by Military Diva
Disney World 2018 packages now available!
You read that correctly! Disney World has just announced their 2018 packages! Do you know what that means? For a $200 package deposit or a one-night deposit for room only bookings, you have access to Disney World’s best pricing and resort availability. You also have more than enough time to plan your dining reservations and Fast Pass+ selections!(ADR’s available to book 180 days prior to check-in; FP+ available 60 days prior to check-in for on site guests)
So what is new for 2018?
Resort Pricing
As expected, the cost for a Disney Resort room has increased. This past year has seen significant updates at many resorts: Caribbean Beach Resort is currently undergoing a huge overhaul, Coronado Springs is morphing into a Deluxe/Moderate hybrid and many rooms all over Disney property are seeing changes in bedding and decor.
September 4-9, 2017; 2 adults/2 children (9,5); Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Standard Room ** $1103.65
September 3-8, 2018; 2 adults/2 children (9,5); Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Standard Room ** 1183.50
Beautiful Coronado Springs Resort, included in Disney World Packages.
Ticket Pricing
No change here, for now! Ticket prices typically increase around February, so purchase your tickets prior to the increase.
One day tickets are still based on seasonal pricing and park use. Guests using one day tickets choose either the Magic Kingdom option or a ticket that allows entry into one of the other three parks. All tickets must be used by December 31, 2018 and expire 14 days after first use.
Multi-day tickets, whether 1 park/day or hopper passes, have consistent pricing. First use of tickets must be on December 31, 2018 or earlier. All ticket and add-on options (water parks, ESPN, etc) expire 14 days after first use.
*Florida residents have different ticketing rules.
Dining Plans
This has been the biggest surprise of the day! As usual, dining plan pricing has gone up, but only a few dollars per person per night.. The significant change to the Dining Plan comes in the form of new offerings
Specialty and alcoholic beverages are now included in the cost of the dining plan!!
Enjoying the Disney Dining Plan at Coral Reef
According to the Disney Travel Company…
“Guests under 21 can choose (1) non-alcoholic beverage (including specialty beverages where offered). Guests over 21 can choose either one (1) single serving non-alcoholic beverage (including specialty beverages where offered) or one (1) single serving mixed cocktail, beer, or wine (where offered) within their meal entitlement.”
Non-alcoholic beverages include your standard soda, coffee and tea but now include additional offerings such as artisanal milkshakes and fresh smoothies. Alcoholic beverages include beer, cider, wine, sangria, mixed beverages and cocktails. New beverage choices can be redeemed at both quick service and table service locations where available.
This is a huge move forward for many guests! Families that are not soda drinkers have healthier options with smoothies. Those that enjoy an alcoholic beverage now have that option. Or, you can enjoy the milkshake or specialty coffee as your dessert and box your actual dessert for later. Save that cupcake or muffin for your evening snack or morning breakfast. It’s Disney after all, who says you can’t have cake for breakfast!!
**Guests will be required to show id to redeem their alcoholic drink choice.
2018 Disney World Packages
2018 Packages include your room and ticket purchase, as a minimum. As in the past, guests may add dining packages, round trip air and complimentary Magical Express transportation between Orlando International Airport and their resort. There is now an option to add an Alamo rental car or paid airport transfer via private transportation company (sedan, SUV, limo, etc). Additional add-ons include Disney’s Memory Maker photo service, golf packages, in room gifting and decorating services, and accommodations at Disney’s Vero Beach vacation club resort.
Many complimentary magical extras are also included-(4) vouchers for 18 holes of mini golf, (4) vouchers for admission to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex), 10% off Sammy Duvall Water Sports packages and rentals, 10-20% off select dining venues and 10-20% off select shopping venues.
*ESPN admission does not include entry into special events such as ball games or concerts.
So how does pricing compare?
Here is an example for your consideration-
2017 Magic Your Way Standard Package; September 4-9, 2017; 2 adults/2 children (9,5); Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Standard Room; 6 day 1 park/day tickets; Disney Dining Plan ** $3671.12
2018 Magic Your Way Standard Package; September 3-8, 2018; 2 adults/2 children (9,5); Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Standard Room; 6 day 1 park/day tickets; Disney Dining Plan ** $3820.30
As expected, pricing increased here also. But again, considering resort refurbishments and dining enhancements the pricing is not that bad. The addition of Pandora, Star Wars and upcoming Pixar Land may also justify some of this cost.
**Pricing, while accurate as of June 20, 2017, can change at any time and should be used for example comparisons only.
Overall, we are very pleased with the enhancements, additions and pricing available for Disney World in 2018. So let’s get planning and saving for your next Disney vacation. And as always consider using our recommended travel agent, Patricia with All for Dreams Travel, for help booking your next Disney vacation! Click here for a free quote!
