Hi there, Rachel!
Welcome back to planDisney. It looks like you enjoy visiting Walt Disney World Resort and sailing on the Disney Cruise Line as much as I do! Both offer unique experiences that my entire family enjoys.
Using
Disney Gift Cards for expenses onboard the Disney Cruise Line is a great way to save money during your vacation. Disney Gift Cards added to your stateroom folio (basically, your account) during your voyage will be applied towards any purchases made on your Onboard Account, including
Port Adventures (also known as excursions) and merchandise purchases. You can also add a credit card to cover any remaining expenses. Just stop by
Guest Services during your sailing to apply your Disney Gift Card to your folio.
If you would rather avoid dealing with the Disney Gift Card during your vacation, you can instead purchase Onboard Credit with your Disney Gift Card before you sail. This is what I do! The amount will be credited to your stateroom folio ahead of time, and then you do not have to worry about adding it while onboard the ship. Onboard Credit can be purchased by logging into your MyDisney account on the
Disney Cruise Line website. Under "Already Booked", select "
Onboard Gifts." Choose "Onboard Credit" under "Shop by Category" at the top of the page. It is very easy!
I recommend downloading the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app now if you have not done so already. My kids enjoy checking the adorable countdown calendar for our upcoming cruise, and I like being able to book
Port Adventures and
Onboard Activities on the app. Additionally, it has many helpful features that can be used during your cruise, including
rotational dining information and entertainment schedules. I also like using the app to send messages to family members sailing with me.
Rachel, thank you again for contacting planDisney. Have a wonderful vacation!
Happy sailing!
Jen