Ahoy, Sharon!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! We are so happy you sailed by to "sea" us with this excellent question.
Disney Cruise Line does have a check-in policy that requires all members of a party to check-in (check your Port Arrival time for your assigned window) and board the ship at the same time. You can enter the cruise terminal and go through security separately, but once you get in the line to check-in with a Disney Cast Member, all members should be there together. You'll present passports or birth certificates at this time along with photo identification and take a picture before all receiving your "Key to the World" cards, which will serve as your charge card, photo card, cruise ID and room key. (Your card will also list your Assembly Station letter, dining rotation, dining time and table number.) After you complete your check-in, the Disney Cast Member will give your party of five, a boarding card. This will have a number on it, and you'll wait for it to be called before passing it to a Disney Cast Member to head to the gangway. A fun embarkation picture opportunity will be available just before you board. This is the moment when it always feels real to me!
Sharon, I hope your crew can make plans to all arrive around the same time for your upcoming sailing. Boarding normally begins once the ship is cleared for new Guests, which is typically around 11:30 to 11:45 a.m. All aboard is 3:45 p.m.
Thank you again for cruising by the Disney Parks Moms Panel! Have a magical day!
Nancy