This is another area where the buyer must beware! When calling 1-407-W-DISNEY two groups answer the phones
CRO = Central Reservations
WDW Travel = WDW Full Service
Travel Agency
In the "olden days" the only group that existed was CRO and all they did was book rooms/sites. As the need for a full service travel agency arose for things like packages, airfare, cruises and the like WDW Travel was created.
Trip cancellation insurance has been a big moneymaker for travel agencies for years, especially in the cruise industry. I would assume that some boss at WDW Travel has decided to try to increase the numbers by selling more insurance.
Now, we do have to remember to compare apples to apples. Most times when WDW Travel quotes an all inclusive price (i.e. trip insurance has been added) they have already added taxes also. Taxes at WDW are a big part of the "add on" price.
When I called last week to book my December trip I was quoted $186.70. I asked f that included taxes, the reply NO. Knowing full well that I was in Value Season ($40 a night) I knew right away I was talking to WDW Travel.
When I questioned the price and who I was talking with the CM state that she was with WDW Travel and it included trip insurance. I asked to be transfered to CRO. CRO then booked the same 4 days for $178.40 + tax.
So the insurance on my 4 nite stay was going to be $8.30
I find it hard to believe there would be an "exorbitant" fee charged as trip insurance is usually priced as a percentage of the total package. If the booking included a cabin, tickets and other "extras", yes the insurance fee could get fairly high.