Embarkation/Debarkation? - Cruise Line Fans: Cruise Reviews and Chat From Real Cruisers

Leannie · 09-28-2005, 01:14 PM

Can you tell I'm a newbie?
We have relatives in Charleston, so we will not have to park our car in the deck at the port. How long does the embarkation process take? Should we be there at the very beginning? Or can we take our time? How late is "too late" to show up for the process. Our ship leaves at 10:00 pm.

During Debarkation, how long does this process usually take? Again, should we try to be the first ones off the ship, or should we pace ourselves?

Oh, so many questions... I'm afraid I just don't know enough to know what I need to know. Y'know?

Bombero · 09-28-2005, 02:42 PM

Leannie.. First of all find out what time boarding starts.. If it starts at the normal time, I would try to get there about noonish.. The early birds should be on by then and the crowd at check in should have thinned out.. Embarking can take 15 min. to 1 hour, but if the lines are down by the time you arrive, I'd guess you should be in and on the ship in less than 30 minutes.. Go on line and fill out your boarding information less your credit card number, (they have to verify your card anyway) or you will have to fill all that out when you arrive at check-in.. From there, I'd go find your room and unpack your carry on, then go up to the Lido Deck to the buffet, as you will be hungry by then.. Then explore the ship and get ready for the cruise of your life... Happy Sailing

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Leannie · 09-29-2005, 01:10 PM

Thanks Bombero.
However, with this being my first cruise, I do not know what "normal time" is. From what I can find on the Port of Charleston site, boarding may not begin until around 7:00 pm.

What do you suggest for such a late bording?