Disney Cruise Line guests weighing a lower fare against greater booking flexibility may encounter a confusing set of rate codes: GTY, IGT, OGT and VGT. While they sound alike, DCL Fan explains that a standard guarantee booking and Disney’s restricted guarantee rates are not the same type of reservation.
A GTY, or guarantee, booking means Disney guarantees the stateroom category booked or a higher one, while selecting the specific room assignment. It is not necessarily a discounted fare.
IGT, OGT and VGT are restricted guarantee rates for inside, oceanview and verandah staterooms, respectively. They also guarantee that general room type or better and can bring substantial savings, but Disney controls the stateroom location and the bookings carry restrictions.
That distinction can matter for travelers who need a particular room location, dining time or sailing date. It can also complicate plans for families seeking several discounted staterooms, since available inventory may disappear while reservations are being made.
DCL Fan also notes that a cheaper offer appearing after a cruise is booked does not automatically mean canceling and rebooking will save money. Depending on the reservation and promotion, cancellation costs could erase the difference, and guests could lose activities or other reservations already secured. Some promotions may instead be applied to qualifying existing bookings.
Planning Your Trip
Undercover Tourist is an authorized seller of Walt Disney World tickets, often at a discount off gate price.
Another option discussed is a Disney Cruise Line placeholder, which can be purchased while cruising for a future sailing without selecting a ship, itinerary or date at that time. Travelers should review the rules governing how long a placeholder can be used, how many staterooms it can cover and how to attach a travel agent.
There is no single best strategy between booking early and waiting for a discounted rate, according to the discussion. Guests with firm travel dates or specific stateroom needs may approach the decision differently from those able to travel when a restricted guarantee fare becomes available.
