Welcome to planDisney, Charles! Thanks for sailing to us with your question.
I'm sorry to hear that your preferred port arrival time wasn't available when you checked in for your Disney Cruise. I have been in your shoes before. It's such a wonderful feeling when you step onboard the ship, and I want to experience that feeling as early in the day as possible!
You may change your Port Arrival Time to an earlier time if one is available. As guests change and finalize their plans, an earlier option may pop up, so please check back regularly. You can check for the available times by signing into your reservation on the
Disney Cruise Line Website and selecting the option to Modify Check-In. From there, select Port Arrival Time. You will see your current Port Arrival Time highlighted and any available Port Arrival Times will be listed. I'm sending pixie dust your way with the hopes that an earlier time will become available for you and your sailing crew!
I know it is tempting to arrive early, but you will not be able to access the boarding area if you arrive at the port before your designated time. In my opinion, it is best to spend the time waiting in a hotel lobby or alternate public space, comfortably seated and within proximity to water and snacks than to be turned away. Last month when I sailed out of San Diego, I saw several people standing outside at least an hour before their designated arrival time, and I was grateful that I didn't have to do the same.
It's almost time to sail away, so please remember to download the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app if you haven't already done so. Once you are on the ship, the app will display the daily activity schedule for each day of your voyage, restaurant menus, and more. It's one handy tool to point your compass in the direction of fun and adventure.
Have an amazing Disney Cruise!
Adrianna