You’ve planned your magical vacation to Disney World. The trip has been paid for. Then comes the news of severe weather headed toward Florida just in time for your stay. What happens now? Here is a look at what choices and options guests of Disney properties have if Mother Nature would like to visit at the same time. Does Disney close for bad weather?
First, for any Disney related travel plans, let me encourage you to utilize the service of a travel professional that specializes in Disney Destinations.
Inclement Weather vs. Dangerous Storms
As a general rule, Disney properties do not close for “inclement weather”. Nevertheless, cast member and guest safety is very important. No two storms are the same. Disney monitors the weather. In the end, decisions are made based on the latest reports for safety. Disney parks have closed in the past due to hurricanes. Most recently, Disney World theme parks were closed for approximately 36 hours for Hurricane Ian in September 2022.
Still, while the parks and Disney Springs will close for safety reasons, the resorts will stay open with limits. In the past, Disney has simply requested that guests who have already checked in and are on property shelter in place in their rooms or indoor resort common areas. Also, Disney transportation will be suspended if the weather is severe. The Skyliner resorts and Magic Kingdom resorts will not have access to either the Skyliner or the Monorail during a closure. Additionally, boat transportation will not be available during bad weather and bus service has been suspended for severe weather.
Furthermore, “check-in” could be suspended during the hours of the most severe weather. You may not be able to “begin” your vacation if the storm is in progress.
Although the theme parks and Disney Springs may close, guests on property are not asked to leave. If you are scheduled to arrive during a severe storm, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the impact it will have on your trip.
Will Disney Offer a Refund if They Close the Parks for Weather?
The standing Disney World Cancellation Policy is guests can cancel vacation packages for a full refund up to 30 days before their arrival. From 30 days to 2 days before arrival, guests will get a refund minus cancellation fees. If guests cancel within a 24-hour window of arrival, package costs are non-refundable.
But, in the case of a severe weather, Disney destinations will waive the cancellation fees on most packages/room costs if guests can’t or decide not to travel during the impact of the storm. As of now, Disney has opted to waive cancellation fees for guests arriving October 6 through October 12, 2024, due to the projected Hurricane. Guests can choose to cancel or change their plans without fees.
If the Disney parks close, guests on property may be refunded for unused tickets. But more recently, Disney has opted to extend the tickets so they can be used at a later date with a limited time frame.
Disney Resort Guests On-Property
Disney hotels and cast members often offer both food and entertainment during park closures due to severe weather. The food service locations at the resorts will stay open but hours may be limited.
Also, Mickey, Minnie, and other Disney favorites have been known to visit resorts during closures to help entertain guests. You may also find activities led by cast members to help ease anxiety or boredom but the safety of both guests and cast members will decide what is available.
More Importantly
It’s not just a Disney Park closure that could impact your trip. The airport and other modes of transportation could close or stop operations even if Disney theme parks stay open. Whether you have flights canceled and/or the area is under a state of emergency, your vacation could be unexpectedly upended.
While Disney may offer refunds without cancellation fees, it is very important to know whether your flights/shuttle service has a refund/cancellation policy. Did you buy travel insurance? What does that cover? Also, the same rules may not apply if you are staying at a Disney Good Neighbor Hotel.
This is where a travel advisor is an excellent resource to have for your vacation. Most travel advisors can give you with the necessary information related to travel insurance, cancellation procedures, as well as act as your advocate when travel plans need to be adjusted for Disney trips or any destination.
What You Need to Know Now
Hurricane Milton is predicted to impact the Orlando area this week. Disney has stated they continue to watch the situation. Disney World is now operating normally. For those considering canceling/modifying their trip due to the storm, no fees will apply for trips canceled or modified due to weather for arrivals between October 6 and October 12, 2024. Additionally, a “State of Emergency” has been issued for Orange County which includes Disney World.
If you would like more information on planning a vacation to Disney destinations or Universal Studios properties, you can submit a free no obligation quote request to start planning right away. You can also reach out to DizN Vacations. Their team of experienced travel professionals will help you build the trip perfectly suited for you.
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