Ahoy, Darlene! Welcome to planDisney and aboard
Disney Cruise Line. I opened my
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app just this morning to see the countdown to my June cruise on the
Disney Treasure. It might be months before we start our packing lists, but it is never too soon to start dreaming of all the magic on board!
While it is not my favorite planning topic, preparing for the return home after Mickey says, "See 'ya real soon!" is essential. I'm glad you sailed by with this question about flights after the cruise ends.
Disney Cruise Line
recommends return flights from Orlando International Airport no earlier than 11:15 a.m. The ship is usually cleared by the local authorities around 8 a.m., but I have been onboard when it has been closer to 8:30 a.m. The airport is about 45 miles from Port Canaveral. It's a pretty straight drive, but it can take an hour or more. It's challenging to plan around things that are completely out of your control.
If you want to head to the airport as early as possible, you will need to use the Express Walk-Off. This means you keep your luggage with you rather than setting it outside your stateroom on the last night of your cruise. Express Walk-Off Guests are the first to debark the ship, carrying their bags.
Even though you will be up and out early, you can still grab breakfast in the morning before you depart. Check the Navigator app for dining times. Leaving is hard enough. Caffeine and one last look at the horizon from the ship is highly recommended.
If you have any other questions, please cruise back by
planDisney. We're happy to see you here!
Bon Voyage!
Jana