Ahoy, Jessica, and welcome back aboard planDisney! Your trip is just a few more weeks away, and I bet you can practically smell the sea air and feel the sea breeze. Pretty soon, you can let the gentle sounds of ocean waves wash all your cares away. Ahhhhh, you're almost there! But first, let's work through your question about boarding groups.
As I'm sure you're aware,
Disney Cruise Line assigns Port Arrival Times and boarding groups to help stagger the crowds for a smooth check in and boarding process at the terminal. Boarding groups are assigned based on when you're expected to arrive at the port, which is also known as your Port Arrival Time. They do adhere to this process rather closely, so I encourage you to arrive nearest to your assigned time as possible. You can always arrive later, but an early arrival may result in an unpleasant wait outside the terminal.
I totally understand wanting to get photos with your entire traveling party. Please keep in mind that if a party with different boarding group numbers wants to board together, they must board with the latest number. Because you're coming from a Disney resort, I'm guessing you're embarking in
Port Canaveral, which is great because they have a photo area set up in the terminal. If having a photo taken in the terminal is important to you, you have some options. First, your friends can wait until you arrive, and you can go straight to the photo area to have your picture taken. Then, if their boarding group has been called, they can go ahead and board while you wait for yours to be called. If it's important that you all board together as well, they can continue waiting until your group is called, and you can all board together.
If they'd rather not wait, no worries because there will be plenty of photo opportunities throughout your cruise. Each day, there will be multiple backdrops set up for professional photos. Some are even themed to special days like
Pirate Night or formal nights. I recommend checking your
Disney Cruise Line Navigator App once you're on board for locations and times. You can even place a heart by those you're interested in so you'll get a reminder notification 15 minutes in advance. If you find yourself having an abundance of photos taken, consider purchasing a
photo package.
Jessica, I hope this has been helpful to you and that you have a fantastic cruise with your friends. I hope you come home with memories and photos to last a lifetime. Please visit us again with any other planning questions.
Let your dreams guide you!
Melanie