I recently asked a group of new cruisers what is something they are afraid of before their first cruise. I was surprised at how many responded with they are afraid of being late or missing the ship!

Here are essential tips to make sure you don’t miss your cruise ship — both on embarkation day and at ports of call:

Before Embarkation (Don’t Miss the Ship at the Start!)

Arrive the Day Before

• Fly in at least a day early. Flights on embarkation day are risky — delays or cancellations happen often.
• Bonus: You’ll start your vacation stress-free and rested!

Double Check Embarkation Time

• Ships often start boarding 4–5 hours before sail away, but close the gangway 60–90 minutes before departure.
• Example: If the ship leaves at 4:00 PM, you should be onboard by 2:30 PM. They typically close the terminal doors at least two hours before departure.

A fellow passenger I knew from a Facebook group was upset. She arrived at the port at 4:30. The ship was already gone! Our boarding passes said the ship departure time was 4:00!

Pre-register and Check In Online

• Complete your cruise line’s online check-in, print or download your boarding pass, luggage tags, and ID. Attach your tags to your bags/suitcases before you arrive at the terminal. Make sure they are ready before you give them to the porter.

Plan Port Transportation Carefully

• If you’re driving, leave extra time for parking, shuttles, and security lines. Reserve ahead of time.
• If using Uber/taxis, give yourself plenty of time for traffic, construction, or delays.

While in Port (Don’t Get Left Behind!)

Know the All-Aboard Time

• This is usually 30–60 minutes before the posted departure time.
• They have large signs and make announcements as you leave the ship.
• It’s listed in the daily schedule or cruise line app. The ship will not wait for you!
• You will be anchored at sea if you are at a tender port. Water shuttles will take you into the port. The shuttles will stop running at a specific time. Make a note of their last run.
• If you need a pier ride, like a bicycle rickshaw, arrive back to the pier early. They often stop running about an hour to half an hour before departure time.

Use Ship Time, Not Local Time

• Some islands are in a different time zone. Your phone may update automatically and confuse you.
• Always check and set your watch/phone to ship time, which is what they go by!

This is a confusing point to many new cruisers. Make sure you understand the SHIP TIME before you leave the ship.

Book Excursions Through the Cruise Line

• If the ship-sponsored excursion runs late, the ship will wait or arrange transport to the next port.
• Independent tours? Much riskier. If you’re late, you’re on your own.

I usually book independent excursions. I use reputable companies. They have a proven record and guarantee to get you back to the ship on time. If it’s a full day tour you are better off booking through the cruise line.

Give Yourself a Buffer

• Plan to be back onboard at least 1 hour before all-aboard. Build in time for taxis, crowds, or surprise delays. (We were behind an accident one time and luckily our driver knew another route.)
• Be careful when you are enjoying those poolside drinks at an all-inclusive beach resort! Be aware of the time as you relax.
  

Watching “pier runners” can be fun…if you’re on the ship ready to leave. You don’t need to stress or worry if you use good time management!