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GETTING TO THE SHIP |
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I'm flying to join the ship on the day of embarkation. What if my flight's late? |
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| First of all, be sure to allow enough time for minor delays. It's better to get to the ship relaxed than all nervous about getting to it on time. If problems develop, first tell the airline representatives that you are a cruise passenger. They will often find you another flight, even if on another carrier, to help you get to the ship on time. Then make sure you let the cruise line know that your flight has been delayed by using the phone number usually supplied with your cruise documents. If it looks like there are other cruise passengers are on the same flight, notify the cruise line of that as well. If your air was purchased from the cruise line, advise them during this phone call. They may have more leverage in finding you alternate transportation if they booked your flight. If the delay is due to weather, there is probably the same problem with all the airlines, but sometimes you can be re-routed through another city. The cruise line will continue to track your situation and help if at all possible. |
| If you miss the ship due to an avoidable delay by the airline, not weather or other delays beyond their control, the airline will sometimes pay the costs for getting you to the next port of call. |
| It is best to protect your investment with travel insurance that covers flight delays and lost baggage. Ask your Cruise and Resort agent about the best coverage for your situation. |
| If at all possible, avoid the worries and hassles and arrive at your embarkation point a day early. It is almost always worth the small additional cost. Have a relaxing night in a hotel and begin your vacation on the right note! |
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How do I get from the airport to my ship? |
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| If you have purchased your air from the cruise line, your transfers may be included. Some cruise lines charge extra for the transfers even if they have arranged your air. If you have transfers as part of your package, you will be met in the baggage claim area when you arrive at the airport, usually by people holding huge signs with your cruise line or ship name printed on them. Sometimes your luggage will be transferred directly to the ship, and other times you will need to identify the luggage at the baggage carousel and make sure they are put on the motorcoach. Specific instructions are part of your cruise document package. If in doubt, don't hesitate to ask the representative in the baggage claim area. |
| If you have not purchased the transfers from the cruise line, you are responsible for getting you and your luggage to the pier. If taking a taxi, don't forget your luggage in the trunk. (This happens more often than you could imagine!) When you get to the port, there will be plenty of porters there to assist you with your luggage. Gratuities are always up to you, but they are generally expected to be similar to the gratuities you might give to an airport porter -- $0.75 to $1.00 per bag. While the gratuities aren't required, it's a good investment to make sure you don't see your suitcases being loaded on a freighter bound for the far-east. |
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What about parking at the pier? |
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| There are public parking lots available at nearly all major piers. Be prepared to pay a fee of between $10 and $14 per day at some facilities. Be sure to write down detailed information about where you parked your car. After a wonderful week-long cruise, if is often difficult to remember specifics like the parking level and location. Trust us; you don't want to be searching for your car while your family is waiting for you on the pier with all the luggage. |
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Okay, we're there! When can we board the ship? |
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| Embarkation usually begins three to four hours prior to the scheduled departure time. The gangway is removed approximately a half-hour prior to departure. Two things to remember: 1. If you want to board even earlier, check the ship's policy. They might allow you to board the ship and enjoy the public areas, although your stateroom may not yet be fully cleaned and ready for your occupancy. 2. Don't cut it too close. It's not worth taking a chance of missing the ship. It always takes a little time to check-in and go through security. Allow the extra time so you can relax and begin enjoying your vacation. |
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