Free DDP coming to an end?

[act1980]

I’ve recently read a couple of articles that suggest the free dining may come to an end in the next couple of years. It suggests that the pull of the new Star Wars land will encourage people to visit so perks like free dining wouldn’t be needed to attract more visitors.

I just wondered if anyone had heard anything similar? Surely if they stop it then crowd levels would decrease as I’m sure it would stop a lot of people from visiting.

What are people’s thoughts on this? Would it stop you visiting if the free DDP wasn’t available?

[lilo82]

I've read that same article too. I don't think we would go either if this is the case.

[ely3857]

There’s always rumours about everything at WDW.

If it were true, it wouldn’t bother me but we wouldn’t stay onsite. We have stayed onsite a number of times and do love the Disney bubble. Without free DDP it wouldn’t be financially viable though. However, it would give us the kick up the backside to try other hotels and restaurants were it to happen.

[wozza]

I’d still go but definitely wouldn’t stay on site.

[wozza]

Or eat much on site 😂

[NewtoOrlando]

I'd still go but probably stay offsite the whole time. We couldn't afford to eat in Disney and pay cash for 3 meals a day, would be way too much! Interesting to see how it pans out!

[Noddy22]

To be honest how “free” is the dining plan. Take into account inflated prices on alcohol, tips on a larger bill etc
I’m sure with Disney the costing must be added in somewhere. They’re not exactly known for giving something away for nothing!’ Hopefully there will be reductions elsewhere which may compensate.

[Andybear]

I wouldn't go during that time but not because of no free DDP but because I have absolutely no interest whatsoever in Star Wars Land. I can't imagine what the crowds will be like then so will be staying away whatever happens.

[jnc2345]

The day Disney doesn't have rooms to fill in September is the day I stop going to Disney. There's always going to be some kind of deal for the off-season. It might change in the coming years, who knows, but there's no chance they are all going to disappear.

[duchy]

Originally Posted by Noddy22

To be honest how “free” is the dining plan. Take into account inflated prices on alcohol, tips on a larger bill etc
I’m sure with Disney the costing must be added in somewhere. They’re not exactly known for giving something away for nothing!’ Hopefully there will be reductions elsewhere which may compensate.

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I thought the DDP was to include an alcoholic drink from 2018 ?
As for tips on the free DDP you could use TS credits for QS and avoid tipping although to my mind that's what the $200 voucher is for... to offset tips.
It's clear many people don't get the best value from DDP when you see posts with people left with many credits they need to exchange for candy to bring home though. When I see those posts I often wonder if they'd have got better value on the free nights offers.