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Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise Review: Worth It? What’s Included?

The exclusive Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise has everything you’d expect from an Alaskan Disney Cruise sailing PLUS additional special events, lectures, and previews found only on Vacation Club Member Sailings.

Recently I was invited by Disney to join the 21st Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise onboard the Disney Wonder sailing to Alaska.

Below I’ll recap how the DVC Member Cruise is different than a typical Disney Cruise Line sailing, share details on all of the special offerings we experienced, and dive into the special something that makes this different than any other Disney cruise.

This article is tailored to Disney Vacation Club members debating if a DVC Member Cruise is right for them, prospective Disney Vacation Club Members who are curious about the “Membership Magic” extra perks that members receive, and Disney enthusiasts curious about the programming and my reviews of the early previews.

This article is not specifically focused on tips for the Disney Alaska Cruise. You can read my full review of the Alaskan Disney Cruise experience here and our overview of the Disney Wonder ship here.

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In this planning guide:

Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise Overview

The Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise is one of many exclusive “Membership Magic” events for DVC members. Some of the benefits in this category are the in-park lounges ( Disneyland Disney Vacation Club Lounge Opening Announced! ) and Moonlight Madness where DVC buys out one of the theme parks exclusively for members and provides food and access to rare characters.

Members can book the Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise using Disney Vacation Club points, dollars, or a mix of the two.

During our time onboard we were thrilled with how welcoming all the Disney fans were and how excited everyone was to connect. Through the commonality of Disney fandom, everyone had something to talk about. In many ways, I enjoyed the cruise for the same reasons that I enjoy the D23 Expo . It is a place for Disney fans to come together in real life and connect with other Disney fans around fun events and activities. Yes, there are insightful events and panels, but at the end of the day the real value is connecting in person with someone from somewhere else in the country or world with the same passion as you.

There’s one other item that makes the Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise unique in fandom…

The Boat Factor

The Boat Factor represents the fact that everyone participating in the event is on the ship for the duration of the cruise. Disney notables, expert presenters, family, and friends were all aboard for this ocean voyage and constantly present.

I had breakfast next to the voice of Mickey Mouse, met one of the Directors of Zootopia+ on a rainy walk in Ketchikan, rode the White Pass Railway with Disney artists and historians, and watched friends sing karaoke with a member of 4Town from Pixar's Turning Red. This was not unique to me. Anyone who wanted to connect with the personalities and other guests on the boat had ample opportunity.

Compare this to the events at the D23 Expo. Many of the same people on the cruise also attend the expo and even some of the panels are the same, but at the D23 Expo once a panel has been completed the panelists are whisked back to the concierge level at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel before a private dinner at Napa Rose. Onboard the Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise we all shared in the same dining, onboard entertainment, and shore excursions. This commonality is the Boat Factor

You never know who you'll run into onboard the ship.

Even beyond the Boat Factor, there was clearly a lot of care and effort put into making this event special. The entire ship was decked out with specific signage. Each restaurant had custom menus with the trip’s logo. The guide materials were clear and put together well. All materials shared were witty and informational.

The other unique aspect of the trip was that there weren’t that many kids onboard. While the nature of the cruise may have played in here, it probably had more to do with the fact that the cruise was the last week of August and most kids had just started school. In general, the shows and characters were relaxed. Quite often I saw characters like Princess Tiana, Spider-Man, and Thor meandering just looking for someone to interact with.

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DVC Member Cruise Review – Access to Leadership

One of the lounges on the ship was turned into Member Central for Disney Vacation Club members to meet with member services Cast Members in person. Interactions that are usually conducted over the phone, email, or chat could be conducted face to face. I heard from some attendees who even purchased additional points and had an extremely smooth experience with the help of the Cast Members present onboard.

The intimate nature of the cruise allowed guests to easily ask questions and provide feedback. A couple of times on the cruise there were Member Mixer events for guests to connect with Disney Vacation Club leadership, meet other members in an informal setting, and share their feedback.

DVC Member Cruise Early Screening Reviews

During our cruise we were also treated to early screenings of a number of new films and series coming to Disney Plus. Here are brief reviews of the new films:

Zootopia+ was my favorite new content that we screened. This series of short films is set in the world of Zootopia throughout the timeline of the original film. Each episode is shot and written to reflect a different genre/style of filmmaking. The episode genres are: action adventure, a Real Housewives style reality show, musical, gangster, dance competition (“So You Think You Can Prance”), and rom com (this episode features two of the sloths from the DMV in the original movie). The original Zootopia is one of my recent favorites from Walt Disney Animation Studios because of its heartwarming story, zaniness, and wide array of inside jokes. The two episodes of this series that we saw during the cruise built on this. The shorts seemed to only be about 7-10 minutes. When the full series comes out, I will fly through it.

The Pinocchio Live Action film starring Tom Hanks as Geppetto was the headlining early screening of the cruise. It was an entertaining blend of live action and CGI. They did a good job delivering a new version of the Disney classic that was fun to watch with the entire family. The film is largely the original storyline lifted into live action with a couple of modernizing aspects. I found Pinocchio to be likable and Joseph Gordon Levitt did a nice job as Jiminy Cricket.

The new Mickey Mouse documentary, Mickey: The Story of a Mouse , aims to be the definitive story on the character’s creation, evolution, and cultural impact. The highlights of the documentary were a new animated sequence of Mickey Mouse flying through his looks from over the years, new to me footage of Walt Disney in Marceline, and commentary on Mickey’s portrayals of race in a healthy way that I haven’t seen Disney attempt before. Unfortunately, the documentary felt disjointed.

There were also early screenings of the new Chris Hemsworth “Limitless” series coming to Disney Plus from National Geographic and Obi Wan Kenobi show making of documentary. We did not catch those screenings.

Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise Special Programming

The Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise was full of special programming celebrating Disney history and providing a look into the future of the company. Walt Disney was known to say he had one foot in the future and one foot in the past and the programming on the cruise represented that.

Below are some of my favorite programs. Many of the presentations did not allow filming due to their exclusive nature so my photos are limited. Hopefully the below list of programs gives you a sense of the types of programming offered during the Disney Vacation Club Member Cruises and provides a fun look into our week.

The presentations largely took place during our three complete at sea days. There were a couple of times that events and screenings also took place during the evening after an onshore day. Presentations never took place while there was an option to be on land.

TOP HIGHLIGHT Disney On Broadway Let’s Get Together – On the final evening of the cruise, four Disney on Broadway stars performed an incredible array of Disney songs and a surprise medley from the Greatest Showman (now part of the Disney family post 20th Century FOX Acquisition). The performers were Bobby Creighton (long running Timon in Lion King), Josh Strickland (original Tarzan on Broadway), Kissy Simmons (longest running Nala in Lion King), Michael James Scott (the current Genie in Aladdin on Broadway), and Kara Lindsay (Katherine Plumber in Newsies). Their talent was incredible and blew the audience away. After each number I felt like I could spring up to give a standing ovation. Incredible. The songs performed were: “Let’s Get Together” from Parent Trap, “All in This Together” from High School Musical, a Hercules medley, “Be Our Guest” from Beauty and the Beast, “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” from Mary Poppins, “Easy as Life” from Aida, “Positoovity” from Little Mermaid, “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Lion King, “Friend Like Me” from Aladdin, “Santa Fe” from Newsies, “Let It Go” from Frozen, and the Greatest Showman Medley.

TOP HIGHLIGHT Sketchbook School with Eric Goldberg – Located inside the Animator’s Palate restaurant, noteworthy Disney Animator Eric Goldberg led drawing classes of a variety of different characters. Goldberg has worked on many Disney films over the years. He is known for being a lead animator on the Genie in Aladdin and Co-Director of Pocahontas. He continues to work on new Disney films and special projects – he animated the tattoos on Maui’s body in Moana and works on special projects for all divisions of the company. We went to both showings because we enjoyed the sketch class so much. Think of this event on the cruise as the Animation Academy in the theme park on steroids.

Strange World: An Inside Look – In the large Walt Disney Theatre, a Disney Animator shared a first look at the new Walt Disney Animation Film coming to theaters this November 23rd. I enjoyed seeing an early look at the film and hearing from a new-to-me voice from the Animation Studio. The film looks like fun – think Journey to the Center of the Earth. As usual, the animation looks incredible and the voice cast clearly brings emotion to the characters.

National Geographic’s Making the Disney Wish – One of the first National Geographic forays into covering Disney was this new documentary on the Disney Wish cruise ship (the next will be this new book on 100 Disney Adventures of a Lifetime ). The Emmy Award-winning producer was onboard to talk about the process of capturing the footage and what it was like to be onboard the new ship during construction. I enjoyed seeing the footage and hearing his first-hand account on crossing the Atlantic onboard the ship was work was still going on.

A Walk in Walt’s Footsteps – Soon to be crowned Disney Legend, Don Hahn was joined by Disney Historian and author of some of my favorite Disney books, Marcy Carriker Smothers to share some historic footage and talk about Walt Disney. The footage of Hahn in noteworthy Disney places with other Disney personalities was a new angle to bring some of the stories big Disney fans will have already heard to life. Smothers shared quotes and photos from her book “ Walt’s Disneyland ”.

