disney cruise boarding process

Disney Cruise Embarkation and Disembarkation Tips For Port Canaveral

When I was preparing for our first Disney Cruise I was most nervous about the Disney Cruise embarkation and disembarkation procedures. I had never done a cruise before, and the information I found was extremely confusing. Now I realize that the Disney Cruise embarkation and disembarkation procedures are overall very easy, but minor mistakes can turn into big problems. Find out what the Disney Cruise embarkation and disembarkation process is like at Port Canaveral and our tips for making your Disney Cruise embarkation and disembarkation days easy.

Disney Cruise Embarkation Day

The day has finally come for you to set sail on your Disney cruise. Before walking onto your Disney Cruise Line ship at Port Canaveral you must complete several steps.

Check Your Luggage

You cannot carry all of your luggage on board with you on embarkation day. Staterooms, which are your home for the duration of the cruise, are not usually ready until late in the afternoon. If you used Disney Cruise Line transportation, and left your bags properly tagged outside of your Disney World resort room, these bags will magically show up outside your stateroom door.

If you have driven yourself, or taken a car service like Tiffany Towncar, you will need to check your properly tagged luggage. A porter at the port will collect your luggage before you head to the security line.

Please note the porters do not work for Disney Cruise Line, and tipping is customary when you hand off your bags.

Pro tip: Check pricing for private car service to Port Canaveral. Many times using a company like Tiffany Towncar will cost the same as using Disney Cruise Line transportation, but the Tiffany Towncar service is more convenient and pleasant than taking the coach buses. 

Regardless of how you get to the port it is very important that you have all essential items for the day with you. All checked luggage is inaccessible for several hours.

Passports, driver’s licenses, birth certificates, medications, valuables, and other essential items should be packed in your embarkation day bag.

Check this article for Disney Cruise vacation packing tips and what to pack in your embarkation day bag.

Get Pre-Boarding COVID Test

Starting in June 2022 Disney Cruise Line updated their pre-cruise COVID testing requirements . In the US and Canada, vaccinated guests must still take a pre-cruise COVID test, but the specific rules have changed.

Instead of mandating testing be done immediately prior to boarding, Disney now accepts negative results of certain tests taken no more than 2 days before embarkation. These negative results must be uploaded to Safe Passage before midnight the day before embarkation.

All testing for vaccinated guests is now at the guest’s expense. For kids under 5 years old they must still pretest 3 days before the cruise at your expense and once again at the port at no charge.

Port test results can take up to 60 minutes. Plan ahead and make sure to pack snacks, drinks, and entertainment to help pass the time while waiting. For the most up to date information consult the Disney Cruise Line website .

Go Through Security Screening

At Port Canaveral there is U.S. airport style screening to enter the port. All bags go through a screening machine. Every person entering the port also passes through a metal detector. This process generally moves quickly with our usual wait time under 15 minutes.

Check-in For Your Cruise

After security it is time to get in line for Disney Cruise Line check-in. Most of your check-in process is completed online in advance of your trip. Having most forms completed online makes the embarkation day process move quickly.

While you wait, staff will provide you a health questionnaire. Complete this questionnaire prior to reaching the check-in desk. Sometimes pens are scarce so it is helpful to have your own.

Once you reach the check-in desk a cast member will pull up your reservation information. They will then ask to see your driver’s license, passport or other items that can be used in lieu of a passport. Find out more about documentation requirements for Disney Cruise Line here .

The cast member will review your travel health questionnaire and then take a photo of each member of the group to associate with your on-board account. After this check-in is complete, the cast member will give you a Key To The World Card and boarding group number.

It is very important to keep track of your Key To The World card. Your Key To The World Card is needed for almost everything on your Disney Cruise Line vacation.

Wait For Your Boarding Group

The boarding process is more streamlined now with guests arriving at pre-selected arrival times. This means you should be able to board the ship quickly after screening unlike before when you may have a long wait in the terminal before boarding.

Once your boarding group number is called you enter the gangway to board the Disney Cruise Line ship. Photographers with a background screen of a Disney Cruise ship will take your photo on the way through the gangway.

Please note this character experience may be modified or absent right now. If you have a little time until your boarding group is called you can start the fun by meeting Disney characters in the port lobby. Find out more about meeting Disney characters on a cruise here.

Board Your Disney Cruise Ship

As you approach the doors of the Disney Cruise Line ship a cast member will ask your family name. When it is your turn to enter the ship a cast member introduces you and the staff applaud as you finally enter the cruise ship.

You have now completed your Disney Cruise embarkation, but there is more to do on this first day. Grab something to eat, explore the ship, or go for a swim while you wait for your room to be ready. 

Before leaving dock there is a mandatory safety drill everyone must attend. After that it is time for the Sail Away Party and for your vacation fun to begin.

Disney Cruise Disembarkation Day

The process for Disney Cruise disembarkation begins the night before you depart and continues into the morning of disembarkation.

Place Luggage Outside Your Stateroom The Night Before

On the evening of your last night on a Disney Cruise your stateroom attendant will place luggage tags and a special paper detailing the Disney Cruise disembarkation process on your bed.

Disney Cruise disembarkation day can be very chaotic. Embarkation is scattered over a longer time whereas disembarking happens around the same time for everyone. Elevators are crowded, and it can be difficult to carry heavy luggage down many flights of steps.

To avoid the challenge of lugging large suitcases on your Disney Cruise disembarkation day you can choose to use special tags and place bags outside of your stateroom the night before disembarking. Your stateroom attendant will load the luggage, and porters will have it ready to pick up outside the ship.

It is important that you keep everything you need for your last night and the next morning with you. The luggage you leave outside the stateroom will be unavailable until after you disembark the Disney cruise ship.

We usually pack everything except pajamas, clothes and shoes for the next day, medications, toiletries, jewelry, passports or other important documents. Then on Disney Cruise disembarkation day we pack all of our remaining items in a carry-on suitcase and our personal items like a backpack or purse.

Disembarkation Day Breakfast

The Disney Cruise Line disembarkation day starts early. If you had first seating for dinner your scheduled breakfast time is 6:45 am. If you are the second dinner seating then breakfast is usually at 8:00 am.

Both of these times can be rather early. This is especially true when you consider everyone needs to be up, dressed, and fully packed prior to going to breakfast. We have done a sit-down disembarkation day breakfast and also done continental style breakfast in our room for disembarkation day.

Eating something quick in the room and then disembarking the ship while others are at breakfast is much easier. Room service is not available on Disney cruise disembarkation day, so plan ahead. Order complimentary room service the day before your Disney Cruise disembarkation day. We’ve found the best breakfast supplies are fruit, cereal, and milk.

Exiting The Ship

If you have a quick breakfast in your stateroom prior to disembarking your Disney cruise, exiting the ship is likely to be easier. You can time your exit to occur while others are at breakfast. Right after each breakfast group finishes is the worst time to try and exit the ship.

One time when we went to the disembarkation breakfast we had to wait over 20 minutes in line just to exit the ship’s lobby onto the gangway. The line on the gangway took even longer.

Each passenger is scanned out with their Key To The World Card when disembarking a Disney cruise. Many people leave their Key To The World Card in their stateroom and then have difficulty disembarking. Keep your Key To The World Card with you at all times even on Disney cruise disembarkation day.

Pick Up Luggage

Any luggage that you tagged and placed outside of your stateroom the night before will be in a large area waiting to be claimed. Each section of staterooms is assigned a color and character luggage tag. This helps you to find the section where your luggage is stored. There are lots of bags, so don’t be surprised if it takes a couple of minutes to find all of your luggage.

US Customs and Border Protection

After you have collected all of your luggage, you will enter the line for US Customs and Border Protection. An agent will call you forward and ask to see your passport or other accepted documentation. They will confirm your identity and may ask some general questions before allowing you re-entry in the port.

Final Thoughts On Disney Cruise Embarkation and Disembarkation Procedures

Disney Cruise embarkation and disembarkation procedures are easy once you know what to expect. The most important thing on embarkation day is to arrive with a smartly packed embarkation day bag and all required documents for your trip.

Disney cruise disembarkation day can feel hectic if you don’t plan ahead. Leaving non-essential luggage outside of your stateroom the night before and eating a continental breakfast in your room the morning of disembarking alleviates much of the stress.

Remember to bring your Key To The World Card with you when exiting the ship to avoid delays. The Disney Cruise disembarkation process can take a while, so always check with Disney Cruise Line for recommendations before booking flights.

Find more planning resources for your Disney Cruise here.

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How to Check-In for Your Disney Cruise

Updated January 25, 2024.

Online check-in is similar to pre-COVID sailing. You can begin using either the webpage or the app at 12:01 am Eastern Time. Your check-in date is based on your Castaway Club status.

• Pearl – 40 days before sailing
• Platinum – 38 days before sailing
• Gold – 35 days before sailing
• Silver – 33 days before sailing
• First-Time Disney Cruisers – 30 days before sailing

What Do I Need to Check in for My Disney Cruise?

If you haven’t downloaded the app, now is the time to do it; you will use it for most things on board. The biggest recommendation is to gather all your documents and take all your pictures BEFORE you start completing the form s. Have any flight and hotel information handy.

Guest Information

You will need to provide personal details, including address, contact info & emergency contact. You will need to include a clear image of your passport or proof of citizenship.  Also, you will need a photo/selfie of each guest for your onboard account security photo. The photos must be an image file like a jpg or a png. If you are taking your photos with your iPhone, you will need to export your photos as jpg . 

You will need a picture of the photo page of your passport. If you’re using a driver’s license, you will need to have a photo of the front and the back of it .

If DCL doesn’t accept your passport/proof of citizenship or security photo, they will email you to inform you that a new one is required.

Security Photo Tips

This should be a recent colour photo of you facing forward, from the shoulders up, with no filters . Your face should be fully and clearly visible; please remove eyewear that prevents your eyes from being seen and any items on top of your head . There should be no other people or objects included in the photo . We took ours in front of an empty wall.

It may take some time for your online check-in to change from pending to approved. Most are approved a few days before the sailing .

Onboard Account

You will need information on how you plan to pay your stateroom charges. Your credit card or debit card numbers and expiration dates. At this point, it will ask you which members will have charging privileges. If members of your party are paying for their own charges, you can enter their card information. You can not put a dollar limit on charging privileges.

Travelling With Children

Children under 3 years old can be registered for the Nursery if they cruise after October 2022 . If you are sailing before that date, you must sign up for the nursery once you are onboard. You can register kids ages 3-12 for the Oceaneers Club/Lab during check-in. Pre-teens and teens, they will register once you are onboard at the Edge and/or the Vibe.

Travel Plans

You will need information about your plans before & after the cruise. If you are flying in for the cruise, you need your flight details, including Airline, Flight Number, Departure Time, and Arrival Time. Also, you will need your plans to leave the port after the cruise.

PAT (Port Arrival Time)

This is why you are filling out this information at 12:01 am and not waiting until morning. It is your chance to choose your arrival time at the port.

Most people want to spend as much time on the ship as possible and are trying to get the earliest PAT. On our upcoming cruise, the earliest PAT was 10:45. We took Disney Transfers and received boarding group 3 with a PAT of 11:00 – 11:15. The earliest PATs depend on the port you are sailing out of; some ports have guests arrive later than others. Concierge Guests do not need to select a PAT.

Since Covid, they have been much stricter about arriving at your PAT. If you arrive earlier, you will likely be turned away .

Cruise Contract and Boarding Pass

Read & agree to the cruise contract and print or email the contract. You will be given a Boarding Pass with a QR Code when complete. You can add it to your Apple wallet.

You will need it throughout different stages of the boarding process. It is a good idea to have a printed copy if you encounter any technological problems. The QR code will be used to board the ship because you have not yet received your KTTW cards. Keep reading for details.

KTTW (Key to the World) Cards and lanyards will await you at your cabin in your Fish. You will no longer get your card at the desk in the port and use your QR code to board the ship.

Optional Forms

During check-in, you will also find some optional forms. They include authorization to administer an epi-pen , special services form , and authorization for minors travelling without a parent or legal guardian .

Bring your patience; the website can be glitchy, especially when check-in first opens, with many people attempting to check in. If you are using Disney transportation and are not concerned with an early PAT , it might be best to wait and check in later.

Check out the other  menus for the restaurants on the Wish . Keep checking back or sign up for our newsletter for the latest  Disney Cruise News , like  the return of pre-booking character meets , the current  pre-cruise Covid testing ,  Disney Cruise rumours , and the  latest discounts .

This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning, that if you make a purchase through my links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support of this site.

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Ships & Cruises – Frequently Asked Questions

What documents will be required when I check in for my cruise?

• At check-in, all Guests must present valid passports or other acceptable proof of citizenship. 
• All travelers are required to have a valid passport to enter or re-enter the United States by air.
• In addition to a valid passport, many countries require an entry visa based on your nationality. It is each Guest's responsibility to identify and to obtain all the necessary visas before embarking on the cruise. Because requirements may vary, Guests are advised to contact their local consulate or embassy for more information on required travel documentation for all ports of call during the cruise.
• The Guest who booked the cruise must present a copy of the Online Check-In Port Arrival Form at check-in. You can save time during the boarding process by completing this document ahead of time through My Online Check-in .
• When a minor (age 17 and under) travels without a parent or legal guardian, an accompanying adult must present an Authorization For Minor To Travel Without a Parent or Legal Guardian Form, completed and signed by that child's parent or legal guardian.

Passport & Travel Documentation Guidelines

• Under My Reservations you'll find important travel guidelines and regulations relevant to your individual itinerary. However, it is your responsibility to check with your travel agent, government agency, embassy or consulate to ensure that you have all the proper documentation to board the ship and enter each of the countries on your cruise. U.S. travelers can visit the U.S. State Department's travel website or call the U.S. National Passport Information Center at (877) 4USA-PPT [877-487-2778] for more information.

Important International Travel Advisories

• Guests without proper documentation will be denied boarding.
• Travel restrictions for each destination country may vary according to a Guest's citizenship.
• Plan ahead to get your passport(s) early . At Disney Cruise Line, we ask that you provide your passport number prior to the start of your vacation in your Guest Information Form in My Online Check-in . Visit your "Passport and Travel Documentation" page for the information you need to apply for a passport, including how much time is generally required to receive your passport. United States citizens should also visit the U.S. State Department's travel website or call the U.S. National Passport Information Center at (877) 4USA-PPT (487-2778) for more information.
• Make sure your passports aren't expired or about to expire . Many countries require your passport to be valid up to 3 months after the completion of your cruise. Check the passport policies in the countries you plan to visit ahead of time.

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Disney Cruise Embarkation – Tips Tricks and Hacks

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The first day of your Disney cruise is incredibly exciting. Embarkation is one of the best parts of any Disney cruise.

However, a lot of guests are confused as to a number of things that will happen on their first day or embarkation day.

Here we will make sure that you know everything you need to know about your first day, so you can make the maximum use of the time you have onboard!

Your port arrival time is important. Usually, these times range from 11 am until 1.30.

This will determine which Group Boarding Number you get when you arrive at the port.

Concierge Guests always get the earliest possible boarding time, so they will be the first to board. If you are sailing in a Concierge stateroom you will have a Group 1 boarding number.

Many Cruise Ports, including Port Canaveral, have their own Concierge Lounge where you can wait before you board.

Groups 2 and 3 are the ones with the early boarding times on Check-In.

Later boarding times follow in order.

Many guests find Port Arrival Time confusing.

As a general rule do not arrive any more than 15 minutes prior to your port arrival time.

I completely get that you want to just get on the ship and start your magical cruise, but if you arrive early you may not be allowed to enter the port.

This does depend upon which port you are cruising from, but mostly even if you are allowed in the port to check in, you will still have a while to wait.

Disney and other cruise companies stagger port arrival times so that not everyone arrives at once. 

The important thing to understand is that Port Arrival Time is related to your Boarding Number.

Usually, these range from Groups 1 to 30. The later your Port Arrival Time the higher your boarding number will be. So the later you will get on the ship.

So, if you have a later Port Arrival Time and arrive early what this means is that you will be waiting in the terminal building for a while until your number is called.

Or it may even be at certain ports, such as San Diego, that you have to wait outside the terminal.

There is no way to jump the line by arriving early!

The only exception to this is Concierge.

They do not have a Port Arrival Time as they will always be in Groups 1 and 2 for Boarding. 

Disney Cruise Luggage Tags

You will be sent your luggage tags in the mail.

Make sure that they are securely placed on all the bags that you want to check-in.

If you forget to do this or you haven’t received your Disney luggage tags on time, it is fine.

They will have labels at the port for you, but it is much quicker if these are already on your bags and ready to go.

Arriving at the Disney Cruise Port

Always make sure that you arrive in good time at your Disney Cruise port. A cruise does not wait for you – if you are late you could be watching it sail into the distance!

If you are sailing out of Port Canavera l you will go through the security and x-ray machines on the first floor. You will already have given your checked luggage to the porters.

If you have a Disney Cruise Transfer your luggage will already have been checked in for you.

The next time you see your checked luggage will be when it is delivered to your stateroom, which is usually in the early afternoon.

Always make sure that you have important documents and items such as your passport and any medications with you in your carry-on luggage.

Obviously, you will need your required ID items for the check-in desk.

Once you have cleared security in Port Canaveral you will go up to the second level.

You will have your Cruise Documents which shows your port arrival time and boarding number.

Concierge guests have priority. If you have an early check-in time you will have a lower number and be able to board more quickly.

It is essential that you have the correct ID. If you do not, you will not be allowed to board.

Check with your Travel Agent or directly with Disney Cruise Lines for the ID requirements for your cruise.

It does happen that guests are left behind as they have not brought the correct ID with them. Don’t let that be you!

Register with the Disney Kids Clubs

You are able to fill out all the paperwork online for the kid’s clubs for your children aged 3 to 12.

You can also do this online prior to your cruise.

This will include your child’s details, any allergies, who is authorized to pick them up from the club, and a password that they will use.

It doesn’t matter if you haven’t done this prior to boarding, but it does save you some time.

You can do this at the kid’s clubs when you are on board the ship.

However, if you have time you should do it right now. There isn’t much else to do while you wait!

Waiting To Board the Disney Ship

If you arrive early in the morning at Port Canaveral you are likely to be there will a lot of fellow guests waiting to get on board the ship.

Do not arrive earlier than your Port Arrival Time hoping they will let you enter the port building anyway. They won’t.

The ships usually start to board at around 11.30 am. in Port Canaveral.

The boarding process is usually quick.

As soon as your number is called you can get into the line. You will go through the Mickey Ears and begin your walk to the ship.

Your Key To The World will be swiped and you will be welcomed on board.

Should you get a Disney Cruise Embarkation Photo?

Usually in the port, before you embark on your cruise  Minnie Mouse will be there ready for you to have your photograph taken with her. Sometimes Mickey is with her too.

The lines are usually long, but if you know you have the time it’s a nice thing to have. Once you start the boarding process there will be another photo opportunity before you actually get on the ship.

If you want to save time you can skip the line. You will get on the ship slightly early, but miss out on the boarding photo opportunity .

Boarding Your Disney Cruise

The time has finally arrived! You are about to step onto your Disney ship!

A Cast Member at the door will ask you for your family name.

This will be announced over the microphone so that the whole lobby can hear.

You will be welcomed on board to the sound of applause from the assembled Cast Members in the lobby. If this all sounds a bit cheesy to you, then it most definitely is. However, it is a whole lot of fun!

Do You Need to Visit Disney Cruise Guest Services?

When you board you will probably already see a line at Guest Services. Do you need to join it?

You will if you want tickets for special character greetings such as The Royal Gathering.

Also, if you want to check to sign up for other activities such as Wine Tasting , or other special things which are not available online.

You can even put your name down for one of those coveted Castaway Cay Cabanas – it isn’t very likely, but there may be a cancellation and you will get lucky!

Disney Cruise Dining Reservations and Times

If you want to change your dining time or request a certain table now is your chance. 

Look at your Personal Navigator to see where on the ship the dining staff will be stationed to help you with this.

You can also make reservations at Palo and Remy and check to see if there are any Wine Tasting or Mixology Classes still available. 

Disney Cruise Embarkation Lunch

You will definitely never be hungry on a Disney Cruise – the eating starts as soon as you board. The buffet and one of the rotational dining restaurants will both be serving food.

The selection will be larger in the buffet, but it can sometimes be fun to go to the restaurant as it is likely to be less crowded.

Whichever option you choose, there will be plenty of food available.

For a complete guide to Disney Food including lots of pictures Click Here .

A Cast Member will be there to direct you where to go.

They usually direct you to the buffet rather than the restaurant, so ask if you want to dine in a rotational restaurant.

Disney Cruise Embarkation Lunch Menu

If you choose to have the Disney cruise embarkation lunch in one of the restaurants, there is a set menu for you to choose from. 

If you are sailing with Disney Cruise Concierge there is a separate lunch menu which is served in one of the rotational dining restaurants.

You can see much more information here about the Disney Cruise Embarkation Lunch options.

Explore the Disney Ship

This is a great time to start learning your way around and to begin exploring the ship. Cast Members lead tours of the ship which can be really useful for finding out about the major features of your Disney ship.

See your Disney Cruise Navigators to check the time of these tours.

The spa and the kid’s clubs are Open Houses until early evening so that you can take the chance to explore.

Disney Cruise Boarding Check List

• Check-in online
• Get to the port in good time
• Register for the Kids Clubs
• Decide Whether To Do The Picture
• Board Your Disney Cruise!
• Go to Guest Services

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

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Disney Cruise Line Embarkation Day

Embarkation day for your Disney Cruise is an exciting day indeed! The first day of your cruise is sure to be a whirlwind, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. We are here to help you figure it all out. From when to be at port, what you need to check in, and what to do once you’re on the boat. Learn all about Embarkation Day on Disney Cruise Line.

You can watch our full video about what to expect on Embarkation Day on a Disney Cruise here . 

What is Embarkation Day on a Disney Cruise? 

