Ahoy there, Jessica!
Thanks for sailing by planDisney with your question. How exciting to have just a few more days before your magical vacation begins!
Port Canaveral is just a hop, skip and a jump away from
Walt Disney World Resort, which makes
Disney Land and Sea vacations a breeze. Booking
Disney Ground Transfers from your Walt Disney World Resort hotel to the port makes for a fairly simple day when you head out for your cruise. When you book Disney transportation, your Port Arrival Time on your departure day will be automatically set for you depending on when your bus is scheduled to arrive at the port.
So, to answer your question, it depends on a few factors. If you have
Castaway Club status or are staying in a Concierge stateroom, which allows you to start your
Online Check-In earlier than other Guests, you may be able to secure an earlier boarding time without Disney Ground Transportation.
Since your cruise departure is within 30 days, I'm assuming you already have your Port Arrival Time and are hoping to arrive at the port earlier, so let's talk bus schedules. You will receive an email about 48 hours prior to your embarkation with complete details about when your bus will arrive (usually around 9:00 a.m.), where to meet the bus, and also instructions about the baggage you plan to check aboard the ship. If your bus arrives at your hotel at 9:00 a.m. and goes directly to the port (meaning it doesn't stop at other resorts to pick up other Guests) you could arrive at the port before boarding begins. However, your bus might stop at other resorts before leaving Walt Disney World for the port, so you may not arrive at the port as early. The good news is, when your bus does arrive, you can begin your port-side check-in.
Jessica, I've traveled from Walt Disney World to Port Canaveral by Disney bus, by private car service, and by driving myself, and there are pros and cons to each of them, but it is nice to have Disney take care of all your arrangements!
While you are thinking about your plans, remember to download the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app now if you haven't already. The app will be your lifeline aboard the ship by providing you with all your plans, entertainment and activity schedules, and so much more once you board right at your fingertips.
I hope this information is helpful, Jessica. Please let us know if you have other questions; we are always happy to help!
Wishing you many magical moments at sea,
Shannon