Every week we will take a look at some fun, interesting, or new aspect of cruising the high seas!
Earlier this week, Disney Cruise Line release the remaining 2014 itineraries, completing a year of fun for the line. If you are anything like me, you are still struggling to remember that it’s 2013 when writing the date. So isn’t there still time to wait to plan a cruise for 2014?
Well, as you might have guessed, the answer is no, it’s not too early. In fact, the best time to book a Disney Cruise Line cruise is right when the rates are released. It might seem counter-intuitive, but as a ship sells, the prices of the staterooms goes up. So the first people to book will get the best deals. Since Disney Cruise Line often has popular itineraries that can sell out, discounts are hard to come by. If you have your heart set on a certain ship, itinerary, or type of room, make sure to book it early. If you are planning on sailing over a holiday, book early.
As you begin browsing the 2014 Disney Cruise Line itineraries, you will notice some exciting new additions. You will also notice that some of these itineraries are only offered for a short time, and some are only offered once. Booking now will ensure you get a stateroom on the sailing you want.
One of the most exciting things to note is that the Disney Magic will be back in the Mediterranean again. Sailing out of Barcelona and Venice, the Magic will be sailing a variety of Mediterranean itineraries, including new ports in the Greek Isles. Of course a trip like this requires a bit of planning, so take a look at the itineraries if the Mediterranean is on the horizon for you. My biggest problem with these options is which one to choose. They all look appealing.
If the Caribbean is more your style, the Magic will also be offering some new Southern Caribbean itineraries this year. (Apparently the Magic is the place to be for new Disney Cruise Line experiences this year!) Sailing out of Puerto Rico seems like a great way to add a few days exploring the island followed by a relaxing cruise. As with Europe, take a look at airfares to and from the port before booking your cruise, though. A fall cruise to the southern Caribbean sounds like a great idea to me.
If summer is your cruising time, consider a Disney cruise to Alaska. While this isn’t a typical sunbathing cruise, the amazing vistas are sure to make up for it. Family-friendly cruising and beautiful outdoor scenes sound like a perfect match to me!
Of course the traditional Caribbean and Bahamian itineraries are still available. The Dream and Fantasy are both sailing out of Florida in 2014.
Take a look at the complete listing of the 2014 itineraries (and 2013, too!) here: https://www.themouseforless.com/disney-cruise-line/cruise-itineraries/.
As you are browsing the options, and contemplating your next (or first) cruise itinerary, remember the advantage of early planning. The early bird save lots of dollars. Plus you have time to save for the remainder of your vacation. And if 2014 is too soon for your trip, remember that these tips will still apply in 2015. So get out your calendar and start planning!
Bon voyage!