Ahoy there, Shelley! Your carrier pigeon...or, maybe it's a seagull?...just landed here at planDisney with your message! He also said that the trip from Arkansas was a bit farther than he thought, so he's going to take a few days off...
Ah, your first cruise, how exciting! The first cruise my wife and I took together was on the Disney Dream, and we still talk about it even all these years later!
I'm sure you already can't wait to climb aboard and experience the three-vacations-in-one that make up a Disney Cruise! Even better, by combining your sailing with a pre- AND post-cruise stay at one of the Walt Disney World Resort Collection Hotels, you're basically getting FOUR vacations in one! Now that's what I call a power move, and a planDrew-Approved approach to Disney! You're well on your way to Platinum
Castaway Club status in my book!
You're correct that while making an online reservation, the Disney Cruise Line website only allows you to select Ground Transportation to and from Port Canaveral from Orlando International Airport. Luckily, you've "got friends on the other side," who can help you coordinate transfers both to and from
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter to Port Canaveral! Castaways with resort stays booked can
contact a Disney Cruise Line crew member directly to purchase Ground Transportation! Since you have reservations at Walt Disney World Resort, you've basically created your own
Disney Vacation by Land and Sea...or in your case, Land and Sea...and Land!
Once you've got your transportation handled, you can turn your attention back to your amazing Bahamian itinerary on the Disney Dream - it will be time to book your activities before you know it! Since this is your first cruise, remember your booking window opens 75 days before your embarkation date, so make sure you have made your final payment and are logged-in to the website before then. With an incredible day at
Disney Castaway Cay on the horizon for you and your crewmates, "adventure is out there" just waiting for you to enjoy!
A few bonus planDrew-approved tips for any Disney Dream sailing:
- Want a fun way to get your bearings on the ship? Head to the Midship Detective Agency for an interactive way to see the entire ship, and experience some incredible feats of Disney Cruise Line Imagineering.
- Be sure to read the latest "Know Before You Go" information so you're aware of current policies, procedures and any changes that may affect your cruise. It always helps to be prepared!
- If you haven't already, make sure you and your travel party have download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app! The app puts dinner menus, chat features, the ability to book your next cruise onboard and the cutest dang countdown there ever was right at your fingertips!
Shelley, I'm so thrilled for you and your crew! Thank you for your question, and if you run into any other "nautical speed bumps," I'm just a message away!
Fair winds and following seas,
Andrew