You’re checked in, packed for your cruise , and ready to sail. Embarkation day on a Disney Cruise is just the term for the day you embark! It’s the first day you board the ship. And while you’re excited for your Disney Cruise Vacation, it’s important to remember that there are some things you need to keep with you on Embarkation Day. 

What to carry on the ship for Embarkation Day on a Disney Cruise 

Since your room and luggage are generally not going to be ready until the afternoon, usually between 2-3 p.m., you’ll need a carry-on for your Disney Cruise. This includes things like medications, identification for each person, cruise documents, and maybe a swimsuit. Check out what to pack in your Disney Cruise carry-on here . Keep in mind that if you think you’ll need it before your cruise stateroom is ready, then you should have it in your cruise carry-on bag. 

If you’re excited about decorating your stateroom door as soon as your room is ready, we highly recommend packing your Disney Cruise door magnets in your carryon as well.  And if you are worried about seasickness, plan to pack your SeaBands , Dramamine or Motion Sickness Patches in your carry on as well. Sometimes luggage won’t be delivered until after 4pm, and if you’re preoccupied with all of the Embarkation Day fun, you could be setting sail before having access to your bags. 

What time does the Disney Cruise Ship Leave on Embarkation Day ? 

Disney Cruise Line typically leaves port between 4 and 5 p.m., depending on your itinerary. When you book your Disney Cruise, you’ll be able to see the sailaway time in the itinerary. It is extremely important to make travel plans that allow for some wiggle room, in case there is something to delay you. The ship will not wait if you are late. So if you’re flying in, we always recommend flying in the day before and staying somewhere nearby. We’ve done this before for Disney Cruises leaving from Port Canaveral. simply staying at the Orlando Airport Hotel , the Hyatt Regency, and grabbing Disney Transportation to Port Canaveral made our lives a whole lot easier. Staying at Disney resort is always a fun option too! 

What Time Can I Board the Disney Cruise Ship on Embarkation Day?

Boarding times change depending on which port you are sailing from. But most of the time, you can board as early as 11 a.m. In order to do this though, you’ll need to secure a Port Arrival Time during online check-in . To get this early time slot, you will need to check in right around midnight of your check-in day because the earliest port arrival times go fast. Guests can now choose a port arrival time based on their Castaway Club status .  

• Pearl and Concierge- 40 days prior to sailing
• Platinum- 38 days prior to sailing
• Gold- 35 days prior to sailing
• Silver- 33 days prior to sailing
• All other guests – 30 days prior to sailing

So if you’re a new cruiser or even a Silver level, it’s possible the earliest spots will be gone by the time your check-in opens. Hakuna Matata! Just choose whatever is the earliest by the time your window opens up. 

If you’re not looking for the earliest time, just choose a port arrival time that will work with your traveling party’s schedule for the day. If you arrive too early before your arrival time, you will have to wait to board. Keep in mind, that unless you’re taking the Disney Cruise Line bus, you will be held to your Port Arrival Time. You won’t be allowed to board earlier just because you show up earlier. So plan to arrive at the time that your port arrival is actually set for. Learn more about the Check-In Process for Disney Cruise Line .

Embarkation Day Process for Disney Cruise Line 

Embarkation Day with Disney Cruise Line is an exciting day! Whether it’s your first Disney Cruise or your 10th, I don’t think it ever gets less exciting. But one thing to keep in mind is that it can be a long day. Between traveling to the port, going through security, waiting for your Boarding Group, finding lunch, checking out the ship, and all of the things, it can be a lot. We always recommend having something to do for little ones. I love sending my clients these Disney Play Packs to keep smaller travelers occupied during the waiting periods of Embarkation day.  You can sometimes find them in the dollar spot at Target too!

We recommend keeping some small snacks on hand as well if your Port Arrival Time is a little later. You can bring non-perishable, prepackaged snacks onboard, and having a few in your carry-on is a good idea in case anyone gets hungry waiting to board the ship. 

Arriving at Port on Embarkation Day

When you arrive at Port Canaveral on Embarkation Day, you will either be dropped off by the Disney Cruise Line bus, private transport, or rideshare or park your car in the parking garage. If you arrive via Disney transport, they take care of your luggage for you. If you are being dropped off, there are porters to help you with your luggage. And the same goes for if you park a car at port. 

Once your luggage has been handled, you will see a Cast Member, who will guide you to the correct line based on your port arrival time. Don’t plan to arrive too early, because you will just be standing there waiting until your port arrival group has been called for check-in. This does not apply to concierge guests, who do not have to abide by a certain port arrival time. 

Checking in at Port for Disney Cruise Line 

Once your Port Arrival Time has been called, you can go inside the terminal to check-in. They’ll scan your Port Arrival form, and check your passports, and you’ll be on your way to security and one step closer to boarding the ship. You can also inquire about cruise upgrades at this point as well. 

Going through Security for Disney Cruise Line 

Security at a cruise terminal is much like going through security at the airport. Whatever you’re bringing must fit through the scanner and you’ll have to walk through a metal detector.  You’ll also have to empty out any drinks, so try to finish them before you get to security, or they’ll tell you to empty them. Just like in the TSA lines.  After you’ve cleared security, you can go up the escalator into the terminal and you’re there! For a l ist of prohibited items onboard a Disney Cruise Ship, check here . 

Boarding a Disney Cruise Ship

Once you’ve passed security and are in the terminal, you will either wait for your boarding group number to be called, or head right on in through the Mickey-shaped entrance! You’ll walk the length of the gangways, and then you’re there! There is also a photo opp before you enter the ship, and this is optional.  One line will be for the photo opp, and one line will be board. The photographers will often try to sway you to get a picture, and it is a fun pre-boarding opportunity. But it’s optional. So it’s up to you!

When you get to the entryway, they’ll announce your arrival and then you are free to do what you wish! We always love grabbing lunch first, and if you’re there early enough, you can enjoy whatever sit-down restaurant is open without having to wait. I will say, that if you board after 12:30ish, you’re likely to have to wait to be seated. Cabanas ( on the Disney Magic, Wonder, Fantasy, and Dream) and Marceline Market on the Disney Wish and Treasure) are also open for lunch as well, so you don’t have to eat at a sit-down restaurant. And really, you don’t have to eat at all!

Some people like to head straight to the pool before it gets busy. And that’s the best part about embarkation day. Being able to do whatever you want once you’re onboard! Whatever you choose, learn more about your Disney Cruise Ship and Restaurants and activities onboard on our Disney Cruise Guide page.

Safety Drill on Embarkation Day 

The only thing you absolutely must do on Embarkation Day is the Muster Drill. This is a mandatory safety drill. During the earlier days of the reopening of Disney Cruise Line, this was on the Disney Navigator app. But now, it’s back to being held in person. You can find out when and where your Muster Drill will be held on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App. So be sure to check that and make sure you attend. If you don’t, they will find you and make you do it before the ship sets sail. It’s mandatory for everyone, so make sure you show up! 

Get your Key to The World Cards

Another process that may change is how you receive your Key To The World Cards. The KTTW card is basically everything you need onboard. Your payment, your room key, it’s all there. These used to be given at check-in. And now they are instead placed outside of your stateroom for you to collect them. 

Sailing away on Embarkation Day

You’ve gotten through the arrival process, had something to eat, completed your muster drill, and likely checked out your room, it’s probably time to sail away! The Sail Away Party varies from ship to ship, but it’s a super fun little party that takes place on the top deck, near the pool and Funnel Vision.  It’s about 15 minutes, and the time it takes place will be in your Disney Cruise Navigator.  And after that, the ship is all yours! Check out the activities, the Broadway shows, your dinner rotation, and the layout of the ship, and enjoy your vacation!

Some people prefer to skip the Sail Away Party. And that’s ok too! Once you’ve completed the Muster Drill, you are welcome to do what you like!

What is the earliest you can board a Disney Cruise?

This completely depends on what port you’re sailing from. But usually, Port Arrival Times start between 11am-11:30am. Guests with the earliest boarding times usually start getting called to board around 30 minutes after the earliest Port Arrival Times. 

Can I arrive earlier than my Port Arrival Time on Embarkation Day for Disney Cruise Line?

Generally, no. Well, I take that back. You can arrive early, however, you’ll just have to stand in line outside to wait for your Port Arrival Time, so there’s really no point in doing that. If you’re taking the Disney Cruise Line bus from your Disney Resort or Orlando International Airport, you’re exempt from this rule. Disney Cruise Line Bus guests get to arrive whenever the bus drops them off. Concierge guests and Disney Cruise Line Bus guests are the only ones not held to their Port Arrival Times. This is why it’s important to choose a time that works for you. 

Some people think arriving early will get them a better boarding group. This is not the case! They will make you wait. So just show up at your Port Arrival Time and you’ll be good. 

What if I’m late for my Port Arrival Time?

Generally, if you’re late, they will check you in when you arrive. However, this all depends on whether or not they can take you at that moment. So if you’re late, you may need to wait until they are ready for you. Again, this is why it’s important to choose a time that works for you when you do your online check-in. Things happen, and we get that. So does Disney! But be realistic about what time you can be at the Port and stick with that. 

And we never, ever recommend flying in the day of your cruise. Especially in today’s new normal of flights being delayed and canceled. The ship will generally not wait for you if you’re late. On all of the Disney Cruises I’ve been on, I’ve only seen one instance where the ship waited. And that was a special circumstance. 

Hopefully, this guide has helped you learn all about embarkation day with Disney Cruise Line. It’s an easy process, just be prepared! If you’re a Disney Cruise Line newbie, check out our Disney Cruise Line tips for beginners ! This will give you a lot of helpful information to make the most of your cruise. Happy Sailing and Bon Voyage! 

Melanie Renee

Melanie Renee is a photographer, writer, designer and mom. Visiting Disney destinations since 2010, she is also an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. When she's not creating her next coffee recipe, or designing apparel at Polka Dot Pixie Shop, she's seeking beautiful sunsets and planning her next trip .

• Melanie Renee https://www.polkadotsandpixiedust.com/author/melanniee/ 11-night Disney Cruise to Northern Europe on the Disney Dream
• Melanie Renee https://www.polkadotsandpixiedust.com/author/melanniee/ Meridian Lounge on Disney Cruise Line
• Melanie Renee https://www.polkadotsandpixiedust.com/author/melanniee/ Disney Yacht Club vs Beach Club - what's the difference?
• Melanie Renee https://www.polkadotsandpixiedust.com/author/melanniee/ Dahlia Lounge at Coronado Springs

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Disney Cruise Advice: Tips & Tricks Onboard the Ship

LAST UPDATE: 2/14/24

On this page we have collected some useful Disney Cruise advice, tips, and tricks that can help you save time and have more fun while you are on a Disney Cruise. Read the advice below and you’ll have a much better idea what to expect, even if you’ve never been on a cruise before!

Thanks to Marjorie Treger and to MouseSavers.com readers Jeff Evernham and Aileen B, who contributed some great tips.

Disney Cruise Advice & Important Things to Know

Embarkation, first-day bag packing list, staterooms and what’s in them, knowing what’s going on & planning your day, oceaneer club and oceaneer lab, edge and vibe, port days/shore excursions, useful things to pack, things you don’t need to (or should not) pack, disney cruise wear, phone and internet.

• Spa: Treatments, Products & Fitness Center

Disembarkation

Additional tips & tricks, trip reports.

Other useful Disney Cruise information pages:

• For discounts and tips on saving money on the cruise itself , visit our Disney Cruise Discount page.
• For tips and tricks that will help you plan your cruise , visit the Planning Tips & Tricks for Disney Cruises page.
• For advice that will help you with excursions, tours and activities  while in port, visit the Tips & Discounts for Port Excursions page.

“Embarkation” means getting on the ship for the first time during your cruise; “disembarkation” or “debarkation” means getting off the ship at the end of your cruise.

“Port” is the left side of the ship as you face forward; “starboard” is the right side as you face forward. “Forward” is obvious; “aft” is the rear of the ship.

Cruise lines are required to ensure that every passenger knows the safety procedures and has been physically shown where they need to muster in case of emergency. A mandatory muster drill is held in the afternoon of embarkation day, usually around 4:00 pm. Everyone must attend in order to learn the location of your lifeboat station and other safety information. The drill takes 20 minutes or less and you do not have to bring your life jacket with you.

Make sure you turn off the cellular service on your phone while you’re at sea, so you don’t end up paying through the nose for “cellular at sea” service . There is a Disney Cruise Navigator app that you can use on most iPhones and Android phones without needing to pay for internet access. The Navigator app includes activity schedules and menus, and has a kind of text message feature that seems to work much better these days. We found that notifications were showing up quickly when people messaged using the app (our experience was with iPhone, we don’t know how well Android works).

“Cay” is pronounced “key” by locals – so unless you want to sound like a novice, remember this for Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island).

Disney asks you to select a P ort Arrival Time (PAT) when you do online check-in prior to your cruise. This arrival time was not rigidly enforced in the past, but lately, Disney has been enforcing people’s PATs pretty closely, especially during the early part of the boarding process. If you get to the terminal before 12:30, you will probably not be let in to the terminal until your time arrives. After 12:30 or so, Disney seems to just let people into the terminal as long as the check-in line isn’t completely full.

Bottom line: if you want to get on the ship as early as possible, definitely be ready to check in online on the morning your check-in opens! See below for when you can check in online:

• If you are staying at an official Walt Disney World resort or at Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport the night before your cruise, AND you booked that hotel as a package with the cruise, AND you are using Disney’s bus service to the port, your port arrival time is less important, and you may not even see an option to select one when you check in. From a Disney hotel, they’re going to assign you a bus, and generally you’ll just get there when you get there and the terminal staff will be ready to process and embark that whole busload of passengers. If you’re staying at the Hyatt, there will be multiple buses and you can take the first bus they’ll let you on. In either case, it’s rare to experience much wait no matter what your port arrival time is. But if you are offered the option to pick a port arrival time at checkin, pick the earliest reasonable time, just to be on the safe side. It can’t hurt, and it might save you some waiting.
• If you are staying in a concierge level stateroom or suite , you can check in and receive your port arrival time 40 days before embarkation day. That said, your shore-side concierge will likely offer to check you in on the first day you’re eligible, so effectively you can just let them handle it and they should get you the earliest arrival time (unless they know you won’t be arriving that early).
• If you are a Pearl member of the Castaway Club (25+ previous Disney cruises), you can check in and receive your port arrival time 40 days before embarkation day. 
• If you are a Platinum member of the Castaway Club (10-24 previous Disney cruises), you can check in and receive your port arrival time 38 days before embarkation day.
• If you are a Gold member of the Castaway Club (5-9 previous Disney cruises), you can check in and receive your port arrival time 35 days before embarkation day.
• If you are a Silver member of the Castaway Club (1-4 previous Disney cruises), you can check in and receive your port arrival time 33 days before embarkation day.
• If you have never before taken a Disney cruise, you can check in and receive your port arrival time 30 days before embarkation day.

When you arrive at Port Canaveral, you’ll hand off your bags to the dock workers. Tipping is theoretically optional, but it’s customary to tip them at least $1-$2 per bag, and we tend to tip on the high side for very helpful or friendly porters. Keep your carry-on/day bag with you. Get in line to go through check-in (during which time you’ll show your port arrival document several times), then get in line to go through security (you go through a metal detector and your carry-ons go through an x-ray).

The first people who will get on the ship are Group 1, which will usually be concierge level guests. Shortly after noon, announcements will be made for general boarding by group number. You’ll present your port arrival document as you board, have a family photo taken (or bypass the photo and get on the ship that much faster), and then your family will be announced as you arrive in the atrium of the ship. After that, the ship is yours!

Most people will head straight to lunch, and if you’re hungry, that’s a great idea. If you’ve brought your swimsuits in your day bag, this is a perfect time to enjoy the pool (or AquaDuck on the Dream or Fantasy and AquaMouse on the Wish), because the ship is still relatively empty and a lot of people will not have thought ahead. If you still need to make spa appointments, change your dinner rotation, sign up for shore excursions, book Palo, Remy or Enchanté, or book any specialty character meals or tea parties, now is the time to do that. You can also get your kids’ wristbands for the kids club. If it’s your first time on the ship, this is a good time to get a map and wander around familiarizing yourself with everything.

If you are a concierge level guest, there is a special concierge embarkation lunch, or you can go to the concierge lounge, where you can relax and enjoy a snack. You’ll be personally assisted with any bookings or changes you’d like to make (dining rotations, spa appointments, etc.)

At about 1:30-2:00, your room should be ready. Your bags will be delivered at some point in the afternoon (up until about 6:00 pm).

On the embarkation day, you won’t get access to your room until 1:30-2:00 pm, and you may not get all of your luggage until 6:00 pm (or occasionally even later), so its recommended you carry a bag that contains everything you’ll need between boarding the ship and dinner. If you want to swim or ride the AquaDuck or AquaMouse, for example, you will need all your swim stuff.

Here’s our checklist for packing our day bag. Some people like to use a rolling carry-on, but we prefer a small duffel. It’s your call; whatever you feel comfortable lugging around for an hour or two. You can also pack a small backpack for everyone to spread out the load.

• Flip-flops or water shoes (the deck can get hot )
• Reading material, iPad, videogames or other entertainment
• Camera, if you aren’t using your phone
• Medications you might need between noon and dinnertime
• Change of clothes for dinner, if what you wear to board the ship isn’t reasonable (though it almost certainly is fine, as long as it’s not a swimsuit).

The TV in your stateroom offers limited live TV programming, but a pretty extensive selection of Disney-owned movie and TV content. There is the Disney Channel, ABC and ESPN, all owned by Disney, plus some 24-hour news channels (MSNBC & Fox) and a small selection of basic cable channels. You can watch a huge variety of Disney movies and a few other family-friendly titles “on demand” (no extra charge).

Disney no longer provides the cordless Wave Phones; if you need to contact other members of your party, you are expected to use the Disney Navigator app on your phone. If you don’t have a compatible phone or don’t want to carry your phone, you have to fall back on the tried and true “let’s meet in XXX at YYY” or put a magnetic white board on your room door to exchange messages. Note that the kids club staff will only be able to contact you via the Navigator app, so if you don’t carry it around, you can’t be informed of issues with your kids.

Fire codes prevent cruise ships from having irons in staterooms, but irons are available for your use in the laundry rooms. Speaking of laundry, you can charge the cost of self-service laundry to your room key by swiping it through the readers on the washers and dryers.

Inside staterooms have no window (except the “ secret porthole ” rooms on the Wonder and Magic that are classified as inside but have an obstructed porthole). Inside staterooms on the Dream and Fantasy ships do have the “virtual porthole” that provides some light. It can be turned off with a switch by the bed. Bear in mind that on the Wonder, Magic and Wish (or on the Dream and Fantasy with the virtual porthole turned off), inside staterooms have no external light coming in to wake you up in the morning or give you a sense of what time it is. So if you’re anxious to get up and go in the morning, make sure you set an alarm or request a wake-up call.

A portable hair dryer can be found in a bag in the bathroom or in a desk drawer (call Guest Services if you can’t find it). It must be plugged into a European (220V) outlet at the desk. If you happen to be in a stateroom that also has a built-in hair dryer in the bathroom attached to the wall, we recommend leaving it alone; they don’t work well. Use the one in the drawer.

There is no longer a paper Navigator schedule given out in your stateroom, or even available from the front desk. You can only get the activity schedule via your phone or via the TV.

You can download the Navigator app for Apple or Android devices before you arrive at the embarkation port and then, once onboard, connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi network—complimentary for app use only. Downloading the app does not enable general-purpose internet access – you have to pay extra for that. In addition to giving you the ship’s daily schedule, the app has some information that isn’t in the paper Navigator, including menus for the various restaurants and some other useful tidbits. 

The Navigator app also has the all-aboard time and the local number of the ship’s agent, who is your contact if you have an emergency or are running late and might miss the ship (or have missed the ship). It’s not a bad idea to write those things down on a separate piece of paper to carry with you when you’re in port, just in case you lose your phone or the Navigator app gets flaky. If you have an emergency and don’t have your phone or the info on paper, you can call the port and ask them who the port agent is for your ship, and then call Disney’s port agent to let them know what’s happening.

The Navigator app now has a FREE text messaging feature. The messaging feature is available on all five ships. You do not need to buy a data plan to send messages to other people in your party, assuming they also have a device that can run the app. We didn’t really use it much in previous years because there could be 20-30 minutes between sending and message and the recipient getting a notification on their phone, but on our most recent cruise everything worked fine. Also, if you get the newer internet service that you can leave on all the time (currently available on the Wish, Magic, Dream and Fantasy) it will work with iMessage, WhatsApp and other messengers, and it will work with SMS text messaging if everyone’s phone has Wi-Fi cellular enabled.

Onboard Entertainment & Activities Tips

If you’re curious to know what movies will be shown on your sailing before you get on the ship, call  Disney Cruise customer service (800) 951-3532 about two weeks before your cruise and ask.

Want to ride the AquaDuck water coaster on the Dream or Fantasy or the AquaMouse on the Wish? MouseSavers.com reader Bill V has this tip: “If you enjoy the AquaDuck during the day, find an EVENING to ride it as well! Riding it at night, with the red-and-white lights strobing around the tube at each of the supports, is a completely different experience than the daytime, not to be missed! Also, the lines are truly non-existent if you go during dinner or show times, far shorter than even the times when most passengers are ashore when the ship is docked–my daughter rode it one evening over a dozen times in less than 90 minutes, usually walking on with no line whatsoever.” (This advice would apply to the AquaMouse on the Wish as well.)

Some special activities require advance sign-up at Guest Services. For instance, “Tea with Wendy,” (or “Tea with Alice” or some other character) is sometimes offered on some 7-night cruises, but has limited seating, and on cruises near Christmas, there is a build-your-own-gingerbread house activity, but they have a limited number of kits available. Check for those activities (they’ll generally be listed in the Navigator app) and sign up as soon as you can. Certain popular character meetings are also now requiring advance sign-up, usually on the first day.

