Benefits of member cruise? More expensive?

[robndani]

We are thinking of trying to book the 2018 member cruise. Looking at the points charts it's more expensive to do member cruise than the same cruise a week before.

First time cruising, so maybe I'm missing something huge here.

Thanks for any info!

 

[cmwade77]

Next year's member cruise is massively overpriced for a four night cruise. I haven't ever been on a member cruise, but apparently in the past they have done gifts in the cabin every night, but still I can't imagine that adds up to almost double the cost of a 7 night cruise.

Also you can book it with cash or points, you can also do points for one person and cash for the other. But even the cash price is about double a 7 night Disney cruise

 

[mcgluvint]

We are thinking of trying to book the 2018 member cruise. Looking at the points charts it's more expensive to do member cruise than the same cruise a week before.

First time cruising, so maybe I'm missing something huge here.

Thanks for any info!

IMO, it's rediculus. I get it being priced higher than others but at some point enough is enough. It's not worth it. Of course you get extra stuff but it wouldn't even make sense to do.

 

[robndani]

IMO, it's rediculus. I get it being priced higher than others but at some point enough is enough. It's not worth it. Of course you get extra stuff but it wouldn't even make sense to do.

I guess that's my question... what's the other stuff?

 

[_auroraborealis_]

They give you tote bags and trinkets and coffee cups and the like while you discuss why resale buyers are scum!

I jest, I jest. Things to know:

1. Gratuities are included. So calculate that in your price difference.

2. The gifts are actually okay. They tend to be things like bags, hats, travel coffee mugs, lip balm, souvenir glasses for drinks, art, pins. They've given DVC board games. It's mostly stuff that does not need to be sized, so no actual garments. Now, are they worth the differential? Not a chance.

3. They do more events with free drinks.

4. There is often upgraded/special entertainment and lectures.

5. The CC double-dip may be something people value more.

 

[mcgluvint]

I guess that's my question... what's the other stuff?

Like you get more gifts every night. You will often revive free drinks. I believe you get OBC. Gratuities are also payed for.

 

[bobbiwoz]

I am sure some find experiences like Party for the Senses overpriced, but people do one year after year. I personally like Member Cruises for the experience. I give away most of the gift we get. Last year, I especially enjoyed the events about Moana, and the Broadway singers show the last night is as good, for me, as being at a Broadway show, and we all know how much they cost!

Bobbi

 

[Capang]

Am I missing something? I thought with cash the prices started just above $2000 per person. The same cruise a week before starts at $3297 per person.

Next year's member cruise is massively overpriced for a four night cruise. I haven't ever been on a member cruise, but apparently in the past they have done gifts in the cabin every night, but still I can't imagine that adds up to almost double the cost of a 7 night cruise.

Also you can book it with cash or points, you can also do points for one person and cash for the other. But even the cash price is about double a 7 night Disney cruise

I get with points it's not that great of a deal, but with cash it seems to be a decent deal? I'm new at this so if I'm wrong please tell me what I have overlooked.

ETA link to standard cost of cruise https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/cruises-destinations/list/#july-2018

 

[erionm]

The same cruise a week before starts at $3297 per person

That $3297 is for 2 passengers. The base fare is $1576 per person.

 

[Capang]

That $3297 is for 2 passengers. The base fare is $1576 per person.

Ahhhhhhh thank you. I should take my own advice and read the fine print. Or even the medium print...thank you.

 

[robndani]

$6125 vs $7168 for member one. The first one is July 4th.

I called DVC today to ask what the difference is and why it's better to book the member cruise. They told me it's because it's available to members only. That doesn't mean anything especially due to the fact that it sells out every year so it's a guaranteed full ship. They said the entertainment was a little different and you don't have to pay the $48 per person that would cover the gratuity.

She said because it makes two trips to Castaway Cay although the cruise I just compared it to does the same thing.

You also have to pay the full amount when you book, rather then a deposit now and the balance next March.

Now I'm not saying we're not doing it. Just trying to understand it all! LOL