As a cruise-addict, I will share with you that organization for a cruise is crucial. You don’t just book a cruise and go (unless of course, you are a tenured cruiser) because you need to have things in order so that the day of departure will move along with ease.
So many first time cruisers head to the port without any idea of what to expect, in fact, most don’t know that the party starts the minute you are onboard. Today, I will share with you 6 preparation tips for cruise departure day so you can lavishly live travel on the high seas out loud.
6 Preparation Tips For Cruise Departure Day
If you were heading to a beach rental, chances are you would have a checklist of things to do, and things to not forget. Cruising is just the same. Let’s take a peek. It’s very important to be organized when it comes to your cruise departure day. Failure to get ahead of your cruise can mean the difference between boarding the ship and embarking on a fun-filled cruise or being left behind. Keep the following tips in mind, as you prepare to take your trip.
Review All Requirements
Every cruise line is different. They have specific requirements regarding issues such as the minimum age to sail, traveling with children, pregnancy, etc. It’s the responsibility every individual to make sure he or she meets these requirements. If not, boarding will be denied. Unfortunately, sneaking onto the ship is not a viable alternative.
Invest in Travel Insurance
Although it isn’t a set-in-stone requirement, it’s wise to purchase travel insurance when you book your cruise. You never know when an emergency will arise. Without travel insurance, you risk losing everything you paid for the trip (except government taxes) if you can’t sail.
For example, if you get into an automobile accident while driving to the port, the money you paid for your reservation won’t be refunded unless you have insurance. You may not think this happens. Unfortunately, it’s a real-life scenario.
Gather Necessary Documents
You won’t be able to board the ship unless you have the necessary documentation. This includes a government-issued drivers licenses or photo ID, a passport (in certain cases), your printed stateroom eDocs and your luggage tags. Birth certificates are required when you’re traveling with children.
Pack a Carry-On Bag
It’s always a wise idea to pack a small carry-on bag, which can be utilized until your luggage is delivered to your stateroom. This is an idea of what to pack:
- a change of clothes
- a light jacket
- any prescription medication
- swimwear
- sunscreen
- camera
You never know if and when things may be delayed. And as the old adage goes, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Leave Contraband at Home
The last thing you probably want to is get busted by ship security for attempting to bring contraband on the ship. This includes things like alcohol, drugs and beverages in glass bottles. Some cruise lines have restrictions against items such as irons and curling irons as well.
Don’t Be Late
If you’re driving yourself to the port, allow yourself plenty of time to get there. In addition, make sure you know HOW to get there. The ship won’t wait for you, under any circumstances, if you’re late. If you miss boarding, your only alternative is to pay to fly to the first port destination and that can be very expensive.
Armed with these tips, chances are your cruise departure day will go smoothly and you’ll be sipping on a fruity drink and enjoying the buffet before you even leave port. Remember, if you’re generally a disorganized person, departure day is the time to strive for improvement. You can do it!
The 6 Preparation Tips For Cruise Departure Day are easy to follow. Bookmark this page, learn how to pick the best cruise line for your family, pack those excursion bags and ‘Bon Voyage!” Lavishly live your cruise out loud because you are organized!