Zootopia+ First Look – The Directors of the new series that I reviewed above shared some of their background with the Walt Disney Animation Studios and talked a little bit about working on the new series. I was impressed by their clear passion for animation and how well they riffed off one another. Their energy got the room excited to dive into the first look. For those of you headed to the D23 Expo, I recommend you consider the Zootopia+ panel as it will be identical to the one we saw.

Off Script: Getting Goofy With Voice Acting – The character voices of Goofy, Mickey Mouse, Miguel from Coco, Ahsoka Tano from Star Wars, and a member of 4*TOWN from Turning Red read funny scripts riffing on their character’s classic scenes. The two hosts kept the panelists moving through lots of different scripts and never let it get too serious – “what is this a college symposium?” was used to move speakers on from giving any long answers to the quick questions asked.

Sing! Disney Hits With the Stars – The musical stars onboard the ship (stars listed above for Off Script and the Disney On Broadway show) each prepared one Disney duet and the hosts picked a guest out of the audience to sing the matching part with the star. While this sounds fun on its own, the bit was elevated even more when family members of the stars joined in on the fun. The real life son of Disney Legend and voice of Goofy, Bill Farmer, joined Bill on stage to sing a duet that was originally shared by Goofy and Max in “A Goofy Movie” and the voice of Miguel from Coco's brothers joined him on stage for a rousing rendition of “Un Poco Loco” from Coco. Another highlight came when Josh Strickland, the original Tarzan for Disney on Broadway, came out in a tentacled Ursula dress and belted “Poor Unfortunate Souls” in honor of Pat Carroll’s passing.

The Fjord Fest – During one of our at sea days on the inside passage, there was a special deck party featuring a signature dish from Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ restaurant in Disney Springs in Walt Disney World (Smith was onboard) and the merry menagerie puppets that are typically found at Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom during the holiday season were out to play. The chicken and biscuit sandwiches from Homecomin’ were awesome!

As I look back on our seven-day voyage it is pretty incredible to see the wide array of programming that the Disney Vacation Club put on IN ADDITION to the programming offered on any Disney Alaska Cruise. The above is only the programming that we made it to.

Other DVC Member Cruise Extras

The Disney Vacation Club team that puts on the event is clearly made up of true Disney fans. The original Imagineering designer of the Haunted Mansion purple wallpaper was onboard the ship as the guest of one of the other speakers. The Imagineer, Tania McKnight Norris, only recently connected with the Disney community.

On this cruise the DVC team put together a custom photo backdrop and welcomed guests to pose with Norris and the backdrop. A great keepsake that only a true fan of Walt Disney history would understand to pull off.

Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise Gifts 2022

Disney Vacation Club Member Cruises are known for being gift forward. We were all alerted beforehand to plan to have ample room to bring things home.

Each gift was some custom creation with the Disney Vacation Club Alaskan Cruise logo. The Disney Cruise Line is known for constant service and these gifts were an extension of that. Each morning we would leave our stateroom for activities and then return to a freshened-up room and gifts on the bed. We sometimes also received gifts during the evening bed turn down that was completed while we were at dinner.

Here are the gifts that each person on the ship received.

• Welcome Kit: Lanyard, Mug, Glossy Magazine With Upcoming Activities
• Brown Alaska Ball Cap
• Warm Blanket With the DVC Logo
• Bear Statue With Disney Vacation Club Membership Cruise Logo
• Electronics Holder and Battery Pack
• Deliciously Disney: Walt Disney World Book by Marcy Carriker Smothers, Pam Brandon, and the Disney Chefs
• Disney nuiMOs of Mickey and Minnie Mouse with specialized Alaskan costumes that match the costumes they were wearing on the ship
• Alaskan Disney Posters Collection – Exclusive hand printed screen print posters drawn for this cruise by Bret Iwan, artist and voice of Mickey Mouse, for six of the destinations
• Custom Disney Pin with Alaskan Disney Member Cruise Logo
• Alaskan Disney Vacation Club Duffle Bag

These are the awesome screen print posters themed to the national parks that each depict a day of our trip.

And of course, there was so much more to enjoy on the cruise that is standard with any Disney Cruise to Alaska. I will have much more coverage off our ship and tips for a Disney Cruise to Alaska very soon.

I’ll end with a photo of one of our must dos for Disney Cruising…enjoying LOTS of soft serve up on deck even when it is a little cold and wet outside!

DVC Member Cruise 2023

The next Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise is in 2023 and will be onboard the Disney Wish. The cruise will be a 4-night sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida on September 4, 2023. The DVC Member Cruise will include stops at Disney's Castaway Cay island and Nassau, Bahamas. The cost of the Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise fluctuates by room type and payment method utilized.

The 2023 Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise is already sold out. If you’re a Disney Vacation Club Member, would you consider booking a DVC Member Cruise in the future?

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Six Questions and Answers about Disney Cruise’s Castaway Club

Updated January 25, 2024

What is it?

Castaway Club is Disney Cruise Lines , a way of recognizing Guests who have sailed with them. If you’ve taken a Disney cruise, you’re already a Castaway Club member, and eligible to receive exclusive benefits that make your next cruise easier to plan.

How do you become a Castaway Club member?

You become a Castaway member after you have completed your first cruise. Take note of the word completed, if you have booked and paid for your cruise in full, you still need to have completed your cruise to become a member or move up a level.

What are the Castaway Club levels?

The 3 membership levels are based on the total number of completed eligible cruises:

• Silver Castaway – 1 completed cruise
• Gold Castaway – 5 completed cruises
• Platinum Castaway – 10 completed cruises

About Eligible Sailings Sailings purchased at select fare types (such as media, vendors and Cast Members travelling on business) are not considered eligible cruises for calculating Castaway Club Membership levels.

What do Castaway Club members get?

The benefits of the Castaway Club depend on your level.

The benefits of being a Silver Castaway Club member include booking new itineraries one day before the general public. Silver members can book their Port Adventures, specialty dining, adult beverage seminars, spa services and other activities 90 days before the sailing. Access to a dedicated Castaway phone line. Early opportunity to book a Port Arrival Time (PAT) ( this benefit is currently paused due to the pandemic). Silver Castaway members also get an exclusive check-in desk at the terminal. A welcome-back gift and a silver lanyard are left in your stateroom for you. Pre-pandemic, you would get your lanyard in the terminal when you checked in. Check in 33 days prior to your cruise.

Gold members have completed 5 cruises. They get all the benefits of Silver Castaway members. If you are Gold, you can book new itineraries two days before the general public and book port adventures and onboard activities 105 days before sailing. Gold and Platinum members sailing on cruises longer than 8 nights are also invited to an onboard reception. They offer complimentary adult beverages, and we received Rice Krispy Mickey treats and a preview of an upcoming show. Rounding out the benefits is a discount at the shops onboard. Check in 35 days prior to your cruise.

You become a platinum member after completing 10 cruises. As a platinum member, you receive all the benefits that silver and gold members get. Platinum cruisers can book new itineraries three days before the general public and get the first chance to book new itineraries. Onboard booking for platinum members is 120 days before the sailing. Only concierge guests get to book earlier, at 135 days. Platinum members also receive a complimentary dinner at Palo. Check in 38 days prior to your cruise.

New Pearl Level

Pearl Castaway Club  members can book new itineraries  4 days before the general public . Platinum will book 3 days prior, Gold 2 days and Silver 1 day before the general public.  Pearl member s will have early access to online activity planning starting 123 days before sailing . Platinum will remain at 120 days, Gold at 105, and Silver at 90 days. They also receieve a complimentary photo package. Check in 40 days prior to your cruise.

All members get a welcome back aboard gift. On May 1, 2023 new gifts were released for the 25th Anniversary of Disney Cruise.

How do I find my Castaway Club status?

To find out about your Castaway Status , you can find it under the already booked tab, and near the bottom is the Castaway Club link.

Do Castaway Club members get a discount?

Castaway members do not get a discount. However, you can save 10% on your next cruise if you get a placeholder while on your cruise. Disney also has a discount for New Castawy Club Members. The Castaway Club Welcome Offer needs to be booked within  60 days of disembarking  your first cruise.

Does your Castaway Membership Expire?

I have added one more question and answer because of a recent change to the Disney Cruise Line website. Recently, DCL quietly changed the Castaway Club by adding an expiration to their membership. “To remain in the program, Castaway Club Members  must book or sail on at least one eligible cruise within five years of their last Disney voyage . For more information, view the  Castaway Club terms and conditions .” 

The language used is open to interpretation. When you click through the terms and conditions, you will find this:  “The Activity Period shall mean the five (5) year period after debarkation day of the Member’s last eligible DCL Cruise.  However, DCL may (but is not required to) extend the Activity Period and/or continue making Program Benefits available to Member if Member does not book or complete an eligible DCL cruise within their Activity Period ; such decisions shall be in DCL’s sole discretion. ” It is unclear why Disney would make this change; it is an outlier in cruising. 

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Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club Benefits and Levels Explained

Disney Cruise Line has a multi-tiered loyalty program for past passengers known as the Castaway Club.  You only need to sail once on a Disney cruise ship to automatically be added to the club and have access to the membership benefits.  Once you are added to the club, you will receive a membership card in the mail that has your membership number.

