FL residents /Military rates

[SteffyLou]

Hi Everyone!

Next year is my MIL’s 70th birthday and she was hoping the family could take a 7 day Caribbean cruise in the summer (beginning of June to first week of August). Both she and my FIL are retired military and my BIL is currently serving. My in-laws are also FL residents.

Few questions-
Typically how far in advance do the military/FL resident rates come out?

How many cabins can you get with these rates?

Any hints or helpful advice on booking these? My DH and I are teachers and usually just wait for last minute specials so this would be a new experience booking in advance for us.

 

[Trera]

Not sure about military rates but Florida resident rates require one Florida resident in the room and proof of residency within a day or two of booking the cruise. I always email them my drivers license as soon as I book.

 

[DLgal]

Military rates and FL resident rates typically (but not always) are released after the Pay in Full date for the sailing. So, usually around 2-3 months out. They are last minute fares.

In order to book these special rates, the eligible person has to be booked into the room. In your situation, a maximum of three cabins can be booked with a special rate. Your FIL can put one in his name and put either you or your husband in the same room, your MIL can book the other room with the other adult and any kids, and your BIL can book his own cabin for his family. You do get to choose your cabin, these are not GTY rates. It helps to book cabins near each other. The people booked into a cabin don't have to actually stay in it (DCL doesn't care where people sleep once you get onboard) but you will have to have extra room keys made for the room you actually end up in.

Just a note, these rates require payment in full at booking and no cancellations or changes are allowed, so make sure you buy trip insurance!

For example:
Last cruise we used military rate. Booked one room in DHs name. Put the kids in his room. I booked the other in my name (military spouses can also book military rates) and put MIL in "my room" even though she ended up alone in that room. I stayed with my husband and kids. The only caveat was that I had to pay for the room and MIL had to write me a check. And I had to go to guest services when we boarded to ask for a key card for the room Is stayed in with my husband and kids. Our rooms were adjoining.