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Disney Cruise Line News
New Disney Cruise Line Cancellation Policy & Changes to Castaway Club Benefits
• Beginning May 15, 2012, the cancellation fee period will change for cruises 10 days or more and cruises less than 10 days where the embark and debark is a non-U.S. port. The 50% cancellation fee period will now be calculated at 55 days prior to vacation commencement versus 44 days. In 2012, this new policy will impact the 14-night Hawaiian cruise and 14-night Panama Canal Repositioning cruise. In 2013, it will impact Mediterranean, Alaskan and Repositioning cruises. For reservations made prior to May 15, 2012, the cancellation fees assessed will be based on the cancellation fees listed on the original confirmation unless the sailing date or vacation package is modified.
• Also effective May 15, 2012, all new onboard bookings by Castaway Club members for cruises of six days or less get a $100 shipboard credit per stateroom. All new onboard bookings for cruises of seven days or more get a $200 shipboard credit per stateroom. In addition to the shipboard credit, Castaway Club members get a 10% discount on their cruise. The amount of the shipboard credit is the same, no matter what your Castaway Club status. Note: Changing the date of an existing onboard booking (such as moving a "placeholder" for a future cruise that is not yet available to book), makes the booking subject to the limits above, rather than the credit in effect prior to the date change being processed.
Help DCL Welcome the Disney Magic to New York
This summer the Disney Magic is sailing from New York City. When the ship arrives in the Big Apple later this month, Disney wants to greet her in a big way. So it's putting together a video with fun welcome messages for the ship and crew and wants you to send your best video shout out. If your creative greeting stands out, there’s a chance it will be included it in Disney's official video. Video submissions must be entered by May 15, 2012. Keep it short - videos should be 30 seconds or less. You can upload your video to Disney Cruise Line's Facebook page.
Special Rates for DVC Members on June Disney Fantasy Sailings
Disney Vacation Club Members can get a special discount rate on select Disney Fantasy sailings in June when they book a verandah stateroom (categories 04A-07A). Offer not available on a vacation points basis. This offer can be combined with the Magic For Less Travel’s exclusive Shipboard Credit Offer. Visit our Disney Cruise Line Discount Page for more details.
Advance Reservations for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique & The Pirates League on the Fantasy
Guests sailing on the Disney Fantasy who have paid in full are now able to make reservations for the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and The Pirates League online up to 120 days in advance.
Adventures By Disney Tests Discount for Guests Booking on the Disney Fantasy
Beginning April 28, 2012, Adventures by Disney will begin testing an onboard sales opportunity on select Disney Fantasy sailings. Guests who book an Adventures by Disney vacation while onboard will receive a 10% discount. Similar to the Disney Cruise Line onboard booking policy, Guests will be asked if they booked their cruise through a Travel Agent, and if they would like to do so for their Adventures by Disney vacation. If the answer is yes, your favorite travel agent will receive the booking credit and will be notified. This test offer is available for booking on Disney Fantasy sailings departing April 28, May 5 and May 12, 2012 and for any available departure of any Adventures by Disney itinerary at a non-discounted rate for travel before 3/31/13. For more info, visit our Adventures By Disney discount page.
DCL Guests Can Discover the Beauty of San Diego This Fall
The Disney Wonder will make its inaugural visit to San Diego this September as part of Disney Cruise Line’s new 7-night Best of California cruises and offer some great port experiences for both families and adults! Guests wanting to explore the city at a leisurely pace should choose the San Diego Trolley Car, which allows them to “hop on and off” at various attractions. Of course, many guests will love is a trip to the San Diego Zoo, one of the most famous zoos in the United States. On the Toasting Temecula wine adventure, adult guests have an opportunity to explore Southern California’s only developed wine region with tastings at three different wineries. Visit The Magic For Less Travel to see itineraries and dates.