The Castaway Club only has three levels based on the number of cruises sailed: Silver, Gold, and Platinum.  Here are the levels and benefits of each level:

SILVER CASTAWAY  (Begins after 1st completed cruise)

GOLD CASTAWAY  (Begins after 5th completed cruise)

PLATINUM CASTAWAY  (Begins after 10th completed cruise)

AT-HOME BENEFITS:

**Early booking for New Itineraries: Members have access to book the newest itineraries before the general public.  Castaway Club members can book before the general public through the call center or their travel agent can do this on their behalf.

Silver: 1 day before general public; Gold: 2 days before general public; Platinum: 3 days before general public.

**Early access to activity planning online: Advance access to online booking for cruise activities including Specialty Adult Dining, Character Greeting requiring tickets, Character Dining, Port Adventures and more.

Silver: 90 days prior to sailing; Gold: 105 days prior to sailing; Platinum: 120 days prior to sailing.

**Castaway Club Member Communications: Periodically, members will receive updates just for members.

**Dedicated Castaway Club Phone Number: There is a members-only direct line for information and assistance.

**In addition to the above at-home benefits, Gold and Platinum members have early access to select port arrival times. Platinum members can board at any time once boarding commences.  Gold members will be able to select a preferred port arrival time upon completing their eDocuments.

ONBOARD BENEFITS:

**Exclusive cruise terminal check-in:  All Castaway club levels can utilize a dedicated members-only line for check-in at the terminal.

**Welcome Back Aboard Gift: All Club Members will find a special gift that is unique to their level waiting for them in their stateroom.  (One gift per stateroom)

**Gold and Platinum members Onboard Reception: On 8-night or longer cruises, there is a private reception with special entertainment for Gold and Platinum level members.

**Platinum Priority check-in at Cruise Terminal: Platinum Castaway Club members enjoy the benefit of check-in at the concierge area of the cruise terminal. They will receive priority boarding following Concierge guests.

**Platinum Complimentary Dinner at Palo: One complimentary dinner at Palo is available to the Platinum member and Guests staying in the member’s stateroom.

Don’t forget that while you are on board a Disney Cruise that you can get special savings on future cruises.  Make sure that you stop by the future cruise desk to check on the details and offers.  If you booked your current cruise through a Travel Agent, make sure that their information is listed if you would like for them to continue to serve as your agent.

“Ready to book your Disney Cruise Line vacation adventure today? Contact me or fill out the form below to receive your free no obligation quote.   I am a College of Disney Knowledge graduate and Senior Travel Planner with Key to the World Travel, the official travel partner for Disney Addicts and Chip and Co.  As a full-service travel agent, I can help you book and plan all Disney destinations including Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise line, plus Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld, and so much more!  My services are absolutely FREE to anyone booking a vacation through me! Contact me via email at [email protected], phone 508-726-9590 or follow me on Facebook .”

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2 EXCLUSIVE Disney Vacation Club Member Cruises Announced for 2024

We’ve got some exciting cruise news for Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members!

Disney Cruise Line has recently announced their sailings for 2024 and when reservations will begin. You can also begin sailing to their new private island in 2024 as well! But if you’re a DVC member, you’ve got a chance to get a cruise all to yourself.

By that, we mean that Disney has announced that there will be sailings specifically for DVC members in 2024 .

The first cruise is a Member Cruise in Europe , where you’ll depart from Barcelona on a 7-night cruise to the Mediterranean where you’ll visit cities in Italy and France.

The other cruise in June is a Member Exclusive Voyage to Lighthouse Point , Disney’s new private island! You’ll set sail on the Disney Magic on a 5-night cruise to the Bahamas. However, there is a disclaimer that this is a

However, this is different from a Member Cruise as it’s part of the Disney Collection exchange. This means that regular cruise programming will not be altered and in-room gifts (usually provided on other members’ cruises) will not be included.

Booking isn’t available just yet for these cruises, but be sure to stay tuned to AllEars — we’ll let you know when they are!

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Disney Vacation Club Reveals Dates for Two Summer 2024 Cruises – Member Cruise in Europe and Member-Exclusive Lighthouse Point Double Dip

On the heels of Disney Cruise LIne’s summer 2024 itinerary announcement, Disney Vacation Club revealed they will be offering 2 Member-exclusive sailings aboard the Disney Dream on May 18, 2024 and the Disney Magic on June 14th. Mediterranean or Bahamian. Which sailing would you choose?

2024 Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise in Europe

2024 Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise! Depart from Barcelona on a 7-night Mediterranean cruise sailing to exquisite cities across France and Italy. Throughout the cruise, you’ll enjoy exclusive in-room gifts, made‑for‑Members entertainment, special Character Greetings, and more. Join your fellow Members for the ultimate Member event departing Barcelona on May 18th !

7-Night Mediterranean Cruise from Barcelona on the Disney Dream

• Saturday May 18, 2024 –  Barcelona, Spain
• Sunday May 19, 2024 – At Sea
• Monday May 20, 2024 –  Naples, Italy
• Tuesday May 21, 2024 –  Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
• Wednesday May 22, 2024 –  Livorno, Italy
• Thursday May 23, 2024 –  Villefranche, France
• Friday May 24, 2024 – At Sea Saturday May 25, 2024 –  Barcelona, Spain  (Debarkation)

2024 Disney Vacation Club Member-Exclusive Cruise to Lighthouse Point

Be among the first to experience Lighthouse Point, Disney’s second island destination. Escape to this tropical retreat that immerses you in the rich culture, beauty, and history of the Bahamas, and features signature offerings from  Disney Cruise Line , including family beaches, a kids’ club, and an adult-exclusive beach. 

Please note, this Lighthouse Point cruise is different from a Member Cruise, this voyage is part of the Disney Collection exchange. Therefore, regular cruise programing will not be altered and daily in-room gifts are not included.

5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with 2-stops at Lighthouse Point on the Disney Magic

• Friday June 14, 2024 –  Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Saturday June 15, 2024 –  Lighthouse Point
• Sunday June 16, 2024 –  Castaway Cay
• Monday June 17, 2024 –  Lighthouse Point
• Tuesday June 18, 2024 – At Sea Wednesday June 19, 2024 –  Fort Lauderdale, Florida  (Debarkation)

Booking details for both cruises were not revealed, but in the email sent to members, Disney Vacation Club says to stay tuned to learn when and how you can secure your spot!

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Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Club loyalty program: Everything you need to know

Among the best-known cruise brands, Disney Cruise Line has one of the most modest loyalty programs — even after an upgrade that brought an all-new tier .

Unlike the programs of such cruise operators as Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean , the Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club, as it's called, doesn't offer members over-the-top perks such as a free cruise after reaching a top tier. There are no big discounts on shore excursions and spa treatments for members, like lines such as Windstar Cruises offer.

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

Still, Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Club loyalty program does bring a few valuable perks at its higher-level tiers, including early access to new itineraries and onboard activities.

The Disney loyalty program also makes it relatively easy to reach a high-level tier.

Ways to earn

Earning status in the Castaway Club loyalty program is about as simple as can be. You get a credit for every cruise you take — whether it's three nights long or 10 nights long. That's it. No muss, no fuss. Your status, as we'll explain below, depends entirely on how many cruises you take.

Program tiers and benefits

There are just four tiers in the Castaway Club program, including a new top tier unveiled in 2023:

• Silver (after one cruise)
• Gold (after five cruises)
• Platinum (after 10 cruises)
• Pearl (after 25 cruises)

Once you reach the first tier of the program (Silver), you will be entitled to exactly six perks. Perhaps the most notable of these is the ability to book in advance for onboard cruise activities such as ticket-only character greetings and specialty restaurant dinners up to 90 days before sailings. This is a big deal in the world of Disney cruises, where some of the hottest activities on ships sell out quickly.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Silver members can also book new Disney cruise itineraries one day ahead of the general public. That may not seem like much of a head start, but it can be a real advantage when trying to snag the perfect cabin on a hot new itinerary. Disney fans are known to snatch up the best cabins — if not all the cabins — on unique new sailings very quickly.

In addition, Silver members get:

• Select port arrival time and complete online check-in 33 days in advance of departure
• Exclusive cruise terminal check-in where available
• A members-only direct phone line to call for information and assistance
• A welcome-back-aboard gift

Upon reaching the Gold level, members get all the above perks with three notable upgrades. For starters, they can book onboard cruise activities up to 105 days before sailings. That's 15 days earlier than Silver members. They are also able to book new Disney cruise itineraries two days ahead of the general public.

Plus, they can complete check-in 35 days in advance.

In addition, Gold members get:

• A private reception for members
• Special discounts on voyages

Related: 26 tips for sailing on a Disney Cruise Line ship

The third tier of the program, the Platinum level, extends the pre-booking windows even further. Platinum members are able to make advance bookings for onboard cruise activities up to 120 days before sailings. That's 15 days earlier than Gold members and 30 days earlier than Silver members. They are also able to book new Disney cruise itineraries three days ahead of the general public.

For Platinum members, check-in opens 38 days in advance of departures.

In addition, Platinum level members are entitled to a free dinner at Palo , the upscale, adults-only Italian eatery on Disney ships — more on this in a moment.

The elite level that makes a difference

It isn't really until you hit the new Pearl level of the Castaway Club that the perks start to get interesting. The big perk at this level is that you can book new itineraries earlier than everyone else. You also have the earliest possible access to reserve onboard activities.

