Your complete operations guide — commissions, benefits, client skills, and the tools of the trade
Everything you need to run your business
The Spellbook is your internal operations reference — the knowledge that makes you a powerful agent. Use it alongside The Wayfinder (your DCL product guide) for a complete toolkit.
Navigate by topic
📞
Key contacts
Disney Diamond line, DCL, Academy numbers
💵
Commissions
How you get paid, timelines, split structure
🪪
CLIA & quotas
Requirements, annual goals, how to qualify
🏰
Disney benefits
Your TA discounts at WDW, DCL, DL, Aulani
🎬
Universal benefits
Free tickets, room rates, requirements
🚢
Cruise benefits
Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival + more
🏨
Hotel benefits
Sandals, Marriott, Hilton, IHG + more
💬
Why use an agent?
The pitch that wins clients — word for word
⭐
Client service
Standards, philosophy, what clients expect
📈
Upselling
How to offer more without being pushy
⚡
Cheat sheet
Critical numbers, deadlines & rules at a glance
🏰
Walt Disney World
Resorts, tickets, Genie+, dining, and how to sell it
🌺
Adventures by Disney & Aulani
What they are, who they're for, how to recommend
🎖️
Military guests
Eligibility, restrictions, booking rules
❓
DTA FAQs
Common booking questions answered
Operations
Key contacts & numbers
Every number you need — bookmark this page
When in doubt, call this number first: Disney Diamond Earmarked Line — 877.939.7672 · www.disneytravelagents.com
Academy Travel internal
Academy Travel Main
academytravelagent.com
Your agent portal for booking & resources
CLIA ID Number
00518840
Use when booking with suppliers. Never share with clients.
Commission questions
Direct all commission questions to Executive Staff. Submit missing commission tickets in ClientEase by the 5th of every month.
Disney contacts
🌟 Disney Diamond Earmarked Line
877.939.7672
www.disneytravelagents.com · When in doubt, call this
Walt Disney Travel Company
877.569.3276 · 800.327.2996
www.disneytravelagents.com
Disney Cruise Line
800.511.1333
www.disneytravelagents.com
Adventures by Disney
877.728.7282
www.disneytravelagents.com
Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
866.443.4763
www.disneytravelagents.com
Disney's Hilton Head & Vero Beach
800.327.2996
www.disneytravelagents.com
Disneyland Paris
800-438-9876
DTA Technical Support
800.848.6413 / Option 3
DisneyTravelAgents.com support
My Disney Experience / MagicBands
407.939.4357
Disney Disability Services
407.560.2547
disability.services@disneyparks.com
Disney Signature Services
407.939.7777
Disney Special Diets
special.diets@disneyworld.com
Disney Fairytale Weddings
321.939.4610
www.disneyweddings.com
Disney VIP Tours
407.560.4033
www.disneytravelagents.com
WDW Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
407.939.7895
WDW Floral and Gifts
407.939.4438
www.disneyfloralandgifts.com
WDW Dining
800.327.2996
WDW Ticket Services
407.566.4985
My Disney Experience
800.848.6413
Universal contacts
Universal Orlando Resort
800.224.3838
www.universalpartnercommunity.com
Loews Hotels — Room Only Hotline
800.232.7827
Important: These phone numbers and email addresses are for travel agents only. They cannot be shared with clients or listed publicly. Your supplier will ask for your CLIA number (00518840) to verify you as a travel consultant affiliated with Academy Travel.
Operations
Booking process & tools
How to book, what to use, and critical workflow tips
Primary booking portal
DisneyTravelAgents.com (DTA)
Use for: All Walt Disney World, Disneyland, DCL, Aulani, Adventures by Disney, and Disney resort bookings
Browser tip: Disney websites work best in an incognito/private window. Avoid opening multiple booking windows simultaneously — it may interrupt your booking experience.
Credentials: Each agent must have their own unique username and password. Never share login credentials with other agents — it can result in an empty cart and lost bookings.
Quotes: Always use the cart page (not the room rates page) when providing quotes to clients — only the cart reflects all taxes, fees, and full pricing.
Modifications: Many modifications can be done online. Go to Retrieve Reservation → Walt Disney World Resort to modify. Not all modifications are available online — changes to dates, party mix, air, ground transport, insurance, or Memory Maker require a phone call.
Within 30 days of arrival: No package modifications can be made online. All changes within 30 days require a phone call to 800-327-2996.
ClientEase — agency CRM
Enter every booking into ClientEase immediately
Enter booked vacations into ClientEase immediately after the deposit is made to secure your commission payment
Commission deadline: 5th of every month for the previous month's completed travel
Missing commission ticket: submit in ClientEase if commission hasn't arrived — but only after confirming the supplier has actually released the payment to the agency
Do not submit a missing commission ticket until you are certain the supplier has released payment. Many suppliers (Mears, ROTW, etc.) pay on 30, 60, 90-day, and even quarterly schedules. Confirm with your Sales Manager first.
