Transportation Q for BLT/Fantasy in 4/2012

[Disney52303]

We have been booked on an April 2012 Fantasty cruise since the day we could book in October 2010. I just today booked a BLT studio for the night before the cruise!! We are very excited for ToTW!

DH and I have been researching transportation options as we want to stay at the Nick resort the night after the cruise before coming home. Disney DCL r/t transportation is $280 plus extra to get to the Nick resort so it's not a great option. We also like to get to the port early if possible.

In all the times I have been to Disney we have never rented a car. I managed to get a 1 way rental for a mid-size before the cruise for $20; waiting and hoping for a good rate for one night after. For what it'll cost me to pay DCL transportation, we can get 2 car rentals plus a night at Nick. Down side is I have to take boosters on the ship and hang on to/check my luggage till our stateroom is ready. I'm okay with that.

We've cruised NCL before and drove so I'm familiar with bringing our own luggage. Just looking for thoughts/opinions on my plan. I think it sounds fine but I need reassurance! Is it a huge pain to deal with the rental process/parking or will I love having the car? Once we get to BLT we may play mini golf and/or go to Downtown Disney. Plus a side trip to the grocery for some necessities before heading to the ship. Thank you thank you to any car rental veterans!

 

[karana]

car rentals are very inexpensive and you can usually get good deals. I would rent for sure!

 

[disneynutz]

Car rentals leaving the ships are limited and they book early so be prepared.

Bill

 

[bobbiwoz]

The one time we had the family with us and rented a car to go back to the airport, DH boarded the rental car bus and came back to get all of us and our luggage. It was a DCL cruise, but it was about 2 1/2 years ago. It seemed pretty easy.

 

[CarolMN]

Don't they have parking at the terminal?

If so, I'd research the cost of renting the car at MCO and then returning it there after the trip.

Yes, you would also have to pay for parking, but you would be assured of a car for your departure and you could just lock the car seats in the trunk, along with anything else you don't really need on the ship.

Might be worth it.