Disney Cruise Line ground transportation from Hyatt Regency
This will be my first cruise where I am not parking at the port. I have arranged Disney's Ground Transfer from the Hyatt Regency to Port Canaveral.
I understand if you use the ground transfer from MCO's terminal, you check in and present all cruise documentation at the buses while still in the terminal so that when you arrive at the cruise terminal you're checked in.
Taking the transfer from the hotel, I am not able to determine if this is the same process. DCL says you will not be checked in. Some other forums are split on if you get checked in at the Disney desk in the hotel lobby.
Has anyone done this recently, and if so what was your experience using the Hyatt as the pick up point?
Thank you!
When using Disney Cruise Line’s Ground Transfer from a hotel such as the Hyatt Regency Orlando to Port Canaveral, the check-in process differs slightly from using the MCO airport pick-up option. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on recent guest experiences:
Unlike the airport transfers, you do not check in for your cruise at the hotel. Disney Cast Members will meet you at the designated hotel pick-up area at the scheduled time. You need to have all your cruise documentation ready, including your boarding passes, photo ID, and any necessary travel documents. The check-in process at the hotel is not handled by DCL; it is completed on arrival at Port Canaveral.
Here’s what generally happens:
- A Disney Cast Member will greet you at the Hyatt Regency lobby or designated shuttle area at your scheduled pick-up time.
- You and your luggage are loaded onto the Disney motorcoach along with other guests using the same transfer service.
- The motorcoach departs for Port Canaveral. The ride typically takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Upon arrival at Port Canaveral, you proceed directly to the cruise terminal. Here, Disney staff will assist with your check-in, luggage tagging, and boarding. This is when you complete the formal cruise check-in process.
Some additional tips and considerations:
- Plan to arrive at the hotel shuttle point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
- Keep your cruise documents, ID, and any medications or valuables with you in a carry-on bag, as checked luggage is handled by Disney staff.
- There is no express hotel check-in; you will be processed only once you arrive at the terminal.
- The service is convenient and stress-free, but timing is key—ensure you allow extra travel time if you have tight connections or early boarding slots.
In summary, the Hyatt Regency pick-up is straightforward but does not involve checking in for the cruise at the hotel. Your cruise check-in will be completed at Port Canaveral upon arrival, which is standard for all hotel ground transfers.
