Is it better to check-in on a cruise early or late?


Is it better to check-in on a cruise early or late? Quicker boarding process Arriving at the terminal early means that you will not have to deal with the later crowds. While the check-in process is pretty straightforward, there are a couple steps that you have to take prior to being let on the ship, including checking your travel documents and going through security.


What does early check-in do?

As an EarlyBird Check-In Customer, you'll have the benefit of an earlier boarding position, a better opportunity to select your preferred available seat, and earlier access to overhead bin storage for your carryon luggage. How much does EarlyBird Check-In cost?


Who boards first on Carnival cruise?

A Few Facts on Faster to the Fun Once at the pier, when boarding begins, we will board VIFP Club Diamond guests first, followed by VIFP Club Platinum guests, followed by guests traveling in suites and then Faster to the Fun guests.


What time do cruise ships usually start boarding?

Cruise ships will usually begin boarding approximately four hours before the scheduled departure time, typically around 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. If you'd like to arrive at that time, go right ahead!


How long do cruise check ins take?

Depending on the cruise line, size of the ship/number of passengers, and how efficient the boarding process is, embarkation can range from 30 minutes to a few hours.


How early can you check-in for a Royal Caribbean cruise?

You can check in via the app beginning about 45 days in advance up to the morning of your sailing. Checking in via the app allows all guests in your party to board more quickly on your sailing day.


What documents do you need to check-in on a cruise?

Necessary cruise documents include acceptable official forms of identification, proof of your booking number and boarding information, and confirmation that you aren't ill. You must present these upon arrival at the port.


Can I go on a cruise without a passport?

The good news is that you can cruise to quite a few popular destinations without a passport, including Alaska, the Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Canada, and New England.


What happens if I miss my cruise check-in time?

Guests who miss their cruise due to travel delays can contact the Emergency Travel Team (ETT) to discuss their options going forward. In specific situations, when the guest has the proper documentation, it is possible to join the cruise at the next port of call, but all options must be discussed with ETT.


How much luggage can you take on a cruise?

Generally, cruise lines recommend you bring two pieces of luggage per person at a maximum weight of 50 pounds as well as a small carry-on bag, with dimensions not exceeding 22 x 14 x 9.


How long does it take to get off a cruise ship and get your luggage?

From start to finish, the process usually takes about two to three hours, depending on the size of the ship.


Do I need to print my set sail pass?

Your must bring your SetSail pass to the port to enter to cruise terminal. Please make sure you print your SetSail pass after you check-in. You must print your SetSail pass 3 days prior to the sail date. We recommend to download the Royal Caribbean App to display your SetSail Pass on your phone (no need to print).


How early should you arrive for a cruise Carnival?

Please note that all guests should arrive 60 minutes before their check-in-time in order to guarantee a smooth procedure. Please enter the data of your passport online no later than 24 hours before departure.


Should you board cruise early or late?

The best time to board a cruise ship is obviously when there are few lines and short waits. The trick is knowing when that will be. Unfortunately, it can vary from port to port and ship to ship, but I prefer arriving in the early afternoon, usually around 1 or 2 p.m.


How do you get early boarding on a cruise?

Here's our list of 15 ways you can board your cruise ship faster.
  1. Book a suite. ...
  2. Earn loyalty status. ...
  3. Pay for exclusive access. ...
  4. Fly in the day before. ...
  5. Stay close to the port. ...
  6. Leave luggage with porters. ...
  7. Have luggage tags ready to go. ...
  8. Book a private transfer.


Are cruise rooms ready when you board?

It's important to note that if you board very early, your cabin may not be ready yet as they're probably still cleaning from the last cruise. Once settled in, or if your cabin isn't ready, it's time to explore the ship and check out everything there will be to do throughout your trip.


Can you go straight to your room on a cruise?

Many first-time cruisers don't realize that they won't be able to go directly to their staterooms upon boarding. Pass the time while you wait for your room to be ready and for the ship to set sail by enjoying lunch on the Lido Deck of the ship. This is a great way to make sure you aren't starving by dinner time!


What months to avoid for cruising the Caribbean?

Caribbean Seasons
Rain is more frequent in the wet season, but the temperatures are warmer. Wet season and dry season are both good times to cruise the Caribbean. The worst time for a Caribbean cruise weather-wise is August to September, as it is peak hurricane season.