Travel Tip Tuesday Embarkation Day

Travel Tip Tuesday Embarkation Day
​By Mike Miller

​Embarkation day can be exciting and sometimes a little stressful. So I have provided some tips to make that day easier.

​​1
DOCUMENTS

Make sure you have all of your documents in one place. This includes your passport, ID and boarding pass. You may need to present this a couple of times including entering the port so having these handy will be helpful. It will also prevent you from mistakenly placing them in your checked luggage. The last thing you want to do is start your cruise chasing down a porter

2
CARRY ON BAG

Pack your carry on with essentials you might want prior to getting your check luggage. This might include, a swim suite, change of clothes, items to freshen up with and medications. Remember, you might not get your luggage until after you depart so be prepared. Now for those flying in, you might need to repack your carry on since it might be different for your cruise than it was carrying onto the plane. And don’t take too much. Your cabin may not be ready when you board so you will need to keep what ever you carry on with you. 

3
Luggage Tags

If you plan on checking luggage, make sure the luggage tags provided by the cruise line are secured well to your luggage. These have the ship, sailing date, your name and cabin number so they can be delivered promptly to your cabin. I also recommend attaching one of these tags to your carry on just in case you leave it somewhere. 

4
EXPLORE

Either before or after you grab lunch, explore the ship. Find the dining room, the spa (take a tour), the pools and any areas you are interested in spending time. There is so much to do on cruise ships these days so you want to make the most of your time.

5
LUNCH

When you are ready to eat, there are usually several options to grab a bite. Keep in mind, the lido buffet area will be the most crowded so seek out other options. For example, on the Conquest Class ships on Carnival ,they have BBQ place on deck 10 Aft most people do not find until later in the cruise. Or on Oasis class ships, the Park Café. Usually you can get a great lunch with out the crowds. 

6
MUSTER DRILL

1. Every cruise you take you will need to participate in a muster drill or safety drill. Per Maritime law it is required everyone participate. It usually does not take more than 30 minutes so you will be able to get back to your drink soon enough. Once you get to your cabin, look on the back of your door to find your muster station and maybe take a picture of it. I know I am wearing a life jacket in the picture but you are not required to take your life jacket with you to the drill.

My last tip is you're finally on vacation so relax and have fun. Time to leave the stress behind and look forward to all the adventures ahead. 

If you have any questions or even your own tips, email mike@freedomtoroamtravel.com

​For all your cruise needs
Mike Miller - Travel Adviser
Call or Text
(904) 534-4318