disney cruise line disembarkation

Disney Cruise Line Debarkation: A Complete Guide

by Kelly Coffey-Behrens | Jan 5, 2024 | Disney Cruise Line

Ever wonder what happens when your Disney cruise vacation comes to an end? We’re sharing everything you need to know about Disney Cruise Line debarkation below in this guide.

Although no one who’s set sail on a cruise vacation wants to think about it, every Disney Cruise Line sailing does come to an end –– and that means you’ll have to go through the debarkation process. Debarkation on a Disney cruise is definitely a process, and it’s one that includes multiple steps. You’ll need to be ready (and organized!) to ensure debarkation day goes smoothly. 

So, what’s in store during the debarkation process for a Disney cruise? Here’s what you need to know before you set sail to familiarize yourself on what you need to do prior to debarkation and before your last day aboard any Disney ship.

The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App is Key for Debarkation

Before you set sail, make sure you download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app . You’ll rely on the app throughout your cruise, but it’s particularly critical during debarkation. In fact, what many guests don’t realize is the Disney Cruise Line debarkation process actually starts a day or two before you dock in port –– and you’ll need the Navigator app to get started.

New to Disney Cruise Line and using the Navigator app? It’ll be your best friend even before you board! Check out these tips for a smooth first-time experience .

The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app includes an entire section on debarkation. We highly recommend reading through this section a few days before your cruise ends so you can prepare any info you might need, plan your final day on the ship, and get your necessities in order beforehand.

Wrap Up Your Final Disney Cruise Purchases and Charges

When debarkation day arrives, there’s a lot to do –– and keep in mind. You can lighten the load a bit by crossing some tasks off your to-do list in advance, like finalizing your purchases, onboard charges, and double-checking all of your financial information before your cruise wraps up.

View Your Cruise Folio

One detail you don’t want to rush through is checking your cruise folio. We suggest doing this prior to debarkation day so you have time to take a full look at your bill for all onboard charges. You’ll find your cruise folio in the Navigator app. 

Outstanding purchases will be charged to your credit card on file, but it’s still a good idea to scroll through the folio and ensure all the transactions are correct ahead of debarkation. Lines can be long on the last day prior to debarkation, so the sooner you do this, the better.

Check Out Your Cruise Photos

Photo by Jaysen White

If you haven’t already done so throughout your cruise, we highly recommend utilizing the onboard photo kiosks to look at all the magical memories you captured in photos throughout your vacation.

You can decide whether to purchase a photo package or individual shots, but even if you aren’t sure if you’d like to purchase any photos, it’s important to do this before you debark. Once your cruise is over, this is no longer an option –– so you have limited time to make the decision!

Tipping Cast Members and Your Service Crew

When it comes to gratuities for Cast Members , Disney Cruise Line will automatically charge your account a standard gratuity fee for your stateroom host, dining room servers, assistant server, and head server. You don’t need to worry about these tips if you’re happy to stick with the automated amount.

However, if you found your service crew went above and beyond and wish to add an additional tip, you can do this at Guest Services or by adding cash to the gratuity envelopes that will be left in your stateroom on debarkation day. Remember, lines and wait times are long during debarkation day on a Disney cruise, so this is something you can do in advance to save time!

How to Handle Your Luggage During Disney Cruise Debarkation

Photo by Bill Ryan

There are two ways to deal with your luggage on debarkation day: Standard Departure or Express Walk Off.

On your last night of your cruise, you will receive a set of disembarkation luggage tags depicting a Disney character. If you want to utilize Standard Departure, you’ll fill out the name/address information on each tag and place them on your checked luggage pieces. You will then place your luggage outside your stateroom door prior to 11 PM that evening (times are subject to change, so be sure to check with your stateroom host for an exact time.)

The next morning, guests will be called to depart the ship in groups based on their luggage tag character/color. After you disembark, you will enter a large room which contains hundreds of pieces of luggage. Locate your Disney character/color to find your checked luggage. 

If you want to utilize Express Walk Off, throw the character luggage tags away! You’ll debark the ship once you hear the announcement for “express.” You will be responsible for bringing everything with you, including all of your luggage.

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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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About The Author

How disembarkation works on Disney Cruise Line

The process of leaving a Disney cruise actually starts the day before with several things to do prior to exiting the ship.

Here’s what to expect for disembarkation.

In this article

Things to do the day before disembarkation

On this last day, there are a few things you’ll need to do as you wrap up your time on the ship.

If you plan to purchase any of the photos taken by the ship’s photographers, you’ll need to head to Shutters Photography Shop to choose those. They will not be available once you’re off the ship.

Your stateroom attendant will leave envelopes in the room for you to put cash inside as tips for your stateroom attendant, server, assistant server, and head server. Be sure to give the envelopes to your servers at your last dinner.

If you prepaid for tips, you can also tear off the perforated strips on the sheet and put them in the envelopes to give to the servers.

Fill out the survey

A survey will be given to you to fill out about your whole cruise experience. This survey is very important to the crew members and many will be very assertive about asking you to complete it.

Be sure to take some time to fill it out and drop it off as you’re leaving the ship. Drop-off locations include Guest Services, breakfast dining locations, and the desk as you exit the ship.

Do some final shopping

Want some things in the shops? Be sure to snag those items while you’re still at sea as the shops will be closed as you pull into your port.

Settle any charge discrepancies at Guest Services

Check your folio for charges. If there are any issues, head to the Guest Services desk to settle those.

Book a future cruise placeholder

One of the most popular ways to save on a future cruise is to book a placeholder on your current cruise (same idea as a bounceback offer for Walt Disney World ). This is only available on the cruise so you’ll need to book it in the DCL app if you’re interested.

Booking this placeholder will save you 10% on a future cruise and give you a reduced deposit on cruises of 7+ nights. You can choose your exact cruise later, but it must be within 24 months. Get more details .

Put your luggage out by 10 p.m.

If you want your bags transported off the ship by the crew, you’ll need to have your luggage set out in the hallway between 8 and 10 p.m. with the tags attached (your tags will be left in your room by your stateroom attendant).

The character on your tags is also the group you’ll listen for when they call groups to disembark.

If you want to take your own luggage off the ship (called “Express Walk-Off”), you can skip this step. Definitely recommend Express Walk-Off for anybody who wants to exit the ship ASAP.

Watch the farewell show

There’s usually a farewell “Til We Meet Again” show at 10:15 p.m. (check your DCL app for exact times) that includes the ship’s characters in the atrium on the last night. After they parade through, they’ll often spread out and be available to meet and take pics with in various spots in the atrium area.

Order room service breakfast by midnight

If you want breakfast the next morning but don’t want to head to a restaurant, order it the night before by midnight so you can have it on hand in the morning. Coffee will stay hot in the carafe, and cold items can be kept in the refrigerator overnight.

Note: you can’t use the door hanger to order breakfast this night. You’ll need to dial 0 to place your order.

Things to do on disembarkation day

The morning that the ship pulls in and everybody is ready to leave the ship can be a little hectic. Here are some things to do.

Pick up alcohol being held by the ship

If you purchased any liquor at a port during your cruise, it’ll be held by the ship until this day. Be sure to allow time to pick it up this morning.

Eat breakfast

For breakfast before leaving the ship, you’ll have these options:

• Casual Buffet – often fewer options than other days of the cruise, but a limited selection will be available
• Eat in a dining room – you’ll be assigned a dining room where you can have a sit-down breakfast if you’d like
• Room service – ends at midnight the night before, so you can order the night before as mentioned above
• Cove Cafe – fancy drinks will cost extra, but the pastries are included

Keep in mind that you will usually have to be out of your stateroom by 8 a.m. so you’ll need to carry any belongings with you if you’re eating at 8 a.m. or later.

Leave the ship

You’ll walk off the ship with any luggage that you have with you.

If you are doing Express Walk-Off, you can exit the ship as soon as the ship is cleared.

If you’re not doing Express Walk-Off, you can exit the ship when your group is called.

You’ll need your Key to the World card with you as you exit.

Pick up luggage in cruise terminal

If you tagged your bags and left them out the night before, you’ll need to find them in the cruise terminal. They will be grouped together by the character on your luggage tag.

Clear customs

In the cruise terminal, you’ll need to have your luggage and passport available to clear customs.

Get the checklist

Save the checklist below to your phone to help remember during your cruise.

Have any questions or things you’d add? Feel free to let us know in the comments.

Disney Cruise Boarding Groups and Embarkation Day Guide

There are few things more exciting than waking up on the morning of embarkation day . The Disney Cruise countdown has finally reached the big day, and you’re feeling both thrilled and stressed at the same time!

But don’t worry, my family and I have navigated through many embarkation days throughout the years. My guide below will walk you through everything you need to know about embarking on your Disney cruise ship.

We’ll cover everything from port arrival to boarding group times to how the embarkation process works. Plus, I’ll provide a list of everything you need to know before boarding the ship, including what you need to pack in your day bag !

(This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy at the bottom of this page for more details.)

Cruise Terminal

If you are new to cruising, you may be hearing some unfamiliar terms during the planning process. One of those terms may even be the word embarkation .

Embarkation Day is the first day that you board the cruise ship to set sail on your much anticipated vacation. The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App even has a fun countdown to your specific cruise’s embarkation day, which makes it even more exciting!

This is one of my favorite features of the app before boarding the cruise ship. Even though embarkation day is an incredibly exciting time, it can also be quite stressful , especially if you aren’t sure what to expect.

Before discussing the time that you need to arrive at the terminal on embarkation day, I want to first talk about how you can get to the port . There are many different ways you could choose to arrive at the Disney Cruise Line terminal:

• motor coach
• DCL Transportation

My family finds Disney Cruise Line ground transportation to be the easiest method to get to the terminal, especially since we travel with our small kids. We prefer the DCL motor coaches because they handle our luggage, and they don’t require car seats for our toddler and six-year-old.

This allows for a much easier experience of getting through the airports with two little ones. We have used the Disney Cruise Line transfers in both Port Canaveral and Miami , and I highly recommend them for ease of use and peace of mind.

