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Walt Disney World Refusing to Take Guests’ Money as Hurricane Idalia Swiftly Approaches

magic kingdom hurricane
Credit: Disney, Canva

It’s no secret that Hurricane Idalia (previously Tropical Storm Idalia) is currently making its way toward the Sunshine State as it travels up the Gulf Coast.

With something as severe as a hurricane traveling toward Central Florida, you may be considering canceling your upcoming plans for visiting Walt Disney World. The good news is that Disney’s hurricane policy makes it hassle-free.

More Info About Disney’s Hurricane Cancellation Policy

sunset and rain epcot

Credit: Jeff Krause, Flickr

READ MORE: What Happens When There is a Hurricane at Disney World?

In 2006, Walt Disney World established a Hurricane Cancellation Policy, making it easier for guests to cancel their plans, including any stays booked at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel.

Typically, the standard cancellation policy gives guests up until five days before their scheduled arrival to cancel without penalty. However, once the National Hurricane Center issues a hurricane warning, the rules change a bit.

How Does Disney’s Hurricane Cancellation Policy Work?

animal kingdom lion, rain, disney rain

Credit: Disney

READ MORE: Deadly Storm Surge Expected as Hurricane Idalia Upgraded to Major Hurricane Status

From Walt Disney World’s official website:

If a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for the Orlando area—or for your place of residence—within 7 days of your scheduled arrival date, you may reschedule or cancel your Walt Disney Travel Company Disney Resort Hotel Package and most room only reservations (booked directly with Disney) without any cancellation or change fees imposed by Disney. If you booked directly with a Travel Agent, please contact the Agent or Tour Operator for assistance. For Guests who booked on disneyworld.com or booked directly by calling Disney, most room-only and vacation packages can be modified, or cancelled online, including changes to travel dates.

There Are Some Restrictions to This Policy…

magic kingdom in the rain

Credit: Brett Kiger, Flickr

READ MORE: Walt Disney World Officially Under Tropical Storm Watch, Potential Hurricane Imminent

Disney is quick to point out that any services or paid products supplied by a third party (as in car rental agencies, travel insurance companies, airlines, non-Disney hotels, etc.) are the guest’s responsibility, and will not be included in this hurricane policy.

It’s worth noting that Disney’s hurricane policy doesn’t apply to “certain special events or dining experiences,” nor does it apply to “sports, youth, or other group or special event rooms or packages,” nor any conventions or business meetings.

the many adventures of winnie the pooh rain scene

Credit: Joe Penniston on Flickr

READ MORE: Multiple Storms Begin Forming as Hurricane Season Ramps Up – Will It Affect Your Disney Vacation?

Currently, any change and/or cancellation fees will be waived for any check-in dates from August 28 through September 4 as Central Florida prepares for Hurricane Idalia’s arrival.

About Isabella Reimer

Isabella Reimer grew up visiting Walt Disney World and relocated to Central Florida to be even closer to The Most Magical Place on Earth. She earned her Bachelor’s from Florida State University, where she studied Creative Writing and Women’s Studies. Her biggest hobby is bonding with the ikran at Avatar Flight of Passage, and her retirement plan includes becoming the 1,000 Happy Haunt of the Haunted Mansion.

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