Annual pass or not?

[ozliz]

Once you decide how much park time you want for the three days post cruise it really comes down to the math. If all you want post cruise is the one trip into Epcot you mentioned then maybe the AP doesn't make sense. Look carefully at the AP benefits and if you aren't planning to spend enough for the discounts to make up the difference in cost then perhaps the 10 day hopper is the way to go.

Normally I would just say get the AP but since you are so far away you won't just "pop back to WDW" to use the AP.

That’s my dilemma. I come out close to even $ whichever way I calculate it and could end up saving a little more through dining discounts but then I could just choose to restrict my spending and save money versus the annual pass. I think I might enjoy he freedom feeling of having an annual pass but I’m not sure it is really worth the extra $ if the extras were a bonus rather than things I would definitely be buying without the pass. I could also get carried away trying to make the most of the discount!

 

[NH-to-FL]

I could also get carried away trying to make the most of the discount!

That's what Disney hopes!

I understand the temptation. We are snowbirds with resident AP's. Thankfully we are pretty good at controlling our extra spending. With the exception of the occasional quick service lunch or a Mickey Bar for me during our 'winter day walk enhanced by Disney'.

It sounds like you have a very good understanding of the math and the plusses and minuses.

Another way to look at it is to consider how much the extra AP cost would be as a percentage of the total trip cost. I understand that saving where possible is important but if this is a once in a lifetime trip than perhaps spending a few extra dollars to get that "freedom feeling of having an annual pass" would be worth it.
Wishing you a visit!