Courtesy holds
Holding reservations without a deposit
You can hold a room or package reservation (excluding air) for up to 3 days outside the final payment due date
Within the final payment due date: packages may offer a one-day hold
Package reservations 15–30 days of arrival: may offer a one-day hold
Room-only reservations 15–30 days of arrival: may offer a one-day hold
Operations
Commissions & how you get paid
Commission structure, split, timelines, and payment schedule
Your commission split
Starting at 60% — growing to 90%
Starting split: All new Academy Travel agents start at a 60% commission split — meaning you earn 60% of all commission totals Academy Travel receives on your bookings.
Annual review: Every year, Academy Travel conducts an annual review based on completed revenue from the prior year. Agents can earn up to a 90% split based on performance.
First threshold: $100,000 in completed annual sales (not booked — completed, traveled) moves you from 60% to 70%.
Notification: Lisa Federico personally notifies qualifying agents every February (after January confirms prior year's completed travel). Commission bump takes effect in the New Year's first payroll.
Personal trips count: Commission is earned on personal vacations booked through DTA as well as client bookings.
Example: A WDW vacation booked at $4,000 (pre-tax). Disney pays 10% commission = $400 to Academy Travel. Your 60% cut = $240. At 70% split = $280. At 90% = $360.
When you get paid — by supplier
Commissions are paid each month based on completed travel from the prior month (not booked travel). Commission paid to Academy Travel in April will be in your May payroll.
Supplier
Payment timeline after client checkout
Notes
Walt Disney Travel Company (WDW, DCL, DL, ABD, Aulani)
~5–7 days post check-out
Most reliable and fastest payer. Ticket-only sales may vary.
Universal Orlando (packages via VAX)
~30–35 days post check-out
Room-only via Loews Hotels: ~60+ days
SeaWorld
45–60 days post check-out
ROTW Suppliers
Up to 90 days post check-out
Some pay quarterly. Always confirm with supplier.
Transportation companies
Quarterly
e.g. Mears
ClientEase deadline: 5th of every month. March completed travel must be entered no later than April 5th. Entries after the 5th roll into the following month's payroll.
WDW ticket commission rates
1-day and 2-day WDW ticket sales are non-commissionable — this applies to both ticket-only sales AND tickets within packages.
Ticket length
Base ticket
With Water Park & Sports
With Park Hopper
With Park Hopper Plus
3-Day
8%
8%
8%
8%
4-Day
8%
8%
8%
8%
5-Day
8%
10%
10%
10%
6-Day
8%
10%
10%
10%
7-Day
8%
10%
10%
10%
8–10-Day
8%
10%
10%
10%
Florida Resident tickets: Lower commission rates apply — 3-Day base: 3%, with options: 5–7%. Full commission structure viewable in DTA → Training and Benefits → Commissions.
Credentials
CLIA & annual quotas
Requirements, how to qualify, and what your CLIA card unlocks
What CLIA is
Cruise Lines International Association — your industry credential
CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) is the world's largest cruise industry trade association, founded in 1975, representing 60+ member cruise lines and 13,500 global travel agency members. Your CLIA card is your proof of industry legitimacy — it tells suppliers that you are a credentialed travel professional.
Academy Travel CLIA ID: 00518840 — use when booking with suppliers. Never share with clients or post publicly.
Academy Travel is recognized by CLIA — not IATA. Always clarify this when accessing supplier benefits.
A CLIA Card unlocks: discounted resort stays, discounted theme park tickets, special training opportunities, and TA rates across dozens of suppliers.
You cannot access agent benefits/discounts until you have earned your CLIA card. Not until — only AFTER earning it through meeting the annual sales requirement.
Requirements
Annual trip goal
First year: 6 completed trips
All subsequent years: 10 completed trips annually
What counts: All commissionable reservations — including personal trips. Personal trips count toward your annual sales goal.
What doesn't count: Non-commissionable reservations
CLIA card requirement
$25,000 in completed/commissionable annual sales (NOT booked — completed, traveled)
Based on calendar year (January–December)
Must ALSO have at least one deposited booking for the coming year
Academy Travel will approve your CLIA registration on the back end once requirements are met
Confirm with your Sales Director before applying — the annual CLIA fee is non-refundable if the application is denied.
2026 sales year / 2027 CLIA application
How the timeline works
CLIA eligibility for the 2027 application year is based on 2026 completed commissionable sales
Academy Travel cannot issue CLIA cards for agents who do not have any active/upcoming reservations
Agents cannot travel at a TA discount if they are not actively booking clients for upcoming travel
Commission increases are evaluated annually each January (when confirmed travel from the prior year is reported by suppliers). Qualifying agents are notified personally by Lisa Federico and the bump takes effect in the February payroll.