Specifically, you can make reservations for newly announced itineraries four days before the general public. You can also book activities up to 123 days in advance of sailing.

Related: A beginners guide to cruise line loyalty programs

In the world of Disney, this is a very big deal. As mentioned above, Disney fans are known to snag all the good cabins for a popular sailing the moment a trip goes on sale. Ditto for onboard activities.

In addition, Pearl status also lets you check in for your cruise 40 days in advance of sailing.

One more perk added for Pearl members of Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Club is a complimentary unlimited digital photo package, which is a notable perk.

Disney has lots of official photographers on board its ships to snap photos of you and your kids with princesses and the like. However, it doesn't offer those photos for free. Paying for even a relatively small number of photos taken by these onboard photographers — even in digital form — normally can cost hundreds of dollars.

Best elite perk

Unlike some lines, Disney doesn't offer any truly over-the-top elite perks, such as the free cruise that top-tier members of Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society get . It's also skimpy on handing out big discounts on shore excursions, spa treatments and other cruise line-sold services to elite members — something some other lines do. Still, there are a few perks that get us at least modestly excited.

The most enticing offering, in our view, is the free dinner that comes with Platinum status at Palo, as noted above.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

The invitation extends to the elite member and any other adult passenger staying in the same cabin. Assuming there are two of you, that's a $100 value. Palo normally costs $50 per person.

The perk can be used at either the Palo eateries found on Disney's four older ships or the Palo Steakhouse eatery on the line's new Disney Wish .

Does my Disney Castaway Club status last forever?

In a major change that took effect in early 2024, Disney Castaway Club members will no longer get "forever status" upon reaching the various tiers of the program — a notable allure of the program since its inception.

As of this year, Castaway Club members lose their Castaway Club status — and, indeed, their entire membership in the program, even at the entry level — if they don't book or complete an eligible Disney cruise at least once every five years.

As a result, if you haven't taken a Disney Cruise Line voyage in a few years, and you have high-level status in the Castaway Club that you want to preserve for the future, it might pay to book a quickie Disney voyage this year to maintain your loyalty level. Or, maybe now is the time to switch your loyalty to another family-friendly cruise brand, such as Royal Caribbean.

Bottom line

Disney Cruise Line offers a handful of decent perks to members of its Castaway Club loyalty program, including early access to new itineraries and onboard activities.

However, the Castaway Club loyalty program is not nearly as robust as the frequent cruiser programs of many other well-known brands, such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line. If you're going to sail a lot with Disney, you'll want to do it because you love the brand, not because you expect a lot of onboard recognition for your loyalty.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Disney Vacation Club Exclusive Cruises Coming in 2024

in Disney Cruise Line

Disney Vacation Club members, rejoice! Some exclusive member cruises are coming your way.

One of the most exciting ways to do a Disney vacation is by doing a Disney Cruise . The company adds its own special brand of magic to the cruising experience with exciting itineraries and destinations, your favorite characters aboard the ship, thrilling live entertainment, immersive and delicious dining experiences, and more. Disney Cruise Line recently added their newest ship, the Disney Wish, to the fleet and will soon be adding the Disney Treasure , an entire ship themed around adventure. They’re also celebrating their Silver Anniversary at Sea this year, meaning select sailings are sprinkled with additional magic .

Disney Cruise Line recently announced their summer 2024 itineraries, which include the first sailings to Lighthouse Point, joining Castaway Cay as its second private destination . The port is located on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas and promises a relaxing beach escape combined with the color and vibrancy of the Bahamas.

Bookings for general summer itineraries begin later in March and include destinations in the Caribbean, Jamaica, The Bahamas, Mexico, Alaska, Canada, Spain, Italy, France, Greece, Portugal, and more. There are even some 5-night sailings that include two trips to Lighthouse Point and one to Castaway Cay.

Additionally, Disney Cruise Line has announced two Disney Vacation Club member cruises for 2024 . From May 18-25, 2024, the Disney Dream will be taking members on a 7-night voyage to the Mediterranean, sailing out of Barcelona and stopping at ports in Italy and France. From June 14-19, the Disney Magic will sail out of Fort Lauderdale at take members on a 5-night voyage that includes two stops at Lighthouse Point and one at Castaway Cay.

There’s a difference between the two cruises beyond just the itinerary, however. The May 2024 cruise is a true Member Cruise, meaning Guests will be able to enjoy daily in-room gifts, specialty entertainment and character greetings, and more. However, the June 2024 cruise is only a member-exclusive cruise. While this does mean that only Disney Vacation Club members will be able to sail, regular cruise programming will not be altered, and in-room gifts are not included.

Booking information for these cruises will be shared soon, so keep an eye on Disney Cruise Line’s website and social media pages!

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Disney Vacation Club Announces 2025 DVC Member Cruise

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) has announced the 2025 DVC Member Cruise to the Western Caribbean with dates and itineraries aboard the Disney Dream!

2025 Member Cruise- Western Caribbean on the Disney Dream

Join the 2025 Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise to the Western Caribbean! Set sail on a 5-night Disney Cruise Line voyage from Fort Lauderdale, FL on August 2, 2025, exploring vibrant tropical spots and making a debut Member Cruise stop in Cozumel.

Explore the scheduled itinerary for the 2025 Member Cruise to the Western Caribbean:

• Saturday, August 2, 2025 –Depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
• Sunday, August 3, 2025 –Enjoy a day at sea filled with unique experiences and special shows created with Members in mind.
• Monday, August 4, 2025 –Arrive in Cozumel, Mexico, an island paradise renowned for its beautiful beaches, turquoise water and protected coral reefs.
• Tuesday, August 5, 2025 –Enjoy another leisurely day at sea filled with unique experiences and special shows created with Members in mind.
• Wednesday, August 6, 2025 –Arrive at Disney Castaway Cay, a private island paradise exclusive to Disney Cruise Line.
• Thursday, August 7, 2025 –Debark in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

This sailing is part of the Summer 2025 Disney Cruise Line itineraries that were recently announced.

Pricing and Points Chart

Cash pricing and Points Chart for the 2025 DVC Member Cruise will be available at a later time.

Booking Information

Member Services will be open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, EST on Saturday – April 13th, to exclusively support 2025 DVC Member Cruise reservations, as well as assist with any DVC Resort reservations within the next 5 days. Longer than usual wait times can be expected during this period.

During your phone call and to expedite the booking process, be sure to have the following information ready and available:

• Member ID Number
• First, second and third stateroom category choices—popular options sell out quickly for this event
• Special dietary needs
• Special medical needs
• Castaway Club Number (provided to repeat cruisers by Disney Cruise Line)

For each person sailing on the Member Cruise, please have the following information ready:

• Legal name and middle initial, spelled as it appears in print on appropriate citizenship documentation
• Physical home address (no P.O. boxes)
• Home telephone number
• Date of birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
• Citizenship/nationality

After your initial call is complete, you will receive a follow-up within 72 hours to finalize the payment process and fully secure the booking.

Members will once again have the option to pay for the 2025 DVC Member Cruise via cash or points, with no minimum point requirement to book this sailing. DVC will accept the following payment methods for this sailing: Disney gift card, JCB, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover. 

Please note, DVC Member Cruises are considered a Disney Vacation Club –  Membership Extra  and can only be booked by direct members with a valid digital membership card with “DVC-Y” designation.

The original anticipation for this cruise was that it would either be on Disney’s newest ship of 2025 (Treasure) or on an older ship with a stop at the new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point . Let us know your thoughts on this 2025 member cruise itinerary!

Also, be sure to check out all of our coverage from the  2023 DVC Member Cruise aboard the Disney Wish!

Stay tuned to  DVC Fan , and the  DVC Fan Facebook Group for more information as it becomes available!  

Amy Krieger

Amy loves Disney theme parks, resorts, and the beloved films. She and her husband, Paul, are originally from West Virginia (near Pittsburgh, PA). They now live in Central Florida with their Spanish galgos, Hermes, Cinders, and Emerson. As DVC members and WDW Annual Passholders, they visit Disney properties as often as possible. Amy is the Manager of Loan Origination for Monera Financial, a World of DVC company, where she helps buyers finance DVC contracts. Amy and Paul own DVC at some of their favorite resorts: BoardWalk, Grand Floridian, Animal Kingdom, Polynesian, and Grand Californian. Another passion for them is cruising. They love both Disney and Royal Caribbean cruises. It's a great way to travel and see parts of the world.

One thought on “ Disney Vacation Club Announces 2025 DVC Member Cruise ”

Are there any tips on how to secure a reservation on the member sailings? “Longer than usual wait times” but do we call right when it opens or beforehand? Clearly they sell out quickly, but new kids wondering just what to prep ourselves for!

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• Disney Cruise Line

DVC S.S. Member Cruise - Is it worth it?

By HomeMadePizza , October 20, 2009 in Disney Cruise Line

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HomeMadePizza

I have a question for those of you who have done the DVC "S.S. Member" Cruise in the past.

It doesn't take a math genius to do the calculating and realize that they are charging significantly more points night (or if you're paying cash, more dollars per night) for this "DVC Members Only" cruise, than you would pay to go on a similar Disney cruise during the same season. Depending on the stateroom category, this cruise is around 25%-35% more expensive per night.

