Welcome aboard, Colette!
Thank you for bringing these important questions to planDisney; I’m happy to help you understand the embarkation and disembarkation timelines to ease your mind. Your itinerary sounds absolutely incredible! I haven’t had the chance to experience a Mediterranean cruise yet but I spoke at length today with a friendly Crew Member on your behalf to get all the details for you.
At online check-in,
you will select a Port Arrival Time (PAT) which is the same process for all
Disney Cruise Line ports. This time will be when you should plan to arrive at the
Port of Barcelona on that exciting day! Rest assured these arrival times begin late morning and have every Guest onboard well before the 3:45pm departure. You’ll have time to explore the ship, have a delicious lunch, and see the exciting
Sail Away deck party! If you wish to swim that afternoon, I suggest packing your swimsuit in your carry-on bag for a quick change before you take a dip. Once your stateroom is available you can start to get settled and in full-on vacation mode before sailing away.
Departure day on a cruise is always a sad occasion, but Disney makes it seamless and easy. You will receive full guidance and timelines the evening before; typically you will have breakfast in the same main dining room as the last evening with a set early time. This gives you the opportunity to say farewell to your amazing dining team and have a hearty meal before traveling. Disney recommends planning flights from Barcelona International Airport after 12:30pm to allow time for disembarking, luggage retrieval, customs, and travel to the airport. Please look for instructions onboard for carrying your luggage off the ship for a quick walk-off option if this best meets your family’s needs and schedule.
Did you know your sailing will be a special
Silver Anniversary at Sea?
Disney Cruise Line just announced more details of these special themed sailings, commemorating 25 years at sea! I’m sailing this summer and am so excited for these unique offerings and celebrations onboard.
I always like to know what to expect when traveling and I hope this information manages expectations and gets you ready for a very special voyage, Colette! Please sail back with any additional questions as you finalize your plans.
Bon voyage,
Amy