Ahoy there, Jeff! Welcome to planDisney. Thank you so much for cruising our way with your question.
It's so wonderful that you are so close to your Disney Cruise vacation with friends! There is something so special about sharing the magic onboard with your favorite people. You'll be making awesome memories together in no time.
As far as your embarkation day plans, you may not arrive to board earlier than your reserved Port Arrival Time. Your friends are welcome to arrive at the port at noon to begin check-in. After going through security screening and checking in with an agent at the port to present the necessary documents, they will be assigned a boarding group number. They are welcome to wait in the waiting area at the port until you have also completed the process. As your port arrival times are one hour apart, it is likely they will receive an earlier boarding group number, but they are welcome to wait and board with your later boarding group.
If you prefer to arrive at the port at the same time, your group will need to arrive at the port at the later time of 1:00 p.m. as you will not be admitted earlier than your Port Arrival Time designates. I know that might not have been the information you hoped to hear, but I hope you are better prepared about what to expect for your exciting embarkation day!
If you need some packing inspiration, don't forget to take a peek at the
Packing Checklist on Disney Cruise Line's website. One last important tip: be sure that everyone in your travel party (with a smartphone) has downloaded the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. The app will navigate you to all of the fun activities that are happening throughout the ship. There is even an in-app chat feature to keep you connected during your cruise.
Have a fabulous voyage!
Adrianna