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• Disney Cruise Line Check-in Process Online: Everything to Know

We recently went through the Disney Cruise Line Check-in process and wish we knew everything we're sharing below ahead of time. It would have avoided confusion and reduced the time it took to complete it all. Alas, we're smarter and wiser now!

Luckily, we're sharing our valuable knowledge with you , including screenshots of the check-in process (which we did on a mobile phone) and what to expect.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Creating a Smoother Check-in Process for You

In order to create the smoothest check-in process possible, we are also sharing what you need to have ready ahead of time . Additionally, we'll tell you the info we wish we knew in advance that will help you with your own Disney Cruise Line (DCL) check-in and answer check-in FAQs we've received.

Get excited because after you complete the check-in process, you'll know what time you can arrive at the port to start boarding your Disney cruise! Woohoo! (We'll also explain why that port arrival time is important.)

Towards the end of the post, we'll share what you can do after you check-in in the days leading up to your cruise .

⭐️ Preparing for your Disney Cruise Line Check-in

Check-in opens to passengers a minimum of 30 days before embarkation. It must be completed by one day before your sail date. Only guests in good standing who have paid the balance of their cruise booking can proceed with checking in.

Castaway Club Perk: Earlier Check in

If you are a member of Castaway Club, which you are automatically enrolled in for free, after your first Disney cruise, you can check in according to the following:

• Silver: 33 days before the cruise
• Gold: 35 days before the cruise
• Platinum: 38 days before the cruise
• Pearl: 40 days before the cruise

Disney Cruise Line Concierge Guests Check In

It does not matter when concierge guests check in as long as they do so before the cut off date for online check in. This is because they get Group One boarding anyway.

➜ Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App

First, you want to ensure you have the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app downloaded on your phone for your online check-in. You will want the app for your cruise anyway since it allows you to text with fellow passengers while on board, free of charge or free of an internet plan.

You will find links to download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app here via the Apple App Store or Google Play for Android users.

If you have never downloaded the app, you'll also need the following to log in :

• Disney Cruise reservation number
• Your Disney Cruise account login info (username and password)

You can do other things in the DCL app, including:

• Manage your reservation.
• Explore & book activities.
• View additional cruise options, like adding air or ground transportation and adding dining or special requests.
• Onboard chat (the free text messaging we mentioned above), which allows you to chat with fellow passengers or a crew member – the most fun part of this is the cool Disney emojis in the chat feature.
• Access your cruise calendar and things like menus for each restaurant during your cruise.
• View your cruise statement balance.
• See DCL's latest cruise specials and offerings for your next vacation.
• Explore the ship with the app's deck-to-deck plan, bow to stern .
• View the ports of call and daily itinerary, like what time you dock and what time you need to be back onboard before the cruise departs for the next destination.

⬇︎ Download our free check-in printable!

Download our free Disney Cruise Line Check-in Cheat Sheet

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➜ What You Need to have on Hand, Ready to Upload for Check-In

• Photo of every traveler's passport .
• A clear photo of each passenger , solo.
• A credit card that you'll use for purchases while you're on the cruise.
• Flight information (if you're flying to the port) .
• Hotel information for before/after your Disney cruise (if applicable).

☆ It's important to have all of the info above handy when you arrive at your Port of Embarkation too. Do not put them in any luggage you'll pass off to the crew curbside.

Keep these things in your carry-on bag that you're going to have on you at all times.

➜ Checking in Large Groups of Travelers

If you're checking in a lot of travelers for your cruise – for example, eight, ten, or more – one person can check everyone in.

Link all the reservations into one account so you can change between them easily. Then make sure the one person checking everyone in has EVERYTHING needed to do it, which is referenced in this post. (Security photos, passports or birth certificate info, etc.)

Our check-in printable has a checklist to ensure you’re prepared for check-in! Be sure to download that through this post.

⭐️ Be sure to download our free printable Disney Cruise Line Check-in Cheat Sheet, in the box above or here , so you're fully prepared, including a checklist of what you need for a smooth online check-in! ⭐️

Below, we'll go into depth about each item you need to check-in, in the bulleted list above.

✨ Grab these fun Disney Items before you Cruise ! ✨

➜ Photo of Your Passport

You'll need a photo of every traveler's passport, taken one at a time (not a group photo of the passports). It has to be a clear, unobstructed, glare-free photo. Alternatively, a Passport Card may be acceptable if you travel between the United States, Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.

This is harder to get than you would think! We recommend taking the photo during daylight, near a window with natural light. Turn off any artificial light in your home. Then take your photo.

If you can't get the light coming in from your window to stop reflecting on your passport, try closing the blinds a little or closing a shade that still allows light to come through.

You'll upload citizenship documents for check-in if you don't have a passport.

Check-In Tip:

Passport Card

You can use a Passport Card to check in if you are traveling between the U.S. and Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Bermuda, in lieu of a passport. They may be easier to photograph.

You cannot use this option if you're cruising elsewhere, including Europe.

If you're cruising between the United States and the Caribbean, including Castaway Cay, you can use your Passport or Passport Card.

➜ Solo Photo of Each Passenger

Disney wants a photo of each passenger for their onboard account. It should be taken from the shoulders up, looking straight at the camera.

It cannot be the same exact photo as your official ID. (In other words, you cannot simply take a photo of the image in a passport.) However, use that photo as guidance for what they want.

Think of your passport or driver's license photo. This is the type of photo DCL is looking for of each passenger to identify him/her upon check-in/out of the ship at ports.

We simply looked for a photo of us from vacation without a crazy background, where we were looking at the camera straight-on. This doesn't have to be a glamour shot – it simply has to show what you look like, without a face mask or sunglasses , looking directly at the camera.

There is a size limit to how large the photo can be (minimum and maximum size). Be sure that it meets these requirements before you upload it. The process will move along quicker if it's not huge (especially because cameras take huge-sized photos these days in terms of storage space).

The check-in website may crash if the photo is beyond the photo size limits it states. (Trust us – it crashed a few times for us because the image was too big. It stopped crashing when we reduced the file size.)

➜ Proof of Vaccination (No Longer Required)

Before November 2022, you needed to have a photo of vaccination cards for any vaccinated passenger. While this is no longer required, regulations/requirements can change anytime.

➜ Credit Card

You'll input the info of a credit card you want to use for purchases while onboard during online check-in. Have one handy.

Alternatively, you can choose to pay for cruise expenses in cash. If you do so, you'll have a credit limit depending on the length of your cruise. If you reach the limit, you'll have to go to guest services to pay off the bill (in cash) before you can charge more to your account.

➜ Flight Information

Have your flight info ready to input so you don't have to search for it. If you are driving to the port, then you do not have to enter this info. (You simply check “No” when they ask, “Are you flying in for your cruise vacation?”)

➜ Hotel Information

This includes any Orlando hotel (for example), Port Canaveral area hotel, Air BnB, VRBO, etc. that you may be staying at before or after your cruise.

If this does not apply to you, then you do not have to input this information.

⭐️ Check in to Your Disney Cruise Line Sailing 30 Days Prior to Embarkation: Timezone Info

Online check-in is available for your sailing 30 days prior to the day you board the ship. We thought this was according to the time in the same time zone as your port of embarkation.

However, it's not. It is at midnight EST, regardless of where you are or what timezone you're sailing from.

Why does this matter? Because if you live in England but your cruise leaves from Port Canaveral , Florida, you can check in at midnight EST . You cannot check in at midnight BST time (England's local time).

We tried to check into our cruise while we were enjoying a barge cruise in France. Dan and I specifically stayed up late just in case the countdown showing in the app was correct.

Forcing myself to stay up until midnight in France, I realized that somehow the Disney counter switched to local time in France during the trip. The countdown was incorrect .

Imagine our disappointment (and exhaustion) when we realized that we could n ot check in at midnight. Instead, I set an alarm for 6:00am (six hours later) to check into our cruise at midnight EST . And voila, we could check-in.

➜ So, if you're wondering, “Is the 30 days local time for Disney Cruise Line, or is it my local time where I live?” The answer is that it's Disney Cruise Line's headquarters local time, midnight EST. Disney Cruise Line officially confirmed this for us via email correspondence with their PR team.

Check-in, and any modifications to your check-in, must be completed by the day before you sail.

⭐️ Disney Cruise Line Online Check-In Process

➜ begin check-in.

When you open the DCL Navigator app at any time before your cruise, you'll see an awesome countdown to your sailing. We love that they use emojis in the counter. They sub out a lot of the zeros for fun Disney characters. (A lot of the characters are also available in the app chat feature while you are on your cruise.)

When you can check in, you'll see that a little button that says “Begin Check-In” appears in the app (screenshot below, right). This button will not appear until 30 days before your cruise, at midnight EST.

You can see that our Online Check-In screenshot says “6:00” on the upper lefthand corner because we were in France at the time of check-in; it was 12:00 midnight EST.

⭐️ Complete Check-In Items on the Overview List

When you hit the “Begin Check-In” button, it will take you out of the app. It opens an internet browser window to begin checking in.