Port Arrival Time

The Disney Cruise Line terminals open their doors at different times depending on the port where you are embarking. The typical time the terminal opens is at 11:00 am. This means that, depending on your port, you will probably find that the earliest Port Arrival Time is at 11:00 .

Regardless of when your cruise terminal opens its doors, you should plan your arrival based on your Port Arrival Time and not on the time the doors open.

So, how do you get a Port Arrival Time?

During the Disney cruise online check-in process , you should have chosen a time that you would like to arrive at the port. The reason that you should arrive at the Disney Cruise Line terminal during your Port Arrival Time is that Disney will give you a boarding number BASED ON this selected time .

So, let’s say you chose a Port Arrival Time (PAT) of 1:00. If you show up at the terminal early at 11:00, Disney still has you down for a 1:00 arrival. This means that you will NOT receive a boarding number for a low group like Boarding Group #2. Instead, Disney Cruise Line will give you a boarding number based on your PAT of 1:00.

You may receive Boarding Group #15 even though you arrived at 11:00. This would mean a lot of waiting in the cruise terminal until your boarding group number gets called. So, the important thing to remember is to arrive at the terminal based on your Port Arrival Time and NOT at the time that the doors open.

Now, if you book Disney Cruise Line ground transfers through Disney, you will not need a Port Arrival Time . If this is the case, you will arrive at the port whenever your Disney motor coach drops you off. DCL will issue you a boarding group number based on your drop off time.

Embarkation Day Check-in Process

After you arrive at the Disney Cruise Line terminal and give your bags to a porter (don’t forget to tip), you will be guided to the main entrance of the building. At both Port Canaveral and Port of Miami, you will immediately go through security as you enter the building.

Health Questionaire

Disney Cruise Line guests used to fill out a health form at the terminal once they were past security. However, at the time of this writing, you can now answer the questions on your phone the morning of the cruise. We like to complete this task on our ride to the terminal .

The security process is very similar to the one at the airport. You will be asked to present your:

• Port Arrival Form
• Identification documents

Note that you don’t have to print the Port Arrival Form since it can be scanned on your phone. However, we find it helpful to carry a paper copy with us on embarkation day.

You then put your carry-on bags on a conveyor belt to go through an X-ray machine just like at the airport. On our most recent cruise out of Miami, we were permitted to leave on our shoes as we walked through the metal detector. However, we did put all metal and electronics in a bin to go through the X-ray machine with our bags.

Once you go through security with your family, you will be directed up to the main check-in area at the terminal. Make sure you notice the different lines available .

There is a line for first time cruisers, a line for Castaway Club members, and a line for Concierge guests. So, be sure to stand in the correct one. Even though the cruise terminal may seem to have long lines of people, the Disney crew members move you through the lines quickly.

They will have multiple check-in counters available. The whole process for security and check in usually only takes us about 15 minutes .

When you are at the check-in counter, you will show your Port Arrival Form and your identification documents again. They will make sure your documents match the information and the selfie style photo you submitted during online checkin.

Once you have completed check-in, you will wait in the terminal until your boarding group number is called.

Boarding Group Times

If you are wondering what time Disney cruise boarding usually starts, it can depend. However, it has been our experience that Disney usually starts calling boarding numbers at around 11:30 .

Disney Characters

While you’re waiting in the terminal for the boarding process to start, it’s a good time to look over the Disney Cruise Navigator App and activity options. Depending on where you are embarking, Disney Cruise Line may even have characters in the terminal for you to meet while waiting to board!

Boarding Group Numbers

Once boarding begins, you will hear group numbers called out in the terminal. They will start with Group 1, which is for Concierge and platinum guests. They will then continue in numerical order until everyone is on the ship.

Usually only 5-10 minutes goes by between each group number. Each boarding group contains (what seems like) hundreds of people, so there will be a line. Luckily, it moves quickly and you’ll be onboard in no time!

What to Do after Boarding

Once you have made your way onto the Disney ship, you may be wondering what to do after boarding. Depending on the time you step foot on the ship, you will probably want to grab lunch. Below, we will discuss our favorite embarkation day lunch spots along with other activities we complete soon after boarding.

Embarkation Day Lunch

Each of the Disney ships offers a sit-down meal for lunch in a main dining room . This is a good option for those who would like to be seated and served by a cast member.

Since my family and I tend to head straight to the pool deck after boarding, I usually grab a table for us all to sit near the pools. Then, we get food from one of the quick service windows near the pool.

These dining options are super kid friendly with entrees like hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken tenders, and pizza. There are usually healthier options like salads and wraps available too.

My husband loves the buffet restaurant , so he will typically get his food there and carry it to our table on the pool deck.

After eating lunch, I usually have a few house keeping items on my list to complete. One of the first places I visit is Guest Services for a stroller.

We like to borrow a stroller for our toddler to use during the cruise even though we don’t use it a ton on the ship because the hallways are so narrow. Additionally, the elevators can get really busy, so we often use the stairs, which obviously are not stroller friendly.

Still, the stroller comes in handy during nap times on the go and when you get off the ship in port. To borrow a stroller, you just visit Guest Services where they will put a temporary charge on your account. I think it’s around $250 .

Once you return the stroller at the end of your cruise, they will remove the charge from your account. I particularly like having the stroller when our toddler wakes early in the morning.

It’s nice to be able to stroll around Deck 4 while my older daughter and husband sleep in the room. We also take the stroller onto Castaway Cay with us. This makes it easy for my toddler to take her nap without the rest of us having to go back to the ship. The stroller that Disney Cruise Line has available on board is the City Mini Baby Jogger.

It has a storage area underneath that is super accessible. It also features a huge canopy with windows to keep your baby shaded. There is a handle on the seat of the City Mini that you simply lift to make the whole stroller fold up like a suitcase. You can store the stroller in your room under the bed or even in the closet .

Staterooms on the ship usually open at around 1:30 ; although, this time may be different on your sailing. If you have booked a concierge level room, your stateroom should be ready earlier than this as ours was open right after boarding.

I usually head to the room right at 1:30 to put our toddler down for a nap. As she’s napping, I organize our things in the room as much as I can. The stateroom host typically starts delivering luggage at this time .

I’ve also heard a lot of families like to order a cheese plate or snack from room service after getting into their rooms. I try to get as much as possible unpacked during this time if our bags have arrived.

Key to the World Cards

Key to the World Cards are now placed outside your stateroom door rather than handed to you at check in at the cruise terminal. For more information on these really important items, we highly suggest checking out our Ultimate Guide to Key to the World Cards .

DisneyBand+

I’m adding information about the DisneyBand+ here since we just talked about the Key to the World Cards. That being said, since you can use the DisneyBand+ during your port arrival and check-in process, we suggest purchasing your DisneyBand+ before your cruise .

You will still receive Key to the World Cards outside your stateroom as these must be used when leaving and re-entering the ship. However, the DisneyBand+ can take the place of the Key to the World Cards while on the ship since you can use the band to open your door and make charges to your account.

This is similar to Magic Bands at WDW. You can find more information on the ships and sailings where the DisneyBand+ is available here .

Muster Drill

At around 3:30, the captain will start making announcements about the upcoming Muster Drill. You can look on your Key to the World card or in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App to see which station you need to report to for this mandatory procedure.

For the drill, you will be asked to line up with your travel party from shortest to tallest . You stand shoulder to shoulder with the cruisers on each side of you. The Disney Cruise Line staff will then give you information on their emergency procedures. Once it begins, the muster drill only lasts about 15 minutes or so .

Sail Away Party

After the Muster Drill, most cruisers head to the pool deck to attend the Sail Away Party. We like to stand by the balcony above the pool deck to look down on the party.

However, if you stand on the deck near the stage, you have a chance of greeting the characters as they walk out into the crowd. The Sail Away parties are a great way to get even more pumped up about the cruise! Cast members and characters spend about 30 minutes dancing to fun songs and telling you about some of the fun activities planned for your trip.

Carry On Bag

As mentioned above, before you enter the cruise terminal, the porters will take your luggage from you. Even though it has been my experience that luggage tends to arrive to the stateroom by 4:30, this is not guaranteed.

Sometimes your bags may not be delivered to your stateroom until later that evening AFTER dinner . Because of this, you will probably want to pack an embarkation bag to carry on to the cruise ship with you.

I prefer to use a backpack as our embarkation bag because it’s easy to carry while still allowing full use of my arms. This is the backpack I use as a diaper bag, airport carry-on, and embarkation bag all in one! (Amazon Affiliate Link)

Packing List

The official Disney Cruise Line website provides a small packing list for your embarkation day bag. You can find their suggested list here. I have expanded on the DCL list, and these are the items I typically pack in my embarkation bag:

• lanyards- to hold your Key to the World cards
• reef safe sunscreen – We like Blue Lizard . (Amazon Affiliate Link)
• gallon zip lock bag- to hold wet swimsuits
• change of clothes for dinner (more on this below)
• prescription medications
• seasickness remedies – We use seasickness bands . (Amazon Affiliate Link)
• chargers for electronic devices
• identification (passports/birth certificates)
• Port Arrival Form (that you printed after online check-in)
• dollar bills- to tip driver and porters

If you have a baby or a toddler like I do, you will want to make sure to carry on your child’s diaper bag with baby essentials. This includes enough diapers and wipes to get you through the day. Also, don’t forget to pack a couple swim diapers for the toddler splash area!

What to Wear on Embarkation Day

Deciding which outfits to pack for your family can be a tedious process, especially if you aren’t totally sure what to expect at your destination. When I am planning outfits for embarkation day, I first take into account the weather.

We typically cruise in warmer climates, so that is what I will mostly focus on here. Obviously if you are going on an Alaskan cruise, your Disney cruise embarkation day outfit would look a whole lot different than mine!

Disney Cruise Outfits for Kids

Once I have a good idea of what the weather will be like on embarkation day, I determine the activities that my family will most likely be doing once we board the ship.

