disney cruise family price

Understanding the Cost of a Disney Cruise for a Family of Four

A Disney Cruise is a fantastic way to enjoy adventure, culture, family bonding, and Disney entertainment. However, it can be expensive. You should consider the estimated cost of your voyage before you commit to see if it fits within your family’s budget.

The total cost of a Disney cruise for a family of four varies substantially based on the length of the trip, cabin category, destinations, travel dates, and extras purchased. A shorter 3-4 night Caribbean cruise can start around $2,800. The most popular 5-night Caribbean option typically averages $7,760 for a family of four or $1,940 per person, including taxes and add-on expenses. High-end cruises spanning 7-14 nights in luxury suites and exotic ports sometimes top $20,000.

This guide breaks down the key factors impacting the total price of a Disney cruise for a party of four. We’ll analyze costs category by category, provide insider savings tips, and showcase real-world pricing examples to demonstrate how cabin choice, destinations, travel times, and add-ons influence total expenditure. With this knowledge, you can determine if a Disney cruise aligns with your family’s budget.

Find Out How Much Your Disney Cruise Will Cost

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✅ Perfect Itineraries & Sail Dates

✅ The Best Disney Cruise Ships

✅ Great Staterooms at the Best Prices

✅ Generous Onboard Credit & Other Perks

The Vacationeer can customize your entire Disney cruise to align with your family’s needs, preferences, and budget. Plus, their generous Disney onboard credit can save you money on cruise purchases!

Contact The Vacationeer , our recommended Disney travel agency , today to begin planning your magical Disney Cruise Line vacation!

What Impacts the Cost of a Disney Cruise for a Family of 4?

Disney Cruise Line offers many cruise options ranging from quick weekend escapes to long global trips that appeal to different budgets and interests. This way, there is a Disney voyage suitable for every family.

When estimating costs for a family of four, there are four key factors that impact the total price of your Disney Cruise:

1. Cruise Duration

A short Bahamas cruise will be cheaper than a week-long Caribbean cruise

Disney Cruise options range from 2 nights up to 2 full weeks at sea. However, the 3-7 night voyage range appeals most to families, especially classic Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries.

The duration of your chosen cruise plays a significant role in determining the overall cost . Brief 3-4 night sailings allow for fast, affordable escapes with base prices starting around $2,800 for a family of four. Extended 5-night or longer cruises provide a more comprehensive Disney experience but at a proportionally higher total cost.

2. Stateroom Category

Verandah Staterooms are costlier than Inside Staterooms

Disney Cruise Line has four main cabin types based on price, size, and amenities: Inside, Oceanview, Verandah, and Concierge. The stateroom category you choose will have a major influence on the overall price.

For example, Inside staterooms are the most economical, but the price difference between Inside, Oceanview, and even Verandah staterooms is relatively minimal.

Here are some estimated average cost scenarios for a family of four based on different room categories

Deluxe Inside Staterooms:

• 3-Night Bahamas Cruise: Approximately $3,200 – $4,000
• 5-Night Caribbean Cruise: Approximately $5,500 – $7,000
• 7-Night European Cruise: Approximately $8,000 – $10,000

Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms:

• 3-Night Bahamas Cruise: Approximately $3,500 – $4,500
• 5-Night Caribbean Cruise: Approximately $6,000 – $7,500
• 7-Night European Cruise: Approximately $9,000 – $11,500

Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah:

• 3-Night Bahamas Cruise: Approximately $4,000 – $5,000
• 5-Night Caribbean Cruise: Approximately $7,000 – $8,500
• 7-Night European Cruise: Approximately $10,000 – $13,000

Concierge Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah:

• 3-Night Bahamas Cruise: Approximately $5,000 – $6,500+
• 5-Night Caribbean Cruise: Approximately $9,000 – $11,000+
• 7-Night European Cruise: Approximately $13,000 – $16,000+

The prices for Disney’s Concierge staterooms are notably higher due to the additional luxury and amenities they offer. Please note that these are approximate figures, and actual prices can vary based on specific cruise dates, promotions, and availability.

Check with The Vacationeer for the Latest Pricing

3. Choosing Your Ideal Disney Cruise Destination

Alaska is a popular but pricey destination for Disney Cruises

When selecting a destination for your family’s Disney Cruise, carefully weigh the unique experiences and pricing offered at each locale:

• Caribbean Cruises : A forever favorite thanks to the tropical allure, many family-friendly activities, and beaches. A standard 5-night Disney Caribbean cruise for a family of four starts around $5,500. It often includes a stop at Castaway Cay – Disney’s private island paradise.
• Alaskan Cruises : Offer majestic glacier scenery, rare wildlife encounters, and adventures like dog sledding. But the premium experiences come at a higher price – expect to budget $7,500 and up for similar Alaskan cruises.
• European Cruises : Immerse your family in Old World cultures and charm. While these cruises are expensive (around $8,000+ for five nights), they combine top-notch Disney service with educational excursions.
• Bahamas & Mexican Riviera : More budget-friendly warm weather options, with 5-night cruises starting at around $4,500. Offer beautiful beaches and landmarks paired with Disney magic.

When selecting a destination, balance your family’s interests and budget. Seek an affordable tropical getaway or splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure – the decision is yours!

4. Understanding Onboard Cost Considerations

Indulge in a spa treatment at Senses… for a fee

While the base Disney Cruise fare covers accommodations, dining, and entertainment, you’ll want to factor in potential additional expenditures as well:

• Specialty Dining : Upcharge restaurants like Palo and Remy offer elevated cuisine and service (typically $45-$125 per guest).
• Shore Excursions : Guided land tours range from $50 for basic options to $300+ for specialized activities like helicopter tours.
• Spa Treatments : Prices range from $100 for basic services to over $400 for 90-minute bamboo couples massages.
• Souvenirs : Peruse gift shops for Disney keepsakes, with typical prices starting from $20. More unique items can cost $100+.
• Beverages : Cocktails ($8+ each) and specialty coffees ($3-7) boost onboard tabs.
• Kid Activities : Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique makeovers range from $100 to $450.

Consider these additional costs when planning your Disney Cruise for four.

Earn Free Credit Toward Onboard Expenses When You Book Through The Vacationeer

Our Family’s Disney Cruise Cost Breakdown

I have learned through experience that understanding and managing expenses is essential to making these dream vacations a reality. Over the past few years, my wife Jaimie, son Ben, daughter Ava, and I have taken two Disney Cruise Line voyages, learning to balance value, enjoyment, and the signature Disney magic within our family’s budget. Key factors that affected our bottom line included cruise duration, destination, stateroom category, and onboard costs.

Here are cost insights into our last two family cruises:

Our 5-Night Caribbean Cruise Adventure

Our tropical getaway marked our triumphant return to Disney Cruise Line after the pandemic. We had a wonderful time with our children, making magical memories under the sun and sand.

• Duration : 5 nights
• Stateroom : Mid-Tier Deluxe Oceanview
• Total Cost : Approximately $8,000

We chose a Deluxe Oceanview stateroom because it offered a fantastic ocean view without the added expense of a verandah. Our family enjoyed the complimentary dining and activities, especially at Disney’s picturesque Castaway Cay. Jaimie and I splurged on an adults-only night out at the specialty restaurant Palo. Overall, we had a memorable Disney vacation that provided great value.

Our 7-Night Alaskan Cruise Odyssey

Our Disney adventure reached awe-inspiring new heights with this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

• Duration : 7 nights
• Stateroom : Premium Verandah
• Total Cost : Approximately $11,000

We enjoyed a Family Verandah stateroom, which allowed us to take in the glaciers and wildlife from our private balcony. We balanced some luxury excursions with economical onboard entertainment and dining, making this cruise a momentous milestone vacation for the ages.

Insights from Our Family’s Disney Cruise Experience

Our experiences on Disney Cruises have given us the knowledge to help families achieve their dream trips by striking a balance between value and magical experiences. Here is a more detailed look:

• Dining Choices : We took advantage of the included dining options, which were both economical and enjoyable. This allowed us to enjoy delicious meals without incurring additional expenses.
• Stateroom Selection : We chose a Deluxe Oceanview stateroom, which offered a good balance between affordability and comfort. While Verandah rooms were tempting, especially for scenic routes, the Oceanview option provided a pleasant experience at a lower cost.
• Entertainment and Activities : Free entertainment was a major advantage. The ship offered endless activities, from shows to pools, at no extra cost.
• Utilizing Kids’ Clubs : A highlight was the free kids’ clubs, which provided fantastic, age-appropriate fun for our children while we enjoyed adult time.

Expanded Budgeting Tips for a Disney Cruise

Smart budgeting can significantly enhance your Disney Cruise experience.

Here are some additional tips to consider:

• Off-Peak Travel : Cruising during less popular times, like the off-season, can lead to better deals.
• Smart Excursion Choices : We balanced our desire for one-of-a-kind experiences with cost considerations, opting for a mix of free activities and well-researched tours.
• Dining Within Budget : The included dining options on the ship were not only convenient but also helped us save money, reducing the temptation to splurge on specialty dining.
• Utilizing a Travel Agency : Partnering with agencies like The Vacationeer can offer advantages. They often have access to the best deals and can sometimes secure extra perks like onboard credit.
• Looking for Promotions : Keep an eye out for limited-time offers, resident discounts, or other special promotions that Disney Cruise Line may offer. These can provide significant savings.
• Early Booking : Booking your Disney cruise well in advance can sometimes lead to better rates and more stateroom options.
• Last-Minute Deals : Last-minute Disney Cruise bookings can also offer savings, although options may be limited.

Discover Current Promotions and Discounts

Frequently Asked Questions About Disney Cruise Costs

Are kids’ clubs included in the base fare.

Yes, kids’ clubs come complimentary with your cruise booking, adding tremendous value through diverse activities tailored specially for children. This popular offering provides hours of entertainment without any extra fees.

What’s the best way to find an affordable Disney Cruise?

Booking during special promotional windows and selecting more economical stateroom categories are two effective strategies for savings. Additionally, using a specialist like The Vacationeer grants access to exclusive perks that minimize costs.

What’s the average price for a family of 4?

For planning purposes, a typical Caribbean cruise spans five nights and costs approximately $7,760 in total for a family of four, working out to about $1,940 per person . But prices can range more widely based on factors like season, itinerary, and room type.

How much should I budget for a 7-night Disney Cruise?

Expect premium pricing for an extended 7-night Disney Cruise, likely meeting or exceeding $10,000 for a family of four, depending on variables like stateroom level. Unique destinations like Alaska or Europe and high seasons increase costs further through added demand.

Do children receive discounted fares?

Yes, children are typically offered lower fares than the standard adult rate, with savings dependent on their age bracket, cruise duration, and occasionally even room category. Short weekend sailings tend to provide the deepest discounts for kids. Note that even infants are charged cruise fares — that’s a significant difference when compared to a Disney World vacation (where children under age 3 don’t need tickets).

Key Takeaways on Disney Cruise Costs for Families of Four

At its core, a Disney Cruise is an investment in cultivating magical memories that no dollar value can encapsulate. From quality family bonding to awe-inspiring Disney entertainment across picturesque destinations, this journey offers an experience money can’t buy.

We’ve explored the financial dynamics, including an average price tag of $7,760 for a quintessential 5-night Caribbean Disney Cruise getaway for a family of four. The total cost of your trip will be determined by your choices, and special add-ons, such as shore excursions, premium experiences, stateroom upgrades, premium drinks, and more, allow you to create a customized journey and, to some extent, your budget.

The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out alone. The thoughtful travel specialists at The Vacationeer provide complimentary and unparalleled support in designing your dream Disney Cruise package down to every last detail. From cost savings to luxury travel to exceptional convenience, having their experts steer your journey makes navigating the planning process smooth sailing.

With personalized care and guidance every step of the way, a Disney Cruise sets the stage for forging once-in-a-lifetime memories that will shine brightly for years to come.

Booking Your Disney Cruise Adventure

For families seeking expert guidance on planning an amazing Disney Cruise within budget, we highly recommend partnering with The Vacationeer . Their specialized Disney Cruise travel agents offer valuable insights and exclusive perks.

As an Earmarked Diamond level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , The Vacationeer provides complimentary and unmatched service when booking any Disney Cruise trip. Beyond their expertise with Disney ships, their knowledgeable team stays well-versed across today’s top cruise lines, including Carnival , Norwegian , Royal Caribbean , and Princess .

Benefits of Booking with The Vacationeer

• Cost Savings : Benefit from their insider knowledge of the best Disney Cruise promotions and discounts currently available. Pricing is often inaccessible without an agent.
• Onboard Credit : Depending on your cruise, receive up to $1,000 in onboard spending credit for extras like spa treatments , shore excursions , souvenirs, alcohol , and gratuities .
• Personalized Service : Get assigned a dedicated agent who will provide customized guidance based on your family’s needs from start to finish. Much more attentive service compared to large agencies.
• Seamless Support : Hassle-free support handling all cruise booking intricacies and paperwork. All you need to do is relax, pack, and set sail!

With The Vacationeer as your partner, embarking on an enchanting Disney Cruise tailored to your family and budget is smooth sailing. Their friendly experts are ready to help at no additional cost to you. Reach out today to start planning your adventure.

Additional Resources for Disney Cruise Line

Peruse our related articles to find the best itineraries , ports, and tips and tricks for your upcoming Disney Cruise Line vacation.

Upcoming Itineraries:

• 2024 Disney Cruises
• 2025 Disney Cruises

Departure Points and Destinations:

• Disney Cruises from Florida
• Disney Cruises from Port Canaveral
• Disney Cruises from Miami
• Disney Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Disney Cruises to Hawaii
• Disney Cruise to Alaska
• Disney Cruises from Galveston
• Disney Cruises from New Orleans
• Disney Cruises from New York
• Disney Cruises from San Diego
• Disney Cruises in Europe

Additional Disney Cruise Line Resources:

• How Much Is a Disney Cruise
• Ways to Save Money on a Disney Cruise
• Cheapest Month to Book a Disney Cruise
• Best Time to Go on a Disney Cruise
• Are Disney Cruises Worth It
• Florida Resident Discounts for Disney Cruises
• What Is Included on a Disney Cruise
• Best Disney Cruise Ship For Kids
• Best Cruise Line for Kids
• Disney Cruises for Adults
• Going on a Disney Cruise for the First Time
• Themed Disney Cruises
• Castaway Cay Tips
• Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

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How Much Does a Disney Cruise Cost? 2024 Pricing Explained

The Disney Wish will sail its inaugural season of three- and four-night cruises to Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, from its new home port of Port Canaveral, Florida.

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of Disney-themed ships with all-inclusive cruises traveling all over the world. Disney Cruises often Broadway-caliber dinner shows, Disney lounge-themed experiences, character meet and greets, and other themed experiences. Disney Cruises also offer amazing amenities and luxurious upgrade options for guests looking to sail in style. So this also begs the question, what does a Disney Cruise cost? 

If you're new to the experience of cruises, it also helps to understand how cruises are typically priced and what cruise lines mean by all-inclusive voyages. Keep reading for our full breakdown of Disney Cruise costs including amenities, inclusive options, and optional upgrades. We have experienced a variety of Disney Cruises plus we have the experience of helping guests budget for their Disney vacations whether it's for Disneyland, Walt Disney World or a Disney Cruise Line experience. 

Get exclusive access to prices on hotel & tickets just for Mickey Visit subscribers. Don't miss our travel hacks newsletter!

In this planning guide:

Disney Cruise Cost Pricing Explained 

Let's start by covering the details of how Disney Cruise costs are calculated between room pricing and cost per person. 

Disney Cruise Room Pricing

All Disney Cruise costs are priced based on two adults in the stateroom (room on the ship). This means that one adult traveling with a child (ages 3-12) is the same price as two adults (13 and up) in the room. Children ages 0-2 pay 50% of the child rate.

After the two adult prices, the third and fourth passengers in the stateroom are charged a lower rate. If you are traveling alone, Disney Cruise Line will charge you 100% of the second adult’s cruise fare (not including port fees and taxes) in addition to the full fare for the first adult.

Pricing Per Adult

It is simply impossible to determine exactly how much a person will pay without looking at several different factors. We are going to break these factors on Disney Cruise cost down for you.

Then, we will help you gauge pricing on a budget to pricing with no limits, and everything in between, so that you have an accurate idea of what you can expect to pay for your Disney Cruise itself. We will also show you a full Disney Cruise Scenario with estimates on what you may need to include for a Disney Cruise. Finally, we detail some ways to save money if you are interested in sailing on a Disney Cruise.

