Ahoy, Stephanie!
Congratulations on your upcoming vacation to the Walt Disney World Resort! I love that you are already thinking ahead to another Disney vacation aboard Disney Cruise Line! I hope this will be your first of "minnie" questions to the Disney Parks Moms Panel about a voyage with Captain Mickey!
In the past, summer sailings have been announced about 18 months ahead of time. The summer of 2018 itineraries were released in February of this year, so I would keep a close eye on the
Disney Parks Blog starting in early 2018 for the most up-to-date cruise information. Booking early is important especially when you want to cruise during a peak time like summer. Typically rates are lower, and you'll have a better chance to snag Main Seating dining the earlier you book. At the time of booking, you will be asked to make a deposit, which is normally 20 percent of the total cost of your cruise. This deposit is fully refundable in the event you need to cancel as long as you cancel before your final payment is due (unless you have booked a Concierge-level stateroom). Final payment dates vary according to a few factors like number of nights, holiday/non-holiday sailings, U.S. departure port/non-U.S. departure port and Concierge-level staterooms, so you'll want to pay close attention to the date your final payment is due when you book. It can range from 75 to 120 days. I'm not aware of any special perks with your Disney Visa at this time, but you can make partial payments at anytime by calling Disney Cruise Line at (800) 951-3532.
We usually book our cruises on opening day so I find that it gives us plenty of time to budget for the total cruise cost as well as plan for our onboard extras. Most of those extras are not charged until your actual cruise so everything is spaced out pretty well.
I hope this helps, Stephanie! Please let us know if you have other questions!
Nancy