Limited Time Cruise Offer from The Magic For Less Travel
For a limited time, guests booking a Disney cruise with The Magic For Less Travel can combine TWO great savings offers! Receive an extra shipboard credit of up to $100 on most sailings when you book a stateroom with a verandah AND make your Disney Cruise Line reservation with The Magic For Less Travel between April 23, 2012 and May 6, 2012. This discount can be combined with The Magic For Less Travel's Onboard Credit Offer of up to 5% off your Disney cruise price. Visit our Disney Cruise Line Discount Page for more details. Must Book by May 6, 2012.
Canadian Residents Save on California Coast Cruises
Canadian residents can receive a 15% discount off prevailing rates on most California Coastal sailings commencing Sept. 16 – Oct. 7, 2012. Offer applies to Categories 4A – 11A. This offer CAN be combined with the Magic For Less Travel’s Exclusive 2012/2013 Shipboard Credit Offer for an additional savings of up to $1000, dependent upon cruise price. Visit our Disney Cruise Line Discount Page for more details.
DCL Introduces Auto-Apply Gratuities on All Ships
After a pilot program on the Disney Magic, Disney is offically introducing auto-application of gratuities on all Disney ships. The process will automatically charge folios on embarkation day with the suggested gratuity amounts for the Server, Assistant Server, Head Server and Stateroom Host/Hostess (about $12 per passenger per day). Guests can still add pre-paid gratuities at the time of booking or when processing final payment. If the pre-paid gratuities have not been added prior to boarding, guests will receive a letter upon check-in explaining the automatic charge to their onboard account. Guest will still have the option to modify or add additional gratuity amounts, or pay in cash, by stopping by the Guest Services Desk onboard. 15% gratuity is automatically added to any bar, beverage, wine and deck-service receipt. Below are the effective dates the new auto-apply gratuities will begin on each ship:
• Disney Dream - Date to be announced
• Disney Fantasy - April 21, 2012
• Disney Magic - Already in place
• Disney Wonder - April 22, 2012
Updated: New Walt Disney World VIP Tours and More for DCL Guests
This summer the Disney Magic will set sail on 8-night voyages from New York to the Bahamas. The cruise includes a full day stop in Port Canaveral, Florida, with roundtrip transportation and a ticket to nearby Walt Disney World Resort, giving guests a chance to visit all four theme parks! To celebrate these exciting voyages, Disney has added exclusive experiences throughout Walt Disney World Resort for Disney Cruise Line guests, including the Illuminations Fireworks Dessert Party at Epcot, a private viewing for Disney Cruise Line guests for $49 per person. And, because it is impossible to experience all that the resort has to offer in one day, DCL is offering VIP Tours so that guests can see some of the major attractions across all theme parks. The Best of Walt Disney World Resort for Young Families is a VIP Tour created with the young members of the family in mind; this VIP tour will take guests to favorite attractions like Peter Pan's Flight at Magic Kingdom Park and Toy Story Mania! at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Cost is $295 per person. The Thrills of Walt Disney World Resort VIP Tour allows guests to experience the most thrilling attractions, like Expedition Everest at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster at Disney's Hollywood Studios and Splash Mountain at Magic Kingdom Park! Cost is $315 per person. During both VIP tours, guests will have access to Disney's FASTPASS lines, always accompanied by a VIP Tour Guide. For a free, no-obligation quote on any of Disney Cruise Line sailings, contact The Magic For Less Travel and learn about an exclusive Shipboard Credit Offer you won't get booking directly through Disney.
DCL Phases Out Palo High Tea on All 4 Ships
The Palo High Tea option, offered on cruises of 7 nights or longer, will be phase out over the next few months on all four of Disney's cruise ships. The dining option will be eliminated on the Disney Dream beginning with the July 22, 2012 sailing. The Palo High Tea will be eliminated on Disney Magic starting with the August 10 sailing, and on the Disney Wonder and Fantasy starting with the August 13 sailings. The Palo restaurants will still offer dinner and the Champagne Brunch option (4-night or longer cruises). Palo offers adult fine dining for an additional fee. Reservations are required.
