Embarkation of your Disney Cruise really begins 30 days before your cruise begins, because that is when you have to check in online or via the Disney Cruise app. This recently changed and is based on your Castaway club status Pearl (and concierge) 40-days, Platinum 38-days, Gold 35-days, Silver 33-days prior to the sail date. First time cruisers may begin check-in 30-days out. If you would like to board the ship early in the day, then you will need to check in online at midnight ET 30 days before your cruise sails. During the check in process you will be assigned your Port Arrival Time.
What do you need when you check in your travel party?
A photo of every passengers travel documents
Passports are always suggested, but in some cases you may use other documents https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/guest-services/passport-travel-documentation/#the-bahamas-caribbean-pacific-coast-bermuda-or-canada-round-trip-cruises
A photo from the shoulders up of each guest in your party
Flight and pre-cruise hotel information (if applicable)
Credit Card for onboard charges
Preparation
You will also want to have your travel details ready, as well as your credit card.
When do you check in?
I am all checked in, now what?
Make sure you are ready for Pirate Night!
Do you know What to Bring?
Cruise Day!
On the day of your cruise you will arrive at the port at your designated time, or later. Parking is different at each port. If you are traveling out of Port Canaveral, there is parking available on site. But if you’re traveling out of San Diego, you will need to arrange parking in advance because there is no on-site parking.
In most ports you will give your bags to a porter (our guide to gratuities) and go through security (like an airport). You will bring your travel docs to the check in window and check in.