Agent benefits
Disney agent benefits
WDW, DCL, Disneyland, Aulani, Adventures by Disney — what you get as an Academy Travel agent
Prerequisite for all Disney benefits: You must complete the College of Disney Knowledge course on DisneyTravelAgents.com before accessing any TA benefits. Find it at DTA → Training and Benefits → Available Benefits.
Walt Disney World
Theme park ticket benefit: One (1) discounted theme park ticket with Park Hopper Plus (choose from 2–10 day ticket) OR one (1) complimentary 1-Day Flexible Date WDW Theme Park Ticket with Park Hopper Option
Room rate benefit: Up to 6 Special Travel Agent Appreciation Program Room Rates per agent per year — because Academy Travel is a Diamond Earmarked Agency
Where to book: DisneyTravelAgents.com → Training and Benefits → Available Benefits → Broken Down by Destination
Disney reserves the right to immediately terminate TA Space Available Rates, complimentary and reduced rate tickets, and all other benefits for any Travel Professional and to immediately change benefit policies.
Disneyland
Ticket benefit: One (1) complimentary 1-Day Disneyland Park Hopper
Room rate benefit: Up to 6 Special Travel Agent Appreciation Program Room Rates per agent per year
Where to book: DisneyTravelAgents.com → Training and Benefits → Available Benefits
Disneyland 1-day ticket commission rates: 1-day tickets are Not Available for commission. Multi-day: 2-day (3%), 3-day (4.5%), 4-day (5.5%), 5-day (6.5%). 1-Day Park Hopper all tiers: Not Available. Multi-day Park Hopper: 2-day (3.5%), 3-day (5%), 4-day (6%), 5-day (7%).
Disney Cruise Line
No ticket benefit — N/A for DCL
Room rate benefit: Up to 6 Special Travel Agent Appreciation Program Room Rates per agent per year
Gratuities are pre-paid with TA rates. Air is not included. Transfers may be purchased at retail rates.
Rates are non-commissionable on TA Space Available bookings
TA Space Available bookings follow the standard DCL cancellation fee schedule
Wheelchair-accessible rooms available with TA rates upon request (medical info form requested but not required)
Where to book: DisneyTravelAgents.com → Training and Benefits → Available Benefits
Adventures by Disney & Aulani
Room rate benefit: Up to 6 Special Travel Agent Appreciation Program Room Rates per agent per year (per destination)
No ticket benefit for either destination
Where to book: DisneyTravelAgents.com → Training and Benefits → Available Benefits
Agent benefits
Universal agent benefits
Tickets, room rates, and requirements for Universal Orlando and Hollywood
Prerequisites: Universal Specialist training must be completed (Orlando and Hollywood segments separately). Expired training = denial of ticket benefit. CLIA card required at hotel check-in. All benefits requested via the Universal Partner Community.
Universal Orlando
Ticket benefit: One (1) complimentary 3-Day, 3-Park, Park-to-Park theme park ticket for the registered Travel Advisor. Up to four (4) additional 3-Day, 3-Park, Park-to-Park tickets for family/friends.
Room rate benefit: Travel Agent room rates vary by specific property — found on Universal Partner Community under Partner Perks. No limit on discounted room rates. CLIA card required at check-in to maintain discounted rate.
Where to book: www.universalpartnercommunity.com
Ticket request timing: Submit at least 14 days before travel and no more than 3 months prior.
Universal Hollywood
Ticket benefit: Up to four (4) 50% off discounted one-day theme park tickets
Where to book: www.universalpartnercommunity.com
Agent benefits
Cruise line agent benefits
CLIA required for all cruise line TA rates
Cruise line
Discount
Limit
Requirements
Where to book
Royal Caribbean
Varies — TA rates for select sailings
No limit
CLIA required · minimum 1 paid & sailed booking in last 12 months
www.cruisingpower.com
Celebrity Cruise Line
Varies — TA rates for select sailings
No limit
CLIA required · minimum 1 paid & sailed booking in last 12 months
www.cruisingpower.com
Norwegian Cruise Line
Varies based on training level
1 per year
CLIA required · Must be ROTW to access training
https://norwegiancentral.ncl.com/
MSC Cruise Line
Varies — listed under Trade Incentives
Varies
CLIA required
www.mscbook.com
Carnival Cruise Line
Varies — Interline Rates in TA Portal
No limit
CLIA required
www.goccl.com
Holland America
Varies — TA rates on One Source
2 per year
CLIA required + 4 bookings in prior year
www.onesourcecruises.com
Princess Cruise Line
Varies — TA rates on One Source
1 per 4 agency client bookings in last 365 days · max 50/year
CLIA required + agency booking requirements
www.onesourcecruises.com · TA rate bookings under agency account
Virgin Voyages
Varies
1 cabin per sailing
Must complete first 3 tiers of Seacademy (Violet, Scarlet, Silver)
www.firstmates.com
Agent benefits
Hotel & resort agent benefits
Sandals, Marriott, Hilton, IHG, Legoland — TA rates and how to access them
Property
Discount
Limit
Requirements
Where to book / Notes
Sandals Resorts
20%
1 room per agent
None listed
Contact Interline Desk: 1-800-327-1991 ext. 4007. Provide copy of IATA card. If you have CLIA/ARC card instead of IATA, get approval from local BDM. Note: Sandals uses IATA — contact to confirm your credentials work.
