How early can we actually get on the ship?

[Frwinkley]

We are sailing on the Dream this summer. This will be our first trip on DCL. We will be arriving the evening prior and are excited to spend as much time on the ship as possible.

 

[PrincessShmoo]

We are sailing on the Dream this summer. This will be our first trip on DCL. We will be arriving the evening prior and are excited to spend as much time on the ship as possible.

Boarding typically begins around 11:15-11:30 with Concierge followed by Platinum Castaway Club members. Then boarding numbers are called. The boarding number you get at check in at the port is tied to the Port Arrival Time you select during your online check in process.

Once the boarding number being announced for boarding catches up to the number being handed out at check in, Open Boarding is announced. Anyone holding any boarding number may board at that time. This typically happens around 12:45-1:00.

 

[missyp]

What s your port arrival time? Are you taking a Disney transfer? That all tends to factor in.

 

[missyp]

Just noticed you said this summer so you don't have a time yet. Since it is your first cruise it will be unlikely that you have an early time. Doubtful you will get on before 12 :30

 

[Frwinkley]

We will be driving ourselves to the port from Orlando.

When I select a Port Arrival Time during the online check-in process, I'm assuming it's best to pick the earliest time possible. Having said that, however, will it really matter if Concierge and Platinum members board first.

 

[diznymom]

Something that I didn't realize on my first cruise............the ship has to be completely emptied of the other passengers first. (I know, it should have been obvious)

There was a show on TV about "turn around day" on a different cruise line. It was very insightful. I had never considered what all had to happen on that day. I wish they would play it again b/c I really liked it.

 

[ivanp91]

I believe my PAT for my latest cruise was 11:45, and I was in boarding group 2. After they started calling out boarding numbers, I was on the ship within 5 minutes and the ship (Fantasy) seemed deserted for quite a long time, it took easily an hour or two before you could tell a lot more people had boarded.

 

[lanejudy]

Since it is your first cruise it will be unlikely that you have an early time.

I wouldn't jump to that conclusion. Many people here, myself included, select earliest PAT on our first cruise. Much of it depends on who are the other cruisers, how many are CC members, and what their arrival plans may be. It can vary from cruise-to-cruise.

OP -- Your boarding number is directly tied to your PAT, so an earlier PAT will have an lower (earlier) boarding number. Since you are driving and will have some control over arrival time: a "sweet spot" for arriving, check-in and boarding with minimal crowds and waiting is around 12:15-12:30pm. Much of the early crowds with the first PATs have boarded and the buses from WDW haven't arrived yet.

Enjoy your cruise!