Disney Cruise Line can be a fantastic vacation choice for those who love Disney but don’t love the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.

On DCL you can relax in the sun, eat as much as you’d like since most dining is included in the initial price, and explore ports of call you may never see otherwise! However, there are a few scams on and around Disney Cruise Line that you HAVE to be aware of.

Beyond Disney Cruise Line

Social Media Contests

If you see contests on social media advertising a free Disney Cruise (or any cruise, for that matter), proceed with extreme caution! Unless the contest is posted directly by Disney itself, there is a chance the “contest” could be a scam.

It could be a situation where the account disappears after you’ve “won” the contest but have paid lots of fees and other charges to “confirm your spot,” leaving you with no cruise at all. It could also be that you ARE getting a cruise, but it’s actually a timeshare program, so you’re forced to sit through a 5-hour presentation where you’re REALLY pushed to join the timeshare program. Be sure to do your research on any social media contest to ensure that it’s a reputable company!

Excursions at Port

Exploring your ports of call is one of the most exciting parts about cruising. HOWEVER, if you’re booking any, we highly recommend booking them directly through Disney. These are companies Disney works with directly and knows are reputable, and will make sure the boat waits for you if your excursion runs long, which is massively important.

We know, we know, booking with another local company may be WAY cheaper, but there’s usually a reason why. It could be because it’s a scam, the experience is not what it was listed to be, or you just find yourself in an awkward and potentially scary situation in a country you’re unfamiliar with. Plus, if your excursion runs long, your cruise ship won’t wait for you, and THAT could be a disaster. Again, just be sure to do your research about the company offering the excursion to ensure they’re a reputable company who will give you a great experience and get you back on time!

Bartering/Shopping

While you’re exploring your port of call, you may choose to go shopping at some of the local markets or stalls. This is a fantastic way to get to know the area you’re in, BUT just like any place you travel, you need to be aware of your surroundings and hold firm to your belongings and your boundaries.

You see, many countries partake in bartering, where the price of an item may not be absolutely set. You may be able to barter with the stall owner to get the price down (especially important since many will tell you a much higher price than normal because they know you’re a tourist). Or, you may be walking down the street and be asked to come towards stalls or stores that you have no interest going in. These salespeople may be VERY persistent, and it’s important to put your blinders on and stay firm in saying “no.”

It’s also of utmost importance to keep your money, important documents, phone, and other items safe on your person in fanny packs, hidden compartments, lockable zippers, etc. Pickpocketing is very much a thing (in many places you travel to), and if someone tries to hand you a bracelet, or a flower, or anything on the street, making you believe that it’s a free gift, it’s a wise idea to NOT take it, unless you’re ready to actually pay way more than the item is worth.

Taxi Services

If you’ve chosen to explore your port on your own, you’ll need to arrange for your own transportation. Many times, this means using a taxi service, but again, do your research!

Not all taxi and rideshare services are built the same, and some may upcharge you during your ride/immediately after, or again, get you in some uncomfortable situations. Be sure to do research on what companies are safe and highly reviewed in the area, even if it means calling Disney Cruise Line and asking them for their recommendations! They’ll be more than happy to help you out, and staying safe is always the #1 priority.

Disney Cruise Line “Scams”

As for things on Disney Cruise Line that aren’t scams, but can totally catch you off guard and feel like some if you’re not prepared, here’s what to watch out for:

• Wifi Charges: You’ll be able to use your Navigator App with DCL’s free wifi, but that’s it, unless you’d like to pay for more. And be sure to turn wifi roaming off on your phone, or turn airplane mode on when your cruise begins to ensure you don’t come home to an unexpected bill from your service provider.

• Loyalty Rewards: If you’ve cruised with Disney Cruise Line before, you become part of their Castaway Club program. These members get access to special bookings on the cruise before first-time cruisers (minus concierge level guests), which means some highly sought after bookings may already be gone before first-timers even can book.

• Concierge Level: While booking concierge level means you’re living the high life, oftentimes the price isn’t worth the stay if you’re not planning to spend 70% of your time in the Private Concierge Lounge. You will get access to premium bookings before many other cruisers, but if that’s not important to you, it may feel very underwhelming.

Disney Cruises are just as wonderful as the Disney parks, but they are a whole different beast and require different research that’s essential to a successful trip. We’re always here to help you plan your next Disney adventure, so stay tuned to DFB!

What would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments!