Some of the most exciting news of the week has undoubtedly been the announcement of Disney Cruise Line’s return to sailing this August with several itineraries on the Disney Dream! Additional sailing information about the rest of Disney’s fleet returning will no doubt be soon coming! With this excitement, comes lots of questions in my mind, as an agent, on the behalf of my guests as I’m sure that you all have them as well. I wanted to take the opportunity to let you know what details we know now, what health and safety measures are in place, what requirements are in place for sailing, and what magic is awaiting us on board!
Did you know that the earlier you book a Disney Cruise, the better the pricing? Fun fact, right! But you may be thinking you aren’t sure if you should commit to sailing with new health and safety measures in place or if something should change. Well, because Disney Cruise Line wants to ensure that you have peace of mind when you book, they have instituted new flexible booking policies that allow you to book your sailing with confidence! First, a relaxed cancellation fee schedule has been set up that allows cancellation up to the date of final payment for a full refund. In addition, that final payment date has been changed from 120 days prior to sailing to 60 days! This is a game-changer for all guests! Allowing you this flexibility, allows you to book your sailing with no worries!
And we are all wondering, what magic awaits us upon this return to the ocean? While some experience may be modified for safety, we can still look forward to live Broadway-style shows, character experiences, deck parties…..and yes fireworks! Main rotational dining, Adult exclusive restaurants, casual dining, and 24-hour room service are also back so make sure you are super hungry! We can also expect the return of kids clubs and activities, spa experiences, nightlife, and Disney-themed entertainment to be offered while onboard. All these elements combined equal the ultimate combination of fun and relaxation!
Let’s also not forget…….Castaway Cay! The Disney Dream will be returning to the cruise line’s one and only private island destination for the ultimate fun, food, and relaxation! If you haven’t experienced Disney’s private island, you must add it to your bucket list! There is literally something for everyone! Snorkeling, separate family adult and teen beach areas, water slides, game pavilions, character appearances, and dance parties, boat rentals, excursions and so much more! There will be no shortage of choices, even upon this reopening!
So many of you have asked, will Disney Cruise Line require guests to be vaccinated in order to sail. So, I wanted to include the current Covid requirements regarding embarking on Disney Cruise Line.
COVID-19 Vaccination:
Disney Cruise Line strongly encourages all eligible Guests to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before sailing. Guests who are fully vaccinated may choose to provide proof of vaccination in order to be exempt from the pre-trip and embarkation COVID-19 testing and travel insurance requirements mentioned below.
Pre-Trip COVID-19 Testing:
Guests must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test (paid for at the Guests’ expense) taken between 5 days and 24 hours prior to the sail date. Guests who are fully vaccinated may choose to provide proof of vaccination instead of undergoing COVID19 pre-trip testing.
Embarkation COVID-19 Testing:
Guests are required to undergo a rapid PCR COVID-19 test at the terminal prior to boarding. A $65 test fee will be charged to the folio of all Guests 12 years and older. Guests who are fully vaccinated may choose to provide proof of vaccination instead of undergoing COVID-19 embarkation testing.”
With all the safety measures that Disney has taken, I can’t be anything BUT excited to return to sailing with Mickey and pals! It’s been way too long since I’ve cruised and I don’t know about you guys but I am ready! Food, fun, relaxation, fireworks, tropical islands……Yo Ho! It’s a Pirate’s Life for Me!!