Theater snacks : the theaters where the movies and shows are presented have concession stands selling expensive goodies such as canned sodas, bagged popcorn and candy, which can be charged to your room key. If you want to keep costs down, go up on the pool deck to the self-serve beverage station and get FREE sodas (or lemonade, tea, etc.) to bring into the show with you. You can also usually get FREE cookies from one of the counter-service locations on the pool deck and bring those along (or order cookies from room service, for only the cost of a tip). Concierge level guests on the Dream and Fantasy can get snacks, including cans of soda and sometimes popcorn, from the lounge. The snack bar at the theater has a refillable popcorn bucket that can be refilled for the rest of your cruise at a much cheaper price, so if you like popcorn, it’s a good idea to get one at the beginning of the cruise. Some people have brought popcorn buckets from previous cruises or from Walt Disney World and had them refilled, though that may or may not be official policy.

Embarkation Day

Once you’re onboard on embarkation day, you can eat lunch in one of three locations (or the concierge lunch if you’re in a concierge stateroom): the buffet, the pool deck food outlets (burgers, pizza, etc.) or a dining room (on the Magic, the primary lunch dining room is Lumiere’s; on the Wonder, it’s Triton’s; on the Dream and Fantasy, it’s Enchanted Garden; on the Wish, it’s been 1923 or Arendelle). The primary dining room lunch is a la carte with a normal lunch menu similar to the menu served on sea days. It has a tendency to fill up pretty quickly, so if you want to eat there, get on the ship as early as possible. There is also a lunch just for concierge guests in a different dining room.

Note that if you head for the inside dining room, you will encounter multiple crew members who will try to herd you to the buffet, which can handle more people. Just tell them you’d prefer the interior dining room. 

Breakfast and Lunch

During the cruise, there are usually two or three breakfast and lunch locations with different hours (check the Navigator app for hours). You can choose from one or more full-service restaurants with open seating (just show up when you want during opening hours, and they’ll seat you), or eat at the buffet.

Dinner Rotations

Your dinner arrangements — meaning your restaurant rotation schedule, and whether you have the early or late seating for dinner — are assigned before you embark on the cruise. You can find your restaurant rotation by checking the “My Plans” section of the Navigator app. It will also show your table number and seating time, as well as the recommended dress code and menu. If you have trouble using the app, Guest Services or any of the dining locations can help you get that information. 

If you want to change your seating or your restaurant rotation, do that as soon as you embark. The location on the ship where changes can be made will be listed in the Navigator app, or just go to Guest Services and they can point you in the right direction.

If you go to your assigned restaurant for dinner each night, your servers will be the same for every night of your cruise. On longer cruises they’ll get to know you, and may even have your “usual” beverage waiting for you at your table. If you are served something you don’t like, tell the servers and they’ll bring you something else. And if you want to indulge, they’ll be happy to bring you two desserts (or two appetizers, or even two entrees)! In true Disney style, if you have a special event you are celebrating, make sure your servers know. You will get appropriate special treatment (usually a special dessert, and perhaps some singing).

We recommend not rushing to dinner. If you show up five minutes or so after they begin seating you’ll walk right in. If you show up early you’ll just have to wait in line! Don’t wait too long, though: in order to get everyone served in a timely manner, each server really needs to get all the orders from all their tables at once. If you come too late, it throws off their timing, necessitating multiple extra trips to the kitchen and long delays for everyone. Also, if you won’t be at the regular rotation dinner one night, it’s helpful to tell your server or head server in advance, so they won’t wait for you to arrive to start service for the other tables.

We also recommend having the Navigator app open to your dinner reservation and table number the first time you arrive at each restaurant, so you can be seated more easily. But if you remember your table number, you can just tell the servers.  

Each restaurant has a “special” menu that is only offered at that restaurant, which will be used on one of the nights you visit each restaurant (the same night as the show, if there is one for that restaurant). On the other nights, you’ll get “standard” menus that are the same at all three restaurants (they change every night, but each of the three restaurants gets the same menu). 

Dinner Shows

The following restaurants have special shows and menus on one night of your cruise . These shows are one of the unique entertainment experiences on a Disney cruise, so try to see them if you can! Ask at Guest Services or ask your server which night it will be for your rotation. Move your Palo, Remy or Enchante reservations or change your dinner rotation if you have to. 

• Animator’s Palate (Magic, Wonder, Dream, Fantasy) — On the Magic & Wonder, this show allows everyone in the family to design a character and see it animated. It’s pretty neat! On the Dream & Fantasy, the show involves interacting with an animated character (Crush the sea turtle from Finding Nemo). On longer (7+ night) cruises on the Dream & Fantasy, they may also do a version of the “draw your own animated character” show on the second night you visit Animator’s Palate.
• Tiana’s Place (Wonder) — A rollicking dinner show with the characters and songs from The Princess & The Frog.
• Rapunzel’s Royal Table (Magic) — A fun musical show with characters and songs from Tangled.
• Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure (Wish) — An elaborate show where you’re a guest at an engagement party for Anna and Kristoff, hosted by Wandering Oaken. Enjoy songs and characters from the two Frozen movies.
• Worlds of Marvel (Wish) — A loud action spectacle involving Ant-Man and the Wasp (and some guest Marvel characters) takes place during dinner. Most of the action is ostensibly taking place elsewhere on the ship (you watch it on screens on the walls of the restaurant), but live-action Ant-Man and the Wasp appear near the end to wave at diners.

Premium Restaurants

If you enjoy fine dining, we definitely recommend making a reservation for Palo, Remy or Enchanté, particularly on a 4-night or longer cruise. There is a small extra cost (larger for Remy and Enchanté) but it is well worth it for the cuisine, the atmosphere, and the opportunity to enjoy a nice dinner without the kids. The Remy and Enchanté dinners are especially elaborate, and are similar to meals that cost much more at Michelin starred restaurants or Victoria & Albert’s at Walt Disney World. Palo can be found on all five Disney ships, though the menu is slightly different (and more steakhouse-oriented) on the Wish. Remy is only on the Dream and Fantasy, and Enchanté is only on the Wish.

Alternatively, consider booking the Palo, Enchanté or Remy brunch (offered usually only once or twice on most cruises). We find the premium brunches particularly fabulous and might even prefer them to dinner in Palo.

Palo, Remy and Enchanté are very popular, so book them as early as you can . If you’re not able to get a reservation in advance, check the Navigator app or ask a crew member to find the location where you can go and request a reservation onboard.

If you want to skip one of the regular rotation restaurants in order to dine in Palo, Remy or Enchanté, our suggestion is to call Disney to find out the dining rotations for your cruise and pick a night that is the second visit to a restaurant, since the first night is very likely to be that restaurant’s special menu (and will have a show, if there is a show at that restaurant). For example, if your rotation is “Enchanted Garden, Rapunzel’s Table, Rapunzel’s Table, Animator’s Palate”, pick the third night, since it is the most likely to be a “standard” menu.

Keep in mind that the dinner rotations and timing of Animator’s Palate, Tiana’s, Rapunzel’s, Marvel or Arendelle shows are subject to change, and in our experience the folks at the Disney call center don’t always have accurate information about when the show will happen. The people actually on the ship know, so if you want to be sure your premium dining doesn’t happen on a dinner show night, go to Guest Services or the dining reservation location listed in the Navigator app on the first day of your cruise and ask. If there’s a conflict, they can either reschedule your premium dinner or put you on a different main dining rotation.

Alternate Dining Options

There are always plenty of options for food: check the Navigator app to know which restaurants are open at what times.

In the past, Disney has opened up the buffet area (Cabanas or Marceline Market) for dinner on most nights of the cruise (usually all but the first night), but as a table-service venue, not a buffet. There’s no specific time, you just show up and choose from a limited menu that includes some of the same foods served in the main dining rooms (but without all the hoopla). Of late they haven’t been doing it, but all indications are that this is a temporary post-pandemic measure because of logistics issues, so it could restart any time. If you’d prefer a quieter dinner at your own dining time, ask if it’s an option on your cruise.

There are fast-food locations up on the pool deck, serving kid-friendly fast food. We think the burgers and other sandwiches on a bun are edible, and the mini-wraps are quite good. The pizza is not a highlight – the toppings are fine, but the crust is sub-par, except on the Wish, where it is pretty good. The Wish also has a barbeque window, and a Mexican food window with choose-your-own ingredient bowls, tacos and burritos (think Chipotle), and both of those options are quite good. The fruit is fruit; nothing wrong with it. The soft-serve ice cream is not very creamy, but it makes a nice snack on a hot day, and they usually rotate in some unusual flavors like mango or strawberry over the course of the cruise.

On most ships, there are some small snacks available most of the day. In the adult coffee bar, there have generally been free mini-desserts available during the day, and little antipasto nibbles during the evening, but we didn’t see them on the Wish. In the adult lounge area on the lower decks, there is usually a (small) hot snack buffet available for part of the evening, either in the pub or the hallway between the various lounges. Usually there’s something like a build-your-own nacho bar, plus some sort of hot savory like pigs in a blanket or egg rolls. Again, this little mini-buffet has not been present on the Wish. In the pub on each ship, there are about 4-6 extra-cost hot snacks & entrees you can order. Typically at least one of the pool deck food stations will be open until midnight, usually pizza. From midnight until breakfast time (6:30 or so) room service is the only food option.

On Alaska cruises, there have usually been some snacks on the front of the ship on the pool deck on the glacier-viewing day , including hot soup in small bread bowls, cookies and hot cocoa. They also usually do a special barbecue lunch that day on the deck behind the buffet, typically sausage, fish, and steak. Sometimes they have been known to serve elk or another Alaska specialty. Make sure you go out to the deck to check it out; we met many people who had no idea the cookout was happening and just ate regular buffet food instead of the fresh-grilled options just a few steps away.

Concierge guests have access to snacks and beverages (bottled water, soft drinks, coffee drinks) in the concierge lounge.

Kids’ Meals

There are kid’s menu options at all the table-service meals , but children are not limited to eating from those menus. Your servers will bring your kids whatever they want, including full adult appetizers, meals and desserts, and in fact if there’s something on the ship they can get or make, they’ll usually try to accommodate you even if it’s not on the menu. In other words, if all your kids want is french fries, that’s not a problem, assuming you’re OK with it.

It’s worth noting that asking your server to bring you something from another restaurant is not a trivial undertaking . They will almost certainly do it, because they really want guests to be happy, but don’t spring a request on them unless you really can’t find anything else for your kids to eat. And if possible, let the service staff know early if your child has specific food issues. If they know in advance that your child will only eat french fries and chicken fingers, they can have those ready each night.

If you have kids in the Oceaneer Club, they will be offered lunch and dinner if they are in the Club at the appropriate time. There are not usually a lot of choices, but what they’ll offer is going to be pretty simple and kid-friendly, like chicken nuggets and apple slices.

Two key things to be aware of: one, they usually don’t serve the kids dinner on the first night of the cruise (the day of embarkation). So if you have Palo or Remy reservations for that night, you’ll need to feed your kids yourself. Fortunately that’s easy: all you have to do is get food for the kids before or after your reservation from one of the fast-food restaurants on the pool deck. Two: be aware of when the kids are served. Meal times may be too early for your liking if you leave your kids in the Club.

Also, keep in mind that the Disney crew members will not make your kids sit down to eat. They will make sure every child is informed that food is being served, but they can’t and won’t make your children stop playing to eat, and there is one opportunity to eat for each mealtime. There are no snacks served in the club between meal times. It’s a good idea when you pick up your kids to check if they ate and if they are hungry.

Dine and Play Program

Please note : The Dine and Play program is temporarily suspended, but may return at any time. Ask about it onboard if you’re interested.

The Dine and Play program allows children to get their meals quicker and adults to check in a child for Youth Activities without leaving the dining room. The Dine and Play program is offered for families assigned to second dining, and is open to children ages 3-12. 

Here’s how it works: You arrive in the dining room and inform the server that your child would like to participate in Dine and Play. The dining room team brings the child’s meal first while serving the adults at a more leisurely pace.

About 45 minutes after seating begins, Youth Activities Counselors arrive in the dining room and sign in the child to Disney’s Oceaneer Club, eliminating the need for you to escort the child to Deck 5.

Adults are then able to enjoy the full dining experience with the knowledge that their children are having a great time in a safe, fun and comfortable environment.

Alternative approach: You can ask your server to feed the kids as fast as possible, and then have an adult walk them over to the kids club and check them in. It only takes a few minutes to get to the club and back. Some parents have told us their kids prefer this method over using Dine & Play, as you can get the kids to the club whenever they’re ready and there’s less waiting around.

Room Service

Room service is not a strong suit on Disney Cruise Line. The food, in our experience, is merely adequate. It is free (though a tip is welcomed) and convenient, though. Selection is mostly very basic and very middle-American: sandwiches, basic soups, chicken wings, a few salads, a cheese plate, burger, pizza or topped flatbreads. 

If the buffet or top deck restaurants are open, we suggest sending someone to the buffet or top deck instead of ordering room service . The selection in the buffet is much better and the food better prepared. The top deck restaurants have a more limited selection, but sending someone to the top deck for food has always resulted in hotter, fresher food when we’ve done it. That said, if you’re worn out, or come back really late from a port excursion, it’s nice to know they will bring you food any time.

Mickey bars (Mickey head shaped ice cream bars) and Smuckers Uncrustables (packaged peanut butter & jelly sandwiches) are not on the menu, but have usually been available on request.

Special orders are limited , but if you want something simple that is not on the menu, but is made with components used in items that are on the menu, such as a grilled cheese sandwich, plain salad without dressing, plain hamburger patty with no bun or just an order of french fries, they will usually make that for you on request.

Room service breakfast in the regular staterooms is a very basic Continental offering of various baked goods, cereal, milk, hot drinks and juice. There is nothing hot and no real protein, so if you like eggs and bacon in the morning, head for the buffet or whichever dining room is serving breakfast (it’s listed in the Disney Cruise Navigator app). We do sometimes use room service to get coffee delivered in the morning. Though lately we just have them deliver hot water, because we prefer the Starbucks Via packets to the ship’s reconstituted coffee product.

Guests in concierge staterooms and suites can order dinner from the rotation restaurants during regular dinner hours . Ask your concierge staff for a menu. All courses of your meal are brought at once, which doesn’t do good things for the quality of the meal, but it’s still better than the regular room service offerings. Concierge level guests can order hot breakfasts in their suites and staterooms during the cruise.

Many common beverages (including sodas) are available FREE most of the time , but there are situations where you could be charged for them. Here are the basic rules:

• The self-service drink station on the pool deck offers milk , juice , tea (hot or iced) , coffee, hot cocoa , lemonade, plain water and fountain sodas  at no extra charge 24 hours a day.
• The dining rooms (including Palo, Remy and Enchanté) offer milk , juice , tea (hot or iced) , coffee , hot cocoa ,  lemonade, plain water and fountain sodas  at no extra charge with meals. All other drinks can be ordered, but cost money.
• Castaway Cay offers milk , juice , tea (iced only) , lemonade, plain water and fountain sodas  for free. All other cold drinks (except iced espresso drinks) can be ordered at a bar, but cost money. No hot drinks are available. 
• Room service offers milk , juice , tea (hot or iced), plain water and  coffee free. All other drinks cost money. 
• All bars (including espresso bars) charge for all beverages , except plain tap water.
• Bottled water, canned and bottled soda and soft drinks , alcoholic beverages , mocktails , smoothies, shakes  and espresso drinks (and related drinks like chai lattes) always cost money no matter where you order them.
• The fountain sodas are all Coca-Cola products (which could change any time, but Coca-Cola has had a strong partnership with Disney for many years). The bars have a wider selection of canned and bottled beverages available, at a charge.

Consider bringing your own bottled water if you think you’ll drink a lot of it on shore excursions, Castaway Cay, etc. Bottled water on the ship or Castaway Cay is expensive. Consider packing a small carry-on suitcase with just bottled water. Then on the way home you’ll have room for all those things you didn’t plan to buy. (If you are staying on concierge level on the Dream or Fantasy, bottled water is provided in the lounge without cost.)

Disney allows each adult to bring up to two 750 ml bottles of wine or six 12 oz beers onboard at embarkation and at each port visited. Bottles must be sealed and they must be in your carry-on luggage.  Spirits (rum, vodka, whiskey, etc.) are not allowed (they will be confiscated and given back to you at disembarkation).

Sealed bottles or cans of non-alcoholic beverages can be carried on in any amount that will fit through the x-ray machines (carry-on bag sized, in other words). As for coolers, Disney officially says that you can only take aboard small (12″ x 12″ x 12″ max) soft-sided coolers for keeping things like insulin and breast milk cold. In practice, soft coolers can be any size that’s small enough to fit through the x-ray machine (again, basically the size of a carry-on bag), but no hard-sided or wheeled coolers.

Disney, like all other cruise lines, does not allow any beverages in checked bags , because checked baggage is stacked up and handled roughly during the loading process, which could cause containers of liquids to break and/or leak onto other people’s luggage. They do screen for those items. If they find disallowed items, the items will be confiscated and given back at the end of the cruise.

Coffee and Tea

Regular American-style coffee on Disney ships is unfortunately not good. The “drip” coffee they serve throughout the ship is made in a machine that looks vaguely like a coffee urn, but actually produces instant coffee on demand by mixing liquid concentrate and hot water. When it’s made in a properly-calibrated machine it tastes like OK instant coffee (not as good as Starbucks Via, but better than Folger’s Crystals). If the machine is out of calibration, it can be really weak or very strong.

If you like your coffee with cream and sugar or just aren’t picky about coffee, you may be fine with the reconstituted coffee . If you like quality coffee, you may want to order espresso drinks (at extra cost), which are available at most bars and sit-down restaurants and at the bar in the Wish, Dream & Fantasy’s buffets. You might also consider bringing Starbucks Via packets if you like them. In our experience the Via is much better than the reconstituted stuff.

If you’re a tea drinker, the news is better: there are a wide variety of Twinings tea bags (regular and herbal) at the main deck drink stations and in the dining rooms. And in the dining rooms, they almost always serve tea properly, with acceptably hot water and a small pitcher of milk upon request.

The iced tea served everywhere is unsweetened reconstituted iced tea from a soda machine (Fuze brand from Coca-Cola), but you can make your own iced tea by brewing fresh hot tea and adding ice and water, and that is much better. Our recipe: put two regular black tea bags in a cup of hot water, steep three minutes, stir in sugar if desired, then pour over a full cup of ice. Add water to taste.

Most bars on the ship have espresso machines , including the adults-only Cove Cafe on the pool deck and the all-ages Promenade Lounge on deck 3 (Wonder & Magic), Vista Café on deck 4 (Dream & Fantasy), and all bars and lounges on the Wish. Espresso is also available in the main dining rooms, the premium restaurants, and the Dream, Fantasy and Wish buffets. All espresso drinks cost extra, generally about the same price as on land. If you are a regular consumer of espresso drinks, be sure to get a coffee card. Each time you buy a latte, cappucino, etc. they will mark the card. Your sixth beverage is FREE! If you don’t fill your card during the cruise, hold onto it — it can be used on a future cruise, even on a different Disney ship!

Wine Packages and Refillable Beer Mug

Disney doesn’t have any “all you can drink” packages available. You don’t really need one for sodas, since they’re included (except at bars). Alcohol and other specialty beverages are always a la carte. There are, however, two programs that could save you some money (albeit with a few caveats).

Wine Packages

This is an opportunity to pre-pay for a certain number of bottles of wine, which you can enjoy at any of the sit-down restaurants. If you don’t finish one, you can get it recorked for the next night (and they’ll take it to the next restaurant in the rotation, or you can get it brought to you at Palo, Remy or Enchanté), or you can take it with you to your room. If you don’t end up drinking them all, you can take the remainder home. Your server will usually suggest buying one bottle per cruise night, but you can buy more or less if you like. The wines are all from a set list, which changes from time to time, and usually includes about 10-12 white wines and 8-10 red wines. There are two tiers, with the more expensive one including fancier bottles of wine. The wines on the list change regularly, but we think the choices are all pretty good, with a few real winners on each list. Disney pushes these packages aggressively: a brochure will be on the table your first night, and one of your servers will offer a sales pitch the first night.

We went to the trouble a few years ago to price out all the wines on the list and compare to the average cost per bottle from the packages . The price per bottle in the packages was about $2-3 cheaper than the average price of the bottles included in the package. However, the packages typically have only 5-7 selections that sell for more than the average price, and 12-15 selections that sell for less than the average price. So if you pick random bottles from the list, you’re very likely to end up spending more (or at least not much less) by buying the package. To come out ahead, you have to consistently order from the few bottles that are higher priced.

Frankly, our opinion is that it’s not worth the trouble, at least as a money-saving strategy . If buying your dinner wine in advance will help you relax, then go ahead; you certainly won’t lose much money unless you happen to always pick the cheapest wine on the list. And if you really love a particular wine or wines that you know are higher-priced, and you plan to only drink those, the plan will save you a few bucks per bottle.

Refillable Beer Mug

This is a large 21 oz glass souvenir beer mug that you can buy at any bar for $17 (last we checked). When you get it filled (at any bar or restaurant), you get 21 ounces for the price of a 16 ounce draft beer. One nice thing is that you don’t have to cart the mug around; they’ll give you a little token you can trade for a mug at any time. So you give the token to your server and get a mug of beer, and when you’re done you can give them the mug and ask for the token back. At the end of the cruise, just stop by any bar to get a nice clean mug to take home. The selection of draft beers is pretty good, and in addition to the standard American beers, there are always a few craft beers like Widmer or Full Sail and even sometimes a cider like Strongbow. (Disney Cruise Line advertises this as a 21 oz glass, but we heard from a reader who measured it and found it actually held 20 oz when filled to the rim.)

Purely as a money-saving strategy, it’s hard to get your money’s worth out of the mug unless you really like beer. However, if you like the idea of having a Disney Cruise Line souvenir beer mug, and the price seems reasonable, then the extra beer is basically FREE. Make sure to tell your spouse that when you buy it.

