Ahoy there, Barbara!
Welcome aboard planDisney! I can definitely relate to wanting all your ducks in a row—er, Donalds in a row—before Online Check-In opens. If your crew is anything like mine, the earlier the Port Arrival Time, the sooner you can start soaking up that Disney magic (and maybe even grab an ice cream cone from
Eye Scream Treats before lunch)!
At this time, you won’t be able to upload your passport photos or security headshots before your Online Check-In window opens. I know that’s not the news you were hoping for, but the good news is the process is super user-friendly. If there are any issues with the photos or information you provide during check-in, Disney will reach out and let you know if they need a redo faster than you can say “bibbidi bobbidi… whoops!”
Now here’s a little tip from my own enchanted experience: I prefer doing Online Check-In on my computer rather than my phone. I keep all of our family’s passport photos and headshots saved in a special folder right on the desktop so I can easily click, upload, and move right along. It’s kind of like
packing your Goofy hat on top—makes everything quicker and easier!
If you’ve got your sights set on snagging a reservation for the
Royal Gathering—those become available right at the 30-day mark too—timing is key. My wife and I like to divide and conquer at the stroke of midnight: she heads straight for those coveted princess hugs while I dive into check-in mode like Dash from The Incredibles. If you don’t get what you’re hoping for at first, don’t give up! Once you’re onboard and connected to the ship’s Wi-Fi, open up the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to check for any last-minute openings. Sometimes, a little faith, trust, and refresh button magic is all it takes.
I hope this helps you feel ready to set sail smoothly when the countdown hits 30 days! You’re one step closer to hearing that “Welcome Aboard!” and stepping into the magic that only Disney delivers.
Sea ya real soon with a splash of April fun and a boatload of Disney magic,
Dustin