Disney Cruise Savings! Up to $300 Onboard Credit When You Book! Contact our travel sponsor, Get Away Today, and save big on your Disney Cruise. They'll give you up to a $300 onboard cruise credit when you book your trip with them in addition to the discounts they can secure. Request a quote for all the best options for your travel period – Request a FREE quote >

Which Disney Cruise Should I Do?

The first couple of factors to consider when deciding to book a Disney Cruise and cost are where you want to go and what ship you want to sail on.

Disney Cruise Ships

Disney currently has 6 signature cruise ships with more on the way.

The newest cruise ship available right now is the Disney Wish, but the Disney Treasure begins sailing in December of 2024, and it is almost time to start booking!

Each Disney ship is decked out from bow to stern in immersive Disney experiences. The experiences are going to differ depending on the ship, where it is sailing to, and if it is a themed expedition or not.

Ships Sailings

• Disney Magic : Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, Panama Canal
• Disney Wonder : Alaska, Mexico, Caribbean, South Pacific, New Zealand & Australia
• Disney Dream : Caribbean, Bahamas, Europe, Bermuda, Transatlantic Cruises
• Disney Fantasy : Caribbean and Bahamas
• Disney Wish : Bahamas
• Disney Treasure : Caribbean

Disney Cruise Cost Factors

There are a few factors that will impact the cost of a Disney Cruise like time of year, location of the cruise, plus the Disney Cruise ship chosen.

Time of the year

Disney prices their cruises based on peak seasons. The more in-demand the cruise sailings are, the higher the pricing.

The first peak season is the most expensive. Think about when children are out of school, June – August. There is an increase in demand for ships and sailings, so the pricing also goes up. Alaska, and the Caribbean, are usually priced high during this time. Europe and the Panama Canal are usually only offered during these peak seasons.

Holidays are another popular peak season. The Bahamas and the Caribbean are going to be more expensive during these times because families will want shorter cruises, which are offered to these two locations.

Off-season bookings will be cheaper, but keep in mind, that the weather may not be as cooperative depending upon the location you are sailing to.

When choosing locations for your cruise, a cruise to the more remote destination Alaska is going to cost more than sailing to the Bahamas from Florida.

Europe and the Panama Canal are usually only offered in the summer, which can drive up the price of the cruise.

When deciding on what you want out of your cruise, guests can choose from different night lengths.

Disney currently offers cruises in 1-3, 4, 5-6, 7 8-13, or 14+ lengths. The longer you cruise, the more expensive the cruise is going to be because more amenities are included and paid for in the cruise cost.

Specialty Cruises

Disney offers specialty cruises throughout the year. Each of these specialty cruises is going to include extra events, entertainment, dining specialties, and more that are factored into the higher costs.

Guests can book a Pixar Day at Sea, Marvel Day at Sea, Halloween High Seas, and Holiday-themed cruises.

Stateroom type

There are four different types of staterooms guests can book on the cruise ships. A stateroom is the cruise equivalent of your hotel room.

The most luxurious accommodations on the cruise and the most expensive. Each room has a large private verandah (balcony) and premium amenities and services included. Prices for this type of hotel room will be the most expensive out of all rooms on the ship costing upwards of $6,000 for a trip.

The most spacious non-concierge staterooms are in the Verandah category. Each room comes equipped with a private verandah (balcony), some with partial views of the ship and ocean. The space and balcony are worth the price increase if you are sailing on a longer cruise. This category is the second most expensive type of room to choose from and also tends to sell out the quickest. Pricing tends to start around the $3500 total mark for most cruise lengths and destinations. 

The oceanview room has more space than an inside room and also includes a porthole or two to be able to see the ocean. This is a great middle price on the cruise where you can still see the ocean passing by, but you don’t have the balcony to walk out on. This type of room falls in the middle pricing category. The cheapest cruises will come in around $2800 total but can go much higher depending on the length and destination.

The base accommodations feature no outside viewing as the rooms are on the inside of the ship. However, Disney provides a scenic porthole display of different images to make it not feel as claustrophobic. These will be the absolute cheapest rooms due to not having an actual window or balcony. If you want to go on a Disney cruise, but your family is on a strict budget, these rooms will be the cheapest, averaging around the $2,000 – $4,000 range. 

Transportation To Port

By far the biggest factor that will vary for each family going on a Disney cruise is the transportation to the Departing Port.

You will need to provide your own flight, take a train, or drive to the port that you are leaving from. This cost is going to vary widely depending on where you live versus where you need to leave from.

We also recommend arriving the day before the cruise is set to depart so there are no delays in boarding the ship at your arrival time. This is going to cost a night at a nearby hotel, which adds to the overall budget for your cruise.

Disney has ports in the following locations:

• Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Port Canaveral, Florida
• Vancouver, Canada
• Auckland, New Zealand
• Barcelona, Spain
• Honolulu, Hawai’i
• San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Melbourne Australia
• Southampton, England
• Brisbane, Australia
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Sydney, Australia
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
• New York, New York
• San Diego, California
• Galveston, Texas

Certain cruises only depart from specific locations. You can filter this when you are searching to book your cruise.

When planning your destinations for your cruise, it is helpful to know where you are going to sail from. The majority of the Bahamas and Caribbean cruises are going to leave from the two ports in Florida, but they also depart from Texas. The Alaskan cruises sail from Vancouver, Canada.

The cheapest way to book transportation is to filter the cruises by which port is closest to you and see which destinations are available. Or, you can filter by destination and then see which ports are the closest to you to help keep costs down.

Keep in mind that if you drive to the port, this will be an additional cost to park your car at the port as well. The fee will be nightly similar to an airport.

What is Included in the Disney Cruise Cost Base Price?

A big question is what do I get for the price tag I see on the Disney Cruise Line website?

When booking your Disney Cruise, you are not just paying for a hotel room like many other vacations. You are paying for an all-inclusive Disney Experience . For every Disney Cruise booked, you can expect the following accommodations, activities, and amenities.

Room type chosen

Guests can choose from 4 different stateroom types:

• Concierge – Most expensive and most luxurious
• Verandah – Popular and mid-level pricing
• Ocean View – Mid-level pricing
• Inside – Cheapest book and smallest rooms

Three rotational table-service dining restaurants Buffet (for breakfast and lunch) Quick service bites

24-hour room service Unlimited soft serve ice cream Unlimited coffee, tea, and soda available on deck and at table service restaurants

On Ship Activities

Broadway-quality shows (original Disney products or live acts) Fireworks at Sea (available on most itineraries) Character meet and greets Movie screenings (first-run and popular Disney movies) Pools, waterslides, splash zones, and wading pools Gym and fitness center

Kids’ clubs

Disney’s Oceaneer Club (3 to 12 years old) Disneys’ Oceaneer Lab (2 to 12 years old) Edge (11 to 14 years old) Vibe (14 to 17 years old)

What is Not Included in a Disney Cruise?

While Disney Cruises is great at including a lot of amenities in the total trip cost, there are a few extras that you may want while sailing on your ship.

• Port Excursions
• Premium desserts
• Premium coffee (at the Cove cafe)
• Meals at the adult-only Palo and Remy
• Gratuities – can be prepaid
• Wireless Internet Access
• Baby Nursery (6 months -3 years)

All of these items should be considered when pricing out your Disney Cruise so that you do not have any unexpected costs.

Menus for restaurants are available on the Disney Cruise Line Website, so you can see if you want to eat somewhere not included in the base price.

Port Excursions are also booked ahead of time, so you can prepay these items and include them in the final cost of your cruise.

Gratuities Explained

On a cruise ship, it is customary to give gratuities in recognition of exceptional service. Disney recommends a gratuity amount of $14.50 USD per night, per stateroom Guest, including infants and children or $15.50 USD per night, per stateroom Guest for concierge and suites.

Pre-Paid Gratuities are distributed to the Crew Members who take care of you in the following roles:

• Dining room server
• Dining room assistant server
• Dining room head server
• Stateroom host

Easily pre-pay gratuities online to create a carefree, all-inclusive experience by visiting My Reservations in your Disney account and following the prompts for Pre-Paid Gratuities. If you do not pre-pay before boarding the ship, Disney automatically charges your onboard account the suggested gratuity amount. Once on the ship, you can adjust the amount of your Pre-Paid Gratuities by visiting Guest Services prior to the end of your cruise.

Pre-Paid Gratuities do not include the following gratuities, which are either included in the charge or based on your discretion:

• Extras added to rotational dining meals such as alcoholic beverages
• Adult dining locations such as Remy, Palo, Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement, which are not part of rotational dining
• Food or drink in shops and outdoor or poolside eateries
• Room service
• Port Adventures
• Senses Spa & Salon
• Concierge Lounge Team—Guests staying in Concierge accommodations are recommended a gratuity amount of $8.00 per night, per stateroom Guest
• Any other additional services
• An 18% gratuity is automatically added to bar, beverage, wine, deck service tabs and spa services. All gratuities can be charged to your onboard account.

Disney’s Private Islands

When sailing on a Disney Cruise, one of the locations you will visit on your travels during a Bahamian cruise is one of Disney’s Private Island’s Castaway Cay and coming soon Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Castaway Cay is the perfect beach getaway. Amenities on the island include

• A family beach
• Serenity Bay (18+ beach)
• Teen Hideout
• Game Pavilion
• Sports Beach
• Snorkeling Lagoons teeming with sea life
• Water play areas
• Walking trails
• Open-air BBQ dining locations serving complimentary meals
• Free transportation around the island
• Character appearances
• Boat rentals

Disney’s new island, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point will have similar amenities to Castaway Cay! We can’t wait to see what the island holds.

Breakdown of Pricing

This section of our article is going to take a look at the specific pricing of specific cruises to help estimate Disney Cruise cost. The three most popular Disney Destinations are the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Alaska, so that is what pricing we are going to focus on.

Disney Cruise On a Budget

If you really want to go on a Disney Cruise and stick to a budget, the 3-night and 4-night cruises are going to be the best option. Depending on how far from your destination you are traveling, the amount of time on the ship versus in a port will vary. The Bahamas destinations are going to offer more time in ports where Caribbean cruises will be more time on the boat.

The cheapest room option on a cruise is always the interior room. However, these rooms don’t have actual windows and can make a very tight space for a family of four, which we are basing all of our pricing on. If possible, spring for at least an Oceanview room where you are guaranteed at least one actual window.

Another way to stay on budget is to adjust the dates. In the tables below, you will see different dates and different ships will provide cheaper options. Cruises during February, August, and September tend to be cheaper, similarly to a Walt Disney World Vacation, whereas cruises during holiday seasons (Spring Break, Christmas, New Years, Halloween, etc.) are going to be more expensive.

3- Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

• 4 Guests – 2 adults, 2 children
• Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point & Nassau, Bahamas

4 – Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

• Disney Castaway Cay & Nassau, Bahamas

4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

• Sailing to Progreso, Mexico

4- Night Western Caribbean Cruise from New Orleans

• Sailing to Cozumel, Mexico

5- Night Western Caribbean Cruise from New Orleans

• Sailing to Cozumel, Mexico & Progreso, Mexico

The cheapest Alaskan cruise is about the price of the Concierge Level for other Disney Cruises.

7 – Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

• Sailing to Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska; Skagway, Alaska; Juneau, Alaska; Ketchikan, Alaska

Mid-Range Disney Cruise Pricing

A 5 – 6 day cruise is a great mid-price range budget. Typically with these cruises you will have enough time to explore the ship while also getting at least two, if not three days in a port of call to explore your destination.

For the longer 5-6 day cruises, we recommend the oceanview or verandah rooms. To keep the budget down and get to experience more for your money, avoid booking the concierge rooms at these middle price points.

Another great way to spend your money is to book one of the themed cruises. Guests can book the Marvel Day at Sea, a Halloween Cruise, or a Merry Christmas Cruise. The prices are going to be higher for these themed cruises even if they are only 5-6 days long, but you get a lot more special activities.

5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

5- Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

• 4 guests – 2 adults, 2 children
• Sails to George Town, Grand Cayman & Disney Castaway Cay

No Restrictive Budget Pricing

The longer cruise you book, the more ports you can stop at and the greater chance you have to stretch your days at sea to fully explore all that the ship has to offer.

The longer the cruise, guests can also experience more themed Disney nights and formal nights as well. This can make the cruise an extra special vacation due to all of the extra magic you are receiving.

Our recommendation for rooms on a cruise any longer than 5 days is to book at least a verandah room if not the concierge rooms. This is going to provide the most space for the times when you need to escape from the hustle and bustle of the ship.

In addition to the longer cruise, specialty cruises can also be booked during peak times if you don’t have an incredibly restrictive budget.

7 Night Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Inaugural Cruise from Port Canaveral

• 4 Guests, 2 adults, 2 children
• Sailing to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point; Nassau, Bahamas; Disney Castaway Cay; Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, 2 Days at Sea

7 – Night Western Caribbean Cruise from New Orleans

• Sails to Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman & Falmouth, Jamaica

7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral (Pixar Day at Sea)

• Sailing to Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Falmouth, Jamaica; & Disney Castaway Cay

7 Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• Sailing to Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; & Disney Castaway Cay

10 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral

• 4 Guests, 2 adults & 2 Children
• Sailing to St. John's, Antigua; Castries, St. Lucia; Roseau, Dominica; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point; & Disney Castaway Cay

9- Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

• 4 guests, 2 adults & 2 children
• Sailing to Ketchikan, Alaska; Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska; Juneau, Alaska; Icy Strait Point, Alaska; Sitka, Alaska; Victoria (British Columbia), Canada

Sample Disney Cruise Pricing

With so many options, numbers, and things included, it can be difficult to tell what a cruise actually costs.

This section is going to show a sample scenario to give you a better idea of what a cruise would actually cost your family.

Cruise Picked: 4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Destinations: Disney Castaway Cay & Nassau, Bahamas

Dates: May 13-17, 2024

Ship: Disney Magic

Guests: 2 Adults, 2 Children (ages 6 & 3)

Stateroom Type: Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom

Deck: Forward, Deck 5 Room: 5018

Total Stateroom Price: 4,011.72

Ship Highlights

Entertainment.

• Live Shows: Tangled: The Musical, Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic, Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story
• Fireworks at Sea
• First Run Movies
• Character Greetings
• Daily Activities – karaoke, game shows, bingo

Main Dining

• Animator’s Palate – Unique Dinner show starring Disney characters
• Lumiere’s – American and French Cuisine
• Rapunzel’s Royal Table

• Duck-In Diner
• Pinocchio’s Pizza
• 24 hour room service
• Palo (Adult Only Restaurant) – extra cost

Recreation Kids

• Marvel Super Hero Academy – Disney Oceaneer Club
• Edge – club for tweens
• Vobe – club for teens
• Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique – extra cost
• Pools: AquaLab, Goofy’s Pool, Nephew’s Splashzone, AquaDunk

Recreation Adults

• Keys- nightclub with live music
• Fathoms – late night dancing
• Quiet Cove Pool
• Full-service Gym
• Senses Spa and Salon – extra cost

Extra Costs on Ship & Ports

• Alcohol Gratuities: $14.50/ per night/ per person
• WiFi: $16-$42/ day
• Castaway Cay Rentals : Snorkel Gear, Floats, Rafts, Bicycles, Kayak, Paddle Boat

Extra Costs Outside of Cruise

• Hotel Room in Fort Lauderdale: $180-$230
• Parking at Port : $20/ per day

For the oceanview cruise stateroom, gratuities, hotel, parking, and WiFi, you would pay $4,621.72.

Disney Cruise Line Discounts

Disney cruises can be expensive, but there are ways to save money.

The best way to save money is to book as soon as you know when you want to sail.

Cruises price rooms by tiers – the earlier you book, the lower the cost.

Special Pricing

Sometimes Disney will offer special pricing for Florida residents, military personnel, travel agents, and cast members.

They may also offer Kids Sail Free to families with children.

Travel Agencies can also offer promotions if you book through them in the form of Shipboard Credit. While on the ship, you can use this credit for spa treatments, merchandise, photos, and more. Be aware these credits expire at the end of your cruise.

Final Thoughts

A Disney Cruise is an exceptionally personal vacation that allows your family to customize the trip that fits what you want and need. With each ship featuring new shows, themed restaurants, amazing kid areas, and specialty adult-only sections, there is a multitude of opportunities that a Disney Cruise ship offers for a vacation – not to mention the amazing destinations. 

Unfortunately, because Disney provides so many different ships and opportunities, it is difficult to narrow down the exact price that a cruise will cost your family. One thing for sure is that you can't put a price on the magical memories that will be made on your Disney Cruise vacation. 

Plan Your Next Disney Vacation!

