How does DCL handle this...(kid related)

[lil mermaid]

We just returned from our first Disney cruise (May 7 Western.) We had a great time and celebrated our daughter's first birthday while onboard.

We would like to go on another cruise in two years, around the same time. So my question is this: How does DCL handle it if a child turns 3 while on the cruise? Does the child have to be paid for? (Under 3 is free.) And would she be able to use the kids club (of course assuming she is toilet trained by then.)

I have read on these boards that if a child checks into WDW while still 2 and turns 3 while on the same trip, the child will be free for the entire trip (or, if a child turns 10, can still use a kids ticket.)

NOT trying to cheat the system, just wondering because we will likely go during her birthday again.

 

[staceymerrill]

I think you get best of both worlds....

If child is under 3 on date of sailing, she will be free....also, if potty trained, I think you will have no problem getting her in Oceaneers 3-4 yr old group....

 

[Tay N Evie's Mom]

We actually had this happen to us. We took our twins on DCL for their 3rd birthdays. We set sail on Sat and they turned 3 on Sun. I was told by DCL that they consider the persons age based on the day you set sail-so my kids were still 2. I think we had to pay $100 per child and port fees (if you check the brochure kids under 3 are not free). But, since they turned 3 while on the cruise DCL allowed them to participate in the kids clubs. We also got lucky because at the time DCL had a promotion going for each adult that booked their air through DCL one child could fly free (but this was back in 2001). So we jumped on this offer. It's rare to get great deals with twins!

 

[rsjj]

yes, our DS was 2 when we sailed...but it wasn't free! we had to pay tax & port fees (if i recall!) but of course, the amound was very little, compared to what everyone else had to pay!

 

[lil mermaid]

Thanks for the info!

Yes, I realize it isn't totally free (we had to pay for port charges, etc for Madeline) but it is a heck of a lot less than paying for a child's fare!

Tay n Evies Mom, glad things worked out so well for you!

 

[kcashner]

The best of all possible worlds is to travel with a child who is within 30 days of turning 3 at the time of boarding AND is fully potty trained. They travel as a 2 year old (even if they turn 3 while on board), and can use the Oceaneer's Club as if they were 3.

No, it is not totally free--there is a small amount for port charges/tax, etc. And they DO count toward the number of people in a cabin. However, the charges are much less than the lowest child's fare.