Disney Vacation Club (DVC) has become one of the most popular vacation ownership programs in the world, offering members the flexibility to stay at Disney resorts and partner properties while enjoying a variety of unique benefits. One of the earliest and most iconic DVC resorts is Old Key West, which opened in 1991 as the first DVC property at Walt Disney World Resort. Over the years, its annual dues have played a pivotal role in the financial model of Disney Vacation Club, and understanding the history of these dues provides insight into the resort’s development, maintenance, and long-term sustainability.
The Beginnings of Old Key West and DVC
The concept of Disney Vacation Club was born in the late 1980s, when Disney executives realized that there was a market for timeshare properties at Walt Disney World. After a period of planning and development, Old Key West was selected as the first DVC resort. Its opening in December 1991 marked a new era for Disney fans, offering a way to purchase vacation “points” that could be redeemed for stays at Disney resorts.
When Old Key West first opened, its dues were calculated based on a number of factors, including property maintenance, operating expenses, and other costs related to the upkeep of the resort. Dues are an annual charge that all DVC members pay, and they are assessed based on the number of points a member owns. These dues cover a wide range of expenses such as staffing, housekeeping, utilities, insurance, and other resort-related services.
Rising Costs and the Evolution of Annual Dues
Since the resort’s opening, annual dues at Old Key West have increased steadily, much like they have at other DVC properties. Several factors contribute to these annual increases, the most prominent being inflation, rising operational costs, and the need to maintain and refurbish the property over time.
In the early years, the dues were relatively low compared to current figures. However, as Disney continued to invest in refurbishments and upgrades at Old Key West—such as the renovation of guest rooms, improvements to the resort’s amenities, and increased demand for more staff and services—the dues naturally increased.
The need to maintain the quality of the guest experience at Old Key West, as well as the overall sustainability of the DVC program, led Disney to review and adjust dues on an annual basis. While these increases are often met with some resistance from members, they are seen as necessary for preserving the value of the resort and ensuring the long-term success of the DVC program.
Changes to Dues in the 2000s and Beyond
As Old Key West entered the 2000s, Disney began making significant investments into improving its resorts to keep up with the rising expectations of vacationers. Renovations and the addition of new amenities at Old Key West, such as upgraded pools, new dining options, and expanded recreational offerings, contributed to an increase in dues.
In addition to the physical improvements to the resort, Disney Vacation Club also introduced new member benefits over time, including access to more resorts, theme park perks, and exclusive discounts. These new services required financial investments, which contributed to the rising dues.
Furthermore, in the 2010s and beyond, Disney began to invest in modernizing Old Key West with new technology and upgrades to its infrastructure. These updates, while essential for keeping the resort competitive and appealing to modern travelers, also added to the overall operating costs, which are reflected in the annual dues.
Annual Dues Today: The Balance of Value and Investment
As of today, Old Key West remains one of the most beloved DVC resorts, thanks to its charming theming, spacious accommodations, and relaxing atmosphere. However, annual dues for Old Key West are now considerably higher than when the resort first opened, and members often voice concerns about the annual increases. For some, the rising costs make it more difficult to justify the value of their DVC membership.
Despite these concerns, many members continue to find value in their investment, appreciating the unique benefits of vacationing at Disney resorts. The increased dues are viewed as a necessary component of maintaining high-quality accommodations and services at Old Key West, as well as supporting the broader DVC program.
The history of annual dues at Old Key West offers a snapshot of how Disney Vacation Club has evolved over the decades. As Disney continues to invest in maintaining and enhancing the resort, the dues will likely continue to rise, but the experience of staying at Old Key West remains a key part of the appeal for many DVC members. Ultimately, the balance between the cost of dues and the value of the vacation experience is something that each member must weigh based on their own priorities and preferences.
In the end, the history of dues at Old Key West is a testament to the ongoing evolution of Disney Vacation Club as a whole—a program that aims to provide lasting memories, quality vacations, and a home away from home for its members.
