Ahoy there, Denise, and welcome aboard planDisney! We're always glad to see Guests looking to plan Disney Cruises as far in advance as possible, because hey, that's what we do, too!
Disney Cruise Line usually releases schedules around 15 months in advance, so the summer of 2024 is likely to be announced in the spring of 2023 - though summer 2023 was announced in very late spring, so this is always subject to change. So, while the itineraries for 2024 will likely not be released for almost a year, there are a few "planDrew-approved" ways to prepare for when they do release!
- I suggest starting by looking at current itineraries to get an idea of what may be available when you are hoping to cruise. From shorter Bahamian itineraries to Transatlantic crossings, checking out what Ports of Call you'd like to see or what port you'd like to sail out of are other good starting points!
- With a crew of seven, unless you'd like to splurge on one of the largest royal suites on the ships of the Disney Cruise Line fleet, I'd suggest looking to split your crew into multiple staterooms! There are even adjoining staterooms that can help you have the space to spread out, without the premium that comes with Concierge accommodations!
- Definitely be sure to download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app! That way you can check out all of this information on your mobile device!
Now, when it comes to financing, Disney Cruise Line does not offer a payment plan, but when booking a stateroom, you'll be required to pay a deposit to secure your reservation! The remaining payment will be due at a later time known as your "Final Payment Due Date," and you can make partial payments as you WISH in any amount between making the deposit and that final date. So it's actually like the MOST custom payment plan on the high seas!
I hope that helps clear up your question, Denise! Thank you so much for sailing my way with your question, and if any others surface while you wait for the 2024 itineraries to come over the horizon, please send another message in a bottle my way here at planDisney!
Fair winds and following seas!
Andrew