Are you planning a trip to a Disney theme park and wondering how to get the best deals on accommodations? You might have come across the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) and wondered if it’s just another timeshare scheme. In this article, we’ll explore what the DVC is and whether it’s worth considering for your next Disney vacation.
What is the Disney Vacation Club?
The Disney Vacation Club is a vacation ownership program that allows members to book accommodations at Disney resorts and other affiliated properties. It was launched in 1991 and has since grown into one of the largest vacation ownership programs in the world, with over 200,000 members.
Is it a Timeshare?
Yes, in a way. The DVC operates on a points-based system, where members purchase points that they can use to book stays at DVC resorts. These points can also be used to exchange for stays at other affiliated properties around the world.
While this may sound like a traditional timeshare, there are some key differences. Firstly, DVC members own deeded real estate interests in their respective resorts, which means they have an actual stake in the property. Secondly, unlike traditional timeshares where owners are limited to specific weeks or seasons, DVC members can choose when they want to travel based on availability and their point balance.
How does it work?
To become a DVC member, you need to purchase a certain number of points from Disney. The cost of these points varies depending on the resort and location but can range from several thousand dollars up to tens of thousands for larger contracts.
Once you’ve purchased your points, you can use them to book stays at any of the available DVC resorts or exchange them for stays at other affiliated properties. The number of points required for each stay depends on factors such as resort type, time of year, and length of stay.
Is it worth it?
Whether the DVC is worth it for you depends on your vacation habits and preferences. If you’re a frequent visitor to Disney parks and plan to stay at one of the DVC resorts, then it can be a cost-effective way to secure accommodations for years to come. However, if you only visit Disney sporadically or prefer to stay at non-Disney properties, then the DVC may not be worth the upfront investment.
Pros
- Access to exclusive DVC resorts
- Flexible booking options
- Potential cost savings over time
- The ability to rent out unused points for extra income
Cons
- High upfront costs for point purchases
- Ongoing maintenance fees and other expenses
- Limited availability at popular resorts and times of year
- The commitment of a long-term contract
The Verdict
Overall, the Disney Vacation Club can be a worthwhile investment for frequent visitors to Disney parks who want flexibility in their vacation planning. However, it’s important to carefully consider the upfront costs and ongoing expenses before making a decision. As with any timeshare or vacation ownership program, do your research and make an informed decision that works best for you.