Disney Vacation Club

Disney Vacation Club: Understanding DVC Membership

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is Disney's vacation ownership program providing members access to deluxe resort accommodations throughout Disney destinations. Understanding how DVC works helps prospective buyers evaluate whether membership fits their vacation needs.

What Is Disney Vacation Club?

Disney Vacation Club is a points-based timeshare program that began in 1991 with the opening of Old Key West Resort. Members purchase deeded real estate interests that include an annual allocation of vacation points. These points can be redeemed for stays at DVC resorts according to published point charts.

Unlike traditional timeshares that assign specific weeks, DVC's points system provides flexibility in when and where members vacation. Points can be used for various room types, across different resorts, and during any available dates based on point availability.

DVC Resort Locations

DVC operates resorts at Walt Disney World in Florida, Disneyland Resort in California, Aulani Resort in Hawaii, and Vero Beach Resort on Florida's Atlantic coast. The majority of resorts are located at Walt Disney World, providing diverse options for Florida vacationers.

Each resort offers unique theming, amenities, and location advantages. From the Polynesian Village Resort's tropical setting to Beach Club's Epcot walkability, different properties appeal to different vacation preferences.

For instance, Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas in Hawaii, offers a blend of Hawaiian culture and Disney magic, ideal for those looking to experience a tropical getaway. Meanwhile, the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at Disneyland Resort provides a luxurious base for exploring Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.

How Points Work

Members receive an annual allocation of points at the beginning of their use year. These points function as vacation currency, redeemable for accommodations based on published point charts. Different rooms, resorts, and seasons require varying point amounts.

Points can be banked into the following year if not used or borrowed from the upcoming year if additional points are needed. This flexibility allows members to save for larger vacations or access extra points for special occasions.

Additionally, DVC members can typically rent out their points if they are unable to use them, offering an opportunity to recoup some of their investment. This option adds another layer of flexibility for members who may have changes in their vacation plans.

Home Resort Advantage

Each DVC contract is associated with a specific home resort. Members can book at their home resort beginning 11 months before their check-in date. At 7 months, all DVC resorts open to all members equally regardless of home resort.

This two-tier booking system rewards home resort selection while still allowing flexibility to vacation at other properties. Choosing a home resort where you want to vacation most frequently maximizes your booking advantage.

For example, if you love visiting Walt Disney World during the holiday season, selecting a home resort such as the Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa can be beneficial due to its proximity to Magic Kingdom and its festive decorations.

Purchasing DVC

DVC membership can be acquired through direct purchase from Disney or through the resale market from existing members. Direct purchases carry full retail prices but include complete membership benefits. Resale purchases offer significant cost savings but come with certain benefit restrictions.

The choice between direct and resale depends on budget, desired benefits, and vacation priorities. Many buyers find resale provides better overall value despite the limitations on supplementary benefits.

It's important to note that while resale buyers may face restrictions, such as limited access to certain member-exclusive events and discounts, the core benefits of staying at DVC resorts using points remain intact.

Ongoing Costs

Beyond the initial purchase price, DVC members pay annual dues that cover resort maintenance, operations, and property taxes. These dues vary by resort and typically increase annually. Understanding ongoing costs helps buyers evaluate total ownership expenses.

Annual dues are mandatory regardless of whether you use your points. Factor these recurring costs into your decision when considering whether DVC ownership makes financial sense for your situation.

It's advisable for potential buyers to review historical dues increases to better anticipate future financial commitments. Additionally, some members choose to pay their dues monthly, spreading the cost over the year rather than paying a lump sum.

Membership Benefits

DVC members enjoy various benefits including discounts on dining, merchandise, and experiences. Members can access special events, member lounges, and exclusive offerings. Direct purchasers receive full benefits while resale buyers may face restrictions on supplementary perks.

The core benefit for all members is booking deluxe Disney resort accommodations using points. This fundamental value proposition makes DVC attractive to families who vacation at Disney regularly.

Additionally, DVC members can enjoy perks such as access to the Top of the World Lounge at Bay Lake Tower and Moonlight Magic events, which are exclusive after-hours events held at Disney parks.

Is DVC Right for You?

DVC works best for families who visit Disney destinations frequently enough to use their annual points consistently. Members who cannot use their allocation regularly may find the annual dues burdensome relative to value received.

Consider your vacation patterns, budget, and long-term plans when evaluating DVC membership. For the right families, DVC provides excellent vacation value. For others, alternative accommodation options may serve better.

Potential members should also consider the long-term commitment of a DVC contract, which typically lasts several decades. Understanding your future vacation habits and financial situation can help determine if DVC is a suitable investment.