CruiseInsiderFirst-time cruisers · 4 min read
The embarkation-day carry-on trick
Your suitcase may reach your cabin hours after you do. Here's what to keep with you.
On embarkation day you hand your suitcases to the porters at the terminal — and you may not see them again until early evening.
Pack a small day bag with
- Passport, boarding documents and any medication
- Swimwear and sunscreen: the pools are open from the first afternoon
- Phone charger and a light layer for the sail-away
- Anything valuable or fragile
Arrive at your assigned time, eat lunch on board and explore the ship while it's still quiet.
Free guide
The First-Time Cruiser Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Book
- Cabin types and how to choose the best one
- Hidden costs nobody tells you about
- Drink packages: when they're worth it
- Tipping and onboard charges
- What to pack in your cruise suitcase
- The most common beginner mistakes
- Pre-embarkation checklist
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Tipping and extra costs on board
Service charges, specialty dining, Wi-Fi and the extras that surprise first-timers.
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