5 Ways To Save Money on a Disney Cruise Vacation

Lucy Clark / Shutterstock.com

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.

20 Years
Helping You Live Richer

Reviewed
by Experts

Trusted by
Millions of Readers

For many, a Disney Cruise may feel out of reach. The company doesn’t exactly have a reputation for affordability. But getting a great deal on a Disney Cruise is possible if you’re flexible and use a few cost-saving tips.

Here are some to consider.

Travel During Off-Peak Season

• Potential Savings: 30%

Cruise bookings peak around major holidays and during the summertime. Spring break, early July and any time between Thanksgiving and the new year are prime times for Disney Cruise Line, so you can expect a higher price tag. Instead of planning your vacation when everyone else is, opt to go in the off-season. Weeks where school is in session are usually a good bet — think February, May and September/October. 

Here’s an example: A two-person, five-night cruise to the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale starts at $4,335 in mid-July. But in October, you can take the same trip for $2,920. It hits all the same spots and is over 30% cheaper.

Opt For a Shorter Trip

• Potential Savings: 50% or more

Dreaming of a weeklong trip sailing the Western Caribbean? Sounds heavenly — but pricey. You can save thousands by booking a shorter cruise. 

For instance, Disney Cruise Line offers a seven-day, double occupancy basic cabin through the Western Caribbean for $7,011, departing in June 2025 from Fort Lauderdale. It includes stops in Mexico, Jamaica, Grand Caymans and the Bahamas. The five-day version departing from Port Canaveral starts at $2,993. While the shorter cruise doesn’t anchor in Jamaica or the Grand Caymans, the $4,000+ savings is money in your pocket.

Take Advantage of Special Offers

• Potential Savings: 20%-25%

Disney Cruise Line offers regular discounts on select cruises. Currently, savings are available for Bahamian, Caribbean and Mediterranean cruises with various dates from April through July. Florida residents and U.S. military service members also qualify for special savings.

Since Disney cycles its offers regularly, consider signing up for its mailing list. You’ll get updates whenever a new discount becomes available. 

Work With a Travel Agent

• Potential Savings: Varies

It may sound a bit old school, but there are significant benefits to hiring a travel agent to book a Disney Cruise. Here’s why: They know how a Disney Cruise works. Travel agents spend their days booking cruises for clients, and their expertise comes in handy when you’re trying to save money.

Your travel agent can pinpoint specific cruises and packages within your budget. Some agents may grant you special perks and onboard credits to use during your trip. The credits can go toward extras not covered in your booking, like excursions.

Book Long Cruises Early

• Potential Savings: 20%

Have your heart set on a lengthy cruise? Book well ahead of time. Prices for seven-day cruises tend to jump as the departure date gets closer. 

GOBankingRates compared prices for a seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruise departing Port Canaveral, Florida, in June 2025 and 2026. For a two-person inside stateroom, the 2025 price is currently $7,335. But if you book the same week in June 2026, prices start at $6,005.

That’s not always the case for shorter-duration cruises. In fact, booking early may cost more. As an example, a three-day Bahamian cruise for two departing from Port Canaveral in June 2025 starts at $2,324. The same trip in June 2026 is currently $2,954.

Share This Article: