. This brought the total cost of an oceanview stateroom down from $3,200 to $2,560. These discounts can make a significant difference in the overall cost.
Table: Comparing Cruise Costs (2017)
| Cruise Type | Cabin Type | Estimated Cost (Family of 4) |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Night Bahamian | Inside Stateroom | $2,200 – $2,800 |
| 3-Night Bahamian | Verandah Stateroom | $3,600 – $4,500 |
| 7-Night Eastern Caribbean | Inside Stateroom | $4,000 – $5,000 |
| 7-Night Eastern Caribbean | Verandah Stateroom | $6,500 – $8,000 |
How to Find Deals on Disney Cruises
While Disney cruises can be expensive, there are several strategies to help you find deals and save money. This section outlines some proven methods for securing a more affordable cruise vacation. From booking early to utilizing travel agents, these tips can help you make your dream cruise a reality without breaking the bank.
Book Early or Last Minute
Booking well in advance (6-12 months) can often secure you the best prices and cabin availability. Disney frequently offers early booking discounts. Alternatively, you might find last-minute deals if there are unsold cabins closer to the sail date, although this is less predictable. Booking either very early or very late in the process can unlock savings.
- Early Booking: Booking far in advance allows you to take advantage of early booking discounts and secure your preferred cabin type and location. You also have more time to pay off the cruise.
- Last-Minute Deals: While riskier, you might find discounted rates on unsold cabins closer to the sail date. This is more common during the off-season. This requires flexibility in your travel plans.
Travel During the Off-Season
As mentioned earlier, cruising during the off-season (September, October, early December, January) can significantly reduce your costs. These times of year generally have lower demand, resulting in lower prices. You’ll also likely encounter fewer crowds. Avoiding peak season travel is key.
- Fewer Crowds: Off-season cruises offer a more relaxed experience with shorter lines and fewer people onboard. This can enhance your overall enjoyment.
- Lower Prices: Prices are generally lower during the off-season due to decreased demand. This can save you a significant amount of money.
Use a Travel Agent
A travel agent specializing in Disney cruises can be a valuable resource. They have access to deals and promotions that you might not find on your own. They can also provide expert advice on itinerary selection, cabin choices, and onboard activities. They act as your advocate during the planning process.
- Expert Advice: Travel agents specializing in Disney cruises have in-depth knowledge of the ships, itineraries, and onboard experiences. They can offer personalized recommendations based on your needs and preferences.
- Access to Deals: Travel agents often have access to exclusive discounts and promotions that are not available to the general public. They can help you find the best possible deal.
- Time Savings: Planning a Disney cruise can be time-consuming. A travel agent can handle all the details, saving you time and stress.
Myth: Disney Cruises are Always the Most Expensive
While Disney cruises are often perceived as being very expensive, this isn’t always the case. Comparing prices with other cruise lines and considering the inclusions (like meals and entertainment) can reveal that Disney offers competitive value, especially for families with young children. When comparing value for money, the inclusion of food, entertainment and childcare must be factored in. Other cruise lines may appear cheaper initially, but extra costs quickly accumulate.
FAQ
Question: How much were gratuities on Disney cruises in 2017?
Answer: In 2017, Disney Cruise Line’s recommended gratuities were approximately $12 per person, per night. This covered the service provided by your stateroom host, dining room server, assistant server, and head server. These amounts were automatically added to your onboard account but could be adjusted at guest services.
Question: Did Disney offer payment plans for cruises in 2017?
Answer: Yes, Disney Cruise Line offered payment plans allowing guests to spread out the cost of their cruise over time. Typically, a deposit was required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due several weeks before the sail date. This made budgeting for a Disney cruise more manageable. Specific payment schedules varied.
Question: Were there any differences in pricing between the different Disney cruise ships in 2017?
Answer: Yes, there were differences in pricing based on the ship. Newer or recently refurbished ships like the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy generally commanded higher prices than the older Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. This was due to the newer ships offering more amenities and enhanced experiences. The age and features of a ship influence its cost.
Question: What additional costs should I factor into my 2017 Disney cruise budget besides the base fare?
Answer: Beyond the base cruise fare, you should budget for gratuities, alcoholic beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions, onboard activities (like spa treatments), souvenirs, and transportation to and from the port. These extra expenses can significantly increase the overall cost of your cruise, so planning is key. A good rule of thumb is to add around 30% to your base fare for extras.
Question: Were discounts available for military personnel on Disney cruises in 2017?
Answer: Yes, Disney Cruise Line often offered discounts for active and retired US military personnel. These discounts varied depending on the sailing date and availability but could provide substantial savings. Eligibility requirements and specific discount amounts changed periodically and were subject to verification. Check directly with Disney Cruise Line or a travel agent specializing in military discounts for current offers.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much Disney cruises cost in 2017 provides valuable context for comparing pricing trends over time. While the costs have likely changed since then, the underlying factors that influence cruise prices – such as cabin type, itinerary, and time of year – remain relevant. By leveraging strategies like booking early and traveling during the off-season, you can increase your chances of finding a magical Disney cruise vacation that fits your budget. Happy cruising!