Ahoy there, Kassandra! It looks like you have a magical sailing you’re preparing for this winter, so I’m glad you stopped by planDisney for some advice.
I always say that our Disney Cruise vacation starts the moment we step onto that magical shuttle. Booking
Ground Transportation through Disney doesn’t guarantee that you will receive an earlier Port Arrival Time. However, in my experience cruising with Disney (and I believe many of my panelist pals would agree), I’ve found that to be true. For example, if you’re staying at the Walt Disney World Resort, you can expect to be picked up at your hotel around 9:30-10:00 AM on embarkation day. With travel to Port Canaveral typically taking about 45-60 minutes, you would likely be able to arrive, check in, and board the ship in time for an early lunch!
You can complete your
Online Check-In in advance, with that timing depending on your
Castaway Club status. Some of my friends wait up until Midnight EST before their check-in window opens to ensure they secure the best possible arrival time, but I prefer the ease and security of knowing my travel plans are taken care of when I book shuttle service directly through Disney.
If you do opt for a pre-cruise hotel stay, you’ll receive an email 48 hours prior to embarkation with everything you need to know for pickup, including what to do with your
luggage. And if you haven’t already looked into
Land and Sea packages, I find it’s the perfect way for my family to experience all the magic of Disney in one trip.
Wishing you smooth sailing and a journey that’s as delightful as the pixie dust that starts it! If any other questions bubble up along the way, I hope you’ll sail back to us here at
planDisney!
Bon voyage,
Sami