Hi there, Jessica! It’s lovely to have you back at planDisney!
Completing your Online Check-In is always such an exciting process because it means that your cruise is almost here! For me, the Online Check-In always makes it seem real, because I’m literally prepping the documents that will allow me to get on board my Disney cruise! I would be happy to answer your question regarding the Online Check-In process and the dates to complete it.
Guests may begin completing their Online Check-In depending on the date listed in their reservation under “Online Check-In” in the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator App or on the Disney Cruise Line website. This date is different for all guests, as it depends on their
Castaway Club Membership status. For
First-Time Cruisers, this will be 30 days before their sail date.
While you don’t have to complete your Online Check-In at midnight, it does open up at midnight Eastern Time on your designated date. In general, the earlier you complete it, the earlier your
Port Arrival Time may be, which is why some guests will choose to stay up to complete it at midnight, just like Cinderella! It’s not necessary to do so, nor does Disney Cruise Line say anywhere that this helps guests have an earlier Port Arrival Time. But like any exciting Disney reservation task, it’s always fun to make it as soon as we’re able to!
Also, if you’re using
Disney Cruise Line Ground Transportation, your Port Arrival Time will be assigned to you by Disney Cruise Line. While not guaranteed, in my experience, it’s usually earlier in the day.
I’d also like to remind you to have the following items ready to go when completing your Online Check-In:
Jessica, I hope that I offered guidance for completing your Online Check-In. I wish you incredible memories ahead during your cruise! Please sail back to planDisney if you have any other questions.
Bon Voyage,
Rana