My kids love to swim, and they are usually most excited to experience the cruise ship’s pools and water play areas. Because of this, I dress both of my kids in their swimsuits so that they don’t have to waste time changing on board.

My toddler is still in diapers, so I like to put her in a swimsuit that still allows for easy diaper changes. We tend to dress her in a swimsuit that has separate bottoms or that has a bottom that snaps. This way we have easy access to diaper changes in the terminal and onboard.

I usually have my girls wear comfortable dresses over their swimsuits with flip flops or water shoes on their feet. This makes it easy for them to get undressed.

I also find it much easier to keep up with one dress per child as opposed to shirts AND shorts. You could even let your kids wear their swimsuit coverup to board the ship. We always see lots of kids doing this on embarkation day.

↓↓ Visit My Etsy Shop ↓↓

I created a Disney Cruise Planner and Packing Guide (pictured above) that makes it super easy to plan your outfits for each day of your cruise. If you are interested, you can check it out in my Etsy shop above!

Disney Cruise Outfits for Adults

Since we usually spend our time on the pool deck after boarding the ship, my husband and I typically wear clothes appropriate for hot weather. My husband usually dresses in shorts, a T-shirt, and sandals. I tend to wear shorts with a T-shirt or a sundress with sandals.

I don’t wear my swimsuit under my clothes because I usually don’t swim on embarkation day. Instead, we let our older daughter swim while one of us sits on the side of the pool to watch her.

The other adult usually goes to the toddler water play area with our younger daughter. I like to wear flip flops or sandals for boarding so that I can easily slip them on and off on the pool deck.

Disney Cruise Dinner Outfit

Regardless of what you choose to wear on embarkation day, know that it’s a super casual day. Even dinner that first night of the cruise is a really casual experience .

As mentioned above, I make sure to pack our dinner outfits in our carry-on bag in case our main luggage does not arrive in time. However, we typically just wear our embarkation clothes to dinner.

After swimming, my girls will take off their swimsuits and put on the dresses they wore while boarding. (Don’t forget to pack underwear for the kids to put on too!)

I typically find the dining rooms cold on the ships, so I make sure to have light cardigans/jackets in our embarkation bag for each of us. My husband usually doesn’t change for dinner on embarkation day.

He just wears the same shirt and shorts from boarding. Since I tend to get cold in the evenings, I put a pair of jeans or leggings in the day bag as well. I change into these after the Sail Away party.

Disney Cruise Concierge Embarkation Lunch and Perks

On a recent Disney Cruise Line vacation, may family and I were able to upgrade at the port to the Concierge Level. If you are sailing in the Concierge Level with Disney Cruise Line, you will receive some special benefits on embarkation day. These are the Concierge perks that were available for us on embarkation day:

• Priority Boarding – Concierge guests are permitted to board the Disney cruise ship in Boarding Group 1 . This means that as soon as boarding becomes available, you will be escorted onto the ship.
• Private Embarkation Lunch – Concierge guests are able to attend a sit-down lunch on embarkation day in one of the ship’s main dining rooms. You will be served food and complimentary beverages (including alcoholic drinks) at this lunch. You will also meet your Concierge Team at this time.
• Stateroom – Concierge guests get early access to their staterooms on embarkation day. Instead of waiting for rooms to open at 1:30, we were able to go directly to our room after boarding and enjoying our lunch.
• Concierge Team – Your Concierge Team will make notes of your special requests at your embarkation day lunch. You can request a stroller, dinner reservations, or virtually anything you can think of without having to stand in line at Guest Services.

Now You’re Sailing!

Embarkation day is such an exciting time for your whole family! Hopefully this post has helped you feel prepared for your fun-filled day.

All the worries and stress that you feel pre-cruise magically seem to go away as soon as you climb onboard the Disney cruise ship. Just do your best to pack and plan for embarkation day, but don’t forget to enjoy yourself once onboard.

The embarkation day lunch, fun pool deck, and helpful cast members will have you feeling like you’re on a luxurious vacation in no time!

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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My husband and I have been on 20 cruises, but the Disney Dream in February 2023 will be a first for us. We usually carry our luggage ourselves on RCL and Carnival. Is that allowed on the Dream?

I’m so excited to hear that you will be sailing on the Disney Dream! You and your husband are going to love the ship so much! I believe you are curious about whether or not you can carry on your luggage on boarding day. Disney Cruise Line will allow you to carry your own luggage onboard as long as it fits through the security machines. The DCL security machines look very similar to those used by Royal Caribbean and the airport. (I would assume Carnival also uses the same type of machine, but I have not sailed with them.) So, as long as your bags are the typical carry-on size and NOT huge suitcases, you should be fine. Hope that helps! Have a wonderful trip!

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Disney Cruise Disembarkation -What You Need to Know

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Disney Cruise Disembarkation is not a subject that any of us really wants to think about.

However, the day will come when you have to walk away from your beloved Disney Cruise.

Here are some expert tips to help you deal with Disney Cruise Disembarkation.

Disney Cruise Disembarkation Overview

  You will find lots of tips on how to deal with disembarkation day on a Disney Cruise.

However, some things will vary according to the specific Disney ship and the cruise port.

For example, Disney’s Port Canaveral has different times for your final breakfast and disembarkation in general.

Be sure to check the letter that you will receive in your Disney cruise stateroom .

You can also see our Guide to Disney Cruise Embarkation for more tips about boarding your Disney Cruise.

The Night Before Disembarkation

Unfortunately, you have to start thinking about the end of the cruise on the final day of your cruise!

This is because you have to pack and decide whether you want to deal with carrying your own luggage off the ship or have it done for you.

Your Stateroom Host will have left luggage tags in your stateroom on the penultimate night of your cruise.

All the luggage tags have a different Disney character on them according to which luggage “group” you are in.

Each group has an approximate time that your luggage will be ready to collect in the departure area at the port.

When you checked in online you will have let Disney know how you were getting back home.

If you have an early flight they will prioritize you on the time that the luggage reaches the collection point so that you can get to the airport as early as possible.

If you are simply driving home then you will be at the bottom of the priority list.

This is so that your luggage can be more efficiently processed and Disney can deal with the task of getting thousands of people off the ship and then getting thousands back on!

Here is the official information that is from a Disney Magic Cruise from Miami

If you are asking Disney to deal with your luggage you will have to have your suitcases packed, labeled, and outside your stateroom by a certain time on your final evening.

This is usually some time around 10 pm.

This does mean that you have to be organized on your final day.

Make sure that you do not pack essential items such as your passport or medication.

I usually pack one or two hand luggage bags with essential items so that we can keep these with us and carry them off ourselves.

You also have the option of carrying your luggage yourself.

I sometimes do this, depending on the amount of luggage I have.

The disadvantage is that you have to deal with your own luggage!

If you have large suitcases this can be difficult. The elevators are usually very busy on disembarkation day and it can be difficult to walk around the ship.

It may also be a long walk to the departure hall customs area.

The advantage is that you don’t have to be as organized about what you pack, and you can choose exactly what time you walk off the ship as soon as it is cleared through customs in the morning.

What About Breakfast Time on the Last Day?

You will stay in your rotational dining groups for your final day breakfast.

Just as there is Early and Late Seating for dinner, there is for breakfast.

This is actually one advantage of Late Seating for dinner if you are not an early riser.

Here is the information from Disney Magic that explains the Breakfast Dining Rotation.

As you can see breakfast can be as early as 6.45 am if you have early dining. If you have late dining you will have breakfast at either 8 am or 8.15 am.

This is quite a big time difference at that time in the morning, and may influence your choice of dining rotation!

Breakfast is also available at Cabanas if you just want a buffet.

What Time is Disembarkation on a Disney Cruise?

For Port Canaveral, all guests should have left the Disney Cruise ship by 9.30 am on the morning of disembarkation. 

There will be announcements starting at around 9.00 am asking that you leave the ship.

Cast Members have to turn the ship around very quickly to prepare for the arrival of new passengers.

Remember how you were so anxious to get on the ship on embarkation day? They are now thousands of people outside the ship feeling just the same way!

So help the Cast Members by leaving when you are asked to do so.

And definitely leave no later than 9.30 am. Disney’s San Diego cruise port has a slightly later time.

You need to vacate your stateroom by 8.15 am. Everyone needs to be off the ship by 9.45 am.

Other cruise ports will vary in their times. Check the information which will be left in your stateroom on the day prior to disembarkation.

Remember that all of these times will vary according to the Disney cruise port in which you are disembarking. So always check the information you are given.

Waiting to Disembark a Disney Cruise Ship

There may be some delay between vacating your Disney cruise stateroom, eating breakfast, and actually being able to disembark.

All the luggage tag characters are called out, but if you haven’t heard yours yet you are not yet allowed to disembark.

If you are waiting to disembark you can use the lounges and bar areas to wait.

On the Disney Wonder, I particularly like waiting in the Azure Lounge as it is close to the exit and comfortable to sit in while you wait to be called.

Disembarking a Disney Cruise Ship

Depending upon what time you are leaving, there may be a line to get off the ship.

This usually moves pretty quickly.

On the Classic Ships Disney Wonder and Magic, the lines can back up sometimes towards the French Quarter Lounge.

This makes it difficult for anyone trying to get past that area as the walkway is pretty narrow.

The line always seems to me to move much more efficiently on Disney Fantasy and Dream.

The atrium is so much larger that it can deal with more people without feeling crowded.

You will have your Key To The World Card scanned as you leave the ship.

You can keep it as a souvenir if you want.

Don’t forget to leave your Comment Card in one of the boxes as you leave. Feedback is very important.

Things That First Time Cruisers Do Not Expect

Disney Cruise Lines takes these surveys very seriously.

If you feel that you have been treated exceptionally well by a Cast Member always remember to write this on the Comment Card. Disney Cruise lines read them and sometimes will award Cast Members with extra perks as a result of guest feedback.

If you are disembarking a Disney Cruise at Port Canaveral you will walk into the terminal off the ship.

You then head down the escalators to the luggage claim area.

You will see that there are areas clearly marked with Disney Characters.

