Among the many cruise brands in the industry, Disney Cruise Line stands out for its modest loyalty program. While other cruise operators like Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer extravagant perks such as free cruises and big discounts, Disney’s loyalty program, known as the Castaway Club, focuses on providing valuable benefits and early access to new itineraries and onboard activities.
Earning status in the Castaway Club is straightforward. For every cruise you take, regardless of its length, you earn a credit towards your membership tier. The program consists of four tiers: Silver (after one cruise), Gold (after five cruises), Platinum (after ten cruises), and Pearl (after twenty-five cruises).
The perks for Silver members include the ability to book onboard cruise activities up to 90 days in advance and exclusive access to new itineraries one day before the general public. They also enjoy select port arrival times, a members-only direct phone line, and a welcome-back-aboard gift.
Gold members receive all the perks of Silver members, with the added benefit of being able to book onboard activities up to 105 days in advance and new itineraries two days ahead of the general public. They also have access to special discounts on voyages.
Platinum members enjoy even greater privileges, including booking onboard activities up to 120 days in advance and new itineraries three days before the general public. They also receive a free dinner at Palo, an upscale Italian restaurant on Disney ships.
The highest level of the Castaway Club, Pearl, offers the most exciting perks. Pearl members can book new itineraries four days before the general public and reserve onboard activities up to 123 days in advance. They also have the option to check-in for their cruise 40 days ahead of sailing. Additionally, Pearl members receive a complimentary unlimited digital photo package, a valuable benefit considering the high cost of onboard photographs.
While Disney’s loyalty program may not offer extravagant perks like some other cruise lines, the free dinner at Palo for Platinum members is an enticing offering. This perk, which includes an invitation for the elite member and another adult passenger in the same cabin, can save up to $100.
However, it’s important to note that Disney Castaway Club members no longer receive “forever status” upon reaching the various tiers of the program. As of 2024, members must book or complete an eligible Disney cruise at least once every five years to maintain their membership. This change means that if you want to preserve your loyalty level, it may be worth booking a Disney cruise or considering other family-friendly cruise brands such as Royal Caribbean.
In conclusion, Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Club loyalty program offers some valuable perks, including early access to new itineraries and onboard activities. However, compared to other cruise brands, Disney’s program is relatively modest. If you choose to sail with Disney, it should be because you love the brand, rather than expecting extravagant onboard recognition for your loyalty.