So... is it worth it? What extra value do they provide for this premium? Can someone who has been on both types of cruise ("normal" and "DVC S.S. Member") give specific examples of what you're getting for the extra money?

It's a little off-putting because they don't really explain why it's so expensive. I know I'm being a bit cynical here, but it's like they're hoping I won't notice that it costs more because I've already bought into their confusing little points system -- almost an insult, really. Like they expect I've stopped thinking about cost, now that I'm a DVC member.

I mean, the whole point of joining the DVC is that it's supposed to be a better deal than paying the rack rate, in exchange for being willing to commit funds to Disney up front.

If they're going to squeeze us DVC members (hoping we're not paying attention, perhaps,) now that we're locked in, then I'm going to quickly become an unhappy DVC member.

Does anyone have any light to shed on this mysteriously expensive cruise?

Thanks much!

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We haven't been on any of these member cruises. To me this cruise is way to high in points for just going to Castaway Cays 2 times. If you book this cruise you cannot really look at the ports they go to. What the attraction is the activiites while on board. I have talked with other members who had taken this cruise said they will only do this cruise once. They commented that they enjoyed the cruise and all the activities on board and they felt very satisifed.

We went on the 2006 Member Cruise. While there is no denying that it is steeper in price that a normal cruise, there are some advantages. There are special programs/activities developed for the member cruise. Special guests on our cruise included Jennifer Hudson, Jodi Benson and Roy Disney. And you need an extra suitcase for all the gifts (something different each night). Plus traveling with fellow guests who are all DVC owners are therefore are vested in Disney. We were lucky on our cruise, as there were people on the DIS Board cruise thread who organized a number of group activities, so we met some wonderful people. Would we do it again? I'm not sure, but for us there are other issues. We're spoiled by the longer cruises. Maybe we might if we combine it with a trip to WDW. Did I consider it points well spent for that one time.

We haven't been on any of these member cruises. To me this cruise is way too high in points for just going to Castaway Cay 2 times.

Actually, Castaway Cay was the only port I fully enjoyed on our 7-day cruise. Free beach access (with chairs) and gorgeous crystal clear water. Check. No locals pestering you for money. Check.

I don't place much weight in ports of call anyway. I was asking more to learn about the onboard differences. ie, is the food better than on a normal Disney cruise, is there a better variety of more engaging adult activities, etc.

There are special programs/activities developed for the member cruise. [...] And you need an extra suitcase for all the gifts (something different each night).

I don't really understand what that means; Could you give more specific examples of the special programs and gifts?

Thanks again!

I don't really understand what that means; Could you give more specific examples of the special programs and gifts?   Thanks again!

Gifts: We were showered with gifts that we would find on our beds each night. We were treated to different Pins, Mickey Ears, and other commemorative items of the cruise. Some really nice gifts. The challenge was that there was so much stuff, you literally needed an extra suitcase to get it all home.

Programs: Guest speakers such as Roy Disney and Jim Lewis (VP DVC) were on board to give special presentations. Disney's was especially wonderful as he was able to give personal insights to his father and uncle. And as I said one of the evening shows included performances by Academy Award winner, American Idol contestant and former DCL performer Jennifer Hudson and Jodi Benson, the voice of Ariel.

For everyone's edification (including mine), the DVC did eventually respond to my rather direct inquiry on this subject. Here is what they had to say:

Thank you for contacting Member Services.

We appreciate your interest in the 2010 Member Cruise. The Vacation

Points needed for the Member Cruise are higher then any of the other 4

night Disney Cruises because we include the Gratuity for your Server,

Assistant Server, Head Server, and Stateroom Host/Hostess . The regular

4 night Disney Cruises do not include the Gratuities. We include the

Gratuities so that it one less thing that you have to worry about while

on the Member Cruise.

Please let us know if we can be of any further assistance.

Member Services | Online Communications

Disney Vacation Club

Ok, I can accept that as a legitimate answer. Sort of. I mean, for a four-day cruise, the total gratuities for two adults would only total about $100. But the cruise costs about $300-$400 more worth of points, depending on how nice a stateroom you get. So that's only a partial answer. The extra gifts and special entertainment may make up most of the rest of the difference. (One would hope.)

But, why not just state all this openly on the DVC cruise brochure ? Why keep an incentive secret from the very people you're trying to incentivize? I just don't get it. If the perks and incentives are so great, why aren't they throwing them in our faces to convince us? This is atypical behavior for Disney. Again, it makes me feel like they're trying to gloss over cost-to-value details that they'd prefer we not think about too hard.

I guess I'm beating a dead horse, as the majority of responders so far have pretty much agreed that while it might be worth doing once just to say you've done it, it may not really be worth repeating due to the value-per-points issue. I suppose I have all the information I need to make an informed decision at this point. I just wanted to share Disney's response with everyone, in case anyone else was thinking about going and the "free gratuities" news swings anyone's vote.

There are so many price changes, on every week during the year, that it may only reflect what week was chosen for club members. The fact that is EXCLUSIVE to only club members, should extract a Premium for members only. Now we are exclusive Castaway Cay members, and each time we cruise, we recieve spcial benefits. If you feel the price is too high, you can choose not to Go! You could then use your points on a non exclusive, less exspensive week. As often as we are presented with the Disney Vacation Club stuff, I've failed to see any substantial benefits. I can still LOOK, and BOOK a vacation around the world, and end up with a Terrific vacation. Metrowon

There are so many price changes, on every week during the year, that it may only reflect what week was chosen for club members.

The two cruises I was using for price comparison literally bookend the DVC Member cruise. The first one left Sat and returned Tues. Then on Tues, the DVC cruise begins and returns Sat. Then on Sat. through Tues the next cruise begins.

So, no, the time of year ("busy" season) was not a factor in my price comparison.

The fact that is EXCLUSIVE to only club members, should extract a Premium for members only.

Since DVC membership isn't selective in any way, I don't follow your reasoning here. You're suggesting that DVC members are better behaved, or more agreeable to cruise with in some way, than non-DVC members. That's a premise with which I can't agree.

If you feel the price is too high, you can choose not to Go !

Yes, thanks. I realize that. I wasn't complaining about the price. If you read carefully, I was in fact merely inquiring whether anyone knows what we get for the higher price , so that I would have enough information to make that determination for myself.

You could then use your points on a non exclusive, less exspensive week.

Again, thanks, but I know how to utilize my membership points, and what they can be used for, and when.

I'm sure you were just trying to help me realize some obvious truisms about value, and decision making, and the way DVC works.

So... thanks, but your "help" was not needed in this area... Sorry!

cruise_newbie

Homemadepizza,

I have to say for the most part I agree with your arguments, in fact my husband and I were having a very similar discussion when we noticed how many more points are needed, and were thinking, why would we use more points for this when we can go another week for less. After reading the posts, I'm still not sure we would pay the extra points. There are even other cruises with 2 stops at Castaway Cay if that's what you want to do.

However, bottom line for Disney is this, they sell out for this thing every year. It's so popular that the lines are totally clogged the day they open up bookings. They don't spend a lot of time promoting the value because they don't need to.

I would also add that in our experience with Disney (over 13 years) both as DVC members and even before when we just went to Disney the regular way, Disney would not send you on something like this, only to try to rip you off. Disney does things right, and I would trust this to be a special experience. I'm still not sure if it's for us, but obviously a lot of people love this cruise and are willing to put up the extra points for the unique experience.

Pizza, I have to say, we've wondered exactly the same thing. If you read the reviews on the disboards (am I allowed to mention other boards?), you would almost think this is the only cruise worth doing it is so wonderful. Everyone raves about it. So far, for us, the hassle of getting up early on the first morning it is offered and calling over and over in hopes of getting on the cruise is more of a deterrent than the points or money needed. We also generally prefer longer cruises, so as long as the member cruise is just 3 or 4 days, it is less interesting to us.

That said, we will probably try to book it some time, just to try it for ourselves. I can see how the special guests (whom I believe are generally kept secret until the trip starts) could make it a unique experience, and I understand that the special surprises and gifts can be really exciting. I'll be interested to see what other responses you get...

As someone who has never booked the member cruise, my observations:

First, I think it is lousy of DVC to book their special member cruises during the height of hurricane season. If they truly wanted the DVC members to feel special, how about having the cruise when people don't have to take their children out of school or worry about a hurricane?

(For the record, we don't have children, but for the many that do, it is a factor).

Second, the draw of cruising with many many like-minded people is scary and fun both at the same time.

I am not sure it would be all that fun!;)

Third, I would have to receive a boatload of stuff that I could actually use to justify the cost of these special member cruises.

Fourth, I have heard that on at least one member cruise they held everyone up from going to CC in order to finish their hard sell on DVC add-ons. Again, I did not experience this personally, just heard from members that this happened. :eek:

We have been on 3 regular Disney cruises and one DVC members cruise and we decided not to go back to another DVC member cruise. First, it was very unique compared to regulard Disney crusies. Everything was DVC oriented, the communications, the Welcome Home signs, the special entertainment, speakers and various shipboard programs. We were even in the buffet line with Jim Lewis and got to chat with him a bit. To us it was a chance to check it out and see what it was like. We truly enjoyed the trip but decided the extra cost and most importantly the increased emphasis on marketing DVC was too much.

