This was our first Disney cruise (I travelled with my wife and 10 year old daughter). We spent 2 nights at a Disney resort prior to embarking at Port Canaveral, so had high expectations. We were not disappointed.

We we dropped off at the terminal at 10.30am. Porters were quick to take our bags and we joined a line to get inside. The line moved quickly and soon we had negotiated port security and baggage check and ascended the escalator where we were directed to the check in line. We were photographed and given our "keys to the world" card that would be both a room key and charge card for the duration of our cruise. We also received a boarding card. To pass the time until our boarding number was called we viewed the large cut away model of the Disney Dream and waited in a line for a character photo (Goofy, then later Mickey). Upon boarding you can stop for a professional photo ($20 from Shutters on board) or proceed directly into the atrium of the ship. Your party's name is announced and you walk past a line of appalling crew members all smartly dressed in whites.

Staterooms are generally not available until after 1.30pm so you must keep all carry on luggage with you are you are directed to lunch (the buffet at Cabanas on level 11). We easily found a windowside table with a view of the port and enjoyed a great lunch. There is sometihing to everyone. The international staff were welcoming and friendly. You can help yourself at the drink stations or have a cocktail to your on board account (the drink of the day is served in a 22oz plastic DCL hurricane glass that you pay approx $10 for. Subsequent refills are around $5, the cost of the 16oz glasses). Read more