You will see a checklist for what you need to do to complete check-in. The icons, which are silhouettes of the faces of classic Disney characters (like Goofy, Donald, and Minnie) are not filled in if you haven't completed the task.

But as you fill in the information, you'll see the faces start to fill in with more graphic and colorful drawings. So cute, right?

In the screenshots below, you'll see the top two don't have the faces filled in yet. In the bottom two screenshots, the faces are filled in, which indicates we completed those tasks for check-in.

➜ Moving Through the Steps of DCL Check-In

You'll be glad you will have already gathered what we recommended to have on hand, ready to go, as you move through the Disney Cruise Line check-in steps. Things will move as efficiently as possible this way.

Each step is sequential. You cannot jump ahead to the Port Arrival Time, for example, then go back to filling in your contact information. You must fill in your contact information first before it lets you move to the next step.

As you can see from the screenshots below, we filled in the information for our Travel Plans, picked our Port Arrival Time (the BEST part of check-in), accepted the terms of the Cruise Contract, and we were done.

All DCL guests, including Platinum Castaway Club members , need to select a Port Arrival Time.

➜ Port Arrival Time

The Port Arrival Time is a timeslot you are given or select during the check in process. This is the time you are able to arrive at the cruise terminal to board the ship on embarkation day.

It's an important timeslot! If you're able to, given how you're arriving at the port (especially if you're driving yourself) you'll want to select the earliest available arrival time.

This is the time you can arrive at the port and drop your luggage off, curbside. (The luggage is delivered to your cabin later in the day.) Then you go inside the terminal to continue your check-in, in person, and you get your boarding group. The earlier the boarding group, the earlier you get on the ship. This means the longer your cruise is, even if that's just hours longer.

Disney has a lot of shorter cruise itineraries that are three or four days that head to Castaway Cay and Nassau, then head back to Florida. This Port Arrival Time particularly matters for shorter cruises. Why not maximize your time onboard a Disney ship if you can?

If you want one of the earliest arrival times, it's imperative you check in for your cruise at midnight. Being one of the first to check in means you will increase your chances of being able to select an early arrival time.

For Guests taking Disney Cruise Line Transportation

The caveat to the Port Arrival Time you get during check in is if you are taking DCL transportation from your Orlando-area hotel. This is especially true for resorts that are on-property at Walt Disney World. If this is the case, your Port Arrival Time doesn't really matter because you will arrive at the port when the bus drops you off.

➜ Disney Cruise Line Website Delays During Check-In

We're not going to sugarcoat this: Disney websites are notoriously slow and buggy.

It's not uncommon to get an error message that the website is experiencing complications during check-in. This is very frustrating when you feel like you're racing against the clock to get your earliest Port Arrival Time and have to do the steps sequentially as the app presents them.

Trust us, we know, and we can relate. We were on vacation overseas the last time we had to check-in for a Disney cruise…at 6:00am local time! It wasn't what we wanted to deal with. Alas, we are all at the mercy of Disney.

The good news is that Disney periodically saves your work. If you need to reload check-in, simply re-open the app. Log in again. Then click “Complete Check-In,” and it will take you back to the check-in website.

You may lose some check-in work (we did), but not all of it. It usually doesn't take much time to re-enter the info.

⭐️ Confirmation You're Checked-In for Your Cruise

When you have successfully completed the online check-in process, you'll see the message in the screenshot below, that says, “You're All Set to Sail!”

An important note is that while it says you're set to sail, your online check-in may still show as “ Pending Review “. This is because a Disney Cruise Line cast member has to check the photos you submitted (a real human, from what we understand), and it's a long process.

It could potentially say “Pending Review” until you sail. If it does, don't worry. We have heard that this is common. In our case, our account said “Pending Review” up until the day we embarked on our cruise.

As long as you bring all the documents with you that you uploaded to the app, you should be golden when you arrive at the port to embark on your Disney Cruise. (Remember you must keep all of these documents in a carry-on bag with you at all times during embarkation.)

➜ Disney Cruise Line Port Arrival Cards for your Digital Apple Wallet

If you have an iPhone, one of the coolest things you can add to your Apple Wallet after check-in is your Port Arrival Form QR codes. This makes it extra easy to find those important QR codes you need when you get to the cruise terminal to embark on your Disney Cruise.

We're not 100% sure if the same cool feature is available to Android phone users with Google Pay. But if you know (because you use an Android and you've gone through the check-in process with Disney Cruise Line, firsthand) please let us know in the comments!

➜ Your Check-In Should be Good to Go!

Though there used to be another step to clear “Safe Passage by Inspire Diagnostics” (aka: “Safe Passage”) through the end of September 2022 for some of the Disney Cruise Line ships (Disney Dream, Wish, Wonder, and Fantasy) and through November 7 for Disney Magic, you no longer need to do this. Thank goodness this is a thing of the past!

Visit DCL's “ Know Before You Go ” page for the latest updates.

➜ How long did the Disney Cruise Line Online Check-In Process Take Us?

It took us 50 minutes to complete the DCL online check-in process. In an ideal world, it should have only taken 20 minutes. But it is what it is.

To reiterate a sentiment we mentioned earlier: we're all at the mercy of Disney Cruise Line's website speed and how well it works – or doesn't work – when you check in.

Our fingers and toes are crossed, and we're knocking on all the wood for you that the website is working and it's quick and painless when you go to check in! If it's not working, simply keep logging back in and refreshing things.

⭐️ Important Information Regarding your DCL Port Arrival Time and Sail-Day Embarkation

There is nothing quite like the morning you board a Disney Cruise ship. The excitement is almost unbearable!

I always look forward to driving to Port Canaveral from Orlando and seeing that first glimpse of the iconic DCL cruise ship stack in the distance. It comes into view as you cross over the second bridge on A1A to get to the port.

The most important thing to know about arriving at the terminal is that you can only arrive within your Port Arrival Time window . This is the 15-minute time block that you chose when you checked in.

Don't arrive an hour earlier, hoping they let you embark early. Though we have heard if they are running ahead of schedule they might let you arrive early, it would be a bummer if they say no and then you have to find something to do to kill thirty minutes or an hour of time. Especially because it's not quite enough time to explore Cape Canaveral .

If you forget your Port Arrival Time, you can easily view it on your Port Arrival Form. It's also in your iPhone Wallet if you added the cards to the iPhone Wallet app.

If you arrive early, they will tell you to come back later during your scheduled time. They might tell you to come back later after several other time blocks clear if you arrive late.

⭐️ Disney Cruise Line Check In FAQs

✦ if one reservation in our traveling party has concierge but the rest of us don't, can we get in with the concierge guests.

No, there is no formal way to do that. But we have heard that once you're at the port, you can simply ask someone who works there if they'll allow you to board as a group at the earlier boarding time. Sometimes they say yes.

✦ I accidentally only registered half of our party for check in, then realized later and now my group has two different Port Arrival Times. Can I change the later ones to be earlier?

The answer is no, you cannot change the later time to be earlier. But you can arrive later than your Port Arrival Time and board as a whole group with later group.

✦ We're doing a closed-loop cruise and don't have a passport. What do we need to upload for documentation proof?

You must have a photo or scan of a birth certificate and photo ID ready to upload upon check in if you don't have a passport. Note that this is only true of a cruise that starts and ends in a US port and goes to certain areas.

If you have a passport, then — without a doubt — upload that as your photo documentation.

✦ We will be checking in ten people for our Disney Cruise. Would it be best for three people to do 3 or 4 check ins so that we can get the same boarding time?

One person can do all the check-ins for your cruise. You can link all the reservations into one account and change between them easily. Just make sure the one person who is checking everyone in has everything we mention that you need to do it. (Security photos, passports or birth certificate info, etc.)

Our check-in printable has a checklist on it to ensure you’re prepared for check-in! Be sure to download that.

✦ When in the process of doing the check-in steps. Do you need to go through them in order or can you jump ahead to selecting the Port Arrival Time first and then go back and fill the rest?

The system will not allow you to select a Port Arrival Time until you’ve completed the previous steps.

✦ Can you take photos of your passports and upload those photos when checking in? Or do you actually need to create a file (pdf)?

You can take photos of the passports on your phone to upload. Just make sure that the photos you create are glare-free and all the information is legible.

✦ We’re staying at Walt Disney World before and after our cruise. Should I mark “no” when it asks if we’re flying in?

Our Disney Travel Agent, Becca Plans Vacations , helped us with the official answer to this question. If you won’t have a car at the port, say you’re flying in even if it’s at the start of your WDW trip.

✦ Is it best to check in on the app through your phone or on a computer?

It's best to do it in the app on your phone. However, we know some people check in through their computers, especially if they need bigger fonts for eyesight reasons or they have trouble pressing small links and buttons on their phone.

Some people even have their phone and computer in front of them to see what's faster. Do what's best for you, but we personally stick to the app.

✦ What happens if you arrive 30 or 40 minutes prior to port arrival time?

If you arrive before your Port Arrival Time , ask the staff if they'll let you arrive early. If they're running early that day they might, but they may also tell you that you have to come back later.

✦ How long does the security check usually take at Port Canaveral?