In reading previous DVC cruise reviews and then more recent ones it's very obvious they have imbeded more and more marketing in their activities and programs. To us this was once a DVC attribute, to have things be more casual, to be informative but not marketing heavy.

We feel that has changed and it's become much to direct. More hard sell than we enjoy. In one large program we attended on the DVC cruise it got so bad we actually left the theatre. I was very disappointed and at that moment we decided not to participate in any more DVC member cruises unless that changed and the cruise cost became more reasonable.

So try it, maybe you'll like it. You can also buy cash cabins and not use your points which may make more sense financially. Then decide for your selves! Good luck!

• 3 years later...

sushigirl53

A single friend of ours who is a DVC member has asked me to go with her as her guest on a DVC members only cruise in Sept. If I decide to go (and if DH will agree to me going on a cruise without him! :D), I will need some advice since I am clueless about Disney cruises in general and DVC cruises in particular. DH and I usually cruise RCCL and, occasionally, CCL. I am NOT interested in joining DVC as we are already members of RCI vacation club. I would just be tagging along with my friend as a traveling companion.

I love cruising and seeing new places and exploring new ports of call, but I understand that this particular cruise ONLY goes to Disney's private island, Castaway Cay - not once, but TWICE! :eek: What's up with that? :confused: You go to CC then leave and go do donuts in the ocean for a day and then go back to CC??? You don't even get to go to Nassau? Well, that's disappointing. At least tell me that there is decent snorkeling on CC, please. :D

I am curious about the Disney cruise experience and seeing how it compares with our past experiences with RCCL and CCL. So, there is a chance that I may go to see the ship and get a feel for the whole Disney cruise.

Any thoughts from any of you seasoned DCL cruisers?

• 4 months later...

My two cents on the DVC Members Cruise. It is not worth the additional money if you don't have that kind of money to spend. If that extra money causes you no pain then it will be worth it. Disney will certainly add enough extras to make it great.

There are dozen of spreadsheets that show that the DVC leans in Disney's favor, not the members. Same for the Dining Plan sold with room reservations. Sure, if certain conditions are met both can work financially in your favor but don't kid yourself, you are paying a premium. And Disney is not offering you these programs as goodwill, they are in business to make money.

So if you are like me and have to ask is it worth it. Then it isn't.

I will say this. My very small DVC Membership (bought in the secondary market) provides me with the same benefits as those with very deep pockets (who purchased directly from Disney) and that is something I found to be worthwhile.

moki'smommy

The member cruises started out totally fantastic with many Disney "celebs" and other special guests and LOTS of quality goodies in the staterooms each night. They booked very quickly (that's why a second members only cruise was added). No question they are significantly more costly than a "normal" cruise at the same season.

However, thru the years, the quality has diminished. The guest are stars who don't all shine as brightly, the give-aways are lessening. "Worth it" is always a personal decision, but if your goal is money/points, it is more expensive. The decreasing quality means that we're not interested any more.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Set sail next summer on a members only disney cruise.

Posted by: Eva Miller March 25, 2023

In these cold winter months, it’s easy to start daydreaming of a warm vacation on the water. Nothing sounds better during this gloomy season than basking in the sunshine at a gorgeous beach location. Many families cure the wintertime blues with a summer cruise vacation on one of the incredible Disney Cruises.

This summer, Disney Cruises is offering two cruises that will be accessible exclusively to Disney Vacation Club members.

Credit: Disney

Members Only Cruise’s for Summer 2024

Are you a Disney Vacation Club Member looking to plan an incredible vacation this summer? If so, then look no further than the Disney Cruise Line’s exclusive member cruises for the summer of 2024. These two cruises are incredible journeys that come with a lot of benefits for members.

The first trip is a member-exclusive cruise through the Mediterranean. This cruise is on the Disney Dream ship. The itinerary will kick off on May 18 in Barcelona, Spain. From there, the ship will set off to Naples, Italy where Guests will be able to explore Pompeii on May 20. On May 21 Guests will explore Civitavecchia, Rome, Italy. On the 22, they will sit down in Lovomo, where Guests can see Florence and Pisa. On May 23, the boat will dock in Villefranche, where Guests can see Monte Carlo and Nice. The ship will then turn around and head back to Barcelona, Spain.

The second cruise is not a member exclusive but is available for Disney Vacation Club Members. This trip embarks on June 14 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. From there, the ship will travel to Lighthouse Point on June 15, Disney Castaway Cay on June 16, and back to Lighthouse Point on June 17. The ship returns to Fort Lauderdale on June 19.

Disney Vacation Club and Disney Cruise Line announced two member cruises for 2024: May 2024: Disney Dream 7-night Mediterranean cruise June 2024: Disney Magic 5-night Lighthouse Point twice, Castaway Cay once Booking details will be shared soon. pic.twitter.com/LnDIrh0Oi3 — Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) March 24, 2023

A Perfect DVC Trip

Both of these trips sound absolutely amazing. Guests are likely going to want to secure these cruises as soon as possible.

About Eva Miller

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June 2, 2024

Disney Cruise Line Information

DCL Fan is your source for Disney Cruise Line Information, News, and Discounts

Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club Membership Levels

The Castaway Club is Disney Cruise Line’s loyalty rewards program for repeat cruisers. DCL grants membership the moment a guest completes their first cruise. Membership comes with perks, and the more cruises you take, the more perks you can get.

Like all loyalty programs, Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Club has several levels – three to be exact: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Your status is based on the number of cruises you have completed. 

Silver: Guests who have completed 1-5 voyages with Disney Cruise Line. On your 5th cruise, you are still considered Silver. However, the moment you step off the ship from your 5th sailing you are immediately upgraded to Gold status.

Check out some retired Castaway Club merchandise and gifts here.

Gold: Guests who have completed 6-9 voyages with Disney Cruise Line.

Platinum: Guests who have completed 10 cruises. Again, your 10th cruise will be your final Gold-level cruise, and afterward, you will be Platinum.

Castaway Club Membership Perks

Disney grants perks to guests based on their membership level. The higher the level, the more perks you will receive. 

Silver: 

• Book new itineraries 1 day earlier than the general public and cruise activities 90 days prior to sailing.
• Unique Castaway Club member communications
• Dedicated Castaway Club phone number
• Exclusive cruise terminal check-in (where available)
• Welcome Back Aboard gift
• Book new itineraries 2 days earlier than the general public and cruise activities 105 days prior to sailing.
• All Silver member benefits
• Special discounts (See next section)
• Book new itineraries 3 days earlier than the general public and cruise activities 120 days prior to sailing.
• All Gold and Silver member benefits
• Complimentary dinner at Palo for you and guests sailing in your stateroom. 

About Those Onboard Discounts

Even if this is your first cruise, always ask the crew member about discounts when making purchases. Disney Vacation Club members, Disney Visa Cardholders, and other Disney affinity groups have access to discounts on qualifying purchases onboard Disney Cruise Line. But you have to ask!

Castaway Club Perks That Have Sailed Away

Perks come, and perks go. Some perks disappeared during the pandemic and have yet to make a reappearance. 

• Gold and Platinum Onboard Reception (for cruises 8 nights or longer) : This has been “paused” since the resumption of cruising operations, and we have not heard of its return at this time.
• Advance check-in:  Before the pandemic, Castaway Club members had access to early cruise check-in at the same time they booked onboard activities and Port Adventure. Now all guests are eligible to check in 30 days prior to sailing. This means everyone has an equal shot at grabbing a coveted early Port Arrival Time.
• Special Merchandise: This is an unofficial report. On my last cruise ( Disney Dream – May 2022) I did not see any merchandise for Castaway Club members in any gift shop. The selection was always small – usually a mug, cap, or maybe a t-shirt – but it seems to be missing now. If you’ve seen any merch, let us know!

Gifts change from time to time. Below is the beach bag that I received in 2016. The previous bag was from a 2010 European Sailing.

Platinum (and Beyond)

Until recently, Disney Cruise Line has only recognized three main levels of membership: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. However, as DCL ages, the number of Platinum Level Castaway Club members has increased.

When booking opened up for the Disney Wish , we were all expecting tiered opening dates based on Castaway Club level, but DCL threw in a little curveball. Platinum members were divided into four groups:

• Members with 25+ cruises
• Members with 20+ cruises
• Members with 15+ cruises
• Members with 10+ cruises

Each sub-group had its own date to begin booking on the newest ship. The result: The Inaugural sailing was sold out the morning that Platinum members with 10+ cruises could book.

Castaway Club Program Benefits

What do you think about Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Club? Have you enjoyed the perks and gifts? What would you like to see DCL do differently with its loyalty program ?

About Post Author

Melanie Clatfelter

Melanie is the mom of three young adults. She is a native Floridian who now lives in North Carolina. She is a Gold Castaway Club Member who has sailed on all four of the current ships at least once and is ready to set sail on the Disney Wish this fall.

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No kidding: These 12 cruises are the perfect multigenerational family vacation option

T he launch of Disney Cruise Line in 1998 was a game changer for family cruises. Now in its third decade of operation, Disney Cruise Line consistently tops the list of best cruise lines for families. And its newest ship (for now), Disney Wish , is unquestionably one of the best cruise ships for kids ever made. But Disney isn't the only major player in the family cruising space. 