The Roaming Gnome Visits the Disney Fantasy
View some fun photos of the Roaming Gnome as he joins the inaugural sailing of the Disney Fantasy on March 31, 2012.
DCL Voyages from NYC Offer New Broadway Experience
For guests sailing on Disney Magic voyages from New York City this summer, Disney Cruise Line has put together an amazing new experience. Before or after their cruise, guests can book a Disney-exclusive tour of the historical New Amsterdam Theatre. Disney tour guides will share information on future productions and guests will visit areas not open to the general public. After the tour, guests will enjoy a performance of either The Lion King or Mary Poppins on Broadway! For more information on Disney Cruises departing the Big Apple or a free obligation quote, visit The Magic For Less Travel and learn about an additional bonus you won't get from Disney.
Disney Fantasy Launches with Entertainment & Activities Created for Longer Itineraries
The Disney Fantasy is now a cruise vacation reality. As the fourth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet launches into service, it brings Disney fantasies to life with entertainment, activities and dining experiences specifically designed with seven-night cruises in mind. Given the longer itineraries planned for this ship, the creative team had an opportunity to produce an extended portfolio of Disney offerings. Read all the details on our MFL News Blog.
DCL Makes Changes to Option Payment Period
Effective April 2, 2012, Disney Cruise Line has changed the period of time that a reservation can be held without funds. In an effort to maximize the availability of stateroom inventory onboard the ships, the option period that a reservation can be held without funds being applied has been shortened from 3 days to 1 day for Suites/Concierge categories and from 5 days to 3 day for Non-Suites/Non-Concierge categories. In addition, payment extensions are no longer permitted for Suites/Concierge categories. A one-time payment extension of 3 days is permitted for Non-Suites/Non-Concierge categories. Exceptions may apply.
DCL Considers Champagne Lunch Option on Disney Fantasy
According to an article published on seatrade-insider.com, "Disney Cruise Line is considering adding a Champagne lunch option in Remy on board Disney Fantasy." The new option would supplement the brunch option offered at the Fantasy's other adults-only restaurant, Palo. We've also heard rumors that if the the new meal option happens, it will cost approximately $49 per person and may include tasting of 5 champagnes.
Exclusive Dooney & Bourke Collection Debuts for Disney Cruise Line
Fans of Dooney & Bourke handbags will welcome the news that Disney Cruise Line will debut two new exclusive collections aboard its ships. On March 31, the first Dooney & Bourke collection will be released on the maiden voyage of the Disney Fantasy and arrive on the other ships over the summer. Bags will feature the name logos of all four ships of the Disney Cruise Line. The second collection will debut aboard the Hawaiian itineraries later this year, and will also debut on the other ships later this summer. The second collection will feature blue and white nautical stripes and the DCL logo. Photos are available on the Disney Parks Blog.