Marriott Brand Hotels
Varies (Famtastic rates)
1 room per property per year for Famtastic rates · 2 rooms per stay for other TA rates
CLIA required · Marriott's Hotel Excellence! Training
50% off up to 4 tickets at admissions window with valid CLIA
4 tickets + 1 hotel stay per year
CLIA required
Hotel stay: https://bookings.travelclick.com/96400?RatePlanId=1742721
ALGV Partners
Varies
Varies
CLIA required
VAX → Offers & Incentives → Advisor Incentives
Remember: You cannot access any of these benefits until you have earned your CLIA card. CLIA card must be presented at check-in for hotel benefits or the discounted rate will be forfeited.
Client skills
Why use a travel agent?
The answer to the million dollar client question — memorize this
"Why should I use a travel agent?" — here's what you tell them
Booking Disney is very complicated for people who don't go often. Travel agents price out packages based on a client's budget, find the right accommodations, book tickets, help arrange park reservations, and explain Genie+ and Lightning Lane — many of which are procedures clients aren't familiar with.
Travel agents offer personal tips and recommendations for daily scheduling, dining, must-dos, and more.
Travel agents help explain DAS (Disability Access Services) if needed, recommend flights, book ground transportation, stroller and ECV rentals, and so much more.
Travel agents wake up early to book dining reservations, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, lightsaber building — they link everything to the client's app and show them how to use it.
Travel agents call in special room requests (connecting rooms, cribs, diaper genies), note special occasions on reservations, and handle every detail so clients don't have to.
Travel agents answer any question a client has before, during, and even after their vacation.
The most important thing to say: "Above all else, there is no additional cost to use a travel agent. So why not?"
Introducing yourself to new prospects
How to announce yourself as a travel agent
Use an email, letter, or postcard to tell your network what you do. Here's a framework:
"I'm writing to let you know I've just completed training to be a Travel Consultant specializing in Disney Destinations and Universal Parks and Resorts. I'm working for Academy Travel, a Diamond Earmarked Agency and the #1 Seller of Walt Disney World Vacations, and can book your next vacation to Walt Disney World, Disneyland California, the Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, Aulani, and Universal Orlando Parks and Resorts! I'd love to help you plan your next magical trip."
Follow up by asking if they'd like to be added to your email list
Send flyers or postcards with vacation specials
Include your social media pages and ask them to follow and share
Client skills
Client service standards
What Academy Travel clients expect — and how to deliver it
What clients expect — the 5 pillars
1. Product knowledge: Outstanding customer service and extensive Disney product knowledge from start to finish. Stay completely up-to-date on the latest attractions, options, and special promotions. Visit Disney Destinations as often as possible.
2. Personal experience: Be up-to-date on all the latest attractions, details, options, and special promotions. Clients trust your firsthand knowledge.
3. Savings: Keep up on the latest discounts and specials. Carefully monitor your client's reservation to ensure you're getting the best price possible. Rebook when discounts become available.
4. Service: Handle every part of a client's vacation planning. As a courtesy, take care of everything from dining reservations to surprise parties at sea. Be prepared to tackle any special request or question.
5. Convenience: Always be just a quick phone call or email away. Creating "relationship magic" with your client is one of your greatest gifts. Once you've helped them create magic, they will return and refer others.
Core philosophy: "Earn your client's trust and encourage client involvement. The best sales agents are those who talk less and listen more. The more involved the client, the more persuasive the sale becomes."
Speaking to your client — the process
How to run a successful client consultation
Greet the client — show genuine interest and assure them you can help
Ask permission to collect data — why are they going? What's special about this trip? Are they celebrating anything?
Listen more than you speak — involve the client by asking questions that uncover their needs and expectations
Shift from data-gathering to solution-providing — match your offer to their specific needs
Never give more than 3 choices — too many options overwhelm clients. Maximum 3 options at a time.
Demonstrate a desire to help even when situations are difficult
Close the sale — ask for the booking
Key questions to always ask: Dates of travel · Number of adults and children · Ages of children at time of travel · Resort/destination preference · Budget range (Value/Moderate/Deluxe) · Preferred flight times · Airport preference · Car rental needed? · Full correct legal spelling of all travelers' names
Client skills
The art of upselling
How to offer more value — and increase your commission — naturally
What upselling is — and isn't
Upselling is offering a better deal, adding to a client's vacation package, and increasing your total commission. It is not pressure or manipulation — it's identifying what will make the guest experience more magical and offering it.