Are you ready to plan your Disney Parks or Disney Cruise Vacation? Make sure you are subscribed to our FREE newsletter for up-to-date planning information, exclusive offers and deals, and news about your upcoming trip! For now, also make sure to check out our other related articles!

• Disney Cruises 2025 DATES & Guide – Start Planning Your Sailing Now!
• 2023 Disney Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Pack & What Not to Bring
• Disney Cruise Line Christmas Entertainment and 2024 Itineraries
• Your First Disney Cruise: Top Ten Tips to Enjoy a High Sea Adventure with Disney Magic
• Disney Cruise Line Shares New Announcements Regarding Future Growth

The cost of a Disney Cruise varies depending on the time of year, the Disney Cruise ship, and location.

Yes, only alcohol and some adult only dining experiences are not included.

Yes, all your meals are included in the cost of your cruise!

Kids are charged a cheaper child rate on Disney cruises.

Disclosure: We have used all the products recommended on Mickey Visit. We may receive compensation when you click on links to some products featured.

About Jessica Miller

Jessica is a full-time high school teacher and a part-time writer. She is also a full-time mom! When she isn't working, she loves to take vacations with her family to Disney.

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Table of Contents

About Disney Cruise Line cruises

Disney cruise line prices, disney cruise line loyalty program: castaway club, what is the best disney cruise line ship.

Disney has a massive global footprint across its theme parks, films and merchandise. And it doesn’t stop there. Among its many offerings is the Disney Cruise Line, whose fleet of five ships sails all over the world.

Family-friendly but with adults-only areas, Disney cruises offer some of the most comprehensive cruise options around. Let’s break down everything there is to know about the Disney Cruise Line, including pricing, destinations and its loyalty program.

You can always expect some magic from Disney, and there is no exception when sailing on Disney Cruise Line. Although its fleet is small, it offers a high-end, family-friendly experience for guests. Here’s a quick overview of Disney Cruise Line’s key features.

Cabin types: Disney Cruise Line offers all the usual cabin types, including inside, oceanview, verandah and concierge-level rooms . Disney Cruise Line’s cabins are larger than average and designed for families, with split bathrooms and privacy curtains. Their largest rooms can accommodate up to seven guests. 

Main U.S. routes: Disney has several departure points from within the United States, including options from San Diego, New York City, Miami, and Galveston, Texas. However, its most frequent departures are from Port Canaveral in Brevard County, Florida, to the Bahamas and the Caribbean or from Vancouver, British Columbia to Alaska.

Loyalty program: Disney Cruise Line offers the Castaway Club to repeat guests. It has four membership levels — Silver, Gold, Platinum and Pearl. The first level is earned by completing a single cruise. 

» Learn more: Disney Cruise Review — Mickey at Sea Gets an A+

Disney Cruise Line destinations

Although Disney currently operates only five ships, the cruise line still manages to cover most of the world. Here are the locations you can currently sail on a Disney cruise:

New Zealand.

Pacific Coast. 

Panama Canal.

South Pacific. 

Transatlantic. 

Cruises are available in a variety of lengths, from three nights up to 15 nights.

Disney cruises tend to be more expensive than the average cruise. Currently, for example, the cheapest cruise departing from Port Canaveral is a three-night trip to the Bahamas, which costs $1,958 for two guests.

And you’ll pay more to take a "special occasion" Disney cruise. The same three-night Bahamas cruise sailing during Disney's Silver Anniversary at Sea starts at $2,345 for two guests.

When it comes to timing, standard logic applies. The high season will cost more, especially during holidays and the summer break.

The cheapest rate we found — the previously-mentioned $1,958 — is for a cruise in late January, a time when those with school-aged children might have trouble getting away. Meanwhile, the most expensive period for this cruise takes place over the Christmas holiday and rings in at $3,737 for an inside stateroom.

For all destinations, if you’d like to save money, avoid peak periods and search all available dates to find the lowest rates . This is true even on less popular cruises, such as those sailing up to Alaska .

The cheapest cost for two guests to Alaska from Vancouver is $2,983 in mid-September, while the same cruise will cost you $4,607 if you sail over the Fourth of July holiday.

One-way positioning cruises — that is, those that end in a different location from where they started — are often much cheaper per night than standard round-trip cruises.

What’s included

Disney cruises are more inclusive than most cruises. You don’t, for example, need to pay extra for soft drinks on a Disney cruise like you would on Norwegian Cruise Line . You’re also entitled to complimentary room service 24/7, unlike on Virgin Voyages, where you'll be charged a $5 fee for each delivery.

Here are more inclusions you can expect.

Live, high-quality entertainment.

Large staterooms (designed for parties of up to three guests).

Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay (on most Bahamas and Caribbean cruises).

Upscale restaurants, quick-service dining, poolside snacks and room service.

Adults-only lounges and pool areas.

Waterslides (on some ships).

» Learn more: How much does a Disney cruise cost?

Disney isn’t known for its loyalty programs. For example, there is no frequent traveler program associated with staying at one of its resorts or frequenting its parks. However, Disney Cruise Line rewards repeat customers with various benefits, including a complimentary specialty dinner, free photo downloads and an exclusive terminal check-in area.

Castaway Club levels

The Castaway Club levels are Silver, Gold, Platinum and Pearl.

How to earn : Sail on one cruise.

Best benefits : Book cruises one day before the general public, online activity planning 90 days before sailing, check in 33 days early, exclusive terminal check-in.

How to earn : Sail on five to nine cruises.

Best benefits : Book cruises two days before the general public, online activity planning 105 days before sailing, check in 35 days early, onboard reception, special discounts. 

How to earn : Sail on 10 to 24 cruises.

Best benefits : Book cruises three days before the general public, online activity planning 120 days before sailing, check in 38 days early, complimentary specialty dinner.

How to earn : Sail on 25+ cruises. 

Best benefits : Book cruises four days before the general public, online activity planning 123 days before sailing, check in 40 days early, complimentary unlimited digital photo package. 

» Learn more: Which is cheaper, Disney World or a Disney cruise?

The Disney Wish is the newest Disney Cruise Line ship and certainly its best. It just launched in the summer of 2022. Among its many amenities, guests can find the first-ever Disney attraction at sea. It’s a 760-foot water slide filled with show scenes, lighting, music and more that touches down into a lazy river.

The Disney Wish also has dedicated areas themed for "Frozen," the Marvel Universe and "Star Wars."

In addition, the Disney Wish has all the regular amenities you’d expect on a Disney cruise, including live entertainment, pools and spacious staterooms.

Disney Cruise Line does not offer free Wi-Fi. Instead, it has three levels of packages from which to choose:

Stay Connected: $10 per day for the entire cruise or $12 per day for a 24-hour period.

Basic Surf: $20 per day for the entire cruise or $24 per day for a 24-hour period.

Premium Surf: $30 per day for the entire cruise or $36 per day for a 24-hour period.

These packages are available on the Disney Wish, Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream. The Disney Wonder still operates on the old data-usage Wi-Fi packages.

Most of your daily expenses, including your food and non-alcoholic beverages, are included when sailing on a Disney cruise. However, if you’d like specialty drinks or alcohol, you’ll need to pay extra. Gratuities are not included, and Disney Cruise Line's recommended tip is a minimum of $14.50 per guest, per night.

Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer the standard drink package other cruise lines offer. Drink packages allow you to pay a flat-rate price and drink as much alcohol as you’d like.

Instead, you’ll either pay per drink or purchase bundled quantities onboard. It’s also possible to purchase a specialty beer mug at the pub onboard, which can then be refilled across the ship. Much like Disney’s popcorn buckets, your beer mugs entitle you to cheaper refills on all your beer.

In the past, Disney Cruise Line required that you be vaccinated or tested for COVID-19 before sailing, but this is no longer the case. Guests departing from the United States are not required to do either, though the cruise line highly encourages you to get vaccinated before sailing.

Most of your daily expenses, including your food and non-alcoholic beverages, are included when sailing on a Disney cruise. However, if you’d like specialty drinks or alcohol, you’ll need to pay extra. Gratuities are not included, and

Disney Cruise Line's recommended tip

is a minimum of $14.50 per guest, per night.

(Top photo courtesy of Disney Cruise Line)

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Disney cruise prices: how much will your trip cost.

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Disney Cruise Line offers a fantastic experience for families and couples alike, bringing them to exciting destinations around the world with Disney magic at every turn. While cruises are a great way to escape everyday life, it’s important to prepare your wallet for the expense of this kind of trip.

Knowing the full range of costs associated with a Disney cruise vacation is essential to spending wisely while still getting the most out of your vacation. Find out the different factors that contribute to Disney cruise prices and other considerations for your cruise vacation.

Key takeaways

How much does a disney cruise cost, factors affecting disney cruise prices, disney cruise price breakdown, tips for saving on disney cruise costs, bottom line.

• The average Disney cruise price starts around $800 to $1,600 per person for a 1- to 3-night Disney cruise in an inside room.
• Length of trip, ports of departure and arrival, and travel dates all affect pricing.
• While a Disney cruise may be more expensive than other cruise options, it offers unique onboard experiences.
• Disney cruises are an ideal option for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a magical and family-friendly travel experience.

Disney Cruise Line’s fleet includes the following five luxury ships:

The above price ranges put the average cost for a 1- to 3-night Disney cruise in an inside cabin between $800 and $1,600 per person. If time on the ocean is important to you, Disney Fantasy cruise costs start at $1,500 to $2,400 per person for a 5- to 6-night cruise.

However, your final Disney cruise price will vary depending on the cruise ship, length of cruise, port, destination, and time of year. Opting for a more expensive room, such as Oceanview, Verandah, or Concierge, will cost you extra money, ranging from a few hundred dollars to more than twice the price.

Additionally, the longer you cruise for, the lower your price per person, per night will be. However, your overall price may be much higher, as is the case for a 14-night Panama Canal cruise that costs over $17,000 for two guests.

Itinerary and destination

Cruise length and the destination impact price in a big way. For instance, long voyages to exotic locations cost more than short trips to nearby ports. Prices are also affected by specific port cities.

Time of year

If you want to save money on your cruise , consider traveling on Disney cruise ships during off-peak times. During peak seasons, such as summer months and holidays, prices tend to be higher compared to off-peak times. Themed and holiday cruises may also cost more than standard cruises.

Some locations have their own peak vacation season, depending on the weather in the region. It is a good idea to research prices for various times of the year to see how the dates you’re cruising will impact the price.

Room and amenities

The location and size of your room is a significant factor that affects the overall pricing of your cruise. For Disney cruises, Concierge (suite) staterooms are the most expensive options, as they come with a private veranda. Basic Inside staterooms with no sea view and just a porthole mirror are the cheapest options.

Disney cruises typically include onboard experiences, such as live shows and character meet-and-greets, and access to amenities like pools. However, some activities, like excursions, may be charged separately.

The following are included in the price of your Disney cruise trip:

• Stateroom fee
• All applicable taxes and port fees
• Three meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner + soft drinks for each meal
• Snacks and ice cream
• Access to entertainment: Disney character meet-and-greets, live shows, Disney film showings, etc.

The vacation fare excludes shore excursions (called Port Adventures), gratuities, airfare, personal expenses ashore in the ports of call, ground and baggage transfers, and other items not specified in your itinerary.

Some onboard activities require additional charges, such as spa and salon services, excursions, babysitting services, onboard photography, and alcoholic beverages. There may also be extra baggage fees, since Disney ships allow only up to two bags per person.

Sample Cruise Pricing

Let’s say you want to plan a Disney cruise for two adults from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to the Bahamas. A 3-night cruise will cost you from $1,600 to $5,600. Opting for a cruise during peak season in June will cost the most, as will purchasing a Concierge suite room.

The cheapest option is to sail in September (which is during hurricane season and, therefore, off-peak for the Caribbean islands) in an Inside room. However, it costs only about $100 more to upgrade to an Oceanview room.

There are several ways you can save on costs for your Disney cruise trip. Some tips include:

• Book during the off-season: Research the peak and off-season of your chosen destination. For Bahamas and Caribbean cruises, you may want to reconsider sail dates during the summer months when these locations are more expensive and crowded.
• Monitor prices: Disney cruise prices can fluctuate depending on demand. It pays to be patient and to monitor prices regularly until you get the best deal. More affordable tickets may sell out quickly, especially if you book last minute or during peak seasons.
• Use a travel agent: A travel agent can help you find great deals on Disney cruises. They may be able to provide insider information and tips, as well as access to tickets at discounted prices. They could also help you plan a more comprehensive Disney vacation with time at Disney World as well as a cruise. Disney Cruise Line has a network of travel agents to help you plan your trip.
• Skip specialty dining : Palo (on all Disney ships) offers adults-only dining, but it also costs $45 per guest, not including gratuities. Remy is an adults-only restaurant on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, and dinner is $125 per person. Brunch is $75, and a dessert experience is $60 per person.
• Look for promotions and deals: Disney Cruise Line has special offers for pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations, air travel, packages for weddings and honeymoons, Florida residents, and more. Other travel websites, like Expedia, have Disney cruise packages that include hotel accommodations and airfare.
• Leverage your travel credit card: You could also save money on travel by using credit card points and miles. Check out the best travel credit cards to reduce the price of getting to and from your cruise port.

How much does a Disney cruise cost for a family of 4?

A family of four could spend approximately $3,200 to $6,400 for a 3-night Disney cruise in an inside room. This is based on a daily average cost of $800 and $1,600 per person for short Disney cruises. The cost of a cruise per person can vary significantly and is dependent on the travel dates, ports of departure and arrival, and room type.

How many days does a Disney cruise last?

The lengths of Disney cruises range from 1 to 14 or more days.

Is it cheaper to go on a Disney cruise than other cruise lines?

Disney Cruise Line is more expensive than competitor cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line. However, Disney offers unique family-friendly amenities, activities, entertainment, and experiences that you won’t be able to find on other cruises, especially when you’re traveling with children.

Disney Cruise Line is among the most popular cruise lines, but it’s not exactly the cheapest. However, if you’re looking for a unique vacation experience with your family, a Disney cruise may be worth the added expense.

There are several ways you can save on your Disney cruise, such as comparing rates for different times of year and destinations. Be sure to compare credit cards and cruise packages to ensure you get the best deal before booking your Disney Cruise vacation.

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How Much is a Disney Cruise for a Family of 4?

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How much does a Disney cruise cost for a family of 4?

If you are thinking of sailing on a Disney cruise with your family it is important to know whether or not this is going to fit into your budget. And what factors will influence the cost of your cruise.

The cost of a Disney cruise depends upon:

• How many people sail
• Which Disney ship you choose
• Your choice of stateroom
• The date that you sail
• How many days you sail

Taking all of these things into account let’s have a look at some different options for a family of 4 wanting to sail on a Disney cruise with budgets of:

The other thing that we actually have to think about is what these costs include.

Here I am only showing the cost for the cruise.

That includes accommodation for 2 adults and 2 children in the stateroom shown. Taxes and port fees are included.

All prices shown are up to date on 3 February, 2024 and the lowest possible cost for each stateroom category is shown.

There are of course other costs involved with sailing on a Disney cruise, such as transportation to the port, travel insurance, gratuities, port excursions, onboard activities, souvenirs.

If you want to find out what is included go to:

What is Included on a Disney Cruise and What is Extra

For an explanation of how tipping works here is a guide:

Disney Cruise Tipping – What You Need to Know

What Does a $3,000 Budget Get a Family of 4?

I have to admit that when I was writing this I was surprised at what is not within this budget. I could not find a Disney Wish sailing for a family of 4 for $3,000 or under. Even the 3 night sailings were at least 10% over this budget.

And it is pretty difficult to find options for this price point, unless you go a little over budget.

Disney Wonder Baja Cruise

It is not quite possible to sail on a 3 night Disney cruise from San Diego unless you go a little over that $3,000 budget.

One cruise that you probably are not going to ever get within this $3,000 is a Disney Alaskan Cruise.

However, if you want to take a repositioning cruise from Vancouver to San Diego for 4 nights you can still come in slightly under budget.

Disney Magic

There are plenty of options within the $3,000 budget for Disney Magic sailings from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

These prices are for 3 night sailings with a port stop at Lighthouse Point, Disney’s new Private Island.

If you go a little over budget you can sail on a 3 night cruise from Fort Lauderdale on Disney Dream with a port stop at Lighthouse Point.

Disney Cruise from Galveston

You are going to have to stretch that budget a little as well if you want to sail on a 4 night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston on Disney Magic.

Cruises from Australia

Disney Wonder embarked on a new adventure to Australia and New Zealand starting in 2023.

If you are a family of 4 there are a number of options for short sailings that will get you a Disney cruise with a budget of $3,000.

