Online check-in

The anticipation for your cruise vacation is building, and before you even set foot on the ship, a crucial step awaits: online check-in. Typically completed in the weeks leading up to your sail date, this process is designed to streamline your embarkation day and get you onboard your floating resort as smoothly as possible. During your online check-in, you’ll be prompted to select a port arrival time. This designated slot is the specific time window during which you should arrive at the cruise terminal – it’s important not to arrive significantly before your scheduled time, as this can lead to unnecessary waiting and congestion. The online check-in will also guide you through a series of essential questions to ensure all your information is accurate and complete. You’ll likely be asked for your personal details (name, date of birth, citizenship), contact information, emergency contact details, and your travel documentation information (passport or Real ID details). You also need to provide payment information for your onboard account. Completing this online process thoroughly will save you valuable time at the terminal and ensure a quicker start to your vacation.

Once your online check-in is complete and your arrival time is set, the next step is arriving at the bustling cruise port terminal on embarkation day.

Embarkation day

To ensure a seamless experience, have your boarding pass printed and readily accessible, along with your luggage tags securely attached to all your bags. Keep your government-issued photo ID on your person at all times. As you enter the terminal area, you’ll typically see porters stationed to collect checked luggage. This is where you can leave your tagged bags, knowing they will be delivered directly to your stateroom later in the day. It’s customary and greatly appreciated to tip these porters approximately $1 per bag for their service.

Inside the terminal

Once inside the terminal building, you’ll proceed through security screening, similar to airport security. Your carry-on bags will be scanned, and you’ll walk through a metal detector to ensure no prohibited items make their way onboard. You will also be lined up to be sniffed by police drug detection K9s.

Following security, you’ll be directed to the check-in agents. Here, they will verify your documentation, finalize any necessary paperwork. After completing the check-in process, you’ll be directed to a waiting area where you’ll await the announcement of your boarding group. The order of boarding typically follows a priority system: Back to Back cruisers (those immediately sailing on another cruise), wedding parties, Diamond level cruisers, Platinum level cruisers, suite guests, guests who have purchased Faster to the Fun, and finally, general boarding will commence.

Getting on the ship

The moment you hear your boarding group called and step onto the ship, a wave of vacation excitement will wash over you – you made it, you’re on vacation! As you walk along the gangway and onto the deck, be prepared for friendly crew members often offering welcome drinks. It’s important to note that these initial welcome drinks are typically not included in any beverage packages like Cheers!, so be mindful if you choose to indulge.

First things first

One of the first and most important tasks upon boarding is to head directly to your designated muster station to complete the mandatory safety briefing. This is a crucial safety procedure that familiarizes you with emergency procedures and your assigned meeting location in case of an emergency.

What now?

Once your muster drill is complete, you’re officially free to start exploring your floating home! A popular first stop for many is the Lido deck, the main hub for casual dining, often featuring a buffet and various quick-service eateries. Grab some lunch, soak in the atmosphere, and start your culinary journey. Take some time to explore the different decks and public areas of the ship, getting acquainted with its layout. As the afternoon progresses, the energy will build towards the sail away party, a festive event on the upper decks as the ship departs port. Don’t forget to put your phone in airplane mode to avoid hefty international roaming charges and to fully immerse yourself in your cruise experience. The adventure has begun!

#CruiseEmbarkation #VacationStart #BonVoyage