Cruise Boarding Day Important Checklist

On boarding day of a cruise, being well-prepared can help you start your vacation stress-free. Here’s a checklist of the most important things you’ll need and should do to ensure a smooth embarkation process:

📋 CRUISE BOARDING DAY CHECKLIST

✅ 1. Required Documents

• Boarding pass / eDocs (printed or digital)

• Valid passport or Government-issued ID.  Click Here for guidance on identification as requirements vary based on itinerary, guest citizenship & residency.

• Visa(s) if required for any country on your itinerary

• Cruise line luggage tags (attached to your checked baggage)

🔐 Make sure the name on your ID matches your reservation exactly.  Legal names of all passengers provided to the cruise line should match identification provided at cruise terminal. 

All cruise line passengers must provide proper travel documentation when boarding the ship. Because documentation requirements vary by the citizenship and residence of each passenger (as well as the specific ports that your cruise visits), it is your responsibility to determine what documentation is required and to acquire that documentation before the cruise. Neither the cruise line nor your travel agent can do this for you.  Any passenger who does not present the required documentation will not be allowed to board the ship and the cruise line will not issue a refund.  Click Here for additional information regarding identification requirements.

💳 2. Payment & Onboard Spending Info

• Credit/debit card for the completion of your onboard account setup, which will allow for purchases made while on your cruise.

• Cash (optional, but helpful for tips or taxis)

🎒 3. Carry-On Bag Essentials

Your main luggage may not arrive to your stateroom for a few hours, so pack a carry-on with:

• Medications

• Travel documents

• Phone, charger, and cruise app downloaded

• Swimsuit, flip-flops, sunscreen (if you want to swim right away)

• A change of clothes

• Camera or valuables (jewelry, electronics, cash)

• Refillable water bottle

🛳️ 4. Cruise Line Mobile App

• Download the app.  Most cruise lines now use mobile apps for:

  • Online check-in

  • Daily schedules

  • Onboard purchases

  • Dining and excursion reservations

📅 5. Pre-Scheduled Arrival Time

• Arrive at the port at your assigned embarkation time to avoid delays or long lines.

• Transportation options: plan ahead whether you’re using a ride service, shuttle, or parking at the pier.

⚠️ Don’t Forget:

✅ In Summary: Essentials for Boarding Day