Dream; full boat; sailing in water
  • On Jan 16, 2026
    A from TX Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    What is the typical time (earliest day) pre-cruise to choose dinner and port activities?

    Ahoy, A! Welcome to planDisney and get ready to set sail for adventure on your upcoming Disney cruise.

    Disney Cruise Line offers two different assigned seating times for dinner: early dining, which is usually at 5:45 PM, and late dining, which is usually at 8:15 PM. The exact seating times may vary slightly depending on your itinerary, but you will either be assigned to the early or late option for your entire sailing. If there is still availability for both options, then you should be able to select your preference when first booking your cruise. Alternatively, you can check your seating time online or on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App under “My Reservations” and request to switch based on your preference. The ability to switch your seating time does depend on availability, but you can also indicate that you would like to be added to the waitlist even if you cannot make the switch yourself.

    Advanced reservations for adult-exclusive dining options and Port Adventures will open for you once your cruise balance is paid in full and your personal advance booking window arrives, which is determined by your Castaway Club membership level or status as a concierge guest. If you are a first-time guest, then the advance booking window opens 75 days prior to sail date, but the earliest advance booking window opens 130 days prior to sail date for concierge guests. Activities can be booked at midnight Eastern Time (EST) both online or through the Navigator App when your advance booking window opens, but are also available onboard your ship on the day of your departure. Keep in mind that the specific offerings vary by ship, sailing date, and are always subject to availability, which is why booking as soon as your advance booking window opens is recommended for the most sought after reservations.

    If any other questions come up as you work out the final details for your upcoming cruise, please do not hesitate to come back to planDisney. We are always happy to provide you with answers and recommendations to get the most out of your time aboard Disney Cruise Line. Happy sailing!

    Catherine
thumbnail image for Catherine

Meet the Panelist: Catherine, Virginia

Get ready to set sail for adventure! I’m a wife, mom to one son, and public defender, originally from Richmond, Virginia. As a Platinum Castaway Club member, I have been sailing away, savoring churro Mickey waffles, and successfully completing my Disney trivia character medallion collection aboard the Disney Cruise Line fleet. Now I’m ready to help answer all of your questions as you prepare to embark on your own journeys to where magic meets the sea. Learn More About Catherine

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