Tips for taking a Disney Cruise

Melissa Ulrich, owner of Disney-centered travel agency Trips to the Mouse, offered these tips for taking a Disney cruise. Learn more about her at tripstothemouse.com. • Book your cruise as soon as Disney releases the date and opens for bookings. “That is the very best price you’re going to get,” Ulrich said. If you can, it’s a good idea to book your next cruise while you’re on board the ship — you’ll get a discount and a stateroom credit for your next cruise. • On the day of your cruise, arrive as early as possible. “I always try to book my clients for the earliest possible time so they can enjoy the ship as much as they can even before their stateroom opens up.” • Book as many things in advance as you can. Ulrich recommends booking everything, from parking to shore excursions to character experiences, as early as possible. Some things, like character breakfasts and princess photo opps, have limited availability and could fill up. • Get trip insurance. It’s worth it, Ulrich said. “It’s rare that something goes wrong, but when it does go wrong, it’s really great to have that protection.” • Consider booking through a travel agent. Booking through a travel agent typically costs no more than booking directly through Disney — Ulrich’s services are complimentary with any booked vacation, for example — and can save you money because the agents will use their firsthand knowledge to tailor a trip that includes only what you want.