Ahoy there, Patricia and welcome to planDisney!
In the words of the shopkeeper from Aladdin, "Ah, I see you are only interested in the exceptionally rare!" With
everything that's included on a Disney Cruise Line vacation I definitely understand your desire to find the cruise that will seem like the diamond in the rough!
My family has always found the best value when we've booked our cruises one of two ways: immediately after new itineraries are released or as a last-minute getaway. In both situations, we're always so ecstatic the minute we hit the button to make the reservation that we grab our phones, pull up the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app and get our first glimpse of the countdown. While it always seems like "TEN THOUSAND YEARS" until embarkation day no matter which itinerary we book, we like seeing those numbers start ticking down knowing we're staying "One Jump Ahead" of the details!
To make major changes to any reservation, I always advise to treat it like wishing on the magic lamp: you can't make a wish if you don't rub the lamp - or in this case,
call a Disney Cruise Line crew member to discuss your options. Believe me when I say you've never had a friend like the helpful shoreside crew members!
Now, in my experience, I've only ever noticed rates lower than when we've booked initially when considering downgrading our reservation to a lower stateroom category or Guaranteed Stateroom with Restrictions. It's important to remember, however, that stateroom categories with restrictions are usually non-refundable and must be paid-in-full at the time of booking, so the flexibility that comes with a "normal" stateroom is usually worth it to us. That said, your situation may vary, and if at any point you do decide to cancel and rebook, be sure to
stay aware of your cancellation fee schedule!
I hope that helps you find your way to the Cave of Wonders for you, Patricia! I hope you'll be setting sail with Disney Cruise Line soon! If you have any additional questions as you continue planning, please drop me a line! Thanks again for your question!
May your anchor be tight and your compass true,
Andrew