Disembarkation Day

Breakfast is served on the day of disembarkation. In fact, you’ll have an assigned restaurant and time for breakfast for disembarkation, or you can choose to eat at the buffet instead. It will be a much smaller selection than during the cruise: welcome back to the real world!

Regular guests do not have access to room service on disembarkation morning. Concierge level guests can order a standard Continental breakfast from room service on disembarkation morning.

Most kids find the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, for ages 3-10, to be the best part of a Disney cruise. There is a lot to do, with great hands-on organized activities going on all the time.

Signing in and out is a relatively easy process considering what needs to be done to protect the children. However, you may have to wait in line either to drop them off or pick them up. Plan at least 5 minutes for the pick up or drop off process. If your children are 8 years old or older, they can be given the ability to sign themselves in and out on their own.

The Navigator app will tell you what’s happening and where your kids are at any given time. Check the app to see if your children will be out of the Club at the time you want to sign them out – for instance, they could be up on the deck playing basketball. Using the app to plan will save you a wasted trip. Also, when the kids are moving from one location to another, they will not allow you to sign them in or out, so there can be a 10-15 minute window where you have to wait.

You can keep your child signed in to the Oceaneer Club while at Castaway Cay. They will take the kids off the ship to special play areas for supervised games and activities throughout the day. If you do this, be sure to bring your phone with you. The Wi-Fi covers much of Castaway Cay and the app tends to work OK. But if you want your kids to join you for some time on the island, make sure you know their schedule of activities. They eat lunch fairly early, and are taken back to the ship before the beach closes.

Edge is the “tween” club for ages 11-14. Vibe is the teen club for ages 14-17. A 14-year-old can access both Edge and Vibe, but they will have to register for both. Disney will sometimes be slightly flexible about the age groups for these clubs, and will sometimes allow a child that is a little younger than the target age into the older teen club if they have space in the club your child wants to attend, especially if they have a friend or sibling in the older club. This is not guaranteed, but it’s worth asking.

The Disney Cruise offers many opportunities to meet characters . You will see most of the popular characters at some point or another on the Disney Cruise. Greeting times are available in the Navigator app. The lines for character greetings usually start forming about 15 minutes before the scheduled greeting time, so if you can get there 10 minutes beforehand, you won’t have a long wait once the characters arrive.

Some popular character meetings and meals may require advance booking . There’s no charge for the character meetings, but certain breakfasts or teas with characters may have an additional fee. You should book these as early as you can online; the bookings open on the same schedule as  booking excursions and Palo/Remy/Enchanté . You can also call or stop by guest services on the first day and ask about tickets; they may hold back some slots for onboard booking. Thanks to Sarah B and Rachel P for info.

Bring your kids’ Disney costumes, if they have any. The cruise is a great opportunity to get pictures of your daughter dressed as Belle with the “real” Belle herself, without her having to wear the costume all day.

If you’re on a 7-night cruise, you may have an assigned Character Breakfast on one of the days of the cruise. You’ll get a chance for photos with all the main Disney characters, including Mickey and Minnie!

Most of the character greetings will include a Disney professional photographer , so if your own photo doesn’t turn out you can still buy a memento from Shutters, the onboard photo location.

Read our tips, tricks and discounts on Port Excursions !

The list below is mostly based on reader suggestions. We have to admit, we have taken Disney cruises at various times without these, and everything went just fine. So don’t go too crazy with overpacking! But some of these are good ideas for specific needs.

• Water shoes – Always a good idea if you’ll be snorkeling or wading where there are coral reefs and sharp rocks. Also handy to protect your feet on hot sand, concrete or the pool deck; the sun can make the deck very hot and you’ll want some of these or some simple flip-flops while hanging around the pool. You can wear water shoes that are secure and not likely to come off on the AquaDuck, AquaMouse and AquaDunk, but flip-flops or water shoes that slip off easily will need to be stowed before riding.
• Safe Sea lotion – This is a lotion that protects against jellyfish, sea nettle, and seabather’s eruption , caused by jellyfish larvae that are sometimes called “sea lice.” There is actual independent research that backs this up – we’ve read it and are satisfied that it works. We want to reassure people that large jellyfish are kept out of the lagoon at Castaway Cay by netting under the water, so we’ve never heard of anyone getting a serious sting there, but people do occasionally get seabather’s eruption. At other beaches in the Bahamas and Caribbean jellyfish stings are not common, but they do happen. The peak season for jellyfish is summer (June-August) and they’re rare in winter. We actually had a very minor issue with seabather’s eruption on one trip to Castaway Cay (on some skin that didn’t have lotion; we failed to note that you need to apply some underneath the swimsuit for full protection), and we can attest that while it’s not the end of the world, it’s quite unpleasant and worth avoiding. Certainly the lotion is a cheap form of insurance, and there are formulations that include sunscreen, which you’ll need anyway. Another option is to bring some jellyfish after-sting gel  just in case, or some sources recommend hydrocortisone cream or antihistamine cream .
• Body Powder – If you’ve ever tried to wipe beach sand off your body, you know it tends to stick in an annoying manner. It turns out it sticks to your skin because of residual moisture, and if you just rub your skin with water-absorbent powder (i.e. scented cornstarch), the sand drops right off. We used to recommend a very useful little mitt that contained cornstarch-based body powder for wiping off sand. Apparently that mitt isn’t made any more, but you can get the same effect by just sprinkling the powder on a towel and wiping with that. Do make sure you’re getting plain cornstarch powder, or at least talc-free powder. Talc is not good to breathe.
• Robe – if you like to wear one in your room, you’ll need to bring your own unless you’re in a concierge room. Some people have had luck asking their stateroom attendant, but it’s not guaranteed they can get you one.
• Pop-up Hamper – We like the rectangular kind with a circular opening on the top, as opposed to the ones that look like a big round cloth-covered spring. The squarer ones seem to hold their shape better. They only weigh 8 ounces, fold down to a small circle, and fit nicely into hotel and stateroom closets.
• Dry box/case – Basically, a small waterproof box or pouch on a lanyard. Used by scuba divers and snorkelers, these are handy for any beach visit, because you can keep your ID and some money around your neck, instead of sticking valuables in your shoe and leaving them on the beach (yeah, everyone knows about THAT hiding place!)
• Clothespins – These have a variety of uses, from weighing down a shower curtain that wants to stick to you, to anchoring your beach towel to a lounge chair. You can clip your curtains together if you want to minimize light leakage in the morning. Oh, and you can use them to hang laundry up to dry, too (there’s a retractable clothesline in the bathtub).
• Night light – Particularly if you are staying in one of the Inside cabins on the Magic, Wonder or Wish, this is nice to have. It’s pitch black in those rooms when the lights are off. If you don’t want to use up a wall plug, you can get a USB light that plugs into an empty USB charger port. (It’ll also work in a laptop USB port, but not all laptops keep power to the USB ports when they go to sleep, so you’d want to check that first.) An LED flashlight or headlamp can also be handy if you need to get up in the middle of the night and don’t want to turn on lights.
• Magnets – The stateroom doors are metal (except for the doors in the concierge section of the Dream and Fantasy). You can stick magnets on them to decorate your door, and it makes it easier for your children (and you) to identify your room. Don’t bring anything you can’t bear to lose: these do get taken sometimes. Please note that you are not allowed to use any type of adhesive on your door, including removable gel adhesives that supposedly come off clean. You will be charged for any damage to the door.
• Multi-USB charger – When we have a lot of things to charge while travelling, normally we bring a  travel power strip , but as mentioned below, power strips are generally not allowed on Disney ships. Now we bring a multi-charger, which can charge 4 or more devices from one outlet. We’ve used Anker brand as well as Amazon Basics, and they’ve both been perfectly fine. You’ll need to also bring the USB cable for each device. We’d recommend getting at least a 40W model if you have anything more than just a phone or two. A 60W model typically has six outlets and might be just the thing if you have a lot of tablets and phones to charge, or you want a spare port to plug a USB night light into. Note that on the Magic and Wonder, they’ve installed a few more USA-type power outlets near the desk, and there are a couple of USB charging ports at the desk and on the alarm clock next to the bed. The Wish staterooms have tons of USB charging outlets at the desk and next to the bed, including two USB-C ports, so you can probably get by without a USB charger on that ship.
• Irons are NOT ALLOWED as they are a fire hazard. Fire is a huge danger on cruise ships. If you take an iron it will be confiscated from your luggage. Irons are available for your use in the laundry rooms.
• Rolls of quarters – In the past, these were needed for the self-service laundry onboard, but now you just swipe your room key for use of the washer, dryer, soap and dryer sheets. The cost is charged to your account.
• Over-the-door shoe organizer – Some people have used these to store toiletries or other small items. Disney now asks that you do NOT use them as they “scratch and/or disfigure stateroom doors and trim.” You will be charged for any damage.
• Seasickness medication – Unless you KNOW you get seasick on cruise ships, don’t bother bringing this. If you do get queasy, the ship’s health center or the guest services desk will give you FREE over the counter medication (generic meclizine, the ingredient in Bonine or non-drowsy Dramamine). If you get super-queasy the health center can get you prescription medication (for a fee).
• Beach towels – They are provided when you get off the ship on beach days.
• Power/outlet strip – These are not allowed on the ship. MouseSavers.com reader Christina N reports: “… they confiscated these from my bag and from others. They do not allow them as it blows circuits in the room.” Technically, they only ban extension cords, and power strips with surge protectors, but in practice people have reported having just about any kind of multi-outlet strip or adapter confiscated, because the people doing the screening don’t want to figure out whether your power strip is one of the “bad” ones. One thing not many people know is that there’s an open outlet behind the TV in most cabins on the Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy. The TVs are on a pivoting arm, so it’s easy to pull them out and expose the spare plug. Many smartphones and smaller tablets can be charged through a USB cable connected to a laptop, so if you take a USB cable you’ll only need one outlet, to plug in the laptop. Or you might want to pack a multi-USB charger like the ones mentioned above. And over time Disney has been adding USB charging ports to the outlets near the desk, so you might not need a power strip depending on how many devices you have.
• Extension cords – the only extension cords allowed on the ship are ones you can borrow from Guest Services ($50 deposit required; refunded when you return the cord). There are a limited number and availability is first-come, first-served. If you need one for a CPAP or other medical device, one will be made available, but all of the ships now have a plug next to the bed, so you shouldn’t need an extension for a CPAP. On the Wish, there are US-style plugs next to one side of the bed, and a European plug on the other side. So if you have a CPAP or other device that goes next to the bed, and you really prefer to sleep on a specific side, make sure you have the correct plug adapter and your CPAP power supply handles both 110 and 220 volt current (almost all of them do, but you should check).
• Hairdryer (maybe) – Hairdryers are provided, but the ones provided might not be up to your standards. If you’re not picky, don’t bother packing one.
• High chair / booster seat – Both are provided on request in the dining room.
• Pack and play crib – These are provided onboard (request when booking your cruise).
• Stroller (maybe) – There are some strollers available to borrow onboard (deposit required) and on Castaway Cay. However, there are a limited number and it’s first-come, first-served. If you have a little one, it’s not a bad idea to bring a small umbrella stroller along.

During the day and most evenings on the Disney Cruise Line, you can wear casual clothing. At dinner, you are asked to stick to “cruise casual.” Most men wear a collared shirt (aloha shirts and golf/polo shirts are fine) and long pants (chinos or dress slacks) or nice shorts. Most women wear a skirt, dress, nice pants or dressy capris. Disney requests no swimwear or tank tops at dinner, but in practice, dressier tank-style tops will usually be acceptable. People who show up to the main dining rooms in swimsuits are almost always asked to change.

There are times when dressing up to some extent is either required or encouraged:

• When having dinner at Palo, Remy or Enchanté, the dress code is basically “business casual plus.” Men are required to wear long pants suitable for professional work (which could include “nice” jeans), collared shirts and dressier shoes. Some men wear suits or even tuxedos. Women can wear pretty much anything “nice” that isn’t swimwear, casual t-shirts, shorts or sportswear. Semi-formal or even formal wear would not be out of place. At Brunch or Tea at either restaurant, the dress code is “cruise casual,” which basically means no shorts, swimsuits, tank tops or flip-flops.
• On 4-night or longer cruises, there will be one or two “optional dress up” nights that you can interpret how you will. Dressing up is not required, but some folks will make an effort to change for dinner. On our most recent Disney cruises we’ve seen a handful of tuxedos on dress-up nights and a few dozen men wearing jackets. A fair number of women were dressed in nicer outfits. Lots and lots of people were just in normal “cruise casual” outfits, so if you don’t like to dress up don’t feel like you’re under any obligation to do so. On the other hand, if you like to dress up, it’s a great opportunity. The crew and the Disney characters will be in nicer clothes, there will be photo stations where you can get a picture of the whole family in nice outfits, and you won’t feel overdressed in a gown or tux.
• Some people like to wear dressy or semi-formal clothing on the nights when they dine in Lumiere’s (Magic), Triton’s (Wonder) or Royal Palace/Royal Court (Dream or Fantasy), since those are the restaurants with the fanciest theming but this is not by any means required.
• Similarly, a few people like to dress in 1920’s inspired clothes when dining in 1923 on the Disney Wish. This is just a fun thing to do and not in any way required.

Where to Buy Disney Cruise Wear

If you’re looking for Disney-themed casual cruise wear (aloha shirts, etc.), a good place to look is DisneyStore.com . Unfortunately they only offer resort wear on a seasonal basis (usually spring and summer), but even in the winter it’s always worth looking to see if they have anything in the sale section.

DisneyStore.com  carries a significant amount of Disney Cruise Line clothing and other logo merchandise as well.

• See current discounts and offers for DisneyStore.com.

Your phone should still be able to reach a tower on land as long as the ship is in port, but once you are at sea, we strongly advise you to turn off international roaming and data roaming, to avoid having your phone accidentally use the “Cellular@Sea” service, which is very expensive. You can (and should) leave wi-fi turned on, so you can use Disney’s Navigator App to see the current schedules and menus and so forth.

You can also use the Disney Navigator App on your own phone to send messages to other people in your party. To get message notifications as quickly as possible, make sure that notifications are enabled for the Disney Navigator app, as well as background updates. Basically in our experience, the Navigator app needs to have all permissions set to “on,” including Location, Bluetooth, Notifications, and Background Update. You can (and perhaps should) turn those off again once your cruise has ended.

If you absolutely must use your phone to call or text while at sea, service may be available on Disney ships through the “Cellular@Sea” service. It is a very expensive form of international roaming and the ship must be 8 to 10 miles out to sea before you can access it. Most phones will just connect to Cellular@Sea without needing any special setup, but be aware that the service includes phone, text messaging, and data . If your phone is set to auto-update, you could end up on the hook for a large data charge because it decided to download a 100MB game update or something. Definitely turn off your cellular data, or set it to not use cellular data when roaming.

US phones will work in most international ports if you have turned on international roaming. You might need to arrange with your provider for that feature to be turned on in advance, but most providers have it set up by default. Depending on your provider, roaming may be very expensive (potentially over $2 per minute, and $10 or more per megabyte of data). Check with your provider for special international roaming packages, which may save you money if you plan to use your phone a lot.

Wireless internet service is available on all Disney ships . All internet is over satellite, and you shouldn’t expect speeds or responsiveness similar to what you get on land, though it’s usually good enough to send messages and emails and use Facebook and other social media.

Internet service on Disney ships is paid for by the day, and is theoretically “unlimited .” It’s pretty fast for cruise ship internet, but still slower than most land-based systems. You’re sharing bandwidth with all the other passengers and crew, so right after you leave a port, expect the internet to crawl as everyone starts posting pictures of their excursions to social media. If you have cellular internet service that works in that country (and is reasonably priced), you may want to post your pictures before you leave port via cellular rather than via wi-fi. If your cellular is flaky, get to the top deck and walk over to the side of the ship closest to land. Alternatively, wait until dinner time, when the wi-fi speeds will pick up considerably.

Prices are (so far) pretty reasonable for cruise ship internet, with a basic single-device plan that lets you use Facebook and similar apps (but not email or web) for $16/day (when purchased for the whole cruise), a fancier plan that includes email and web (but no streaming) for $24/day, and a premium plan that includes music streaming for $34/day. Video streaming is not supported on any plan , so no Netflix or Hulu. Plans cost a little more if you only buy a plan for individual days rather than the whole cruise, and there is a small discount for adding additional devices.

Spa: Treatments, Products and Fitness Center

Spa treatments are very popular and fill up early , so book them as early as you can . If you’re not able to get an appointment before you embark, go to the Spa when you get onboard and you’ll probably be able to arrange one in person.

We don’t recommend having any spa treatments done on the first (embarkation) day , because people are touring the Spa all afternoon and evening, making it busy and not very relaxing. It’s a good day to set up your future appointments, but not as good for actually having treatments done.

The changing rooms in the spa have fluffy robes for your use. Sadly, the robes are all “one size fits most” and aren’t big enough for many people. You then can choose a locker that contains a clean pair of spa sandals. The lockers allow you to set your own combination for secure storage of your personal items. We don’t find the sandals they provide very comfortable (again, they’re “one size fits most”), so we just wear a clean pair of sandals or flip-flops to our spa appointment.

You can change into your robe in the open locker room or in one of the toilet cubicles. Once you’re in your robe and sandals, an attendant will escort you to a quiet waiting room, where you can enjoy some water while you wait for your treatment. After your treatment you’ll be escorted back to the locker room, where you can use one of the spacious showers if you wish. Basic toiletries, disposable combs, etc. are provided. On the Dream and Fantasy, there is a dry sauna in the locker room that you can enjoy after your treatment for no additional charge.

If you are considering a Cabana Massage on Castaway Cay, here are a few things to consider first:

• The cabanas are rustic. There is no running water in them, so your massage therapist cannot wash her hands during your treatment. There is no air conditioning (there is a ceiling fan) or heat so it can be unpleasantly hot in the summer and uncomfortably cool in the winter.
• Your feet and lower legs will almost certainly be covered with sand by the time you get to the cabana, and there’s really no facility for removing it. (There is an outdoor shower near the waiting area, but you’ll then proceed across the sand to the cabana… you’ll get sandy again, trust us.) So the sand inevitably becomes part of the treatment. How you feel about having sandy oil rubbed into your skin is a matter of preference. And remember, the massage oil dissolves any sunscreen you’re wearing, so you’ll need to reapply it afterward, which enters the mix with the sand.
• When you envision this experience, you might think you would be relaxing to the sound of the ocean waves. Nope. The cabanas are located right above the lounge chairs along the beach (though visually separated by some plants), so you will hear the chatter of people sitting right below you.
• The Cabana Massage is billed as featuring “breathtaking views of Serenity Bay.” Well, that’s true for the massage therapist, but you’ll be lying on a table, and you won’t see the scenery from there.
• The Cabana Massage is more expensive than a regular massage in the ship’s spa, yet in many ways you are getting less for your money. If you have a massage on the ship, you’ll have access to showers, a locker room, robes and sandals, etc. With the Cabana Massages, you get none of that.

The Rainforest

The Rainforest is a lovely, relaxing co-ed spa area on each ship.

• On the Magic and Wonder , the Rainforest includes three tiled steam rooms (each a different temperature), some open showers with different scented “rain” programs and a few heated loungers.
• On the Dream and Fantasy , the Rainforest has a dry sauna, a hot steam room and a hammam (a large, tiled steam room that is less hot than the regular steam room), four scented showers with multiple “rain” programs, numerous heated loungers with views of the sea and two hot tubs on a private deck overlooking the water.
• On the Wish , the Rainforest has a dry sauna, hammam, a cryotherapy (cold) room, showers with rain programs, heated loungers, and a nice sun deck ( much larger than the one on the Dream & Fantasy) with two hot tubs and plenty of sun beds. The sun deck is tucked into the nose of the ship, one deck below the promenade, so there’s no ocean view, but you can see the sky and relax in the sun or the shade according to your preference.

You can purchase a day pass or a longer pass for the length of your cruise. A limited number of passes are sold on each sailing. Tip: the Rainforest Room is closed until around 5 on embarkation day, so you won’t typically get a lot of usage on the first day of the cruise. You may find it’s a better deal just to pay day-by-day, or ask if you can buy a shorter pass. The single-day passes for the sea day(s) will go first, followed by the full-cruise passes. A pass for the Castaway Cay day or other port day might be available same day, and could be a good alternative if you’re not interested in that port.

When you want to use the Rainforest, just tell the front desk staff at the spa and they’ll give you a wristband that opens the door to the Rainforest area. They will hold your room key while you are in the Rainforest. You then proceed to the locker room, where you can choose a locker and get a robe and sandals, if desired. A swimsuit must be worn since the Rainforest is mixed-gender.

Towels and drinking water are provided.

The spas on the Disney ships are operated by Steiner, a huge British spa company that runs spas for cruise lines and resorts. The staff do a great job performing the spa treatments, but Steiner trains them to offer product upsells at every reasonable opportunity. The result is that they almost always give cruise passengers a sales pitch on spa products. The products themselves are fine, but they are expensive and getting a sales pitch after your relaxing treatment can be annoying.

You’ll be given a “health form” before your treatment, asking about various health issues. Any issues you write on that form are used to help them sell you stuff (“Oh, I see you have very dry skin. You should try this cream.”). For that reason, unless you have an allergy or injury that directly affects your treatment , we recommend leaving the form as blank as possible .

