Summer is almost over, and you might already be missing that incredible vacation you just had.

If you’re thinking about your next escape from reality, there are several important factors to consider: Where do you want to go? Do you want to have an adventurous or a relaxing vacation? How do you want to get there? Perhaps a cruise has piqued your interest, but you’re wondering just when is the best time to go. We’ve been on our fair share of sailings, and now we’re bringing you our best tips on when to book a Disney cruise!

The Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of different cruises for all sorts of vacations. You can sail to the Bahamas and the Caribbean, Europe and the Mediterranean, Alaska, and more! Deciding when to book your cruise can mean the difference between getting a great deal or paying a pretty penny, and choosing when to sail can be an even tougher decision.

Let’s find out everything you need to know about when to book and set sail on your Disney cruise!

When to Book Your Disney Cruise

You might think that it doesn’t matter when you actually book your cruise — but it does! Generally speaking, the further away from your selected sail date you book your cruise the better.

The Disney Cruise Line has tiered pricing, meaning you’ll find lower rates the earlier you book. Not only will you potentially save money, but booking early also increases the choice of staterooms you’ll have. Cruises tend to fill up closer to the sail date, and if you wait to make a reservation you might be left with slim pickings when it comes to your accommodations.

Passengers are required to put down a deposit when booking, but if you book early you’ll be able to pay down the remainder of your balance over time if that floats your boat. And, if you book your next Disney cruise while still onboard your current one, you can save even MORE money too!

So, early is the name of the game when it comes to actually booking your Disney cruise — but does it actually matter when you set sail?

When to Set Sail on Your Disney Cruise

The best time of year to set sail on a Disney cruise entirely depends on your cruise destination! Each region has its own “high season” — the busiest times of the year — and a “shoulder” or “low season.” Booking a cruise during the shoulder or lower seasons can often mean cheaper rates and less crowded destinations. 

For the Bahamas and Caribbean, September is usually the best time as school has just started back up in the U.S. and families are less likely to travel. March, April, and November are the low season for Mediterranean cruises, and the remainder of Europe is best sailed during May and October. If you’re thinking about an Alaskan cruise, May through September are the best months for that. 

Typically, you’ll want to avoid any major holidays or times when kids are out of school. Cruises that take place over weekends are also often busier, so if it fits into your schedule consider booking a trip that primarily takes place over weekdays.

Another fairly obvious but extremely important factor to consider is the weather during your planned sailing dates — this is especially true for the Bahamas and Caribbean, which often see tropical weather systems year after year. Hurricane season runs from June to November, so keep that in mind when deciding what time of year is best for your cruise.

What It’s Like to Live on a Cruise Ship for 6 Months

Disney cruises can be some of the most exciting and relaxing vacations all at once, so keep these tips in mind before you book yours! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for the latest Disney Cruise Line news and more.

Want to learn more about Disney’s newest cruise ship, the Wish? We’ve checked out all the best restaurants on board, taken in some seriously incredible stage shows, and even explored the kids clubs on the ship!

We explored the entire Disney Wish cruise ship — click here to see it all.

Our friends over at Small World Vacations can also help you book your Disney Cruise. Their services are FREE and they will do their best to stay in your budget.

Have you been on a Disney cruise? Let us know in the comments!

The post The Best Times to Book Your Disney Cruise first appeared on the disney food blog.