Port arrival time - how strict?

[Raya]

We got a 12:30 Port Arrival time. The car service has told us to expect an 11AM pickup. As nearly as I can tell the Port is only about an hour away from us. What will happen if we arrive 30 minutes early? I'm sure the car service is building in a cushion (we told them our arrival time needed to be 12:30) but I'd hate to start the trip by standing outside in the sun for 30 minutes.

 

[DCL58]

We got a 12:30 Port Arrival time. The car service has told us to expect an 11AM pickup. As nearly as I can tell the Port is only about an hour away from us. What will happen if we arrive 30 minutes early? I'm sure the car service is building in a cushion (we told them our arrival time needed to be 12:30) but I'd hate to start the trip by standing outside in the sun for 30 minutes.

The port has lines in 15 minute intervals outside the terminal doors. You will stand in the line that corresponds to your PAT - the whole line of people are let into the terminal together.

 

[DynamicDisneyDuo]

You shouldn't have to wait too long, if at all, getting there at 12:00 with a PAT of 12:30. Probably no more than how long it takes to process your PAT's line through security.

 

[BStieers]

I believe this will depend on which port you are using - San Diego waiting area outside is unshaded and less organized
Canaveral - they have queues, you will wait in the one for your time, it is outside, well organized and shaded
Puerto Rico - queues are shaded, move QUICK, and tend to run early, getting to this port is a bit of a BEAST some days

 

[NephieRN]

In port canaveral on our 8/30 treasure sailing, our car service dropped us off at 1045 for an 1145 PAT. We waited off to the side for about 5 minutes until they made the 1145 PAT line and within another 5 minutes they opened it and let us in the terminal. You will be fine arriving at noon for a 1230 PAT assuming this is port canaveral. Other ports may differ.