Some people have tried writing “no sales pitch” on the form, but that is frequently ignored. Here are some other approaches we’ve used with success:

• A polite and friendly “no thank you” when they start showing the products or going through their list of recommendations is our first line of defense. That’s often the end of it! But if they start offering a second sales pitch, we make a concerned/confused face, pause for a moment, and say, again politely, “I’m really not interested, thanks.” The subtext you want to get across is that by not paying attention to your clear and polite “no,” they’re running the risk of affecting your overall satisfaction, with all that implies about things like tips and guest comment cards. You don’t need to make this explicit; the concerned face and second “no” usually does the trick.
• If they start the sales pitch while we are getting a relaxation treatment such as a massage or wrap, we usually just stay silent. We keep our  eyes closed and don’t respond to questions. Usually they quit talking, because it becomes quite awkward for them. But if they persist, we say politely, “Sorry, I’m trying to relax, and silence really helps me with that. Thanks!”
• If we are getting a haircut or pedicure, it’s harder to ignore the sales pitch. So instead we act very enthusiastic about every product they are pushing. Usually they’ll use one or more of the products on us during the service. If they offer samples we take them, with sincere thanks. When we go to check out, there is always a big stack of “suggested” products at the front desk. When they ask us what we’ll be buying, we say “oh, I want to see how the stuff I tried today works out, so I’m not buying anything right now.”
• Remember that no matter what happens, you can always change your mind about the add-on products when you check out. Until you sign the purchase slip, you haven’t purchased anything. Just say, “after thinking it over, I don’t need any products right now. Could you take these off the bill? Thanks.”

Fitness Center

A well-equipped Fitness Center can be accessed through the Spa on all of the ships. It’s usually open from early morning to fairly late – check the Navigator for specific hours. There is no charge to use the Fitness Center. The locker rooms, sauna and showers for the Fitness Center are shared with the Spa. Towels, robes and water are provided, and you can borrow an iPod shuffle if you don’t have your own iPod with you.

You never are expected to add any extra tip over and above the automatic gratuity amounts, which are listed below . You may , if you wish, add more, and you can even adjust certain tips down if you feel it’s warranted. Many people add extra gratuities purely because the service staff on a Disney cruise are extremely helpful and work very hard, but again, no one should ever make you feel like you are required to tip more.

Disney provides suggested tip amounts for the crew members who will assist you throughout the week: your server (takes your food orders for each dinner), assistant server (takes your drink orders at each dinner and delivers the food), head server (in charge of the overall dinner experience, special dietary requests and special occasions), and stateroom host/hostess (takes care of your room). As on all cruise lines, tips are the primary source of income for people working in these positions.

The suggested gratuities for your servers and stateroom host are automatically added to your stateroom bill. If you want to adjust the amount, you can go to Guest Services. Toward the end of the cruise you will be provided with slips indicating the tip amounts, which you can present to your servers during your last dinner on the cruise and leave in your room for your stateroom host. (They will get the money in their accounts whether you give them the slips or not, it’s purely a symbolic way of thanking them for their service. Don’t feel you need to do it if you don’t enjoy that kind of interaction.)

If you are staying in a concierge room, a separate form is provided to add tip for the concierge staff, with a suggested “average” tip amount. You can use your discretion to adjust it up or down based on how much help they provided your family. 

If you dine at Palo, Remy or Enchanté, many people add an additional tip to the per-person charge, though the basic charge is considered by Disney to cover the gratuity.

An automatic gratuity is added to all beverages ordered in bars and lounges; soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and bottled water from room service; and alcoholic beverages/smoothies/bottled water ordered in the dining room. There will also be a line where you can add an additional tip at your discretion.

You can add room service tips to your room bill. Even if your order costs nothing, you’ll be asked to sign a slip, and there is a space for tips on that slip. A dollar or two per item ordered is pretty common, but entirely optional.

You are allowed to give tips to crew members in cash, if you like, and they’re happy to take it in any major currency. If you have a meaningful amount of foreign currency (more than a few dollars worth) after your cruise that you’re unlikely to use anytime in the near future, feel free to leave it for your room host in addition to the automatic gratuity; they’ll be happy to get it.

As the skippers say on the world-famous Jungle Cruise, “You all have been outstanding on this cruise, but now I need you out standing on the dock!” Sadly, your cruise will eventually have to end, and Disney needs to get a few thousand people and their bags off the ship in the space of about 3 hours, so “efficiency” is the word of the day.

A few days before the end of your cruise you should be reminded to check the disembarkation instructions in the Navigator app , and you might get a paper form listing your specific disembarkation instructions. Disembarkation can feel very complicated and rushed, but it’s not that bad once you know how it works.

The first important decision is whether you want Disney to take your big luggage off the ship for you. If you have a lot of bags, or they’re unwieldy, you probably are going to want to have the bags moved for you, but if you can handle your own bags in one trip, that makes things immensely less complicated. These days we always choose to handle our own bags, but there are times we wonder whether it’d be easier to have Disney do it, usually when we’re wrestling our big roller bags down the gangplank. It’s worth trying it both ways if you go on multiple cruises, because you never can tell which one will feel easiest for you.

Whether or not you handle your own bags, you’re supposed to be completely out of your room on the final morning by 8:00 am so they can start cleaning and resetting it for the next guests (sometimes this time can change depending on the disembarkation port – check the sheet they give you or the app to make sure). This can make things logistically complicated, since if you want to do a table-service breakfast, it will be on a fixed schedule based on whether you are on the early or late dinner seating. The first breakfast seating starts early enough to get done before 8:00 am, but the later one does not. So if you plan to do table-service breakfast and you’re on late seating, you will have to take your luggage with you. Most people on late seating line up their bags in the hallway leading to the dining room. Don’t worry, no one will take your bags; your fellow guests are all far too tired. You can take smaller bags into the dining room and park them next to the table as long as they aren’t in the servers’ way. If you are planning an early breakfast in the buffet or you’re having sit-down breakfast on the earlier seating, you can just leave your bags in your room and then come back and retrieve them by 8:00 am.

Option 1: Disney Handles Your Bags

If you decide to have Disney haul your big bags to the terminal, then you’ll need to put most of your bags out the night before (typically by 10:30 pm – check the app to make sure). You need to hang on to at least one or two small bags to hold the stuff you can’t pack early, like toiletries and your pajamas. Make sure not to pack the clothes you’ll need to wear the next morning! You’ll get a set of luggage tags to put on the bags you’re putting out, and there will be a guide showing roughly when each group of bags will be ready to pick up in the terminal. For example, if you have bag tag “Donald Duck”, the sheet might say that your bags will be ready between 8:30-8:45 am. If you need to leave early to catch an flight or something, make sure you’ve got the earliest time they can give you. You can go to Guest Services to change your bag group if needed. On disembarkation morning, they will make periodic announcements about every 15 minutes, as each set of bags gets delivered to the terminal. They ask that you not leave the ship until your bag group gets called.

If you’re out of the room, but they still haven’t called your bag group, you’ll need to find somewhere to wait . In our experience, the lounges in the adult area of the ship are the most likely to have empty seats available, especially the main adult show lounge on the Magic, Wonder, Dream & Fantasy (Fathoms/Azure/Evolution/The Tube). Those are on deck 3, so you can just walk to the atrium when your group is called. On the Wish, there are fewer options on deck 3, so you may end up needing to go to another deck or sit on the floor. On the other hand, if you’re still in the dining room when they call your bag group, there’s not really any harm in waiting until you finish breakfast to disembark, assuming you don’t have transportation waiting for you. Typically they want everyone off by 9:30 am or so, so that’s your hard deadline.

When you get into the terminal, if you’re in a hurry, it’s not a bad idea to ask for a porter’s help. They’re usually lined up in the luggage area with carts, and they know the terminal well and will know if there’s any shortcuts or faster ways to get you into a cab or shuttle. They work for tips, and a typical tip is $1-2 per bag; more if they go above and beyond.

If you booked Disney’s transfers to Walt Disney World or the airport, then the timing is much more fixed. They will assign you a time to get off, and you really need to get off at that time so they can get you on the right bus. Arrange your breakfast plans accordingly.

Option 2: You Handle Your Own Bags

If you’re handling your own bags, there’s not really much you have to do the night before to prepare . Get mostly packed up the night before. Finish packing on the morning of disembarkation, get breakfast if you like, and then just leave the ship. You can leave any time after the ship is cleared, which will be 15-30 minutes after the ship is docked. They won’t necessarily announce to the whole ship that disembarkation has begun, because it’ll happen as early as 6-6:30 in the morning and they don’t want to wake everyone up with an announcement. If you can see that the ship is docked, just head down to deck 3 and wait for them to start letting folks off.

Skip the talks, except for the nature talks on the Alaska cruises, which can be excellent. The shopping talk is just a “rah-rah” for certain shops that are paying a marketing fee, and you might get a few coupons for free (junky) souvenirs. Both the shopping and disembarkation talks are replayed on the television repeatedly. Don’t waste your vacation time attending these lectures in person.

Read additional tips specific to the Disney Dream (which will also apply to the Fantasy) .

So what’s it really like to take a Disney cruise? Here are a few different perspectives on the experience:

• A look at what’s new and different on the Disney Wish , from a preview sailing in July 2022.
• A comparison of taking three cruises on three different ships in a six-month span between March and August 2014. It was rough, but somebody had to do it.
• Taking a cruise on the Disney Fantasy with a baby and a 3 ½-year-old , May 2012.
• First-hand report on the  Disney Fantasy  from March 2012: what’s new and different? See photos and learn more!
•   First impressions of the Disney Dream , from a preview sailing in January 2011.
• In summer 2007, friends of MouseSavers.com Ann and Danilo V wrote a travel blog about taking their 5 children to Europe for the summer. At the end of their trip they took a Disney Mediterranean cruise (10 nights roundtrip from Barcelona) in a Category 3 and a Category 4 stateroom. Then they did the 14-night Transatlantic cruise on the Disney Magic in the Walt Disney Suite!

Disney Cruise Online Check In Process Explained

Are you looking for tips and information on navigating the Disney cruise check in process? The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App really comes in handy while sailing, but it also simplifies the registration and planning process before your trip even begins!

In addition to displaying the really exciting cruise countdown, the DCL Navigator App allows you to view the details of your reservation and book activities for your upcoming Disney cruise.

In this post, I will walk you through the Disney Cruise Line online check in process using the features of the Navigator App. We will discuss what time online check in begins, and I’ll give you tips on how to secure an early port arrival time along with coveted reservations.

So, continue reading below to find out all the tips and hacks you need to know for the Disney Cruise Line online check in process!

Disney Cruise Countdown

Once you download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App, you will be prompted to login to your DCL account. This is where you can create an account or type in your current login information.

The screen should then display the reservation for your upcoming cruise. After clicking on your reservation, you will see a countdown calculator similar to the one pictured above.

This countdown is a super exciting reminder of how many days you have until your cruise. It’s also a really important feature since some important deadlines occur before your cruise embarkation day .

When can you check in?

While on the Disney Cruise Navigator App, you can scroll down below your stateroom information to find the important steps you need to take for planning your Disney cruise. We will go through each of these My Reservations sections below:

My Reservations

In the spot labeled Cruise Essentials , you will find important things like your Disney Cruise Line balance and your reservation information. You will also see the online check in button in this section.

If you are a first time cruiser with Disney Cruise Line, you may check in 30 days prior to your sail date as long as you’ve made your final payment. If you have previously sailed with Disney Cruise Line, the check in days for each Castaway Club level are as follows:

• Silver Members – 33 Days before Sailing
• Gold Members – 35 Days before Sailing
• Platinum Members – 38 Days before Sailing
• Pearl Members – 40 Days before Sailing

What time does Disney cruise online check in start?

Once you arrive at the 30-day mark before your scheduled cruise (or sooner depending on Castaway Club level), you may be wondering what time you can actually complete online check-in for your Disney Cruise Line vacation. Online check-in should open at midnight EST (12:00 am Eastern Standard Time).

What do you need for online check in?

When you are ready to fully complete the Disney cruise check in process, you’ll need to have several items on hand. Below, I will list each of these so that you are prepared once your online check in window opens up.

First, you will need to have your official identification documents handy. We highly recommend cruising with a passport even if it is not necessarily mandated for your itinerary.

Even though many cruises sailing from the United States and back allow U.S. citizens to travel with a birth certificate instead, you will need a passport in the rare (but possible) event you have a medical emergency overseas.

To view a full list of the travel documents required for your sailing, you can check out the DCL website here . During the Disney cruise online check in process, you will need to submit a photo of each passport/birth certificate. Each image should be free from glares and clearly show the information.

Credit Card

You’ll need to assign a credit card to your Disney Cruise Line account. This is the card that you will use onboard when charging things through your Key to the World Card or DisneyBand+. If you need to change the card once onboard, you can visit Guest Services for help.

Flight and Hotel Information

Disney Cruise Line will request that you fill in your pre and post cruise travel information. So, you will want to have your reservation info. for flights and hotels handy to type in.

Photo of Each Passenger

Disney Cruise Line used to take photos of cruisers at the port during your cruise terminal check in process. However, you now need to upload a photo of each person in your travel party. These selfie style photos need to clearly show each passenger’s face above the shoulders in a similar style to a passport or driver’s license photo. (Although, they should not be the same photo that is on your ID.)

Disney Cruise Check in Process

When you are ready to fully complete the Disney cruise check in process, you’ll want to set aside close to an hour (if it’s your first cruise) to give yourself enough time to cover all the parts. I will go over each section of the tedious online check-in process below.

Once your window opens up for checking in, your Navigator App screen will include different sections like Guest Information, Onboard Account, Travel Plans, Port Arrival Time, etc.

You will need to go through each of the tabs to fill out the relevant information. While this can be a time consuming process; once you complete it, Disney saves your information for your next cruise.

I will explain each section in more detail below:

Guest Information

This is the section where you fill in your personal information and your passport/identification info. If you have previously sailed with Disney Cruise Line, this should already be completed for you. If your contact information or your passport information has changed from what is shown on your account, you will need to update it.

↓↓ Visit My Etsy Shop ↓↓

Guests also need to upload a security photo (personal selfie) for each individual in your travel party. In addition, Disney Cruise Line requires guests to upload photos of their citizenship documents (birth certificate, passport, etc.).

Onboard Account

You will need to add a credit card to the Onboard Account section. While on the cruise, DCL charges gratuities and anything extra you choose to purchase to your online account. In this section, you can also choose whether or not to grant charging privileges to your family members.

Since my kids were 6 and 1 during our last sailing, they were not allowed to charge anything to the onboard account. If you have older kids, you can change this option to meet your needs.

Travel Plans

The Travel Plans tab asks for very specific information about your pre/post cruise plans. This includes the name of your hotel, flight information, etc. You can fill this out to the best of your ability during the check-in process. If you don’t yet have all of this information, you can always go back later and correct it. For example, you can choose to arrive by car if you don’t have your flight information yet.

Port Arrival Time (PAT)

Next, you will choose your Port Arrival Time. Once you click on this tab, you will see a list of times available for you to ARRIVE at the port. This is NOT the time that you will board the ship.

For example, if you select a Port Arrival Time of 11:00, that means you plan to show up at the cruise terminal at 11:00. It has been my experience that boarding does not typically begin until at least 11:30, so you shouldn’t expect to be on the ship immediately after arriving for your 11:00 PAT.

It’s also been our experience that if you purchased Disney Cruise Line ground transportation , you will not be prompted to choose an arrival time. Instead, you will be permitted to enter the cruise terminal once the DCL transfer shuttle drops you off at the port.

Cruise Contract and Port Arrival Form

Once you have completed online check in for your Disney cruise, you will be prompted to review the cruise contract. Then, your last step is to print the Port Arrival Form in the bottom tab. You will need this form on embarkation day when you arrive at the cruise terminal.

Note that you can save the Port Arrival Form QR Code to scan on your phone at the port. However, we like to also have a printed copy of the form and prefer to print it as well.

The Port Arrival Form now shows your Muster Station and Boarding Number. (In the past, you did not get this information until you received your Key to the World card in the terminal.)

After choosing your PAT, you can register your child for the kids club appropriate for his/her age. You may also note special needs or dietary restrictions for your child in this section. Additionally, you will need to choose who your child is permitted to disembark the cruise ship with.

Children are not allowed to get off the ship without an adult. However, there may be an adult in a different stateroom with whom your child is permitted to debark. For example, you can choose to allow your child to get off the ship with a grandparent staying in a different stateroom. You may choose to allow this at EVERY port, at just Castaway Cay, or not at all.

More App Features

In addition to the check in process for Disney Cruise Line that we discussed above, the Navigator App is a great resource for additional trip information and tasks.

Cruise Options

In this section of your account, you will see some of the options that were available for you to choose during your Disney cruise booking. This includes your dinner seating time, trip insurance, Disney cruise ground transfers, and special requests.

Note that if you are not happy with your dining time, you can call Disney Cruise Line to ask the cast members to move you to a different seating. If you booked through a travel agent, the agent will need to call to do this. Additionally, you can regularly check the app to see if a more desired seating opens up.

Finally, you can often switch seating times onboard the ship by meeting with crew members in the dining room during the specified changing time. You can find more information in my post: Disney Cruise Dining Rotation Explained .

The next section of your Navigator App displays the itinerary for the cruise you booked. This is where you will see your cruise broken down by day. Some of the important events available onboard will be listed here.

Once you book your activities, you will see them listed in this section as well. You can also click on the Add Activities button on your itinerary to add certain items to your plans.

Disney Cruise Onboard Activities Booking

If you are a first-time cruiser with Disney Cruise Line , you can book some of your cruise activities 75 days before sailing. Under your cruise itinerary on the Navigator App, you will see a section that looks like this:

You can click on each of the categories listed to book cruise activities offered. I will walk you through each of these below.

Disney Port Adventures

When you click on the section for port adventures (aka shore excursions), you will again see your cruise itinerary. Here, you can click on the ports you are scheduled to visit on your cruise. The app then takes you to a page that lists all of the available Disney port adventures at that location.

For example, if your cruise is visiting Castaway Cay , you will see excursions like bicycle rentals, parasailing, fly fishing, etc. After clicking on the port adventure that you want, you will be able to choose the family members that want to take part in that excursion.

Most of the options for port adventures have age restrictions. If you are cruising with a toddler , your available excursions will be narrowed down quite a bit.

The age restrictions are prominently displayed, and you won’t be able to click on the name of any family member not meeting the requirements. Next, you will see the available times for the excursion that you want to select. Choose the time that works best for you, and you’re finished!

Disney Spa & Fitness

When you click on the Spa & Fitness tab, you will be directed to your cruise itinerary. You can then select the day that you would like to book a fitness and spa appointments. Disney Cruise Line offers many activities in this section including facials, massages, manicures, personal training, etc.

Just like the section above, you can choose the activity and time that works best for you!It’s important to note that these appointments come with an additional cost and are not included with your cruise fare.

Onboard Fun

Under Onboard Fun in the Disney Cruise Ling Navigator App, you will find activities like wine tasting, Royal Tea, and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.

The princess meet and greet and the Frozen Gathering are also located in this section. These two events are free on your Disney cruise, but you must book a time to attend the character meet and greets because they are so popular.

After clicking on the activity, it’s super simple to choose a day and available time to attend the event. It will then show up in the itinerary section of the app.

When you get on the ship, you just show up at the meet and greet during your scheduled time slot. The cast member at the character meet should have your name on the list.

Adult Dining and Nursery Times

These two sections work the same way as the above activities. Here, you can select the date that is appealing to you. You will then be directed to choose a time for your specified activity, but you should note that you do not pay ahead of time. So, once you book your appointment, it should show up on your itinerary without any further steps.

Final Thoughts on the Disney Cruise Online Check-In Process

The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App and the Disney Cruise Line website are really helpful tools to use for online check-in. Whether your travel plans include leaving from Port Canaveral, Miami, or another cruise port, the Disney cruise online check in system works the same.

The only difference you may find is that port arrival times can vary depending on the port you are sailing from. We highly suggest downloading the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App prior to online check in since it allows you to easily access your reservation and book cruise activities. 

Once you are on the cruise ship, the Navigator App has even more helpful features, including texting! Once you complete each section in the app as described above, you should see a message that your checkin is pending .

Disney Cruise Line will review the information you entered along with your uploaded documents before confirming that your checkin is complete. You will then be ready to set sail to enjoy your cruise vacation.

We hope you have a magical time onboard the cruise ship and at your ports of call!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Thank you for such detailed information! I have two rooms to get checked in…do you think I could do both at the same time, just on two different devices? Also, if I leave travel info blank to start (to fill back in later) would I be able to still get a PAT?

I have never checked in for multiple rooms with Disney Cruise Line, but I linked my two rooms on a different cruise line in order check in for both. I just had to toggle back and forth between the two rooms. You will need to fill out the travel info in order to advance to the next page. But, I would fill out the least amount of info as possible in order to advance. Then, I would go back later and correct it all. For example, you could choose the cash option instead of typing in credit card information. And you could select arriving by car rather than typing out all of your flight information. Just don’t forget to go back and update information later. Have a great trip!

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Back to the Mouse

Disney cruise line boarding process.

You’ve booked your Disney Cruise, paid for it, scheduled your excursions, booked mixology classes, and got that highly prized cabana.  What now?  It’s time to get on board!  We will walk you through the process! 

There are many ways to arrive at the Disney Cruise Terminal (we have examples for Port Canaveral and Miami).  You can arrive by Disney transfer, RideShare (Taxi/Uber/Lift/Limo), or private car.   In the case of Disney Transfer, your luggage will be taken care of for you.  If you arrive through some other means, there are luggage porters out front that will take your luggage and make sure it gets on the ship. You do have to make sure you have the Disney Cruise Line luggage tags on your bags. Your name and room number are on these tags. Once you hand the bags to the luggage porter, the next time you will see them will be on the ship.  

After you have dropped off your luggage, you will proceed to the cruise terminal itself.  At this point, the cruise terminal may or may not be open.  We try to arrive a little bit before our port arrival time (we always select the earliest one available).  I like to be in the cruise terminal as early as possible so we can check for available upgrades and get on board early so our vacation can begin.

Once you are at the entrance of the cruise terminal, you will encounter a crew member or port terminal employee that will want to check your cruise documentation.  They are looking for the booklet that Disney Cruise Line sent you .  They will also verify that your citizen documentation matches up to your cruise documentation.   This will be a passport for non-United States Citizens (if leaving from the United States).  If you are a United States citizen leaving from a United States port and returning to the same port (a closed loop cruise), you can use some sort of government picture id with your birth certificate.  A passport will always work for a United States citizen. 