We have embarked at Port Canaveral many times. It usually takes about an hour or less from parking our car to getting inside the terminal. Twenty to thirty minutes is a good approximation for the security line itself. However, that's just getting through security.

The time you board the ship is dependent upon the boarding time you receive once you arrive at the port and go through security.

⭐️ What to Do After You Check-in for Your Disney Cruise

➜ mark your calendar with important dates.

You'll want to mark your calendars with the date below. (Don't forget to get our Free Check-in Cheat Sheet Printable if you haven't already, which makes counting the days super easy.)

• After check-in, before you sail: Enjoy booking things like special dinner reservations at Enchanté , Palo, or Remy's, depending on the Disney Cruise Line ship you'll be on. You can also book spa treatments in the app and schedule gifts, like flowers or chocolate-covered strawberries, for delivery to your stateroom. (Read our “Start to Pack for Your Disney Cruise” info below for great things to purchase and bring onboard to decorate your room.)
• 3 days before your cruise is when online bookings for cruise activities close, like spa treatments and dining reservations.
• The day before you sail : mark your calendar to buy wine or beer if you want to bring some onboard. But seriously…mark your calendar to go to a local wine/beer store if you want to bring some on board. This way, you won't have to worry about it the day you embark! Disney's policy is as follows:

Disney Cruise Line Guests 21 years and older may bring a maximum of 2 bottles of unopened wine or champagne (no larger than 750 ml) or 6 beers (no larger than 12 ounces) on board at the beginning of the voyage and at each port of call. These beverages must be packed in carry-on (not checked) bags or luggage. Guests wishing to consume wine or champagne that they have brought on board in one of the dining rooms will be charged a corking fee of $25.00 per bottle. Disney's Policy stated on their website

• Date for the day you sail . (Just in case you haven't already marked it in your calendar!) You'll also want to set a reminder to complete the Pre-Trip Embarkation Health Questionnaire , which is available in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app on your embarkation day.

If you need to figure out any dates above, simply Google, “What day is __ days before [enter your sailing date]” and Google will show you the date in its results. It's a beautiful thing.

➜Start to Pack for Your Disney Cruise

When we come back from one trip, we're always excited for the next. Whether you're cruising as adults only on Disney Cruise Line or looking forward to a DCL sailing with the entire family, we know it's never too soon to think about packing.

If you're going to the theme parks before or after your trip, be sure to check out our Ultimate Year-Round Walt Disney World and Universal Packing List , which includes a helpful printable.

➜ Order Cruise Essential Items in Advance

This is because you may need to order some cruise items ahead of time, which might take time to ship. Such things as Blissets (which are awesome and fashionable anti-nausea bands ), or perhaps custom Disney Cruise Line attire on Etsy , take time to arrive at your doorstep.

Other things may be available on Amazon, where you can use Prime to ship within days. If you don't already have a Prime account, now is the perfect time to sign up for a free 30-day trial so you'll get free shipping.

We also have a list of Cruise Essentials for you to browse in our Amazon shop , from handheld fans to beat the heat to Apple AirTags if you're checking luggage, to reef-safe sunscreen, and more.

➜ Get Trip Insurance

If you didn't opt for Disney's trip insurance but still want to explore covering your trip, it may not be too late! We never get trip insurance through the cruise line because it's more cost affective to get it elsewhere and we like what third-parties include.

⭐️ Disney Cruise Activities: Make any Desired Reservations from Dining to the Spa and Port Excursions

As your cruise countdown continues, you can do some additional things in the app. For example, you can make reservations or appointments for dining and the spa ahead of time. You can access this online app feature up to three days before your cruise.

If dining (like Enchante on the Disney Wish , for example) is showing as unavailable, that usually means there are no more advance reservations available. (In that case, you'll want to ask about how to make a reservation while on board the day you embark.)

Port excursions and spa reservations can also be made in advance from within the app.

If a spa treatment, or appointment for Hook's Barbery on Disney Wish , is showing as “Sold Out,” you may want to check about availability once you board the ship on embarkation day.

Cruise Essential FOR YOUR TROPICAL VACATION:

The only thing we have tried that gets rid of bug bites from your skin is The Bug Bite Thing . This item is a MUST pack when we travel. We always pack one in our backpack/day bag and another in our luggage. Don't travel without it!

⭐️ Things to Do Nearby in Port Canaveral

If you are sailing from Disney Cruise Line's Port Canaveral Terminal and are looking for things to do nearby, we've got you covered!

There are many great activities, whether you have a few hours, half a day, a full day, or multiple days.

Check out our recommendations for things to do near Port Canaveral and make the most of your trip to the Florida coast! (Or “Space Coast,” as it's called!)

Can't get enough of Disney Cruise Line?

Discover more:.

• Guide to Disney Castaway Club: Membership Levels & Benefits
• Disney Cruise Line WiFi Packages & Pricing Vital Info
• Disney Cruise Line Embarkation Day: Vital Port Canaveral Info
• Disney Wish Design Details Guests Will Gush Over

Disney Cruise Ships Ranked, According to DCL Experts

• Disney Cruise For Adults: What to Experience on DCL Without Kids
• Adventures by Disney River Cruises: Your Questions Answered
• Palo Brunch vs. Dinner on Disney Wish: Which Wins?
• Disney Wish Enchanté Restaurant: Is It Worth It?
• Enchante Review: Menu Course-by-Course (With Photos) on Disney Wish

Going on a Disney Cruise? Get this:

• Anti-Nausea Medication and Other Cruise Sea Sickness Solutions 

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30 comments.

When in the process of doing the check-in steps. Do you need to go through them in order or can you jump ahead to selecting the Port Arrival Time first and then go back and fill the rest?

Great question, Sebastian. Unfortunately, it will not allow you to select a Port Arrival Time until you’ve completed the steps before it!

We will be checking in ten people for our Disney Cruise. Would it be best for three people to do 3 or 4 check ins so that we can get the same boarding time?

Hi Kathryn – One person can do all the check-ins for your cruise. You can link all the reservations into one account and change between them easily. Just make sure the one person who is checking everyone in has EVERYTHING you need to do it, which we reference in this post. (Security photos, passports or birth certificate info, etc.) Our check-in printable has a checklist on it to ensure you’re prepared for check-in! Be sure to download that through this post. – Mikkel + Dan

We just finished our check-in. There were five people in our party, and we got it done in about 30 minutes, and got an 11:30 port arrival time! I’m pleased.

One hint: if you have a choice between using normal passports or passport cards, keep in mind that passport cards are really easy to photograph, because they lay flat like a credit card or driver’s license. You’ll need to take pictures of both the front and back, but that’s easy.

There are five in our party. Four had passport cards, and one had only a regular passport book. The passport cards worked beautifully, and the app was able to read them to determine the passport numbers, expiration dates, birthdates, names, etc. But the check-in app was unable to read our (admittedly imperfect) photo of the regular passport, so I had to manually read and type in all that info. The passport cards were much easier to deal with.

The passport book is required for international air travel, so everyone in our party has one of those. I was glad that most of our party additionally had the passport cards.

Thank you so much for your comment, Rich! This is very helpful to know. I’m going to add it to the post, but note that passport books are only good for certain countries, just in case someone checking in is going to Europe, for example, for their cruise. I’m glad most of your party had the passport cards too. Great tip! – Mikkel

Can you take screen shots of the passports and upload those photos when checking in or do you actually need to create a file (pdf) for the passports and such? Thanks for the information!

You should be able to if you give the app access to your photos.

We’re staying at Disney World before and after our cruise in April. Should I mark “no” when it asks if we’re flying in? It asks where you’re staying after the cruise but not before, so do we not need to put that anywhere? We’ll be using DCL transportation coming and going.

Hi Jillian! Our Disney Travel Agent, Becca Plans Vacations, helped us with the official answer for you. DCL transport overrides port arrival time so don’t stress about the time you get when you do Disney Cruise Line check-in, in the DCL app. If you won’t have a car at the port, say you’re flying in even if it’s at the start of your WDW trip.

Is it best to do this on a phone or laptop/desktop (actual computer) ?

It’s best to do it on the app through your phone.

I found when checking in several people, it was easier to use my computer to quickly find all the photos to upload. My chubby fingers easily make mistakes on my iphone.

Thank you for that tip, Barb! Have the best time on your Disney Cruise!

What do you do if you arrive 30 or 40 minutes prior to port arrival time?

If you arrive in your own car or private shuttle, you can try to see if they’ll let you come in early but they may turn you away. It could depend on the day or who you talk to. If you arrive in a DCL shuttle (Disney-owned) then they will let you come into the port when you arrive.

Is the check-in 12AM EST when the app clicks to 30 days, or is it technically 12 AM EST when the app clicks to 29 days? I’m getting conflicting information between the app and the web site. The website says 30 days, and the app says a date that’s 29 days left.

Hi Dan! Go by what the app tells you when you’re logged in, which should be the first minute of 30 days before cruise embarkation day. Hope that helps! – Mikkel + Dan

We are a group of 11 people from 3 family groupings. If one person checks all of us in, and gives one credit card, is it possible to change the credit card information after check in so that each family can use a separate credit card?