The lowest priced Disney cruise for a family of 4 that we could find is a 2 night sailing from Aukland, New Zealand.

There is also a 2 night sailing from Melbourne that is under budget.

For this 2 night sailing from Sydney you can even get a Verandah stateroom for $19 over budget.

However, these prices are for 2 night cruises which we really do not recommend unless this really is your only option. You only get one full day on the ship, and a lot of time is spent in embarking and disembarking. So whilst these cruises will get you a cruise under budget, you do have to be aware that they are limited.

There are some 3 night cruises on Disney Wonder that will still meet your $3,000 budget.

These 3 night cruises from Melbourne are available:

3 night cruises from Brisbane are also available.

$5,000 Budget

We have seen that with a $3,000 budget you can sail on a Disney cruise with a family of 4, but your options are limited.

If you have $5,000 you have a lot more choices.

Including Disney’s newest ship Disney Wish. She sails 3 and 4 night itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida. All sailings have a scheduled port stop at Disney’s private island Castaway Cay.

You will be able to find a 3 night cruise that fits within this budget, but a 4 night is going to be difficult to snag.

Here are some dates that $5,000 will get you a 4 night Disney Wish cruise:

The 3 night Disney Wish cruises will certainly be an option for that $5,000. I even found one which will get you a Concierge Stateroom!

Disney Fantasy with Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

Your $5,000 will even get you to Disney’s new private island which will debut in June 2024.

A 4 night sailing on Disney Fantasy is within budget.

You can even get a Verandah stateroom and have some change to spare.

Sailings from San Diego

You have a number of options from San Diego on Disney Wonder.

You can even book a 7 night Mexican Riviera cruise from San Diego. However, one thing that we would say about this is that this is relatively late availability and so the under budget rate is for a Guarantee Stateroom. This can be a great way to save money, but you will not have a choice of which stateroom in that category you get – Disney will choose that for you.

Cruise from Galveston

Your budget will stretch to a 6 night cruise from Galveston on select dates. This includes port stops in Grand Cayman and Cozumel.

European Cruises

A European cruise is on many people’s bucket list – but is it possible within this budget for a family of 4?

I found one cruise from Southampton which is a 3 night cruise to Belgium. A verandah stateroom is available for your budget, but this is the only European cruise I could find.

Australia and New Zealand

There are lots of options here. Many of the 2, 3 and 4 night cruises will be within budget.

The longest cruise I found in this category is a 5 night Cruise from Melbourne ending in Aukland. This will even get your change from $5,000 – but you will probably need to use that for the higher costs of getting to one or both ports as this is a repositioning cruise.

$10,000 BUDGET

Obviously this opens up a lot of options for your party of 5.

Let’s look at some of the cruises and staterooms this higher cost will make available.

Alaska Cruises

Those Alaska cruises that your $5,000 just couldn’t get you on, become possible when you double your budget! But for most dates it still won’t get you a Verandah stateroom for 4.

I found a couple of dates in 2024 that will get you that coveted balcony.

This much larger budget finally gives you a lot of options for a cruise in Europe.

If you are looking for one of the best values on a per night basis, and have a lot of time to spare, a Transatlantic cruise is always one to look at.

This 13 night cruise from Southampton to Fort Lauderdale will even givve you change from $10,000 for a verandah stateroom for 4.

If this doesn’t fit in with your plans, what about a 7 Night Mediterranean cruise from Rome with port stops in Santorini, Mykonos, Chania and Naples. You can just squeeze in under budget for this one.

Just look at the price of the Royal Suite!

You can also sail on a 7 night cruise from Southampton and have some money left over even if you book a balcony stateroom on Disney Dream

Disney Treasure

A $10,000 budget is your entry point for your family of 4 sailing on the new Disney Treasure Cruise ship which is set to launch in December 2024.

She will be sailing 7 night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Here are some sample prices:

Final Thoughts

This gives you an overview of just how much a Disney cruise costs for a family of 4 and the different choices that increasing your budget will give you.

I have been following and writing about the costs of Disney cruises for over a decade now. And over the last few years, with the exception of those “bargain” days immediately after the pandemic, the prices have definitely been going up. And going up pretty quickly.

The best time to book is generally still as close to opening day as you can get. I know there are some exceptions when guarantee staterooms become available closer to sail dates, but these can’t be relied upon. And if you want a specific sail date and stateroom then still the best way to save is to book as early as you can.

Remember that there are other ways to save on Disney cruises which could mean that more possibilities come within your budget.

Here are some resources to help you save:

Disney Cruise First Timer Money Mistakes to Avoid

The Easiest Way to Save Money on a Disney Cruise

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

Comparing Disney Cruise Cost Per Person and Prices of Each Ship

Jul 21, 2023 | Disney | 0 comments

The cost of a Disney Cruise varies depending on the size and composition of each family. In our case, as a family of four (two adults and two kids), we have considered a specific price. This all-inclusive package encompasses everything necessary for the cruise experience, and in certain itineraries, it even includes shore excursions and adult beverages.

Everyone dreams about experiencing a magical Disney Cruise Vacation! But how much does a Disney Cruise Cost? The answer depends on the type of Disney cruise ship, the distance of your trip, and the time of year. Prices start at around 800 to $1,000 per person for shorter adventure cruises and can exceed $6,500 per person for longer trips with multiple ports of call.

Additionally, as we mentioned before costs may include luxury staterooms, excursions, meals, and drinks so keep reading and learn more about Disney cruise ships for first-timers including the Disney Treasure Ship

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The Logistics Cost of a Disney Cruise?

When planning your cruise it is important to research all of the available options and find the best deal for you and your family. Booking in advance usually saves money on a Disney Cruise vacation . When looking at pricing, remember to factor in additional costs such as taxes and fees, tips for the crew, and any shore excursions you plan to take.

Finally, don’t forget about all the wonderful benefits that come with a Disney Cruise. From incredible entertainment to delicious dining experiences, you will have plenty of memories to last long after you disembark from your magical voyage!

If you’re considering booking your first Disney Cruise, you’ve come to the right place! Our knowledgeable Variety team is here to assist you, guiding you in Spanish to ensure you make the most of your vacation experience. Let us help you create unforgettable memories!

Where Does Disney Cruise Sail?

Disney Cruise Line offers cruises to all sorts of destinations, such as the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Europe, and beyond. Each destination has its unique character and attractions.

When it comes to cost, the price of a Disney cruise varies depending on the type of voyage, length of trip, and time of year. Generally speaking, shorter cruises tend to be more economical at around 800 to $1,000 per person. Longer trips to multiple ports can cost up to $6,500 per person or more. In addition, luxury staterooms of 22,000 average price, excursions, meals, and drinks can add substantially to the total cost of the cruise.

When planning a Disney Cruise vacation, it is important to make your research all of the available options and find the best deal. Booking in advance can often save money on cruise packages, so it is wise to plan. Be sure to compare prices across all of the destinations to get the highest value for your dollar.

By taking into account all of these factors, a Disney Cruise vacation can be an unforgettable experience for you and your family without breaking the bank.

How Much Will a Disney Cruise Price In the Future? 

We analyzed the average cost of a Disney Cruise for our own family of 4 on various itineraries, taking into account all taxes and cabin types: inside, oceanview, and verandah.

Please note that the concierge level is not included in this analysis. The prices for the inside to verandah cabins are relatively similar. Once we review the costs, we will explain how to obtain the greatest value for your money.

Typically, the cost of a Disney Cruise increases annually. However, in 2024, we anticipate that prices will remain stable, except for the new Disney cruise. The Disney Treasure Ship 2024. Additionally, keep an eye out for more promotional deals aimed at encouraging individuals to return to cruising.

The Different Disney Cruise Ships

Disney provides a wide array of travel options, boasting a fleet of five ships that includes the upcoming Disney Treasure and Disney Adventure Cruise ships. Among their latest additions is the highly anticipated Disney Wish, set to embark on its maiden voyage in June 2022. This magnificent vessel has garnered significant attention for its opulent design and captivating features. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey with Disney!

According to the search results, you will find found 7 Disney cruise lines, here are some of the most popular destinations of each Disney cruise ship:

Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy: These ships offer various itineraries to destinations in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, including stops at popular ports such as Nassau, Castaway Cay, and Cozumel.

Wonder Cruise Ship: This ship offers itineraries to destinations in Alaska, including ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, where passengers can experience the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.

Disney C ruise Magic: Disney Magic sails to various destinations around the world, including Europe, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the British Isles. Guests can explore cities like Barcelona, Rome, and Copenhagen, as well as visit iconic landmarks and cultural sites.

Disney Wish (New ship): The Disney Wish will feature itineraries to the Bahamas, with stops at popular ports like Nassau and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

Disney Treasure: For those who are willing to exercise a little patience, there’s an enticing option to consider. Delaying your Disney Treasure cruise until May 2025 allows you to embark on this extraordinary adventure at a significantly reduced cost. Starting at just $3,944, two adults can indulge in this unforgettable experience for less than half the original price.

Disney Adventure Cruise Ship: The announcement of the new ship’s name Disney Adventure perfectly aligns with the vessel’s essence, reflecting the same “adventurous spirit” evoked by the highly anticipated Disney Treasure. Undoubtedly, when Disney Adventure makes its debut in 2025, it will offer unparalleled adventures and ignite the explorer’s spirit among its passengers.

Disney Wish Cruise Prices:

For a Family of 4, a 3-night sailing will be around $3,000 – $5,000 per sailing which comes to about  $250-$450 per person.  The 4-night cruise is typically a better deal as it sails during the week. For 4 nights the pricing for 4 people is $3,400 – $6,600, which comes to  $212 – $412 per person.

Please note that these destinations may vary depending on the specific cruise itinerary, season, and availability. It’s always best to check with Disney Cruise Line directly for the most up-to-date information on their cruise destinations.

> Learn More about The Best Overall Disney Cruise ships

How Much Does the Disney Wish Cost Per Person?

The Disney Wish, the latest addition to the Disney Cruise Line fleet, stands out as one of the largest and most opulent ships. Departing from Port Canaveral, it embarks on memorable 4-night voyages to Nassau, Bahamas, with a delightful stop at the breathtaking Castaway Cay. The cost of a Disney Wish cruise per person ranges from $900 to $3,500, depending on the aforementioned factors.

Disney Cruise Prices by Destination

Embark on a truly magical experience aboard the Disney Wish! Discover the enchantment of a 3-night Bahamian cruise from Port Canaveral, starting at just $1,800 per person for an interior cabin. For those seeking a longer adventure, indulge in a 7-night Caribbean cruise. Prices for the same cabin type can exceed $3,500 per person.

Imagine setting sail to breathtaking destinations like Castaway Cay and Nassau. In 2024, 3-night sailings range from $977.5 to $1,494 per person.

Join us on this unforgettable journey and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

• 4-Night Bahamian Cruise – $1,420 per person
• 3-Night Bahamian Cruise – $1,200 per person

Disney Cruise Price by Cabin Type

Prices at Disney Wish start at approximately $900 per person for a 3-night cruise in an interior cabin. For those seeking a more luxurious stay, indulge in a concierge-level cabin starting at $3,500 per person. As an example, embark on a captivating voyage to the beautiful Bahamas and Castaway Cay from September 30th to October 4th, 2024, and discover the following per person costs:

• Inside  – $2,591 per person
• Oceanview  – $2,743 per person
• Verandah  – $3,023 per person
• Concierge  – $5,903 per person

Disney Magic Price Per Person?

Experience the magic of the first-ever Disney Cruise Ship, the Disney Magic. Despite its smaller size, this enchanting vessel boasts 11 decks and 875 cabins for an unforgettable journey.

Embark on the Disney Magic to explore the stunning Western and Eastern Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, and more. The cost per person for a Disney Magic cruise can range from $700 to $2,500, depending on various factors.

Disney Cruise Costs by Destination

Experience the enchantment of the Disney Magic with a 4-night Bahamian cruise from Miami, starting at approximately $1,200 per person for an interior cabin.

Alternatively, indulge in a 7-night Mexican Riviera Cruise, where the same cabin type can reach prices of $2,600 per person. Looking ahead to 2024, the following Inside Room cruises on the Disney Magic are set to begin at:

• 3-Night Bahamian Cruise – $732 per person (Sailing November 2024)
• 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise – $1,144 per person (Sailing December 2024)
• 7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise – $1523 per person (Sailing April 2024)

Disney Cruise Costs by Cabin Type

Experience the enchantment of the Disney Magic with a variety of cabin options to suit your preferences. Interior cabins start at approximately $700 per person for a 4-night cruise, while the indulgence of a concierge-level cabin begins at $2,500 per person. Let’s take a glimpse into the future: in July 2024, embark on a 4-night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale and immerse yourself in the wonder and magic that awaits.

• Inside  – $1465 per person
• Oceanview  – $1625 per person
• Verandah  – $1989 per person
• Concierge  – $4017 per person

Disney Dream Cost Per Person

Experience the perfect blend of timeless Disney charm and modern luxuries aboard the magnificent Disney Dream. As one of the largest ships in the Disney Cruise Fleet, spanning 14 passenger decks and accommodating up to 4,000 guests, the Disney Dream takes you on unforgettable voyages to enchanting destinations like the Bahamas, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Europe, and beyond!

Indulge in the magic of a Disney Dream cruise, with prices ranging from $800 to $3,000 per person, depending on the aforementioned factors.

Disney Cruises by Destination

Experience the magic of the Disney Dream with a 3-night Bahamian cruise from Port Canaveral, starting at approximately $1,500 per person for an interior cabin. However, if you’re seeking a longer adventure, a 7-night Caribbean cruise may be your choice, albeit with a higher cost of around $3,000 per person for the same cabin type.

For instance, consider these sailings on the Disney Dream in 2024, offering Inside Rooms starting at:

• 4-Night Bahamian Cruise – $1249 per person (Sailing November 2024)
• 4-Night Spain Cruise – $1385 per person (Sailing August 2024)
• 5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise – $1525 per person (Sailing April 2024)
• 7-Night Mediterranean Cruise – $3,307 per person (Sailing June 2024)

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Prices by cabin type.

On the Disney Dream, a 3-night cruise in an interior cabin starts at approximately $800 per person. However, for a more luxurious experience, you may choose a concierge-level cabin, which can begin at $3,000 per person.

As an illustration, let’s consider the cost of a 7-night British Isles Cruise across four different room types:

• Inside  – $2,221 per person
• Oceanview  – $2389 per person
• Verandah  – $2634 per person
• Concierge  – $8094 per person

Disney Fantasy Price Per Person

Experience a world of unique adventures aboard the Disney Fantasy. From immersive Star Wars and Marvel-themed days at sea to being one of the largest ships with 14 passenger decks, this sister ship of the Disney Dream promises an unforgettable journey. Sail to the Caribbean, Europe, or the all-new Lighthouse Point, Disney’s exclusive cruising destination resort.

The cost of a Disney Fantasy cruise per person varies from $900 to $3,500, depending on the aforementioned factors. Embark on a magical voyage and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Disney Fantasy offers a variety of cruise options, each with its price point. A 7-night Caribbean cruise departing from Port Canaveral starts at approximately $2,000 per person for an interior cabin. On the other hand, a 7-night European cruise can be more expensive, with prices starting at around $3,500 per person for the same cabin type.

If you’re looking for a shorter getaway, there are also 4-night Bahamian cruises available, starting at just $1,200 per person for an inside room. Take a look at the following sailings on the Disney Fantasy in 2024, specifically for an Inside Room.

• 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise – $1681 per person 2024
• 7-Night Lighthouse Point Cruise – $3,389 per person 2024

On the Disney Fantasy, an interior cabin for a 7-night cruise starts at approximately $1200 per person. However, if you prefer a concierge-level cabin, prices can begin at $4,000 per person or more.

For instance, let’s consider the cost of a 7-night Eastern Caribbean Cruise across the 4 different types of cabins:

• Inside  – $3243 per person
• Oceanview  – $3488 per person
• Verandah  – $3908 per person
• Concierge –  $9,074 per person

Disney Wonder Cost Per Person

The Disney Wonder, an original ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, holds the distinction of being one of the smaller Disney ships, accommodating up to 2,400 passengers. This delightful vessel embarks on captivating journeys to Alaska, Mexico, Australia, the Caribbean, and beyond. The price of a Disney Wonder cruise varies between $750 and $2,800 per person, contingent upon the aforementioned factors.

Embark on a magical 5-night Bahamian cruise aboard the Disney Wonder, starting at approximately $1,300 per person for an interior cabin. If you’re seeking an awe-inspiring adventure, set sail on a 7-night Alaskan cruise, which may reach a higher cost of $2,800 per person for the same cabin type. Looking ahead to the future, anticipate captivating voyages in 2024, such as those bound for Hawaii and Melbourne, offering unforgettable experiences at an estimated $2,000 per person.

