Hi there, Stephanie!
Thanks so much for sending your question to planDisney. I love that you’re looking to maximize the magic by staying at Walt Disney World Resort both before and after your Disney Cruise! Before my family’s most recent sailing, we stayed at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and pairing theme park days with a Disney Cruise truly felt like the best of both magical worlds.
Yes, Guests can absolutely stay at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel before or after their cruise. Just visit the Walt Disney World website to browse the full list of resorts and make your reservation. There are so many great options to choose from!
Resorts at Walt Disney World generally fall into three categories: value, moderate, and deluxe. Value resorts are the most budget-friendly, have cute themes, and typically have a food court. Moderate resorts usually have slightly larger rooms and bathrooms, plus a food court and one Table Service Restaurant. Deluxe resorts often have the largest rooms, more dining options, and water slides.
A few of my personal favorites are Disney’s Pop Century Resort (value), Disney’s Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter (moderate), and Disney’s Riviera Resort (deluxe). Truly, you can’t go wrong with any of them!
Once you’ve booked your resort stay, you can call Disney Cruise Line to arrange transportation to and from Port Canaveral. I always choose Disney Cruise Line transportation because it keeps everything simple, plus we’re often able to enter the check‑in area earlier than Guests using other transportation options.
If you haven’t already, be sure to download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. Before your cruise, you’ll use it to complete your Online Check‑In and book Port Adventures and onboard activities during your booking window. Once on the ship, it becomes your go‑to guide for daily schedules, rotational dining, and even onboard chat.
Stephanie, I hope this helps you plan a smooth and magical adventure. Don't hesitate to stop by planDisney again if you have other questions!
Happy sailing!
Jen