Items prohibited on board ship and on Castaway Cay .  

• Firearms, ammunition, knives (including dive knives), swords, daggers and any other types of weapons
• Toy guns or other replicas of firearms and weapons
• Highly flammable liquids and combustible substances
• Liquid oxygen
• Non-prescribed controlled substances, illegal drugs, medically prescribed and synthetic marijuana
• Hookah pipes
• Power tools and toolboxes (except those utilized by vendors providing services)
• Potentially dangerous sporting equipment, including baseball and cricket bats, hockey and lacrosse sticks, pool cues, ski poles, fishing gear and archery equipment. (Golf clubs are permitted as long as they are stored inside your stateroom.)
• Scuba equipment such as tanks, spears, spear guns, slings, dive knives, pry bars, and underwater scooters. (Masks and snorkels are allowed)
• Remote-controlled helicopters, airplanes, drones or similar devices
• Kites, balloons, surfboards, wave boards, inflatable floats, pool noodles, inflatable pools and wagons
• Bicycles, scooters, skateboards, hoverboards, inline & roller skates, any footwear with wheels (i.e. Heely’s type shoes) and Segways, or other wheeled mobility devices with less than 3 wheels and devices that cannot maintain stability and balance when stopped, unpowered or unoccupied. Training wheels or similar modifications are not permitted.
• Wheeled transport devices other than those required by Guests with disabilities
• Please note: A limited number of approved bottle warmers and bottle sterilizers are available upon request through Guest Services
• All ships offer self-service laundry facilities with irons and ironing boards. Portable fans are permitted in your stateroom. However, you must contact Guest Services to have the Chief Electrician approve your fan.
• Candles and incense
• DVD, VCR, and Blu-ray players
• Gaming systems such as Playstation®, Xbox and Nintendo Wii (due to compatibility issues with the stateroom TVs)
• Musical instruments
• Ice chests and coolers , except for those permitted for storing medications, baby food and items related to dietary restrictions
• Homemade, precooked or perishable foods or open food containers. Also, please refer to our guidelines on restricted food and beverages
• Over-the-door hanging organizers
• Metal detectors
• Fireworks or pyrotechnics
• Seasonal and/or celebratory light bulb strings
• Extension cords or surge protectors

Once you are through security, it is time to get your Key to the World card .  There will usually be lines for first time cruisers, Silver/Gold Castaway Club members, and another line for Platinum Castaway Club Members/Concierge Guests. 

At the desk, you will turn over your cruise documentation along with your citizenship documentation.  The person at the desk will get a picture to associate with your key to the world card.  Your citizenship documentation will also be scanned and given back to you.  You will receive your Key to the World card. 

If you are a repeat cruiser on Disney Cruise Line, you will receive a lanyard as well. 

The last item you receive will be your boarding group number card.

Once you have all your items, you can then proceed to the seating area to wait for your boarding number to be called.  If you arrive early, the cruise terminal can definitely start to fill up with everyone waiting.  You should be able to find a character greeting or two (usually Mickey Mouse is one of them) to keep you busy.  There are restrooms, but may not be very much in terms of food or beverages (although there are water fountains).

Eventually, Disney will announce a family of the day and allow them to board “first” – although by this time, the concierge guests have already boarded the ship behind the scenes.  Once the family of the day boards, they will begin to announce boarding numbers.  If you have the announced boarding number (or lower), you can show your boarding card to the crew member and they will send you towards the ship.

Note:  This article was originally published over at Rope Drop Radio , my favorite Disney Podcast.  You can subscribe to Rope Drop Radio via iTunes.   Derek and Doug are two dads who love Disney.  Their goal is help you navigate all things Disney from the parks to the cruise. They want to share tips and tricks, travel plans, and must see’s to help you have an amazing Disney trip!  Make sure to follow them on Facebook and Twitter as well!

If you have enjoyed this article, please be sure to check out our Disney Cruise Line information page , which has useful hints in addition to our cruise trip reports!

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Disney Cruises: The Boarding Process at Port Canaveral

May 20, 2016 by Disney Cruise Mom 25 Comments

One question I get from readers a lot involves the process of boarding the ship, so this post is long overdue!  Since most Disney cruises leave from Port Canaveral, I will describe the details of boarding a Disney cruise in Port Canaveral.  I really wish that I had cruised out of every port that Disney cruises from and thus provide you with first hand details of each, but sadly this is not the case.  Maybe someday.

First of all, there are several different ways you can arrive at the Disney terminal at Port Canaveral.  They are:

DCL transfers from the Orlando Airport (MCO)

The DCL buses run continuously from the airport to Port Canaveral only the morning of embarkation.  As soon as a bus is full, it will leave.  If you arrive at MCO the morning of the cruise, or have stayed the night before at the MCO Hyatt (or a different hotel but then get a ride back to MCO in the morning), then you will go to the DCL transfer desk at MCO (level 1, side B – map here ) once it opens, show your documentation, and they will show you to a bus.  If you have any luggage with you, the cast members will take it from you (except for carry-ons) and it will be sent to the ship.  Make sure your cruise luggage tags that you received in the mail are attached!  Any carry-ons will be placed underneath the bus and you will get them back after you step off the bus at the port.  If you have flown in that morning, hopefully you took advantage of the Disney luggage service and your bags are being taken from the airport to the cruise port for you.  If so, you can skip baggage claim and proceed straight to level 1, side B after leaving the plane.  It may help to follow the signs to Ground Transportation.  Once you arrive at Port Canaveral, you will simply get off the bus and head to the security line.

Note:  I am fan of staying at the Hyatt MCO the night before the cruise and using their luggage service to transport our luggage straight from our hotel room to the ship.  I have a post dedicated to that process here .  You must use DCL transfers to do this.

Drive Your Own Car (or a rental)

If you drive your own car to the port you can either 1) park at the cruise terminal 2) park at an off-site parking lot, or 3) park at a hotel that provides cruise parking and a shuttle service to the port.

If you park your car at the Disney terminal , you will drive into the port area where a security guard will check IDs and cruise documents.  Then you will proceed to the luggage drop off area where you will temporarily park your car and hand off your luggage (again, minus carry-ons) to a porter.  It is customary to tip the porters $1-2 per bag.  Again, make sure your cruise luggage tags are attached.  Next, you will drive your car into the garage (or the uncovered premium lot, your choice) and pay as you enter.  Find a parking space and then proceed to the terminal building (just a short walk away) and get into the security line.  You can read my full post with all of the details about parking your car at Port Canaveral here .

If you park your car at an off-site parking lot (or are returning a rental car), then you will simply catch the provided shuttle to the port after parking or returning the car.  The shuttle will drop you off at the luggage drop area next to the terminal where you will hand your luggage to a porter and then proceed into the terminal.  

Tip:  before you park/return the car, drive to the terminal and drop off your party and luggage.  Then you just have 1 person, and no luggage, catching the shuttle to the port.  Do the same thing in reverse after the cruise.  I have seen large families with a ton of luggage on shuttles before, and they never look happy.  It can also add time to your commute if you have to wait for another (empty) shuttle that will fit your entire party.

If you are leaving your car at a hotel and using the hotel shuttle system, then the hotel shuttle will drop off all passengers and luggage at the luggage drop area.  When we did this, the shuttle van pulled a trailer behind it for the luggage.  When we arrived at the terminal, the shuttle driver removed all of the luggage from the trailer and set it on the curb for the porters to take.  We watched this all happen and saw that our luggage was taken, but never really had an opportunity to tip the porter since it was a large group situation.

 Private Transportation (Car Service)

If you have hired a car service (or taxi) to bring you to the port, then your driver should proceed straight to the luggage drop curb after entering the terminal area.  There, you and your luggage will exit the vehicle and you will hand off your luggage (minus carry-ons) to a porter.  Once again, it is customary to tip the porters $1-2 per bag.  You should then proceed to the terminal and enter the line for security.

What Time to Arrive

Now let’s talk about times.  I have never seen it officially in writing, but the general consensus seems to be that the Disney terminal building opens at 10:30 am, but porters will be ready to take your luggage as early as 10:00 am.  If you arrive on a DCL bus prior to 10:30, they will let you in the terminal building even though it is not officially open yet.  Otherwise, you will have to stand outside and wait for them to unlock the doors at 10:30.  However, Disney has attempted to stagger the arrival of passengers so as not to have super long lines for security and check-in.  When you check in for your cruise online, you will be asked to choose a port arrival time (PAT).  I suggest arriving during your PAT and not trying to get there early unless you have a good reason.  If you are arriving on a DCL transfer from the airport, this may be out of your control and that is ok.  But, if possible, I would stick to your PAT as closely as possible to avoid standing in long lines.  Note that concierge guests are not prompted to choose a PAT during their online check in and may arrive whenever they like.

Checking in at the Terminal

Once you arrive at the terminal, you will first go through the security line.  Your travel documents will be checked, your carry-on luggage will be scanned/searched ( read about the rules for carrying on alcohol here ), and you will walk through a metal detector.  After that, you will proceed to the line at the check-in counters.  There are separate lines for first time cruisers and returning cruisers (although returning cruisers may go to whichever line is shorter) and there are always cast members around to direct you.  If you are sailing concierge, there is a separate area for you all the way at the back of the terminal on the right.

After you get through the security line you will check in at the counter.  They will take your photo, check your documents, issue your room keys, and have you fill out a health questionnaire.  If you are a returning cruiser you should receive a lanyard.  If you are a first time cruiser and would like a lanyard, you need to bring one with you or buy one onboard.  At the end of the check in process, you will receive a card with a boarding number written on it.  Once boarding begins, they will continually announce boarding group numbers in chronological order.  When they call your group number, you may board the ship at that point or at any time after.

Once you get checked in, you can either visit the supervisor’s desk to inquire about a room upgrade ( read all about that process here ) or find a place to sit and wait for your boarding group to be called.  While you are waiting, there will be characters making appearances.

Boarding the Ship

Once your boarding number is called, you will proceed through the Mickey head where they will scan your card and give you the opportunity to have a boarding photo taken.  If you don’t want to stop for the photo, you may keep walking and go straight onto the ship.  At the door to the ship, a cast member will ask your “family name”, i.e. last name, and then will announce you over the ship’s speakers as you board.  There will be a line of cast members clapping for you and it is really a nice way to start the cruise.

Whew!  That was a lot of information to cover and I hope I didn’t forget anything.  If I did, please email me or leave your question in the comments below and I will do my best to answer it.

If you are interested in reading all about the process of disembarkation , you can read my Guide to Disembarkation in Port Canaveral here .

As always, don’t forget to like me on Facebook ( click here ) and follow me on Pinterest ( click here ) for all of the latest Disney Cruise Mom Blog updates!

July 18, 2016 at 8:46 am

Next month, I am taking my family to Port Canaveral to see some space stuff and go on the Disney cruise. We will be leaving our youngest son with my parents at a hotel there while we are out on the ship and so I really like your idea about using the hotel shuttle system. However, I will probably try to tip the porters before they go off with my luggage so that I can make sure that they get something for doing that.

July 18, 2016 at 11:41 am

I agree that is a great idea! Just be ready ahead of time because they move pretty quick!

August 19, 2016 at 12:05 pm

hello, Im staying at a disney world resort before our cruise is there any transportation from the resort to the ship

August 19, 2016 at 12:24 pm

Yes, there is a bus that will take you from the resort to the ship. You (or your travel agent) can contact DCL ahead of time to reserve it. I think it is $35 per person. Or, you could arrange for a private car service to take you. It will depend on how many people are in your party as to which one is cheaper. Also, note that the shuttle bus will get you to the port much later than a car service, so if it is important to you to arrive at the port early, a car service would be the better option.

March 4, 2017 at 9:13 am

This health questionair, is there any reason they won’t let you cruise? What is it for?

March 4, 2017 at 1:32 pm

They are really only concerned with people boarding the ship who have norovirus as they obviously want to do everything they can to prevent an outbreak. The form asks if anyone in your party has had fever AND vomiting within the last 24 hours. I have no first hand experience with this, but I have heard that if you say yes, the person will be evaluated by a nurse and then either be denied boarding or allowed to board but be confined to their cabin for a certain amount of time.

March 25, 2017 at 3:08 pm

Is there somewhere specific to go to ask to be changed to early dining?

March 25, 2017 at 4:16 pm

Hi Beth! I don’t think it is always the same place. I think it can change based on ship and sailing. When you check in at the cruise terminal, you will be given the first day’s daily navigator. Somewhere in there, usually on the front page, it will tell you where on the ship the dining requests will be taken. I suggest going there first thing after boarding to maximize your chances of switching.

April 26, 2017 at 11:09 am

Hi We are cruising in July 2017 which I assume will be a very busy time for cruising being that its summer. Do we need to prepay for the parking garage or is it pretty big and doesn’t completely fill up?

Thanks so much.

April 26, 2017 at 11:59 am

I have never heard of the garage filling up, even in the summer so you should be fine. You can always prepay though if it would cause you less stress!

October 15, 2017 at 10:25 pm

I thought I read in one of your posts that you have used a car service and you were pleased with it. If so do you have the information so that I may look into using them for our upcoming February Cruise? Thank you so much love your blog!!!

October 16, 2017 at 7:39 am

Hi Jackie! We used Happy Limo for a town car to take us from the Orlando airport to a hotel in Port Canaveral. They were great! I highly recommend them!

March 22, 2018 at 11:06 pm

We have a PAT of 10:45. What time does actual ship boarding begin?

March 23, 2018 at 8:20 am

It usually begins between 11:30-12:00. There have been a few times I have heard that boarding was delayed more than that, but it’s not typical. You can reasonably expect to be on the ship by noon.

April 3, 2018 at 3:26 pm

Thank you so much for all of this knowledge sharing. My question is in regards to PAT. During my online check-in, it did not prompt me to choose a time. Is this because we are taking Disney transfer from MCO?

April 3, 2018 at 3:43 pm

Yes, that is probably why. People using the DCL transfers are let into the terminal building right when they arrive, so they don’t need to choose a PAT. Platinum and concierge guests don’t either since they always get to board first.

June 13, 2018 at 11:28 am

We are bringing our own mobility scooter / ECV. How will this impact our arrival, check in, and embarkation? Can I drop off my wife and assemble the scooter for her when we drop off our luggage? (we will meet after I park the car) We have an early PAT. Thank you.

June 20, 2018 at 9:46 am

I have no personal experience with this, but from what I understand, it should work exactly as you described. Here is a link with some really good general info about ECVs and the ship: https://www.disboards.com/threads/ecv-for-disney-cruise.3592218/

July 29, 2018 at 9:35 pm

How much of the waiting time is outside in the sun vs. inside the terminal? My PAT is 10:45 but I was told if I waited until after 11:00 the line is shorter and there would be less “outside time”.

July 30, 2018 at 8:30 am

Hi Lauren! It varies each time, but I would guess that the outside part of the line is gone by about 11:00. The doors usually open about 10:30, and depending on how many people are lined up outside, that’s my best guess for how long it would probably take for those people to get through security. I agree, arriving at 11:00 should pretty much eliminate the chance of you waiting outside. But, there are 2 outside lines/entrances to the terminal: the one on the ground floor which can be in the sun, and one on the 3rd level of the parking garage which is always under a cover and shaded. To get into this line, if you are not parking your car in the garage, you would have to take the parking garage elevator up to level 3. I hope this helps!

July 30, 2018 at 9:51 am

Thank you very much!

August 12, 2018 at 2:33 pm

Can you tell me anything helpful for wheelchair accessible parking, registration etc. ?

August 12, 2018 at 3:24 pm

Hi Lori! All I know is that there are accessible parking spaces in the lots and garage. If it is helpful, you can drop people and/or a wheelchair off at the curb, and then go park the car and meet back up with your group. We do this all the time.

July 20, 2019 at 10:43 am

So if we take all of our luggage with us to the DCL buses do they then take it onto the ship for us? Or do we have to grab all of our luggage off the DCL buses and take it to luggage drop off?

July 21, 2019 at 5:28 pm

Hi Amber! If you have your luggage with you when you arrive at the loading area for the DCL buses at MCO, they will take everything that has a DCL luggage tag on it (or provide you with tags if needed) and put it on a luggage truck, drive it to the ship, and then place it outside your stateroom door. If you have carry on items that you want to keep with you when boarding the ship, then those go underneath the bus and then you get them back when you get to the terminal.

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A First Look at Disney Cruise Line’s Revised Online Check-In Process

August Disney Cruise Line sailings are on the horizon (at least as of publication), and guests are entering the 30-day online check-in window for their scheduled voyages. That’s right, you can check-in for your Disney Cruise 30-days prior which is different from the tiered activity booking window based on your Castaway Club Status… I forgot, and while I was prepared to share my experience last night I was quickly reminded of the 30-days so we booked our onboard activities and called it a night.

Thankfully, a friend was actually hitting the 30-day window last night, and offered to share his experience in the event we had different screens based on our Castaway Club statues… Well, kudos to Eddie for saving the day since I completely forgot about the 30-day window for the check-in process.

When you hit that 30-day window and you’ve paid in full, begin the check-in process by filling out cruise documents, registering the kids for youth clubs and selecting a port arrival time, as you’ll need one before you make your way to the cruise terminal. The process begins with you completing the guest information details.

This was the only spot where the process had some issues. The upload photo feature was not working, but Eddie reported he was able to use his webcam to take a photos to complete this section. This could be a browser issue specific to Safari, or just one of those things that still needs some work behind the scenes.

Port Arrival Time

The current earliest time to chose for port arrival was 1:00 PM which placed you in boarding group 3. Until we hear from more readers, it is unclear, but I suspect boarding groups 1 and 2 may be reserved for concierge and Platinum Castaway Club members. The time however, will likely stick around for a while as the resumption of cruise operations roll out as there will undoubtedly be extra sanitation measures required between guest debarking and the embarking passengers. Alternatively, with the new online check-in process and the uploading of travel documents and security photos, we may just get to enter the terminal and if all is in order, walk directly on the ship beginning at 1:00 PM.

At the end of the process, you are provided the Port Arrival Form which the ability to add to a mobile wallet.

Below is a look at the mobile wallet complete with QR code which will surely speed up the port arrival process.

Following the online check-in, it appears you will receive an email from Disney Cruise Line confirming your completed online check-in with a note that they will review the information and will contact you by email to let you know if you are all set to sail, or if they require additional information.

Have you gone through the new online check-in process? What did you think?

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38 Replies to “A First Look at Disney Cruise Line’s Revised Online Check-In Process”

Our family is checked in the August 9th sailing. We are taking the Disney bus transportation to the port, so weren’t given a time versus picking one. They have assigned us to group 2. Not that we really know what that means at this point, but that is what we were given!

Are you either platinum or concierge status? That may explain your group 2. How exciting to be checked in!

Nothing about a vaccination card?

that’s for the 15 day check in for safe passage

We just got checked in for our August 9th cruise!!!!!

Scott – Do you know if you can use a copy of your passport photo to satisfy the photo upload process?

Based on the the the wording –> “cannot be the same photo used on any of the identification documents”, I’d say no. This is the photo they’d typically take with the hand held web cams at the check-in desk at the terminal. Sounds to me they’d prefer a recent photo.

We wonder if DCL will still mail out the cruise booklets? Perhaps this new process eliminate the booklets, we always look forward to those in the mail.

Thanks for notification new checkin is live, very similar to previous online checkin. Fingers crossed we will be sailing again soon.

We were on one of the DCL ships when the Captain made the announcement that when we reached port in a few days all cruise including DCL were being suspended. Very surreal experience! DCL had notified us 2 days before boarding that we could cancel without penalty by just calling a number by the day before sailing. The ship seemed to be about 65% full from normal. Several other passengers said they had tried to cancel but the phone line was busy, so they hoped the ship wouldn’t be crowded. Everything went as normal, there was no issues with our ship but news reports said after the fact but there was with the cruise from NO that went thru PC.

As we lined up to board our ship, they took temperatures and did pull several kids in front of us over for high temps. We had seen them running around while waiting for their time to board. The temp check (contractors) allowed the very distraught boys to wait (under observation) for a few minutes before rechecking their temps. We later saw them on board and all they had needed was a few minutes to cool off after all the running around.

It was hard leaving the ship knowing all the crew members were facing some level of uncertainity. Also there were no people outside the terminal waiting to board the next cruise. We had been notified by our employers the we had to work from home quarteened for 2 weeks because we had “been on a cruise ship!” before returning to the office. Grocery shelves were bare, no toilet tissue, etc. The world had drastically changed while we were on a cruise ship. One year and four months later we’re still working remotely.

Really looking forward to walking through the cruise ship portal so we can return back to the world we left mid-March 2020. Safe and Happy Sailing everyone!

For those of you going on 8/9 cruise, I am super happy for you! I hope it goes well and that we can safely resume sailing in a way that doesn’t shut the place down again. I am pulling for you as we want to go on our cruise later this year.

I meant to include that… I’m just silver!

They stopped mailing the booklets a while ago. For my 2019 cruise we just got an envelope with our luggage tags

When signing up for kids’ clubs, is it as it’s always been, or are they requiring you select specific days and times?

Do we still get to book onboard activities and cabanas at 120 days out for platinum even if we can’t check in until 30 days?

Yes. I’m booked on an October cruise and I was able to book onboard activities and port adventures last month (120 days out).

So, can you use the mobile wallet card/QR code as your Port Arrival Form, or do you still need to print out, sign and bring the form with the bar code at the top, as you did pre-COVID?

Sounds like a very similar check in process as per the UK Staycation cruises. They used a separate company called prenetics to oversee the proof of vaccination (Over 18s), and proof of negative PCR test (under 18s). Though arent I correct in saying that these US cruises dont need proof?

That is currently specific to Florida sailings, but there are workarounds.

We don’t know yet, DCL hasn’t said anything about the USA cruises.