So if your luggage label is Daisy Duck, for instance, you will easily be able to see that area. It is usually pretty easy to identify your luggage.

As all bags are out there it isn’t the same waiting game that you play in an airport!

Remember that not all of your luggage will necessarily be together. Try and put a bright identifying luggage tag on it so you can find it quickly.

The only exception is that if you disembark at a port that offers onboard airline check-in and have booked Disney transport to the airport, you will not pick up your bags here. They will already be in transit to the airport.

Disney’s Cruise Port at Cape Canaveral offers onboard airline check-in.

Remember that Disney Cruise Line advises you to book a flight no earlier than 11.30 am on the day of debarkation.

Personally, I think this is really making for a very stressful morning and I would never book it that close in time!

However, I know that many of you have made it in time for a before noon flight – it’s just not for me.

However, not all cruise ports do this. The Port of San Diego, for instance, doesn’t offer this. If you have booked ground transfers to the airport you will pick up your luggage and take it with you.

Whichever port you disembark in you will have to go through customs. Be prepared to show the identification which you used to board the ship.

Make sure you did not pack this in your luggage or you will have a stressful time trying to find this when you arrive in the luggage terminal.

Transportation at Port Canaveral

  Once you leave the Port Canaveral terminal you will connect with your chosen method of transport.

If you have booked Disney Cruise transportation you will exit the terminal and see the distinctive Disney Cruise buses lining up.

You will need to show your Key to the World Card which will note that you have booked Disney transport.

Disney Cruise transportation travels to Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World Resorts.

You will be directed to the right bus.

There are no set times for the buses – it is just first come first served. They will leave when they are at capacity.

If you are traveling to a Walt Disney World Resort the bus will most likely be driving to more than one resort.

This means it can take quite a considerable time to get to your Walt Disney World Hotel unless you are fortunate enough to be on the first stop!

All guests who have booked Walt Disney World transport to a Resort can disembark the cruise ship between 7.30 am and 9.15 am.

If you are participating in the Online Airline Check-in you will receive specific instructions in your stateroom prior to disembarkation day.

If you have a flight that leaves Orlando International Airport prior to 1.00 pm you must disembark the ship prior to 8.00 am. If you don’t do this Disney will pull your bags and you will have to check them in yourself at the airport.

If you haven’t booked Disney transportation you will walk outside the terminal and proceed to your chosen method of transport.

The shuttles to car rental places are available near the Disney Cruise buses.

Taxis and Ubers are also available outside the terminal.

If you left your car in the Port Canaveral Parking Lot you simply walk over from the terminal and find your car.

If you are staying at a Port Canaveral Hotel many of them have a shuttle. Make sure you check this when you book.

Do you have any Disney Cruise Disembarkation Day tips?

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.

Tuesday 21st of May 2024

Did they bring back the Disney Bed Pillows on the new ships or are the just old pictures?

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Unfortunately they are older pictures on this one. They no longer have the red pillows.

Disney Cruise Embarkation - Tips Tricks and Hacks - EverythingMouse Guide To Disney

Sunday 28th of July 2019

[…] By Alison […]

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• Disney Cruise Line / News

What to Expect on Your Disney Cruise: Embarkation Day

by Allison Fricker · March 16, 2024

Your bags are packed, your passport is ready, and the day you’ve been waiting for has FINALLY arrived! Yes, it’s Embarkation Day, and today you set sail on your long-awaited, much-anticipated, magical Disney cruise! 

Photo: Disney

Disney Cruise Line offers a range of exciting itineraries on a fleet of enchanting ships, including Disney Dream , Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Fantasy , and Disney Wish . 

No matter which ship is your (floating) home away from home, Embarkation Day can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’ve never cruised before. Luckily, MickeyBlog is here to help you sort it all out ahead of time so you can tackle Embarkation Day feeling calm, confident, and totally in control. 

Credit: Disney

Come along with us as we tackle Embarkation Day on the Disney Fantasy!

Make Embarkation Day Easier With Pre-Arrival Services

A seamless and stress-free Embarkation Day begins WAY before you set foot on your Disney Cruise Line ship. In fact, you can begin Disney’s online check-in process somewhere between 30 and 40 days before your sailing date. 

Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club Membership Levels

To determine when your online check-in process begins, refer to your Castaway Club membership level. Pearl Members (guests with 25 Disney Cruise Line sailings under their belts) can begin the online check-in process 40 days before sailing, while first-timers can check in 30 days out.

When your check-in window arrives, you’ll begin Disney’s online check-in process. 

Disney Cruise Line Online Check-In

This involves submitting all required documentation as required by the Disney Cruise Line website . Depending on your itinerary, this may include a valid driver’s license, passport, and/or birth certificate.

As part of the check-in process, you will also enter payment information (for use during your sailing) and your expected port arrival time.

Disney Cruise Line Port of Arrival Time

Disney’s online check-in process also allows you to select your seating time for dining. You’ll choose between an earlier seating time (like the 5:45 PM option pictured below) or a seating later in the evening. 

If an early seating time is important to you, be sure to complete your online check-in as early as possible, as the Main Seating sometimes hits capacity.

Disney Cruise Line Seating Selection

Finally, online check-in allows guests to input information about their traveling party, make arrangements for kids’ clubs, and complete other family-specific forms. 

Disney Cruise Line Guest Information

When the process is finalized, you will receive verification that your online check-in is complete.

Disney Cruise Line Check-In Process

You will also receive a cruise contract along with a Port Arrival Form. Be sure to bring the Port Arrival form with you on Embarkation Day! 

Disney Cruise Line Check-In Finalized

Pack the form, along with your driver’s license, birth certificate/passport, and MagicBand+/DisneyBand+ SEPARATELY from the rest of your luggage.

You will be separated from your luggage during the embarkation process and will need these items on your person as you board the ship.

Health Questionnaire

Another big part of preparing for a Disney Cruise is the health questionnaire! You MUST complete this before boarding — they will not let you board your ship without it completed.

You will typically receive an email prompting you to complete the health questionnaire on the morning of your Embarkation Day. 

The health questionnaire involves three routine questions about the health status of everyone in your party, and it can be completed online.

Cast Members will check at the terminal to see if you completed your health questionnaire. If you don’t, you will be directed to Guest Services.

We recommend keeping your eyes peeled on your email to keep the process moving smoothly!

Navigating Embarkation Day

On Embarkation Day, you’ll arrive at your departure port with your documentation, Port Arrival form, and your MagicBand+/DisneyBand+ in hand.

Disney Cruise Line Terminal

As you step into the terminal, you may be asking yourself…now what?

Hopefully, you’ve heeded Disney’s instructions and arrived no more than 30 minutes before your listed port arrival time. Upon arrival, follow the posted signage and prepare to enter the terminal.

Disney Cruise Line Port Arrival Signs

This is where Embarkation Day truly begins! 

Note that we boarded from the Port Canaveral terminal, so your terminal location may look a bit different, but the boarding process is generally the same for every sailing. 

Disney Cruise Line Embarkation

Once inside, you’ll join another line (sound familiar?).

Have your documentation ready, as you’ll need it at the first checkpoint. This is where Disney Cast Members will check your Port Arrival form, verify your required forms of identification, and link your MagicBand+/DisneyBand+ to your reservation.

Disney Cruise Line Embarkation Day

With your documents cleared, you’ll continue on to security and then head upstairs.

On the second floor, you’ll find Guest Services, where you can address any issues or concerns. This is also where you’ll find the Mickey-shaped entrance to the gangway!

Disney Cruise Line Gangway Entrance

Stop for an Embarkation Day photo op before proceeding through the Mickey entrance! Just inside the entrance, Cast Members will scan your Port Arrival form or your MagicBand+/DisneyBand+.  

Then, you will continue across the gangway.

Disney Cruise Line Gangway

On the other side of the gangway, you’ll join one last line before boarding the ship.

When your turn arrives, your family name will be announced in the ship’s beautiful atrium — and your magical Disney cruise will officially begin!

Disney Fantasy Atrium

Kick off your vacation by exploring the ship or grabbing a bite to eat while you wait for your stateroom to be ready. 

While staterooms are generally ready between 1:30PM – 2:00PM, the timeframe can vary by ship and by day. When your room is available, you’ll find your Key to the World card right outside your door.

Disney Cruise Line Key to the World Card

Be sure to note the letter that appears on your Key to the World card. This letter corresponds to your muster drill station and will be important during your (very mandatory!) muster drill.

Most Disney Cruise Line muster drills occur sometime around 4PM, but be sure to check your DCL Navigator app for an exact time. Once the muster drill is over, the party truly begins!

Disney Cruise Line Sail Away Party

Head to the pool deck to enjoy the festive Sail Away Party with Mickey, Minnie, and all their friends!

Disney characters (dressed up in their best nautical gear!) perform a song and dance, followed by a boisterous countdown to departure. Listen for the horn as your ship pulls away from port!

(Note that the Sail Away Party is a little different on every ship.)

Sail Away Party on Disney Fantasy

With Embarkation Day behind you, you’re free to enjoy all the food, entertainment, and Disney magic your cruise has to offer! 

Thanks for visiting http://MickeyBlog.com! Want to go to Disney? For a FREE quote on  your next Disney vacation , please fill out the form below, and one of the agents from MickeyTravels, a Diamond-Level Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, will be in touch soon!

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DCL Guide Disembarkation Miami and Port Canaveral

Last Updated on February 6, 2020

There are some important steps that should be taken in order to have an enjoyable and stress-free Disney Cruise Line disembarkation in Port Canaveral.

Part of that planning includes, how you are going to leave the cruise after your holiday is over, foreshadowing the end to fun sucks, but is super important.

Here we will detail a well-planned disembarkation process for your Disney Cruise vacation.

Making Debarkation Day Stressless

On the last full day of your cruise, there will be a video showing on one of the TV channels that spells out (in major detail) the disembarkation process.

In this video, the cruise director details everything you need to know.  They play this on a loop, all day for your convenience, so you will definitely be able to find the information that interests you.