For example, the following sailings on the Disney Wonder in 2024 for an Inside Room starting at:

• 4-Night Cruise to Australia – $1,045 per person (Sailing in November 2024)
• 5-Night Alaskan Cruise – $1,615 per person (Sailing in July)
• 10-Night Hawaiian Cruise – $2,570 per person (Sailing in March)

Disney Cruise Prices by Cabin Type

On the Disney Wonder, the price for an interior cabin begins at approximately $750 per person for a 5-night cruise. However, if you prefer a concierge-level cabin, expect prices to start at $2,800 per person.

As an illustration, consider the cost of a 7-night Mexican Riviera Cruise across four different room cabin types:

• Inside  – $1713 per person
• Oceanview  – $2028 per person
• Verandah  – $2588 per person
• Concierge –  $4625 per person

Discover the Price of Disney’s Latest Disney Adventure Cruise Ship

Disney has recently opened bookings for its newest cruise liner, the Disney Treasure. This magnificent ship, captained by Minnie Mouse, is a true work of art and a companion to the Disney Wish, which embarked on its maiden voyage in the summer of 2022. While the Wish was Disney’s enchanting castle on the seas, the Treasure is its elegant “palace.”

Starting from September 20th at 8 a.m. ET/5 a.m. PT, you can now reserve your room onboard the ship. However, if you dream of being part of the inaugural voyage from December 21st to 28th, 2024, be prepared to spend a significant amount. For two adults, prices for an inside room begin at $9,123, while an oceanview room starts at $9,963. If you desire a verandah room, prices begin at $11,279, and the concierge rooms, including the extraordinarily luxurious suites, start at $24,957.

Alternatively, if you are willing to wait a few extra months until May 2025 for your Disney Treasure cruise, you can enjoy the experience for less than half the price. Prices for two adults start at $3,944.

Disney Cruise Cost Itineraries

Alaska cruise 7 nights from vancouver.

If you’re considering a trip to Alaska on a cruise, keep in mind that the prices can vary greatly depending on the type of room you choose. Verandah cabins tend to be in higher demand and therefore more expensive, with prices ranging from $6,500 to $17,000 for a 7-night cruise. This breaks down to about $232 to $602 per person. On the other hand, inside cabins are much more affordable, typically priced between $6,500 and $8,000. If you’re looking for luxury, be prepared to pay a premium for a Verandah cabin, which can cost anywhere from $8,900 to $17,000.7 per person per day

7 Night Caribean Disney Cruise

For a family of four, a 7-night Caribbean cruise could cost anywhere between $5,300 to $10,000. You have the option to choose between Magic, Fantasy & Wonder ships. In my personal opinion, Magic or Fantasy would be the ideal choice when cruising with Disney in the Caribbean. Additionally, Disney also offers cruises in Europe.

RELATED: Disney Treasure Inside Review

Disney Europe Disney

The only cruise ship available in Europe is the Disney Magic, which happens to be one of my favorites and the first ship we ever sailed on. For a 7-night trip, the cost per person per day falls between $189 and $397 on average.

3-Night Caribean

for a 3-night Disney Cruise to the Caribbean can vary greatly, ranging from $2,600 to $6,300. This means you can expect to pay between $216 and $525 per person per day.

4 Nihgt Caribean Disney Cruise

A 4-night Caribbean Cruise can cost anywhere from $3,400 to $6,700. Choosing a 4-night cruise can be more cost-effective since it typically sails on weekdays. If you can take some time off during weekdays, consider a 4-night cruise that would average $212-$418 per person per day.

not Include your Flights and Hotels.

Factors Why Disney Cruise Will Cost But Worth Each Peny

“How much should I save to cover the costs of a Disney cruise?” This is a common question, but unfortunately, the answer is not straightforward. The price of a Disney cruise varies depending on several factors, such as itinerary, cabin type, and time of year.

• Where you’re going, the length of your trip, and the time of year will all impact the cost, with shorter cruises typically starting at around $1,000 per person and longer trips to multiple ports potentially reaching above $6,500 per person.
• The trip’s duration and port of call will also affect the total cost. Shorter trips, such as a three-night cruise to Nassau or Castaway Cay, tend to be more affordable than longer journeys with several destinations.
• Which Disney ship you’re on will also affect the price. The newer, more luxurious ships have a higher price tag than the older vessels in Disney’s fleet.
• How many people you’re traveling with can also influence the overall cost. Some cruise discounts may be available for large groups, such as military personnel or families traveling together. Additionally, excursions, meals, drinks, and luxury staterooms all add up to your final price tag. It’s important to research all of the available options and find the best deal before booking your Disney Cruise.
• The type of stateroom you book is also a factor that can affect the total cost of your trip. Luxury staterooms such as suites and concierge rooms offer more amenities for an additional fee. Booking in advance can often save money on a Disney Cruise vacation, so it’s worth planning to get the best deal possible. Your cruise package may include certain perks depending on the type and duration of your trip.
• Any add-ons or specialty bookings you choose can also add to the cost. Such options may include activities such as a spa treatment, special excursions, and a character meet-and-greet. Lastly, don’t forget about taxes and fees for your cruise package, along with tips for the crew onboard. By taking all of these factors into consideration, you can get the most out of your Disney cruise prices.

Tips for Finding the Best Deal on a Disney Cruise Vacation

Booking in Advance, Researching All Available Options, Comparing Prices Across Destinations, Taking Advantage of Group Discounts and Special Offers, Booking a Standard Stateroom, Planning Ahead for Add-Ons or Specialty Bookings, and Keeping an Eye Out for Taxes and fees.

When you have taken all of these factors into consideration, you can find the best deal possible on your Disney cruise vacation!

F&Qs About Disney Cruise

How expensive is the disney cruise.

Here is how much a cruise would be for a family of 4

– 3-night Caribbean cruise. You can look at paying from $2,600 – $6,300 on

– The 4-night Caribbean Cruise can range from $3,400 – $6,700.

– 7 Night Cruise will range from $5,300 – $10,000.

– 7 Night Alaska Cruise prices can range from $6,500 – $17,000

When Is The Cheapest Monyh To Sail DisneyCruise

Typically January, February, Early March, September & October are the cheapest times to sail on a Disney Cruise.

Is The Food Free On Disney Cruise

Your Disney Cruise includes all food except for meals at the two specialty restaurants, Palo and Remy, and treats from Vanellope’s Sweet Shop. Please note that alcohol and specialty drinks are not included in the cost of the cruise and will include an additional charge.

Is it worth spending money on Disney?

It depends on your preferences. If you are a Disney enthusiast, then It’s worth it. If you have children between the ages of 3 and 10, I would also recommend it. However, if your children are older than 10, it depends on how much you enjoy it.

Is There Only Adults on a Disney Cruise Line

Each Cruise Line has a section on their ships called “The District” that is only for guests who are 18 and older. This section has different bars, lounges, a nightclub, and a movie theater. It’s a spot for adults to unwind, spend time with others, and enjoy entertainment just for them. Additionally, they can access all the other family-friendly activities and amenities on the ship.

Overall, a Disney Cruise vacation is an unforgettable experience for you and your family. With excellent entertainment, delicious dining experiences, and plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained, it’s no wonder that families love cruising with Disney!

So start planning your magical voyage today to get the most out of your vacation experience. By researching all of the available options and finding the best deal, you can make your Disney Cruise vacation a dream come true!

Hope this helps! Happy cruising! 🙂

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As can be expected from Disney, the Disney Dream was specially designed with families in mind, combining sleek style and convenient facilities with splashes of magic and cruise-industry firsts—like the splashtacular AquaDuck, the very first water coaster at sea.

Disney Fantasy

Building on the classic style of her sister ships, the Disney Fantasy is the fourth cruise liner in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. This ship features the same attention to detail that Disney is known for, while introducing new and immersive, one-of-a-kind venues and experiences for everyone in the family.

Disney Magic

Disney Magic pays homage to the timeless style of the past while embracing the contemporary. Experience Disney's traditions of extraordinary family entertainment and superb service while you ride the waves.

Set your compass toward the Disney Treasure, the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, where the spirit of adventure meets the daring tales of classic Disney films and Disney park attractions—sailing 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries beginning December 2024.

Disney Wish

Set sail aboard the Disney Wish—Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship sailing to the Caribbean and The Bahamas. On board, there’s enchantment everywhere you turn, where fantastical worlds and beloved characters from Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars are brought to life in new and amazing ways for everyone in the family.

Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder pays homage to the timeless style of the past while embracing the contemporary. Experience Disney's traditions of extraordinary family entertainment and superb service while you ride the waves.

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Ship Rating

An outstanding luxury cruise experience with an exceptional level of attention to detail. Expect superb service from all levels of officers and staff.

A very good quality all-around cruise experience aboard a ship that offers a range of facilities and services.

A decent, unpretentious cruise experience, with a moderate amount of space and quality in furnishing and fittings.

A modest quality cruise experience with less attention to detail and service.

Expect a very basic cruise experience with minimal attention to service, hospitality and finesse.

Offers some, but not all, of the amenities and services associated with the next highest star rating.

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I saved every receipt — here’s how much it actually costs to go on a Disney Dream cruise

One of the best things about cruising is that you can pay for a cruise months in advance, forget how much it costs, and then board the ship on embarkation day blissfully ignorant of how much you paid to get there and ready for vacation spending.

While I'm not one to keep a tally of every dollar I spend on trips, it's sometimes nice to know exactly how much I've spent, down to booking a hotel the night before a cruise, drinks on board the ship and purchases in port. So on one of my recent Disney Cruise Line sailings on the Disney Dream cruise ship, I saved every receipt to figure out how much my family and I actually paid for the vacation.

Having that information is important, not just for me when I'm ready to plan my next cruise with Mickey and the gang, but so you can budget appropriately for your next Disney Dream cruise. Let's face it — Disney Cruise Line vacations are expensive, but the memories made on the ships are priceless.

Is it possible for families on a budget to afford a Disney cruise? The short answer is yes, but there is some strategy involved. Here's how much our Disney Dream cruise really cost for a family of three.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Disney Dream cruise costs

Before I dive into just how much my trip cost, let me give you some background.

The pricing for this cruise is based on my family of three adults. A cruise with kids will likely have a different balance of expenses.

Our transportation to the embarkation port of Miami is not included since the expense can vary greatly depending on how you choose to get to the port. We drove since we live in Florida, but not everyone is lucky enough to live within driving distance of their departure port. I did include all the other costs from our trip, including a pre-cruise hotel stay, the actual cruise fare and dining at specialty restaurants on board.

My family and I were not super strict with our budget, but we also didn't splurge on everything. We did treat ourselves to a few meals at the adults-only restaurants on Disney Dream and a few cocktails each day, but we never went overboard with extras in the ports of call. Checking our onboard account each morning through the Disney Cruise Line app made it possible for us to have a fun vacation without emptying our bank accounts.

Related: 26 Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock

Cruise booking

Our biggest cost on this trip was the cruise fare because sailings on Disney Dream are not cheap. Even if you avoid the specialty restaurants, skip excursions in each port and stay in one of the cheaper cabins, you'll still spend a few thousand dollars just to get on board.

For three adults sharing a cabin, Disney Dream vacations currently start at $2,317, including taxes and fees, and that's for a three-night sailing to the Bahamas in 2024. If you're planning a longer cruise or a European cruise, it will cost significantly more, especially during peak times when kids are out of school or during a themed sailing.

Because of how expensive Disney cruise sailings are, I always look for deals, either a Florida resident offer or a discount on a select sail date.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

Our Disney Dream cruise was a five-night Halloween on the High Seas sailing, with a Florida resident discount for three people booked in a balcony cabin (which Disney calls a verandah stateroom). The total cost of the cruise, including taxes and fees, was $2,497.28.

Total for cruise booking: $2,497.28

Pre-cruise hotel accommodations

I always suggest that people arrive in their embarkation city or a city nearby at least the day before a cruise. This relieves the stress of having to get to the ship on time in case of flight delays or blocked roadways.

The night before my Disney Dream cruise, my family and I stayed at Disney's Vero Beach Resort, which is a little over halfway from our home in Jacksonville, Florida, to Miami.

We used Disney Vacation Club points to book an "Inn-Standard View" room, which was big enough for the three of us. The room cost us 16 points, so we technically didn't spend any money on booking a hotel the night before. Unless you have points to spend, don't forget to budget for lodging before or after your cruise, as needed.

Total for hotel: $0

Pre-cruise meals

The night before our cruise, we decided to eat out in Vero Beach at American Icon Brewery. Everyone in my family got a local beer to try, then we shared an appetizer, and everyone got their own entree. The meal set us back $106.55.

While Disney's Vero Beach does have an on-site restaurant, we enjoy getting out in the city and trying a local place. American Icon Brewery was fun, and the food and service were both great.

Related: 14 things you should do before every cruise

For breakfast the morning of our cruise, I brought muffins that I made at home for my family to enjoy. The room included a coffee maker and Keurig coffee pods, so we drank that with our light breakfast. Disney's Vero Beach Resort does serve breakfast at its onsite restaurant, but we needed to hit the road early to get to our 11 a.m. port arrival time, so the muffins and coffee were a perfect easy breakfast.

Total for dinner: $106.55

Parking at the port

Parking at any cruise port can add a large amount to a cruise vacation. For five nights, parking at PortMiami was $110. We paid for this as we were leaving the parking deck rather than upfront.

Total for parking: $110

Specialty dining on board

Disney Dream has two adults-only specialty dining restaurants onboard, Palo and Remy. To dine at either restaurant, cruisers should get a reservation in advance through the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. If you can't secure a reservation before the sailing, ask about walk-up availability for either restaurant once on board. Just be sure to head straight to the hostess desk outside of Palo and Remy as soon as you board the ship (even before eating lunch) because any open reservations will be snapped up quickly.

My family always eats at Palo for brunch on a Disney cruise, and this time was no different. The meal is a high-end table service option that starts with your choice of a charcuterie board or chilled seafood platter, plus a delightful spread of bread. The menu is also filled with entrees like house-made pizzas, plate-size Mickey waffles, made-to-order pasta and elevated egg dishes like frittatas.

The meal for the three of us cost $170. My dad also ordered Palo's signature bloody Mary, which tacked on another $12.39 to our meal.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

On this cruise, for the first time ever, my family and I dined at Remy, a French-inspired restaurant that was worth every penny. To start, we were served a welcome cocktail called The Collette, which is named after the female chef in the Pixar movie, "Ratatouille."

Then we were presented menus that were divided into two prix-fixe options, one that leaned more French and one that leaned more high-end American. I chose the French menu, while my parents chose the American menu. The meal overall was fantastic and was worth the $462.50 for the three of us.

Total for specialty dining: $644.89

Specialty drinks and alcohol

One thing that sets Disney Cruise Line apart from other family-friendly cruises is that it doesn't offer all-inclusive drink packages . Passengers must purchase all beverages on board at the per-drink price, though drink prices on Disney ships can sometimes be slightly cheaper than similar libations on other big-ship lines. Plus, soda is included in your cruise fare.

Disney Cruise Line also allows passengers to bring your own wine or beer on board at every port , while other cruise lines restrict guests to one bottle of wine at embarkation only. Not only does this policy allow you to potentially save money on beverage costs, but you can enjoy interesting brews and vintages from the places you visit.

Every night, my family went to happy hour at the adults-only bar Meridian, which is located between Palo and Remy. This spacious bar has large windows that overlook the sea and two outdoor patios with seating. Cocktails for five nights at Meridian cost my family of three $179.67.

Other places to have a specialty cocktail or coffee on Disney Dream include the Cove Cafe, Skyline, Pink and 687. At these other bars, my family spent $122.16.

While we enjoyed all of the bars and lounges on the ship, Meridian was easily our favorite and not just because of the view. The Cast Members who work in this bar are top-notch and learned our cocktail preferences quickly. By night two, they were shaking up off-menu cocktails that they knew we would enjoy.

Total for drinks: $301.83

Disney Cruise Line allows guests to prepay their onboard gratuities for their stateroom host and their service team in the dining room. This charge came to $72.50 per guest.

On top of the standard gratuities, we chose to give an extra $20 to our dining room server, assistant server and head server, plus our stateroom host , all of whom get a portion of the prepaid gratuities. At the end of our cruise, we also gave the two bartenders in Meridian an additional $20 in cash for all of their hard work throughout the week and for making our vacation special.

Total for gratuities: $337.50

While I'm not normally one to get a souvenir from a cruise ship, I couldn't resist making a few purchases on Disney Dream.

