The Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a vacation ownership program, also known as a timeshare, operated by The Walt Disney Company. It’s designed to provide significant savings for guests who frequently stay at Disney’s deluxe tier of resorts.
The Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a vacation ownership program, or timeshare, run by The Walt Disney Company. It provides members with significant savings on stays at Disney’s deluxe resorts. Members purchase Vacation Points to redeem for stays at Disney resorts and other Disney vacations. The club offers flexibility in travel, discounts on dining and merchandise, access to exclusive lounges and events, and more. However, it also comes with certain limitations and costs.
How Does the DVC Membership Work?
Members of DVC purchase Vacation Points, which are redeemed for stays at Disney resorts and other types of Disney vacations. DVC operates on a point system, providing members the flexibility to travel when and as often as they want, for however long they prefer, and in whatever size unit they choose. This flexibility is one of the major attractions of DVC compared to traditional timeshare ownership.
Primary Benefits of DVC Membership
The benefits of DVC membership are plentiful. Members have access to Disney Vacation Club Resorts, enjoy flexibility and freedom with their travels, receive discounts on dining and merchandise, benefit from complimentary parking, attain sports, recreation, and spa discounts, and gain access to members-only lounges and events.
However, it’s worth noting that some benefits, such as access to members-only lounges and discounts on food or merchandise, may not be available to those who purchase DVC memberships through resale.
Disney Vacation Club Resorts and Their Unique Features
DVC offers a variety of resorts, each with unique features and themes. From Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort featuring views of the Magic Kingdom to Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge with its rustic atmosphere, there’s a resort for every taste.
The DVC Point System
DVC points work like a currency for vacations. Members can bank unused points for the following year or borrow points from the next Use Year if they need extra points for a longer trip or larger accommodations. The number of points required for a stay at a DVC resort depends on factors such as travel dates, room size, and resort.
Costs Involved in Becoming a DVC Member
The cost of joining DVC depends on the resort chosen as the home resort and the number of points purchased. Prices start at $207 per point when buying directly from Disney, with a minimum of 150 points required to qualify for all DVC Membership Extras. Members also need to pay annual dues, which begin at $88 per month.
Limitations and Restrictions of DVC Membership
While DVC membership comes with numerous benefits, there are also several limitations and restrictions, especially for those who purchase their membership through resale. These include resale restrictions, limited membership benefits, annual dues, long-term commitment, minimum required stay, home resort booking window limitations, and limitations on point exchanges.
Other Experiences with DVC Points
Yes, DVC points can be used for experiences other than stays at DVC resorts. These include Disney Cruise Line voyages, Adventures by Disney, National Geographic Expeditions, and hotels at international theme parks such as Tokyo Disney Resort.
Considerations Before Joining DVC
Before joining DVC, potential members should consider factors such as larger rooms and amenities, commitment to Disney properties, age and financial considerations, resale restrictions, membership fees, limited exchange options, long-term commitment, and home resort priority.
In conclusion, the Disney Vacation Club offers a flexible vacation ownership program that allows members to enjoy stays at various Disney resorts and other vacation destinations. It can be a good option for those who frequently visit Disney parks and prefer staying at deluxe resorts. However, it’s crucial to weigh the costs and benefits before deciding to join the DVC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sell my DVC membership if I no longer want it?
Yes, you can sell your DVC membership. However, it’s important to note that resale restrictions may apply. For instance, certain membership benefits may not transfer to the new owner when a membership is sold.
Can I use my DVC points at any Disney Resort?
Yes, you can use your DVC points at any DVC Resort, not just your home resort. However, booking windows may vary. Typically, members can book up to 11 months in advance at their home resort and 7 months in advance at other DVC resorts.
Can I convert my DVC points to Disney Rewards Dollars?
No, DVC points cannot be converted into Disney Rewards Dollars. They can only be used for DVC Resort stays and other eligible vacation experiences.
Can I share my DVC membership with family or friends?
Yes, you can share your DVC membership benefits with family or friends. However, the member must make any reservations using DVC points.
Do DVC points expire?
Yes, DVC points expire if not used within a certain timeframe, usually within the Use Year they are allocated. However, members have the option to bank unused points for use in the following year or borrow points from the next Use Year.