Hi Marie! We recommending checking in with 1 credit card. Then, after you’re onboard, go to Guest Services to divvy up the accounts and corresponding credit cards as you wish! Hope that helps. – Mikkel + Dan

How long does the security check usually take? We have an arrival time of 12:30, and a massage booked for 1:30 (the only time available for day 1). Is that cutting it too close? I’ve seen some say it was backed up, but that was also during the first few sailings so I’m hoping the kinks are worked out.

Hi Matt! Great question. The security line is pretty fast. It’s usually 10-20 minutes. The only delay we had last time, and why it took more than 20 minutes, was because the US Coast Guard made a surprise visit to the port/ship which delayed their boarding process, which backed up security a little at 11:30 am. This was before guests could board. But it’s pretty rare that happens. Don’t hesitate to tell people that you have a massage booked at 1:30 pm on the ship, just like you’d tell airport TSA if your flight was boarding sooner than later. Everyone at the port is very nice! A lot of FL retirees are working there and they’re very kind and understanding. 🙂 If you arrive at 12:20/12:30 pm for your 12:30 pm port arrival time and head to security efficiently, tell the person who gives you the boarding group number – in particular – that you have a massage. That may help! You could even say “I don’t know if you have any pixie dust on you today, but we’re trying to make a massage for the only time they had left onboard and it’s in less than an hour.” kind of thing. Good luck! Enjoy the massage! – Mikkel

I found your site a few days ago and came back to tell you thank you! This post was incredibly helpful and our checkin process was flawless. I had all the photos ready and waiting on my phone, edited to the correct size. Well written!

Thank you so much, Amber! Comments like yours make us smile from ear to ear and are exactly why we post the content we do…to help other cruisers!!! – Mikkel + Dan

Is a photo with Minnie ears on acceptable for the check in photo?

That’s a good question, Bri. We haven’t tried, so we’re not sure. It’s kind of like a headband so I would think as long as it’s not obstructing your face it is okay. If you try, let us know! – Dan + Mikkel

hello! Did the photo work? with ears? Thank you!

That’s a great question! We don’t know because the person didn’t write back after trying. We’re not even sure she tried!

Just curious if the check-in time you mention is Eastern Time bacause that is the time zone the cruise leaves from. We are cruising out of San DiegoWill the check-in time still be Eastern Time, or will it be Pacific Time?

Hi Pam – please refer to the section in this article that is titled “⭐️ CHECK IN TO YOUR DISNEY CRUISE LINE SAILING 30 DAYS PRIOR TO EMBARKATION: TIMEZONE INFO” – it explains that check in is always EST. Hope that helps – Happy cruising!

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Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line Check-In

If you’re going on a Disney Cruise Line sailing, you’ll be checking in for your cruise online. Here’s everything you need to know about the process.

When do I check in?

Check-in becomes available at midnight Eastern Time, on staggered dates based on your Castaway Club status . You’re not required to check in at that exact time, but many guests choose to sacrifice sleep to complete their check-in right at midnight.

Is this a recent change on when I can check in?

DCL has tinkered with check-in timing several times during the past few years.

Pre-pandemic, Disney Cruise Line offered staggered check-in dates, based on your DCL Castaway Club status or whether you were sailing in a Concierge level stateroom. From the return to sailing during summer 2021 through April 2023, check-in opened prior to sailing for all guests at 30 days in advance. In May 2023, DCL returned to a staggered date program.

What are the new check-in dates?

As of May 2023, the following dates apply:

• Pearl Castaway Club members and Concierge Staterooms: 40 day prior to sailing
• Platinum Castaway Club members: 38 days prior to sailing.
• Gold Castaway Club members: 35 days prior to sailing.
• Silver Castaway Club members: 33 days prior to sailing.
• First Time Cruisers: 30 days prior to sailing.

I went to check in at midnight and encountered multiple computer problems. Help!

Disney is known for its glitchy websites. The resumption of staggered check-in should help a bit, but you never know what you might encounter.

You’re less likely to have problems if there is only one DCL ship opening its check-in on a particular date, but there’s not much you can personally do about this. Pack your patience and just try to go with it.

Do I have to check-in in the wee hours of the morning?

You can check in at any time between your check-in opening date and 3 days prior to your sailing. You should probably do it closer to opening day rather than 3, to give yourself time to rectify problems in case there are any hiccups with your documents. But you can certainly wait a day – and you’re much less likely to have computer problems if you wait to check in until mid-day.

If check-in is wonky at midnight, then why do people make a big deal about being online at Cinderella time?

The only real advantage you might gain by checking in early is that you’ll have a better chance at snagging an early port arrival time if you’re among the first on your sailing to check in.

With the staggered check-in dates, Pearl and Platinum guests should not have any problem securing their preferred port arrival time. Concierge guests may arrive at the port whenever they like.

Why do I care about getting an early port arrival time?

Folks with the earliest port arrival times get on the ship first. Currently the earliest arrival times are in the 11:00 a.m. range, depending on the sailing.

If you’re among the first on board the ship on embarkation day, you’ll have a few moments of calm. You can get some epic photographs of empty ship spaces, you’ll have first crack at booking last minute spa or adult dining appointments, and you’ll have first dibs on possible stateroom upgrades (for a fee). If you aren’t anticipating any last minute onboard chores, the difference in an hour or two in your port arrival time likely won’t matter much.

There is also a subset of guests who prefer a later arrival time. These might be people with children who nap in the late morning or early afternoon, who have work or school calls they must complete before boarding, or who don’t want to be on the ship until they can go directly to their stateroom (which typically happens at about 1:30 p.m.).

Note: Pre-pandemic, Platinum and Concierge level Castaway Club members could arrive at the port at any time and get in the next available boarding group. Now all non-Concierge guests must select a port arrival time. 

I’m a new DCL cruiser. Does that mean I’ll only have late port arrival times available when I check in?

Yeah, maybe. But try not to stress about it too much. You’ll have a wonderful time on the ship, regardless of what time you board.

Does check-in impact when I book my port excursions and onboard activities?

No, this is an entirely different set of tasks.

You are allowed to book port excursions, adult dining, nursery appointments, and many onboard activities after you’ve paid in full for your cruise AND your personal booking window opens. Booking windows for these items are based on your Castaway Club status, but occur at an entirely different set of dates.

How do I get started?

Well before your check-in date, you should have a Disney Cruise Line online account. Make sure that you can log into this account and that your cruise is listed in the My Reservations Section.

When your check-in window opens, go to the site and click the Online Check-In button in the My Disney Cruise menu.

What are the components of online check-in?

Check-in involves Disney collecting information about:

• Guest identity and contact information
• Payment for onboard spending
• Travel plans to/from the port
• Port arrival time selection
• Accepting your cruise contract.

If you’re traveling with minors, you’ll have additional sections about Youth Activity Registration and Traveling with Minors.

What do I need for identification information?

During online check-in you will upload a photo or scan of your required citizenship documents. For most folks, this will be an image of the passport pages that include your signature, photo, legal name, and passport number. Other folks on closed loop cruises from the United States (cruises that start and end at the same point) may be able to use alternative documentation such as an original birth certificate AND a government issued-photo ID. See the Disney Cruise Line website for the complete list of acceptable citizenship documentation .

Your required identification documents may vary depending on your citizenship and destinations visited.  It is your responsibility to check with your travel agent, government agency, embassy or consulate to ensure that you have all the proper documentation to board the ship and enter each of the countries on your cruise. U.S. travelers can visit the U.S. State Department’s travel website  or call the U.S. National Passport Information Center at (877) 4USA-PPT [877-487-2778] for more information.

Whichever documents you’re using, the photos/scans of these items should be in focus and free of shadows, glare, or other distractions. A member of the Touring Plans team had to resubmit an image of a family member’s birth certificate because their scan of that document had a tiny fold in the corner. Getting a glare-free photo of a passport can be oddly challenging. You may find it helpful to have a second person hold the passport upright while you snap a picture, rather than laying it flat on a table.

If you’re using a drivers’ license as part of your identity documents, you will need photos of the front and back of the license.

For check-in, you’ll need to have images of the required documents for all members of your party , including children.

You will also need to physically type in much of the information that exists on your documents. For example, you’ll need to type in your passport number as well as uploading a scan.

You may find that Disney has auto-populated some fields during online check-in. For example, if you’ve sailed recently with DCL, your passport information may already be keyed in from your previous trip. PLEASE double check that the information is correct.

Passports or other identification information will also be reviewed in person at the port prior to embarkation. YOU MUST ALSO BRING THESE ITEMS WITH YOU TO THE PORT.

I’ve heard people talk about photos for identification. What’s that about?

During the check-in process, you will need to upload a individual photo of each member of your party, including children.

The photo you upload must be a color picture with no filters, one person per photo, with a neutral background. You cannot wear a hat or sunglasses in the photo, or any glasses that obscure your eyes. You cannot use the same picture that is on your passport.

As long as you follow these guidelines, you’ll find that a selfie or a child’s school photo often works.

