The Disneyland Resort VIP tours are getting a commission adjustment starting in 2024. These private guided tours offer guests personalized itineraries, front-of-the-line access, and exclusive experiences at the Disneyland and California Adventure theme parks. As demand for the VIP tours continues to grow, Disney is implementing a slight commission decrease for travel agents booking these tours.
A Brief History of Disneyland VIP Tours
The VIP tour concept originated from Walt Disney himself in the early days of Disneyland. Walt started the Ambassador program to enhance the guest experience and showcase the magic of Disneyland. Over the years, the program evolved into the modern VIP tours:
- 1955 – Walt Disney personally trained the first tour guides, called Disneyland Ambassadors, to help guests navigate the new Disneyland Park.
- 1965 – Disneyland’s 10th anniversary – An expanded Ambassador program was created, including the role of Miss Disneyland.
- 1990s – The current VIP tour program launched, offering personalized itineraries and front-of-the-line access.
Today, the VIP tours allow guests to experience Disneyland like VIPs with exclusive perks and one-on-one service from expert Disney guides.
What Does a VIP Tour Include?
A Disneyland VIP tour includes:
- A personal VIP tour guide to escort your group throughout the parks
- Front-of-the-line access to rides and attractions using the Lightning Lane entrance
- Reserved viewing for shows, parades, and nighttime spectaculars
- Priority seating at select restaurants
- Behind-the-scenes tours of select attractions
- Reserved character meet and greet opportunities
- Customized itineraries based on guest preferences
- Exclusive experiences like private rides on select attractions after park closing
With all these perks and individualized attention, it’s easy to see why the VIP tours are so popular.
2024 Commission Adjustment Details
For 2024, Disney is implementing the following commission adjustment for travel agents booking Disneyland Resort VIP tours:
- Commission decreased from 10% to 8%
- Minimum tour length remains 7 consecutive hours
- Maximum tour capacity still caps at 10 guests
- Children under age 3 still count toward the 10-person maximum
Other Adjustments
Effective today, for reservations beginning Jan. 8, 2024, Disneyland Resort has added a commission rate opportunity on all standalone VIP Tours. Previously, VIP Tours needed to be booked as part of a package to receive commission.
The commission rate will be 10% on the minimum (seven-hour) VIP Tour, with hourly rates varying from $500-$700 an hour based on seasonality.
While the commission percentage is decreasing slightly, VIP tours are still an excellent add-on option for agents to provide high-end clients. The tours offer a concierge-level vacation experience that generates significant revenue.
Why Offer VIP Tours?
As a travel agent, recommending VIP tours has multiple benefits:
Higher customer satisfaction – The personalized service and stress-free park touring vastly enhances the Disneyland vacation.
Increased commission dollars – Despite the slight decrease, 8% commission on a $3,000+ tour still earns over $200 per booking.
Upsell opportunities – Agents can offer add-ons like extra tour time, upgrades, or special experiences.
Client retention – Clients who book a fantastic VIP vacation will return to book future trips.
Reputation building – Providing elite adventures like VIP tours elevates an agent’s expertise and credibility.
While the 2024 commission adjustment is disappointing, VIP tours deliver immense value for guests and agents alike. For travelers seeking a truly magical, hassle-free Disneyland getaway, the tours are an exceptional option.
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