Will the DDP really save us money?

[TDC Nala]

think even Disney themselves in their promotional materials only describes it as a "20% savings".

It's down to "up to a 15% savings" in the promotional materials for 2013, for the regular DDP.

And they always use "up to," as the level of savings depends entirely on how each group uses the plan.

 

[bdklein]

We are debating this as well for our April 2013 trip. THe dining plan has almost doubled in price since we first visited Disney in 2005. We have 5 kids and a baby. We all enjoy the charcter meals but enjoy other restaurants just as much (The castle i tradition though). I've been crunching numbers and can't help but feel like the big value of DDP no longer exists (used to be advertised as save up to 40%). If it's free it's a no brainer but we have a 40% room discount. Not sure free dining or buying the DDP is worth it this time around.

The value is gone. Even Disney states it. No longer is gratuity included. And no more appetizer. Prices way up relative to the price of the food. Do you want dessert all the time? Non-alcoholic bevergare? Refillable mug?
Keep in mind you can get free water at CS locations. Do you always want the most expensive thing on the menu?

DP is a money maker for Disney. They get your money up front, and then hope you don't use all the credits (which many don't).

 

[tzeitel]

People always bring up that the DDP no longer has apps or tips - it has been YEARS since this change happened! Most ppl do not even know that the plan used to include them. Yes we know it is not as good a value as it was when the plan first started - let it go

OP - if you are planning on doing character meals/family style then it is a good deal. For kids, going to one character meal pays for a whole day on the plan.

If your DD wants princesses, Akershus is 1 credit (as opposed to CRT which is 2). If you are going to see F! then do the package at Mama Melrose which gives you an app, entree and dessert. Chefs de France has a fixed price menu which includes an app. I know there are a couple of other restaurants that have a fixed price menu that includes apps if that is a major concern. Just remembered - Kona has it for dinner.

Alot of ppl like the convinience of pre-paying (some will tell you that the same can be done by buying gift cards). We actually think it is a good deal for us...for now. DD will be a "Disney adult" after this trip but she does not eat like one so this will probably be the last time we do the plan unless it is free.