If you are considering a Disney Cruise Line adventure, you might have come across the term "Placeholder Reservation." But what exactly is it, and why should you consider making one? Let's delve into the details.
1. What is a Placeholder Reservation?
A Placeholder Reservation is essentially an open-ended reservation made exclusively onboard a Disney Cruise Line ship for a future sailing date within 24 months. It is a way to secure a spot for your next cruise without committing to a specific date or itinerary.
2. How much is a Placeholder Reservation?
To create a Placeholder Reservation, you must place a $250 deposit.Â
3. Why should I book a Placeholder?
The primary incentive for reserving a placeholder is the 10% discount available on prevailing rates, as quoted on the Disney Cruise Line website, coupled with the advantage of a reduced deposit for sailings lasting 7 nights or more.
4. What if I change my mind?
Yet another compelling reason for securing a placeholder is that if you decide to cancel your placeholder or do not pick a specific sailing date by the end of the 24 months, it is fully refundable! This is game-changing in the cruise industry, as most cruise lines typically do not offer refunds for future voyage deposits if they are not utilized. However, it is essential to note that standard cancellation fees will apply once specific travel dates are chosen.
5. Can I still use my Travel Agent with a Placeholder?
Absolutely! If you wish to use your Travel Agent with your Disney Cruise Placeholder, you can request your reservation to be linked to your current agent as you create the reservation. If you do not have a travel agent, want to change your agent, or did not get the chance to link him/her previously, you have 30 days after you place your reservation to do so. Also, if you prefer utilizing Costco, you can still enlist their services seamlessly alongside your Placeholder Reservation - make sure you do this within 30 days.
6. What are the restrictions?
When considering Placeholder Reservations, it is important to note that the offer extends to a maximum of two staterooms per household for a single sail date, irrespective of the household's adult count.
Furthermore, this offer applies solely to Categories 4 to 11. This means that suites and Disney Cruise concierge staterooms are excluded from the offer. Therefore, to benefit from the placeholder reservation offer, you must opt for an inside, ocean view, or verandah cabin.
Furthermore, the cruise must commence within 24 months of booking; otherwise, the reservation will automatically be canceled. For instance, if you placed your reservation on January 22, 2024, you have until January 21, 2026, to commence your new sailing. Failure to do so will result in automatic cancellation of the reservation, and the deposit will be refunded.
This offer cannot be combined with discounts such as Florida Resident Rates, U.S. Military Rates, or any other special offers. Moreover, it does not extend to categories like VGT, OGT, or IGT with restrictions (which are guaranteed staterooms). It is also not applicable for 2-night sailings. Additionally, it is crucial to note any blackout dates, which are listed below for reference.
Onboard Offer Blackout Dates:
Disney Dream - 11/20/2023, 12/23/2023, 12/28/2023, 03/31/2024, 11/23/2024, 11/27/2024, 12/21/2024, 12/26/2024, 12/30/2024 Â Â
Disney Fantasy - 11/18/2023, 12/23/2023, 12/30/2023, 03/23/2024, 03/30/2024, 06/08/2024, 11/23/2024, 12/22/2024, 12/26/2024, 12/29/2024
Disney Magic - 11/18/2023, 06/06/2024, 11/25/2024, 12/29/2024
Disney Wonder - None
Disney Wish - 11/20/2023, 12/22/2023, 12/26/2023, 12/29/2023, 03/25/2024, 03/29/2024, 04/01/2024, 11/25/2024, 12/23/2024, 12/27/2024, 12/30/2024, 04/14/2025, 04/18/2025, 04/21/2025
Disney Treasure - 12/21/2024, 12/28/2024
7. How to book your Placeholder Reservation?
To secure your placeholder, access the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app while onboard and find the option labeled "10% off a future cruise." Then, indicate whether you wish to place deposits on 1 or 2 staterooms. After that, you will be on a payment page.
Should you prefer to use a different credit card than the original form of payment on file for your deposit, you can easily update your payment information within the app. In case of any difficulties, you can seek assistance from Guest Services, as the Future Cruise Sales Desk has been closed post-COVID, and they are available to provide support.
When you make a Placeholder Reservation, you will receive a confirmation email containing your reservation number and other pertinent details. This email serves as proof of your reservation and includes instructions on how to proceed with finalizing your booking at a later time.
Example of Savings
Let's say you just got off a Disney Cruise Ship and made a Disney Cruise Placeholder booking! Now, you want to go on the Disney Treasure, the brand-new ship that launches in December 2024, for your next Disney Cruise Line Vacation.Â
Specifically, you are considering their 7-night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral itinerary sailing out in February 2025. The cost for a family of four (2 adults and 2 children) to stay in an Oceanview room will be around $7,831.12 with taxes and fees of $691.12. The 10% off from your Placeholder will save you $714 on your sailing!Â
Plus, the $250 deposit you made onboard will go directly toward paying a portion of your total amount due. The best part about this sailing option is that it will also provide you with a reduced deposit since it is a sailing lasting 7 nights or more.
Recap
Disney Cruise Line offers Placeholder Reservations for your future Disney Cruise, and the only way to book this special offer is while onboard your current cruise. The placeholder deposit is only $250 and gives you two fantastic incentives of 10% off your next magical Disney Cruise and a reduced deposit for sailings 7-nights or longer - all without having to book your specific cruise right then and there. If you enjoyed your time on your cruise, make sure you take advantage of this offer and book your Disney Cruise Line Placeholder!
8. I am ready to pick my sailing, now what?
If you linked a travel agent to your placeholder, you will contact them with your preferred sailing information, and they will figure it out for you. If you did not link a travel agent, once you are ready to select your cruise, you will call 1-800-939-2784 for further assistance!
Important Note to Reiterate
A Placeholder Reservation is a Disney Cruise Line Onboard Booking Offer ONLY. You cannot book a placeholder once you get back home.
​Happy Sailing!
A Placeholder Reservation with Disney Cruise Line is a fantastic opportunity to secure future voyages at sea with great savings and flexibility. With no catch, thanks to the refundable deposit, no cruise enthusiast should miss out on this chance to save on their next magical cruise adventure. Do not hesitate to seize this opportunity for an unforgettable journey on the high seas!
Check out my other Disney Cruise Line blog posts below:
How much does a Disney Cruise cost? Pricing and More - Have you wanted to go on a Disney cruise, but have always heard they are expensive? Check out this post for information on the cost & more!
What's Included and Not Included in your Disney Cruise Fare - Going on or thinking about going on a Disney Cruise & wanting to know more about what is and is not included? Check out this ultimate guide!
Things to Do on the Disney Wish: Onboard Activities - The Disney Wish is the largest Disney cruise ship & with that, it has a ton of onboard activities for everyone to enjoy! Click to learn more
Disney Cruise Line Port Canaveral: Terminal Info and More - Everything you need to know for getting to and parking at Disney Cruise Line's Terminal at Port Canaveral, Florida! Check it out!
Menus for Disney Wish Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure - Dining at Arendelle on the Disney Wish is an experience like no other! Check out this post for more details on what you can expect to enjoy!
Disney Castaway Cay 5K: Details on How to Participate - Disney Castaway Cay 5K is a fun run for all ages on Disney's private island, Castaway Cay! The best part? It is free and at your own pace!
Your Guide to Disney Cruise Line's Drink Packages - Discover Disney Cruise Line's unique drink options – from beer and wine packages to onboard beverage tastings. Cheers to a magical voyage!
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