Starting June 18, 2025, Disney Cruise Line is making booking more accessible by reducing the required deposit for new reservations from 20% to 10% of the voyage fare. This change represents a significant shift in Disney’s booking policy, making it easier for families to secure their dream cruise vacation.
What’s Changing
The new 10% deposit requirement applies to all new bookings made on or after June 18, 2025. However, if you’ve already booked your cruise on or before June 17, 2025, your original 20% deposit remains unchanged in accordance with the terms you agreed to at booking.
How Cancellation Fees Are Affected
The updated deposit policy directly impacts cancellation fees for future sailings:
For New Bookings (June 18, 2025 and later):
- If you cancel during the deposit cancellation fee period, you’ll forfeit 10% of the voyage fare
- This aligns with the reduced deposit amount you initially paid
For Existing Bookings (June 17, 2025 and earlier):
- Cancellation fees remain at 20% of the voyage fare
- This matches the higher deposit amount you originally paid
Important Note: Deposits continue to be non-refundable for Concierge guests, regardless of the new policy.
Modification Options
If you have an existing reservation and want to take advantage of the new 10% deposit policy, you have options. Guests outside the cancellation fee period can cancel and rebook their reservation under the updated terms. However, be aware that standard cancellation fees may apply if your reservation falls within the cancellation fee period, as outlined in Disney’s terms and conditions.
Special Changes for Onboard Placeholder Offers
Disney is also updating its Onboard Placeholder program with even more favorable terms:
Reduced Deposit for Placeholders:
- Guests booking 7-night or longer sailings through placeholder reservations will only need to pay a 5% deposit
- If cancelled outside the deposit cancellation fee period, the cancellation fee is also just 5%
Streamlined Conversion Process:
- The three-day hold period when converting Onboard Placeholder Offers has been eliminated
- Deposits are now due immediately when converting placeholders, whether done through the Contact Center or online
- This change reflects the new ability to convert placeholders directly online
What This Means for Cruisers
These changes make Disney Cruise Line vacations more accessible by reducing the upfront financial commitment. The lower deposit requirement can help families secure their preferred sailing dates without the larger initial investment, while the streamlined placeholder process makes booking more convenient than ever.
Whether you’re planning your first Disney cruise or you’re a returning guest, these policy changes are designed to make the booking process smoother. Hopefully these changes mean that Disney Cruise Line will be releasing the remaining 2026 dates soon. Here are some tips for booking on the opening day.
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