Disney Cruises are awesome. The Disney Cruise Line experience is definitely a top notch vacation that gives you a lot in return for the money you spend; but what is NOT included on a Disney cruise? Some Disney Cruise line added costs apply to certain goods or services.
There is a lot of great stuff about a Disney Cruise Line vacation. Much of what you experience, the food and the entertainment, is included in the cost. You can eat as much as you want of virtually anything and even have free 24 hour room service.
What is not included in disney cruise fares
You will find below what costs extra on a Disney cruise.
Alcohol
Although Disney does allow you to bring a limited quantity of alcohol on board, cocktails and other alcoholic beverages you purchase on the ship are provided at an additional cost. That goes for the alcohol purchased on shore as well.
Canned Sodas/Bottled Water
While tap water is clean and drinkable (probably more drinkable than your tap water at home) bottled water costs extra. The same goes for fountain beverages. You can drink as much soda as you like without paying a penny more, but canned beverages cost a premium. Consider this especially when you are ordering room service.
Snacks
Some locations like Vanellope Sweets and Treats Shop, or Eye Scream charge for the snacks and sweets they sell there. other snacks such as Dole Whips are included in the price of the cruise. Those famous Mickey ice cream bars are free, too.
BINGO
Disney Cruises offer Bingo sessions and they do cost extra money to play; however they are fun for kids of all ages and worth the cost for a fun family activity.
Disney Cruise Line Souvenirs
Just to be clear about this. I don’t want to leave it off and have any confusion. No, the things you buy at the gift shops are not included in the cost of the cruise. However, you will find things on the Disney Cruise Line that are exclusive and you are not likely to find elsewhere.
Fine Dining on the Disney Cruise Ship
Although most of the dining on your Disney cruise is included in the price, there are some Disney Cruise Line added costs where it comes to the fine dining restaurants Palo and Remy. Rather than avoid this or try to work around the price, this is one instance where it is worth the extra money to have an exceptional meal.
Spa Services
Disney Cruise Lines have spas on board if you are in need of extra pampering or relaxation. The spas are not in any way included in the price of the cruise and you will be charged separately for all services.
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and Pirates League Packages
Witness a fairytale transformation at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique! Packages cost extra for your child and offer themed costumes, plus styling and accessories. On the day of the Pirate Party Nights, kids and adults can transform themselves into a pirate or a swashbuckle. Fees also apply to this package.
Shore Excursions
Port adventures have varying fees that are separate from the total price of the cruise.
NURSERY SERVICES
The kids clubs are included in the price of your cruise, but the “it’s a small world” nursery services will cost you an hourly rate to babysit your child. The nursery services are intended for children under 3 years old or who are not potty trained.
Arcade and Simulators
The arcade and golf simulator or sport simulators costs are not included in a Disney Cruise fare, so you must pay for these ship activities. You can book the simulators online before you sail.
Wireless Internet Access
The wireless internet access is an added cost on a Disney Cruise and can get pretty expensive, therefore spend quality time with the family and unplug instead. After all you are on a vacation! Keep in mind that you can sometimes get wifi while in port. The Disney Cruise ship does have its own DCL navigator app that will allow you to see the restaurant menus, the daily fun activities and you can even text each other on the cruise ship or on the Castaway Cay.
Are gratuities included on a Disney cruise?
Tips are not included, but you will be automatically charged a percentage for the dedicated crew that served you during the trip. You are not required to settle on the amount you have been charged for gratuities and can take your bill to Guest Services on the final night of your voyage. You can also pay more if you like and envelopes are left for cash deposits at your discretion.
As you can see, there are many things that are NOT included on a Disney cruise. Disney Cruises are at a higher premium, but you immediately see that the money is being put to good use. The Disney Difference doesn’t come cheap, but well worth every penny!
