How late will we get to AK if at value Music resort

[Snowwhyt]

I want to make Lunch and fastpass reservations at Animal Kingdom but I’m afraid that we will miss our reservation/fastpass times taking Disney transportation. I’m concerned because we are at a value resort and the high end hotels will be dropped off first to check in. (I understand it’s “pay more get more”.) But just how much time will that take from our getting to the park entrance?

Will we will have a longer check in process or fewer busses? Because of reasons I haven’t thought of(lunch hour, airport pick-ups, Easter that day)

What advice can you give me for reservations on Easter at Animal Kingdom since I’m taking Disney transportation?

 

[Quellman]

If you walk off the ship you might be better than if you wait for first disembarking. You could also try hailing an uber from your resort instead of taking the Disney bus, but luckily, the All Stars are close to the Animal Kingdom.

You don't necessarily need to check in to the Disney Resort. You can complete your hotel check in before you go on your cruise. Then when you arrive at the resort, store your luggage with bell services and head to the bus stop. The resort should send you a text message when your room is available.

 

[WeLoveDisneyAlways]

I understand it’s “pay more get more

This is not actually the case with WDW, you think it would be and frankly for the few times I've stayed in a deluxe I really wish it was.

I would allow 2.5-3 hours from Disembark to reservation just to be sure. When we went on Dream we were at CSR by 1030 and we did not rush off the ship.

 

[bumbershoot]

I’m concerned because we are at a value resort and the high end hotels will be dropped off first to check in.

That’s not how it works with DME; are you sure it’s how it works with paid dcl transport?

Do online checkin and just stash your bags with bell services and head out. No need to do a full wait-in-line experience.

 

[PrincessShmoo]

I’m concerned because we are at a value resort and the high end hotels will be dropped off first to check in. (I understand it’s “pay more get more”.)

That's not so. We were at All Stars Music resort and we were the second drop off on our last cruise.

Before that we were at Coronado and were the last drop off (out of 4).

Typically, you can expect to be at your resort about an hour to an hour and half after you get on the DCL bus at the port. Check in can be short or long (can't tell for sure). But I wouldn't plan anything at any of the parks until after noon.