Key insight: Clients cannot ask about what they don't know exists. It is your job as the expert to surface options they haven't considered. They'll thank you for it.
Upselling techniques that work
Add-ons to always mention
Park Hopper option — can they visit more than one park per day?
Dining Plan / specialty restaurants
Room upgrade — view, location, or category
Trip protection / travel insurance
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or Pirates League
Character dining reservations
Concierge level on DCL — worth exploring for milestone trips
Cabana at Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay
How to frame an upsell naturally
"Based on what you've told me..."
"Because you said you wanted [X], I would recommend [Y]."
Show the value of what you're offering — not just the price
Explain the difference between options clearly
Use the client's own words to justify the suggestion
Example: Client says "I want to be close to Magic Kingdom but the view doesn't matter." Upsell: standard Polynesian room → room with a lagoon view or castle view. "This would make the stay as magical as possible given what you told me about loving Magic Kingdom."
The DCL verandah upsell — a real example
When $66 per person changes everything
A family of 5 is quoted a Deluxe Family Oceanview at $4,500. The Deluxe Family Verandah is $4,828 — a difference of $328 total, or just $65.60 per person. Your upsell: "For a group of five people sharing one stateroom, that private balcony becomes a real retreat — morning coffee, an evening glass of wine after the kids are asleep, and a front-row seat watching the ship sail into both private islands. For $66 per person for the whole trip, it's not a luxury — it's practically a necessity."
This is the upsell that sold itself. Always calculate the per-person cost when presenting a price difference — it makes the gap feel much smaller.
Getting started
Booking your first client
The steps, the confidence, and the framework to close your first booking
Before the call — gather what you need
Fill out a Client Request form on academytravelagent.com. Key information to collect:
Dates of travel (check-in/check-out)
Number of adults and children, and ages of children at time of travel
Resort/destination preference
Value, Moderate, or Deluxe budget range
Preferred flight times (morning or evening) and airport preference
Car rental needed?
Correct legal spelling of every traveler's name exactly as it appears on their government-issued photo ID
The offer framework
How to present your recommendation
"Based on what you have told me..."
"Because you said you were looking for a [X] and a [Y], I would recommend [Z]."
Show the value of the offer — not just the price
Customize the offer to their specific needs
Explain the difference between options clearly
Ask: "How does that sound?"
If booking by phone rather than online: Call the Walt Disney Travel Company, Disney Cruise Line, or Adventures by Disney (numbers in the Contacts section). Your supplier will ask for your CLIA number: 00518840.
My Disney Experience App — client setup
What to tell clients after booking WDW
Direct clients to StartYourDisneyExperience.com to set up their account immediately after booking
Only the primary guest (first name on reservation) should link the reservation — using the exact same name spelling as on the confirmation
Only the primary guest sets up children in the Family & Friends section
All payments must go through you as the agent — clients cannot pay a travel agent-booked reservation through the MyDisneyExperience website directly. All payments are processed by you.
Agents are not required to book dining and Lightning Lane for clients — it is done as a courtesy. Encourage clients to use the app to explore and self-book.
Special situations
Military guests
Eligibility, restrictions, what you can and can't book
Critical rules first
To receive Disney benefits directly through Disney, guests must be active-duty or retired military members. Disabled veterans and veteran military members must go through a military installation.
All military members must present a valid military ID at check-in or Will Call. Failure to provide ID = charged rack rate.
You CANNOT ask for a copy of a Military ID. Simply remind clients that it is required at check-in.
Military members can book up to 3 rooms at Disney with a valid Military ID. Only ONE stateroom can be booked aboard Disney Cruise Line (unless immediate family requires more than one room).
Military FAQs
Q: Can I book Shades of Green for my client? A: No. Shades of Green is owned by the Department of Defense. Military guests must book directly with Shades of Green.
Q: Can I sell military tickets to my client? A: No. Eligible military members can buy them on base or through Shades of Green prior to their trip.
Q: How do I book a discounted Disney Resort for Military (or Universal)? A: Call the supplier directly to see what discounts are currently available. Discounted inventory is limited.
Q: When will a military discount become available? A: Discounts are announced at the end of a calendar year for the entire next calendar year. Limited inventory — does not replenish once rooms are sold out.
Q: My client is a veteran, are they eligible? A: Only if retired or 100% medically disabled/discharged. Disney defines eligible service members as active or retired US Military (all branches including National Guard, Reservists, Coast Guard, Space Force, PHS, and NOAA). Spouses of active/retired members also qualify with valid active Military IDs.
Reference
DTA frequently asked questions
Common booking and system questions answered
Q: What browsers work best with DTA? A: Use the latest version of Chrome, Firefox, or Safari. Disney websites often work best in an incognito/private window. Open only one booking window at a time — multiple windows may interrupt your booking. For more info: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/faq/technicalhelp/recommended-browser/
Q: Can I hold a reservation without a deposit? A: Yes — up to 3 days outside the final payment due date for packages not including air. Within the final payment due date, a one-day hold may be available. Package reservations 15–30 days of arrival and room-only reservations may also offer a one-day hold.