My favorite Disney character, Sorcerer Mickey, is the stern character on the ship, so a lot of the Dream-branded merchandise has this variation of Mickey on it. And since this was a Halloween cruise, I found some spooky souvenirs in the stores, too. I dropped $118.97 on merchandise.

Total for souvenirs: $118.97

Related: 11 things you should never buy on a cruise ship

On most cruises, my family and I opt to explore the port on our own versus buying excursions . It saves us money, and we can head back to the ship whenever we want. On this cruise, our ports of call were Grand Cayman and Disney's private island , Castaway Cay.

Because we've visited Grand Cayman previously and it's not our favorite cruise port, we stayed on the ship that day to enjoy the less crowded pool decks and a nice lunch inside one of the main dining rooms.

On our Castaway Cay port day, we did get off the ship but didn't opt for any of the island's excursions, instead heading to the adults-only beach, Serenity Bay. We also enjoyed lunch at the adults-only beach, which is included in the overall cruise cost.

If we were going on a cruise to destinations we had never been to before, like a Disney cruise to the Mediterranean or Alaska , we would likely opt to do Disney-sponsored excursions, which are often a few hundred dollars per person per excursion. And if your family has never been to Grand Cayman, you might want to book a tour to explore the island or one of its attractions.

Excursions: $0

Spa services

One of my favorite areas on any Disney cruise is the Senses Spa and its Rainforest Room. This area of the spa features multiple shower experiences, saunas, a row of heated lounge chairs and two private hot tubs. The best part is that the lounge chairs and the hot tubs are in a glass-enclosed space, so you can see the ocean or ports while using the facilities.

On this five-night sailing, my mom and I booked a "couples rate" to be able to come and go from the Rainforest Room as we wanted throughout the cruise. The total cost for that was $187.62. My mom also opted to get a massage on the cruise, which cost $209.42.

Total for spa services: $397.04

What it really costs to go on a Disney Dream cruise

For three adults sharing one cabin on a five-night Halloween-themed sailing on Disney Dream, the total cost came to $4,514.06. That equals out to each person paying $1,504.69 for the trip, or $300.94 per person, per day.

To put that in perspective, our five-night Disney cruise was a similar cost on a per-person, per-day basis to TPG's Summer Hull's three-day trip to Walt Disney World .

Based on our trip, here's the major breakdown of Disney Cruise Line trip expenses:

• 55.3% cruise fare
• 2.4% pre-cruise hotel and meal
• 2.4 % parking
• 14.3% onboard dining
• 6.7% drinks
• 7.5% gratuities
• 2.6% souvenirs
• 0% excursions
• 8.8% spa services

A Disney cruise can be an affordable way to take a Disney vacation, especially if you're willing to forgo upcharges such as concierge rooms and pricey excursions in ports of call. On my family's Disney Dream cruise, we kept our daily expenses to just over $900, though it's very easy to rack up a folio bill for thousands of dollars a day more. If you want to stay within a certain budget, be sure to try as many money-saving hacks as possible to keep the cost in check.

A Disney vacation will never be cheap, but with some planning and flexibility, it is possible to take a Disney cruise without draining your bank account.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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What's Included on a Disney Cruise

Expect something more..

• Enchanting Entertainment: Delight in Broadway-caliber musicals, see your favorite Disney characters in new and exciting ways and enjoy a new fireworks show at sea (fireworks on most cruises).
• Spacious Staterooms: Designed for Families: extra space and storage, sitting area, and split bath to allow more people to get ready at the same time.
• Disney’s Private Island: Relax in paradise with beach chairs, umbrellas, waterslides and a barbecue lunch (on most Bahamian and Caribbean cruises).
• Variety of Dining Options: Enjoy upscale restaurants, casual dining, poolside snacks and 24-hour room service.
• Imaginative Youth Clubs: Play in themed clubs for every age, staffed by specially trained Disney counselors.
• Nightclubs & Lounges: Discover adults-only areas that include a variety of bars and pubs.
• Pools & Recreation: Splash it up in freshwater pools and waterslides at sea.
• Book your cruise now.

THE VALUE OF A DISNEY CRUISE

From the moment you step on board to your last wave goodbye, your vacation includes almost everything you and your family could hope for—and much more.

Entertainment

Delight in Broadway-style musicals, behold fireworks at sea and watch new Disney movies. Entertainment " tabindex="0">View More

Disney's Private Island, Castaway Cay

A port of call on many Bahamian and Caribbean itineraries, Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island paradise reserved for Disney Cruise Line Guests. Disney's Private Island, Castaway Cay " tabindex="0">View More

• Extravagant live shows and entertainment every night of your cruise
• Immersive kids clubs for every age with specially trained counselors
• Adults-only nightclubs and lounges
• Variety shows, trivia, mixers and karaoke
• Favorite Disney Characters throughout the ship
• Fun-filled activities for every age—sun-up to well after sundown
• First-run and classic Disney movies out on deck or in state-of-the-art theater spaces
• Live music throughout the ship

View Disney Cruise Line Entertainment

• A barbecue lunch
• Coffee, tea and soda
• All-you-care-to-eat ice cream
• Beaches, including a family beach and adult-only beach
• Beach chairs and umbrellas
• Beach towels
• Island entertainment
• Clubs for kids and teens
• Hiking trails
• Beach sports
• Yoga classes
• A splash zone
• Pelican Plunge waterslide
• Tram transportation
• 5K trail for walking or running

Learn more about Disney’s Castaway Cay

Savor a wide variety of dining options sure to satisfy even the pickiest of palates, thanks to fresh, expertly prepared dishes available 24 hours a day. Dining " tabindex="0">View More

Whether it's a cozy retreat or an extravagant suite, staterooms are designed with your family in mind—with comforts you won't find elsewhere. Staterooms " tabindex="0">View More

Pools & Recreation

Splash it up in freshwater pools, aqua play areas and waterslides, or stay shipshape while out at sea thanks to onboard recreational centers. Pools & Recreation " tabindex="0">View More

• Three lavishly themed Main Dining restaurants
• Convenient quick-service dining
• 24-hour room service
• Complimentary soda, tea and coffee on deck and in the dining rooms
• All-you-care-to-enjoy soft-serve ice cream
• Late-night snacks in the adult nightclubs and lounges

View Disney Cruise Line Dining

• Split bathrooms (in most staterooms) and privacy curtains that make getting ready easier for everyone
• In-stateroom, signature spa, bath and shower toiletries
• Ample storage space, including room underneath the bed for tucking away luggage
• A refrigerator
• A hairdryer
• Television and in-room movies
• Attentive housekeeping services twice a day—including turndown service

Learn more about Disney Cruise Line Staterooms

• Mickey’s Pool or AquaLab, where kids can soak up some soggy fun—home to a sparkling pool, a winding waterslide and wading pools
• Goofy’s Pool or Donald’s Pool, designed for families looking to participate in splash-tastic activities together
• Quiet Cove Pool, for Guests 18 years of age and older in search of a more serene swimming environment
• Wild water coasters—AquaDuck or AquaDunk—that propel thrill seekers on an exhilarating journey through an acrylic tube over the side of the ship to an unforgettable splashdown
• Fanciful water play areas and splash pads for little ones 3 years of age and under
• Satellite Falls, a relaxing adults-only splash pool with a cascading rain curtain on the Disney Fantasy
• A fully-equipped fitness center, home to weight machines, cardiovascular equipment and numerous exercise classes

View Disney Cruise Line Pools

WHY CHOOSE A DISNEY CRUISE

Cast off on an award-winning vacation unlike any other, where what we’re doing to make your cruise even more magical is matched only by our focus on keeping you safe.

Awards & Accolades

Disney Cruise Line has earned more than 100 distinguished awards in a variety of categories. Learn more about our most recent honors.

The Disney Difference

Disney's signature service, attention to detail, and rich storytelling are some of the reasons why Disney cruises are voted among the best at sea.

Know Before You Go

Learn about our commitment to health and safety, explore our guide to updated experiences, and discover the top things you’ll need to know before sailing.

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4 expensive disney cruise options that are worth the cost (and one that isn’t).

Taking a Disney  cruise  lets you be the prince or princess of a Disney story. Everything from your meals to onboard entertainment is taken care of, leaving you free to explore everything the ship offers.

Learn More:  11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024 Find Out:  How To Get $340 Per Year in Cash Back on Things You Already Buy

Understanding  what’s included  in your package can help you decide where it might be worth splashing out a bit more cash for an even more enchanting experience.

While every Disney cruise comes with its share of pixie dust, some experiences are so spectacular they justify the extra investment. From princess makeovers to adult-only fine dining, prioritizing the right upgrades can elevate your cruise from memorable to once-in-a-lifetime.

Sponsored: Credit card debt keeping you up at night? Find out if you can reduce your debt with these 3 steps

Magical Makeovers at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique/Pirate’s League

The  Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique  offers an opportunity for your children to transform into their favorite characters, whether that’s a prince, princess or pirate. Since you likely chose a Disney cruise for the unique Disney experience or because you or your children are fans of a character or two, it makes sense to take part in this one-of-a-kind makeover option.

Princess makeovers range from $100 to $450, with the basic “Deluxe Carriage Package” including hairstyling, shimmering makeup and face gem, princess sash and cinch sack, nail polish, and t-shirt. Pricier packages also include princess gowns, accessories, tiaras, and more. To give your princess a special experience at a lower cost, you could pack a princess dress rather than paying for the more expensive package that includes one.

For those who would like to become knights or captains, you can select a package that includes a costume, sack or backpack, hairstyling and gel, confetti, and either a sword and shield or a captain’s hat and an autograph book. These packages cost $100 for the knight and $120 for the captain. Pirate makeovers are available on special Pirate Party nights.

Beer Mug or Drink of the Day Savings Package

Although Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer an all-inclusive alcohol drink package, they do have alternatives that could be a good value if you plan to drink on your cruise. You can purchase a $17 souvenir glass beer mug that allows you to buy 21 oz of draught beer or hard cider for the price of a 16 oz beer or hard cider. This will pay for itself if you have more than around a half-dozen drinks, and you get a nifty keepsake that you can use on future cruises.

There is also an option to purchase a Drink of the Day cocktail souvenir cup that you may refill at a discounted price (and drinks of the day are already discounted). You can use these cups for drink discounts at Disney Castaway Cay as well, so don’t forget to pack your cup when you go ashore. Speaking of going ashore…

Port Adventures

A big part of cruising is going ashore during the port stops along the way. You may want to upgrade your trip by opting for  port adventure packages . These packages can include equipment rentals like bicycles, snorkels, and water tubes. They may also include cultural experiences, sightseeing, or even nature experiences like swimming with dolphins.

Booking your port adventures through Disney also offers the convenience of pre-set pricing, saving you the hassle of haggling or currency exchange. Not all the experiences are super expensive, and even splurging on a mid-range adventure will be a memorable upgrade to your cruise that reduces stress during port days.

Adult-Exclusive Dining

Every Disney Cruise ship offers dining options for adults only, so you can have a peaceful date night with your spouse while sailing. These dining options are only available for people 18 and older. The restaurant options include (depending on your ship) Palo, Palo Steakhouse, Remy, and Enchante.

After recent price increases in 2023, brunch and dinner at Palo and Palo Steakhouse will cost $50 per person for a fixed menu. Base dinner prices at Remy and Enchante are $135 per person. A la carte options are available for an 18% charge on top of the price of each item. While these meals are fairly pricey, especially considering other meals in the Dining Room are included in your ticket cost, you can’t put a dollar amount on an amazing adult-only date night.

Skip This Upgrade: Royal Court Royal Tea

One upgrade option you may have heard about is the Royal Court Royal Tea. While it’s a charming idea, especially for fans of Disney princesses, the cost is steep at $220 per child and $69 per adult.

While the description makes the Royal Tea sound charming, attendees have found it an expensive disappointment. Although it’s a popular add-on, popularity isn’t always synonymous with value. Besides, there is a completely free Princess Gathering where you can meet and greet your favorite Disney Princesses.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : 4 Expensive Disney Cruise Options That Are Worth the Cost (and One That Isn’t)

Disney Cruise Line vs. Royal Caribbean: Which family-friendly cruise line is for you?

If you're planning a cruise vacation with kids, you're likely focused on two brands: Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean.

While other cruise lines cater to families, these two lines top the charts. Royal Caribbean is known for its humongous ships that are chock-full of family-friendly attractions, from waterslides and ice skating shows to huge kids clubs and adults-only solariums and sun decks. Disney is always top of mind for a family getaway, and the characters, quality of entertainment and family-focused service you're used to in its parks and hotels carry over onto its cruise ships.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

How do you make a decision when your vacation choice falls to Disney Cruise Line versus Royal Caribbean? The cruise lines are different in many ways — discover what sets the lines apart to determine which is the best for you.

Size of ships

Royal Caribbean is known for having some of the largest cruise ships in the world , including the 250,800-ton, 7,600-passenger titleholder, Icon of the Seas . Its Freedom, Quantum and Oasis Class ships are no joke either. Freedom Class ships measure roughly 156,000 tons and carry upward of 4,500 passengers at maximum capacity, Quantum Class ships measure 169,000 tons and accommodate 5,000 passengers, and Oasis Class ships measure a bit more than 225,000 tons and carry between 6,600 and 7,000 passengers.

As befitting their size, these ships are full of attractions and entertainment options, a range of cabins and suites at varying price points and multiple dining and drinking establishments.

The fleet does include smaller ships among its 28 vessels. The Vision and Radiance Class ships carry around 2,500 passengers when full. However, these ships lack many of the family-friendly attractions that Royal Caribbean is known for, and are also the vessels the line sends on longer voyages or based in secondary home ports, such as San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Baltimore. On many of these smaller ships, you'll find more adults, though all will have kids clubs and welcome families.

Related: The 7 classes of Royal Caribbean cruise ships, explained

Disney Cruise Line has a much smaller fleet with only five ships (soon to be six by late 2024). These ships come in three sizes: the 83,000-ton Disney Magic and Disney Wonder carry 2,713 passengers at maximum capacity; the 130,000-ton Disney Dream and Fantasy carry 4,000; and the 144,000-ton Disney Wish (and its soon-to-debut sister, Disney Treasure ) can also accommodate 4,000. That puts its larger ships on par with Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class.

Unlike Royal Caribbean, Disney's smaller ships still bring all the Disney magic, including waterslides, family-friendly dining options and all the Disney character and princess encounters you could wish for.

Related: The 3 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

Cabins and suites

Both Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line ships offer a range of cabin and suite categories, so travelers can choose the amount of space, layout and price point that works for them.

Both cruise lines divide cabins generally into windowless inside cabins (on both lines, certain ships have digital screens that simulate windows, displaying video from outside the ship), ocean-view rooms with porthole or picture windows that do not open, balcony cabins with private verandas and suites with extra space and VIP amenities.

Both lines offer top-level cabins and suites with access to exclusive lounges and deck space and the services of a concierge. You can find these Concierge-level rooms on all Disney cruise ships, but Royal Caribbean's Suite Class is only offered on its newest classes of ships (Icon, Oasis and Quantum).

All of Disney Cruise Line's cabins were designed with families in mind. Most have a split bath design, with a sink and toilet in one room and a tub-shower combo and sink in another. They have room-dividing curtains and plenty of extra berths, with sofabeds and pulldown bunks. Royal Caribbean does have some family cabins fleetwide, especially on Icon of the Seas, but the majority of its rooms were not created with families of three and four in mind.

Royal Caribbean is your line if you're looking for over-the-top suites on the biggest ships. The collection includes stunning two-floor suites, including the Ultimate Family Townhouse and Ultimate Family Suite on Icon and Oasis Class ships which are a kid's dream accommodation.

Royal Caribbean also has some quirky cabins you might find fun, including ocean-view and balcony rooms that look onto the open-air, interior "neighborhoods" on Oasis and Icon Class ships, such as the fun-loving Boardwalk, leafy Central Park and kid-friendly Surfside. Icon of the Seas has new Infinite Balcony cabins, which have extra interior space and a glass wall that rolls down halfway (like a car window) to bring fresh air into the room.

Related: Royal Caribbean cruise ship cabin and suite guide: Everything you want to know

Food and drink

Neither Royal Caribbean nor Disney Cruise Line is known for amazing food across the board; however, both have restaurants that will wow you.

When comparing Disney Cruise Line versus Royal Caribbean on dining, Royal Caribbean is your best bet, especially on its larger ships, if you want a lot of dining variety and don't mind paying extra for certain meals. Disney Cruise Line is the winner for family-focused restaurants and some amazing adults-only restaurants.

