Ahoy, Jane!
It's always great to see a fellow Marylander here at planDisney! I'm so glad you stopped by as you prepare for your upcoming cruise. Now, let's talk about how to ensure smooth sailing on your embarkation day!
Jane, prior to your sailing, you'll have the opportunity to
complete online check-in. The exact timeframe that this happens will vary based on your
Castaway Club status. If this is your first Disney Cruise Line vacation, you can begin online check-in 30 days before your departure date, while returning cruisers can start the process a few days sooner. During online check-in, you'll upload copies of your
travel documentation, set up your onboard account, and enter pre- and post-cruise travel plans. Additionally, you'll be able to
select your port arrival time. On embarkation day, you'll want to plan to arrive at the port as close to this time as possible to both minimize your wait and ensure you are on the ship before the designated "all-aboard" time.
Before putting the finishing touches on your packing and heading to the port, I recommend taking a peek at the
current list of prohibited and restricted items so that you don't experience any delays with security and luggage screening on embarkation. Like Ariel, I tend to
pack gadgets and gizmos aplenty along with whozits and whatzits galore, so it's important to make sure that everything I pack makes it with me on the ship! You'll also want to make sure that you keep a day bag handy when you arrive at the port. Porters will be available to take any checked luggage that will be delivered to your stateroom later in the day, but you won't have access to those bags for a few hours. Your carry-on bag should include items such as your citizenship and essential travel documents, any necessary medications, and perhaps a bathing suit or change of clothes if you plan on heading right to the pool deck when you board!
I hope this information has been helpful, Jane, and that you enjoy a wonderful cruise in just a few short months! If you have any other questions, please stop by to see us again here at planDisney!
SEA ya real soon!
Kristi