While you are waiting for your
travel agent visit, I’ll throw in some info. Sort of the point of forums.
Washington state or DC?
DCL or Aulani are both expensive. I’ve sailed lots, been to Hawaii numerous times, including very short stays at Aulani. And airfare has jumped considerably this year.
Sailings on the Wish have a price drop mid-late April 2023. Probably after most Spring Breaks and Easter. They are sailing from Port Canaveral and are doing 3- or 4-night cruises. The destination is Nassau and
Castaway Cay, Disney’s private Bahamian island (4-night adds a day at Sea).
Starting prices for interior cabins are around $2500. Balconies $3000+ Oceanview (window, no balcony) are in between those prices. That is total fare for two people, including port taxes.
That uses up most of your budget. Add gratuities of about $13.50 pp/day ($108; think of it as a service charge you would see on a restaurant bill in Europe. It is the real income of the various wait staff, room stewards.)
Summer prices are closer to $4000/$5000 for the same rooms and itinerary. Rates drop again as Hurricane season builds and kids go back to school. September travel can bring lower prices while still offering warmer ocean temps, but can have ruined travel plans if a storm rolls in.
All meals and soda are included. Alcohol is basically a pay-as-you-go situation. DCL does not offer an unlimited drinks package as other cruise lines do.
(Option) As a first time cruiser, on a new ship, you may not be able to get into one of the speciality (extra $) restaurants, as passengers with cruising loyalty to DCL get Priority in booking. Those can be $45-125 pp for brunch or dinner.
Castaway Cay is basically two private beaches on one island which can be done for no out of pocket costs. Loungers and umbrellas are free and plentiful. Lunch is served on the island.
Internet is expensive inboard. Perhaps not so great, either. (I just use the tiny free amount you can sign up for on boarding day).
When Covid passes and things return to normal, there should be several excellent Broadway-quality Disney shows during your cruise. This is where DCL shines (My, and many others’ opinion).
I have focused on the Wish, and hence, its destination of the Bahamas. Other ships are sailing from Miami, Galveston, New Orleans, San Diego.
As a first-time cruiser, I can see wanting to try the new ship and go to Castaway Cay. It is doable, but it’s a tight stretch, budget-wise; especially if you can get a good airfare deal.
