Are you planning a magical trip to Disney World? If so, you may have heard of the Disney Vacation Club.
This popular timeshare program allows members to enjoy exclusive perks and discounts at Disney resorts around the world. But how much does it actually cost to join the Disney Vacation Club? Let’s break it down.
What is the Disney Vacation Club?
The Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a timeshare program that allows members to own a piece of Disney’s resorts. Members purchase points that can be used to book stays at DVC resorts, as well as other vacation destinations through RCI (Resort Condominiums International).
How Much Does it Cost to Join?
The cost of joining the DVC depends on several factors, including the number of points purchased, the resort selected, and whether you buy directly from Disney or on the resale market.
Direct Purchase from Disney
If you buy directly from Disney, the minimum purchase is 100 points, which costs approximately $19,000. However, prices vary depending on resort and season. For example, a 100-point contract at Animal Kingdom Villas costs around $25,000, while a similar contract at Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa costs around $19,000.
Resale Market
Buying on the resale market can be significantly cheaper than buying directly from Disney. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Resale contracts do not come with certain perks or benefits that direct purchases receive, such as access to certain lounges or discounts on merchandise.
Annual Dues
In addition to the initial purchase price for points, there are also annual dues to consider. These fees cover things like maintenance and upkeep of resort properties and common areas.
Annual dues vary depending on resort and number of points owned. For example, the 2021 annual dues for a 100-point contract at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort are approximately $7,200. By contrast, the annual dues for a 100-point contract at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows are around $8,000.
Is it Worth the Cost?
Whether or not the cost of joining the DVC is worth it depends on your vacation habits and preferences. If you are a frequent visitor to Disney World and other vacation destinations available through RCI, and enjoy staying in deluxe accommodations with exclusive perks, then joining the DVC may be a good investment for you.
However, if you only visit Disney occasionally or prefer to stay in budget-friendly accommodations, then the cost of joining may not be worth it.
The Bottom Line
The cost of joining the Disney Vacation Club varies depending on several factors, including size of contract and resort selected. Annual dues also add to the overall expense. While joining may be beneficial for frequent visitors to Disney World and other destinations available through RCI, those who don’t visit often or prefer budget-friendly accommodations may find it less worthwhile.