27 essential do's and don'ts for cruise ship embarkation

You've organized your cruise, and now the day has arrived. You can't wait to step aboard, unwind with a tropical drink, and gaze out at the ocean. It's vacation time—yay!

Hold on a moment. While you're ready to set sail, the crew is busy preparing the ship after last week's guests have disembarked.

You'll need to go through the pier-side check-in, which can take some time. Remember, you're one of thousands entering a floating city all at once. Just like any secure location, you can't simply stroll onto the ship.

To kick off your cruise smoothly, arrive at the pier with the expectation of encountering some lines and minor inconveniences—maybe even a bit of chaos. You'll be pleasantly surprised if everything goes smoothly. Stay calm and look forward to the fun that awaits once your voyage begins.

Here are some essential dos and don'ts to ensure a smooth embarkation day.

DO verify that you have all necessary paperwork and documentation.

The cruise line will provide pre-cruise reminders detailing what to expect during check-in, including health and safety protocols. This will specify which documents, IDs, QR codes, or other electronic receipts you need to have on hand.

Ultimately, it's your responsibility to come to the pier with the correct documentation. I recommend printing and bringing hard copies of your documents as a backup to digital versions.

DON'T arrive at the pier too early.

Many cruise lines give passengers a staggered arrival time for the pier. If you arrive too early, you'll likely end up waiting outside in the heat, without access to water, restrooms, or other essentials. Aim to arrive as close to your assigned time as possible, but don't panic if you're a few minutes late—you won't be turned away.

DO hand over your large suitcases.

Upon arriving at the pier, porters will be on hand to take your large suitcases, which will later be delivered to your cabin. (Tip the dock workers for their service.) Without your luggage in tow, you'll be free to navigate the embarkation process more easily. Ensure your suitcase is labeled with your name, cabin number, ship name, and sail date.

DON'T give up your carry-on bag.

In your cruise carry-on, include your medications, valuables, important documents, and anything else you'll need until your luggage arrives at your cabin. Since you're likely departing from a sunny spot, don't forget to pack a sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. If you’re coming from a colder climate, bring along shorts, flip-flops, and your swimsuit so you can jump into the pool as soon as you arrive.

DO be ready to pass through security.

After verifying your identity (either through paperwork or electronically) for the ship, you'll proceed through security. The process is similar to what you experience at an airport. You’ll place your belongings on a screening conveyor and walk through a metal detector. You won’t need to take off your shoes, but you'll have to remove belts and large jewelry, as well as empty your pockets.

DON'T attempt to smuggle prohibited items onto the ship.

Your carry-on will be scanned by an X-ray machine at the security checkpoint, and your checked bags may be searched before reaching you. While most cruise lines allow a small quantity of alcohol, soda, and bottled water for your cabin, ensure you don’t exceed the cruise line's limits for bringing beverages onboard.

Cruise lines have specific regulations regarding prohibited items, which you can check on your cruise line's website. These items typically include weapons, fireworks, flammable liquids, candles, clothing irons, incense, and anything else that creates a flame. For instance, Royal Caribbean also restricts martial arts equipment, baby monitors, and extension cords, among other things. Carnival even bans handcuffs.

DO take a moment to freshen up.

After your flight or drive to the port, you'll want to freshen up because the fun starts at the embarkation terminal. You'll find both official and unofficial photo opportunities there. Be sure to smile for the shipboard photographers, who will have a backdrop featuring the ship's name or image, or capture your own memories with personal photos.

DO pause and admire the ship's atrium as you enter.

Some ship atriums feature impressive heights or stunning artwork and chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. You've arrived at your floating home for the week, and it's perfectly fine to take a moment to marvel at it.

DON'T expect immediate access to your cabin.

Depending on your arrival time, your cabin may not be ready, as the crew needs to clean and prepare it after the previous guests. It’s best to avoid getting in the way of cabin stewards and instead find a spot to relax with your carry-on luggage until the ship announces that all cabins are ready.

DON'T rush to the buffet with the crowds.

As boarding begins around noon and extends into the afternoon, many passengers arrive hungry. Crew members often guide guests to the buffet, but savvy cruisers know there are often quieter dining options available.

On Carnival Cruise Line ships, head straight to celebrity chef Guy Fieri's poolside Guy's Burger Joint to treat yourself to a delicious burger or fries. If you're aboard one of the newer or recently renovated Carnival ships, don’t miss out on the embarkation day special of Fieri's pork butt, chicken, and Mac Daddy Mac n Cheese available on the promenade (or Deck 10 on Carnival Sunrise).

Savvy Royal Caribbean enthusiasts know to rush to the Park Café for the iconic Royal Kümmelweck roast beef sandwiches—an essential part of embarkation day. Alternatively, you might find a main dining room with waiter service or specialty paid restaurants for your embarkation day lunch.

DO go to your cabin as soon as it's ready.

While your larger bags may not have arrived yet, you can drop off your carry-ons and check that everything in your cabin meets your expectations. Your cabin steward will likely stop by to greet you. This is a great opportunity to ask about how the air conditioning, TV, and safe work, as well as request any extras you may need, such as additional towels, pillows, hangers, or to convert the bed from a queen to two twins. The steward will also inform you how to reach them if you need anything else during your cruise.

