Why NOW May Be the Best Time to Book a 2021 Cruise

As travel advisors, we always encourage our clients to book vacations as early as they are able.
Now more than ever, as we look to brighter days and await the return of travel, it is imperative to understand the importance of booking early with Disney Cruise Line for 2021 sailings.

On March 13th, Disney Cruise Line suspended their departures through the end of the month as the uncertainty surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic spread through the United States. What started as a 2 week freeze rapidly turned into a nine month (and counting…) pause in cruising*. The longer the suspension went, the more time Disney Cruise Line had to generously entice their travelers to return when the world reopens. Disney Cruise Line began offering Future Cruise Credit (FCC) ranging up to 125% of their original package price to travelers who were impacted by the suspensions.

What Does This Mean For You?

You are competing with travelers who need to use their Future Cruise Credit before March 31, 2022. Currently, we are able to book Disney Cruise Line through December 2021. With travel plans being cancelled for this year, chances are people are going to want to get their make-up vacation on the books for sooner rather than waiting to book a 2022 itinerary.

You are also competing with travelers with Future Cruise Credit who have already jumped at the opportunity to book what limited staterooms are available for the limited capacity. We do not know what kind of capacity cruise ships are going to permit once we are allowed to sail again. Sure, we have all read the blogs that have predictions; but, it is safe to say cruise lines will not sail at 100% capacity immediately — or even for a while. If you have your eye on a specific sailing or room type, be sure to take advantage of the ability to reserve your room now!

What Do You Have To Lose?

Nothing! Any monies put toward your Disney Cruise Line itinerary is fully refundable up to 90 days prior to travel. Plus Disney Cruise Line has implemented the Cruise Date Flexibility policy. For any cruises booked by October 31, 2020 for sailings through May 2021, travelers can rest assured knowing you can change your sail date up to 15 days prior to departure. Having the peace of mind that you are able to modify your travel dates that close in the event your plans need to change is a really big deal.

If we have learned anything this year, there is no perfect time to travel; but, it is so nice to have something to look forward to! Talk to your Small World BIG FUN travel advisor today!

*As of September 15, 2020 Disney Cruise line announced they are extending the suspension of all cruise departures through at least December 6, 2020. Sailing onboard the Disney Fantasy will be canceled thru December 6, the Disney Dream and Disney Wonder through December 11, and Disney Magic through December 12.