Q: Can I share my DTA username and password with other agents? A: No. All users need unique credentials. Sharing may result in an empty cart and a lost reservation.
Q: Can I use the room rates page to quote my client? A: No. Always use the cart page — it includes all taxes, fees, and full pricing. The room rates page does not.
Q: Can I make modifications online? A: Many modifications are available online. After retrieving the reservation, the site will advise what can be modified online. No package modifications can be made online within 30 days of arrival.
Q: What modifications require a phone call? A: Date changes, party mix changes, and modifications to air, ground transportation, insurance, or Memory Maker cannot be done online. Call 800-327-2996.
Q: Can I upgrade a room-only reservation to a package online? A: No. Call 800-327-2996. Alternatively, cancel the room-only (if within policy) and book a new package. Note: not all room-only reservations can be cancelled online.
Q: Can I cancel reservations online? A: Package reservations outside 30 days of arrival can be cancelled online. Room-only reservations can be cancelled online up to the day of check-in (as long as not checked in). Reservations including air, ground transport, or insurance require a phone call.
Q: When will my commission be paid? A: Commission is paid monthly based on completed travel from the prior month. Enter all bookings into ClientEase immediately after deposit and meet the 5th of the month deadline for completed travel.
Q: What types of trips count toward my annual quota? A: All commissionable bookings count — including personal vacations. Annual quota: 6 trips in Year 1, 10 trips every year after. Personal trips also count but your quota cannot be comprised solely of personal vacations.
Quick access
⚡ Quick reference cheat sheet
The most critical numbers, deadlines, rules, and rates — all in one place
📞 Critical phone numbers
Disney Diamond Line: 877.939.7672 ← call this first
Walt Disney Travel Co.: 800.327.2996
Disney Cruise Line: 800.511.1333
DTA Technical Support: 800.848.6413 / Option 3
Universal Orlando: 800.224.3838
Disney Disability Services: 407.560.2547
Disney Special Diets: special.diets@disneyworld.com
Military rates: Active/retired + qualifying spouses
WDW Hotel rate: 20–25% off · book DCL within 7 days of WDW checkout
DVC members: 10% merchandise · 20% spa in port · daily gifts
Travel agent OBC: $50–$1,000 depending on fare · costs client nothing
The two things to do on every single DCL booking: (1) Make sure the client buys the $250 onboard placeholder before they disembark — 10% off their next sailing. (2) Enter the booking in ClientEase immediately after deposit. Miss either one and you lose real money.
Products
Walt Disney World
Resorts, tickets, Genie+, dining, and how to sell the world's most visited theme park destination
Overview — why WDW is your bread and butter
The world's most visited theme park destination
Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida is the flagship Disney destination — 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, Disney Springs shopping and dining, and over 25 resort hotels across 40 square miles. Academy Travel is the #1 Seller of Walt Disney World Vacations. This is your core product.
2 Water Parks: Typhoon Lagoon · Blizzard Beach (check status — closures rotate seasonally)
Disney Springs: Free-entry shopping, dining, and entertainment district
ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
Resort hotels: 25+ on-site hotels in Value, Moderate, and Deluxe tiers
Resort tiers — how to match client to hotel
Value Resorts
Best for: Budget-conscious clients, families where the parks are the priority and the room is just for sleeping.
Art of Animation · Pop Century · All-Star Movies/Sports/Music
Themed, fun, and affordable
No table-service restaurant on-site
Bus transportation only (no monorail/boat)
Moderate Resorts
Best for: Clients wanting more amenities and atmosphere without Deluxe pricing.
Caribbean Beach · Coronado Springs · Port Orleans (French Quarter & Riverside) · Fort Wilderness
Table-service dining on-site
Better pools, more resort theming
Bus transportation (some with boat service)
Deluxe Resorts
Best for: Clients who want the full Disney immersion experience — premium dining, theming, and transportation perks.
Grand Floridian · Polynesian · Contemporary · Wilderness Lodge · Animal Kingdom Lodge · Beach/Yacht Club · BoardWalk · Swan/Dolphin
Multiple dining options on-site
Monorail, boat, or skyliner access to parks
Character dining often on-site
Eligible for WDW hotel discount on DCL
Tickets — what to know before quoting
Date-based pricing: WDW tickets are date-specific — the price varies based on which days are selected. Peak periods (spring break, summer, holidays) cost significantly more than off-peak.
Base ticket: One park per day — guests select which park they're visiting each day in advance. Park reservations required.
Park Hopper option (+$): Allows guests to visit multiple parks in one day after 2pm. Worth it for guests who want flexibility.
Park Hopper Plus option (+$): Adds access to water parks, ESPN Wide World of Sports, mini golf. Best value for families staying 7+ nights.