It’ll be interesting to see.To me, it makes sense, however It seems to be a more politically sensitive/contentious topic in the states (at least that is how it is portrayed to us Brits in the media)

Hi, has anyone gotten their luggage tags for the 8/9 cruise? We haven’t gotten ours yet.

What time does check-in start? is it midnight eastern?

Thanks! My window is next week!

what are the cruise protocols, hope no mask requirements on the ship, compared to Carnival, mask not required

These details have not been announced by DCL for U.S. sailings.

What about those who do not wish to upload pictures?

While I do not know for sure, I suspect, you will need to go to a designated check-in line at the port to have the same photo taken.

We checked in for a Disney Magic At Sea UK cruise last week…. it took 7bhiurs ti check in 3 rooks because of the uploading photo issue. We used chrome,;safari, Samsung Internet and Internet explorer…. it was a long day!

Thanks. I realize I will have to sacrifice getting an earlier time slot for boarding, but I just do not have the ability to upload copies of documents or photos. Someone in a fb group mentioned that they didn’t think there was an option for those in my position. In the past we were able to type in our id numbers.

Even pre-pandemic I was given the option to not upload documents/photos on RCCL when they had already had the options in place for those who wanted faster check in.

Do you know someone who could help with that, maybe with a cell phone or with a web cam? Even if they could take the picture and email it to you, it might work that way.

Thank you Beth. I am just not sure I want to send photos of my documents over the internet.

Thank you for posting these screenshots, as they provide far more detail than what Disney is providing to us (even as a TA). I heard the photos have to be JPG; is that true?

Is it possible to upload photos at a later time, or is it required to go to the next step? Looking to focus on PAT and kid club reservations and get that done.

I just checked in for the Thanksgiving week cruise from Miami. The preview was a great help. One item I didn’t have prepared was picture of the passport. The form would suggest it is optional, but the process would not complete without it. FYI, I signed in the first hour of 30 days prior and have a 10:30 arrival and group 3 boarding. My daughter completed her checkin about 6 hours later and has an 11:00 checkin and group 6 boarding. We received the email and completed onboard activity booking but the status is still pending. I expect they are swamped with everyone signing in at 30 days

I don’t have those screens and my 30 day opened today at midnight. I was up until 4am trying to check in and I still cannot check in. It’s been paid in full for months and now I’m on an 81 min. hold with Disney to try and find a solution.

You may be a day early. This happened to me, and I realized my countdown was showing 30 days, but in reality it was still over 30.# days. At the next midnight, it worked.

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Port Canaveral Disney Cruise Terminal Boarding Process

If you are taking a Disney Cruise more than likely it will be out of Port Canaveral. You might find the entire Disney Cruise Port Canaveral boarding process a bit overwhelming if you haven’t been to the terminal before.

There are a lot of lines, and a ton of people, and the last thing you want to do is to be stressed out as you are embarking on your magical vacation because you don’t know what to expect.

Being prepared is one way to make the Disney Cruise boarding process a little easier.

Everything You Need to Know about Taking a Disney Cruise from Port Canaveral

Port canaveral parking.

If you are planning on parking your car at Port Canaveral , you are going to want to make sure that you are prepared for the cost and factor that into your cruise budget. Cost is on average $17 a vehicle per day.

You do not need to pay in advance of your trip, just pay to park at the cruise terminal’s designated parking area.

If you don’t want to pay the hefty fee for Port Canaveral Parking another option is to park off-site and be shuttled to Port Canaveral. This is a much less expensive method and the one we personally use EVERYTIME we cruise out of Port Canaveral.

You can park your car at ParkPort Canaveral , located at 500 Thurm Boulevard, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920. If you park for the duration of your cruise, you can receive shuttle service to Port Canaveral and pay per day.

Luggage Collection at Terminal Gate

Once you park or are transported to the Cruise terminal, you will unload your luggage and hand them over (if you choose) to a luggage attendant.

When you received your cruise documents, you would have been given paper luggage tags for your belongings. Be sure to tag each of your bags and make sure that your cabin number is visible.

Make sure all your bags are securely fastened so the contents don’t fall out.

Want to bring your own alcohol on board?

You can bring alcohol with you, but be sure you follow the Disney Cruise line Alcohol policy . If you don’t, you might be wasting money having it thrown away before you even get to enjoy it.

Can you carry your own luggage on board?

Yes, you may carry your own bags. We found that if you are arriving after 1pm that you are better off bringing your luggage on board with you.

This way, you can go straight to your room with your bags rather than waiting (sometimes hours) for your bags to arrive.

Inside the Port Canaveral Disney Cruise Terminal

Once you enter the actual terminal building, you will find that the Disney Cruise Terminal is sectioned off into different areas and you will want to make sure you take your time when you arrive to familiarize yourself with where you are and where you need to go.

The first line will be for the check-in process and this is relatively painless.

The main thing to remember is to keep your family with you (each person in your party will need to be photographed).

At this time, you will be given your stateroom key cards, lanyards, and a Cruise Navigator that gives you show times, activities on board the ship and other information.

You will then wait until your cruise boarding time is called to leave the terminal and get on the ship!

While you are Waiting to Board the Cruise Ship

If you have your camera, there will be an opportunity for your family to take a picture with Mickey before boarding. This line will form in the center of the terminal.

There will be plenty of times to pose with Mickey on the ship , so if you don’t have time, don’t worry. Mickey is on the ship and there will be MANY times available for you to have your picture taken with everyone’s favorite mouse.

If you collect Disney Pressed Pennies, there is a Pressed Penny machine in the terminal. We loved those pressed pennies and this is the only place where you can get a Disney Cruise pressed penny!

If you have children and are planning to use the Kids Club , you will find a registration station located in the far right corner.

Here, you will register your children for the kid programs and they will be given a MagicBand similar to the ones you get at the Disney World parks.

This can also be done aboard the ship, but some find it nice to go ahead and get it out of the way. If you are in need of a bathroom or area to change into your swimwear before boarding the ship, you will find restrooms located to the right as you enter the terminal area.

Boarding the Disney Cruise Ship

Once you pass through the large Mickey Mouse ears, you enter a hallway with another picture opportunity.  This isn’t a picture with Mickey, but with a backdrop showing the Disney Cruise ship. 

Here is a little Disney Cruise Secret: The line for this is LONG. If you move to the right, you will be able to bypass this completely and go straight to the ship!

When you board the ship, a cast member will greet you and ask for your party’s name and if you are celebrating a special event. They will announce your event and your family’s arrival once you board.

Once Onboard Your Disney Cruise Ship

Depending on the time you board your Disney Cruise, you may have to wait before going to your stateroom.

If it is after 1:30, you can go straight to your room and see if your luggage has arrived. If not, you can go straight to the lunch buffet or spend time at the pool. 

If you didn’t already wear your swimsuit or change at the terminal, you can change in the bathrooms near the pool.

Sail Away Party

Later in the day (usually around 4pm), there will be a Sailing Away Party and you will want to make sure that you attend!

Overall, the boarding process for Disney Cruise is pretty basic, but when you walk in, you can very easily get lost in all the lines. I hope these little pointers help to make your transition from terminal to ship a little easier!

Need a Place to Stay in Port Canaveral Before Your Disney Cruise?

Those looking for a hotel to stay the night before (or after) your cruise, consider the Radisson in Cape Canaveral . Not only is it a nice hotel that is close to the port, it has on-site cruise parking through ParkPort Canaveral mentioned above!

You can book a Cruise package where you can stay at the hotel and then leave your car during the cruise (and get a shuttle to Port Canaveral).

Another option is to stay in nearby Cocoa Beach. This beach town is just a few miles south of Cape Canaveral and definitely worth a visit if you are planning to stay in the area prior or after your cruise.

There are plenty of things to do in Cocoa Beach, but even if you just want a great beach day, it is well worth the trip.

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Monday 27th of November 2017

3 families going on the Dream. Nana and I are platinum castaway club members. Kids families are first time cruisers. Can they check in with us at the platinum desk?

Gretchen Schott

Sunday 18th of June 2017

Thank you for this! We leave in 4 weeks for our first cruise and I was a bit apprehensive about what to expect. This was clear and made me feel excited to go.

Tuesday 25th of July 2017

Yay! I am so glad to hear this. Have a magical trip!

Thursday 18th of August 2016

I have ordered for a motorized wheelchair to be delivered to the ship I'm just not sure what to get at once I get in the terminal

When you check in, let the agent know that you have one reserved and she should be able to tell you where to go or they will bring it to you.

Monday 17th of November 2014

Are the ID bands used on the ship the Magic Bands? We are doing land and sea so we have ordered customized Magic Bands. I am just unsure if they will be used both places or just on land.

Wednesday 19th of November 2014

MagicBands are only good at the park.

Angela @Little Blue's Room

Monday 21st of July 2014

Thank you so much for taking the time to post this information! My family will be going on the Dream in October and this is our first cruise so this information is a diamond jewel! :-)

Tuesday 22nd of July 2014

You are going to have a fantastic trip! We just love the Dream!

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

What Is The Earliest Boarding Time For Disney Cruise

Published: December 20, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Ranique Rooney

• Travel Essentials & Accessories
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Embarking on a Disney Cruise is a magical experience that takes guests on a journey filled with enchantment, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, one question that often arises is: what is the earliest boarding time for a Disney Cruise?

A Disney Cruise offers a unique blend of entertainment, dining, relaxation, and exploration, all set against the backdrop of some of the most breathtaking destinations in the world. From sailing through the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean to exploring the glaciers of Alaska, Disney Cruises cater to families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a truly exceptional vacation experience.

Understanding the boarding process and knowing when you can board the ship is crucial to making the most of your Disney Cruise experience. Whether you want to start your adventure early or simply settle in before the ship sets sail, the earliest boarding time plays a significant role in your vacation plans.

In this article, we will explore the factors that determine the earliest boarding time for a Disney Cruise, as well as tips on how to ensure you board the ship as soon as possible. So, if you’re ready to set sail on a magical journey, let’s dive into the world of Disney Cruises and discover the secrets of early boarding!

What is a Disney Cruise?

A Disney Cruise is a unique vacation experience that blends the enchantment of Disney with the luxury and excitement of a cruise. Disney Cruise Line, established in 1996, has become renowned for its exceptional service, immersive storytelling, and unforgettable entertainment onboard its fleet of ships.

These magnificent vessels are designed with families in mind, offering something for everyone. From elaborate Broadway-style shows and character meet-and-greets to thrilling water slides and world-class dining, a Disney Cruise promises a vacation filled with magic and adventure.

One of the standout features of a Disney Cruise is the attention to detail and personalized service. From the moment you step onboard, you are greeted by friendly cast members who go above and beyond to create a memorable experience for you and your loved ones. The ships are adorned with iconic Disney characters, themed venues, and enchanting decor, transporting guests into a world of fantasy and wonder.

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of itineraries to stunning destinations all around the world, including the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, and more. Along with breathtaking ports of call, the ships themselves are destinations in their own right, offering a wealth of activities and amenities to keep guests of all ages entertained throughout their voyage.

Whether you want to lounge by the pool, indulge in gourmet cuisine, participate in exciting onboard activities, or relax at the tranquil spa, a Disney Cruise caters to your every desire. The ships feature expansive decks for sunbathing, children’s clubs for young cruisers, adults-only areas for relaxation, and themed restaurants that bring Disney’s beloved stories and characters to life.

So, if you’re looking for a vacation experience where your family can enjoy the magic of Disney while exploring breathtaking destinations and being pampered with world-class service, a Disney Cruise is the perfect choice.

Why is Boarding Time Important?

Boarding time is a crucial aspect of any cruise vacation, including Disney Cruises. The time at which you are able to board the ship sets the tone for your entire vacation and can have a significant impact on your overall experience. Here are a few reasons why boarding time is important:

• Settling In: Boarding the ship early allows you to get settled in your stateroom, unpack your belongings, and explore the various amenities and offerings onboard. Being able to familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout before it gets crowded can help you make the most of your time onboard.
• Maximizing Onboard Time: A Disney Cruise offers a wide range of activities, entertainment, and dining experiences. The earlier you board, the more time you have to enjoy everything the ship has to offer. From character meet-and-greets to spa treatments to exciting deck parties, maximizing your onboard time ensures you don’t miss out on any of the magical experiences.
• Priority for Popular Activities: Some onboard activities, such as character breakfasts or reservations for specialty restaurants, can fill up quickly. By boarding early, you have a better chance of securing reservations and participating in these popular activities.
• Exploring the Ship: Disney Cruise ships are like floating resorts with numerous venues, including pools, lounges, theaters, and restaurants. Boarding early allows you to roam around and explore the ship, getting a feel for the layout and discovering all the exciting spots you’ll want to spend time in during your cruise.
• Relaxation and Unwinding: With the hustle and bustle of embarkation day, being able to board early gives you the opportunity to find a quiet spot on the ship to relax and unwind. Enjoy a peaceful moment on a deck chair, take a dip in the pool, or indulge in a spa treatment—boarding early allows you to start your vacation on a calm and leisurely note.

Overall, boarding time is important because it sets the stage for your Disney Cruise experience. By boarding early, you can settle in, make the most of your time onboard, secure reservations for popular activities, and get a head start on exploring the ship. So, be sure to plan ahead and aim for the earliest boarding time available to make the most of your magical journey at sea.

Factors Affecting the Earliest Boarding Time

The earliest boarding time for a Disney Cruise can vary depending on several factors. Understanding these factors can help you plan your embarkation day and ensure you have the best chance of boarding the ship as early as possible. Here are some key factors that can influence the earliest boarding time:

• 1. Arrival Time at the Port: The time you arrive at the cruise port can impact your boarding time. Generally, embarkation begins in the late morning or early afternoon, and each sailing has a designated check-in time to manage the flow of guests. Arriving closer to your assigned check-in time can increase your chances of boarding early.
• 2. Check-in Process: The check-in process plays a significant role in determining your boarding time. Before boarding the ship, you’ll need to complete check-in procedures, including presenting your travel documents, going through security screening, and receiving your Key to the World card, which serves as your identification and ship key during the cruise. The efficiency of the check-in process can impact the time it takes for you to board the ship.
• 3. Stateroom Availability: The availability of your stateroom can also affect your boarding time. As the previous cruise disembarks and the crew prepares the ship for the next group of guests, there is a process of cleaning and preparing the staterooms. Depending on the speed at which this process is completed, some guests may be able to access their staterooms earlier than others, allowing them to settle in before the ship sets sail.
• 4. Priority Boarding: Guests with certain statuses or accommodations may be given priority boarding. For example, guests staying in concierge-level staterooms, Castaway Club members (Disney Cruise Line’s loyalty program), or those requiring special assistance may have the opportunity to board the ship earlier than other guests. These priority boarding privileges can significantly impact the earliest boarding time.
• 5. Special Accommodations: If you have specific needs or accommodations, such as dietary restrictions, mobility assistance, or traveling with young children, it’s essential to communicate these in advance. Disney Cruise Line strives to cater to all guests’ needs, and by informing them ahead of time, they can make necessary arrangements, potentially granting earlier boarding if required.

While these factors can influence the earliest boarding time for a Disney Cruise, it’s important to remember that they are subject to change. The embarkation process is managed by the cruise line to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for all passengers. It’s recommended to stay informed by checking the pre-cruise information provided by Disney Cruise Line or contacting their guest services for any updates or changes related to boarding time.

By considering these factors and planning ahead, you can increase your chances of boarding the ship early and start your Disney Cruise adventure with a touch of magic!

Arrival Time at the Port

The time you arrive at the cruise port plays a significant role in determining your earliest boarding time for a Disney Cruise. Generally, Disney Cruise Line assigns each sailing a specific check-in time to manage the flow of guests and ensure a smooth embarkation process. Arriving closer to your assigned check-in time can increase your chances of boarding the ship early.

It’s important to plan your travel arrangements accordingly and allow sufficient time to reach the port. Factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and distances can impact your arrival time. To account for any unexpected delays, it’s advisable to arrive at the port a few hours before your designated check-in time.

Upon arrival at the cruise port, follow the instructions provided by Disney Cruise Line or port authorities. There will be designated areas for drop-off and parking, and helpful staff members will guide you through the check-in process.

Before you step foot onto the ship, you’ll need to complete the check-in procedure, which includes presenting your travel documents, such as your passport or government-issued identification, and filling out necessary forms. You’ll also receive your Key to the World card, which serves as your identification, stateroom key, and onboard payment method.

It’s worth noting that check-in times may be subject to change, so it’s recommended to stay informed by checking the pre-cruise information provided by Disney Cruise Line or contacting their guest services. By doing so, you can ensure you arrive at the port at the appropriate time and have a smooth start to your Disney Cruise vacation.

Additionally, if you encounter any travel issues or anticipate being significantly delayed, it’s best to inform Disney Cruise Line or your travel agent as soon as possible. They may be able to provide guidance or assistance to help you navigate the situation and minimize any impact on your boarding time.

Remember, arriving at the port on time is crucial to maximize your earliest boarding time. So, plan ahead, allow for extra travel time, and promptly follow any instructions or updates from Disney Cruise Line to begin your magical journey at sea on a positive note.

Check-in Process

The check-in process is a vital step in determining your earliest boarding time for a Disney Cruise. It involves completing necessary procedures before you can board the ship and begin your vacation. Understanding and efficiently navigating the check-in process can help you board the ship as early as possible.

Before your cruise, Disney Cruise Line will provide you with pre-cruise information detailing the required documentation and steps for check-in. It’s essential to review this information carefully to ensure you have all the necessary documents and complete any required forms beforehand.

When you arrive at the cruise port on embarkation day, you’ll be directed to the check-in area. Disney Cruise Line has streamlined the check-in process, making it as efficient and seamless as possible.

Typically, the check-in process involves presenting your travel documents, such as your passport or government-issued identification, and filling out health questionnaires or other necessary forms. These documents are essential for verification and ensuring compliance with international travel regulations.

Disney Cruise Line also offers online check-in, allowing guests to complete certain portions of the check-in process ahead of time. By providing information ahead of your cruise, such as passport details and emergency contact information, you can expedite the check-in process and potentially save time on embarkation day.

Once you have completed the necessary check-in procedures, you will be issued the Key to the World card. This card serves as your identification, stateroom key, and onboard payment method during the cruise. Keep this card secure as you will need it for various activities and services throughout your time onboard.

The efficiency of the check-in process can vary depending on factors such as the number of guests checking in, staff availability, and unforeseen circumstances. Disney Cruise Line strives to make the process as smooth and organized as possible, but it’s important to be prepared for potential wait times.

To expedite the check-in process, it’s recommended to have all your necessary documents readily available, along with any pre-filled forms or online check-in confirmations. Ensure that your passport or identification is valid and not expired to avoid any delays or complications.

By being well-prepared, following instructions from Disney Cruise Line staff, and having all required documents in order, you can breeze through the check-in process and increase your chances of boarding the ship as early as possible.

Remember, the check-in process is an essential step in the embarkation journey. By approaching it efficiently and proactively, you set the foundation for a smooth and enjoyable Disney Cruise experience.

Stateroom Availability

The availability of your stateroom is another factor that can impact your earliest boarding time for a Disney Cruise. As the ship prepares for a new group of guests, there is a process of cleaning, inspecting, and preparing the staterooms. The speed at which this process is completed can affect when guests can access their accommodations and settle in before the ship sets sail.

Upon boarding, you will receive your Key to the World card, which serves as your identification, stateroom key, and onboard payment method. This card will grant you access to your stateroom once it is ready for occupancy.

The crew onboard works diligently to ensure staterooms are ready for guests as quickly as possible. However, it’s important to note that the timing of stateroom availability can vary based on numerous factors, including the size of the ship, the number of guests onboard, and the complexity of the cleaning process.

Disney Cruise Line typically provides updates on stateroom availability throughout the boarding process. They will announce when staterooms are ready, allowing guests to proceed to their accommodations and start settling in for their cruise.

While waiting for your stateroom to become available, Disney Cruise Line offers various onboard activities, entertainment options, and dining venues to keep you engaged and entertained. You can explore the ship, enjoy a meal, or participate in scheduled activities until your stateroom is ready.

It’s important to have your essential belongings with you as you wait for stateroom availability. Carry items such as travel documents, medications, valuable possessions, and any other necessary items to ensure you have what you need during this period.

If accessing your stateroom early is vital for your travel plans or specific needs, it’s recommended to communicate this with Disney Cruise Line in advance. While they cannot guarantee early stateroom access due to operational concerns, they will do their best to accommodate your request if possible.

By staying informed of stateroom availability updates, being patient, and taking advantage of the onboard amenities and activities offered during this waiting period, you can make the most of your time until your stateroom is ready.

Remember, stateroom availability is influenced by various factors, and the crew works diligently to ensure a smooth transition for guests. Patience and flexibility will help you navigate this process and set the stage for a fantastic Disney Cruise adventure.

Priority Boarding

Priority boarding is a privilege that can significantly impact the earliest boarding time for a Disney Cruise. Certain guests may be granted priority status, allowing them to board the ship ahead of other passengers and start their vacation early. Here are a few examples of who might be eligible for priority boarding:

• Concierge-Level Guests: Guests staying in concierge-level staterooms enjoy a higher level of service and exclusive amenities. As part of this enhanced experience, concierge-level guests often receive priority boarding, allowing them to embark the ship early and start enjoying the onboard offerings.
• Castaway Club Members: The Castaway Club is Disney Cruise Line’s loyalty program, designed to reward repeat cruisers. Members of different Castaway Club tiers, such as Silver, Gold, and Platinum, receive various benefits, including priority boarding. The higher your tier, the earlier you can board the ship.
• Special Assistance: Guests with special needs or requiring special assistance may have priority boarding to ensure a smooth embarkation process. This includes guests with mobility issues, disabilities, or medical conditions that may require additional time or attention during boarding.
• Other Special Circumstances: There may be other special circumstances or accommodations that warrant priority boarding. These can include large groups, VIPs, media personnel, or other individuals with specific needs or arrangements.