Why do I need to upload a photo?

Pre-pandemic, DCL took a photo of every guest at the port just prior to embarkation. They stopped this practice as a way to thin out crowds and reduce time spend gathering in close quarters at the port. Your uploaded check-in photo is the replacement for the embarkation identification photo.

These pictures are used by ship crew as identification while you’re on board and when you exit and enter the ship during port stops.

Your picture doesn’t need to be perfect or glamorous, it just needs to allow the crew to accurately identify you. Simpler is better.

The check-in says I need to provide emergency contact. Who should I put?

The odds of your emergency person being contacted are extremely small. Just pick any competent close friend or family member. However, you must choose someone that’s not traveling with you.

What information do I need to complete the onboard payment section?

This is the section where you’ll input a credit or debit card that will be used for onboard charges such as adult beverages or dining, spa treatments, port adventures and the like. You may also elect to use a cash account for onboard charges. If you’re traveling with more than one adult, you can designate different payment methods for each.

You can also grant, or choose not to grant, charging privileges to minors in your party.

I’m traveling with kids. What else do I need to know about check-in?

If you have guests in your party under age 18, you’ll have an additional section of check-in to complete. This is where you can register them for kids’ clubs (you can also do this at the port or while on board).

During check-in, you can also complete a debarkation permission form, if needed. Debarkation permission allow children to disembark the ship with an adult not staying in their stateroom. For example, if you’re traveling with extended family across several staterooms, you might want to give permission for, say, a grandparent staying in a different stateroom, to take a child off the ship.

How do I fill out the travel section of the check-in form?

If you’re flying to your cruise port, you’ll need to provide your flight numbers and dates/times of travel in both directions. This helps Disney plan the flow of guests embarking and debarking, as well as giving them an additional means to assess your whereabouts if you’re running late for your cruise.

If you don’t happen to have your flight information available when you’re completing online check-in, just say that you’re not flying in for your cruise. You can add flight information later.

If you’ve paid for Disney transfers to/from a hotel or airport, make sure that the appropriate button is clicked on.

If you’re staying at a local hotel before or after your sailing, DCL will also want to know this.

How do I select a port arrival time?

Once you’ve completed the bulk of the check-in tasks, you’ll have the opportunity to select a port arrival time. Concierge guests may arrive at any time, but everyone else must choose a time. Typically options are available in 15 minute increments beginning at about 11:00 a.m. and ending at about 3:30 p.m., but there are variations depending on the port and the itinerary.

Most guests will opt to select the earliest arrival time available, but as mentioned above there may be circumstances where you prefer to have a later arrival window.

In the post-COVID era, Disney has been stricter about port arrival times, but things have loosened up in recent months. In general, plan to arrive at the port no earlier than half an hour prior to designated time.

The check-in process includes a contract. What is this?

The Cruise Contract is the official document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both you and DCL related to your cruise. There are different versions for cruises in different locations. You’ll have the opportunity to print the contract or have an electronic version of it sent to your email address.

There’s a lot of technical, legal info in the contract, but it makes sense to give it a read, particularly if you’re a first time guest or haven’t sailed in many years.

To complete check-in, you must scroll to the bottom of the contract and accept it.

How do I make requests for things like seating in the main dining rooms?

You can make DCL preference requests in the online check-in section of the DCL website, but you can do most of this at any time after you’ve make your booking. There’s no need to wait until  30 days before your trip.

See our full post on understanding DCL preferences for more details on this topic.

Do I need to test for COVID or provide proof of vaccination as part of the check-in process?

Not currently.

During the early post-pandemic return to sailing, Disney, along with most other major cruise lines, required that guests undergo varying sorts of pre-cruise COVID testing or levels of vaccination. There are currently no COVID-related requirements to cruise and no COVID-related components of check-in.

Disney could choose to reinstate these or similar requirements at a future date if COVID rates, or the incidence of any other communicable disease, become elevated. Be sure to check the Know Before You Go section of the DCL website several times in the weeks and months leading up to your cruise.  (Note: There are different versions of this section depending on your itinerary. Look for different rules if your sailing departs from the United States, Canada, Europe, or Australia and New Zealand.)

How do I know that I’m done with check-in?

When check-in is complete, you’ll be issued a port arrival form. You can download this and/or have it emailed to you.

The arrival form will state your port arrival time and boarding group, along with QR codes for your party members. You WILL NEED THIS FORM AT THE PORT. Be sure to bring it with you (both print and electronic versions of the form are OK).

Should I use the Disney Cruise Line website or the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for check-in?

You can do either, but I prefer using the website on my computer. I find that it’s easier to read all the little boxes that must be checked and to upload documents using a larger screen, but that’s my personal choice. Whichever version you opt for, make sure you have a strong Internet connection and that all your photos/scan are easily accessible on your device.

Why does the check-in section of the DCL website say “pending” even after I’ve uploaded all the documents and completed all the forms?

DCL uses humans to review all the identity documents and photos – and this takes some time. It often takes a few weeks for your documents to clear this process. Don’t even begin to stress about this until a week prior to sailing.

When your check-in forms have been successfully reviewed, you will receive an email notification. As an example of typical time for review, I received this “Check-In Finalized” email on February 19 for a sailing departing on March 4.

If you still see “pending” a few days before sailing, you may want to give DCL a call to see what’s up. And as in all cases, be sure to bring all your documents with you to the port.

If you’re looking for additional advice and planning assistance with any Disney Cruise Line sailing, be sure to check out the Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line .

Note: Updates made May 1, 2023. 

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Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

6 thoughts on “ Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line Check-In ”

This is SO helpful!! Especially the screenshots! Thank you!

You really need a good editor for this page.

Do you know if this staggered check-in process will affect the reserving of the Royal Gathering. My girls have their hearts set on that, but we are silver members.

This is brand new today, so we’re still working on getting a full assessment of the situation. Stay tuned.

Note regarding web vs phone app. On my last cruise there was lots of grumbling because people couldn’t check in via computer. The app worked. Of course I had all my files to upload on the computer and had all kinds of problems getting them on my phone. Lesson learned: be ready to use either and switch if your preferred method doesn’t work.

Good tip! It’s incredibly frustrating that the site is so fickle and unpredictable.

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A Disney Cruise Line Online Check-In Cheat Sheet

5/3/2023   |   Cruises

It’s almost here! You have been dreaming of setting sail on your Disney cruise for months and months, and the time has finally come!

Soon you will be able to complete your online check-in. To keep you from being one of those frustrated sailors in your Facebook group, we are going to prepare you for smooth sailing through the online check-in process by making sure you are armed and ready with everything you need!

Check-In dates vary by your Castaway Cay level or if you are sailing Concierge:

- Pearl / Concierge Level = 40 days prior to sailing - Platinum Level = 38 days prior to sailing - Gold Level = 35 days prior to sailing - Silver Level = 33 days prior to sailing - First time Disney Cruise Line cruisers = 30 days prior to sailing

Before Your Online Check-In Date:

- Confirm the exact spelling and full name of each guest between your Disney Cruise Line reservation and the government-issued identification you will be using for boarding. (Passport, birth certificate, etc.). They must match exactly. - Confirm the expiration date of the government-issued identification you will be using for boarding. - Be sure you have already created your DisneyCruiseLine.com and have linked your cruise reservation(s). - Download the official Disney Cruise Line Navigator app and checked for any updates.

- Make sure you have linked any other friends’ or family’s reservations to your reservation so that you are seated together at dinner and can book activities together. - Confirm that you have booked your on-board activities and shore excursions. (The booking window for this also varies depending on your Castaway Club status or if you are sailing in a concierge stateroom. If you are unsure of the date, you can start booking, pull up your reservation on DisneyCruiseLine.com).

You can cancel activities and excursions up until 3 days before your sailing.

Triple check your Online Check-In Date on the app or at DisneyCruiseLine.com. Remember: the check-in time is Midnight Eastern Time on your check-in day. Meaning, if your check-in date is Tuesday April 18, you can start the check-in process at midnight Eastern on Monday night.

Important: Online check-in closes at midnight the day before your cruise. If online check-in is not completed by then, you may be denied boarding.

What to Have Ready at Check-In*:

- A clear photo of each passenger’s passport. Be sure there is no glare and that you can easily read the passport number, name, issue and expiration date, and the photo is clear.

- Passports need to remain valid for a minimum of 6 months after your debarkation date and have at least a few blank pages available. (Requirements can vary by country).

- A clear photo of each passenger. This should be different than the passport photo and should be a solo photo of the guest from the shoulders up. Select a photo that has a plain background.

- Flight information (even if you are not using Disney transportation)

- Pre- and Post-Cruise hotel information

- A credit card to keep on file for onboard purchases

- Name and phone number of an emergency contact not traveling with you

* I recommend having copies of your passports and photos on both your computer and phone in case the website or app is not working for you. This will reduce possible delays in having to transfer the information over while checking in.

At midnight Eastern time on your online check-in date:

Remember: the check-in time is Midnight Eastern Time on your check-in day. Meaning, if your check-in date is Tuesday April 18, you can start the check-in process at midnight Eastern on Monday night.

