New cruiser question

[Madhatter266]

We're planning our first Disney cruise and I have been reading the boards constantly to help with my questions. One concern that I have - everyone seems to recommend spending the night before the cruise at a hotel near the Port, i.e. Raddison, Ron Jon, etc. I have read mixed comments on the shuttles available. Is it a madhouse to use the shuttle, and what are the benefits in taking a late shuttle. What time do they start, and what would be wrong about taking the first one in the AM and just "hanging around" until you can board? Thanks for your help!

 

[natdencro]

We stay at the Hyatt MCO on the Fri evening,as it is so very convenient, clean, quiet, efficient - and best of all - just a few steps away from the Disney buses. We generally catch the early bus and just take in the sights and sounds of the Cruise Terminal for a couple of hours. Best to be there, rather than still on route - panicking that you may have a problem and not get there in time for the cruise!The Hyatt is a little more expensive, but not really when you take into consideration extra travelling costs to another location. Besides, you have to be back at the airport for the Disney bus anyway. Im sure other people will have more ideas for you to contemplate, but we are more than happy to do the same again next year. So nice to get off a long flight and only be a few paces away from a shower and comfy bed! Nat

 

[Madhatter266]

Thanks for your advice! I'm always concerned about being late or rushed and I'ld rather be there too early than too late.

 

[kcashner]

We also like staying in the MCO (airport) area. I can get a 3* hotel on Priceline for $31-35 per night. All of the 3* have free shuttles to and from the airport. Of course, you pay hotel tax and a Priceline handling fee on top of that, but it comes out to under $45 for the night.

You have to do something to get to the port sometime....I find it easier to do only one "shuttle" trip--MCO area to port--whether that is by DCL transfer, private limo, car or whatever.

BTW, the "break even" point between DCL shuttle and private limo is generally at 3 people. More than 3, and private limo service will be cheaper. In addition, they will pick you up when/where you specify and allow a grocery or walmart stop of 15 minutes if you desire.

The port opens to incoming traffic at 10, counters open for check in at 10:30, and boarding starts about 11:45. We usually plan to arrive at the port about 11 - 11:30. This puts us in the first 150-200 to board (which sounds like a lot, but remember that a full load is 2600 guests). Using this schedule, I've always gotten any ressie I wanted in the spa or Palo....or elsewhere. So...I see no need to get there at 10, but want to be there by 11:30. No downside to getting there early except the need to wait in line. However, all the above times assume a normal schedule at DCL. Obviously, today's weather did not allow a normal schedule, and passengers were still on board till about 11!

Also, keep in mind that the busses don't leave WDW till about 12:30, so those passengers will always be arriving "late" to my way of thinking.....

 

[QuiltTeddy]

We always stay at Disney the night before and then take the Cruise shuttle. It's very easy, well organized and you get there in plenty of time to make a reservation at Palo.