Disney cruises are truly something special from being immersed in Disney entertainment 24/7 to the outstanding service and crew. But there’s a lot more to it than just booking a stateroom and showing up.

As a travel advisor who works with Disney Cruise Line every day, I have made a list of the most helpful tips that will help you get even more out of your cruise. And if you would like me to plan it with you, contact me here to get started.

#6 Ask for free/discounted upgrades

Here’s a secret! A limited number of upgraded rooms may be available on embarkation day. People cancel at the last minute or have trouble with their flight (see tip #2).

Before boarding the ship, stop at Guest Services to see if there are any discounted upgrades available. I was recently offered Concierge Stateroom for $6,400. Before embarkation day, this category was $9,800, so that was a savings of $3,400!

Expert Tip: Schedule your port arrival time as early as you can on embarkation day. This gives you the best chance for snagging an upgrade plus you’ll enjoy even more time onboard the ship.

#5 Use a Disney travel agent

I’m a travel advisor who specializes in Disney vacations with a lot of experience in booking Disney cruises. But did you know this is how I got started in this work? I booked my first cruise through Magical Vacations Travel because I was overwhelmed when I planning my first cruise.

Using a Disney travel agent is FREE! There are no built-in costs or hidden fees passed on to you.

Onboard Disney Cruise Credit! My clients enjoy a generous onboard credit that can be used towards upgrades like spa services, port adventures, specialty beverages, and more.

Most importantly, I provide expert answers to all your questions about Disney Cruise Line.

Overwhelmed with planning your Disney Cruise? Start here ▸

#4 Save money on a future cruise

While onboard you’ll have an opportunity to book your next cruise at a substantial discount. Don’t miss this opportunity! This is the best way to save money on your next Disney cruise.

Not sure when to book? No problem! Disney Cruise Line will allow you to book a “placeholder cruise” so you don’t have to commit to an actual sail date or itinerary right away. The placeholder cruise just locks in the discounted price.

#3 Use Disney Cruise Line transportation in Orlando

Disney Cruise Line buses operate between Orlando International Airport, Walt Disney World Resort, and Port Canaveral. Disney will even transfer your luggage from the hotel directly to your stateroom onboard the ship.

See my Guide to Port Canaveral ▸

#2 Arrive a day or two before the cruise

If you experience a flight delay or cancellation, the ship will not wait for you! always arrive a day or two ahead of time. If you’re cruising from Orlando (Port Canaveral) there are plenty of things to do in the area: Visit Disney World or Universal Orlando, Gatorland, and more.

Expert Tip: Purchase travel protection from Disney, it’s about 8% of the total cruise fare and can be added on at any time before making the final payment. It’s a terrible investment until something goes wrong. Then, it’s the best investment you ever made!

#1 Schedule a Disney character call

This is so much fun! When it’s time to drop the big news of your Disney cruise, you can get a little help from Mickey Mouse and pals with a recorded phone call (it’s not an actual 1 on 1 call but it’s still very cute).

You’ll find the “schedule a call” feature in Disney Cruise Line mobile app.

Expert Tip: Record your little one answering the phone to capture their reaction. You can share it with my followers on Facebook and Instagram @orlandoparksguy