+1-877-777-6741A Disney Cruise is a magical experience, but upgrading your stateroom can take your voyage to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a free room upgrade or willing to pay for an upgrade, there are several ways to enhance your stay. Here, we’ll explore costs, methods, and insider tips to help you secure a better room.
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What Is the Best Room You Can Get on a Disney Cruise Ship?
The best rooms on a Disney Cruise are Concierge Staterooms, which offer exclusive perks like priority boarding, private lounges, and personalized service. These rooms include:
| Room Category | Ship Availability | Size (Sq Ft) | Key Features | Avg. Price/Night |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concierge Royal Suite | Disney Wish/Treasure | 1,966 | Private hot tub, 2 bedrooms, 24/7 butler service, priority boarding | $4,000-$8,000 |
| Tower Suite | Disney Treasure | 2,000+ | Two-story windows, VIP lounge access, sleeps 8 | $5,000-$10,000 |
| 1-Bedroom Concierge Suite | All ships | 614-1,029 | Concierge lounge access, premium amenities, priority tendering | $2,500-$5,500 |
| Deluxe Family Oceanview | Magic/Wonder | 304-394 | Split bathroom, extra storage, large porthole | $600-$1,200 |
| Secret Verandah (7A) | Magic/Wonder | 268 | Partially obstructed balcony at oceanview prices | $400-$900 |
| Star Wars & Marvel Suites | Disney Wish/Treasure | 280-400 | Themed decor, interactive elements, special programming | $1,200-$2,500 |
| Standard Verandah | All ships | 246-299 | Private balcony, split bathrooms | $500-$1,500 |
Can You Upgrade Your Room on a Disney Cruise?
Yes—but unlike Royal Caribbean or Carnival, Disney doesn’t have a bidding system (like RoyalUp). Upgrades depend on:
- Upgrade at the Port: One of the best ways to get an upgrade is at the port on embarkation day. If there are unsold staterooms, Disney Cruise Line may offer upgrades at a discounted rate. Simply ask at the check-in counter if any upgrades are available.
- Book a Guaranteed Stateroom: Booking a Guaranteed Stateroom means you select a category but not a specific room. If Disney Cruise Line needs to free up lower-category rooms, you might get upgraded for free to a better stateroom.
- Check for Promotions: Disney occasionally offers free upgrade promotions, especially during off-peak seasons. Keep an eye on their website or work with a travel agent to find these deals.
- Upgrade Before Sailing: If you want a guaranteed upgrade, you can modify your reservation online before your cruise. Log into your Disney Cruise account and check if higher-category rooms are available.
How to Get a Free Room Upgrade on Disney Cruise?
Free upgrades are extremely rare, but these strategies might work:
- Book Early & Watch for Promotions: Disney occasionally offers “Free Upgrade” sales (e.g., “Book Verandah, Get Concierge Access”). These are usually targeted emails to past guests.
- Celebrate a Special Occasion: Disney loves magic! If you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or first cruise, note it when booking. Sometimes Cast Members surprise guests with upgrades.
- Ask at Check-In: If the ship isn’t full, politely inquire about upgrades at Port Arrival. Success rate: <5%, but worth a try!
- Travel Agent Perks: Some authorized Disney planners secure free upgrades for group bookings (8+ rooms).
Disney Cruise Room Upgrade Cost: Paid Options
Disney’s upgrades are pricey but seamless. Here’s what to expect:
| Upgrade Path | Average Cost Range | How to Request | Best Time | Included Perks | Smart Booking Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inside → Oceanview | $200 – $800 total | Call (800) 951-3532 | Wave Season (Jan-Mar) | Larger window | Not worth it unless <$50/night |
| Oceanview → Verandah | $500 – $2,500 total | Online or via travel agent | After final payment | Private balcony | Book “7A Secret Verandah” for 30% savings |
| Verandah → Concierge | $1,500 – $5,000+ | Must call in advance | At time of booking | Lounge access, priority boarding | New ships (Treasure) have most availability |
| Standard → 1-Bedroom Suite | $2,000 – $8,000+ | Phone request only | 6+ months pre-cruise | Separate living room | Only 2-4 suites per ship |
| Concierge → Royal Suite | $3,000 – $15,000+ | Through Disney Planner | When new itineraries launch | Butler service, free alcohol (on Wish) | Requires concierge pre-booking |
Note: Prices vary by ship (e.g., upgrades on the Disney Wish cost more than the Disney Magic).
How to Get a Free Verandah (Balcony) Upgrade?
Getting a free verandah (balcony) upgrade on a cruise is rare, but there are a few strategies that can increase your chances:
Book a Guaranteed Stateroom
- Some cruise lines offer “guaranteed” staterooms, where you book a category but not a specific room.
- If the cruise line needs to free up lower-category rooms, you might get upgraded for free to a balcony cabin.
