What’s the best cruise ship boarding time? Earlier… or later?
Key Moments
Editorial Summary
The creator discusses the strategic advantages and disadvantages of choosing different boarding times when embarking on a cruise. While many cruise lines require passengers to select a specific boarding window, some lines offer open boarding. The video explores the benefits of early boarding, such as avoiding crowds and maximizing time spent on amenities like the Lido deck pool. However, the creator notes that early boarding presents challenges regarding luggage, as staterooms are often not ready for occupancy, forcing passengers to either carry their bags or wait until later in the day to receive them. The creator expresses a personal preference for boarding later in the afternoon, specifically after 1:30 PM. This strategy allows passengers to go directly to their staterooms once they are open and ready for occupancy without having to check luggage. The video concludes by acknowledging that while later boarding allows for easier unpacking, it does result in less time spent on the ship and potentially longer food lines.
Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.
Source: Our analysis of the creator's lived experience, based on what they said in this video.
Creator's Key Takeaways
it took me quite a few cruises to figure this out
my preference is to board the ship later after 1:30 when State rooms are already open and ready
if you're one of the first people on board it's not nearly as crowded plus you can maximize your time on the ship
the downside is the luggage State rooms aren't open yet so you either have to shop it around with you or check your bag
Creator's Tips & Advice
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