Embarkation Day is one of the most exciting (and a little overwhelming) moments when starting your Disney cruise adventure. On both of our Disney cruises, it marked the beginning of a magical journey filled with fun, excitement, and Disney magic. In this post, I’ll walk you through every step of the embarkation process, from arrival at the port to settling into your stateroom, so you can feel confident and prepared for the adventure ahead!

Transportation to the Port: How to Get to the Disney Wish and disney treasure

When it comes to getting to the port on Embarkation Day, you have several options depending on where you’re staying. Here’s what you need to know:

Driving to the Port: Tips for Self-Driving Guests

On our Disney Wish cruise, we stayed at Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside resort at Walt Disney World. We had rented a car for the trip, and since our Port Arrival Time (PAT) was set for 12:30 PM, we left the hotel around 11:00 AM to ensure we had plenty of time to get to the port. Upon arrival at the port, we dropped off our tagged luggage (which would be delivered to our stateroom) before heading to the parking ramp.

• Parking at the Port: At the time of this writing, it costs $17/day + tax to park at the port parking ramp, which is conveniently connected to the terminal.
• Pro Tip: Pack essentials like swimsuits, sunscreen, and medications in your carry-on bags since your luggage won’t arrive at your stateroom for a few hours after boarding.
• Flight Arriving Day of Sailing?: Disney recommends flights arriving at MCO airport no later than 12:00 PM EST to ensure that you are able to get to the port on time. However, I would recommend giving yourself extra time in case of delays/cancellations.

Using Disney Cruise Line (DCL) Transportation: A Stress-Free Option

For our second Disney cruise aboard the Disney Treasure, we stayed at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and opted for Disney Cruise Line transportation from the resort to the port. This service is available for both one-way and roundtrip travel from Walt Disney World resorts or Orlando International Airport (MCO).

• Booking the DCL Transportation: We purchased transportation about 2 months before our sailing. The cost for round-trip transportation is $90 per person. It is best to book this transportation early just in case it sells out.
• Hotel Pick-Up: The morning of our departure, Bell Services picked up our luggage at 7:30 AM from our hotel room to have it delivered directly to the ship. We then met in the hotel lobby at 9:00 AM and departed on the motorcoach soon after.
• Efficient and Relaxing: The process was incredibly organized and stress-free. We didn’t have to worry about parking, and the ride was relaxing as we didn’t need to deal with traffic or directions. Everyone can even watch episodes of classic Disney cartoons on the drive to the port!

Things to be aware of

• We were notified that you can’t get to the port until your Port Arrival Time (PAT) and if you arrive too early DCL can turn you away. I have heard conflicting information on this and have not personally heard of anyone getting turned away when dropping off luggage prior to the PAT. However, you will need to wait outside the terminal until your PAT is called.
• When traveling to the port via DCL transport were were not assigned a PAT during the check-in for the cruise. As I mentioned though, we did get assigned an earlier boarding group though compared to when we drove to the port. We found out the reason you are automatically assigned an earlier boarding group since you get to the port earlier than most other guests.
• When packing for the cruise, make sure to review DCL’s List of Prohibited Items to ensure that you are packing appropriately for the trip.

Which Option is Best for You?

While the cost for DCL transportation can add up, it was more economical for our family of five to use this service rather than renting a car, driving ourselves, and paying for parking at the port. When considering your transportation option make sure to consider the length of your cruise as well as what other plans you have before and after your sailing.

Checking In at the Port: Navigating Disney’s Smooth Process

Upon arriving at the Disney cruise terminal at Port Canaveral, the check-in process was clear and easy. We presented our Port Arrival Form and passports to get started. Here’s what to expect:

Pro Tips

• If you arrive using DCL transportation, you’ll often be assigned an earlier boarding group than those arriving by car which means more time on the ship! (We boarded in Group 4 with DCL transport, compared to Group 15 when we drove ourselves.)
• Inside the arrival hall there is airport-like seating to relax in and you can connect to the Disney Cruise Wi-Fi. We used this waiting time to log-on to the DCL app (Navigator app) to start looking at all the onboard activities for our sailing and start planning everything we wanted to do. This will also be the time you can find out your rotational dining.

Boarding the Ship: Disney Magic Unfolds

When your group is called, it’s time to board the cruise ship and start your vacation. As you step onto the ship, you’re welcomed by cheerful cast members and the familiar Disney music. Here’s what happens next:

• Entry into Grand Hall: Cast members announce your family’s arrival to the Grand Hall on every Disney Cruise. For some extra Disney magic you’re handed a “wishing wand” as part of the welcome celebration on the Disney Wish. It’s a magical touch that really sets the tone for the cruise.
• Character Greetings: There are different characters high above the Grand Hall that are waving to all the guests as they enter. We have seen Prince Naveen and Princess Tiana, Aladdin and Jasmine, the Genie as well as the Fairy Godmother welcoming everyone in.

Disney Treasure Grand Hall (Left, Center); Disney Wish Grand Hall (Right)

Once leaving the Grand Hall, you are free to explore the ship as you like. Since our rooms would not be ready until around 1:30 PM, we chose to head upstairs to get some lunch. Marceline Market as well as Mickey’s Festival of Foods are open for lunch.

After lunch we headed towards our room as it was ready. Once getting to the room you will find your Key to the World Cards above your room number in a sealed envelope. These cards are your stateroom keys, payment method, and access to ship activities. Keep them with you at all times. For our first cruise we brought along lanyards to keep our cards in. On our subsequent cruise on the Disney Treasure, we were provided lanyards as a Castaway Club gift.

Sail Away Party: The Official Start of Your Disney Cruise

After getting familiar with the ship, it was time for the Sail Away Party on the pool deck. This lively, high-energy event features:

• Character Appearances: Beloved Disney characters take the stage in colorful costumes.
• Live Music and Entertainment: The entertainment team does an amazing job getting the crowd pumped up for the sail away. The iconic “When You Wish Upon a Star” plays as the ship departs, creating an unforgettable moment.

Get Ready for a Smooth Disney Cruise

Ready to set sail on your Disney Cruise? Follow these tips to ensure your embarkation day goes off without a hitch. Don’t forget to plan ahead, stay organized, and soak in the excitement! If you have any questions or need additional tips, leave a comment below or reach out. I’m here to help make your journey magical from start to finish!