You will be able to log in to your Disney Cruise Line account (I personally prefer the app), select your sailing, and click on “Begin Check-In.” Click through each step in order. The icons on the right will fill in as each section is completed.

- Guest Information - Onboard Account - Travel Plans - Port Arrival Time

Port Arrival Time (PAT). Most people will select the earliest time available so there is more time to explore the ship before you sail away. You will also be automatically assigned a Boarding Group.

Note: if you are staying at a Walt Disney World resort hotel and have booked the Disney Cruise Line transfer, you will not be asked to select a Port Arrival Time.

- Cruise Contract

Once you have completed your Online Check-In, you will see the message “You’re All Set to Sail!” You can check back periodically before your cruise to ensure your documents have been reviewed by a cast member and your check-in has been upgraded from “Pending” to “Complete.”

Be sure to print out (and you can also add it to your digital wallet on your iPhone) your Port Arrival Form.

At the 30 day mark, you will also be able to:

- Book the Princess Gathering. This princess meet-and-greet is included in your cruise fare, but it requires a reservation and is limited due to the popularity. - Purchase a photo package. Purchasing in advance will be the least expensive pricing available. You can opt to purchase once on-board at a higher price. Disney Visa holders get a discount on-board, but the pre-purchase price that is offered to all guests will be the best pricing.

Make sure to add any special requests which is very easy to do directly in the app. This can include things like: high chairs, bedrails and cribs; dietary requests; celebration planning. This should be done at least 5 weeks prior to your sail date. Additional requests for food allergies and accessibility assistance/medical equipment can be requested on the Special Services Form.

Website Glitches:

Remember: technology is not perfect. If you are getting an error message in the app, try the website. If you are getting an error on the website, try the app. If neither works, try an incognito browser/window on your device.

Disney Cruise Line can be reached at 800-951-3532, or contact your Me and The Mouse Travel Specialist. (Please note - Disney Cruise Line will not answer specific questions regarding your reservation or make any changes for you if you are booked with a travel agent).

Special Situations:

- What if we have multiple staterooms to check in?

If you have several staterooms to check in, you can opt to have each stateroom have their own account and try to coordinate as best you can with Port Arrival Times.

Alternatively, you can link the reservations to one account so that one person can be responsible for checking everyone in. That person would need to have all the information ready for each stateroom. They will still need to toggle between each reservation.

With either method, you likely will not get the same PAT. If this is the case, you can all arrive at the latest PAT time to board together.

- What if we do not have passports or are traveling on Visas?

For complete details on proper documentation for sailing on a Disney cruise, please refer to the official Disney Cruise Line website .

I strongly, strongly urge you to have a valid passport for everyone in your traveling party in case of emergency.

Just a few weeks to go!

Now that you're checked in, you can make a packing list, start putting your vacation essentials together, place your travel documents/Port Arrival Form/passports in a folder in a safe place, and look forward to stepping on board your Disney cruise!

Other helpful hints: Packing List Prohibited Items Alcohol Policy

Nancy loves sailing with Disney Cruise Line and would love to help your family plan their next adventure!

Tagged: cheat sheet , Disney Cruise , Disney Cruise Line , online check-in , Planning , Travel , trip , Vacation

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On-line Check-in Question

By helovestrains , February 1, 2023 in Disney Cruise Line

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helovestrains

Hi, when completing the on-line check-in do I need the physical passport or just the passport information?

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42 minutes ago, helovestrains said: Hi, when completing the on-line check-in do I need the physical passport or just the passport information?   Thanks.

They do ask you to download a photo of your passport (two pages - the one with the info and the other with the signature) when doing your online check in.  Also need head shot photos of each person.

1 hour ago, helovestrains said: Hi, when completing the on-line check-in do I need the physical passport or just the passport information?   Thanks.

In addition to what I already said.  Once you download the passport/photos it may say "pending review".  Don't worry about it.  Just keep on completing the checkin.  

The "pending review" just means they MIGHT need to confirm the passports when you actually check in at the terminal, and/or take new photos.  Also, the "pending" status MAY or MAY NOT clear before your cruise (usually about 3 days out).

Thanks Shmoo for your response.  You have been very helpful.

17 hours ago, helovestrains said: Thanks Shmoo for your response.  You have been very helpful.

You're welcome.  

WrittenOnYourHeart

Just a note that your headshot cannot be the same as your passport picture.

1 hour ago, WrittenOnYourHeart said: Just a note that your headshot cannot be the same as your passport picture.

Good to know.  Thanks!

I have another couple of questions.   Online check-in has been completed and the PAT Form states that we are to bring all documents submitted as part of Online check-in to the port.  Documents are pending review; when should they be printed? Before or after they are reviewed?  2nd Q--we received BG 12; any idea how long it might before we're on the ship?  Thanks again for your advice/help.

On 2/10/2023 at 6:25 AM, helovestrains said: I have another couple of questions.   Online check-in has been completed and the PAT Form states that we are to bring all documents submitted as part of Online check-in to the port.  Documents are pending review; when should they be printed? Before or after they are reviewed?  2nd Q--we received BG 12; any idea how long it might before we're on the ship?  Thanks again for your advice/help.

The only thing you print is the boarding pass.  This has your boarding information (Port Arrival Time and Muster Station location).

The "pending review" doesn't typically clear until about 3 days out from the cruise.

Typically, sometime around 12:30 or so, Open Boarding is announced.  

For our recent Wonder cruise our PAT was 12:45 with a boarding number of 16.  At 12:45 we were allowed to enter the terminal (San Diego) and by the time we stood in line to be cleared to enter the security check, go through security, and check in (3 separate areas each with their own lines, we boarded at 1:30.  

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Disney Cruise Line Emailing Guests Regarding Online Check-In Following Recent System Upgrade

Disney Cruise Line is in the process of emailing guests to inform them the online check-in should now be available following a recent system upgrade which left some unable to access Online Check-In for their upcoming cruise. This feature is now available for Guests to complete Online Check-In by submitting the required documents and selecting their Port Arrival Time. Online check-in can be completed or modified up to one day prior to sailing.

Below is a sample of the email sailing into inboxes.

03/14/2022 Reservation #: Dear We are writing with important information related to your upcoming Disney Cruise Line vacation. During a recent system upgrade, you may have not been able to access Online Check-In for your cruise. We want to let you know that the feature is now available and you are welcome to complete Online Check-in at this time. To get started, you will need to sign in to My Reservations on our website. Once signed in, it is important that you complete and submit the required documents as well as select a Port Arrival Time. All Guests, including our Platinum Castaway Club Guests, will need to select a Port Arrival Time. Guests arriving prior to their selected arrival time will be asked to return at the appropriate time. Online check-in can be completed or modified up to one day prior to sailing. We appreciate the planning that goes into a cruise vacation and look forward to providing you with an enjoyable experience. Sincerely, The Cast & Crew Disney Cruise Line

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11 Replies to “Disney Cruise Line Emailing Guests Regarding Online Check-In Following Recent System Upgrade”

I was able to check us in via the phone app about a week ago before the site was down for maint. Everything was there for me to check us in but the part where you had to photograph your passport or whatever you are using was difficult to use. Either the photo was wrong size or it was a partial photo so I had to take it several times before it would work. The selfie photo for the security was easy to do as I had lots to choose from on my phone. Be careful as they really will reject a photo if it does not meet with their requirements. Even though I checked us in, set the port arrival time, etc at the end of Feb. My check in portion of the process still reads as “pending review by castmember” for our photos two weeks later. we did get the mailer with our luggage tags though! Although I do have to say I miss the big booklets we used to get, I really enjoyed reading and re-reading them.

Yep, there was some major issues for the April 11th Magic cruise, apparently the website was adding charges and thus saying your not PIF and not allowing check in.

Scott, Do you think the added charges are fuel charges?

Also you can’t see your past cruises under the Castaway Cay link.

A few couple years ago, I quietly added “ My Cruise History ” to the website to allow readers to create an account and add cruises. Not only will it provide a list of past and future cruises, it will summarize your cruising history breaking out the number of sailings on each ship, and number of visits to each port of call.

Spent 4 hours on hold on Sunday, once I got through, confirmed that the extra charges were for charges such as port excursions that would normally not be charged until you get onboard. Looks like its been fixed by now.

Thank you, Robert. Do not need any more surprises.

Has anyone gotten an email saying final payment due soon when it is still months away from the 60 deadline? I got one for July 21st sailing saying my payment is due in 9’days instead of late May (60 days). Since phone lines are stacked right now just waiting to call but don’t know if anyone else for one. Thanks

We did too.

Got corrected date email today.

I’ve been on hold for 3 hours and 37 minutes and counting. I just love this new system. I feel so bad for the cast members. Hopefully I get through in the next hour and a half before they close the lines for the night.

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Disney Cruise Online Check In Process Explained

Are you looking for tips and information on navigating the Disney cruise check in process? The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App really comes in handy while sailing, but it also simplifies the registration and planning process before your trip even begins!

