What Is the Earliest You Can Board a Cruise Ship?

By Michael Ferguson

Cruise ships typically allow passengers to board the vessel in the hours leading up to the scheduled departure time. Depending on the size and type of cruise, boarding times can vary greatly. What is the earliest you can board a cruise ship?

The exact boarding time for a cruise ship will depend on the type of vessel and its itinerary. Smaller vessels may have a more relaxed boarding schedule, allowing for earlier access than larger ships with multiple destinations and activities.

Generally, cruise lines will open their check-in desks two or three hours before departure. This allows for passengers to arrive early to take care of any last minute needs such as exchanging currency, purchasing shore excursions or booking spa treatments.

Once check-in is complete, passengers will be given their cabin keys and allowed to embark the ship. Those who have purchased priority access packages will be able to board even earlier than those without these packages. Priority access packages are available through many cruise lines and allow passengers to board an hour or two before general boarding begins.

Once on board, passengers can explore their surroundings and enjoy activities such as swimming pools, live music and onboard shopping centers. Some vessels also have pre-departure buffets offering a variety of hot food items so that guests can begin their vacation with full bellies!

Conclusion:

The earliest you can board a cruise ship is typically two or three hours prior to departure time. However, if you purchase a priority access package from your cruise line, you may be able to board an hour or two earlier than general boarding begins. Once on board, there are plenty of activities for passengers to enjoy until it’s time for departure!