Choose a Flight Time That’s Right for You

The last piece of the puzzle in making Debarkation Day go smoothly is your travel home.  For passengers that are flying home that day, Disney Cruise Line recommends that you not book a flight earlier than 11:30 am.  This will give you enough time to exit the ship, clear customs and make your way to the airport.

Because there are other guests boarding soon after you, and your fellow passengers debark, Disney wants everyone off as soon as possible so linger onboard is not an option. Don’t count on last-minute photo Ops, as it is a busy time for the ship.

Remember many airlines won’t allow you to check in until 4 hours (sometimes even 2 hours) before your flight departure time. Plan accordingly.

Disembarkation Information Letter

The night before you disembark is typically Pirate night onboard Disney Cruise Line ships. This is when your Stateroom Attendant will bring your disembarkation information letter. This is personalized to your holiday; including luggage tags, Magical Express information and anything else you will need to know in order to have a smooth transition from the ship.

Character Luggage Tags

Along with your disembarkation information letter, you will receive a number of character luggage tags. These are to be placed on the luggage you place outside of your door the night before disembarkation. Your luggage will be taken away around 10 pm and you will not see it again until the next morning once you have left the ship.

It is imperative that you remember which character, and colour , you are. Once you have disembarked, you will be directed to the cruise terminal building which will have large signs. Find your character and colour, and you will soon find your luggage.

Onboard Airline Check-in Debarkation Information / Airline Boarding Passes / Airline Luggage Tags (US Only)

With Disney Cruise Line’s onboard airline check-in program you can have your boarding passes printed for you on the ship and your checked luggage picked up from your stateroom, not to be seen again until you reach your destination airport. This is a complimentary service for eligible travellers.

Important Items of Note:

General requirements:.

• Be prepared for possible airline baggage fees which vary by carrier. Any applicable airline baggage fees will be added direct`ly to your shipboard account .
• Each piece of luggage can weigh no more than 50 lbs. (23 Kg.)
• You must have purchased DCL Ground Transporation.
• This is only for those disembarking in Port Canaveral or Miami after the cruise.
• Disney Cruise Line asks that you print the Onboard Airline Check-In form from the Disney Cruise Line site and present it during check-in.

Port Canaveral:

• Your flight must depart from Orlando International Airport (MCO) on the same day of disembarkation after 11:25 AM.
• You must be flying with one of these participating airlines: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, or United Airlines (Domestic Destinations Only).
• Your flight must depart from Miami International Airport on the same day of disembarkation after 11:30 AM.
• There are weight and quantity restrictions on your luggage and fees will be charged to your onboard account
• You must be flying with one of these participating airlines: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, or United Airlines (Domestic Destinations Only).

Avoid lines at Shutters and Guest Services

On the last night of your cruise, everyone will queue to look through their photos at the onboard photo service Shutters lines may be quite long. If at all possible, take care of this earlier in the day. 

Attend the first See Ya’ Real Soon party

It’s a neat chance to get one last photo with the characters, as well as enjoy a farewell wave from all the characters onboard.  Often (but not always), two of these events are offered – one at 4:30 pm and one at 10:15 pm.  If you have the choice, attend the 4:30 show.  In our experience, it will be much less crowded, because people are just getting back on board from the day or still in their staterooms getting ready for dinner.

You have 3 choices with your luggage.

Express Walk Off

The first is to carry ALL of your luggage off the ship yourself, which DCL calls “Express Walk Off” .  If you do this, you do not need to use the character luggage tags that were left in your room.

Luggage Pickup in the Cruise Terminal

The second choice is what you need to do if you wish to claim your luggage in the cruise terminal building the next morning.  To do this you must put your luggage in the hallway, right outside your room door, no later than 10:00 PM on the last night of your cruise.  Be sure to put the character luggage tags on before you do this.  We always leave 2 carry -on bags with us so that we can put our toiletries and pyjamas in them the next morning. Also, don’t forget to leave a change of clothes out to wear the next day so that you don’t have to wear your pyjamas off the ship.

Onboard Airline Check-in

The third choice is what you need to do if you are participating in onboard airline check-in (and thus taking DCL transfers to the airport).  You need to put the airline luggage tags on your bags and put your luggage in the hallway, right outside your room door, no later than 10:00 PM on the last night.  You will not see them again until you get to your home airport.  You already have your boarding passes, so when you get to the airport the next morning, all you have to do is get off the bus and walk straight to security.

Debarkation Breakfast

You have 2 choices for breakfast unless you are concierge , and then you have 3.  

Main Dining Room

Your first option is to go to the main dining room at your assigned time and be served by your servers one last time.  If you have early dining, your breakfast will be about 6:45.  If you have late dining, it will be about 8:00. You will go to the same restaurant where you dined the night before on the final night of your cruise.  

If you do this, they will ask you not to leave any luggage in your room when you leave for breakfast so that your stateroom host can start cleaning your room ASAP. This means that you will have to bring your carry-ons with you if you set your luggage out the night before, or all of your luggage if you plan to do Express Walk Off.  There will be an area outside of the restaurant where everyone places their luggage while dining.

Buffet Restaurant Cabanas

Your second choice is to go to the buffet restaurant, Cabanas, for breakfast.

Order Room Service | Sailing Concierge ONLY

If you are sailing concierge, you have a third option .  You can order room service, but you will only be able to get cold items (fruit, cereal, pastries, etc).  All other mornings you can order hot items like pancakes, waffles, bacon, omelets, french toast, etc. but not on the final morning.  There will also be light breakfast offerings in the concierge lounge.

Important Timings

10:00 PM  the night before disembarking – all luggage must be in hallway unless you want to carry it off the ship.

6:45 AM  – Your breakfast time in the main dining room if you have early dining.

7:00 AM  – Buffet restaurant on the pool deck opens.

7:00-7:45 AM  – the most likely time range that the ship will be cleared by customs and an announcement will be made that those doing Express Walk Off may leave the ship.  It could be later than this but not likely.

8:00 AM  – You and your stuff must be out of your stateroom.

8:00 AM  – Your breakfast time in the main dining room if you have late dining.

9:00 AM  – If you are still on the ship, crew members will begin asking you nicely to leave.

Leaving the Ship

Your room key will be scanned one last time and there will be boxes as you leave for you to drop your comment cards into.  You will enter the terminal and go down an escalator into the luggage room.  

If you put your luggage out the night before and need to get it, you need to remember which character was on your luggage tags.  The room is very large and has sections labelled with a sign for each character.

Go to that section and look for your luggage.  They try to have all of your bags together in one spot so it should be quick and easy to locate all of your bags.  There will be porters available with carts to help you with your luggage if you need them. Once you have all of your luggage, you (and your porter if you use one) will proceed to the customs line. 

This is a good time to make sure you have a little bit of cash left. Don’t forget to tip your Porter accordingly.

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Disney Cruise Line Debarkation Information

by Key to the World Travel Sep 24, 2019

You have just had a fabulous time on your Disney Cruise Line® cruise, and now sadly it is time to say goodbye. You will be heading off the ship to Port Canaveral for the final time in the morning, and soon thereafter a whole new set of Guests will set sail. In order to get the ship turned around, and ready to head out, Disney Cruise Line has put some procedures in place to make it smooth for everyone. Here is a quick overview of some important debarkation procedures.

Express Walk-Off

For Guests who wish to debark the ship early to make the most of their day, or catch an early flight, there is an option for you. Once the ship has been cleared by local authorities, you can walk off the ship with your own luggage and head directly to passport control. Please note that with this option you do not need to wait for your luggage inside the terminal building, but there will also be no assistance provided by the onboard crew or shoreside representatives. If you choose to take this option, you should meet in the Lobby Atrium of the ship by 7 am with all of your luggage, and wait for instructions.

For all other guests, you may put your luggage outside your stateroom the night before you debark, and then pick it up in the terminal. Character colored luggage tags will be provided to you by your room steward. These should be filled out with your name, stateroom, address, and the number of bags. Bags need to be outside your stateroom between 8:30 and 10:30 pm, or you will need to be hand-carried in the morning.

You will not have access to your luggage once you place it outside, so be sure to keep valuables, medicines, electronics, keys, your passport/birth certificate, cash, and Key to the World card in your day bag. You will also want to keep any items you need for the morning (toothbrush, combs, change of clothes, etc) as well.

Your luggage will be placed in colored zones, according to your stateroom number, for easy recognition in the port terminal. Porters will be available to assist you as you pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Please keep in mind that the porters are employed by an independent company, so it is customary to provide a gratuity in recognition of their service.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

After collecting your luggage, all Guests (both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens) in your party will need to present themselves for inspection with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Guests are required to have proof of citizenship in hand. To expedite this process, please have the head of the household present all documentation together to the officer. Non-U.S. Guests entering on the Visa Waiver Program must present their passports and the ESTA approval form. Non-U.S. Guests with Travel Visas must present their passports and travel documents. 

Guests only need to complete a U.S. Customs Declaration Form if they have something to declare. They are available in multiple languages at the Guest Services Desk onboard the ship. Completed Customs Declaration Forms must be presented together with citizenship documentation to the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Officer.

Here are the customs rules. For specific questions, please go to the Guest Relations desk onboard the ship.

• Total Duty-Free Allowance per person is $800. Your total purchases in ports of call or on the ship may be combined in any way to make up the $800 limit per person.
• Total Liquor Allowance per person over the age of 21 is one liter.
• Tobacco Allowance per person over the age of 18 is one carton (200 cigarettes) and 100 cigars
• Currency or monetary instruments over $10,000 U.S. or foreign equivalent.
• In accordance with Federal Law, NO fruits, foodstuffs or plant materials may be brought back into the United States. Heavy fines may be imposed on Guests found with these items. Green Palm handicrafts are discouraged for possible red mite infestation.

Breakfast will be served in the same restaurant where you were scheduled to dine on the last evening of your cruise, and according to your dining time. Guests on First Seating will eat at 6:45 am, Second Seating at 8:00 am. Please be prompt! Cabanas will also be open for breakfast. Cove Cafe will have limited hours for specialty coffees as well. There will be no room service available on debarkation morning. Please be sure to remember to bring your day bag (and any other luggage) with you to the restaurant, as you will be asked to debark the ship following breakfast

Before You Leave

There are several things you will want to take care of before leaving the ship.

