air arrangements

[muntzfab4]

We are going on our first cruise ever on Magic on 7/24 to celebrate our 25th anniversary with our two DD - can't wait!
I did not make air arrangements through DCL and am wondering if I made a mistake. Prices are cheaper making arrangements on my own, but I am concerned if there is a problem with the flight we could "miss the boat". Any feedback or suggestions?

 

[rae519]

Fly in the day before you cruise - relax at the hotel then get to the Port early and relax!!

Rae

 

[Rock'n Robin]

I second that. You can book a hotel by the airport and use the DCL shuttle or a towncar service, or do what we do and book a hotel at the port, rent a car and drive down. There are many good recommendations for hotels in both places here on the boards.
Robin M.

 

[Mickeyhugger]

I agree about flying in the night before, for an additional reason.

I used to be a ticket/check-in agent many years ago for the now long-gone Pan Am.

I'll forever remember the desperation and near panic attacks of passengers who were booked on the flights to Miami that were going to be late. (Even though it rarely happened.) 'We're supposed to catch a cruise!"

I learned from those unfortunate passengers and went home to tell DH, 'If we ever take a cruise, let's go one day ahead so we don't risk missing it.' And sometimes, even though the flight is on time, luggage still doesn't make it. (I know, it could happen the day before too, but the airline has a bigger chance of finding it and getting it to you by the next day.)

 

[inkkognito]

I too am a big fan of flying in the night before. We get a hotel near the airport via Priceline for $28 to $33 for the top star level. We usually get the Marriott, although we've gotten the Renaissance and the Holiday Inn Select too. They have a free shuttle from the airport to the hotel, and then we take Happy Limo to the port the next morning. Stress free, and it gives you some "wiggle room" in case of an unforseen delay.
Barb
Visit the Platinum Castaway Club at: www.castawayclub.com

 

[videogal1]

Originally posted by Rock'n Robin
I second that. You can book a hotel by the airport and use the DCL shuttle or a towncar service, or do what we do and book a hotel at the port, rent a car and drive down.

Or you can book a room at one of the WDW resorts that serves as a pickup point for the cruise shuttle....See the Mouse on dry land first!