In addition to displaying the really exciting cruise countdown, the DCL Navigator App allows you to view the details of your reservation and book activities for your upcoming Disney cruise.

In this post, I will walk you through the Disney Cruise Line online check in process using the features of the Navigator App. We will discuss what time online check in begins, and I’ll give you tips on how to secure an early port arrival time along with coveted reservations.

So, continue reading below to find out all the tips and hacks you need to know for the Disney Cruise Line online check in process!

Disney Cruise Countdown

Once you download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App, you will be prompted to login to your DCL account. This is where you can create an account or type in your current login information.

The screen should then display the reservation for your upcoming cruise. After clicking on your reservation, you will see a countdown calculator similar to the one pictured above.

This countdown is a super exciting reminder of how many days you have until your cruise. It’s also a really important feature since some important deadlines occur before your cruise embarkation day .

When can you check in?

While on the Disney Cruise Navigator App, you can scroll down below your stateroom information to find the important steps you need to take for planning your Disney cruise. We will go through each of these My Reservations sections below:

My Reservations

In the spot labeled Cruise Essentials , you will find important things like your Disney Cruise Line balance and your reservation information. You will also see the online check in button in this section.

If you are a first time cruiser with Disney Cruise Line, you may check in 30 days prior to your sail date as long as you’ve made your final payment. If you have previously sailed with Disney Cruise Line, the check in days for each Castaway Club level are as follows:

• Silver Members – 33 Days before Sailing
• Gold Members – 35 Days before Sailing
• Platinum Members – 38 Days before Sailing
• Pearl Members – 40 Days before Sailing

What time does Disney cruise online check in start?

Once you arrive at the 30-day mark before your scheduled cruise (or sooner depending on Castaway Club level), you may be wondering what time you can actually complete online check-in for your Disney Cruise Line vacation. Online check-in should open at midnight EST (12:00 am Eastern Standard Time).

What do you need for online check in?

When you are ready to fully complete the Disney cruise check in process, you’ll need to have several items on hand. Below, I will list each of these so that you are prepared once your online check in window opens up.

First, you will need to have your official identification documents handy. We highly recommend cruising with a passport even if it is not necessarily mandated for your itinerary.

Even though many cruises sailing from the United States and back allow U.S. citizens to travel with a birth certificate instead, you will need a passport in the rare (but possible) event you have a medical emergency overseas.

To view a full list of the travel documents required for your sailing, you can check out the DCL website here . During the Disney cruise online check in process, you will need to submit a photo of each passport/birth certificate. Each image should be free from glares and clearly show the information.

Credit Card

You’ll need to assign a credit card to your Disney Cruise Line account. This is the card that you will use onboard when charging things through your Key to the World Card or DisneyBand+. If you need to change the card once onboard, you can visit Guest Services for help.

Flight and Hotel Information

Disney Cruise Line will request that you fill in your pre and post cruise travel information. So, you will want to have your reservation info. for flights and hotels handy to type in.

Photo of Each Passenger

Disney Cruise Line used to take photos of cruisers at the port during your cruise terminal check in process. However, you now need to upload a photo of each person in your travel party. These selfie style photos need to clearly show each passenger’s face above the shoulders in a similar style to a passport or driver’s license photo. (Although, they should not be the same photo that is on your ID.)

Disney Cruise Check in Process

When you are ready to fully complete the Disney cruise check in process, you’ll want to set aside close to an hour (if it’s your first cruise) to give yourself enough time to cover all the parts. I will go over each section of the tedious online check-in process below.

Once your window opens up for checking in, your Navigator App screen will include different sections like Guest Information, Onboard Account, Travel Plans, Port Arrival Time, etc.

You will need to go through each of the tabs to fill out the relevant information. While this can be a time consuming process; once you complete it, Disney saves your information for your next cruise.

I will explain each section in more detail below:

Guest Information

This is the section where you fill in your personal information and your passport/identification info. If you have previously sailed with Disney Cruise Line, this should already be completed for you. If your contact information or your passport information has changed from what is shown on your account, you will need to update it.

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Guests also need to upload a security photo (personal selfie) for each individual in your travel party. In addition, Disney Cruise Line requires guests to upload photos of their citizenship documents (birth certificate, passport, etc.).

Onboard Account

You will need to add a credit card to the Onboard Account section. While on the cruise, DCL charges gratuities and anything extra you choose to purchase to your online account. In this section, you can also choose whether or not to grant charging privileges to your family members.

Since my kids were 6 and 1 during our last sailing, they were not allowed to charge anything to the onboard account. If you have older kids, you can change this option to meet your needs.

Travel Plans

The Travel Plans tab asks for very specific information about your pre/post cruise plans. This includes the name of your hotel, flight information, etc. You can fill this out to the best of your ability during the check-in process. If you don’t yet have all of this information, you can always go back later and correct it. For example, you can choose to arrive by car if you don’t have your flight information yet.

Port Arrival Time (PAT)

Next, you will choose your Port Arrival Time. Once you click on this tab, you will see a list of times available for you to ARRIVE at the port. This is NOT the time that you will board the ship.

For example, if you select a Port Arrival Time of 11:00, that means you plan to show up at the cruise terminal at 11:00. It has been my experience that boarding does not typically begin until at least 11:30, so you shouldn’t expect to be on the ship immediately after arriving for your 11:00 PAT.

It’s also been our experience that if you purchased Disney Cruise Line ground transportation , you will not be prompted to choose an arrival time. Instead, you will be permitted to enter the cruise terminal once the DCL transfer shuttle drops you off at the port.

Cruise Contract and Port Arrival Form

Once you have completed online check in for your Disney cruise, you will be prompted to review the cruise contract. Then, your last step is to print the Port Arrival Form in the bottom tab. You will need this form on embarkation day when you arrive at the cruise terminal.

Note that you can save the Port Arrival Form QR Code to scan on your phone at the port. However, we like to also have a printed copy of the form and prefer to print it as well.

The Port Arrival Form now shows your Muster Station and Boarding Number. (In the past, you did not get this information until you received your Key to the World card in the terminal.)

After choosing your PAT, you can register your child for the kids club appropriate for his/her age. You may also note special needs or dietary restrictions for your child in this section. Additionally, you will need to choose who your child is permitted to disembark the cruise ship with.

Children are not allowed to get off the ship without an adult. However, there may be an adult in a different stateroom with whom your child is permitted to debark. For example, you can choose to allow your child to get off the ship with a grandparent staying in a different stateroom. You may choose to allow this at EVERY port, at just Castaway Cay, or not at all.

More App Features

In addition to the check in process for Disney Cruise Line that we discussed above, the Navigator App is a great resource for additional trip information and tasks.

Cruise Options

In this section of your account, you will see some of the options that were available for you to choose during your Disney cruise booking. This includes your dinner seating time, trip insurance, Disney cruise ground transfers, and special requests.

Note that if you are not happy with your dining time, you can call Disney Cruise Line to ask the cast members to move you to a different seating. If you booked through a travel agent, the agent will need to call to do this. Additionally, you can regularly check the app to see if a more desired seating opens up.

Finally, you can often switch seating times onboard the ship by meeting with crew members in the dining room during the specified changing time. You can find more information in my post: Disney Cruise Dining Rotation Explained .

The next section of your Navigator App displays the itinerary for the cruise you booked. This is where you will see your cruise broken down by day. Some of the important events available onboard will be listed here.

Once you book your activities, you will see them listed in this section as well. You can also click on the Add Activities button on your itinerary to add certain items to your plans.

Disney Cruise Onboard Activities Booking

If you are a first-time cruiser with Disney Cruise Line , you can book some of your cruise activities 75 days before sailing. Under your cruise itinerary on the Navigator App, you will see a section that looks like this:

You can click on each of the categories listed to book cruise activities offered. I will walk you through each of these below.

Disney Port Adventures

When you click on the section for port adventures (aka shore excursions), you will again see your cruise itinerary. Here, you can click on the ports you are scheduled to visit on your cruise. The app then takes you to a page that lists all of the available Disney port adventures at that location.

For example, if your cruise is visiting Castaway Cay , you will see excursions like bicycle rentals, parasailing, fly fishing, etc. After clicking on the port adventure that you want, you will be able to choose the family members that want to take part in that excursion.

Most of the options for port adventures have age restrictions. If you are cruising with a toddler , your available excursions will be narrowed down quite a bit.

The age restrictions are prominently displayed, and you won’t be able to click on the name of any family member not meeting the requirements. Next, you will see the available times for the excursion that you want to select. Choose the time that works best for you, and you’re finished!

Disney Spa & Fitness

When you click on the Spa & Fitness tab, you will be directed to your cruise itinerary. You can then select the day that you would like to book a fitness and spa appointments. Disney Cruise Line offers many activities in this section including facials, massages, manicures, personal training, etc.

Just like the section above, you can choose the activity and time that works best for you!It’s important to note that these appointments come with an additional cost and are not included with your cruise fare.

Onboard Fun

Under Onboard Fun in the Disney Cruise Ling Navigator App, you will find activities like wine tasting, Royal Tea, and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.

