What is not included in Disney cruise price?

Beyond the Magic: Unpacking the Unexpected Costs of a Disney Cruise

A Disney cruise promises a magical vacation, immersing you in the world of your favorite characters and enchanting experiences. But while the base cruise fare covers the essentials, ensuring a truly unforgettable trip often involves budgeting for additional expenses that aren’t immediately apparent. Understanding these extra costs before you embark can prevent any unwelcome surprises and help you plan a financially responsible – yet still magical – vacation.

Your Disney cruise fare, that seemingly all-inclusive price, actually encompasses your stateroom accommodations, most dining options (with the exception of some specialty restaurants, as we’ll discuss below), and access to a wide range of onboard entertainment. Think Broadway-caliber shows, character meet-and-greets, dazzling deck parties, and family-friendly activities. However, several significant costs fall outside this base price:

1. Shore Excursions: Exploring the destinations your ship visits is a major part of the cruise experience. Disney offers a curated selection of shore excursions ranging from thrilling adventures to relaxing cultural immersions. These vary greatly in price depending on the activity, location, and duration, and can add considerably to your overall trip cost. While tempting, it’s vital to budget for these excursions well in advance as popular options tend to sell out quickly.

2. Specialty Dining: While your cruise fare includes access to the main dining rooms offering a rotating menu of delicious dishes, Disney also features upscale specialty restaurants offering unique culinary experiences. These restaurants command an additional fee, often ranging from moderate to significantly higher prices depending on the restaurant and the meal. These dining experiences can be a highlight, but they should be considered a discretionary add-on rather than a given.

3. Shopping: From character-themed merchandise to elegant jewelry, the shops onboard offer tempting treasures. While resisting the allure of Mickey ears might be difficult, remember to allocate funds for shopping to avoid exceeding your budget. The shops are strategically placed throughout the ship, so be prepared for impulse purchases.

4. Spa and Salon Services: Indulge in a relaxing massage or a pampering facial at the ship’s spa? These treatments come at an extra cost, adding up quickly depending on the services you choose. While luxurious, these services are an added expense and not included in the initial cruise fare.

5. Alcoholic Beverages: While some non-alcoholic drinks are included, alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, are purchased separately. Consider the cost of drinks throughout your cruise, particularly if you plan to enjoy cocktails by the pool or celebrate with a celebratory toast.

6. Gratuities: While not always considered a separate cost, gratuities for your stateroom attendant, dining staff, and other service personnel are often added automatically to your account. Understanding this charge ahead of time avoids any surprises at the end of your cruise. You typically have the option to adjust these amounts, though it’s customary to leave a fair tip.

By carefully considering these additional expenses and budgeting accordingly, you can ensure your Disney cruise is both magical and financially manageable. Planning ahead and making informed decisions about optional activities and purchases will allow you to focus on creating unforgettable memories without the added stress of unexpected costs.