Possible to catch a 10:56 a.m. flight from Miami?

[Disneycruisers]

We've sailed from Miami before in the early afternoon. From what I remember (it's been a few years) the airport is very close to the port. I know on DCL, we have to allow a LOT of time to arrive back at MCO.

 

We're sailing NCL for the first time from Miami, July 2015. Is there a self-disembark option?

[tarps14]

There is a self debarkation process and they are usually the first group let off. You'll just have to carry your own luggage (i.e. do not put it out the night before). As for the flight time, the vast majority on here will tell you don't do it that early. Personal experience though is we have almost always had a flight out of Miami before noon and have yet to miss one (always get a cab though, never the cruise shuttle). The earliest ever was 10:45a however, it was entirely too stressful so we now try to get 11a-12p. The most difficult thing to time at MIA is security. If there are a large number of ships in port that day (I would say 4 or more), then security can be a nightmare. Also, MIA is not the easiest airport to get around as it usually requires some long walks between check-in and gates.

Edited October 12, 2014 by tarps14

[garycarla]

If you self disembark

and

just grab a cab - NOT a transfer

 

You should be fine - I would say a very high percentage of the time. Folks talk often of being at the airport around 9am. A bit tight timing for some, but if ou know what you are doing, you will make it.

 

There are occasional delays due to feds, but not usually.

 

I did not see what ports your are coming from and ship.

[don't-use-real-name]

Check with the rules of the airline you are flying on.

What time do you have to present yourself at the gate for boarding ?

Is the TSA security point a central one servicing all carriers or an individual

one specific for only those carriers on a concourse - BIG TROUBLE if it is like

Chicago Midway airport ? Yes I know NO Cruises port at Chicago - BUT !

What time do you have to check-in at the baggage check position to make

sure your checked baggage gets on the flight with you.

Most airlines have a specific cut off time ?

Traveling First or Business class; Priority affinity with an airline or TSA Pre Check

- Global Entry or similar program increases your odds considerably

at making those departures.

Yes a taxi or shuttle with minimum number of riders is better than the charter

motor coach contracted by the cruise line.

I think I have read somewhere about NCL not recommending flights before

such and such time 1300 hrs (1PM) if the ship docks at 0800 (8AM).

If the ship docks earlier and gets CB clearance all that much the better.

Remember to factor in morning hour rush traffic if arriving Monday-Friday.

The airport could be oh so close and then an accident throws a monkey wrench

in the mix !

AND beware tight scheduling on one of those non-refundable/changeable fares

the least little thing could cost you more than you think.

Pray that the airline does make you pay the piper if you miss your flight !

 

So YES it is possible to make that 10:56 AM flight - just have all your ducks in row

but also have an alternate plan !

Edited October 12, 2014 by don't-use-real-name
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[tarps14]

You've stated that you have flown into and out of MIA before so many of the issues you are probably already aware of. We seem to always fly Delta as it is based out of Atlanta and that is our home airport. The security at the terminal Delta uses at MIA is always crazy busy. A different airline may bring a different experience. As for the cruise line, NCL is no different than the others in timing of arrival, debarkation, etc. Having also sailed DCL (out of Canaveral, not Miami), they handle these processes better than most and if you have done it successfully in the past, then only you can decide if it is worth it. To us, it is. To others, not so much.

[Disneycruisers]

Thank you for all of the replies.:)

 

We'll be disembarking the Getaway.

I'm exhausted from the stress, already, from reading what possible things could go wrong. And, I agree, LOL.

 

We'll catch the 1pm flight.

 

Thanks again!

Edited October 12, 2014 by Disneycruisers

[garycarla]

Thank you for all of the replies.:)

 

I'm exhausted from the stress, already, from reading what possible things could go wrong. And, I agree, LOL.

 

We'll catch the 1pm flight.

 

Thanks again!

 

Oh... if you have a 1:00 option, that would be my choice. Worse case is you have lunch and a drinkie poo at the airport. And not stress.

 

Often the early flights are vs. a 4pm or later option, then the early makes more sense.

[darkprayer]

Thank you for all of the replies.:)

 

Better safe then sorry! I wish we had the option to fly out around that time. All the non-stops got changed and our only safe option is 9:15 at night. Very sad!

 

 

Have a safe trip home!

[tarps14]

Much less stressful option!