Disney Cruise Line prioritizes guest satisfaction and aims to provide a memorable experience for all. By offering priority boarding to certain guests, they ensure that these individuals have the opportunity to begin their cruise with ease and comfort.

During the boarding process, Disney Cruise Line staff will direct guests eligible for priority boarding to designated areas or queues. Here, they will receive assistance and instructions on how to proceed with the embarkation process. It’s important to have the necessary documentation readily available and to follow the instructions provided to ensure a smooth and efficient boarding experience.

If you believe you are eligible for priority boarding, it’s important to communicate this information to Disney Cruise Line in advance or during the check-in process. By providing the necessary documentation or information, you can increase the likelihood of receiving priority boarding and enjoy the benefits associated with it.

While priority boarding can provide an advantage in terms of the earliest boarding time, it’s essential to note that specific details and eligibility criteria may vary depending on the ship, itinerary, or other operational considerations.

By understanding the concept of priority boarding and being aware of your eligibility or any necessary arrangements, you can set the stage for a smooth embarkation and start your Disney Cruise in the most magical way possible!

Special Accommodations

When it comes to boarding a Disney Cruise, guests with special accommodations may have unique considerations that can impact their earliest boarding time. Disney Cruise Line is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all guests, and they are equipped to cater to a variety of needs. Here are some instances where special accommodations may affect boarding time:

• Dietary Restrictions: If you have specific dietary needs or restrictions, it’s important to communicate this information to Disney Cruise Line ahead of time. By doing so, the cruise line can make necessary arrangements to accommodate your dietary requirements. This may include providing specialized meals or ensuring that appropriate food options are available to you upon boarding.
• Mobility Assistance: Guests requiring mobility assistance, such as wheelchair users, may require additional time and attention during boarding. Disney Cruise Line is well-equipped to provide assistance and ensure a smooth embarkation process. By informing the cruise line in advance, they can allocate the necessary resources to support your needs and facilitate an efficient boarding experience.
• Traveling with Young Children: Families with young children may have unique considerations during boarding. Disney Cruise Line strives to make the process as seamless as possible for families by providing dedicated areas and services for families with babies, toddlers, and young children. Strollers, car seats, and other necessary equipment can be accommodated, allowing families to navigate the boarding process comfortably.
• Other Special Needs: There may be other special needs or accommodations that could influence the boarding time. These can include medical conditions, sensory sensitivities, or any other circumstances that require special attention or additional time during the check-in and boarding process. By communicating your specific needs to Disney Cruise Line in advance, they can make the necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth experience.

It’s crucial to notify Disney Cruise Line of any special accommodations or needs in advance. This allows them to make the necessary preparations to accommodate your requirements and potentially provide you with the earliest boarding time to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Upon arrival at the cruise port, Disney Cruise Line staff will provide assistance and guide you through the boarding process. They are trained to cater to guests with special accommodations, ensuring that their needs are met and that the boarding experience is as seamless as possible.

Remember, effective communication with Disney Cruise Line is key to ensuring that your special accommodations are addressed and that you can enjoy the earliest boarding time possible. By providing the necessary information and discussing your needs with the cruise line beforehand, you can embark on your Disney Cruise knowing that your requirements have been taken care of.

Tips for Ensuring the Earliest Boarding Time

To maximize your chances of securing the earliest boarding time for your Disney Cruise, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

• Arrive at the Port Early: Plan your travel arrangements to ensure you arrive at the cruise port well in advance of your designated check-in time. This allows you to navigate any unexpected delays and provides ample time to complete the check-in process.
• Check-In Online: Take advantage of online check-in offered by Disney Cruise Line. This allows you to provide necessary information and complete certain portions of the check-in process before your cruise. Online check-in can help expedite the on-site check-in process and potentially save time.
• Follow Pre-Cruise Information: Stay informed and review all pre-cruise information provided by Disney Cruise Line. This includes any specific instructions or requirements related to boarding time. Information can be found on the Disney Cruise Line website or through correspondence sent to you before your cruise.
• Ensure Required Documents: Double-check that you have all the required travel documents, such as passports or government-issued identification, readily available. Make sure these documents are valid and not expired to avoid any delays or complications during the check-in process.
• Communicate Special Accommodations: If you have any special accommodations or needs, such as dietary restrictions, mobility assistance, or traveling with young children, communicate these to Disney Cruise Line in advance. By doing so, they can make the necessary arrangements and potentially offer early boarding if required.
• Stay Organized: Keep all necessary documents, such as passports, identification, and boarding passes, easily accessible. This ensures a smooth and efficient check-in process and saves valuable time at the cruise port.
• Be Patient and Flexible: Embarkation day can be busy and bustling with activity. Be patient and understanding while waiting in queues or during the stateroom availability process. Utilize this time to explore the ship, enjoy onboard activities, or grab a bite to eat. Remaining flexible and open to adjustments will contribute to a stress-free embarkation experience.
• Follow Staff Directions: Listen to and follow the instructions and guidance provided by Disney Cruise Line staff. They are there to assist you and ensure a smooth boarding process. Pay attention to any announcements or updates regarding boarding procedures and stay informed throughout the embarkation process.

By following these tips, you can enhance your chances of securing the earliest boarding time for your Disney Cruise. The boarding process sets the stage for your vacation experience, so being prepared, organized, and informed will help you start your magical journey on the right foot.

Remember, boarding time may be subject to change, and operational considerations can impact the process. Stay proactive, stay informed, and enjoy the excitement of embarking on a Disney Cruise filled with enchantment, entertainment, and lifelong memories.

Understanding the earliest boarding time for a Disney Cruise is crucial to ensure a smooth and enjoyable embarkation experience. By familiarizing yourself with the factors that affect boarding time and implementing the provided tips, you can maximize your chances of boarding the ship early.

A Disney Cruise offers a unique blend of Disney magic, exceptional service, and breathtaking destinations. Arriving at the cruise port on time, completing the check-in process efficiently, and being aware of stateroom availability are important considerations for securing an early boarding time.

Factors such as priority boarding for certain guests and accommodations for specific needs or restrictions can also impact boarding time. By communicating any special accommodations in advance, you give Disney Cruise Line the opportunity to provide early boarding if possible.

Following the tips mentioned, such as arriving early, checking in online, and staying organized, can help streamline the boarding process and increase your chances of setting sail as soon as possible. It’s important to remain flexible, patient, and attentive to instructions from Disney Cruise Line staff, ensuring a smooth and stress-free embarkation experience.

Remember, the earliest boarding time sets the tone for your entire Disney Cruise experience. It allows you to settle in, explore the ship, and make the most of the onboard offerings and amenities. By starting your vacation early, you can embark on a journey filled with magical moments, unforgettable adventures, and cherished memories.

Now that you have a better understanding of the factors affecting the earliest boarding time and valuable tips to ensure a smooth embarkation, you’re ready to embark on a truly enchanting Disney Cruise vacation. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready to set sail on a voyage of wonder, excitement, and endless magic!

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What Time Can You Board Disney Cruise?

Boarding a Disney Cruise is an exciting event that marks the beginning of a magical journey. However, knowing the exact time you can board can be a bit tricky as it depends on several factors. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what time you can board a Disney Cruise and provide helpful tips to ensure a smooth boarding process.

The earliest boarding time for a Disney Cruise is typically around 11:00 a.m., but this can vary depending on the sailing. The exact time will depend on factors such as your online check-in, port arrival time, and carry-on luggage. It’s recommended to check in online as soon as your window opens, which is 75 days prior to departure for first-time cruisers, to secure an early boarding time.

The Earliest Boarding Time

The earliest time passengers are allowed to board a Disney Cruise is typically around 11:00 a.m., although this may vary slightly depending on the sailing. To secure an early boarding time, it is recommended to check in online as soon as your window opens, which is 75 days prior to departure for first-time cruisers.

Boarding Time Variations

Boarding times for cruise ships can differ depending on the cruise line and itinerary. Cruise ships usually begin boarding approximately four to five hours before the scheduled departure time. However, after the COVID-19 pandemic, many cruise lines started assigning boarding times to passengers or asking them to choose their preferred time window to stagger the crowds. This method has largely remained in place for most cruise lines.

Factors Affecting Boarding Time

Several factors may affect the boarding time for a Disney Cruise:

• Online check-in: Completing online check-in ahead of time can help expedite the boarding process.
• Port arrival time: During online check-in, you will be asked to choose a port arrival time, which is the time Disney Cruise Line wants you to arrive at the port. Arriving during your designated time can help ensure a smoother boarding process.
• Carry-on luggage: Since your room and luggage may not be ready until the afternoon (usually between 2-3 pm), you’ll need a carry-on for essential items like medications, cruise documents, and a swimsuit.
• Travel documentation: At check-in, all guests must present valid passports or other acceptable proof of citizenship.
• Security checks: As you enter the Disney Cruise Line terminal, your carry-on bags will be checked through an X-ray machine, and you will pass through a metal detector, similar to airport security.

Special Boarding Times and Accommodations

Disney Cruise Line is committed to providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests, including those with special needs or accommodations. Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate. Pre-boarding is available for customers with disabilities who need a specific seat, assistance boarding the aircraft, or need to stow an assistive device.

What to Expect During Boarding

During the boarding process, you can expect the following:

• Arrival at the terminal: The cruise terminal usually opens at 11:15 AM. It is recommended that guests complete their Online Check-In before arriving at the terminal to ensure a smooth boarding process.
• Terminal check-in: Disney Cruise Line typically begins checking guests in at 11:00 AM. Your actual boarding time will depend on your Port Arrival Time.
• Required documents: At check-in, all guests must present valid passports or other acceptable proof of citizenship. Make sure you have your DisneyBand+ charged and accessible for boarding.

What If You Miss Your Boarding Time?

If passengers miss their designated boarding time, they may face several consequences. Airlines typically require passengers to check in at least 30 minutes before departure, so arriving late may result in missing the flight altogether. In some cases, airlines may charge you for a new ticket if you miss a flight, but there may be exceptions depending on the airline’s policy.

Knowing when to board your Disney Cruise is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable start to your vacation. By being prepared and following the guidelines provided by Disney Cruise Line, you can help ensure a smooth and efficient boarding process. Remember, the magic starts the moment you step on board!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i board the disney cruise earlier if i’m a member of the castaway club.

Yes, being a member of the Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club does provide some advantages when it comes to boarding. Platinum, Gold, and Silver Castaway Club members have access to early online check-in, which could potentially allow for earlier boarding times.

Is there a specific dress code to follow while boarding the Disney Cruise?

There isn’t a specific dress code for boarding a Disney Cruise. However, it’s always a good idea to dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Also, keep in mind that you might not have access to your luggage until later in the afternoon, so it’s recommended to pack essential items, including a change of clothes if necessary, in your carry-on bag.

Can I bring food or drinks on board during the boarding process?

Disney Cruise Line allows guests to bring a limited amount of food and drink onboard. However, these must be packed in a carry-on bag, not in checked luggage. Alcoholic beverages are subject to certain restrictions, and it’s always best to check Disney Cruise Line’s latest policy before your departure.

What happens to my luggage during the boarding process?

Upon arrival at the port, your checked luggage will be taken by porters and delivered directly to your stateroom later in the day. It’s important to pack any essentials or valuables in your carry-on bag, as you won’t have immediate access to your checked luggage.

Do I need to print my boarding documents or can I use digital copies?

While digital copies are convenient, it’s always a good idea to carry printed copies of your boarding documents as well. Technology can sometimes fail or run out of battery, and having a hard copy could help avoid any potential issues during the boarding process.

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All aboard! What you need to know about cruise boarding times and how early to arrive for a cruise

The big day is approaching, and you're finally getting ready to head to the cruise port and board your ship. How can you ensure you're prepared to start your vacation on the right foot? You'll need a plan for getting to the port and some knowledge about the embarkation process, including your cruise ship boarding time.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, cruise lines would often allow passengers to show up at the terminal on embarkation day whenever was convenient for them within a half-day window.

In the aftermath of the pandemic, lines began assigning boarding times to passengers or, more commonly, asking them to choose the window of time that they'd prefer in order to stagger the crowds. The new method has worked so well that it has largely remained in place for most cruise lines.

But what time do cruises board, and is there a best time to board a cruise ship? Read on to find out the answers, as well as when you should plan to arrive in your departure city before you set sail.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

When to arrive for a cruise

Ask "when should I arrive for my cruise?" and you likely mean one of two things: When should you arrive in your ship's departure port city before your sailing or when should you arrive at the cruise terminal on embarkation day?

The answer to the first question depends on how far of a commute you have to the cruise port. If you live within driving distance of your departure port, it's acceptable to make your way there the same day your ship leaves — unless you're looking at a multi-hour ride and don't want to cut it too close to boarding time.

If you're catching a plane, when to fly in for your cruise depends on several factors. I always advise flying in at least one day before you're scheduled to embark, just in case you encounter any delays or cancellations. That way, you have time to rebook yourself on a different flight if something goes wrong.

Related: Should I buy my flights through my cruise line

However, adding the cost of a pre-cruise hotel stay onto the overall bill isn't always doable for every traveler, especially those on tight budgets. If that's the case and you can find a super-early flight that gets you to your port city with some wiggle room, flying in the same day you sail is possible.

Either way, I recommend purchasing travel insurance (through a third party, not through your cruise line) that will protect your investment if something happens and you miss your ship.

What time do cruise ships board?

As for when to arrive at the cruise terminal on embarkation day, the answer depends on your boarding time.

Cruise ships usually begin boarding an hour or two after all passengers from the previous voyage have left the ship. Disembarkation generally wraps up by 10 a.m. at the latest, and some extra time is allowed for the crew to start on tasks like provisioning (restocking of supplies and food), bunkering (refueling) and cleaning of the vessel's cabins and public areas to ready them for the next round of guests.

Related: 27 cruise ship embarkation day do's and don'ts

Boarding begins roughly between 10 and 11 a.m., depending on the ship's schedule and how long it takes everyone from the last cruise to debark. Most cruise ships require all passengers to be on board no fewer than one to two hours before the scheduled departure time, which is almost always in the late afternoon or evening.

Best time to board a cruise ship

The best time to board a cruise ship is obviously when there are few lines and short waits. The trick is knowing when that will be.

Unfortunately, it can vary from port to port and ship to ship, but I prefer arriving in the early afternoon, usually around 1 or 2 p.m.

By then, the morning rush of "me first" passengers has usually died down, and it allows enough time between your arrival at the port and "all aboard," the cutoff for when all passengers and crew must be on the vessel. (If you're someone who prefers to spend as much time as possible on board, you can elect to choose an earlier boarding time, but be warned that there could be long lines and wait times.)

Alternatively, if you have upper-tier loyalty status, you're booked in a high-end suite or you've purchased one of several perks packages (like Carnival Cruise Line 's Faster to the Fun, Royal Caribbean International 's The Key or Norwegian Cruise Line 's Priority Access), you can arrive at any time to take advantage of priority boarding or special embarkation lounge access to make your wait more comfortable. The latter often includes a separate sitting area with snacks and drinks.

There are several other tricks — like completing check-in online or via your cruise line's mobile app before you show up — that you can employ to speed up the embarkation process.

What to expect when boarding your cruise ship

When you arrive at the terminal facility in your port of embarkation, you can expect the scene to be chaotic. Follow signs for the applicable arrival channel, whether that be parking or drop-offs via taxis, Ubers and shuttles.

Before you head inside, leave large bags with the porters, who will make sure they're safely loaded onto the ship. (Although it's not required, it's nice to give a dollar or two per bag as a tip.) You can't miss the porters and their baggage carts as they line up on the curb by the terminal.

When you enter the terminal building, you must show your ID and boarding documents and proceed through a security check. Your carry-on bags pass through a scanner, and you must walk through a metal detector. Although it's similar to the procedure at airport security, you won't have to take your shoes off or remove laptops or liquids from your bags (unless they find contraband alcohol or something else that looks suspicious).

Then, you'll proceed to the check-in desk, where an agent will help you complete the process. If you've already checked in online, the process will be faster. Exceptions are more advanced ports or cruise lines (like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity) that allow you to skip the check-in desk if you've already completed everything (check-in, onboard account setup and security photo) ahead of time using the app.

In cases where you don't receive a keycard at check-in, it will be waiting for you either at your cabin door or inside your room.

After check-in, you'll head up the gangway and onto the ship, where security will scan your card to log that you've boarded. (Each time you disembark or re-board in a port of call, you'll also have to swipe your card, so keep it with you.)

How long does it take to board a cruise ship?

The length of time it will take from curb to gangway will vary based on several considerations, including:

• Whether you're traveling light. If you have a carry-on only , you can proceed straight into the terminal building. If you have larger luggage, you'll have to leave it with a porter outside, which can take a few minutes.
• How technologically advanced the cruise terminal and cruise line are. At terminals where facial recognition is used, you can board a lot faster, as is the case for cruise lines that allow check-in and the setting up of onboard accounts via mobile app before the day you board. Technology allows passengers to skip traditional check-in methods, which usually involve waiting in line to speak with someone at the check-in desk.
• Whether you have priority boarding. If you're in the upper echelons of the line's loyalty program, purchased a package that includes priority embarkation or you're staying in a high-end suite, you'll have the privilege of boarding before most of your fellow cruisers, and the process will be expedited with dedicated lines and lounges.
• Whether passengers adhere to their assigned boarding times. The goal is to stagger the number of people arriving at any given time so it's more comfortable and streamlined for everyone involved. If people disregard their time, it can cause bottlenecks and slow down the boarding process.
• How crowded it is when you arrive. If there are lines for passenger parking, drop-off or check-in, it will take longer for you to make your way on board.
• How prepared everyone is. If travelers aren't organized and spend extra time rifling through their bags for their cruise tickets, passports and other items necessary for verification, it affects the flow of traffic at the terminal during check-in. This also applies to passengers who pack contraband in their bags, thereby holding up the security line.

Bottom line

It's a good idea to show up in your city of embarkation the day before your cruise if you're flying in. Ships usually start boarding shortly after the final passenger has disembarked from the previous sailing, usually between 10 and 11 a.m. Adhering to your assigned embarkation time will help to keep the boarding process running smoothly. (When choosing a time, aim for something in the afternoon, after the morning rush has died down.)

To ensure the shortest wait possible, make sure to check in and set up your onboard account online or using your cruise line's mobile app ahead of time. Also, have your ID and other boarding documents handy, and don't pack anything in your luggage that could cause you to be flagged at security.

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• More banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
• What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

Carnival Cruise Line makes controversial boarding policy clear

C ruise ship passengers have to pay more attention than people taking land-based vacations. You might, for example, stay at Disney World past park closure or even after transportation stops running.

When that happens, you may need to take an Uber or a Lyft back to your hotel, but there's no fear that the hotel will not be there when you find your way back. Cruise ships. however, have set departure times and they generally leave exactly when they're scheduled to leave.

Related: Carnival Cruise Line forced to make beverage package change

That can be tricky for passengers as sometimes ship time and local time might be different. Back when people wore traditional watches, it was easy enough to simply set your watch to ship time and leave it at that.

Local time only mattered if you booked a reservation or excursion and needed to be there at the right time. Smartphones and watches, however, generally automatically update to local time (although you can set them not to). 

That can lead to situations where a passenger knows they need to be back on the ship 5 p.m. but may not know when 5 p.m. is. Sometimes, of course, passengers simply cut it to close (or maybe have too much to drink) and end up being what's known as pier runners — passengers running on the dock to board the ship before it leaves.

A recent situation where Norwegian Cruise Line NCLH left some passengers behind led to Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald commenting on the issue. 

Carnival will leave you behind 

Carnival, and all cruise lines, pay for the time they are docked in port. In most cases, they will wait for passengers who are late that booked a cruise-line sponsored excursion (technically, Carnival and other cruise lines promise to get those passengers back to the ship, which could mean at a later port).

People who book their own excursions or simply visit the port on their own have no special protections. The cruise lines, can (and will) leave them behind. That's what happened to some Norwegian Cruise Line passengers recently and Heald commented on it on his Facebook page. 

"I had to check to see if I was actually also the Brand Ambassador of NCL. I am not," he wrote. "Now I say that because I was asked, questioned, and indeed bollocked by various people about a news story that went virus or whatever it's called about some NCL guests that had missed the ship and had been 'left in Africa.'"

Heald shared that Carnival likely would have left at the appointed time as it is the passengers' responsibility to be back on the ship on time.

"Anyway, I explained that all the cruise companies make it very clear that they will wait if you’re on one of their excursions but not otherwise. These guests were told what time they had to be on board and they weren’t. It really is that simple," he added.

Carnival gets some passenger pushback

Heald shared a response from one of his followers:

"That was the basis of my reply and wow 'P' did not like that and went full Glitterknickers on me. Brilliantly though she wrote this: 'You have no heart John Heald. The passengers have been punished for having time blindness and accommodations should have been made. The ship should have waited!'" he shared.

Heald made it clear that he was not overly sympathetic to the passengers in this case.

"Can I say again that I do not work for NCL? It’s not my sodding fault. However, time blindness...ummmmm, OK. And as far as 'accommodations' being made, NCL had indeed made some. They are called 'clocks,' he wrote.

Cruise lines do sometimes stay docked past their planned time. Sometimes weather can force a longer stay while medical emergencies may also delay departure.

Heald's post garnered over 350 comments and most agreed with the cruise line.

"Time blindness is a thing, yes, but you just have to be extra aware. My husband is vigilant with the time. I with ADHD who struggle also always am mindful of the time. I hate being late so always try to be early. At what point does a ship stop waiting, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, an hour, you make an exception for one you open the floodgates," wrote Stacey Lanigan.

In addition to accruing additional costs for a longer port stay, a cruise ship may not be able to make its next stop if it is delayed too long.

"John it wouldn’t matter what time people had to be back there’s always those who are late. It’s part of the fun having a balcony, and watching them run! Just follow the rules and there won’t be a problem," Cindy Lane Sells added.