Disney Fantasy Photo Gallery
View our online Disney Fantasy Photo Gallery
Booking for Magical Makeovers on Disney Fantasy Now Open
Beginning the maiden voyage of the Disney Fantasy, one feature sure to please young cruisers is the new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and The Pirates League where aspiring young princesses and pirates receive the full fairy tale treatment with exclusive costumes and accessories, only available on the Disney ship. On pirate party nights aboard the Disney Fantasy, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique transforms into The Pirate's League, where swashbuckling boys, girls and grownups can get ready for the pirate life with some pirate gear exclusive to Disney Cruise Line. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is available to guests 3-12 years old. There will be a $10 no-show fee and a $10 fee if canceled less than 24 hours in advance. Guests who are paid in full and within their pre-reserve window may reserve appointments for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and The Pirates League through the online Disney Cruise Line Planning Center. The following makeovers will be exclusive to the Disney Fantasy:
- Under the Sea Package (Disney Fantasy only) - $184.95
Little cruisers become little mermaids with a two-piece swimsuit and "mermaid tail" wrap. A floral hair clip, necklace and nail polish that changes color in sunlight - Disney Fantasy Package (Disney Fantasy only) - $184.95
The frilly tutu in this outfit has subtle Disney Fantasy and Disney Cruise Line logos printed into the gold ribbon around the hem. The fitted graphic T-shirt has a stylish jewelry design and the outfit is topped off with a poufy headband. - Royal Sea Package (Disney Fantasy only) - $595
Includes a Castle, Under the Sea and Pirate makeover, exclusive rolling trunk filled with Princess goodies, a very special and personalized invitation, photo, and glass slipper. - Guests may also choose from a variety of costume options that are exclusive to Disney Cruise Line, including Captain Mickey Mouse, Princess Minnie Mouse, First Mate Minnie Mouse
Disney Cruise Line Unveils New 2013 Itineraries & Ports
In 2013, Disney Cruise Line will offer new itineraries, including an expanded portfolio of European cruises with new destinations such as Venice, Italy, and the Greek Isles. In addition, Disney Cruise Line will utilize a second homeport in Florida, with Caribbean sailings departing from the Port of Miami for the first time. As an exclusive benefit to cruisers who are Platinum/Gold Castaway Club Members, bookings on the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder for 2013 will open via phone on Wednesday, January 25, 2012. Bookings for general public on the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder for 2013 begins Thursday, January 26, 2012. For full details and new itineraries, visit our MFL News Blog. The Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream will continue to sail a variety of Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries departing from Port Canaveral in 2013 and both the Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream can be booked now! For more information or a free, no-obligation quote on any of Disney Cruise Line sailings, contact The Magic For Less Travel and learn about an exclusive Shipboard Credit Offer you won't get booking directly through Disney.
New 2012 Holiday Cruises and 14-night Panama Canal Repositioning Cruise
Disney has announced 3 new cruises for the 2012 holiday season on the Disney Wonder, including a Panama Canal cruise. The 14-night Panama Canal repositioning cruise will sail 12/9/12 as the Disney Wonder departs the port of Los Angeles, CA and makes it's way to Miami, FL. The 14-night cruise will also stop at Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; Panama Canal; Grand Cayman Cozumel, Mexico and Costa Maya, Mexico, in addition to 7 days at sea. Other new cruises added for 2012 is a 7-Night Eastern Caribbean holiday cruise, 12/23/12, and a 6-Night Western Caribbean New Year cruise, 12/30/12, both departing from the Wonder's new home port location of Miami.
New Adventures By Disney Experiences Available for 2013 Mediterranean Cruises
Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney will offer families unique land and sea experiences in the Mediterranean in 2013. Available on select departures, guests can maximize the magic with 3-night or 4-night pre-cruise Adventures by Disney vacation itineraries in Barcelona and Madrid. These immersive add-ons allow families to envelop themselves in the culture of the region with VIP access in the most-sought-after tourist destinations - such as the Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona and the El Prado museum in Madrid - as well as hands-on lessons in archeology, flamenco dancing, local cuisine and stained glass crafting. Families can also enhance 7-night and 12-night Mediterranean sailings with Adventures by Disney Onboard Experience packages. Throughout the voyage, guests will have access to exclusive Adventures by Disney activities and concierge service from dedicated Adventure Guides. These guides will also lead travelers at each port, helping them unlock the wonders of each destination through exclusive excursions and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Specific itinerary and pricing information for the 2013 Adventures by Disney experiences will be available in March 2012.
Mazatlan Dropped from Mexican Riviera Cruises Through Fall 2012
Disney Cruise Line has made another change to 7-night Mexican Riviera itineraries on the Disney Wonder. Earlier in the year Disney dropped Mazatlan from Mexican Riviera cruises departing January 8 - April 22, 2012. Disney has now officially dropped Mazatlan from 2012 Mexican Riviera cruises through the fall, replacing it with the additional stop in Cabo San Lucas. Disney has said the decision is based in part on "the changing environment in Mazatlan and the surrounding area."
