Disney Vacation Club and Marriott Vacation Club are two of the most popular timeshare programs. Understanding their differences helps buyers choose the right fit for their vacation style.
Program Overview
| Feature | DVC | Marriott VC |
|---|---|---|
| Currency | Points | Points/Weeks |
| Locations | ~15 DVC resorts | 70+ worldwide |
| Focus | Disney destinations | Beach/ski/city |
| Resale Market | Strong | Limited value |
| Contract Length | 50 years (deed) | Varies by property |
| Direct Price/Pt | $200-250 | $10-18 |
Location and Experience
DVC is exclusively tied to Disney properties - primarily Walt Disney World, plus Aulani (Hawaii), Vero Beach, Hilton Head, and Disneyland. Every stay is a Disney experience with Disney service.
Marriott offers far more geographic diversity - from Caribbean beaches to Colorado ski resorts to European cities. If you want varied vacation types, Marriott provides more options.
Cost Comparison
| Cost Factor | DVC | Marriott |
|---|---|---|
| Resale purchase (typical) | $100-170/pt | $1-5/pt |
| Annual dues (typical) | $7-10/pt | $1,500-2,500/week |
| Resale value retention | 60-80% of direct | 10-30% of direct |
Resale Considerations
DVC has a notably stronger resale market. Contracts typically sell for 60-80% of direct purchase prices, and buyers receive full booking privileges. Marriott resale contracts, conversely, lose most privileges - making resale ownership significantly less valuable.
Which Is Right for You?
Choose DVC if:
- You want to visit Disney properties regularly
- Resale value matters to you
- You prefer deluxe accommodations at Disney
Choose Marriott if:
- You want variety in vacation destinations
- Beach and ski resorts appeal more than theme parks
- You're buying direct and will use the full program