What time do things "get started"

[Springbreak08]

This question was on another post but unfortunately, no one could answer it. What time do things "open" on the ship on the day of embarkation? I know you can get lunch - but what time does it start? And I am also wondering about the water park area and pool. Also, what time can we get on the ship? I thought I read 10:30 somehwere but now can't find it. And if the ship says it leaves at 4, does it really "pull out" (and I am sure that is not correct "ship" talk) at 4?

[caviargal]

It is rare to be able to board before noon. Some lines more than others stick to printed boarding times. If you are in a suite or have past guest status you can often board first.

 

Generally ships depart on time unless waiting for passengers that have booked their air and are delayed.

 

Pools, bars, etc will be open, but cabins may not be available upon boarding.

[RCCLismyfav1]

Most you can board around 11:30 depending on what time they get back into port.

As far as things opening up, you can get into the pool as soon as you board, eat as soon as you board, can't get into your cabin until 1 or 1:30. You can make all of your reservations to the spa and waht ever else you want to do then also.

Good luck

[paul929207]

We have boarded about noon several times. The buffet, pool and bars were already open.

 

Actual departure time will depend on late arriving guests, especially those with air purchased from the cruise line. It also depends on how tight the schedule is to the first port.

 

As mentioned above, you may not be allowed into your cabin that early. It is often 2pm or so that they finish cleaning all the cabins from the prior guests.

[poshmom]

On our first cruise we were there "johny on the spot"...right on time...10:30..12:00...whatever time they said the doors open. We hurried and waited for quite a while b/c everyone else had done the same thing. We learned after that to wait until later like around 2 or 3:00 to board. We would go to Wal-Mart, do last minute shopping, or do more exploring in whatever town the port was in...last time Galveston. By then the crowd has usually thinned out and you don't have to wait to turn in paperwork or to get in your cabin. Then you go eat a late lunch or do muster if it's about that time. Enjoy!:)

[lukes]

As stated boarding is usually around 12:00. The buffet will be open as willthe pool(s). One of the main sit down restaurants will also be open, however the staff try to direct you to the buffet.

 

3 cruises in the last 15 months. 1 was delayed approx 1 1/2 hours due to late arrivals caught in a storm flying out. (their flight was booked through the cruise line). The other 2 cruises we left within minutes (5 -10) of 4 oclock sailing.

 

Casino and stores will open once the ship is cleared into international waters. Usually the newsletter will give you the times when those things are scheduled to open. The spa will be open. A band should be playing pool side and there may even be some activities pool side ie: a sail away party.

[ladypalmtree]

We get to port about 11 and are enjoying our first adult beverage by 12ish...then we go to the buffet...the main dining room is not open! pool is...rooms not ready til one or after...you could pack your swim wear in a carry on and swim if you so desire...lpt:)

[blindrid]

I noticed on my last cruise, it's almost like they never close as the buffet done for the passengers getting off, stays open for the one's coming on. With some exceptions i.e. dining room.