air arrangements

[muntzfab4]

We are going on our first cruise ever on Magic on 7/24 to celebrate our 25th anniversary with our two DD - can't wait!
I did not make air arrangements through DCL and am wondering if I made a mistake. Prices are cheaper making arrangements on my own, but I am concerned if there is a problem with the flight we could "miss the boat". Any feedback or suggestions?

 

[Billinaz]

Sure.

Get in the night before.

Problem solved.

 

[Nick@ VB+OKW]

I also second that...........get a flight the day before your cruise.

 

[tpseller]

Coming from the West Coast DCL price for air was about $550-$575 rt. I knew I could do better and decided to not add the air portion to our trip.

We ended up finding a deal for $130 rt on American. Saving us approximately $1300!!! (there are three of us)

As stated above, I would also urge you getting in the night before, just to make sure you get their in time and don't have the mad rush. I have actually read on these boards about people getting their air through DCL and they land in Orlando at 1:00 pm! Then they have to rush to the boat.

I would either call DCL or your travel agent and see if you can deduct the air and get your own. I am sure they have not booked your flights yet!

 

[HappyLawyer]

Well try ata or spirit air for good rates
but i do agree if you are going right to the cruise, take a flight the night before

 

[glindamood]

Welcome to the DIS muntzfab4! You will find a wealth of information here - ask away and there are plenty of experienced cruises ready and willing to answer your question.

I would suggest doing your own airfare and going the day before - we are heading out for cruise #4 in September and have always done our own). While no one (heaven help them if they do) has to worry about snow and ice in July there can still be weather issues with thunderstorms or mechanical and crew problems that could cause you to be late - or miss the boat. With a little shopping and watching, you should be able to go on Friday, spend the night with food for what DCL would charge you to arrange your flights, plus you have control over when, what airline etc.

You may also find some useful information on the Transportation Board here on the DIS. Just click on 'The DIS Discussion Forums' link at the top of the page and you will find it.

Happy planning!

 

[DoomBuggieDriver]

I agree with everyone to do your own airfare. The only time I did better with the package was during a school vacation week trip to WDW that was planned late, and the airfares were out of control. I notice you are from NY, and you may be able to check JetBlue. They have had some great rates, but I'm not sure if they apply just to the new service out of Boston or throughout their system. I found their web site very easy to use, and the best part was I was able to reserve the actual seats, which is important to me as I am traveling with kids.
Good luck!

 

[muntzfab4]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I agree - these boards have provided a wealth of information for us as first time cruisers!

 

[GoofyFD]

I also 2nd that... fly in the night befor stay at the airport, it's a nice hotel. Swim walk around and see all the shops, get a good night's rest then in the morning take the bus over. I reserved one night at $160.00 with my AAA card. I saved $1,700 off air booking on my own from the west coast Disneys air was alot. I hope this helps.