Ahoy, Jenna!
Welcome aboard planDisney! You’re asking the million–Mickey–question that every Guest eventually faces: “When do I really have to leave the ship?” If it were up to me, we’d all stay onboard until Captain Mickey handed us our next cruise itinerary! But since even pixie dust has its limits, let’s chart the best course for your disembarkation morning.
If you plan to use
Disney’s ground transportation, you can go ahead and
call Disney Cruise Line now to reserve your transfer. Whether you’re heading to the airport or making your way to a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, Cast Members can help you book a one-way option that fits your travel plans. Prices vary depending on the port, but one quick call will get you all the details and ensure your crew’s transition from ship to shore goes as smoothly as a
voyage on the Disney Wish. You’ll also receive instructions from Guest Services toward the end of your sailing with details about your meeting location and time for your transfer.
If you’re setting your own course with a taxi or rideshare like Lyft or Uber, timing really depends on your flight or next destination. In general, Disney ships begin debarkation around 7:00 to 7:30 AM, once cleared by local authorities. Guests using Express Walk-Off (those carrying all their luggage themselves) are the first to head ashore. Otherwise, you’ll wait until your assigned character luggage tag is called—when you see your tag color and Disney pal pop up on the ship’s screens, your luggage is waiting in the terminal.
A few important things to note: staterooms must be vacated by 8:00 AM (subject to change) so your Stateroom Host or Hostess can prepare for the next lucky Guests. If you’re on the later dining rotation, your breakfast seating will likely be around 8:15 AM, while early diners usually eat closer to 6:45 AM. If you want that one last Mickey waffle (and who doesn’t?), you’ll want to plan accordingly. Typically, all Guests are asked to disembark by about 9:15 AM, though this can vary slightly.
Once you step off the ship, the process to collect your luggage and clear customs is usually quick and efficient—more “Rapunzel letting down her hair” than “Zootopia DMV.” From there, you’ll be
on your way to your next adventure before you know it.
I hope this helps you plan your disembarkation day with a little more clarity and a true Hakuna Matata spirit—no worries, just smooth sailing!
Sea ya real soon as the tides turn toward thankful hearts and joyful journeys,
Dustin