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  • On Mar 13, 2009
    Mary from SC Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi Kim! My family LOVES WDW and we've gone the last 5 years. Thinking of trying DCL and wondered when is your favorite time to sail? Also, when are the "off" or "value" seasons? Thanks, the panel is AWESOME and much appreciated!!!

    My favorite time to sail is March. The timing of a March cruise, allows us to escape some of the cold weather that we are still experiencing in Pennsylvania but the seas are calmer than in the winter months. The weather isn’t too hot in the Caribbean but it’s also pleasant enough to enjoy shore excursions, relaxing at the pool and late night strolls on deck.

    I have sailed many times in January as an attempt to escape the winter doldrums as well as celebrate our wedding anniversary. Each time, we have experienced some rough seas, cool weather in the Bahamas and once we experienced many rainy days and evenings in the Caribbean. Our shore excursions in Puerto Rico and St. Thomas were nearly rained out. Still, any time on a cruise ship is a vacation!

    If your goal is to sail with the likelihood of good weather and lower rates, try May. The weather is wonderful although you may experience some passing showers and the rates are lower because they are post-Spring Break, post-Easter and pre-Summer.

    You will find lower rates by sailing during late August, September, October and November. This “value” season corresponds with hurricane season. When sailing during this time, I would recommend purchasing trip insurance.

    I spoke with several DCL crew members, a Cruise journalist and other guests that find cruising in October to be delightful due to the pleasant temperatures and lower storm frequency. Also, I was reminded that a cruise ship is a safe place to be during a hurricane. If you are on an island vacation, your trip can be severely impacted. If you are on a cruise, the Captain will sail away from the storm, switch the order of the ports and/or steer towards an alternate port.

    As a frequent WDW guest, you’ll find that the Disney Cruise Line offers familiar magic while traveling across the sea!

    Thank you for your kind comments.
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Meet the Panelist: Kimberly, Tennessee

I am a stay-at-home mom with a 12 year old son. I thrive on planning vacations, especially to WDW. Inspiring families to vacation at Disney with a memorable itinerary and budget-saving tips is extremely rewarding for me. Learn More About Kimberly

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