Where and When to Book?

[Doodlebug939]

I am new to the cruise idea. We (Myself, DH, DS (7 at time of cuise and DD 5 at time of cruise) want to do a western cruise in Nov of 2005.

When do the dates come out?

Is it better book early?

Who should I use? I mean if I call Disney and a deal comes out will they change my reservation to match the new deal? Or if I use some company online (yahoo or who ever) can they do the same?

I know a lot of questions, sorry. BUt the sooner I book then I can pay it off slower without feeling it in the monthly budget so much.

Thanks for your time.

 

[kcashner]

For the first time, you might be happier with a local TA. That way, you have someone you can call whenever you have a question. DCL conducts training courses for most of the bigger travel companies.

As to when to book...the fall 2005 dates should be coming out in the next few months. Generally, dates are available about 18 months in advance. You should book as soon as you are "pretty sure" about what you want. You will get an early booking credit. IF the price of your cruise, your category goes down, DCL will match the lower price. More often, the price goes up as it gets closer to cruise time, in which case you are locked in at the lower rate.

Just start putting money away now...then when the dates come out, you are ready to book.

 

[MO Disney cruiser]

Book as soon as the dates come out. Which should be by spring at the latest. DCL offers early booking discounts. People have had cruises go up several thousand dollars from what they paid when booking early.

Who to book with? That's a matter of what you want. You can book with DCL direct, which is my preference. When you book direct they can talk to you about any question you may have about the reservation. If you have a TA, they will only talk to the TA.

Many people use either local or online TAs (such as Dream Unlimited who sponsors this board) Some get discounts off of what DCL direct offers. If you do a search, you can probably find comments (good/bad) on any online TA you might be interested in.

 

[shelly3girls]

We booked our next cruise with DU. I am normally a total control freak, but it has been a pleasant experience. Regina has been fabulous. I have emailed tons of questions and always receive a timely response. We received a rebate on our cruise which we would not have received through DCL and I think this is pretty standard with DU.