The Easiest Way to Save Money on a Disney Cruise – That Even Experienced Cruisers Miss

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Imagine sailing the seas with Mickey Mouse, enjoying great shows, and making unforgettable family memories—all while saving money.

Sounds too good to be true?

Not with a Disney Cruise Placeholder.

This special booking option lets you save money on future Disney cruises and gives you the flexibility to plan your dream vacation later.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about Disney Cruise Placeholders, from how they work to the benefits they offer.

What is a Disney Cruise Placeholder?

A Disney Cruise Placeholder, also called a “dummy booking,” is a reservation you make while you’re on a Disney cruise.

This placeholder lets you book a future Disney cruise within 24 months, often at a lower price and with extra onboard credits.

The best part?

You don’t have to pick the exact cruise dates or itinerary right away.

You are probably thinking there is a catch?

Not really, but the only thing is that you do have to be sailing on a Disney Cruise to book a placeholder.

But you would be suprised by how many people sail on a Disney cruise and completely miss out on this benefit because they do not realize it is available.

Do not be one of those people!

How to Book a Disney Cruise Placeholder

1. Be Onboard a Disney Cruise: You must be on a Disney cruise to book a placeholder. You can’t do this after you leave the ship.
2. Visit the Navigator App Remember once again this has to be during your cruise. If you have any difficulty finding this on the App then just go to Guest Services and they will help you.
3. Pay the Deposit: You need to pay a $250 deposit to secure your placeholder. This deposit is fully refundable if you decide not to book a future cruise within 24 months of the date that it is paid. This can be paid with the credit card that is linked to your onboard account.
4. Receive Confirmation: After paying the deposit, you’ll get a confirmation of your placeholder booking sent to your email. This will have a booking number, which you will need to know when you book your placeholder cruise.
5. When You are Ready to Book you need to call the Disney Cruise Line Call Center at (800) 951-3532 to convert your placeholder to a booked reservation.

Important Considerations

• Eligibility: Only guests currently on a Disney cruise can book a placeholder.
• Time Frame: You have 24 months from the booking date to use your placeholder.
• How Many: You can only book up to 2 staterooms on one sail date per household on board regardless of the number of adults in the household. 
• Not for Concierge: you can use your placeholder for any stateroom in catogories 4 to 11. This means that you can’t use a placeholder for a booking of a Concierge stateroom.

Related: Experiences that are Worth the Cost on Your Disney Cruise

Benefits of Booking a Disney Cruise Placeholder

Financial Savings

One of the biggest benefits of booking a Disney Cruise Placeholder is saving money as you will get a 10% discount on your next cruise.

Reduced Deposit

If you book a cruise that is 7 nights or longer with your placeholder you will pay a reduced deposit.

Flexibility and Peace of Mind

A Disney Cruise Placeholder offers great flexibility.

You don’t have to decide on the specific cruise dates or itinerary right away, giving you plenty of time to plan with family and friends. Plus, knowing you have a future Disney cruise secured can give you peace of mind and something exciting to look forward to.

Is there an Onboard Credit With a Placeholder?

It used to be that you did get an onboard credit if you booked a placeholder with Disney, but that benefit is not available anymore.

If you are interested in getting an onboard credit for your Disney Cruise then contact our recommended Disney Authorized Diamond Cruise Planners at The Vacationeer.

Their travel agents are there to help you in any way they can, and have experienced sailing on Disney ships, so they know all the inside tips and will help you get the best rates and staterooms.

Maximizing Your Disney Cruise Placeholder

Plan Ahead

While the placeholder gives you flexibility, it’s still a good idea to start planning your future cruise early. Popular itineraries and sail dates can fill up quickly, so having a general idea of when and where you want to sail can help you get your preferred options.

Combine with Other Discounts

Disney Cruise Line sometimes offers extra promotions and discounts. Keep an eye out for these deals, as you can sometimes combine them with your placeholder booking for even more savings.

Related: Disney Cruise Special Offers

Common Questions About Disney Cruise Placeholders

Can I book multiple placeholders?

Yes, you can book multiple placeholders, but each requires a separate $250 deposit. This can be useful for families or groups planning to book multiple staterooms.

What happens if I don’t use my placeholder within 24 months?

If you don’t use your placeholder within the 24-month window, your deposit will be refunded, and the placeholder will be canceled.

Can I transfer my placeholder to someone else?

No, placeholders are non-transferable and must be used by the person who booked them.

Are there any restrictions on which cruises I can book with a placeholder?

Yes, you can often combine your placeholder with other discounts or promotions, but it’s always a good idea to confirm with Disney Cruise Line or your travel agent.

Here are the block out dates for 2024/2025 at the time this article was written.

Disney Dream

03/31/2024
11/23/2024
11/27/2024
12/21/2024
12/26/2024
12/30/2024

Disney Fantasy

03/23/2024
03/30/2024
06/08/2024
11/23/2024
12/22/2024
12/26/2024
12/29/2024

Disney Magic

06/06/2024
11/25/2024
12/29/2024

Disney Wish

03/25/2024
03/29/2024
04/01/2024
11/25/2024
12/23/2024
12/27/2024
12/30/2024
04/14/2025
04/18/2025
04/21/2025

Disney Treasure

12/21/2024
12/28/2024

How do I apply my placeholder when booking a future cruise?

When you’re ready to book your future cruise, simply contact Disney Cruise Line or your travel agent and provide your placeholder confirmation number. They will apply the placeholder to your new booking and any applicable discounts or onboard credits.

Final Thoughts

A Disney Cruise Placeholder is a great way to save money and enjoy the flexibility of planning your dream Disney cruise.

By booking a placeholder while onboard you will get a 10% discount for most cruises. Whether you’re a seasoned Disney cruiser or planning your first voyage, a placeholder can make your next Disney cruise even more magical.

FAQs

How much does a Disney Cruise Placeholder cost?

A Disney Cruise Placeholder requires a $250 deposit, which is fully refundable if you decide not to book a future cruise.

Can I book a placeholder for someone else?

No, placeholders are non-transferable and must be used by the person who booked them.

What is the time frame for using a Disney Cruise Placeholder?

You have 24 months from the date of booking to use your placeholder for a future Disney cruise.

Can I use a placeholder for any Disney cruise?

Placeholders can be used for most Disney cruises, but there may be some restrictions on certain sailings. Check with Disney Cruise Line for specific details.

What happens if I don’t use my placeholder within 24 months?

If you don’t use your placeholder within the 24-month window, your deposit will be refunded, and the placeholder will be canceled.

Can I combine a placeholder with other discounts or promotions?

Yes, you can often combine your placeholder with other discounts or promotions, but it’s best to confirm with Disney Cruise Line or your Travel Agent to ensure compatibility.

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