Group Rates? How many rooms?

[westjones]

In 2009 we have about 4 families (so far) that want to go on the 4 night Disney Cruise over our school's spring break. So we are starting to wonder:

--How many rooms do you need to book to get a group rate?
--Two of us have the onboard discount from last year's cruise, is that better than a group rate, or can you get both?
--How do you set up a grouping? I mean, if we want to invite other families, how do they add to our group?

I have never been part of a group, so I don't know how this works. Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks!
DJ

 

[Ilovestitch]

I think for most cruise lines groups usually start at 7 or 8 cabins with double occupancy. Just call DCL and they give you the details, though. I think groups can be sorta hard to come by with DCL because if they can sell cabins full price then there's really no reason to discount them.

The easiest thing is to find a TA who already has group space set up. You should be able to combine an OBC and group discount. My DCL reservation has the AAA obc and group discount. But I know you can't combine the $50 Disney Visa obc and group discount.

 

[westjones]

Thanks!
Sounds like it might be easier to just let everyone book for themselves. Doubt if we would have 7or 8 rooms, so a group rate wouldn't work out (then you never know who will back out and things like that). It would just be fun to have familar faces joining us.
DJ

 

[kcashner]

It was 8 cabins (rules do change). You can't "double dip" on discounts. Either you have the rebooking on board discount (which is usually the best), or the group rate...not both.

By having everyone book separately you will keep your onboard rebooking discount and avoid the hassle of getting everyone on the same page, dealing with payments, etc. A local TA will love to handle all this for you. The key is to "link" your reservations. That's DCL code for the fact that you are a group that wished to be seated together at meals even though you are on separate ressies.

DCL does have a separate coordinator that deals with groups, so if you get 8 cabins she will be happy to help you.