How soon can I board my Carnival cruise?

Cruise ships will usually begin boarding approximately four hours before the scheduled departure time, typically around 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. If you’d like to arrive at that time, go right ahead! You can hop onboard and grab some lunch or start your vacation right in a lounge chair by the pool, fruity drink and all.

How early can I board my cruise ship?

The earliest that guests can board a cruise is between 4-5 hours before the ship is scheduled to sail away. Guests may be able to check in earlier but will usually not be able to embark until this time.

What time is final boarding for Carnival cruise?

60 minutes
All guests must be checked-in for final boarding 60 minutes prior to the published sailing time or they will not be permitted to sail.

Do cruise ships search your luggage?

All checked bags on cruise ships are scanned. Passengers must pass through an airport-style detector but do not have to remove shoes; they will have a digital photo taken.

What happens on cruise embarkation day?

Embarkation day for your cruise vacation is an exciting day. You get to board the ship and check into your stateroom. You’ll likely have a glass of Champagne or other drink in your hand within moments of boarding, activating vacation mode.

Can you go straight to your room on a cruise?

Cruise line staff will be on hand to direct you to the correct line; suite passengers and high-status past-passengers will typically go into a shorter line or separate waiting area, while regular passengers join a main line. At check-in, you will present your ID and documents for the representative to check you in.

How strict is cruise security?

Most cruise lines go to extraordinary lengths to follow security procedures and all are subject to stringent regulations. In most cases, passengers experience boarding procedures no more bothersome than those observed in US airports, while the level of onboard safety during the cruise is upheld.

What’s the best time to board a cruise ship?

We recommend getting to the terminal either early (11 a.m. to noon), before the rush, or late (after 2 p.m.), when most people are already onboard. You might still have a little wait, but it won’t be anything compared to peak boarding time.

What are the VIP levels on Carnival cruise?

There are five levels in the VIFP Club:

• Blue: Cruise Rookies.
• Red: 2-24 VIFP Points.
• Gold: 25-74 VIFP Points.
• Platinum: 75-199 VIFP Points.
• Diamond: 200+ VIFP Points.

Can you get kicked off a cruise for bringing alcohol?

There’s no doubt that trying to sneak on alcohol is relatively common among cruise passengers. It’s not worth the risk to try and bring your own alcohol. While stories of passengers getting kicked off the ship are few (if any), there is a strong possibility that your alcohol will be confiscated if found.

What do you wear on embarkation day?

Embarkation day is all about having fun, so wearing what you’re comfortable in is key….Here are some examples of what I usually see cruisers wear when boarding the ship:

• Tees.
• Tanks.
• Short sleeve or sleeveless tops.
• Golf shirts or polos.
• Casual button-up shirts or blouses.
• Shorts.
• Capris.
• Casual pants.