All Royal Caribbean ships include three meals a day in its multideck, banquet-style main dining rooms and Windjammer Marketplace buffets. Ships will also have a couple of additional included venues for snacks and fast-casual meals, such as cafes (with extra-fee coffee), Sorrento's pizza and El Loco Fresh for Mexican fare.

If you're willing to pay, you'll find nearly everything you could wish for: sushi and hibachi, steak, seafood, Italian, Southern, Johnny Rockets, pub fare and inventive dishes created using molecular gastronomy. Suite Class guests have access to an elevated, intimate dining room called Coastal Kitchen.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Disney Cruise Line takes a completely different approach to dining. Each of its ships features three included sit-down restaurants, and passengers are given a schedule of which venue to visit on which night. Your waiters rotate through the dining rooms with you, so they can get to know your preferences. The eateries are often themed to Disney movies or characters and might have a stage show or other entertainment as part of the fun.

In addition, a buffet is open for breakfast and lunch, along with all-day dining at poolside, grab-n-go venues for things like pizza, burgers and sandwiches.

Adults can seek a quieter, more romantic meal in Disney's various adults-only, extra-fee restaurants, including the Italian Palo and the French Remy or Enchante. At $50 per person, Palo is a great value for brunch and dinner with all-you-can-eat options from an extensive menu, all of very high quality. On the flip side, Remy and Enchante are among the most expensive specialty restaurants at sea.

Both cruise lines offer room service , but Disney's is included in the fare, while you have to pay extra on Royal Caribbean.

Kids activities

Both cruise lines excel at entertaining kids (especially on Royal Caribbean's bigger and newer ships), but the lines take different approaches here as well. To start, both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean have large kids clubs on their ships, with separate spaces for kids and teens, as well as extra-fee nurseries for the littlest cruisers.

Disney's Oceaneer Club and Lab are expansive play spaces themed to Disney, Pixar and "Star Wars" characters. You can play in Andy's Room from "Toy Story" or fly the Millennium Falcon in a "Star Wars" simulation. Activities range from arts and crafts and science experiments (like making goop) to playing video games or digital entertainment on the Magic Play Floor. Tweens and teens each have separate hangouts with lots of games and hangout space.

On Royal Caribbean ships, teens and tweens share a hangout, and the cruise line is experimenting with new programming to host activities around the ship for this picky age group. Kids still congregate in Adventure Ocean with multipurpose spaces for sports, games and crafts and plenty of high-tech entertainment. Newer ships have separate artist's studios, theaters, science labs and game space.

And, of course, both cruise lines plan kid and family activities around the ship, outside of the drop-off kids programming in the clubs. On Disney Cruise Line, families can take photos with their favorite characters and princesses, enjoy family trivia and karaoke, and attend events like a Pirate Night deck show or dance parties in the main atrium. Royal Caribbean might offer a family festival with games and face painting or field day-style competitions.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Onboard attractions

Disney might be a wiz at theme parks, but no cruise line does onboard attractions better than Royal Caribbean. Look to its biggest, newest ships for wow-factor attractions, including a FlowRider surf simulator , waterslides (including a six-slide water park on Icon of the Seas) and giant dry slides, escape room, ice skating rinks, laser tag pop-ups, bumper cars (on Quantum Class ships), zip lines, rock climbing walls and sky diving simulators.

However, its Vision and Radiance Class ships take a more traditional, pared-down approach to onboard attractions, focusing on pools and hot tubs, the casino and the spa. Choose your ship carefully if you have certain whiz-bang attractions on your to-do list.

Disney Cruise Line ships will have a water ride or slide or two, indoor and poolside movie theaters and a spa, but don't expect the over-the-top attractions of a Royal Caribbean ship. The line focuses more on activities than attractions and lazy days by the pool.

Related: The 10 wildest attractions you'll find on a cruise ship

Entertainment

When you compare the entertainment of Royal Caribbean vs. Disney Cruise Line, you're not going to get a clear winner. Both lines excel at entertainment but — this won't surprise you — the two lines have different strengths when it comes to onboard shows.

Disney Cruise Line knows how to turn out high-quality shows, and each ship will offer three original Broadway-style musicals in its onboard theater. Some of them are musical versions of favorite animated classics, such as "Beauty and the Beast" and "Tangled." Other shows combine characters and songs from the Disney playbook to create original shows, like "The Golden Mickeys."

Disney is also known for captivating top-deck events, such as its Pirate Night shows, complete with fireworks, rappelling pirates and Mickey and friends dressed in their pirate best. Its ships run classic Disney movies on its poolside screen and first-run shows from the entire Disney portfolio in the indoor movie theaters. Adult entertainment in the lounges at night might include interactive game shows, karaoke, live music or even a solo show from a cast member.

Royal Caribbean also gets high marks for its stage shows, which range from shortened versions of Broadway musicals to original song-and-dance revues. Some ships have separate clubs where guest comedians perform, ice rinks for original Ice Capades-style shows and AquaTheaters for innovative acrobatic-diving-dancing performances. Expect high-tech effects, including the use of robotics, to enhance the entertainment.

The cruise line employs numerous musicians, including pianists who perform at the Schooner Bar, Dueling Pianos bar and even in the elevator and other unexpected locations (you never know where the Stowaway Pianist will appear). Ships with Royal Promenades host festive parades, dance parties and midnight balloon drops.

Who is on board?

Disney Cruise Line unsurprisingly attracts a lot of families, especially families with little kids in that princess-worshipping sweet spot, as well as multigenerational families. However, the line also attracts its fair share of adult couples, friends and families with grown children. It's not uncommon to find couples celebrating an onboard wedding or their honeymoon.

What most of these Disney passengers share is a love of the brand, whether that's the characters and movies or Disney's obsession with high-quality entertainment. Also, Disney cruises don't come cheap, so families tend to be well off, or they've saved for years for a special trip.

Related: 5 reasons why Disney cruises aren't just for kids

Royal Caribbean sees a larger variety of passengers across its fleet due to multifaceted ships and a wide range of cruise fares. You'll find families with kids of all ages (including adult ones), couples celebrating milestones from weddings to retirements, and lots of bachelor and bachelorette parties, spring breakers and girlfriend getaway groups. Who is on board will vary depending on the ship, the time of year and the length and destination of the cruise.

If you want a more adult environment, look for smaller or older ships, longer itineraries and off-peak travel times. If you want to find families, look for weeklong cruises sailing during school breaks. The party crowd and younger friend groups gravitate toward the super-short three- or four-night or weekend itineraries.

Related: The best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for every type of traveler

Itineraries and pricing

Disney Cruise Line ships mainly sail to the Caribbean and Bahamas on weeklong or shorter sailings. Three- and four-night cruises from Florida home ports, especially Port Canaveral, are ideal for tacking onto short visits to Disney World in Orlando.

Disney Wonder is the cruise line's Pacific-based ship. It sails to Mexico, Alaska, Australia and New Zealand, the South Pacific and Hawaii (the latter as repositioning cruises). Disney Dream is the line's transatlantic ship. It sails to the Caribbean and Bahamas from Florida, but also crosses the ocean to offer European cruises (Mediterranean, Norwegian fjords, Western Europe).

Disney has previously offered Bermuda and Canada/New England cruises from northeastern U.S. home ports but does not currently have any on its schedule.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line ships and itineraries

With a much larger fleet, Royal Caribbean has a much more diverse itinerary roster, but its focus is mainly the Caribbean, the Bahamas and Europe. In the summer, the line might base a dozen ships in the islands, half as many in Europe and four in Alaska, with the rest sailing to places like Bermuda, Canada and New England, Mexico and Asia. It can offer ship and itinerary options within one cruise region at the same time, whereas Disney might only have one ship sailing one route.

Royal Caribbean also offers cruises to the South Pacific, Pacific Northwest, Australia and New Zealand, Hawaii and Panama Canal, as well as transatlantic and transpacific crossings to move ships to new home ports.

You'll also have a wider selection of departure ports in the U.S. with Royal Caribbean. Its ships sail from secondary home ports, such as Baltimore, Boston, Cape Liberty (Bayonne, New Jersey), Galveston, New Orleans and Tampa, as well as the major Florida ports, Los Angeles, Seattle and Vancouver.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cruise ships and itineraries

Perhaps because Disney Cruise Line has far fewer ships to fill than Royal Caribbean, its prices are generally much higher on similar itineraries. For example, at press time, the cheapest seven-night Caribbean cruise you can book on Disney Cruise Line starts at $1,449 per person, based on double occupancy and not including taxes and fees. Royal Caribbean's cheapest weeklong cruise starts at $377 per person.

However, Royal Caribbean's newest ships are very much in demand, and pricing can rival Disney's. The cheapest seven-night cruise on the line's recently debuted Icon of the Seas starts at $1,723 per person; its 2025-arriving sister Star of the Seas isn't much more affordable, with rates starting at $1,677.

Bottom line: Disney Cruise Line vs. Royal Caribbean

If you're looking at Disney Cruise Line versus Royal Caribbean for your next vacation at sea, you can't go wrong with either line.

Choose Disney Cruise Line if you're a huge Disney fan or are traveling with kids who are. Choose that line if you prefer smaller ships that are still kid-focused but offer plenty of adults-only spaces. Finally, book a Disney if you can afford the high fares and if your preferred destination and travel dates match up with the line's more limited schedule.

Choose Royal Caribbean if you like big ships and cruises that appeal to all ages and interests or if you're looking for smaller ships and are fine with older ships and more traditional onboard activities. If you need a wide variety of itineraries to choose from, are looking to cruise to more far-flung destinations or need options for affordable rooms or a wide selection of suites, Royal Caribbean is the line for you.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

GOBankingRates works with many financial advertisers to showcase their products and services to our audiences. These brands compensate us to advertise their products in ads across our site. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site. We are not a comparison-tool and these offers do not represent all available deposit, investment, loan or credit products.

4 Expensive Disney Cruise Options That Are Worth the Cost (and One That Isn’t)

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Taking a Disney  cruise  lets you be the prince or princess of a Disney story. Everything from your meals to onboard entertainment is taken care of, leaving you free to explore everything the ship offers.

Understanding  what’s included  in your package can help you decide where it might be worth splashing out a bit more cash for an even more enchanting experience.

While every Disney cruise comes with its share of pixie dust, some experiences are so spectacular they justify the extra investment. From princess makeovers to adult-only fine dining, prioritizing the right upgrades can elevate your cruise from memorable to once-in-a-lifetime.

Magical Makeovers at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique/Pirate’s League

The  Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique  offers an opportunity for your children to transform into their favorite characters, whether that’s a prince, princess or pirate. Since you likely chose a Disney cruise for the unique Disney experience or because you or your children are fans of a character or two, it makes sense to take part in this one-of-a-kind makeover option.

Princess makeovers range from $100 to $450, with the basic “Deluxe Carriage Package” including hairstyling, shimmering makeup and face gem, princess sash and cinch sack, nail polish, and t-shirt. Pricier packages also include princess gowns, accessories, tiaras, and more. To give your princess a special experience at a lower cost, you could pack a princess dress rather than paying for the more expensive package that includes one.

For those who would like to become knights or captains, you can select a package that includes a costume, sack or backpack, hairstyling and gel, confetti, and either a sword and shield or a captain’s hat and an autograph book. These packages cost $100 for the knight and $120 for the captain. Pirate makeovers are available on special Pirate Party nights.

Beer Mug or Drink of the Day Savings Package

Although Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer an all-inclusive alcohol drink package, they do have alternatives that could be a good value if you plan to drink on your cruise. You can purchase a $17 souvenir glass beer mug that allows you to buy 21 oz of draught beer or hard cider for the price of a 16 oz beer or hard cider. This will pay for itself if you have more than around a half-dozen drinks, and you get a nifty keepsake that you can use on future cruises.

There is also an option to purchase a Drink of the Day cocktail souvenir cup that you may refill at a discounted price (and drinks of the day are already discounted). You can use these cups for drink discounts at Disney Castaway Cay as well, so don’t forget to pack your cup when you go ashore. Speaking of going ashore…

Port Adventures

A big part of cruising is going ashore during the port stops along the way. You may want to upgrade your trip by opting for  port adventure packages . These packages can include equipment rentals like bicycles, snorkels, and water tubes. They may also include cultural experiences, sightseeing, or even nature experiences like swimming with dolphins.

Booking your port adventures through Disney also offers the convenience of pre-set pricing, saving you the hassle of haggling or currency exchange. Not all the experiences are super expensive, and even splurging on a mid-range adventure will be a memorable upgrade to your cruise that reduces stress during port days.

Adult-Exclusive Dining

Every Disney Cruise ship offers dining options for adults only, so you can have a peaceful date night with your spouse while sailing. These dining options are only available for people 18 and older. The restaurant options include (depending on your ship) Palo, Palo Steakhouse, Remy, and Enchante.

After recent price increases in 2023, brunch and dinner at Palo and Palo Steakhouse will cost $50 per person for a fixed menu. Base dinner prices at Remy and Enchante are $135 per person. A la carte options are available for an 18% charge on top of the price of each item. While these meals are fairly pricey, especially considering other meals in the Dining Room are included in your ticket cost, you can’t put a dollar amount on an amazing adult-only date night.

Skip This Upgrade: Royal Court Royal Tea

One upgrade option you may have heard about is the Royal Court Royal Tea. While it’s a charming idea, especially for fans of Disney princesses, the cost is steep at $220 per child and $69 per adult.

While the description makes the Royal Tea sound charming, attendees have found it an expensive disappointment. Although it’s a popular add-on, popularity isn’t always synonymous with value. Besides, there is a completely free Princess Gathering where you can meet and greet your favorite Disney Princesses.

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How much does a cruise cost in 2024.

Use this guide to learn more about cruise pricing and how to figure out the total cost of a cruise.

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

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With the rising cost of everything, cruise fares – some even as low as $27 per person per night based on double occupancy – seem like an incredible bargain. And they certainly can be, but the fares you see advertised online often don't include extras like taxes, fees, port expenses, gratuities, shore excursions, specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, room service fees and more.

Cruise pricing can be confusing with so many variables. Unless you're sailing with a smaller luxury line that is all-inclusive , your bill on the day of disembarkation may be unexpected or even shocking. Small things like buying bottled water or renting noodles for floating in the ocean at a cruise line's private island can add up quickly. To help you plan better for a cruise vacation , U.S. News has broken down some of the costs and add-ons you need to take into consideration before booking your next getaway on the high seas.

Find your perfect cruise

How much does a one-week cruise cost?

A cruise can cost anywhere from about $109 per person in an interior cabin for a four-night Bahamas cruise up to $101,199 per person for an entry-level suite on a 168-night world cruise – and anywhere in between. Cruise fares vary based on itinerary, number of nights, cabin type, amenities and cruise line. Here are a few examples of base cruise cost ranges on larger cruise lines for various regions:

• A seven-night Caribbean cruise in November ranges from approximately $270 to $2,600 per person.
• A seven-night Alaska cruise in May ranges from approximately $250 to $1,700 per person.
• A seven-night Mediterranean cruise in June ranges from approximately $620 to $2,300 per person.
• A seven-night Mexico cruise on the Pacific Coast in January ranges from approximately $470 to $700 per person.
• A seven-night Canada and New England cruise in October ranges from approximately $490 to $1,100 per person.

What's included in the base fare with a larger cruise line?

Mass market cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line – and more upscale lines like Celebrity Cruises , Holland America Line , Cunard Line , Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises – advertise "starting from" base fares, which are for inside cabins. These are the least expensive staterooms on the ship, and they do not have windows. Staying in these accommodations still gives you access to all the complimentary dining venues and several types of nonalcoholic beverages (such as nonbottled water, iced tea, juices, hot coffee and tea), as well as the ship's pools, gym facilities, kids clubs and onboard entertainment.

If you want a room with a view – or a larger stateroom – consider booking an ocean view room with a window, or a cabin with a balcony or veranda. With these rooms, you'll have access to all the ship's included amenities and typically more spacious accommodations for the week. Of course, this option will come at a higher price point.

No matter which room category you choose, port expenses, taxes and fees are not included in the base fares, and they're automatically added to the cost of your cruise. The amount of these charges will depend on the length of your cruise and where you're sailing. Gratuities for the staff and crew are also additional.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

What if you want more amenities and perks?

For more perks, you can splurge on a suite or a higher room category. With Celebrity's Concierge Class, for example, you'll be treated to amenities such as a welcome lunch, a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, personalized concierge service, an exclusive destination seminar, pillow selection upon request, laundry service and more.

