Hey Disney Vacationers! I f you’re planning a Disney Cruise or thinking about rebooking, there’s a big update you need to know. As of June 18, 2025, Disney Cruise Line is reducing the required deposit and making changes to its cancellation fees.
This is a major shift that could save you money—or catch you off guard if you’re not up to speed. Here’s exactly what changed, who it affects, and how to make sure you benefit.
Quick Glance at the New Policy
| Category | Old Policy | New Policy (Effective June 18, 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Deposit | 20% of voyage fare | 10% of voyage fare |
| Concierge Deposit | non-refundable | still non-refundable |
| Standard Cancellation Fee | 20% of voyage fare | Matches the deposit paid (10% or 20%) |
| Placeholder Deposit (7+ night sailings) | 20% (after date selected) | 5% of voyage fare |
| Placeholder Cancellation Fee | 20% | 5% (if outside cancellation fee period) |
| Hold on Placeholder Conversions | 3-day hold | Removed – deposit now due immediately |
What Changed in Plain Terms
1. Deposit Now 10% for New Bookings
Starting June 18, 2025, new bookings only require a 10% deposit instead of the previous 20%. That’s a nice savings upfront—especially if you’re booking a longer itinerary or a family-sized stateroom.
Important: This applies only to new reservations made on or after June 18. If you booked before that date, your deposit remains at 20%.
2. Cancellation Fees Now Match the Deposit
If you cancel during the deposit cancellation period, your fee will now match the deposit you originally paid.
- Booked at 10%? You lose 10% if you cancel.
- Booked at 20%? You lose 20% if you cancel.
Concierge bookings remain non-refundable regardless of deposit percentage.
3. Placeholder Deposits Are Dropping to 5%
When you convert an onboard placeholder to a cruise that’s 7 nights or longer, the deposit drops to just 5%.
If you later cancel outside the cancellation fee window, the cancellation fee is also just 5%.
Also, the 3-day grace period to pay your deposit when converting a placeholder is gone. Deposits are due immediately when you convert—whether online or by phone.
What If You Booked Before June 18?
You’re locked into the terms you agreed to at the time of booking. That means if you paid a 20% deposit, your cancellation fee will also be 20% if you cancel in that window.
But here’s a pro tip:
If you’re outside the cancellation fee period, you can cancel and rebook under the new policy to take advantage of the lower 10% deposit. Just know that:
- You risk losing your current stateroom or fare.
- You may be subject to new pricing or availability.
- Standard cancellation rules still apply if you’re already in the penalty period.
Key Takeaways
- 10% deposit now required on most new Disney Cruise bookings.
- Cancellation fees will mirror the deposit paid.
- Placeholder conversions for 7+ night sailings now only require 5% deposit.
- No more grace period to pay placeholder deposits—payment is due at conversion.
FAQs About the Deposit & Cancellation Changes
Q: Does this apply to cruises already booked before June 18?
No. Those reservations remain under the original 20% deposit and cancellation policy.
Q: Can I cancel and rebook under the new terms?
Yes—if you’re outside the cancellation penalty window. Just weigh the risk of price increases or losing your stateroom.
Q: Are Concierge deposits still non-refundable?
Yes. There is no change to this policy.
Q: Are Placeholder reservations for shorter cruises affected?
The 5% deposit rule applies only when adding a sail date to a Placeholder that’s 7 nights or longer.
Q: Will the deposit show as non-refundable during online booking?
Yes, for Concierge. For other bookings, it will depend on the fare type and cancellation window.
Final Thoughts
This update to Disney Cruise required deposit and cancellation fees is a solid win for most guests—especially families booking multiple staterooms or longer voyages. You’ll pay less upfront, and you’ll get more flexibility if you need to cancel.
But don’t assume this means zero risk. If you’re booking Concierge or if you’re inside your cancellation window, you could still lose out.
Keep your dates straight. Know your terms. And if you’re unsure? Reach out to your Disney Vacation Planner or Disney Cruise Line directly to confirm how the policy applies to you.
And if you’re ready to book? That 10% deposit just made that dream cruise feel a little more doable.
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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
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