Disney cruise -- did you like your cabin? Any late reservations available?

Question

We're planning on a cruise in Jan. 08 and according to Disney the cabins with windows are already booked unless you choose the most pricey deluxe cabin (a couple thousand more) than we planned to spend.

Is it possible to still get cabins with a porthole or window through some other means, like travel agents or some other approach? We want to stick with a Disney cruise during our kids' winter break, so we're limited to looking at one partciular cruise right now.

Also, did you try an inside cabin (no porthole)? Was it pleasant? We were hoping for a porthole so we'd feel less confined, but perhaps we could live with an inside cabin. We'd certainly save thousands. What was your experience? Thank you!

Answer 1

I love the Disney Cruises, they are fantastic and with the kids clubs, they have a ball. I don't have any kids and generally go by myself and I still love the cruise, they are perfect for adults as well. There will be plenty that you can do as a family and also plenty you can do on your own.... Anyhow, it seems you already know Disney is what you want to stick with, so I don't think you need any more info on that. So, to answer your questions:

The porthole/window rooms are nice. On Disney, there are only two different options for a porthole window and the price difference doesn't add to be that much. So, it sounds like you may be looking at a room with a verandah, which would be category 7, 6, etc. The only porthole rooms are categories 8 and 9. The main difference is the location the ship. So first, I would check to see what rooms you are actually pricing, perhaps you are finding a verandah instead of just an oceanview room. Verandahs are great, I always choose a verandah just because it is so relaxing, and an especially nice place for the adults to go and be alone. So, if you are looking at a verandah room, that would explain the large difference in cost.

You may want to check if Disney has any guarantee rooms available. If they do, you would book a room in a particular category that is sold out. Disney plans on people cancelling or changing their cruise, so they expect you to get a room in the category you paid for. If they don't have a room come available, then you would be upgraded to the next available category. You could pay for an oceanview room and end up a verandah room. It's a great deal, if you don't mind not being able to pick the room you will be in, it is a great way to go. In some cases you may not get upgraded, but several times you will be able to get a nice upgrade.

Now, I think your best bet is going to be to check with a travel agent. A lot of times they offer group rates in which they reserve rooms for a particular cruise. More often than not, you will be able to get a lower rate with a travel agent and plus you may get a few extra benefits. I always use an agent, even after going on so many cruises and so many Disney cruises. It is just more convenient and often saves you money. So, you should definitely look into using an agent. There is a good chance you will find a room available this way.

Now, if you are more flexible with your dates, this would be even better. You could find a cruise that would offer the room you are looking at. Also, with Disney, the further out you book, the more you save with Disney. Disney raises prices as their ships fill. So, if you are looking at a popular cruise, then you could be paying rates in the higest tier. So, that would be a way to save more money.

As far as the rooms, it really just depends on your personal preference. Personally, I always go with a verandah. I like having the option of going out and looking at the water, in my own private space, not being around other people, or on a noisy deck, or possibly being around smoke, or anything like that. A lot of times, I will get room service and eat on my verandah, it is very nice and very relaxing. I always start my morning out with a cup of coffee on the verandah, sometimes with my breakfast and always end the day out there out way. There is no better way to start and finish the day, in my opinion. I also like being able to get some fresh air in the room.

The oceanview rooms are nice because you are able to see the water right out your window all the time. I also feel that it helps to open up the room some more. Cruise staterooms can be small and very compact, especially if you will be going with several people. Even if the window doesn't give you anymore square feet, it brings light into the room and allows you to see out and it just feels larger. Plus, you are able to see what time of day it is, the ports as you approach them, etc. Now, if you don't plan to spend much time in the room, then the porthole may not be a good upgrade for you and will allow you to save more money and use it on shore excursions, and other purchases. Some people leave early in the morning and get back late at night, so when they are in the room it is too dark to see the water anyway. If you are one of those people, then you would probably like an inside room just as well.

Now, the inside rooms are okay. But, you have to consider that you won't have anyway to look outside while in your room for the whole cruise. This can make the room darker (most people bring a night light, especially for young kids or leave the bathroom light on) This can make it a little harder to get up in the morning, you may sleep in, etc. Also, when you are in the room, it can make it seem a little smaller than with a window. People that don't spend a lot of time in the room find them to be just fine, basically just there for sleeping and getting ready for the day, the show, etc. It is a great way to save money. As long as it is big enough in size for you, it should be fine, if you don't think the window is worth it for you.

I hope this answers your questions. If you have any others, need tips, etc. please feel free to e-mail me. I cruise all the time and have been on Disney many, many times over the years and I love to help.

I've included a few links to some info that may help you as well.

Good luck with your planning.

Answer 2

If Disney says cabins aren't available in the category you are interested in then they are sold out, unless you happen to stumble upon an agent that has available space that they blocked for a group then you are probably out of luck.  The trouble is there's really no way to know if an agency has group space, Disney won't tell you.

If you are dead set on this particular sailing and category then your only option is to wait list and hope that somebody cancels between now and final payment (90 days prior to sailing).  It's been known to happen but doesn't happen often.  Disney typically sails at 98%+ occupancy.

If you consider an inside on Disney, avoid category 11 and 12.  These are the smallest cabins and do not feature the great family friendly split bathrooms.

I love Disney (honeymooned on the Wonder), and it's definitely a great option for families.  However, based on your post, price seems to be a big concern.  Disney is terrific for what they offer, however you'll pay a premium on Disney.  

For the cost of a 3 or 4 day Disney sailing you can often get a 5 to 7 day sailing on many other lines.  I know, not a Disney Cruise, but still a family friendly option that is worth considering.  

If you look at other lines as an option (heck even if you decide to book on Disney), save yourself some trouble and call a travel agent that specializes in cruises.  They'll help you with your research, matching you with a cruise line that meets your needs and desires.  A good agent can offer you the same deals that the lines and the big online websites offer - and not charge you any fees.  I recommend Cruise Planners www.mycruiseplanner.net 888-286-9872