Embarkation: Arrivaing at the ship, checking your luggage, and boarding. What Should I Expect on Embarkation Day?

What Should I Expect on Embarkation Day?

Embarkation day is exciting—and much easier than many first-time cruisers expect. Here's what to expect from the time you arrive at the cruise terminal until you're officially on vacation.

Step 1: Arrive at the Cruise Terminal

Before leaving for the port, make sure you have:

• Your passport or other required travel documents

• Your cruise boarding documents

• Any required visas or travel authorizations

• Prescription medications and valuables in your carry-on bag

• Your luggage tags attached to each checked bag

Please arrive during the arrival window you selected during online check-in. Arriving significantly earlier than your scheduled time may result in additional waiting.

Pro Tip

Print your luggage tags at home before leaving for your cruise. Attach them securely to your luggage using clear plastic cruise luggage tag holders, which are inexpensive and widely available from Amazon and other retailers. This helps protect your tags from being torn off during handling and makes the check-in process smoother.

Step 2: Check Your Luggage

When you arrive at the terminal, porters will be waiting outside to assist with your larger luggage.

Simply hand them your tagged suitcases, and they will deliver them directly to your stateroom later that afternoon.

Keep the following items with you in your carry-on bag:

• Passport and travel documents

• Medications

• Wallet and valuables

• Electronics and chargers

• Swimsuit (if you'd like to enjoy the pool before your luggage arrives)

• Anything you'll need for the first several hours onboard

Because checked luggage may not arrive at your cabin until later in the day, don't pack anything you'll need immediately in your checked bags.

Step 3: Cruise Check-In

After entering the terminal, you'll proceed to the cruise line's check-in area.

A representative will verify your:

• Passport or other required identification

• Boarding documents

• Reservation information

• Travel requirements

Once everything has been verified, you'll be cleared to continue to security.

Step 4: Security Screening

You'll then pass through a security checkpoint similar to airport security.

Typically, you'll:

• Place your carry-on bags on the X-ray belt

• Walk through a metal detector

• Have any prohibited items removed if necessary

The process is generally quick and straightforward.

Step 5: Board the Ship

Congratulations—you're officially boarding your cruise!

As you step onboard, you'll often be greeted by crew members welcoming you to the ship.

Many guests like to take a few photos before beginning to explore.

Step 6: Visit Your Stateroom

Your cabin may or may not be ready immediately, depending on your boarding time.

If your stateroom is available:

• Drop off your carry-on items.

• Locate your SeaPass card (or other room-access credential), which is typically waiting outside your cabin door or available digitally through the cruise line's app.

• Familiarize yourself with your cabin and nearby elevators.

If cabins are not yet open, simply begin exploring the ship until an announcement is made that staterooms are ready.

Step 7: Complete Your Muster Drill

Before the ship departs, every guest is required to complete the mandatory safety briefing.

Most cruise lines now use an efficient self-guided process:

1. Watch the required safety video in the cruise line's app or on your stateroom television.

2. Visit your assigned Muster Station, which is noted on your Sea Pass and ship app.

3. A crew member will scan your SeaPass card or confirm your attendance.

The process usually takes only a few minutes and is required before sailaway.

Step 8: Start Your Vacation!

Once you've completed your muster check-in, you're free to enjoy the ship.

Many guests choose to:

• Explore the ship

• Grab lunch

• Visit the pool deck

• Make dining or entertainment reservations

• Attend the sailaway party

• Meet fellow travelers

If you're sailing with Tom's Trips, be sure to watch your welcome materials and the Tom's Trips schedule for information about our hosted activities, meet-and-greets, daily gatherings, and other exclusive events.

Tom's Trips Tip

Don't stress if everything doesn't go perfectly. The crew assists thousands of guests every embarkation day and is exceptionally good at helping travelers navigate the boarding process. Take your time, ask questions if you need help, and enjoy the excitement—your vacation is officially underway!