Ahoy, Leah, and welcome to planDisney! It sounds like you’ll be ringing in the New Year in the most magical way: aboard a Disney Cruise Line vacation! There’s truly nothing like celebrating at sea, and I’m thrilled to help you prepare for your epic adventure.
To answer your question: yes, you can absolutely return to the ship at any time on port days. Just make sure you’re back before the all-aboard time, which will be listed in the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app (and announced before disembarking at each port). You’ll simply scan your Key to the World Card or
DisneyBand+ each time you leave and return, making it easy to enjoy the day your way.
Many Guests love the flexibility to come and go during port days, especially when traveling with kids or a group. Perhaps you book a half-day excursion and then want to return to the ship for a shower and lunch before getting back out there to explore more. Or you might prefer returning early for an afternoon swim while the pools are less crowded at port. The same principle holds true while docked at one of Disney’s Island destinations, too. Gawrsh, I’ve even popped off quick to pick up vanilla extract while docked in Mexico, returned onboard so I could store it in my stateroom, and then disembarked again so my hands were free for more exploring and shopping!
Just keep in mind that embarkation usually needs to be completed about 30 minutes before the ship departs, and the ship runs on “ship time”, which may differ from local time ashore. Be sure to double-check before you disembark so you don’t miss out on any of the special New Year’s magic waiting back onboard.
Leah, I know you’ll have a spectacular holiday celebration at sea that will be the kick-off to a year full of adventures, wonder, and pixie dust! If any more questions pop up as your sailing draws near, you’re always welcome to visit us here again at
planDisney.
Bon voyage,
Sami