Becoming a member of the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a dream come true for many Disney enthusiasts. As a DVC member, you can enjoy regular vacations at Disney resorts around the world, along with various perks and benefits exclusive to members. But how do you become a member? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process, costs, benefits, and insider tips to maximize your DVC membership.
To become a Disney Vacation Club member, you need to purchase a real estate interest in a Disney Vacation Club resort of your choice. This interest is represented by an annual allotment of Vacation Points, which you can use to book stays at DVC resorts. You can buy this membership directly from Disney or through resale from a third-party agency. After purchasing, create a Disney account, link your DVC membership, and start planning your vacations. Remember to pay annual dues based on the number of points owned.
What Is the Disney Vacation Club?
The Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a vacation ownership program or a timeshare, operated by The Walt Disney Co. Unlike traditional timeshares, DVC works on a flexible point system, allowing owners to travel when they want, as often as they want, for however long they want, and in whatever size unit they choose. There are currently 13 DVC resorts, with a 14th resort, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, opening soon.
Steps to Become a Disney Vacation Club Member
Becoming a DVC member involves purchasing a real estate interest in a Disney Vacation Club resort, referred to as your home resort. This real estate interest is represented by an annual allotment of Vacation Points. Here’s how you can become a DVC member:
- Explore the Disney Vacation Club: Visit the DVC website to learn about the membership and its benefits.
- Choose a Home Resort: Select a home resort from the list of participating Disney Vacation Club resorts.
- Purchase a Real Estate Interest: Buy a real estate interest in your chosen home resort. The purchase price starts at $207 per point for the number of Vacation Club Points selected.
- Create a Disney Account: If you don’t already have one, create a Disney account to manage your membership and reservations.
- Link Your DVC Membership: Link your DVC membership to your Disney account to manage your reservations.
- Plan Your Vacations: Use your Vacation Points to book stays at any DVC resort.
- Pay Annual Dues: Pay annual dues based on the number of points owned.
Remember that you can purchase a DVC membership directly from Disney or through resale from a third-party agency.
Benefits and Perks of a Disney Vacation Club Membership
As a DVC member, you’ll enjoy a host of benefits and perks, including:
- Discounts on park tickets and annual passes
- Accommodation at various Disney resorts
- Dining and merchandise discounts
- Special events and experiences
- Access to members-only lounges
- Complimentary parking at select locations
- Flexibility and freedom to choose different resorts
Understanding the Disney Vacation Club Point System
The DVC point system is a flexible program that allows you to use your points for stays at various Disney resorts. Each DVC resort has a points chart that outlines the number of points required for a stay, depending on factors such as the resort, room type, and time of year. Members can bank, borrow, and transfer points within certain restrictions to maximize their vacation options.
Insider Tips for Maximizing Your Disney Vacation Club Membership
To make the most of your DVC membership, consider the following insider tips:
- Book early
- Use points wisely
- Take advantage of member benefits and discounts
- Consider buying resale
- Stay at lower-point resorts during peak seasons
- Utilize member-exclusive lounges
- Explore different resorts
- Take advantage of dining discounts
- Plan your vacations strategically
- Stay informed
By following these tips, you can maximize your DVC membership and enjoy memorable Disney vacations.
Booking a Disney Vacation Club Resort
To book a DVC resort, log in to your Disney Vacation Club account, browse the available resorts and destinations, and follow the booking process on the website. Remember to link your reservation to your My Disney Experience account to access online check-in and other features.
Becoming a Disney Vacation Club member is an investment in unforgettable vacations and magical Disney experiences. By understanding the process, costs, and benefits, you can make an informed decision about whether the DVC membership is right for you. Happy planning!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum number of points I need to purchase to become a Disney Vacation Club member?
The minimum number of points you need to purchase to become a Disney Vacation Club member is 100 points.
Can I use my DVC points at other non-Disney hotels or resorts?
Yes, you can use your DVC points for stays at non-Disney hotels and resorts. The DVC is affiliated with RCI (Resort Condominiums International), allowing members to exchange their points for accommodations at over 4,000 RCI-affiliated resorts worldwide.
Can I sell my DVC membership if I no longer want it?
Yes, you can sell your DVC membership if you no longer want it. You can sell it back to Disney or sell it through a third-party resale broker. Keep in mind that selling your DVC membership will involve certain fees and may not yield the full amount you initially invested.
Is there a cancellation policy for DVC reservations?
Yes, there is a cancellation policy for DVC reservations. The policy varies depending on how far in advance you cancel. For example, if you cancel 30 days or more before your check-in date, you will receive a full refund of your points. If you cancel less than 30 days but more than 1 day before check-in, you will receive your points back, but they will be placed in a holding account and must be used within the current Use Year. If you cancel within 24 hours of your check-in time, you will forfeit your points for that reservation.
Can I add more points to my DVC membership after the initial purchase?
Yes, you can add more points to your DVC membership after the initial purchase. This is known as “adding on”. You can add on directly through Disney or purchase additional points via resale.