Ticket length: 1–10 day tickets available. The per-day cost drops significantly on longer tickets — 7-day tickets are dramatically better value than 1-day.
1 and 2-day tickets are non-commissionable — both standalone and within packages.
Always book tickets through DTA or as part of a package — never tell clients to buy directly on the Disney website.
Park Reservations: Guests must make theme park reservations through the My Disney Experience app in addition to purchasing tickets. This is separate from the ticket purchase and must be completed by the guest (or you as a courtesy).
Genie+ and Lightning Lane — how to explain this to clients
Lightning Lane Multi Pass (formerly Genie+): A paid add-on (~$15–$35/person/day, price varies by date and park) that lets guests skip the standby queue at most attractions by booking return times. Can book one at a time, holds up to one active reservation at a time. Book the most popular/desired attraction first thing in the morning.
Lightning Lane Single Pass: Available for the most popular attractions (TRON, Guardians, Tiana's Bayou Adventure, etc.) at an additional per-person charge ($7–$25+). These are the rides with the longest standby waits. Sold separately from Multi Pass.
Standby queue: Free — all attractions have a standby line. Early arrival at park opening ("rope drop") is the free strategy for short waits.
Booking opens: At 7am on the day of visit for resort guests · At park opening for off-site guests
Your job: Explain the system to clients before arrival. Confusion about Genie+ is one of the most common pain points for guests. Walk them through it clearly in your pre-cruise or pre-trip communication.
Simple way to explain it to clients: "Think of it like a virtual line system. You pay a fee to book a return time for an attraction so you can do other things instead of waiting. The most popular rides have a separate higher fee. If you want to do everything without waiting, you'd need both. If budget is a concern, rope drop strategy (arriving at park opening) is the free way to hit the big rides with short waits."
Dining at WDW
Dining reservations open: 60 days before the first day of a resort stay for the length of the stay. Popular restaurants (Be Our Guest, Cinderella's Royal Table, California Grill, Space 220) book out within minutes of opening. Book at exactly 6:00am Eastern on your 60-day window.
Table-service restaurants: Require reservations, typically $35–$75+ per adult. Character dining included here.
Quick-service: Mobile order through My Disney Experience app — guests can order ahead and pick up without waiting in line.
Dining Plan: Pre-paid dining credits (quick-service and table-service credits) included in vacation package. Value varies significantly based on what restaurants are used. Run the math for each client — it doesn't always save money but provides budgeting certainty.
Character dining: Meet characters while eating — guaranteed meets, more relaxed than park character lines. Cinderella's Royal Table (MK), Topolino's Terrace (EPCOT), Hollywood & Vine (HS), Tusker House (AK) are popular options.
Agent courtesy vs. obligation: Booking dining reservations for clients is done as a courtesy — it is not required. However, it is one of the most appreciated things you can do, especially for first-timers who don't know the 60-day booking window exists.
On-site resort benefits — the selling points
When clients ask why they should stay on-site (always more expensive than nearby hotels):
Early Theme Park Entry: On-site guests get 30 minutes early entry to every park every day — huge advantage for rope drop strategy
Free Disney transportation: Buses, monorail, boats, and Disney Skyliner gondola connect all resorts to all parks — no rental car needed
Extended Evening Hours: Deluxe resort guests get 2 extra hours in select parks on select nights (with fewer crowds)
Dining plan eligibility: Only available when staying on-site in a package
Magical moments: Characters sometimes visit resort pools and lobbies
Immersion: The magic starts the moment you arrive — no "leaving Disney" feeling
DCL connection: Stay at a WDW Deluxe resort and book DCL within 7 days of checkout for 20–25% off a DCL sailing — a powerful combo sell
Products
Adventures by Disney & Aulani
Disney's guided tour program and Hawaiian resort — when and how to recommend them
Adventures by Disney
Guided group tours with Disney storytelling — worldwide
Adventures by Disney (ABD) is Disney's guided group tour program — fully escorted, immersive travel experiences to destinations across the world with Disney Adventure Guides leading every trip. Think of it as a Disney cruise on land.
Destinations: Europe (Italy, Greece, France, UK, Norway, Germany), North America (Grand Canyon, Canadian Rockies, Costa Rica, Peru, Galapagos), Asia (Japan, China), Africa (South Africa, Kenya), Australia/NZ, Antarctica, and more.
Format: Small guided groups (typically 40–45 guests maximum). Two Disney Adventure Guides accompany every trip. Everything is pre-planned — transportation, hotels, meals, and exclusive experiences are all included.
What's included: Round-trip flights (on many itineraries), hotel accommodations, most meals, entrance fees to all sites, exclusive Disney-arranged access, and the Adventure Guides throughout.
Duration: Typically 7–10 days depending on the itinerary.
Disney magic woven in: ABD arranges exclusive access guests couldn't get independently — private evening at the Louvre, sunrise at Stonehenge, cooking classes with local chefs, behind-the-scenes experiences.
