Embarkation times are printed on the front of your cruise documents. Generally, you will be allowed to board two or three hours before the ship sails. Guests are occasionally allowed to board earlier, depending on their port of embarkation. Keep in mind that you must be on the ship at least one hour before departure, and the gangway will be pulled thirty minutes before sailing.

Prior to boarding, you will pass through a security checkpoint. Next, you will be required to complete ship check-in formalities. For this procedure, you will need to present your travel documents, including the Embarkation Coupon, a completed Immigration questionnaire (one per person), and the required identification

Upon completion of check-in, you will receive a guest identification card. The cards usually serve as your identification for security procedures when embarking and disembarking the ship and when making purchases on board. Please have your card ready and available whenever exiting or entering the ship, as you will need to scan your card at the gangway.

As you walk up the gangway, a member of the cruise staff will welcome you aboard, and a steward will show you to your stateroom. Your luggage will be delivered shortly after it arrives at the ship. Embarkation procedures are smooth and easy-you carry nothing but your hand luggage, and everything is beautifully organized so you have no worries. It is truly a suitable prelude to your carefree holiday. Once you are shown to your stateroom you will receive your cabin key if the ID card is not used for this purpose. You are then free to explore the ship. Do it early before the crowds arrive. Refreshments are usually available during embarkation in one of the restaurants, usually the self serve facility.

Most cruise packages include ground transportation (usually by motorcoach), called transfers, to and from the ship. However if you made your own flight arrangements you must also arrange for these transfers. For a nominal fee, most cruise lines will offer transfers to those who have made their own flight arrangements. These arrangements must be made in advance and should be made when your flights are booked. Do not wait until the last minute or expect the cruise line to provide this for you after you arrive at the airport. Your travel agent can assist you with the purchase of transfers for your cruise.

Your transportation vouchers will be collected as you board the transfer vehicle, so please have your voucher readily accessible. DO NOT pack vouchers in your checked bags.

Cruise lines are very security conscious. Most ships have a "no visitor" policy However, friends may easily arrange to send a bon voyage gift directly to your stateroom. The only exception is for wedding parties and these arrangements are made in advance of the cruise.