Check the personal identification of every member of your cruising party carefully. Make sure everything is up-to-date and accurate, and that you have all the necessary documents required by Disney Cruise Line. When preparing for a Disney cruise that will be going outside the United States, make sure that your passport isn't close to expiring. If it is within a few months of expiring, renew it immediately, because you will need a valid passport 75 days in advance of travelling.
Pre-book your shore excursions. You can access information about the ports of call and available excursions online at the Disney Cruise Line website. Many excursions sell out quickly. Booking online insures that you can participate in the activities which best suit your tastes. You can sign up each member of your party for the particular excursions they want, and pay for the excursions in advance to reserve your place. Preplanning excursions helps build excitement for the trip.
Sign up for onboard childcare. Some Disney cruises allow guests to arrange childcare on board as far as 100 days in advance of sailing. Doing this will give you peace of mind, knowing that there will be responsible childcare providers when you and the other adults in your party need some time away from the kids.
Consult with your physician regarding anti-sea sickness pills. If you or any member of your party has never been on a cruise ship before, sea sickness is a possibility. Nausea caused by sea sickness can be a problem for even experienced travellers in rougher waters. Feeling the movement of the sea on a Disney cruise is rare due to the size of the ships. Regardless, since you cannot get off the ship while it's sailing, anti-sea sickness pills are a good thing to have in case of nausea.
Book your flights so that you arrive at your cruise departure point a day or so before the ship sails. Depending on how you booked your Disney cruise, flights may be included in your travel package. If flights are not included, book a flight that arrives at least a day or two before your ship boards. That way, cancelled or delayed flights won't cause you to miss your ship. Consider time requirements when booking your return flight, as well. Remember that you have to disembark, get from port to the airport and go through security. Leave enough time so that you do not have to rush.
Make a packing list based on your cruise itinerary and shore excursions. Remember to bring lots of sunscreen because the light reflecting off the water while on board the ship increases UV exposure. Also consider packing a light jacket or sweater for evenings as Disney cruises can get chilly at night, particularly when the ship is moving.
Finalize your Disney cruise by checking in online. Print out two copies of your final cruise documents. Keep these documents in a safe place and make sure to carry them with you. Having all your travel documents organized and handy will make boarding your flights and your cruise faster and easier.
