We LOVE getting there early! The excitement of it all is so much fun for us. You get to meet lots of people before you even board. The terminal is cool to hang out in and people watch, if you don't want to explore or participate in anything. Getting there early has always yielded us a low group number, 2 or 3 usually, so we are on board quick. We are pros now, going for #7 and we have our backpacks ready with swim clothes and everything we need before rooms open at 1:30. We hit lunch first, lines are short and easy at that time and all the best seats are available, then straight to the pool where again, prime seats are available. You will have a hard time getting that the rest of the cruise unless you head out early. We change in the bathrooms, Disney keeps them spotless! And we are usually good to go until the rooms open. We've had tons of pool time, food and booze, so we are enjoying our vacation immediately. Then you can get to your room, clean up and change, and still have time to explore the ship, while people are still just boarding the ship. I couldn't imagine getting there late. I would feel we lost a day.