Look for Free Upgrade Promotions
- Cruise lines occasionally run free upgrade promotions, especially during off-peak seasons.
- These promotions may allow you to book an ocean-view room at the price of an interior or a balcony at the price of an ocean-view.
Join Loyalty Programs
- Frequent cruisers may receive exclusive upgrade offers through loyalty programs.
- Higher-tier members often get priority for complimentary upgrades.
Ask at the Port
- On embarkation day, check with the port staff to see if any balcony upgrades are available.
- If there are unsold balcony rooms, you might get an upgrade at a discounted rate or even for free.
Bid for an Upgrade
- Some cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, offer bid-based upgrade programs where you can place a bid for a higher-category room.
- If accepted, you’ll pay the bid amount, which is often lower than the standard upgrade cost.
Can You Change Your Room After Booking?
Yes! You can change or upgrade your Disney Cruise room after booking, but it depends on availability and fare conditions. Here’s how:
Modify Your Reservation Online
- Log into your Disney Cruise Line account and go to the My Reservations page.
- If your stateroom is eligible, select “Modify or Cancel Reservation” to change your room.
- You can upgrade to a higher-category room or switch to a different location, subject to availability.
Contact Disney Cruise Line or Your Travel Agent
- If you need assistance, call Disney Cruise Line customer support or reach out to your travel agent.
- They can check for available rooms and help you make changes.
Request a Room Change at the Port
- On embarkation day, visit the port check-in counter and ask if any upgrades or room changes are available.
- If there are unsold staterooms, you may be able to switch rooms for an additional fee or even at a discount.
Special Accommodations
- If you need a room change due to medical, accessibility, or family needs, Disney Cruise Line may accommodate your request without penalties when appropriate documentation is provided.
Are There Fees for Changing Your Disney Cruise Room?
Yes, changing your room on a Disney Cruise may come with fees, depending on the timing and type of modification. Here’s what you need to know:
| Type of Change | Fee | How to Request | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Same Category (e.g., Deck Move) | $0 | Online via “My Disney Cruise” | 5 days before sailing |
| Upgrade (e.g., Oceanview → Verandah) | Price difference + $25 admin fee* | Call (800) 951-3532 | 5 days before sailing |
| Downgrade (Rarely Allowed) | 50% of original fare | Phone request only | 30 days before sailing |
| GTY (Guarantee) Room Assignment | $0 (but no changes allowed) | Automatic assignment | After final payment |
| Special Needs Modification | $0 | Submit medical documentation | 30 days before sailing |
Top 3 Insider Tips for Disney Upgrades
Looking to score a Disney Cruise room upgrade? Here are some insider tips to boost your chances:
- “Secret Porthole” Rooms: Book category 7A on Magic/Wonder—partially obstructed oceanview for interior prices!
- Fish Extender Groups: Some Disney forums trade upgrade tips.
- Castaway Club Perks: Platinum members (25+ cruises) occasionally get upgrades.
Check Here: Disney Cruise Refund Policy
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your Disney Cruise stateroom can make your vacation even more magical. Whether you’re looking for a free upgrade or willing to pay for a better room, using these strategies will help you secure the best possible accommodations.
FAQs on Disney Cruise Room Upgrades
Is There a Way to Upgrade Room on a Disney Cruise?
To upgrade your Disney Cruise room, you can modify your reservation online, ask at port check-in, or book a Guaranteed Stateroom for a chance at a free upgrade.
How to Get a Free Room Upgrade on Disney Cruise?
Free upgrades are rare, but they do happen! Booking during off-peak seasons, joining Castaway Club, and politely asking at embarkation check-in may increase your chances.
How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade Your Room on a Disney Cruise?
Upgrade costs vary by room type, ship, and availability. Port upgrades may be discounted, while pre-sailing upgrades require paying the full price difference.
Are There Discounts for Disney Cruise Room Upgrades?
Yes! You may find discounted upgrades at the port, through special promotions, or by booking a Guaranteed Stateroom where Disney selects your final room.
What Are the Chances of Getting a Free Disney Cruise Room Upgrade?
Upgrades are not guaranteed, but booking early, traveling in less busy seasons, and being a repeat cruiser with Castaway Club status improves your chances.
What is the cheapest room upgrade on Disney Cruise?
Oceanview → Verandah: $500 – $2,500 total
Does Disney Cruise have a bidding system like RoyalUp?
No – Upgrades require calling (800) 951-3532 or working with a travel agent.
Can I change my Disney Cruise room after booking?
Yes! Same-category changes are free online; upgrades incur cost difference + $25 fee.
Can kids stay free in upgraded rooms?
Only if keeping original bedding configuration. Upgrading to larger suites may require paying child rates.
Do Florida resident discounts apply to upgrades?
Yes – Save 25-40% on upgrade costs if booked under FL resident rate.