Kellie:
I saw on another post that you collect snowglobes. My daughter Hayley collects them too! If you find that there is a
DCL one, let me know. I know she would love to have one.
As for checking in, yes, it is basically the same as a skycap. Ahead of time with your docs, you'll receive Disney bag tags. On each tag you list 1 of 3, 2 of 3, etc. so they know how many to look for when they are putting them outside of your stateroom. Out in the parking lot, you hand over your bags and don't see them again until later in the day so anything you need for the afternoon, such as your TOT stash or a bathing suit, bring on board with you in your carry on bag.
You don't got through customs until you get off of the boat on Thursday. It was very quick and our bags were waiting for us. They take them the night before from outside of your room.
Once you leave your bags with the "skycap" (and don't forget to bring dollars to tip per bag), you walk in to the terminal, go through security like at the airport with your day bag, have your docs quickly scanned to make sure everything is filled out right and you have proper i.d./birth certificates/passport, you then get in line and they take a credit card imprint for your charges to your room, hand you your room key, go over room assignment and give you a Navigator for the day.
Next, you get in line. Both of you don't have to stand in line. Usually one person per party is acceptable and the other person can wander around, watch Disney cartoons, look at the ship, etc. There is a small cafe for snacks but save your appetite for lunch!!
Characters usually start coming out for photos at 11:15. They are all in the sailaway outfits although on our cruise, they could possibly be dressed up for Halloween!!
Sorry if I rambled on but this should give you a good idea of what to expect. I guess for Concierge you will have your own line. How nice
Marley