Ahoy there, Susanna, and welcome back to planDisney! See the line where the sky meets the sea? That's where you can spot your upcoming cruise because it'll be here before you know it. Let's talk strategy for securing a cabana.
One of my favorite ways to spend the day at both of Disney's private destinations is with a cabana. I've been lucky enough to enjoy them on both islands, and I've been successful using all of the tips I'm about to share. Since demand seems to always outweigh supply, please keep in mind these tips aren't guaranteed to work, but you'll give yourself the best possible chance if you try one or more.
You're probably already aware that Disney Cruise Line uses a tiered system for booking things like Onboard Fun and
Port Adventures, which cabanas fall under. Guests staying in Concierge staterooms get first dibs, followed by
Castaway Club status, which is Disney Cruise Line's loyalty program. For this reason, the best chance at scoring a cabana is by booking one of the Concierge staterooms, which is really a fantastic experience in and of itself. Any cabanas not booked by Concierge Guests will be available when each Castaway Club tier is able to book, until they are all sold out. Since you're seeing a message to check onboard, that means all cabanas are currently reserved by other Guests. Not all is lost, though.
Keep checking the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator App up until three days prior to your cruise. People change their minds, and if someone cancels, you'll be able to grab it if you're fast. I tend to check multiple times throughout the day when I'm on the hunt. Once you board, you can request to be placed on the wait list at Guest Services. If one becomes available for you, you'll get a phone call offering it to you. I've also had success meeting people who are on my cruise and are looking for people to share their cabana and cost with.
Susanna, if all else fails, you'll find plenty to do on both islands without this extra treat. There are plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas and so many fun activities. I like to find a spot near the water, grab a cold beverage and let the sound of the waves wash all my cares away. I know that sounds cliche, but it really is true.
I hope your cabana dreams come true and that you have the most wonderful cruise. Please come back to planDisney with any other questions.
Have a magical cruise!
Melanie