Ahoy, Jami!
Welcome back to planDisney! You and your crew are
gearing up for an epic sailing aboard the Disney Destiny, and I love that you’re thinking through embarkation day logistics ahead of time. My crew and I are doing the exact same thing as we plan for our May
sailing on the Destiny, so let’s both channel our inner Nick Fury and assemble a smooth game plan.
Since you booked ground transportation from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport to Port Everglades but are flying in before embarkation day, the most important thing you can do is keep an eye on your email. A few days before you set sail, Disney will send specific instructions with your assigned meeting time and location at the airport. That email is your official mission briefing. If for some reason you don’t receive it, definitely
give Disney Cruise Line a call so they can point you in the right direction and make sure you’re squared away.
Now, let’s talk about how this typically works, keeping in mind that procedures can change and your email instructions will always trump anything else. If the process remains the same, you’ll head to Terminal 1 and look for the Disney Cruise Line table or podium near baggage claim. You’ll want to arrive by 11:00 AM unless your email gives you a different time. If you arrive earlier, there’s no guarantee you’ll hop on an earlier motorcoach, but sometimes it’s possible if space allows.
As for your Port Arrival Time, here’s where things are a little different for Guests using
Disney ground transfers. When you complete
Online Check-In, you typically will not select your own Port Arrival Time. Instead, Disney automatically assigns one for you, as well as your boarding group.
I hope this helps as you map out your arrival strategy. With a little preparation and those all-important email instructions, you’ll be on your way from runway to gangway without missing a beat. Here’s to a smooth transfer and a heroic start to your voyage.
Sea ya real soon with a little extra warmth, wonder, and Disney magic,
Dustin