First time cruiser-changing dining times?

[mcrabeck]

Hi- We are going to book our first Disney Cruise in December and see that only second seating is available for reservation. We are going with an elderly family member that we don't think can wait that late to eat. How likely is to be able to change to the early dining time if we try and switch it upon arrival? Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[PrincessShmoo]

Hi- We are going to book our first Disney Cruise in December and see that only second seating is available for reservation. We are going with an elderly family member that we don't think can wait that late to eat. How likely is to be able to change to the early dining time if we try and switch it upon arrival? Thanks in advance for any help!

When you made your reservation did you request to be placed on the wait list for early dining? If not, call DCL and do so. Your TA should do this, if you used one.

Some suggestions - Give DCL a call about once a month (increasing closer to your cruise) to "confirm" the request is there (remember the squeaky wheel?). If, when you check in at the port, you are still on late seating, go to where the dining changes are being handled once onboard (it will be listed in the Navigator you get in the terminal) and make the request again. Many times these methods will get the change through.

I wouldn't just wait until boarding, make the request now. If you can back it up with "medical reasons" or something it might put you in a better position.