If you’re a fan of Disney vacations, you may have heard about the Disney Vacation Club (DVC). The DVC is a timeshare program that allows members to enjoy Disney resorts and other vacation destinations.
But how much does it cost to be a Disney Vacation Club member? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the costs involved in joining the DVC.
Membership Costs
There are two main costs associated with becoming a DVC member: the purchase price of your membership and the annual dues. The purchase price varies based on the number of points you buy and where you buy them from. You can purchase points directly from Disney or on the resale market.
- Direct Purchase: If you buy points directly from Disney, the cost will depend on the resort you choose and how many points you want to buy. As of 2021, prices range from $188 per point at Aulani in Hawaii to $292 per point at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows in Florida.
- Resale Market: Buying points on the resale market can be less expensive than buying directly from Disney.
However, keep in mind that there are restrictions on using resale points for certain perks like cruises and special events. Prices on the resale market vary widely based on factors like resort, use year, and contract expiration date.
In addition to the purchase price, DVC members must pay annual dues. These dues cover things like maintenance and upkeep for DVC resorts. Annual dues vary based on your membership level and resort.
Membership Levels
There are two membership levels in the DVC:
1. Traditional Membership
Traditional Membership is for those who want to own their vacation home for life. Members purchase a deeded real estate interest in a Disney Vacation Club Resort, which guarantees them a certain number of vacation points each year.
2. Disney Collection
Disney Collection Membership is for those who want more flexibility with their vacation choices. Members buy an allotment of vacation points to use at any DVC resort or other participating vacation destinations.
Other Costs to Consider
In addition to the purchase price and annual dues, there are other costs associated with being a DVC member. These may include:
- Special Assessments: In some cases, DVC resorts may require special assessments to cover unexpected or large-scale expenses like renovations or repairs.
- Travel Expenses: While your membership includes your accommodations, you’ll still need to pay for travel expenses like airfare, food, and transportation.
- Add-Ons: Members can add on additional vacation points at any time if they want more flexibility or longer vacations.
The Bottom Line
The cost of being a DVC member varies based on many factors. The initial purchase price can range from tens of thousands of dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars depending on the resort and number of points you buy. Annual dues can add up over time and there may be additional costs like special assessments and travel expenses to consider.
If you’re considering becoming a DVC member, it’s important to do your research and understand all the costs involved before making a decision. With proper planning and budgeting, however, joining the DVC can be a great way to enjoy Disney vacations for years to come.