Info on Port Canaveral Port Adventures Released
This summer, the Disney Magic will sail from New York on 8-night Bahamian cruises. Included in the price of the cruise are a one-day Park Hopper ticket and round-trip transportation to the Walt Disney World parks. Cruisers will be able to select their departure time and the theme park to which they want to be transported. Guests' Key to the World card will function as a park pass only on the day that the Magic is docked in Port Canaveral. Guests may park hop or spend the day at one park before being transported back to the Disney Magic. Transportation begins at at 3:30 p.m. and continues until 8 p.m. from Disney's Animal Kingdom, 10:00 p.m. from Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, and 11:00 p.m. from Magic Kingdom. For an additional charge, guests may also opt for several enhanced park port adventures, including the Wild Africa Trek at Disney's Animal Kingdom, an Illuminations Dessert Party and VIP tours directed at young families and thrill seekers. A customizable option is also available. Port adventures from Port Canaveral are also available to Cocoa Beach, Kennedy Space Center, the Tosohatchee Wildlife Area and an airport excursion on the St. Johns River. The first date to reserve activities for the 8-day Bahamian cruises from New York is January 26. For a free, no-obligation quote, visit The Magic For Less Travel.
DCL Will Enforce Youth Activity Age Restrictions
Info from an internal DCL memo reveals that Disney will begin strictly enforcing age restrictions for youth activities ages 3 to 17 years old on cruises, including disallowing those 18-years-old or older from participating. A series of Open Houses will be offered in the Oceaneer's Club and Oceaneer's Lab that will allow parents to accompany children while they get use to the new environment; other than that, DCL will also not allow parents of children participating in activities to enter secure area for more than to drop off and pick up their children. In addition, parents will be required to wear a lanyard or sticker while in youth designated areas and clubs.
Port Canaveral Parking Rate Increase
Beginning Oct. 1, the Canaveral Port Authority began charging Guests for parking for each day their vehicle is in the lot/garage. This includes the day of arrival and day of departure. The rate remains $15 per day. Below is breakdown per cruise:
• 3-night cruise $60
• 4-night cruise $75
• 5-night cruise $90
• 7-night cruise $120
Disney Cruise Line Adds Second Hawaiian Cruise for 2012
Based on an overwhelming response to its first Hawaiian itinerary, Disney Cruise Line has added a second Hawaiian cruise to its 2012 schedule. The new 14-night itinerary departs October 14, 2012, from Los Angeles. It includes stops at Kahului, Maui; Nawiliwili, Kauai; Honolulu, O'ahu; and Hilo, Hawai'i; plus Ensenada, Mexico. In addition, there are eight relaxing days at sea. Bookings open Monday, September 26. Space is expected to fill up quickly! For more info or to request a free, no-obligation quote from The Magic For Less Travel, visit our Disney Cruise Line discount page. This offer CAN be combined with the Magic For Less Travel's Exclusive Shipboard Credit Offer for an additional savings of up to $1000, dependent upon cruise price.
Real History Behind Disney's Castaway Cay Revealed
It seems that Disney Cruise Line's private island, Castaway Cay, has a bit of a shady past. You can read Jeff Heimbuch's amazing article of pirates, smuggling, and adventure on the high seas on the MiceChat Blog.
Disney Unveils Disney Cruise Line Merchandise Online
The magic of Disney Cruise Line is now sailing online! For the first time ever, you can now shop for Disney Cruise Line Merchandise online at DisneyCruise.com/Store! Shop for pre-arrival favorites to make packing a breeze. The new online assortment is also a great way to surprise your family with the announcement that they’re going on a Disney Cruise Line vacation! While the new Disney Cruise Line Online Store offers a great way to plan for an upcoming vacation, it also serves as a great way to pick up extra souvenirs that you may have left behind from a previous Disney Cruise Line vacation.
Disney Dream Horn Concert
If you haven't heard all six tunes that the horn on the Disney Dream can play, go to the Disney Parks Blog and have a listen. If only we could decide which one we like the best!