How Does Disney Membership Work?

Members of the Disney Vacation Club will receive an annual or biennial allotment of Vacation Points. These points can be used to book vacations at Disney Vacation Club Resorts, the Disney Collection of resorts, the Disney Cruise Line, or Adventures by Disney. Each unit size, season, and resort has a point value, with that value being higher for weekends, prime season, and larger accommodations. Unlike many timeshares, Disney Vacation Club owners are not limited to a seven night stay or a weekend check in—owners can book as many vacations as they like for any amount of time. Points can be either banked or borrowed to accommodate any vacationing needs. Additionally, Disney is affiliated with the exchange company RCI, which expands the available destinations to over 5,000 resorts worldwide.

What is a Home Resort, and When Can I Reserve?

Although DVC members can access any of the Disney resorts, each ownership is tied to a Home Resort. Owners are permitted to book eleven months in advance at their Home Resort, and they can book up to seven months in advance at any other resort in the Disney Vacation Club network, meaning owners receive priority at their home resorts. Reservations are made on a first come, first serve basis, depending on availability.

What Does a Right To Use Contract Mean for Disney Vacation Club Owners?

Although DVC owners have real estate interest in their Home Resort, memberships are sold on a Right-To-Use basis, meaning that there is an expiration date on the contract. After the contract expires, owners will have to renew their contract. Most Disney properties will expire in 2042, with the exception of Saratoga Springs (2054), Animal Kingdom (2057), and Bay Lake Towers (2060).

What are the Maintenance Fees for Disney Vacation Club?

Maintenance fees are calculated based on the number of points owned and the Home Resort, and are paid annually.