Hi Maria -
Thanks so much for visiting the Moms Panel. My family and I love being one of the first to board the Disney Cruise as well during embarkation day. It's really nice to be able to go around the ship with just a few passengers - and get to the pools early, to clock in a few rides on the
AquaDuck without the long lines.
When you do your online check-in, you'll be able to pick your check-in time at Port Canaveral. The earlier you complete your online check in process, the earlier you can get into the queue. If you are sailing on Concierge level, you automatically get into the 1st group allowed to check-in and board. Platinum Castaway Cay members get the same benefit too. Port arrival times are setup this way, for crowd control. At least, the flow of passengers seems quicker and guests don't find themselves waiting too long for their group number to be called. If you end up arriving too early for your check in assignment, you might be asked to wait.
Most of the guests usually start coming on board at around noon. Just in time for the yummy buffet lunch! Remember that your stateroom might not be ready yet - but feel free to check it out anyway. Any checked-in luggage will be delivered later in the afternoon.
I'm sure your family is very excited for their upcoming voyage. Please come back with any other questions you might have. We will gladly help!
Have a magical day!
~Dolly