Welcome aboard, Marla! Hooray for your very first cruise with Disney!
As a first time cruiser with Disney, you can begin your
online check-in 75 days prior to sailing, which means it's just about time to do so. Log in as soon as you're able once that 75 day mark arrives. There, you'll be able to complete the check-in and choose some fun extras like Port Adventures and certain
Disney Character greetings. I highly recommend choosing from one of the available specialty character experiences that might be available when you check in online. Those book up quickly. But, there are usually only one or two specialty character greetings like a Frozen Meet and Greet or the Princess Gathering that require advanced reservations. Once you're onboard, there are plenty of opportunities, no ticket required, to meet up with your favorite Disney friends. Each day in your Personal Navigator, (the ship's activity schedule), or on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App, you can view which characters will be out to meet guests. Then, just show up and smile for the camera! No other planning required there!
Disney's fabulous Broadway-style Musicals take place each night in the
Walt Disney Theatre. For those guests who dine during Main Dining, they can enjoy the second show after dinner. Guests with the later dining time can enjoy the first show before dinner. Each show runs twice each night so that all guests can attend. No need to make reservations. I would, however, recommend showing up a little early for the show, as the theatre gets pretty full, and you'll want to pick out the best seats!
Have so much fun getting ready for your adventure on the high seas, Marla!
Marcy