If you are new to cruising, embarkation day is just a fancy way of the first day of the cruise. This day is probably one of the best days for many cruisers since it is their first vacation day. That said, embarkation day can also be one of the most stressful and tiring days since there are many things you need to do to ensure that the embarkation process goes smoothly.
Embarkation day is also the turnaround day for the crew, with the cruisers from the previous cruise departing in the morning. Due to this, the day is very busy for the passengers and staff. Here are some tips to ensure that you have a hassle-free embarkation day.
Things To Do Before The Embarkation Day
You are required to do a few things before traveling to the ports. Your cruise line of choice will let you know of all the requirements before the departure date. Ensure that you follow all the instructions to ensure a pleasant stay on the ship.
If you encounter any problems, make sure you contact the cruise line before the day of travel. It is essential to ensure that you do not wait until you get to the port to deal with any problem. In most cases, there is usually more time to resolve any issues when you know in advance.
Download The Cruise Line App
Most cruise lines have apps that make the onboard experience more personal and efficient. You will be asked to register on the app before you travel and use the app to book your trip. The app will allow you to upload your photograph for identification, complete the required health declarations, and book activities and restaurants onboard.
It is best if you download the app early to familiarize yourself with it before you head to the port. If you leave it for the final day, you might have issues with the signal at the port. It is also essential to check for any updates before the departure day.
Print All the Essential Documents
While you might be boarding the cruise ship using technology, printing all your travel documents in case, there are hitches with the signal to display the documents while boarding will be great. If you have a long journey to the port, your phone battery might run out, leaving you stranded. You might not need to use the documents, but it wouldn’t hurt to have them as an option.
Plan Your Journey To The Terminal
Before you travel to the terminal, make sure you know where you are going and leave enough room to get there. This might be the most obvious thing you need to do, but the embarkation day might be hectic, and you do not need to be stressing about the route you will take.
Confirm the route beforehand and pre-book your parking if you are driving to the port. If you are traveling by public transport, confirm the times for the buses and trains and ensure you include some time for the potential delay. Make sure you book early to ensure that you do not miss the ship.
Pack A Carry-On For All Your Essentials
Once you drop your luggage at the terminal, you will not see it until your cabin suite arrives a few hours later. This process does not usually take long, but there is no guarantee about when your luggage will appear. It is worth thinking about how you want to spend your first few hours onboard and pack a carry-on bag.
Your bag should have all your travel documents, medication, and valuable items you are taking for the trips, such as a camera and other electronic devices. You might want to bring your swim or gym wear if you need to use onboard facilities such as the gym and swimming pool.
Book For You Parking Early
It is essential to ensure that your parking is safe and secure when going on your cruise. If you plan to drive to Miami to catch the cruise, you might consider saving and securing parking for your car. We recommend booking your parking space early to avoid inconveniences due to the upcoming spring break.
At Safe Cruise Parking, we ensure your vehicle is safe while you are on vacation. You can book your slot early to save some cash. Safe Cruise Parking is located at 189 NE Second Street, Miami, FL 33132. Check out some directions to get to our lot below.
189 NE 2ND STREET