With Disney Cruise Line's Concierge Staterooms and Suites, guests have a dedicated concierge agent offering personalized assistance for pre-arrival planning for port adventures, dining reservations, other onboard activities and special requests. You'll also get priority check-in and boarding, a private welcome reception, free Basic Surf Wi-Fi, access to a private lounge with complimentary food and beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) served throughout the day, and other perks.

You may opt to stay within an exclusive area of the ship, such as the MSC Yacht Club, The Haven by Norwegian or Celebrity's The Retreat. These high-end private retreats offer a mostly all-inclusive experience with additional features, while still including access to all the entertainment, dining venues and more on board. The accommodations can cost hundreds more dollars per day, but you'll have an experience similar to sailing on a small luxury vessel.

For example, the MSC Yacht Club offers an intimate all-inclusive space within its larger ships. The private area is accessible with a key card and features luxurious suites, a dedicated concierge, 24-hour butler service, a private restaurant and lounge, a secluded pool deck, priority reservations for specialty dining, VIP seating for entertainment, and other amenities. There are also additional dining and snack options throughout the day at the pool and lounge.

You'll find similar amenities in Norwegian's and Celebrity's private retreats, including priority boarding and disembarkation, exclusive sun deck areas, and priority access when boarding tenders for going ashore.

Guests of MSC's Yacht Club receive the line's Premium Extra Beverage Package, which covers premium liquors, fine wines and Champagne in the Yacht Club and at most other venues on the ship. Accommodations in The Retreat on Celebrity also include premium beverages throughout the ship. If you're staying in The Haven by Norwegian, a beverage package is not covered in the pricing, but Norwegian frequently advertises its "Free at Sea" package, which includes free unlimited bar, free specialty dining, complimentary Wi-Fi, discounts on excursions and other perks.

What factors determine pricing?

Base pricing and the additional components vary greatly among the cruise lines, so you'll need to determine what your budget is for the trip – and what you can and can't live without when it comes to accommodations and amenities. Travelers may also find that one cruise line has a deal or promotion with reduced pricing that covers airfare, specialty dining, a beverage package, free Wi-Fi or other perks in the advertised rate (such as the Norwegian package mentioned above), while another line isn't running any specials for a similar itinerary.

Voyages on older cruise ships tend to be less expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, consider a ship with fewer bells and whistles. If you're sailing on a short itinerary in the Bahamas and plan to lounge by the pool or on the beach all day, you may not be concerned about having high-tech onboard amenities, martini bars and several specialty restaurants.

Save the money to splurge on more expensive fares when you're planning to sail on longer voyages on larger and newer ships . You'll want several days at sea to enjoy the onboard amenities on some vessels, such as a three-level racetrack and a 10-story-tall slide on Norwegian Viva . It would take a full week (or more) to explore all the entertainment options aboard Royal Caribbean International's newest ship, Icon of the Seas – or all the new entertainment offerings and attractions on Princess Cruises' latest addition to its fleet: Sun Princess.

Another significant factor to consider is the time of year you want to travel. Better deals are available in the offseason, but the offseason varies depending on what part of the world you're traveling to. For example, May is a great time to find a deal in the Caribbean. The offseason – or shoulder season – in that market typically runs from May to November. However, keep in mind this period overlaps with hurricane season .

You also may be able to find last-minute deals in many other destinations if you're flexible. Working with a travel agent is an excellent way to learn of last-minute specials and cruise deals that offer add-ons like beverage packages, specialty dining inclusions, shore excursions and other perks. You can also check out the online specials that change frequently.

Solo travelers may pay more

If you're traveling alone, you may also need to factor in a single supplement, which can add up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. To save money, bring a friend so you can access the lower double occupancy fare or consider lines that feature rooms for solo travelers; select Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Celebrity ships offer solo staterooms, as do other cruise lines. Check out our guide to the best solo cruises with no supplement fare .

These smaller accommodations – typically ranging from around 100 to more than 200 square feet in size – are priced and designed for solo travelers. Key card access to Norwegian's Studio Lounge is included with the line's solo cabins and offers a place to relax and mix and mingle with other cruisers. Other lines that offer solo cabins include Holland America, MSC, Cunard and Virgin Voyages . While the price may not be as inexpensive as the double occupancy fare when traveling with someone else, these accommodations offer some savings over a typical solo fare.

Some lines often feature special deals on select sailings where the single supplement is waived or reduced. A knowledgeable travel agent specializing in cruises can assist in finding the best offers for solo travelers.

'Kids cruise free' promotions can help families save

If you're traveling with kids, many cruise lines – such as Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Disney and Princess – offer "kids sail free" promotions periodically throughout the year. You can also find discounted fares for children on select sailings.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has fares as low as $999 for children 17 and younger on a variety of select voyages. Regent's regular fares typically start at around $3,600 per person for a seven-night cruise, so this is a significant savings. This fare also includes unlimited complimentary shore excursions and all the benefits and perks of sailing with an all-inclusive luxury cruise line. Regent even has a current promotion where kids sail free on a selection of seven- to 20-night itineraries in Europe and the U.K.

Food and beverages are another expense to consider

Once you determine your total cruise fare with the taxes, fees, port charges and gratuities, you'll need to budget for the additional expenses you'll have on the ship – and these extras can add up quickly. Meals at specialty dining venues, alcoholic drinks and other beverages may not be covered in the basic cruise fare. You'll also have to pay for room service on many ships.

You can purchase specialty dining, beverage and Wi-Fi packages before or during your cruise. These packages offer savings over purchasing everything individually – and it's best to buy them once you book your cruise, as they're typically cheaper to purchase before you board the ship.

For an example of the savings with a food package, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. This package includes reduced pricing for children ages 6 to 12, while kids 5 and younger eat for free. The cruise line's unlimited dining package also offers discounts on bottles of wine.

In addition to specialty dining venues that charge a flat fee – usually between $30 and $50 – there are also restaurants that charge as much as $135 or more for dinner, such as the adult venues on Disney Cruise Line's ships. Other restaurants feature a la carte menus with sushi, bar food and even steakhouses that price out individual courses. Some of these venues may not include gratuities, so that's another add-on. If you decide to dine at any of these spots – and they're not included in your package – you'll have to budget for them in the total cruise price.

Enticing dessert items in the gelato and ice cream shops on some ships also come with a price, including Coco's and Dolce Gelato on Norwegian or MSC's Venchi Gelati and Chocolate.

There are endless options when considering beverage packages, too, so you need choose what fits best with your interests and budget. Some of the package options are only for nonalcoholic drinks like fountain sodas, sparkling waters and coffees, while premium or deluxe beverage packages cover beer, wine and cocktails, so they are more expensive.

Depending on the cruise line, most premium packages will usually cover drinks up to $15, but many craft cocktails on cruise ships can be quite expensive, costing much more, especially if you request a specific brand for the liquor. If you have the premium package and want to splurge on the fancy beverage, you'll have to pay the difference.

It's important to know that there are a few select venues and bars on some ships that do not accept a beverage package, so you'll have to pay extra for drinks at those places. For example, MSC's ships have several signature venues that do not accept drink packages, such as Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Lavazza coffee shops and Venchi 1878.

Norwegian offers a package that covers top-shelf beverages and select bottles of wine and Champagne, Starbucks coffee, bottled water, soda, specialty drinks and other beverages. You'll need to budget around $138 per person per day for this option – and an additional 20% gratuity. This type of package can add up to quite a bit of money on a seven-day cruise or longer. For more information, consult our guide on the drink package options for major cruise lines .

Bundle pricing

For additional savings, look into bundle pricing that includes specialty dining, Wi-Fi, photos and more. Purchasing them together may be more cost-effective. For example, Holland America offers the "Have It All" package, which encompasses a $100 shore excursion credit, the Signature Beverage Package (including the service charge), one evening of specialty dining and the Surf Wi-Fi package for a six- to nine-day cruise. If you're sailing for 10 to 20 days or even longer, the benefits increase. The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle.

While these packages may not always work out in your favor, you'll at least know what your dining, imbibing, excursions, Wi-Fi and even additional activities on the cruise will cost.

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Additional costs on a cruise ship

Cruisers will also incur additional fees from excursions, fitness classes, spa treatments, access to thermal spa rooms, babysitting services, ship tours, wine tastings, cocktail demonstrations, cooking classes, laundry services, and some entertainment venues and activities on the ship. Examples include Norwegian's racetrack, Viva Speedway; high-tech attractions like the Robotron thrill ride and the XD cinema on MSC Seascape ; and Carnival's first roller coaster at sea, BOLT.

See some of the more popular added costs you'll want to consider below.

Wi-Fi access

If you need Wi-Fi during the cruise, that's another cost to factor into the total price. Here are two examples of pricing for internet plans for two cruise lines.

Carnival offers three options for Wi-Fi, using Starlink. The basic Social Wi-Fi Plan gives you access to certain social media channels like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and more, starting at about $15 per person per day. The cost increases to roughly $20 per person per day with the Value Wi-Fi Plan. This option gives you access to your email and to sites for weather, news, finance and more. It does not support Skype or music and video streaming services like Spotify and Netflix during your cruise.

The last option, Carnival's Premium Wi-Fi Plan, starts at around $19 per person per day and offers speeds up to three times faster than the Value plan. With this plan you can make Zoom calls and use Skype. For all three of these plans, you can save 15% off the total price if you book in advance of your trip.

Celebrity also uses Starlink. The line's "All Included" fare includes basic internet and a classic drink package, which the line says can save you potentially hundreds of dollars. If you don't book that fare, Wi-Fi plans range from around $20 per day for basic service to premium Wi-Fi at $35 per day.

• Shore excursions

If you're traveling to far-flung or new destinations, you'll want to book shore excursions. Cruise lines recommend that you book excursions directly with them rather than hiring an independent tour company or operator, but it can be more expensive to book tours through the cruise line.

However, if you experienced a delay on an independent tour and couldn't get back to the ship on time, there's a chance you could get left behind if you're not on a ship-sponsored tour. If you decide to go with a private tour guide, be sure to book an excursion that will allow you to arrive back at the ship with plenty of time to spare before the vessel departs for the next destination. Most tour operators in busy cruise ports work with the cruise ship schedules all the time, so you should be fine with a reputable independent guide.

Some trips last an entire day or are once-in-a-lifetime adventures like dog-sledding on a glacier in Alaska or taking a helicopter ride over the active volcanoes and waterfalls in Iceland. These types of excursions can be costly, ranging anywhere from hundreds to even thousands of dollars. If these types of experiences are not in your budget, look for historic walking or panoramic driving tours. These activities are shorter in duration and typically the least expensive tours available on the cruise. Many of these types of tours will cost less than $100. And, of course, there are always other options available that range between the lower and higher price range of excursions.

If your ship is docked directly in the town or city, then you'll be able to explore off the ship on your own for free. Some cruise lines also offer complimentary shuttle buses into town or a round-trip ride for a nominal fee if it's not within walking distance of the ship. That's another less expensive option for you to sightsee, shop or grab lunch in town.

Transportation

Transportation is another expense that's often overlooked in the total cost of a cruise. Consider if you'll be driving or flying to the cruise port. If you're driving, you'll have to pay for gas and parking at the port – and maybe a hotel the night before the cruise, depending on when you arrive and when your ship is scheduled to set sail. Don't forget the meals or beverages you'll purchase on the way.

If you're flying to the port, especially on a long-distance flight, it's best to come in a day early. In that case, you'll also have to pay for a hotel, transfers from the airport to the hotel and then a transfer (private hire, Uber or cab) to the ship's terminal. There will also be meals to budget for while you're in town before the cruise and a ride back to the airport after the cruise.

Souvenirs or forgotten items

Don't forget to account for purchases on the ship. Items that you forgot to bring from home will be more expensive on board. It's also easy to run up the bill when buying souvenirs for yourself or the kids. It's a good idea to periodically check your bill online or with guest services to see the current balance. You can keep a running tab of what you've billed to your stateroom – and also make sure that the charges are correct.

Cruise pricing checklist

To sum it up, here's a checklist of major items that will help you to compare costs across cruise lines and tally up the total cost of a cruise:

• Base cruise price
• Taxes, fees, gratuities and port expenses
• Specialty dining
• Food and beverage packages
• Optional activities (such as spa treatments or extra-fee entertainment on the ship)
• Miscellaneous expenses (such as meals and beverages ashore)
• Air or ground travel to the port
• Hotel prior to embarking

If you don't want to budget for all the individual expenses related to a cruise – and you don't need the over-the-top entertainment of a larger cruise ship – consider booking a mostly all-inclusive or fully all-inclusive cruise with a luxury cruise line . These cruise lines include almost everything in your cruise fare.

Mostly all-inclusive cruises

One option for a mostly all-inclusive cruise is Viking Ocean Cruises . The line's 12 all-veranda ocean-going vessels accommodate between 930 to 998 guests based on double occupancy – and all of Viking's ships feature the same categories of staterooms and suites, dining, lounges, and entertainment venues across the fleet. The ships offer an immersive cultural curriculum on board with regional dishes, destination performances and enrichment lectures.

Viking's fares include veranda accommodations, port taxes and fees, free Wi-Fi, access to the spa and fitness center, 24-hour room service, ground transportation (if you book airfare with Viking), and one complimentary excursion in each port. You'll also have alternative dining options at no extra charge, plus free beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board the ship. Specialty coffees, teas and bottled water are available 24 hours a day at no extra charge.

If you like to have an aperitif before your evening meal or an after-dinner cocktail, those beverages will be at an additional cost. You'll also need to budget for any optional shore excursions that are not included in the fare.

Keep in mind that Viking is an adults-only cruise line , so children younger than 18 are not permitted.

All-inclusive cruises

Regent Seven Seas, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line boast all-inclusive luxury experiences with shipwide amenities such as ocean-facing suites, butlers, premium spirits, fully stocked in-suite bars, no tipping and complimentary dining at world-class restaurants.

Additional perks with Regent Seven Seas include complimentary unlimited shore excursions, free two- or three-night land programs, a free one-night hotel stay before the cruise departure, transfers from the airport to the ship, and business class or economy airfare (depending on the destination).

Silversea offers door-to-door arrangements where everything is handled by the cruise line. You can also opt for a port-to-port all-inclusive rate if you prefer to make your own travel arrangements. If you're on one of the cruise line's expedition cruises, fares will include a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay. All door-to-door and port-to-port Silversea fares cover a selection of complimentary shore excursions in each port.

If you're interested in an even smaller ship – and are sailing to the Caribbean or Mediterranean – SeaDream Yacht Club features an intimate luxury experience on its two 56-stateroom yachts. The fares include top-notch cuisine, an open bar, gratuities, complimentary daily yoga, access to water sports and movies under the stars.

How much does a luxury cruise cost for two?

If you want to go on a mostly adults-only luxury ship, what can you expect to pay for two people? This will depend on the ship, where you want to sail and for how long – and what amenities are included in the fare.

For a seven-night cruise in the Caribbean in December 2024 round-trip from Miami with Regent Seven Seas, an all-inclusive cruise fare with suite accommodations starts at $7,398 ($3,699 per person). There are additional perks and savings available, depending on the level of accommodations you book and if you combine this cruise with another voyage. You can also check with a travel agent specializing in cruises to see if they have access to other promotions.

For a Silversea cruise in December 2025 that sails round-trip from Bridgetown, Barbados, the all-inclusive port-to-port cruise fare starts at $9,800 for two people ($4,900 per person) in suite accommodations. Contact a travel agent before booking to see if they can offer upgrades or additional amenities.

While the price tag may seem high, compare the total cost with the base fare on a larger cruise ship and then add in all the extras.

See the top cruises on  GoToSea .

The bottom line

The average cost of a cruise is all over the map – and there are many variables to consider. Hiring a cruise specialist to navigate the rough waters may be your best option. Cruise specialists are also privy to special deals and incentives that you may not be able to access on your own. Travel agents can also advise you of promotions that may include free specialty dining, beverage packages, complimentary Wi-Fi, shore excursions, discounts on solo and family travel, and more. This approach will save you the hassle of searching online or calling the individual cruise companies to check on what specials are available.

If you'd rather have one price with everything included so there's little room for surprises at the end of the trip, consider a mostly or fully all-inclusive cruise fare. If you don't need waterslides for the kids, big Broadway shows and high-tech entertainment, a cruise on a small luxury line may suit you well.

When doing the math and comparing the costs, you might be surprised how similar in price cruising with a larger mass market cruise line and a smaller luxury line can be. In the end, your decision will come down to your personal preferences and what you value most for your cruise vacation.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. Cruising is one of her favorite ways to travel and she hopes to book an extended cruise to see the rest of the world someday soon. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival: Which Is Right for You?
• The Top Cruise Insurance Plans
• Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

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