Who ABD is perfect for: Families who want a stress-free international trip but don't want to plan every detail. Adults who love Disney and want world travel without the logistics burden. Clients who've done WDW and DCL and want the next level of Disney experience.
ABD — selling points and important details
Premium pricing: ABD is a luxury product — itineraries typically run $4,000–$10,000+ per person. Position it accordingly. This is not a budget option.
Ages: Most itineraries have a minimum age requirement (typically 4–7 years old depending on destination). River cruise itineraries are adults-only or have higher age minimums.
Booking: Call 877.728.7282 or book via DTA. Availability can be limited — popular itineraries (Japan, Italy, Norway) often sell out months in advance.
Commission: ABD is commissionable. TA Space Available rates available — 6 room rates per year through DTA benefits program.
River cruises: ABD offers European river cruises (Rhine, Danube) — a hybrid land/water experience. Adults-focused, typically 7–14 nights.
The ABD pitch: "Imagine experiencing Europe or Japan with the same attention to detail and magical storytelling you love about Disney — but now it's the whole trip, not just the parks. Adventures by Disney handles every detail so you just show up and be present."
Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa
Disney's Hawaiian resort — Ko Olina, Oahu
Aulani is Disney's luxury resort on the western shore of Oahu, Hawaii — in the Ko Olina lagoon area, approximately 27 miles from Honolulu. It is a full resort experience with Disney character meets, themed pools, a spa, and Hawaiian cultural programming woven throughout.
Location: Ko Olina, Oahu, Hawaii — a man-made lagoon with calm, protected swimming
Not a theme park: Aulani has no rides or attractions. It is a beach resort with Disney character meets and Disney-quality service and theming.
Character meets: Mickey, Minnie, and various Disney characters appear throughout the resort for photos. Aunty's Beach House (included kids club) offers character experiences.
Pools and water features: Waikolohe Valley water area with multiple pools, a lazy river, water slides, and a snorkeling lagoon with tropical fish.
Aunty's Beach House: Included kids club for ages 3–12. Arts, crafts, Hawaiian cultural activities, and games — similar to DCL kids clubs.
Spa by Mandara: A full luxury spa with Hawaiian-inspired treatments.
Dining: Multiple restaurants on-site including 'AMA'AMA (table-service), Makahiki (character dining buffet), and quick-service options.
DVC villas: Aulani has Disney Vacation Club villa accommodations with full kitchens — popular for longer family stays.
Aulani — selling points and who it's for
Best for: Families who love Disney but want a beach vacation. Couples and adults who want Disney-quality service without theme park crowds. DVC members who want to use points in Hawaii.
Not ideal for: Clients who want the traditional Hawaii experience at Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island — Ko Olina is suburban Oahu, not the dramatic scenery of Maui's Hana Highway or Kauai's Na Pali Coast.
Pricing: Premium resort pricing comparable to other top Hawaii resorts. Ranges from ~$700–$1,500+/night depending on season and room type.
Booking: Call 866.443.4763 or book via DTA.
Commission: Commissionable. TA Space Available: 6 room rates per year.
Best time to visit: Year-round — Hawaii weather is consistent. Shoulder seasons (April–May, September–October) for lower rates. Summer and holidays are peak pricing.
The Aulani pitch: "What if you could take a Hawaiian beach vacation and still have the Disney magic your family loves — character meets, an incredible kids club, Disney-quality service — but with the Pacific Ocean outside your window instead of a theme park? That's Aulani."
ABD vs. Aulani vs. DCL — quick comparison
Product
Best client type
Price range
Duration
Book via
Adventures by Disney
Families/adults wanting guided world travel with Disney storytelling · WDW/DCL veterans ready for next level
$4,000–$10,000+ per person
7–14 days
DTA or 877.728.7282
Aulani
Disney-loving families wanting a beach vacation · DVC members · couples wanting luxury + Disney service
$700–$1,500+/night
Flexible
DTA or 866.443.4763
Disney Cruise Line
Families of all ages · first-timers · Disney fans · anyone wanting all-inclusive Disney magic at sea
$150–$600+/person/night
3–14 nights
DTA or 800.511.1333
Quick access
Commission calculator
Enter booking details to see exactly what you earn
1 and 2-day WDW tickets are non-commissionable — both standalone and within packages.
Booking total
$4,000
Supplier pays agency
$400
You earn
$240
Agency keeps
$160
Commissionable fare$4,000.00
Commission rate (10%)$400.00
Your share (60%)$240.00
You earn$240.00
Disney pays ~5–7 days post checkout. Your commission arrives in the following month payroll. Enter in ClientEase by the 5th.
Annual estimator
Monthly (est.)
$720
Annual (est.)
$8,640
Completed sales
$144,000
Split tier
70%+
At $144,000 in completed annual sales you qualify for at least a 70% split — reviewed every January.
Quick access
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