Essential Tips for Disney Cruise Embarkation Day

One of the most important and fun days of your Disney Cruise is embarkation day, when you board the ship and kick off your adventure. Follow these tips to ensure you start your cruise off right.

1. Before You Sail

• DO check in online. You can check in online at least four days prior to your sail date, saving you time when you arrive on embarkation day. You can also register your kids for the youth clubs, reserve spa treatments, and schedule special dining experiences. If you don’t finish in one session, you can save your information and return later.
• DO choose an early arrival time. Although your cruise documents may indicate that the ship departs at 4 PM, check-in generally begins at 11 AM, with embarkation starting around noon. Choosing an early arrival time enables you to enjoy several hours of fun before the ship sets sail.
• DO consider the best dinner seating for your family. Disney’s rotational dining system provides two dinner seatings at 5:45 PM and 8:15 PM. Families with young children often prefer early seating, as it aligns better with their regular dinner times. The later seating allows you to enjoy evening entertainment first, followed by a quieter dinner experience.
• DO schedule a surprise call from a Disney character. Arrange for a call to your child from their favorite Disney characters by visiting the Disney Cruise Line website. Navigate to the “My Disney Cruise” tab to schedule a call.
• DON’T fly in on the same day as your cruise. Avoid the stress of early flights that can leave you exhausted before your cruise even begins. Instead, fly in the night before to ensure you’re fresh and ready to start your vacation.

If you’re flying into Orlando International Airport before a cruise out of Port Canaveral, Florida, consider staying at a local hotel for a restful night.

2. Embarkation Day Tips

• DO attach Disney Cruise luggage tags to your bags. Make sure to fill out your identifying information, including your stateroom number, for smooth luggage handling.
• DO have small bills handy. As you arrive at the port and hand off your luggage to the porters, customary tipping is expected at $1 to $2 per bag.
• DO pack a carry-on with essentials. Since your checked luggage may not arrive until later, ensure that your carry-on includes necessary items like medications, identification, and swimsuits.
• DO download the Navigator app. This free app provides access to entertainment schedules, deck plans, and dining menus. Ensure your Wi-Fi is set to DCL_Guest to use the app without data charges.
• DO think ahead about the security checkpoint. Be prepared for the security measures at the port terminal by placing any metallic items in your carry-on, which will expedite your entry process.
• DO have your cruise documents ready. Inside the terminal, you’ll need your cruise documents, passports, and credit card to complete check-in and receive your stateroom key cards.
• DO enjoy lunch. After boarding the ship, you can enjoy lunch at various venues, including a buffet or the ship’s main dining room, both offering delightful options.
• DO reserve special experiences. Once aboard, take the opportunity to book any experiences you may have missed during the online check-in process.
• DO start your vacation immediately. Although you may not have access to your stateroom right away, the ship’s pools and activity hubs will be open for you to explore and enjoy.
• DO prepare for the muster drill. Attendance is mandatory for a muster drill on the first day. Ensure you arrive at your stateroom at least 15 minutes prior to this important safety briefing.
• DON’T miss the Sail Away Celebration Deck Party. This exciting deck party occurs just before the ship departs, featuring music, dancing, and character appearances to kick off your cruise in style.
• DO enjoy the special dining experience. If sailing on the Disney Dream or Disney Fantasy, consider booking a unique dining event offered on the first night at Remy, the ship’s elegant French restaurant.