FTTF & Port Delays

[CruiseFan3035]

So I am still debating on the FTTF and after reading about (and previously experiencing) port delays, I'm a bit concerned that if I purchased the FTTF, would it even then be worth it?!?!? I read a post about port delays until 2:00 pm. On our last cruise (this past October) we also had major delays and didn't get on our ship until 1:00-2:00.

 

Opinions anyone?

[lizardhowson]

So I am still debating on the FTTF and after reading about (and previously experiencing) port delays, I'm a bit concerned that if I purchased the FTTF, would it even then be worth it?!?!? I read a post about port delays until 2:00 pm. On our last cruise (this past October) we also had major delays and didn't get on our ship until 1:00-2:00.

 

Opinions anyone?

 

Having FTTF allows you to board after Wedding parties, Platinums and Diamonds.

If boarding is delayed, it is delayed for everyone. You still board before those who don't have FTTF.

[riffatsea]

IF you are "debating" about buying FTTF I would suggest that it is not worth it for you.

We won't sail without it these days so there's no debating for us.

[Carnival Cutie]

As someone has already posted the order in which you board doesn't change if there is a delay in boarding. The first time I purchased FTTF our ship had a delay, as a matter of fact it was late arriving at ports throughout the cruise. Sounds to me like you've already decided it's not for you. Early boarding is not the only perk, your room is guaranteed to be ready when you board and your luggage is expedited to you. In addition you have priority at tender ports and a designated number and line for Guest Services. BTW, my experience did not deter me from purchasing FTTF for subsequent cruises.

 

I hope you'll enjoy your cruise.

[Sweet Dutch Girl]

FTTF is not "early" boarding...it is "priority" boarding. Even if you get to the pier late, with FTTF it means you can jump the line and immediately go to the "priority" counter and board before everyone else who is waiting.

[RuthlessBoss]

Are you aware you just don't buy one when you decide to like an excursion.

[sarmat1]

On our last cruise (this past October) we also had major delays and didn't get on our ship until 1:00-2:00.

 

In that scenario, you'd appreciate having FTTF even more. We had this happen last year in Tampa. Boarding was delayed for everyone and we had to sit around in the terminal just waiting along with everyone else. Once the ship was cleared for boarding, however, we were among the first 50 or so passengers on board. We dropped our bags off in the cabin and then immediately went to eat lunch on an empty Lido deck. :cool:

[CruiseFan3035]

Thanks everyone. I should have clarified, I do know that FTTF is not early boarding. I just wanted to know if there was a delay for everyone if they still allowed the FTTF. I'm going to see if I can get it for our upcoming cruise. I know they're usually sold out (and fast) so here goes nothing.

[Sparky2]

Are you aware you just don't buy one when you decide to like an excursion.

 

I was gonna say "huh"? till I realized you meant they are not always available, right?

[annestis]

Is there a limit on the number of people allowed to purchase FTTF? As in, sold out and not available. I won't be able to book for next May until October and def want FTTF

[gtouch]

Is there a limit on the number of people allowed to purchase FTTF? As in, sold out and not available. I won't be able to book for next May until October and def want FTTF

 

The number varies by sailing and the number of Diamonds and Platinums. So if they calculate less Diamonds and Plats on a particular ship they will release more FTTFs. So keep checking.

[cntrydncr1]

It is usually very difficult to get FTTF....yesterday I booked a cruise for Aug. 23rd and was able to book FTTF too!! so excited...it will be my last time to purchase it as I make Platinum on my next cruise! woo hoo!!!

[near the beach]

Actually it may be better to have FTTF if there was a delay. You would board faster than many of the masses.

 

Or just get there early and get zone one.