• Ensure your stateroom safe is left open when you leave your stateroom. All Guests must vacate their room by 8:00 am and debark the ship by 9:15 am.
• If you placed a credit card on your account, there is no need to visit Guest Services, as your account will automatically be charged. However, if you are on a cash account, or wish to use an alternate form of payment, please settle your account prior to 7 am on debarkation day. A copy of your shipboard account will be delivered to your stateroom by 7 am.
• If you wish to return your Oceaneer Band, please visit Disney’s Oceaneer Club or Disney’s Oceaneer Lab  before 11 pm on the final night of your cruise to receive credit. You may also choose to keep your Oceaneer band as a souvenir.
• Shutters Photo Gallary will be open from 7 am – 9 am on debark morning, for photo and USB sales only. All other merchandise shops will be closed.
• All lost and found items can be found at the Guest Services Desk. 
• Guests who purchased alcohol in the shipboard Duty-Free Shop or had alcohol collected at any of the ports, may retrieve these items at the desk located near the gangway between 7 am and 9:15 am.
• Remember to deposit your comment card in the boxes provided outside each restaurant and by the gangway. 

Transportation

Continuous bus transfers to Orlando International Airport (MCO) will be available upon arrival in Port Canaveral for all Guests who have purchased air or ground transfers through Disney Cruise Line ®. You will need to claim your luggage in the terminal, proceed through U.S. Customs and Border Patrol after which time you and your luggage will board the same bus back to Orlando International Airport. Airline check-in will be done at the airport, and you will need to present your Key to the World Card to board the bus. If you are participating in the Onboard Airline Check-in program, please follow the instructions provided with your boarding pass information packet that will be delivered to your stateroom. If you have a flight scheduled prior to 1:00 pm, you must debark the ship no later than 8:00 am.

Guests continuing their vacation with transfers to the Walt Disney World ® Resort hotels should disembark the ship no later than 8:15 am. The motorcoach departs promptly at 9:00 am.

Guests who parked at the port, at local parking garages, or are being picked up by private driver should follow the signs upon exiting the terminal.

Have a safe journey home!

All Key to the World Travel ® planners are experts and offer the highest level of exemplary customer service. Contact your travel planner to book your vacation, or click here to request a quote today!

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Debarkation Day on the Disney Cruise Line – What You Need to Know

The final day on a Disney Cruise is the dreaded debarkation day. Ending your vacation is never fun and leaving a ship as fabulous as one of the Disney Cruise Line is even harder. However, leaving a cruise ship is not as quick or straightforward as leaving a hotel room. There is a process that must be followed and can be confusing to first-time cruisers. Read all about the debarkation day below.

1 – It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye

The process for your debarkation begins the day before you leave the ship. Late afternoon on the last full day of your cruise, instructions on debarkation along with luggage tags will be delivered to your stateroom. The debarkation process will vary by passenger, and it really depends on your travel schedule the following day and how much you want to carry with you when you leave the ship. For instance, if you have an early flight the following day, you might choose to leave differently than if you have your car parked and no deadlines to make.

2 – Pack the Day Before

If you have a lot of luggage with you, or very large items, then you probably won’t want to carry these bags off the ship yourself. In this case, you’ll pack the majority of your items on your last day and leave your luggage in the hallway the last night to be picked up and carried off the ship by the crew. You will receive color-coded luggage tags (with a corresponding Disney character) to attach to your luggage with your debarkation instructions. Remember this color and Disney character. After leaving the ship you will claim your luggage in the area corresponding to that color/character.

Usually, you need to have our bags in the hall no later than 10:30 pm. This gives Cast Members time to pick up all luggage and prepare it for customs once the ship gets into port the next morning. Be sure you have a carry-on bag for anything you’ll need the following morning such as your toiletries, electronics, valuables, and clothing. DO NOT pack your Key to the World card or passport. You will need both to be exit the ship and clear customs!

The other option for packing is just to keep all of your bags and carry them off with you. If you choose this option, you will need to leave with the first group of passengers debarking (Express Walk-Off). This can be a good idea if you sailed with very little luggage or if you have a very early flight with a tight travel window. If you do not plan to leave the ship with the first group, let the crew handle your luggage. Elevators will be packed, and you will likely end up carrying your luggage up or down the stairs.

3 – All Ashore That’s Going Ashore!

If you haven’t cruised before, you may be surprised to learn that you can’t just leave the ship whenever you want. Because of US Customs and regulations, guests must be cleared to leave the ship. There are two options to leaving the ship: leave as soon as possible (Express Walk-Off) or leave later with your assigned group. Either way, plan on a very early morning! There is no sleeping in on your last day! The crew and cast members only have a few hours to turn around the ship for the next cruise, so the morning begins bright and early.

4 – Option 1-Express Walk-Off

If you choose to keep your bags with you and just simply want to get on the road as early as possible, you’ll want to plan on leaving the ship early with the first group. For this option, keep your bags with you. You will have no assistance in getting them off the ship, so make sure you have enough hands to carry all of your luggage. Guests using this option still have to be cleared by local authorities and wait for the Express Walk-Off announcement to leave the ship. For our cruise, guests using this option could expect to leave around 7:00 am.

5 – Option 2-Luggage Assistance with Breakfast

For those who want luggage assistance and breakfast, you’ll need to pack your bags and get them into the hallway as described above in #2. You’ll be eating breakfast in the same dining room you ate dinner on the last night. For instance, for our cruise, we ate at Royal Palace for the late seating (8:15 pm) the night before. Therefore, our breakfast time was 8:00 am in the same dining room. Guests who had the first seating for dinner were scheduled for breakfast at 6:45 am. For this option, be prepared to bring all remaining luggage items with you to breakfast. Once you leave your stateroom, you won’t be able to go back. After breakfast, you will wait for your color/character to be announced. While breakfast at Cabanas was not advertised, we did find it was open for guests who wanted a more flexible breakfast. We ate at Royal Palace because we had the time and because we wanted to say thank you and goodbye to our wonderful servers who we had gotten to know throughout the week.

6 – Early Flights

Note that those who have an early flight do not necessarily need to use the Express Walk-Off option. Guests with flights out of the nearest airport before 12:00 pm are considered to be early flights.

If you have an early flight and want luggage assistance, you need to contact Guest Services for an early debarkation luggage tag. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to Guest Services.

Future cruising tip: if at all possible, you’ll save yourself a whole lot of stress if you have an afternoon flight. There is a lot you can’t control, like when you will be cleared to leave the ship and traffic getting to the airport. Better to wait at the airport than miss your flight!

7 – US Customs

On our first Disney cruise, after breakfast, we waited about thirty minutes for our color/character to be called. On this cruise, as soon as we finished breakfast, all colors had been cleared, so we could leave the ship right away. We lined up and, sadly, walked the plank. Our Key to the World cards were scanned as we left to ensure all passengers disembark. We were then directed to retrieve our luggage. After collecting our bags, we presented ourselves to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. Again, you’ll need to have proof of citizenship, your passport or a driver’s license and birth certificate, in hand and ready for inspection. If you have something to declare, a declaration form is also required. Rules on what needs to be declared are included in your debarkation instructions. Make sure your party is together to expedite the process.

8 – Transportation from Port

Disney has options for guests needing a transfer to the nearest airports. You can purchase transfers ahead of time, and you will be directed to a motorcoach to board. There are also plenty of taxis and other transportation options at the port. We prefer Uber or Lyft to pre-arranged transfers.

For a no obligation, FREE Quote on a Disney vacation package, please contact our travel partner Magical Vacation Planner at 407-442-0227 (407-442-0215 for Spanish). You can also request a FREE quote online by Clicking HERE.

Chad & Cindy Nykamp

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Hi, what happens on disembarkation day? I’m travelling from Southampton to La Rochelle on the Disney Dream and it’s our first every cruise! Do we need to bring out suitcases with us? Do we have to disembark in groups? How do we arrange for taxis? ”

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Ten Things You Can Do on Cruise Disembarkation Day if You Have a Late Flight Home

Most major cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Line, require guests to disembark early in the morning, typically before 9:00 a.m. Depending on where you live, the next available or affordable flight home might not be until late afternoon, or even late evening. So what do you do when you’ve 8, 10, 12 or more hours to kill after you disembark your ship?

Also note that a primary concern of many guests in this situation is, “What do I do with my luggage?” You may have plenty of time to explore that fun attraction near your disembarkation port, but it might not be practical, or even possible, with a week’s worth of cruise luggage and souvenirs in hand.

In most cases, the easiest solution to this problem is to rent a car. Virtually all major cruise ports have rental car offices nearby. (For example at Port Canaveral, National, Avis, and Enterprise have an office that’s accessible via a free five-minute shuttle ride.) If you have a car, you can keep you luggage in the trunk, get to where you want to go, and then return the car at the airport prior to your flight.

However, if you don’t or can’t drive, some alternatives might be:

• See if you can drop your bags at the airport before you go exploring. Double check with your airline because some carriers or airports only allow bags to be checked in a few hours in advance.
• Consider whether you can use a luggage courier service like LugLess or ShipSticks.
• Investigate whether your destination has a nearby luggage storage service. There are numerous reputable luggage storage venues in major cities. They typically charge a per-bag fee of $5-8 per day. Some names to investigate include Vertoe Luggage Storage ,  Bounce Luggage Storage , or Luggage Hero. 

The tips below assume that you’ve sailed out of Port Canaveral, Florida and are flying out of Orlando International Airport (MCO), but variations on many of them apply to any situation where you have a significant amount of time to kill.

Also note that Disney Cruise Line offers fee-based bus service from the port to at least one nearby major airport.

1. Visit the Kennedy Space Center.

Kennedy Space Center is about 15 miles from Port Canaveral. Guests of all ages can easily be entertained here for several hours, learning all about the American space program. Consider buying tickets in advance.

