They know you are members whether you sail on points or cash. We sailed the Magic in June on cash and received the door magnets on both our staterooms and the in room gift from DVC. We also received an invitation to the member gathering. It was nice. Refreshments were served and they gave out prizes and everyone got hats.
I tried to tell Disney we were DVC members but no luck. They said unless I book with points or cash through MS it will be noted but by booking with AAA they can't and to just ask once on the ship.
Lexi
We cruised on the Wonder last month, paid cash. We ran into the DVC Guide at a kiosk in the registration area of the terminal, he filled us in on all the details of the DVC member get together, gave us invitations, and later dropped by our cabin (we gave him the number) and placed the magnet on our door.
We attended the get together...lots of fun and lots of other Disney Dorks like us...we came back the next day for the prospect gathering (we were invited) and won the $300 onboard credit...wow...highly worthwhile visit.