Can I get on a cruise early?

Set Sail Sooner: Why Arriving Early for Your Cruise is a Smart Move

Planning a cruise is exciting! You’ve booked your cabin, meticulously chosen your excursions, and are counting down the days until you set sail. But amidst all the planning, have you considered your arrival time at the port? Many cruisers simply show up at their designated boarding time, but a little secret weapon to maximize your vacation is arriving early.

While the idea of rushing to the port might seem counterintuitive to a relaxing getaway, the benefits of early arrival can significantly enhance your overall cruise experience and squeeze every last drop of value from your hard-earned vacation dollars.

Why Early Birds Catch the Onboard Worm (or Buffet):

• Beat the Rush: Cruise terminals, especially on embarkation day, can be chaotic. Arriving early often allows you to bypass the longest lines and navigate security and check-in more efficiently. Think shorter wait times and less stress!

• Onboard Oasis Sooner: Once you’re checked in, you’re often free to board the ship, even before your officially designated time. This translates to extra hours of onboard enjoyment! Imagine claiming your prime pool-side lounge chair, exploring the ship without the crowds, and grabbing a delicious lunch before the majority of passengers even arrive.

• Familiarize Yourself with Your Floating Home: A cruise ship is like a mini-city at sea. Arriving early gives you the perfect opportunity to get your bearings, find your cabin, locate key areas like the dining rooms and entertainment venues, and get a head start on navigating the ship’s layout.

• Savor the Onboard Amenities (for Free!): Remember, you’ve already paid for your cruise! Arriving early allows you to capitalize on the ship’s amenities, such as pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, and even select bars, without incurring any additional cost. You’re essentially getting extra “cruise time” for free!

• Unpack and Unwind: Instead of rushing to unpack after boarding with everyone else, arriving early gives you a chance to settle into your cabin at your own pace, unpack your bags, and get comfortable before the masses arrive.

Important Considerations:

• Check-In Time Availability: While early arrival is generally encouraged, it’s always wise to check with your cruise line or travel agent about the earliest check-in time they allow. Some cruise lines might have specific time windows for boarding.
• Port Parking and Traffic: Factor in potential traffic delays and parking availability at the port. Arriving extra early can help you avoid stressful situations before you even set foot on the ship.
• Flexibility is Key: Be prepared for potential waits, even if you arrive early. While the goal is to beat the crowds, unexpected delays can happen. Pack a book, download some entertainment on your phone, and maintain a positive attitude.

By arriving early for your cruise, you’re not just getting on the ship sooner, you’re proactively setting the stage for a more relaxed, enjoyable, and value-packed vacation. So, don’t wait for your designated time – get on board the early arrival trend and maximize your cruise experience! You’ll be thanking yourself as you sip a cocktail by the pool while others are still waiting in line.

#Cruisecheckin #Earlyaccess #Shipboarding