A host of other cruise lines, including Carnival Cruises , Princess , Norwegian , MSC , and Royal Caribbean , have helped usher in a new era of family vacations on cruise ships with amenities like kids clubs, water parks, stage shows, theatrical dining experiences, reduced fares for young children, and even kids sail free deals . And because the best cruise ships for kids are also great for grownups , you have plenty of options when it comes to the best family cruises. 

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1. Disney Wish

Disney Cruise Line

The sheer volume of onboard entertainment options for families on Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, Disney Wish , takes things to a whole new level. From action-packed dinner-and-a-show experiences like Worlds of Marvel and Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure to the Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge , and Incredibles-themed inflatable obstacle course , you'll never run out of things to do. 

BIG SAVINGS: Kids sail free: 7 cruise lines with kids cruise free deals this year

Sailings on the Disney Wish also include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay , which is always a highlight of any family cruise. Castaway Cay’s family beach is a great place for swimming, and you can rent bikes, kayaks, and snorkeling gear to see colorful tropical fish and perhaps even a sea turtle munching on seagrass.

2. Disney Magic

While every ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet has a claim to be among the best family cruises, the original DCL family cruise ship deserves a special mention: Disney Magic is the ship that launched Disney Cruise Line in 1998, and with DCL's constant improvements and upkeep, the ship doesn’t feel outdated at all. Pirates, princesses, superheroes, and a thrilling water slide with a three-story drop are just a few of the fun features that make this a kid-favorite ship on one of the best cruise lines for families. In 2013, Disney added the AquaDunk high-speed thrill slide and Marvel Avengers Academy kids club. In 2018, a Tangled dinner theater restaurant made its debut. 

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As one of the smaller ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, Disney Magic can be a less overwhelming experience for younger kids and first-time cruisers, especially given the trend among family cruises to be bigger and louder with every new ship. (The fabulous Disney Wonder is similarly sized.) But there's more than one reason to consider a Disney Magic voyage in 2024. This year, the ship will be the first to sail to Disney Cruise Line’s newest private island destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , in the Bahamas.

3. Disney Treasure

Making its debut in December 2024, Disney Cruise Line's sixth ship will be called Disney Treasure and it will be the ship for fans of the Disney theme parks. Venues inspired by classic attractions such as the Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea are among the highlights to look forward to when the ship sets sail. The sister ship of Disney Wish will also have a high-tech Worlds of Marvel dinner show and a theater-in-the-round dining experience, this time themed to Pixar’s Coco. 

CAPTAIN MICKEY: 7 best Disney cruises for families in 2024  

Disney Treasure will also feature a brand-new original Broadway-style production called "Disney The Tale of Moana" in the Walt Disney Theatre. Other shows performed on board will include "Beauty and the Beast" and "Disney Seas the Adventure." Best of all, Disney Treasure will sail seven-night itineraries to both the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean. That means you can enjoy two distinct dinner shows in the Worlds of Marvel and Plaza de Coco restaurants, and all of the Broadway-style shows on stage during one family cruise. 

4. Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean

A brand-new class of ship is heading to North America in 2024, and it starts with Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas in January. Among the many firsts for Icon of the Seas is the AquaDome, the largest glass and steel structure on any cruise ship, seven pools, six record-breaking waterslides, eight separate neighborhoods, 40 ways to drink and dine, four stages, and a three-level ultimate family townhouse. The innovative AquaDome is a peaceful oasis during the day and a vibrant hotspot at night with a 55-foot-tall water curtain and AquaTheater that debuts performances with divers, skateboarders, and robots. 

FAMILY CRUISES: 5 best cruise ships to entertain your teen  

Thrill-seekers will love Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea with six waterslides. There's also the Crown’s Edge, which is part skywalk, part ropes course, and 100 percent thrill ride where you can dangle 154 feet above the ocean. And, of course, you'll also find the Royal Caribbean staple FlowRider surf simulator and the Lost Dunes mini golf course. Those looking to take it easy should head to Chill Island, which features four pools spread over three decks with sweeping ocean views.

Fans of Royal Caribbean will enjoy the Royal Promenade with 15 restaurants, bars, and lounges; Central Park's open-air neighborhood filled with live plants and trees; and Surfside, the first neighborhood designed specifically for young families. The ship's seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean family cruises all stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay , the line’s award-winning private island. Families will find an array of activities on Perfect Day at CocoCay, such as its beaches and freshwater pool (included) and an expansive water park and zip line (available for an extra charge).

5. Wonder of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class ships debuted in early 2022 and instantly ignited buzz that they might be the most kid-friendly cruise ships in the entire world. At 1,188 feet long and 18 decks tall, there's plenty of room for families to spread out and find entertainment onboard the Wonder of the Seas . Two dedicated private teen spaces onboard make vacationing with teenagers a little easier. In fact, teens aged 16 and up can even enjoy a massive teens-only hot tub that literally protrudes over the edge of the ship on Wonder of the Seas' deck 15. 

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Grade school kids and even the littlest ones have it pretty great, too. For big kids, there’s an enormous multiple-deck play area called Wonder Playscape . For the youngest passengers, there's the Adventure Ocean play area full of soft toys and games for toddlers. And a playground with climbing equipment gives them a space to work off their energy. Wonder of the Seas also has the most amazing family suites around. They come complete with two levels of space, an in-suite slide, table tennis, and plenty of room for the whole family.

6. Oasis of the Seas

When it launched in 2009, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas was the largest ship in the world, accommodating more than 5,500 passengers per voyage and cementing the line's place among the best cruise lines for families. After a reimagining 10 years later, Oasis of the Seas is still a popular option for family cruises in 2024 with its Caribbean-inspired pool deck, rock climbing walls, and Perfect Storm trio of multistory waterslides. Among the many reasons that make Royal Caribbean one of the best cruise lines for families is that its Symphony of the Seas builds upon the strengths of the line’s other Oasis Class ships. 

7. Norwegian Viva

Norwegian Cruise Line

What makes Norwegian one of the best cruise lines for families? For one thing, you’ll never hear "I’m bored" from kids. And with its three-story race track, two escape rooms, The Rush and The Drop dry slides, The Wave waterslide, immersive virtual reality games, Topgolf simulator, mini golf, waterpark, splash ground, and kids’ clubs, your family’s biggest problem on the Norwegian Viva might just be deciding how to balance all the activities with quiet relaxation. 

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The Norwegian Viva arrived in North America in December 2023 and offers Caribbean cruises from San Juan, Puerto Rico, in early 2024 before heading to Europe through November. The ship's Observation Lounge has panoramic 180-degree views to soak in the scenery or take Insta-worthy photos on Oceanwalk’s glass walkway. After playing the day away in port or on the ship, your family can enjoy dinner followed by a live performance of Beetlejuice: The Musical, based on the cult-classic Tim Burton film.

8. Carnival Panorama

Carnival Cruise Line

One of Carnival Cruise Line ’s newer ships, the Carnival Panorama 's many kid-friendly features have already made it one of the best cruises for families. The Panorama has supervised kids programs in three different age categories, a massive aqua park, the popular SkyRide aerial attraction, SkyCourse ropes course, and the first SkyZone trampoline park at sea. 

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In addition, Carnival's exclusive partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises provides "Seuss at Sea" experiences on family cruise vacations, such as Dr. Seuss Bookville, Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, and the Seuss-a-palooza Parade. Based in Los Angeles, Carnival Panorama sails week-long round-trip cruises to the Mexican Riviera in 2024.

9. Caribbean Princess

Princess Cruises

Made famous by the classic '80s TV series "The Love Boat," Princess Cruises now hosts more than two million passengers each year. Kid-friendly Caribbean Princess underwent an extensive renovation in 2017 that boosted its family offerings to include Camp Discovery Youth and Teen Center, HD Movies Under the Stars, and the Reef Family Splash Zone (the line's first splash zone at sea). 

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Caribbean Princess will be 20 years old in 2024, but another extensive drydock refurbishment in 2022 has kept the ship from feeling dated. Other features that earn the Caribbean Princess a spot on my list of best family cruises include its partnership with Discovery Inc. for "Discovery at SEA" activities, which feature Animal Planet and Discovery Channel programming, the Stanley the Bear experience, and JrChef@Sea cooking classes. In summer 2024, Caribbean Princess heads to Southampton for a series of European cruises before heading back to Florida.

10. MSC Meraviglia

Unless you're a hardcore cruise family, MSC Cruises might be the largest cruise line you’ve never heard of. One of the leading cruise lines in Europe, South America, and other parts of the world, MSC is working hard to get a foothold in North America by offering great deals on family cruises. These include kids ages 18 and under sailing free on select departures , and young children ages two and under always sailing free. 

FIRST-TIMERS: 19 things to know before your first cruise with kids  

Family-friendly MSC Meraviglia launched in 2017 and it features seven different kids’ clubs for children from babies to age 17. Teens have their own space with a cinema, game room, and live stage. And Meraviglia’s Polar Aquapark has three different waterslides, including a high-speed “champagne flute,” that easily make it one of the best cruises for families. Families can play together in the vast entertainment area that includes an MSC Formula One Racing Simulator, a full-sized bowling alley with two lanes, an interactive XD cinema, a flight simulator, and a video games arcade. There’s also a Sportsplex facility for basketball, tennis, squash, volleyball, pickleball, mini golf, and five-a-side soccer.

