How early should you arrive for a cruise?

You can show up at any time during that window. Generally speaking, the busiest time for boarding is between noon (when most cruise lines' regular check-in begins) and 2 p.m., so we recommend arriving just before or after that window.


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

Avoid arriving at peak boarding time

We recommend getting to the terminal either early, before the rush, or late (after 2 p.m.), when most people are already onboard. You might still have a little wait, but it won't be anything compared to peak boarding time.

Should I check-in early for my cruise?

Arrive to the pier early

By arriving early, you will beat the big crowds that descend upon the cruise terminal later in the day, and you also get the added benefit of having some extra time onboard the ship.


Do cruise ships wait if you are late?

First of all, the ship will NOT wait for you if you are late. However, if you are on a sponsored excursion booked through the cruise line and are late coming back, the ship will wait. Excursions booked through a 3rd party normally always allow for extra time so you won't miss the ship.

Can you bring a 12 pack of beer on a Carnival Cruise?

Bringing Liquor and Beverages On Board - Embarkation

A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 12-ounces/354-ml each or less, per person.


15 FIRST DAY CRUISE TIPS - What You MUST DO Immediately After Boarding



Do you tip waiters on Carnival Cruise?

Generally speaking, mainstream, U.S.-based cruise lines automatically add gratuities of about $14 to $15 per person, per day, to your onboard bill. These tips are divided among the dining staff (waiters, assistant waiters and head waiters) and housekeeping staff (such as cabin attendants).

Is a cruise cold at night?

And while you might be cruising the Caribbean or some other tropical locale, ship decks can get pretty cold at night when the sun goes down and the wind picks up, so it may be smart to bring a shawl or light jacket.

Do you have to dress up every night on a cruise?

Absolutely not. Your cruise is your own. If you don't want to dress up for the evening, then you certainly don't have to do so. Many people choose to keep it casual.


Do you have to wear a mask all the time on a cruise ship?

Passengers are encouraged to wear them during embarkation and disembarkation, as well as in areas where there are large crowds. Masks may also be required when ashore, per local guidelines. Cruisers must wear masks in the onboard medical center.

Do you eat the first day on a cruise?

Yes, there will food provided for lunch once you get onboard the ship. Depending on which ship you are boarding, the options can vary, but in general the Windjammer buffet will be your go-to spot for an embarkation day lunch. What is this? Other good alternatives include Cafe Promenade or Park Cafe.

Do you need to bring toothpaste on a cruise?

(Here are a few more things you should never buy on a cruise ship or in port.) Beyond hair products, you'll want to bring toothpaste, a toothbrush, and floss; glasses, contacts and contact lens solutions; a razor and shaving cream; makeup and moisturizer.


Is there a TSA PreCheck for cruises?

Also, note that there is no cruise equivalent of PreCheck, so you cannot skip any lines when boarding your cruise ship at the start of your vacation.

What happens if you miss your boarding time on a cruise?

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 long does boarding a cruise 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.


Can I wear jeans to dinner on a cruise?

On formal nights, proper attire includes tuxedos, suits or slacks (jackets required) for men and evening gowns, cocktail dresses or dressy pantsuits for women. Jeans are welcome in all dining venues during the day, but they're not appropriate in any public venues for dinner or cocktail hour.

Can you bring toilet paper on a cruise?

The toilet paper is thin.

If you have a sensitive tush, you can always bring your own paper (just don't flush it as it may not work well with the ship's waste system).

Can you bring food to your room on a cruise?

The good news is that yes, you can bring food and snacks on a cruise — including on major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian.


What months should you avoid cruises?

When is hurricane season for cruises? Hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June 1 to November 30. The peak of hurricane season occurs between mid-August and early November.

Should I bring warm clothes on a cruise?

Once the sun goes down, the temperature can get a little chilly while on a cruise ship. Avoid getting a case of the shivers and bring along a lightweight jacket or sweater to keep you warm on those cooler nights.

What should I wear on my first night cruise?

"Evening chic" nights encourage passengers to go all out with tuxes and evening gowns. However, most men choose slacks with collared or button-down shirts and jackets, sans ties. Most women choose slacks and nice blouses, sundresses or party dresses.


Do you tip at cruise buffet?

The vast majority of passengers are charged these tips, no matter if they are young, old, have special requests, eat in the main dining room, or only hit the buffet. That said, some cruise lines make exceptions for small kids. For example, Carnival does not charge tips for kids under two years old.

What is the nicest cruise line in the world?

The best cruise lines in the world 2022
  • Norwegian Cruise Line. Score 78.98. MSC Cruises. ...
  • Royal Caribbean International. Score 72.49. Carnival Cruise Line. ...
  • P&O Cruises. Score 76.61. Azamara. ...
  • Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Score 76.63. Star Clippers. ...
  • Grand Circle Cruise Line. Score 89.47. ...
  • Atlas Ocean Voyages. Score 88.78.


Can you tip with cash on a cruise?

Pay upfront, but still bring cash: What travelers need to know about tipping on a cruise. Some travelers new to cruising may be taken aback by how gratuities can add up. Guests can pre-pay gratuities before their sailing. Passengers can also bring cash to reward exceptional service.


Can I bring my own bottled water on a Carnival cruise?

Guests are prohibited from bringing water, sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages onboard that are packaged in bottles.