DO familiarize yourself with the safety instructions and check the life jackets.

Safety instructions will be displayed on the back of your cabin door. Check there for the number of your designated muster station in case of an onboard emergency. Life jackets can be found in your closet or elsewhere in the cabin. If you’re traveling with children, this is the time to ensure that there’s an appropriate infant or child-sized life jacket in addition to adult-sized ones. If any are missing, notify your cabin steward.

DO take the time to watch the safety video.

Previously, all passengers were required to gather at their assigned muster station on embarkation day for a safety briefing, during which attendance was checked. However, due to COVID-19 and the need to minimize crowds, many cruise lines have shifted to e-muster drills.

You’ll need to watch a video on your cabin TV or via the cruise line app that outlines what to do in case of a fire or other emergencies. Your smart TV or app will log that you’ve viewed the video. You may also have to check in with a crew member at your muster station. If you miss this step, your cabin number will be announced over the PA system, which can be quite embarrassing.

DO ensure that the kids understand the safety procedures.

It may prompt some eye rolls, but now is the perfect time to discuss with the kids the risks of climbing on railings or standing on balcony furniture. Remind them that other passengers are strangers and they should exercise the same caution they would at home. Set clear rules regarding their freedom on the ship, where to leave messages for each other, and how to regroup if you get separated.

DO take some time to explore the ship.

While you'll have plenty of time to explore during your cruise, I like to get familiar with the ship right away. You might find a deck plan (map) in your cabin, or you can get one at the purser's desk or through the cruise line's app. It’s exciting to discover not only the main areas but also hidden pools, hot tubs, and other gems you'll want to revisit throughout your trip. Exploring together as a family is a great way to bond.

DO enroll the kids in the cruise ship camp.

While you're exploring, make sure to visit the kids' centers and enroll your children in the onboard kids program. The staff will be there to greet your little ones and give them a tour of the play areas and hangouts designed just for them. Your kids may also need to receive wristbands that indicate their muster station for emergencies.

DO visit the spa and fitness center.

If you’re considering spa treatments or scheduling hair and beauty appointments during your cruise, now is the time to make those bookings (if you haven't already). Take the opportunity to tour the spa and enter the raffle—you might just win a complimentary treatment.

If the soothing thermal suite catches your eye—featuring various hot and cold treatments—sign up right away, as spots tend to fill up quickly. Don’t forget to put your name on the signup sheets for fitness classes, which also fill up fast.

DO take some time to unwind and relax.

You don’t have to do everything on your first day, so if you find a lovely spot in the sun or shade, take a moment to relax and recharge. Exciting adventures await; a quick catnap might be just what you need.

DON'T assume that drinks are complimentary.

As you stroll around, especially on deck, you’ll notice cheerful crew members carrying trays filled with enticing, colorful icy drinks, often adorned with cute little umbrellas. Feel free to grab one if you’d like, but be aware that you’ll be charged for that welcome drink.

DO be mindful of your alcohol intake.

We understand that you purchased a drinks package (which means that drink is included), and you want to take full advantage of it. However, do you really want your first day to lead to a regrettable morning after? It’s wiser to pace yourself and stay hydrated with plenty of water between your cocktails.

DO take some time to unpack.

Once you've familiarized yourself with the ship, you’ll likely want to unpack and prepare for your first evening. Avoid placing your luggage directly on the duvet; instead, use the provided luggage mat. Organize your belongings, as cruise cabins can get messy quickly. When you're done, tuck your suitcases under the bed.

DO reach out if your luggage hasn't shown up.

It can take a while to deliver thousands of bags to numerous cabins. However, if your luggage hasn’t arrived close to your ship's departure time, let your cabin steward know. (If you’ve switched cabins at the last minute, check for your luggage in your original room.)

DO remember to take your seasickness tablets.

If you're susceptible to seasickness, make sure to take your first dose a few hours before the ship is set to depart. They need some time to take effect.

DO switch off your cellphone.

To avoid expensive roaming fees, keep your cellphone in airplane mode. If you want to stay connected with those back home or share your adventures on social media, think about purchasing a shipboard Wi-Fi package. Crew members will be available on the first day to assist you with logging in and connecting.

DON'T overlook making dinner plans.

You might be considering dining in the main dining room on your first evening or opting for something casual at the buffet. Don't forget about specialty dining. These intimate, fee-based restaurants can be tricky to book (reservations are a must), but they tend to be less crowded on the first night of your cruise. Additionally, some cruise lines offer a complimentary or discounted bottle of wine as a thank-you.

DO explore the daily program.

You’ll find a schedule of all the daily activities available in your cabin, on the cabin TV, or through the ship's app. Check it out to see what exciting events are planned for your first night onboard.

DON'T forget to join the sailaway party.

This marks the first major event of your cruise and is something you won't want to miss. These parties are filled with music, laughter, and a chance to mingle with your fellow travelers for the week. Plus, witnessing the land fade away as your ship sails into the open sea is a magical moment. You're embarking on a journey to new adventures. So, grab a drink and raise a toast to the official kickoff of your cruise getaway!