Ahoy, Jared!
It’s so exciting to hear you’re just over a month away from setting sail! I’m sure you’re already counting down the days to your Disney cruise, and I’m here to help you navigate all your questions. Let’s break it down into easy steps to make sure your journey starts off with smooth seas.
First, let’s talk about boarding day. Since it sounds like this may be your first Disney cruise, it is important to know that your online check-in will open 30 days before your sail date. I recommend setting an alarm to log in as soon as the clock strikes midnight (Eastern time) on your check-in date to select your Port Arrival Time. This is when you’ll receive your boarding group. Boarding typically begins around 11:30 AM at Port Canaveral, though it can vary depending on the ship and other factors. So, for the smoothest start, many cruisers aim to secure the earliest Port Arrival Time possible.
When you complete your online check-in, be sure to have headshots for everyone in your party, copies of your passports (or birth certificates and photo IDs for U.S. citizens), and a payment method for your onboard account. If you’re part of the Castaway Club, you’ll have first dibs on the best Port Arrival Times, but here’s the magic trick: if you book Disney’s shuttle to the port, you’ll often get an earlier time—even if you don’t have Castaway Club status. Be sure to book the shuttle now, as space is limited!
Now, about your arrival in Orlando. It’s always a good idea to fly in a day early. That gives you a cushion in case of any travel delays. The Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport is partnered with Disney, so you can stay there and easily access Disney’s shuttle to the port the next morning. If you're looking for a bit of Disney magic before your cruise, you may also consider booking a Walt Disney World Resort hotel or one of Disney’s Good Neighbor Hotels.
When it comes to disembarking on the last day, you have two options:
Express Walk-Off: This option lets you take your luggage off the ship yourself. Once the ship has been cleared by Customs, you can head out on your own. This is perfect if you want to get a jumpstart on your travels.
Luggage Assistance: If you prefer to leave your luggage with Disney, place your bags outside your stateroom door by 10:00 PM (or sometimes 10:30 PM, depending on the ship) the night before. Your luggage will be delivered to the terminal for you, and you’ll be able to collect it when you disembark. You'll receive a Disney character luggage tag on the last night of your sailing—this will be your cue to head off the ship once the character is called. It’s kind of like a scavenger hunt, but with a fun Disney twist! Keep an eye on the ship’s TV screens or listen for the announcement to see when your character has been cleared.
If you booked the Disney ground transportation, you’ll head to the Disney shuttle for your ride back to the airport. Cast Members will be there every step of the way, ensuring your departure is just as smooth as your arrival.
With all these details planned out, your cruise is sure to be an unforgettable adventure! I’m wishing you calm seas and lots of magic ahead.
Sea ya real soon with pixie dust and ocean breezes,
Dustin