2. Go to the beach.

If you haven’t gotten enough beach time during your cruise, there are plenty of beaches near Port Canaveral, including the adjacent Jetty Park . Top off you tan, swim in the surf, and generally finish off your travels in relaxation mode.

3. Do some work in the airport lounge.

Sometimes when vacation is over, it’s over right away. If you’ve got to get back to work, consider buying a day pass to an airport lounge. Most have quiet areas and reliable WiFi where you can start drafting cover sheets for your TPS reports.

4. Get a  hotel room.

The Orlando Airport Hyatt offers day rates for weary travelers. Use the room to shower and nap, watch the planes in comfort, or take the kiddos to the hotel pool.

You could also get the least expensive room available at Walt Disney World. Even though check-in doesn’t start until 3:00 in most cases, hotel guests are allowed to use all the facilities at the resort beginning in the wee hours of the morning on check-in day. This will get you access to the hotel’s pool and other amenities and no one will care if you don’t actually stay overnight.

Or consult a service like Dayuse which offers partial-day hotel rentals in areas around the globe.

5. Visit a theme park, water park, or other entertainment venue.

The Greater Orlando area obviously has no shortage of theme parks, water parks, and other exciting attractions. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Sea World are the biggies, but there is also Gatorland, Dinosaur World, Legoland, ICON Park, and FunSport America within an hour or so of the Orlando airport.

In other locations, look for activities like go-kart parks, carnivals, rock-climbing centers, escape rooms, movie theaters, bowling alleys, or similar.

6. Visit an actual park.

In Orlando, Lake Eola Park and the Harry P. Leu Gardens offer pleasant places to stroll and explore.

7. Go shopping.

The Disney Springs shopping, dining, and entertainment area is an obvious choice in Orlando. But if you’re looking for deals, you may want to visit Orlando International Premium Outlets, Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets, or Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores. The Lakeland Antique Mall often has vintage Disney-related items for a steal.

The Lake Buena Vista Outlet Mall has luggage storage location on site. Reservations are required.

8. Go to a museum.

Orlando is home to education museums such as the Orlando Science Center, the Orlando Museum of Art, and the Orange County Regional History Center, as well as entertainment-oriented “museums” such as Madame Tussauds, the Museum of Illusions, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Your choice might depend on whether you have children in tow.

Most municipalities located near cruise ports have at least a few museums of both sorts.

9. Go to a zoo.

If you have animal lovers in your group and don’t want to venture into Disney’s Animal Kingdom or Sea World, consider the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens or the more contained Green Meadows Petting Farm.

10. Play minigolf.

The Orlando area is teeming with minigolf courses. There are two on Disney property (Fantasia Gardens and Winter Summerland), but other options include Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, Congo River Golf, and Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf.

Have you ever had a late flight home after a cruise? How did you spend your day?

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Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

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Ports & Port Adventures Excursions – Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I decide to disembark at a port of call and not return to the ship?

Guests choosing to disembark in a foreign port and not return to the ship should make sure that they meet all of the documentation and entry requirements of that country. In some instances, Guests may be assessed a fine or penalty according to local or national regulations.

U.S. citizens should consult the U.S. State Department’s Travel page for details relating to the requirements for entering specific countries and territories.

Except as stipulated in the Disney Cruise Line contract , no adjustments to the price of a cruise will be made for Guests not completing the full itinerary.

Did you find this answer helpful?

Related Questions

Are there limits to the amount of duty-free merchandise that I may bring into the U.S. from the Bahamas?

What is the procedure for getting on and off the ship while we’re in port?

Do I have to submit a U.S. Customs Declaration Form at the end of my cruise?

Visiting the New Disney Cruise Line Terminal in Fort Lauderdale

In November 2023, Disney Cruise Line announced the opening of the new terminal in Port Everglades, Broward County, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

This terminal is the second official for Disney Cruise Line and is part of a 15-year partnership between the company and Broward County, with three 5-year extension options, so we’re safe to say that there will be a DCL terminal in that location for a while.

Back in 2021, Forbes published an article regarding Fort Lauderdale’s potential growth over the next ten years. Therefore, Disney Cruise Line is also betting on this city, making it more attractive for local and foreign tourists looking to vacation in Florida.

The terminal address is 1800 SE 20th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 3331 Port Everglades Cruise Terminal 4.

It is approximately 15 minutes by taxi or Uber from the airport or from the Brightline train station.

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the terminal to board the Disney Dream, which is the first ship to have its operation based in Port Everglades.

I invite you to take a tour of the new terminal facilities.

Arriving at the Terminal

The ship welcomes you to the dream vacation that is about to begin.

After going through the port entrance/checkpoint, you enter the building, the parking is large and covered, which is very appreciated since it protects visitors from the sun, rain and the weather in general.

Terminal workers will receive the luggage. If you do not have Disney Cruise Line tags, they will provide you with the necessary ones

A few meters away you reach the entrance to the boarding area, as soon as you enter, you can see the Disney theme in the murals that welcome you to this new space.

Boarding Process

After walking through the corridors, you reach the main area, where the boarding process begins, it is a very large and spacious area.

This area is themed based on the Disney Pixar film Finding Nemo, with well-known characters from the film, the ceiling resembles thousands of bubbles as if we were submerging underwater, note that you can find several “hidden Mickeys”.

The atmosphere in the terminal is bustling, happy, and the excitement for the journey that will soon begin is palpable.

A good number of Crew Members are at stations to check passengers’ documentation, this process is relatively quick.

After the carry-on luggage security check process, you pass through the official photo area, and then take the electric stairs (or elevator for those who require it) and in a few minutes you are on board the ship!

Disembarkation

When the trip ends, the disembarkation process is relatively quick. You exit the ship from the same place you entered, take the escalators (or elevator) this time downwards and suddenly you will find yourself in the area where the luggage has been placed. This area is as large and wide as the boarding area.

After collecting the luggage, you will proceed to the last area, which is the Customs Department. At the end you will find yourself in the area outside the terminal where there is signage to take transportation, be it taxi, Uber, or shuttle.

In general, the terminal offers adequate spaces for passengers, and fulfills the purpose of facilitating the process of boarding and disembarking from cruise ships.

If you want to live the experience of a Disney Cruise, I recommend you book it with Dreams Unlimited Travel , where you will get free advice from a travel agent specialized in Disney destinations and you will receive an on-board credit depending on the amount of the cruise.

Have a magical vacation!

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• Destination Weddings

You Can Get Married on a Cruise Ship — Here's How to Plan Your Nautical Wedding

Here's what you need to know about tying the knot at sea.

• What to Know

Wedding Packages and Services

Planning the ceremony and reception, guest accommodations and activities, tips for planning a cruise wedding.

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If you and your future spouse love to set sail and explore new locales, getting married at sea may be the perfect option for your wedding — and it comes with plenty of built-in benefits and amenities. What’s more, explains T+L A-List travel advisor and Q Cruise + Travel president Rob Clabbers, “The advantage of a wedding on a ship is that a lot of amenities and facilities are available — albeit it an extra charge in some cases: beautiful spaces, photographers, musicians, DJs, flowers, wedding assistants, bars and restaurants, the option to arrange a separate meal/buffet for your guests, a salon and spa to get ready for a ceremony, and, of course, a ‘built-in’ honeymoon.” Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement or a larger celebration, we tapped several experts to provide insight on everything you need to know about cruise weddings, including the costs, the logistics, accommodations and amenities, and more.

What to Know 

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Once you’ve officially decided to say “I do” at sea, there are several factors to keep in mind. “At a minimum,” says Farah Barhorst, a director at Holland America Line , “couples should know where, when, and how they want to get married, in addition to the number of guests they would like in attendance.” She notes that many cruise lines put limits on how many visitors can board the ship who aren't sailing its full itinerary, so knowing how many guests plan to join you for your wedding only is crucial. Of course, couples should also consider their desired wedding location as, per the pro, “guest capacity is also limited based on the destination or port.”

As Clabbers explains, you also need to consider the laws of both the country where you'll be located when you get married and the country that runs your ship. “Many cruise ships are registered in the Bahamas, Bermuda, or Malta,” Clabbers notes, meaning “the laws of [that] specific country would apply to any ceremonies performed on board once the ship is in international waters.” There may then be limits on where same-sex ceremonies can take place. “Since the Bahamas and Bermuda, for example, don’t recognize same-sex marriage, same-sex couples can’t get legally married at sea on ships registered in those countries. They could potentially get married while in port in the U.S.A. or certain places in Europe,” he says.

For these and other reasons, Keith Willard , a wedding planner specializing in destination weddings, stresses the importance of planning ahead. "The first thing that many overlook is the marriage certificate itself," he says. "The easiest thing to do is to get a marriage license within 60 days of your wedding and bring it with you.” Stacey Johnston , a travel advisor at Marvelous Mouse Travels, echoes these sentiments, explaining that “you will need to arrange for the marriage license ahead of your cruise from the port or the departure location depending on where you are getting married.”

To avoid mishaps with locations and licenses, some couples choose to have a wedding celebration on a cruise but get legally married elsewhere. On a Holland America Line ship, for instance, “The captain can perform a ‘symbolic’ ceremony that is not legally binding,” says Barhorst. If you want the wedding-at-sea experience with fewer logistical headaches, a compromise like this may be for you.

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According to Clabbers, “Many cruise lines that offer weddings will provide a range of packages to choose from, with ceremonies from two to over 100 attendees that may include the services from the officiant, a celebration venue, recorded or live music, a cake, Champagne or other beverages for guests, a dinner for the wedding couple, and other extras.” To provide to-be-weds with a better idea of what to expect, we’ve compiled a few packages from several cruise lines.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line currently offers a handful of wedding packages , including the Symbolic at Sea Package, which, per Barhorst, includes a non-legal ceremony performed by the captain or an officer; coordination by both onboard and pre-cruise wedding coordinators; recorded ceremony music; a keepsake wedding certificate; basic photography service, including one 8” x 10” photo of choice and a commemorative wedding album; sparkling wine; a nine-inch wedding cake; and a bridal bouquet with a dozen roses and a matching groom’s boutonniere. The Anchors Away Package includes all of the above but with a legal ceremony (led by a non-denominational officiant), as well as priority check-in for the couple during embarkation. Lastly, couples craving a true destination wedding can book the Ashore Package, which “lets couples officially tie the knot on a beach, garden, or glacier location,” says Barhorst. “A seasonal bridal bouquet and boutonniere will be provided in addition to a pre-cruise and ashore wedding coordinator to ensure all runs smoothly.”

