Another Newbie Question

[miss_rach]

Guys,

I live in Tampa and we are departing out of Tampa. The ticket says BOARDING TIME 1PM - 3PM. We'd like to get checked in early and on-board early. What time should we show up at the port? I'm only 20 minutes away from the port but would like to get everything done as early as possible.

 

Cheers!

[Shmoo here]

Guys,

I live in Tampa and we are departing out of Tampa. The ticket says BOARDING TIME 1PM - 3PM. We'd like to get checked in early and on-board early. What time should we show up at the port? I'm only 20 minutes away from the port but would like to get everything done as early as possible.

 

Cheers!

 

This question is probably best asked on your specific cruiseline board.

[paul929207]

Which cruise line? If Carnival, they now have a program where you can pay extra to be the first on board. This means that those not paying are delayed enough to encourage purchase.

[leaveitallbehind]

As previously mentioned there may be differences between the cruise lines. Our experience with RCI typically has us arriving at the terminal (any departure port) between 10:30 - 11:00 AM and usually on board no later than 11:30 AM.

[miss_rach]

Seeing we leave tomorrow its probably to late to purchase any "early boarding ticket" so recommendation on what time to show up at the port? can we check luggage in and go to Hooters? Or is it check luggage in and then wait in some line to board? Again, have never done this......

[leaveitallbehind]

Seeing we leave tomorrow its probably to late to purchase any "early boarding ticket" so recommendation on what time to show up at the port? can we check luggage in and go to Hooters? Or is it check luggage in and then wait in some line to board? Again, have never done this......

 

It would be helpful if you tell us which cruise line / ship. You refer to an early boarding ticket - Carnival?

[taglovestocruise]

Get there early and you can wait in line with 2000 of your closet friends. Also check the boards for your ship to see what lunch options are open for embarkation. The buffet is always full as other spots are far less crowed.

[taglovestocruise]

Sorry about the spelling eror

[miss_rach]

Cruise Line: Carnival

Ship: Paradise

[leaveitallbehind]

Hopefully someone with Carnival experience will answer you in time.

 

Enjoy your cruise.

[SnowDiamonds]

I'm always so excited to cruise I don't care if I have to wait. I would show up at 12noon to get in line. They may let you on early, who knows. I have only had to wait once. They have always let me on early. If you have to wait, read a book or write in a journal or dream about the adventures you will have! Meet new people and start friendships with your cruisemates. :)

[98Charlie]

I always figure that I can wait in my hotel room or wait at the pier. I'd rather get on early so I try to be at the dock around 11:00. Last cruise went really well and I was standing on the balcony of my cabin just after 10:30.

 

OTOH one cruise the morning disembarkation went slow and there was a medical emergency right after they started the boarding for us. Waited in line for a couple of hours. (Ship happens!)

 

Charlie

 

 

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[Keith1010]

I would arrive at 11:00 AM and wait for check in to begin.

 

Keith

[Krazy Kruizers]

I have friends who sail on Carnival.

On their last few cruises they had to buy the "Fun" pass in order to get on the ship early.

Since you are sailing today and only live a short distance away, it is too late to buy the pass.

Just arrive by Noon.

[KirkNC]

Boarding should begin around 11:30 so if you get there around 11:00 you should be on by noon.