Welcome aboard, Cassandre! It sounds like you're getting ready to set sail for your very first cruise with
Disney Cruise Line! Let me tell you, you are in for all sorts of magical memories when you head out to sea with Captain Mickey and his crew! I'm excited for your family!
Disney Cruise Line assigns
Port Arrival Times so that guests can arrive throughout the morning at Port Canaveral without huge waits. Once you arrive in that assigned arrival window, you'll check in at the port terminal and receive a boarding number. Around 11:30 or 12, the first group of guests will begin to board the ship, and boarding numbers will be called. The All Aboard Time that you're seeing is the latest time guests can board the ship before it leaves. So, rest assured that arriving at the port around 11:30, you'll be able to check in and have just a short wait until your boarding number is called. There are plenty of seats around the port terminal area, and Mickey and Minnie are known to stop by for photos with guests near the model of the ship in the middle of the terminal. Plus, screens with classic Disney films are scattered throughout the waiting area to keep little ones entertained while they wait.
Before you know it, your number will be called and you'll get to make your way onto the ship in the atrium lobby as the Cast Members announce your family name and applaud your arrival! What a magical way to begin your vacation!
Have fun planning and please let us know if there are any other questions with which we can help before you set sail! We're happy to help, Cassandre!
Marcy