Disney Cruise Line Embarkation Day
What to Expect and How to Prepare
Make sure you download this PDF and read through our final tips before you set sail. This is full of great info for embarkation day!
Double Check & then TRIPLE CHECK Your Travel Documents
Before you leave for the port, triple check your documentation requirements. Guests without proper passports, visas, or required citizenship documentation will be denied boarding, and Disney is very strict about this.
Make sure every traveler has the correct documents packed and easily accessible.
Confirm Your Reservations!
Online changes close three days before sailing, so check those reservations again. Confirm any adult only dining, spa reservations, or Port Adventures you may have booked. If online changes have closed, you can still call Disney Cruise Line or visit Guest Services once onboard if adjustments are needed.
Mandatory Health Questionnaire
On embarkation morning, Disney will email a mandatory health questionnaire. This must be completed before you arrive at the port. It is required for boarding and helps keep everyone onboard healthy. So be sure to check for it!
Arrive the day before.
If you are late, the ship will not wait. Do not try to fly or drive in from far away the day before, Traffic could get in the way, so it’s best to just be ready near the port, giving yourself plenty of time to get there on embarkation day.
Arriving at the Cruise Terminal
Parking is available at most terminals for a daily fee.
Third party lots and shuttles are also available if you prefer not to park at the terminal.
Check In and Security
At the terminal, you will go through security similar to airport screening. Carry on items must fit through the x ray machine. Hard sided coolers are not permitted. Ice packs are only allowed if chilling medication, and medication must be kept separate from beverages.
At check in, you will need your Port Arrival Form, passports or birth certificates, and identification.
Children ages three to ten receive an Oceaneer Band to access the kids club. The band is complimentary during the cruise. If not returned before debarkation, a charge is added to your onboard account.
Boarding the Ship
After check in, you will wait in the terminal until your boarding group is called. Just before boarding, Disney photographers will take embarkation photos. These can be viewed later onboard.
Once it is your turn, your family name will be announced as you board the ship. It is a special moment and happens quickly, so have your camera ready if you want to capture it.
Before sailing, it helps to review deck plans so you have a general idea of where things are located once onboard.
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As soon as you arrive at the port, connect to the ship’s Wi Fi using the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. This app is essential throughout your cruise. It shows activity schedules, dining rotation, reservations, and allows messaging within your group.
If you plan to purchase internet, you can do so directly in the app.
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After boarding, lunch options are available right away. The buffet is popular on embarkation day and can be crowded. One of the main dining rooms usually serves lunch as well and is often a quieter option.
Take time to explore the ship, visit the kids clubs during open house hours, stop by Guest Services for dining or excursion changes, ask about any bookings you weren’t able to get and visit the spa for embarkation day specials.
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Staterooms are typically ready around mid afternoon. Your Key to the World cards will be clipped outside your door. Once inside, unpack, settle in, and decorate your door if you brought magnets or decor.
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Before sailing, all guests must attend the mandatory safety drill. You will be notified through the Navigator app when it is time and where to go. Attendance is required by maritime law, and it is usually brief.
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Once the ship leaves port, head to the top deck for the sailaway party. Music, characters, and high energy make this one of the most fun moments of the cruise and the perfect start to your vacation.
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Your first evening includes rotational dining and a Broadway style show. Your dining time, restaurant, and table number are listed in the Navigator app. If you have early dining, attend the late show. If you have late dining, attend the early show.
After the ship leaves port, onboard shops will open. Shops remain closed while docked, so if there is a specific item you want, embarkation day is a good time to look.