11. MSC Seascape

MSC Cruises

The U.S. flagship of the MSC Cruises brand, MSC Seascape was designed with families in mind and offers plenty of options for onboard entertainment. The cruise line's partnership with LEGO includes a DUPLO room for children ages three to six and a second LEGO room for kids ages seven to 11 with the opportunity to earn a LEGO Master Builder certificate. Teens have three different themed areas to engage with their peers. 

BRING THE LITTLE ONES: 10 toddler-friendly vacations that are just as much fun for parents  

You have to check out Robotron on these family cruises. Robotron is a robotic arm ride that sends you 173 feet above the sea, giving you a unique 360-degree view as you're moved in different directions and flipped upside down. At night, Robotron offers a personalized DJ experience where you can curate your musical journey with colors and music preferences. 

MSC Seascape sails from Miami on the Bahamas and Caribbean family cruises, including a visit to MSC Cruises' private Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Ocean Cay features two miles of white sand beaches and a variety of family-friendly activities such as snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming. Some family cruises dock overnight at Ocean Cay, allowing you to watch the spectacular Lighthouse light show.

12. Celebrity Equinox

Celebrity Cruises

An upscale cruise line with prices to match, Celebrity Cruises appeals to families with older children or multigenerational groups looking for luxurious family cruises. Celebrity Equinox is not the newest ship in the line (its inaugural sailing was in 2009), but this kid-friendly cruise ship received an extensive overhaul as part of the "Celebrity Revolution" in 2019 and continues to impress with its family cruises in 2024. 

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Celebrity's Camp at Sea kids' program offers a diverse and constantly changing series of activities so that it’s "never the same camp twice." And Celebrity Equinox partners with Miami’s Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science to offer STEM programming on topics such as the importance of plankton to the Earth’s oceans. Other kid-friendly activities on Celebrity’s family cruises include hot glass blowing classes and demonstrations, as well as lawn games such as croquet and bocce on the real grass of the Lawn Club.

7 great cruise lines for families (and their 12 most kid-friendly ships) originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: No kidding: These 12 cruises are the perfect multigenerational family vacation option

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2024 Member "First Wave" Sailing to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

Set sail aboard the Disney Magic for a 5-night cruise that will transport you to the glorious sun, sea and sand of The Bahamas. Enjoy unmatched Disney Cruise Line hospitality, then unwind amid the charm and splendor of Disney Castaway Cay and our all-new island paradise—Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point! 

Booking is now available.

Chart a Course for Paradise

Relax… play... and vacation your way as you discover the delights of Disney's 2 incredible private island destinations. Come aboard the Disney Magic and sail off to paradise, enjoying live entertainment, themed dining and refreshing pools. Then come ashore and explore the beachfront fun of Disney Castaway Cay and our brand-new destination—Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, featuring adult-exclusive and family beaches, a kids’ club and lots more.

Here's the scheduled itinerary for the 2024 Member Exclusive Voyage to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point:

• Friday, June 14, 2024 – Depart from Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Saturday, June 15, 2024 – Arrive at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
• Sunday, June 16, 2024 – Arrive at Disney Castaway Cay
• Monday, June 17, 2024 – Arrive at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
• Tuesday, June 18, 2024 – Day at Sea
• Wednesday, June 19, 2024 – Return to Fort Lauderdale, FL

Created with your entire family in mind, the Disney Magic combines classic nostalgia and modern amenities with Disney’s signature service. Step aboard for spacious staterooms that ensure everyone’s comfort. Get lost in original Broadway-quality entertainment. Indulge in first-rate dining. From bow to stern, set sail for unforgettable storytelling that only Disney could bring to life.

Onboard Fun Delight in an unforgettable vacation aboard the Disney Magic, where there’s always something happening around every corner—including extraordinary entertainment, imaginative recreation and decadent dining.

• Entertainment
• Youth Clubs
• Fitness Center
• Sports Deck

Staterooms On the Disney Magic, your stateroom is your own private retreat—a comfortable, family-size getaway, immaculately appointed and smartly designed to let you stretch out in style and comfort.

• Concierge – Spacious and lavish beyond compare, Concierge staterooms feature separate bedrooms, first-class amenities and unparalleled service.
• Verandah – Breathe in the ocean air from these richly appointed staterooms designed for families of 3 to 5 – featuring a private balcony and sweeping sea views.
• Oceanview – Unwind in roomy quarters adorned in a charming nautical motif with Art Deco flourishes – plus one or 2 portholes for admiring the scenery.
• Inside – Sail away in a generous-sized stateroom embellished with artwork, warm wood finishes, custom fabrics and beds fitted with fine Egyptian cotton linens.

Learn more about Disney Cruise Line

Learn more about the Disney Magic

Call Member Services at (800) 800-9800 or (407) 566-3800 † to book your spot.

Dedicated Support for Member-Exclusive Voyage Bookings

Member Services will be open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Eastern Time on April 22 to book reservations for the 2024 Member-Exclusive Voyage to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and 2024 Member Cruise  only —as well as to assist with any Resort arrivals occurring within 5 days of the April 22 date. Due to the popularity of these Member-exclusive cruises, you may experience longer-than-usual wait times.

Member Services will reopen with normal operations at 9:00 AM Eastern Time on Sunday, April 23 to support all Membership requests.

An Improved Booking Process

As we continue to improve and respond to feedback from our Members, we have adjusted our Member-Exclusive Voyage Booking Day process to improve our ability to quickly secure your space during your initial inbound phone call.

After your initial inbound call, a Member Services Cast Member will contact you within 72 hours of Member-Exclusive Voyage Booking Day to finalize the payment of Points, or a combination of Points and cash, and to fully secure the booking.

Simplify Your Booking Phone Call

To make your booking phone call go smoothly, please have information on hand about yourself and each person sailing with your party, including:

• Member ID Number
• First, second and third stateroom category choices, as popular options sell out quickly for this event
• Special dietary needs
• Special medical needs
• Castaway Club Number (provided to repeat cruisers by Disney Cruise Line)

For each person sailing on the Member-Exclusive Voyage, please have the following information ready:

• Legal name and middle initial, spelled as it appears in print on appropriate citizenship documentation
• Physical home address (no P.O. boxes)
• Home telephone number
• Date of birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
• Citizenship/nationality

To assist in your planning, you may wish to visit the Disney Cruise Line  site to view the ship layouts and general locations associated with the categories offered.

Find out the booking information and general rules concerning this 2024 Member-Exclusive Voyage to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Please keep in mind that all reservations are subject to availability.

Please note:

• Member Services will reach out to collect payment before May 13, 2023.
• Booking requests will not be accepted by fax, email, live chat or Member Online Booking—or in person at the Disney Vacation Club Member Lounge at EPCOT or the Disney Vacation Club Star View Station – a Member Lounge at Disneyland Park. Call Member Services at (800) 800-9800 or (407) 566-3800 † to book your spot.
• Additional fees may apply for recreational activities and Port Adventures.
• As this Member-Exclusive Voyage to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is part of the Disney Collection exchange, one person in the travel party must be paid for using only Reservation Points. Other members of the travel party can be paid for using cash. (Reservation Points and cash cannot be combined to pay for an individual Guest.)
• Disney Vacation Club will waive the initial transaction fee associated with booking your Disney Cruise Line reservation for this Member-Exclusive Voyage to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
• Disney Vacation Club will accept the following methods of payment for Members not using Reservation Points to book the cruise: Disney Gift Card, JCB, Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover. If paying by credit card, please have the credit card number, expiration date and the name that appears on the card available. Full payment is required at the time of call-back.
• For the safety of our Guests, women who have entered their 24th week of pregnancy as of the embarkation date or who will enter their 24th week of pregnancy during the cruise will be refused passage due to safety concerns. Neither a physician's medical statement nor a waiver of liability will be able to override the policy. Disney Cruise Line and Disney Vacation Club cannot be held responsible or liable for any complications relating to pregnancy at any stage.
• Disney Cruise Line policy prohibits infants less than 6 months of age on the date of embarkation to travel.
• Effective March 21, 2011, Members who do not purchase their Ownership Interests directly from Disney will not be able to use those Vacation Points to make reservations for the Member-Exclusive Voyage.  Effective June 3, 2021, to obtain a Disney Vacation Club Digital Membership Card, Members must accumulate a total of at least 150 Vacation Points purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc.
• Members may book a maximum of 4 staterooms per Membership.

Important Information About Membership Extras:

Membership Extras—such as exchange options in the Disney Collection and options offered through hotel exchange, certain discounts, offers and special events—are incidental benefits. These incidental benefits are subject to change or termination without notice, may require the payment of a fee and cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Membership Extras are also subject to availability and blockout dates may apply, including high periods of demand such as Christmas and New Year's Day. To receive any Membership Extras, purchasers must present a valid digital Disney Vacation Club Membership Card along with a corresponding valid photo ID.  Effective June 3, 2021, to obtain a Disney Vacation Club Membership Card, Members must accumulate a total of at least 150 Vacation Points purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc.  Exchange options in the Disney Collection and options offered through hotel exchange are not available for ownership interests not purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc. after March 21, 2011 and, effective April 4, 2016, Members who have not purchased an ownership interest directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc. will not have access to Membership Extras.

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