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises offers three distinct packages to choose from via its Princess Perfect Weddings department. The Perfect Pair Package includes the couple and up to two guests, while the ceremony-only package, aptly named Timeless Ceremony at Sea, includes the couple and up to eight guests. Lastly, the Timeless Wedding at Sea package is the line's most elaborate. It comes with a ceremony and a reception for the couple and up to 18 guests, plus extras like salon services and specialty dining reservations for the bride and groom. All three Princess packages include fresh florals, photography, and an indoor or outdoor ceremony officiated by the ship’s captain.

Margaritaville at Sea

Margaritaville at Sea launched in April 2022 and offers warm-weather sailings from Palm Beach and Tampa. It has three aptly named wedding packages : Paradise, Elation, and Bliss. Paradise is the most extravagant, offering live music, full photography services, and an upgraded venue complete with panoramic views. Elation is the mid-range option, with a reception dinner, DJ services, and ceremony photography, and Bliss serves as the line’s basic package for intimate soirees. At all three levels, couples enjoy perks like a personal wedding coordinator, an officiant, a keepsake wedding certificate, a bridal bouquet and matching boutonniere, priority check-in, dinner at the onboard steakhouse, and a wedding cake.

Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship ocean line has four wedding packages , including the Vows at Sea Package, which allows couples to choose from an array of onboard venues and includes dinner for two at a specialty restaurant, a bottle of bubbly, special stateroom decor, and more. With the Embark on Romance Package, you can invite sailing and non-sailing guests to watch you tie the knot with a ceremony on embarkation day, which includes many of the aforementioned amenities plus priority check-in for the couple. The smallest at-sea package, Intimately Yours, includes a ceremony for the couple and up to 10 guests, while the Destinations I Do package is ideal for those who want a great on-land backdrop for their wedding. With Destinations I Do, couples get married either on board or on land while the ship is in port; transportation to and from the venue is included if you choose the on-land option.

Carnival Cruise Line

Another mega-ship ocean line, Carnival offers three wedding packages . The Signature Ceremony is the line's smallest but still offers plenty of perks: a ceremony for up to 10 guests (including the couple), pre-recorded ceremony music, a pre-cruise wedding planner, priority embarkation assistance, a local officiant, a keepsake wedding certificate, a cake, a sparkling wine toast, photography (plus a canvas print), shipboard decor, and a honeymoon dinner for the newlyweds. Service charges, which include gratuities, are also covered. Those looking to host an onboard reception following the ceremony can book the It’s a Celebration! package for a minimum of 20 guests, including the couple. Alternatively, say “I do” off the ship by booking the Love Ashore package, where couples can tie the knot in a dreamy beach or garden ceremony. For extra amenities, add on the Diamond Enhancement Package, which comes with perks like a mimosa-fueled breakfast, chocolate-covered strawberries delivered to the couple’s stateroom, a bottle of bubbly, a 30-minute couples massage, and more.

Disney Cruise Line

For a fairy-tale-worthy wedding at sea, Disney Cruise Line has you covered. Their standard cruise ceremony package includes up to 16 guests (excluding the couple), while food and drink services, florals, and entertainment can all be added on for an extra cost. Couples can also choose to get married off the ship at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. For more information, including specific venue options, visit the Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings and Honeymoons website .

As noted above, many cruise lines offer wedding coordinators to ensure everything runs smoothly so that you and your soon-to-be spouse can sit back, relax, and soak up the blissful, celebratory vibes. In terms of what to expect from the ceremony and what kind of venues are available, “There can be quite a variety,” says Clabbers. For example, “Some ships have a chapel or space dedicated to weddings and ceremonies; others use a lounge, restaurant, or private room.” Again, since this will all vary by the cruise line and/or the specific package you pick, your best bet is to do your research by combing through the wedding package offerings online or calling the company directly.

The same thing goes for receptions, explains Allison DePesa , a travel advisor with Marvelous Mouse Travels. For example, “You could opt for a dinner in a specialty restaurant or something more opulent in a main dining room, which would offer more space for guests and a DJ.” Willard also urges to-be-weds to remember that the time of their onboard reception will likely be “based on what the cruise line has available, which means the times may be from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., or even 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.” He explains, “A traditional five-hour event with an hour ceremony on the cruise between the hours of 5 p.m. and midnight is almost never done for groups larger than 20 people.”

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Good news: Couples getting married on a cruise are privy to discounts and other perks. According to DePesa, “With as few as eight cabins, you qualify as a group with most cruise lines. You'll receive discounted rates, onboard credits, cocktail parties, etc., depending on the number of staterooms booked.” Barhorst notes that similar perks apply on Holland America, explaining that, if a couple books a group of eight staterooms for their wedding crew, they're “eligible to receive a stateroom category upgrade up to Suite level, completely complimentary.”

According to Johnston, when setting up your room block, it’s a good idea to offer several category options — she recommends reserving balcony, oceanview, and interior staterooms — “since your wedding guests may have a variety of budgetary ranges.” Also, says Willard, “Unlike a hotel room block, your cruise rate can fluctuate for your guests, so it is important to book early” since “the earlier you book, typically the better the price point.” Be sure to keep an eye on cut-off dates, though. Some cruise lines will deactivate contracted room-block rates and links a set time before the sailing (90 days, for instance), meaning guests booking after that point would be on their own to find a stateroom.

When it comes to onboard activities and programming, Willard says that “there are opportunities at every turn for shared group experiences.” For example, “Dining in the main dining hall can be for groups [of] up to 20 people per table," while groups of 30 or more may even be able to book whole private sections of the dining room. On the flip side, cruising is also great because everyone in the group — or, in this case, the wedding party — can do their own thing without being tied to a specific schedule. So, while some guests might prefer to lounge by the pool or relax in the spa, others may take advantage of other onboard amenities, like an escape room, laser tag, waterslides, and more, depending on the specific line and ship.

While standard wedding packages will vary depending on the cruise line and number of guests, Clabbers says they can “range from anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 and up,” and most of the advisors we spoke to concurred.

That said, budget-conscious couples can find a few under-$2,000 options, including the aforementioned Signature Ceremony package on Carnival and the Symbolic at Sea package on Holland America Line, both of which clock in at $1,800. Also — at least on Holland America Line — “seasonal price surcharges of $100 to $200 should also be taken into account during peak nuptial times and holidays, including Christmas Day, Valentine's Day, and the beginning of summer,” says Barhorst. Similarly, while some purposely intimate packages include only a small number of guests, extra guests can sometimes be added at a per-person price. Be sure to inquire about fees, too, particularly for on-shore events.

When budgeting for your cruise wedding, remember that “the cost of legal documentations and permits is extra and needs to be planned far in advance — at least 90 days but ideally more,” explains Clabbers. Sue Allen, a travel consultant at Destination Weddings Travel Group & Celebration Travel , expressed similar sentiments and noted that “legal weddings have an additional fee” compared to symbolic (or non-legal) ones.

Per the pro, “Marriage license fees for in-destination weddings can range from $200 to $700,” while a shipboard maritime license fee is around $900. Allen also cautions couples to be wary of non-refundable deposits. While the initial cruise price may be lower, “if something comes up and you are not able to travel, you lose your deposit or pay a fee to change your travel dates.” With that being said, it’s always a good idea to purchase cruise insurance .

Lastly, DePesa urges couples to keep in mind that “the wedding does not include the fare for the actual cruise.” In fact, the cruise fare(s) can vary drastically depending on the time of year, length of itinerary, and line. If you’re not sailing on a truly all-inclusive line, you and your guests can expect to pay extra for features such as Wi-Fi, specialty dining, and alcoholic beverages. You’ll also, of course, need to factor in airfare if you’re flying to the embarkation/disembarkation port(s).

Book early and plan ahead.

To secure the best prices for your stateroom block, Johnston recommends planning as early as possible. Willard agrees, telling T+L that cost-conscious couples should create their block at least a year out at minimum. Plus, he says, "Most of the cruise lines will provide incentives, as well.”

Also, as part of the planning process, DePesa advises couples to “get an idea of your guest list, get a sense of who can travel with you, what budgets are like, and what time of year that works best” to ensure you’re selecting a sailing that suits both your and your loved ones’ needs, preferences, and desires.

Keep an open mind and trust your coordinator.

“When planning a wedding at sea, a good practice would be to keep an open mind,” explains Barhorst. This, of course, goes hand-in-hand with putting your trust in the cruise wedding planner. That way, she says, “the less stressful (and easier) it will be for [the couple] to enjoy their time together during the sailing.”

Familiarize yourself with the legalities.

As previously mentioned, the legalities and specifics of a cruise wedding vary greatly depending on where the ship is registered, the port(s) of call, and more. With that in mind, DePesa recommends couples take the time to do some digging and understand the legal requirements to determine “if a symbolic ceremony might just make things easier.”

Decide if a cruise wedding is really for you.

Before going full speed ahead and booking a cruise wedding, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons to determine if these types of nuptials are truly what you want. What’s more, says Willard, “A cruise wedding isn't about you specifically outside of the ceremony itself.” Rather, “It's about the shared experience, and your guests may decide that there is something more interesting [to do] on one of the other days.” He also cautions that cruise weddings can mean fewer guests RSVPing yes due to factors like time commitment, budget restraints, and so on.

If you do decide to move forward with a cruise wedding, Barhorst says that “managing the wedding parties’ expectations is also advised, as the structure of cruise weddings differs from the traditional ceremony,”

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