Disney Cruise Line recently announced some changes that cruisers need to know as it may impact their travel plans.
Starting September 2nd, the all-aboard time for select sailings on the Disney Wish and Disney Magic will change from 4 PM to 3 PM.
Here we will explain what this change means, how it affects you, and how you can get ready for your Disney Cruise.

If you are sailing on one of the affected sailings you should have received this email from Disney Cruise Line:
We look forward to welcoming you aboard the [Disney Ship] and want to let you know about a change in the published All Aboard time for your sailing.
The All Aboard time for your sailing has recently changed from 4:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. All Guests must be onboard by 3:00 p.m. Guests arriving after 3:00 p.m. or without proper citizenship documentation will be denied boarding. Guests with independent flight arrangements may wish to check our website at disneycuise.com for the recommended fight-time guidelines for their departure port.
We apologize for any inconvenience this change may cause. It is our hope that Guests will enjoy getting their sailing underway an hour earlier.
Beginning approximately 30 days prior to your sailing, you will want to complete Online Check-in. Completing Online Check-In will streamline your port arrival experience. As part of this process, you will need to submit the required citizenship documents as well as select a Port Arrival Time. Online Check-in can be completed or modified up to one day prior to sailing.
Should you have questions about your upcoming voyage, please contact us at 1-866-325-6685 or 407-566-7797, or your travel advisor.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard soon.
Sincerely,
The Cast and Crew
Disney Cruise Line
Why the Change?
Disney Cruise Line hasn’t said exactly why they made this change.
Impact on Travelers
If you booked your own flights, you might need to change your travel plans.
Disney Cruise Line suggests checking the flight-time guidelines for your departure port to make sure you arrive on time.
It’s really important to be on time because if you miss the new all-aboard time, you could miss your cruise. We have seen that happen.
We always suggest arriving at least the day before your cruise. If you arrive on the same day you do run the risk that you will not make the all aboard time.
Related: Why This Hotel is the Ideal Place to Stay Before your Disney Cruise
Preparing for the New All-Aboard Time
Here are some tips to help you get ready for the new all-aboard time:
- Review Your Itinerary: Double-check your travel plans and make any changes needed for the new all-aboard time.
- Arrive Early: Try to get to the port well before the new 3 PM all-aboard time to avoid any last-minute rush.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on your email for any updates or extra information from Disney Cruise Line.

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando. In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.