The princess meet and greet and the Frozen Gathering are also located in this section. These two events are free on your Disney cruise, but you must book a time to attend the character meet and greets because they are so popular.

After clicking on the activity, it’s super simple to choose a day and available time to attend the event. It will then show up in the itinerary section of the app.

When you get on the ship, you just show up at the meet and greet during your scheduled time slot. The cast member at the character meet should have your name on the list.

Adult Dining and Nursery Times

These two sections work the same way as the above activities. Here, you can select the date that is appealing to you. You will then be directed to choose a time for your specified activity, but you should note that you do not pay ahead of time. So, once you book your appointment, it should show up on your itinerary without any further steps.

Final Thoughts on the Disney Cruise Online Check-In Process

The Disney Cruise Line Navigator App and the Disney Cruise Line website are really helpful tools to use for online check-in. Whether your travel plans include leaving from Port Canaveral, Miami, or another cruise port, the Disney cruise online check in system works the same.

The only difference you may find is that port arrival times can vary depending on the port you are sailing from. We highly suggest downloading the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App prior to online check in since it allows you to easily access your reservation and book cruise activities. 

Once you are on the cruise ship, the Navigator App has even more helpful features, including texting! Once you complete each section in the app as described above, you should see a message that your checkin is pending .

Disney Cruise Line will review the information you entered along with your uploaded documents before confirming that your checkin is complete. You will then be ready to set sail to enjoy your cruise vacation.

We hope you have a magical time onboard the cruise ship and at your ports of call!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Thank you for such detailed information! I have two rooms to get checked in…do you think I could do both at the same time, just on two different devices? Also, if I leave travel info blank to start (to fill back in later) would I be able to still get a PAT?

I have never checked in for multiple rooms with Disney Cruise Line, but I linked my two rooms on a different cruise line in order check in for both. I just had to toggle back and forth between the two rooms. You will need to fill out the travel info in order to advance to the next page. But, I would fill out the least amount of info as possible in order to advance. Then, I would go back later and correct it all. For example, you could choose the cash option instead of typing in credit card information. And you could select arriving by car rather than typing out all of your flight information. Just don’t forget to go back and update information later. Have a great trip!

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How to Check-In for Your Disney Cruise

Updated January 25, 2024.

Online check-in is similar to pre-COVID sailing. You can begin using either the webpage or the app at 12:01 am Eastern Time. Your check-in date is based on your Castaway Club status.

• Pearl – 40 days before sailing
• Platinum – 38 days before sailing
• Gold – 35 days before sailing
• Silver – 33 days before sailing
• First-Time Disney Cruisers – 30 days before sailing

What Do I Need to Check in for My Disney Cruise?

If you haven’t downloaded the app, now is the time to do it; you will use it for most things on board. The biggest recommendation is to gather all your documents and take all your pictures BEFORE you start completing the form s. Have any flight and hotel information handy.

Guest Information

You will need to provide personal details, including address, contact info & emergency contact. You will need to include a clear image of your passport or proof of citizenship.  Also, you will need a photo/selfie of each guest for your onboard account security photo. The photos must be an image file like a jpg or a png. If you are taking your photos with your iPhone, you will need to export your photos as jpg . 

You will need a picture of the photo page of your passport. If you’re using a driver’s license, you will need to have a photo of the front and the back of it .

If DCL doesn’t accept your passport/proof of citizenship or security photo, they will email you to inform you that a new one is required.

Security Photo Tips

This should be a recent colour photo of you facing forward, from the shoulders up, with no filters . Your face should be fully and clearly visible; please remove eyewear that prevents your eyes from being seen and any items on top of your head . There should be no other people or objects included in the photo . We took ours in front of an empty wall.

It may take some time for your online check-in to change from pending to approved. Most are approved a few days before the sailing .

Onboard Account

You will need information on how you plan to pay your stateroom charges. Your credit card or debit card numbers and expiration dates. At this point, it will ask you which members will have charging privileges. If members of your party are paying for their own charges, you can enter their card information. You can not put a dollar limit on charging privileges.

Travelling With Children

Children under 3 years old can be registered for the Nursery if they cruise after October 2022 . If you are sailing before that date, you must sign up for the nursery once you are onboard. You can register kids ages 3-12 for the Oceaneers Club/Lab during check-in. Pre-teens and teens, they will register once you are onboard at the Edge and/or the Vibe.

Travel Plans

You will need information about your plans before & after the cruise. If you are flying in for the cruise, you need your flight details, including Airline, Flight Number, Departure Time, and Arrival Time. Also, you will need your plans to leave the port after the cruise.

PAT (Port Arrival Time)

This is why you are filling out this information at 12:01 am and not waiting until morning. It is your chance to choose your arrival time at the port.

Most people want to spend as much time on the ship as possible and are trying to get the earliest PAT. On our upcoming cruise, the earliest PAT was 10:45. We took Disney Transfers and received boarding group 3 with a PAT of 11:00 – 11:15. The earliest PATs depend on the port you are sailing out of; some ports have guests arrive later than others. Concierge Guests do not need to select a PAT.

Since Covid, they have been much stricter about arriving at your PAT. If you arrive earlier, you will likely be turned away .

Cruise Contract and Boarding Pass

Read & agree to the cruise contract and print or email the contract. You will be given a Boarding Pass with a QR Code when complete. You can add it to your Apple wallet.

You will need it throughout different stages of the boarding process. It is a good idea to have a printed copy if you encounter any technological problems. The QR code will be used to board the ship because you have not yet received your KTTW cards. Keep reading for details.

KTTW (Key to the World) Cards and lanyards will await you at your cabin in your Fish. You will no longer get your card at the desk in the port and use your QR code to board the ship.

Optional Forms

During check-in, you will also find some optional forms. They include authorization to administer an epi-pen , special services form , and authorization for minors travelling without a parent or legal guardian .

Bring your patience; the website can be glitchy, especially when check-in first opens, with many people attempting to check in. If you are using Disney transportation and are not concerned with an early PAT , it might be best to wait and check in later.

Check out the other  menus for the restaurants on the Wish . Keep checking back or sign up for our newsletter for the latest  Disney Cruise News , like  the return of pre-booking character meets , the current  pre-cruise Covid testing ,  Disney Cruise rumours , and the  latest discounts .

This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning, that if you make a purchase through my links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support of this site.

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Check-in Pending Approval

• Thread starter KashasMom
• Start date Sep 6, 2022

DIS Veteran

• Sep 6, 2022

Extended family checked-in and got message "Guest Information Pending Approval" . What does this mean and what needs to be done?  

lisaburnsmiles

Earning my ears.

We got that too - I believe that it's in that status until the passport photos are reviewed and "approved." It took a few days or bit more for our status to change.  

Nothing. Disney will review it closer to your cruise. We sailed on the 22nd and our stuff was approved on the 17th. The important part now is that you got your PAT and boarding group.  

JoeFromSeoul

Joe - now back in seoul.

• Sep 7, 2022

Our last cruise there were some whose pending status was removed in 24 hours while others were left worrying for weeks. In the end, anyone who didn’t test positive the day of made it on board.  

• Sep 8, 2022

What you got is exactly what you should get! It’s perfect and expected at this point. It means that you have successfully uploaded your picture and government ID for travel and now it goes into the queue for DCL to review. This review can take a while so don’t worry. In my sailings since restart I have yet to get approval more than a few days before sailing. Even if you don’t get approval it’s no big deal as they can fix it at the port with your travel documents when you present them there. Hopefully you got a PAT that is good for your travel party and get ready to enjoy the cruise. Next step is safe passage at 15 days out!  

Disneygirlxo91

Mouseketeer.

We sail tomorrow - we got an email our online check in was complete and it all shows completed when we look at it each is marked completely however app still shows pending. I’ve had it pending in the app up until a few days before but never this. I’ve printed out the email where it says it was completed, and everything showing completed  

Clarkson U said: What you got is exactly what you should get! It’s perfect and expected at this point. It means that you have successfully uploaded your picture and government ID for travel and now it goes into the queue for DCL to review. This review can take a while so don’t worry. In my sailings since restart I have yet to get approval more than a few days before sailing. Even if you don’t get approval it’s no big deal as they can fix it at the port with your travel documents when you present them there. Hopefully you got a PAT that is good for your travel party and get ready to enjoy the cruise. Next step is safe passage at 15 days out! Click to expand...

Don't worry. It might not get officially approved until a few days before sailing.  

WishUponAStarryNight

KashasMom said: Our extended family got pending approval. Ours went through fine - no pending. So pretty sure that wasn't what they should have gotten. I was just wondering what the difference was. Everyone's cruised before so it seemed odd. But...nothing about this cruise has been the usual! Click to expand...

WishUponAStarryNight said: Interesting…if your approval isn’t pending, then you’re the exception. I’ve never heard of this since the restart. Usually everyone is pending until close to the sail date. Click to expand...

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I have completed my online check in (but pending approval), and I fill out the consents for youth club. But how do I sign up my children for youth club? We need the kids to be at the club at a certain date/time since we have adult reservations/activitie. ”

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