Hi Beth,
Thanks for sailing by planDisney with your great questions! I am all about maximizing the magic on vacation, so let's talk about a
Walt Disney World Resort hotel stay before your Disney Cruise Line voyage!
One of my favorite perks associated with starting my vacation at Walt Disney World Resort is just that – you start at The Most Magical Place on Earth! If you can swing it, I suggest staying a couple of nights in a
Disney Resorts Collection hotel and spending some time in the theme parks. On the morning of your cruise departure, you can use
Disney Cruise Line Ground Transportation to be whisked to Port Canaveral to be greeted by Captain Mickey or Minnie (depending on your ship). It is a seamless transition that can be booked through Disney Cruise Line.
Pick-up times from the resorts to the port vary depending on the number of Guests using the service. If you book your transfer with Disney Cruise Line, you will receive an email 48 hours prior to embarkation with your departure information. In my experience, you should expect to be picked up at your hotel around 9:30 a.m. The arrival time at the port is usually around 11:30 a.m., but this could change, so be on the lookout for the email with your specific details. When you use Disney Cruise Line transportation, your Port Arrival Time will be automatically assigned for you, and you will be allowed to check in for your cruise when you arrive at the port.
Beth, remember to book the ground transportation in advance since space is limited. Currently, the per-person fee is $45 each way, but prices are subject to change. If you decide to book a Land and Sea package, you can
call a Disney Cruise Line agent who will happily arrange everything for you. If you choose to book your stay separately, you can book your ground transportation through the website at the
Ground Transporation link under the Already Booked tab.
Whatever you choose, Beth, you have a fabulous vacation to look forward to! Please let us know if you have other questions as you plan.
Wishing you many magical memories,
Shannon