With Hurricane Ian looking more and more likely to impact Central Florida late this week, many traveling to Walt Disney World are beginning to wonder what they should do ahead of the storm. As a Disney Vacation Club owner, this also brings up many questions: What happens to my points? What if I need to stay an extra day? Etc.
First and foremost, please keep the safety of you and others around you in mind as you make a decision of whether to still embark on your upcoming vacation. For many Florida residents, Hurricane Ian poses a significant threat to their homes and lives, and while you may be trying to get to your vacation, they will be trying to get out of the storm’s way and to a safe location. Walt Disney World is actually a very safe place to be during a storm of this type, and many local residents often decide to book a room on property and ride it out there.
Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World will provide updates as the storm approaches regarding operating status and potential closures. If you have concerns regarding an arriving or departing flight, check with your airline for updates and to review their cancellation policies. If Hurricane Ian impacts the Orlando area, we will likely see a plan similar to Hurricane Irma in 2017. During that storm, both Walt Disney World and Orlando International Airport ceased operations the night prior to the storm’s arrival and were closed for at least two days.
Guests at Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort or Disney’s Vero Beach Resort should be on higher alert as these properties could close completely due to an evacuation.
In the event that the storm does have an effect on your vacation or operations, both Walt Disney World and Disney Vacation Club have a detailed Hurricane Policy in place. Here it is:
As this policy states, and likely the best route towards preserving your points, call Member Services at (800) 800-9800 if you have any concerns about your upcoming vacation plans. Many members over on the DVC Fan Facebook Group have reported Disney being extremely accommodating with re-booking or banking points if your trip is affected by a storm.
If you plan to continue with your vacation plans regardless of the storm, please be sure to heed any warnings that are issued by the National Weather Service or Walt Disney World. Disney cares greatly about your safety as well as the safety of its cast members.
Need to stay a little longer due to the storm? Members have reported that Disney and DVC often have found rooms that can either be booked with points or at a discounted cash rate.
You may end up spending a day or two in your resort, so it is also important to plan for your needs. Utilizing a grocery delivery service or making a quick trip off property before the arrival of the storm can ensure you have everything you need. Staying in a studio accommodation? It may be worthwhile to keep an eye on 1-bedroom availability over the next few days to guarantee yourself a kitchen during the storm.
Have you been at Walt Disney World during a hurricane? If so, we would love for you to share your thoughts and tips in the comments below or over on the DVC Fan Facebook Group. This will help fellow Disney Vacation Club Members make an informed decision during this time. Thanks and stay safe!
