Ahoy, Kirsten! Thanks for sailing back to planDisney with another great question! We love hearing from you.
I know it’s much more fun to think about embarkation day than the end of your cruise, but you’re smart to plan ahead for checking in to your flight home. Disney Cruise Line used to offer an Onboard Airline Check-In service, but that hasn’t been available for several years now, and the Cast Members I’ve spoken with aren’t sure if or when it might return.
Guest Services is always wonderful, and while I've heard of some reports of them being able to help with airline check-in, it seems to be an exception rather than the rule. You can always ask when you're on the ship, but you may also want to
purchase a Wi-Fi package once you’re onboard. You don’t need the big package, just the basic Internet plan is plenty for checking in online, and you can buy it for just one day through the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. If you go this route, Guest Services can definitely help you get set up. One tip I’ve learned the hard way is to turn off background app refresh and push notifications so you don’t use up your data unnecessarily.
If you’re flying Southwest, you might also consider adding EarlyBird Check-In for peace of mind since they’ll automatically assign you a boarding position. Another option is to give your flight details to a trusted friend or family member back on land so they can check you in on your behalf. Just remember to keep an eye on the time changes while sailing so you don’t miss your check-in window.
On the last night of your cruise, you’ll leave your bags outside your stateroom for pickup, and then claim them in the terminal at Port Canaveral before heading to the airport to check them in directly with your airline. The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app will walk you through the entire disembarkation process, and you’ll also find detailed instructions on your stateroom TV. Both are super helpful so you’ll know exactly what to do and when.
I hope this helps make the end of your sailing feel a little less stressful, Kirsten! And since you’ll be aboard the brand-new
Disney Treasure, don’t miss the "Disney The Tale of Moana" stage show. It's amazing!
Sea ya real soon,
Eean