my cruise ship left without me

What Actually Happens When You Miss The Cruise Ship?

We have all seen videos of “Pier Runners.” Poor, unfortunate guests who miss the departure time for their ship leaving port, and are left standing on the quayside!

And what happens if you never make it to your ship in the first place?– flight delays, roadworks, unforeseen circumstances – what will happen then?

In this article, we look at what actually happens when you “miss the boat” – and what you can do to prevent this from happening to you!

Missing Your Ship After a Day In Port

Whether or not your ship will wait for late passengers depends on a number of things. These include

Port regulations and how strict the cruise ship schedule is
How many passengers are missing
Whether the passengers are on a cruise line excursion
How the captain feels on the day! Some Captains may be more forgiving than others…

If you go on a cruise ship excursion, the ship is far more likely to wait for you. If it can’t, the cruise line should take financial and logistical responsibility for getting you to another port to meet up with your ship.

Cruise lines certainly play on this – advising you to always book excursions with them to avoid “missing the boat.”

Personally, I rarely take cruise line excursions. I sometimes book my own excursion privately with a local company, but I always make sure that excursion would get me back to port at least a couple of hours before the ship leaves.

I hate to be late and would find it extremely stressful if I thought we didn’t have ample time to allow for unforeseen circumstances. Check reviews for excursion providers and make sure they have a good punctuality record! If you have any doubts, don’t book it!

If You Know You Are Running Late

It is only sensible to take phone numbers and a mobile/cell phone with you when you explore ports. On the ship’s daily schedule there are often phone numbers for the ship, the port agent and the cruise lines customer service department.

For example, let them know if your train is running late and you are going to be 15 minutes late back to the ship – there is no guarantee that they will wait for you, but if they know what is going on, there is more chance that they will try and be accommodating.

If you just don’t turn up on time and don’t make contact they may be more inclined to just leave without you.

What To Do If The Ship Has Left Without You

Most cruise lines have port agents stationed in the port area to assist if your ship has left without you.

In cases when cruisers are late returning to the vessel, the ship’s crew will often have been into your cabin and removed essential items – passports, mobile/cell phones and medication. These will be left with the port agent. The port agent can help you with contacting your ship and making ongoing travel arrangements

You will either have to either meet the ship in a subsequent port or travel home.

Your cruise line, travel agent or travel insurance provider might be able to help you make the plans or otherwise, you’ll have to make arrangements on your own. You will be responsible for any costs incurred.

You may be able to claim some costs back from your travel insurance, but that depends on your individual policy and the level of cover it gives.

If All Else Fails, Contact Your Country’s Embassy

If you find yourself without proper identification, you can’t get through to your ship or cruise line, or you don’t speak the local language to ask for help, call your country’s Embassy closest to the port you’re visiting. (or show the address to a taxi driver who can take you there.)

Embassy staff can help you plan your next steps and potentially put you in contact with someone who can help you to reach your ship or return home.

Travelling to the Ship’s Next Port Of Call

Even in cases where it is logistically easy to get to a ship’s next port of call, you may not be legally allowed to board the vessel at that port.

Some countries, including the United States, have “cabotage” laws that restrict the number of ports where foreign-flagged vessels such as cruise ships can pick up and drop off passengers.

In the United States, for instance, the Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886 says foreign vessels, such as cruise ships, can’t transport passengers from one U.S. port to another U.S. port, either directly or by way of a nearby foreign port (defined as ports in North and Central America, Bermuda or most Caribbean islands). The Act does not apply to sailings that begin and end in the same U.S. port, provided the sailings include at least one stop at any foreign port. It also has an exception for trips between two different U.S. ports that include a stop at a distant foreign port.

What that means, in practice, is that a cruise line cannot let you join a ship at a U.S. port (such as Port Canaveral, Florida) if you later will be disembarking at a different U.S. port — say, New York or Miami — unless a visit to a distant port such as Aruba is on the itinerary. This is a rule that can severely limit your options if you want to join a ship part-way through a cruise.

Retrieve Your Belongings If You Are Not Going To Re-Board The Ship

If you decide to return home or decide it is logistically difficult to rejoin the ship at the next port, you will have to make arrangements to retrieve your luggage.

The cruise line can usually have everything shipped to you, but this is unlikely to be cheap.

Sensible Precautions To Take When Disembarking At A Port.

Set an alarm that allows you plenty of time to make your way back to the ship is the best way to avoid missing the leaving time.
Be aware that local time and ships time may vary
When you leave the ship, there is normally a prominent notice that states the “all aboard “time. Take notice of this, or take a photo of it so that you can check back if necessary.
Take photocopies of passports, driver’s licenses (both sides) and credit cards (both sides) ashore with you (if you’re not taking the actual cards )
Take phone numbers for your ship and port agents that are often found listed on the daily schedules you’ll receive onboard each day. Also, save your cruise line’s customer service department to your phone. Other useful phone numbers could include your travel agent, and the local Embassy for your county. Better not to keep them in a rucksack in case they are stolen, maybe put them in a pocket or somewhere more secure.

What Happens If You Are Delayed And Never Make It On To The Ship In The First Place?

You will need to claim on your travel insurance. Always take out travel insurance before a holiday to make sure they are covered for any incidents. Make sure you have insurance that specifically includes cruise travel.

Crui se Travel Insurance – Why You Need it and How to Get It: (Step by Step Illustrated Guide)

If you have to return home then your flights back will not be refunded – nor will you get any compensation for any portion of the cruise that you missed. Cruise lines generally do not offer refunds or future cruise credits for passengers who miss a cruise due to travel delays. This includes partial refunds for missed days if you join a cruise a day or two late.

The only exception here is that some lines may offer at least a partial refund if you miss a cruise due to a documented emergency. But they do this on a case-by-case basis, and you can’t count on it.

The Bottom Line

It’s not going to be easy to salvage your trip if you are late for your cruise departure. My advice is to always travel to the port of departure at least a day in advance of a cruise to avoid the risk – and stress – of missing your cruise altogether!

It is always YOUR responsibility to make sure you make it to the ship in plenty of time. The cruise line cannot be held responsible if you don’t make it to the cruise terminal in time, or don’t make it back after a port stop!

(I have personal experience of nearly missing my cruise! A few years ago we booked a Christmas cruise, from Barcelona. At that time I only lived an hour from the airport, and we made sure we left early in the morning with plenty of time for delays.

Unfortunately, the car engine blew up on the way to the airport and we had to be rescued and rushed to the airport by family! We caught the plane “by the skin of our teeth” as it were!

It would have caused all sorts of problems if we hadn’t made it on to our flight. With it being Christmas, most other flights were fully booked – or extremely expensive! We had a couple of days in Barcelona before the cruise, but there was no guarantee we could have even got to Barcelona at all….)

Before You Go

Find out whether you would be better to buy the cruise lines travel insurance, or research and buy your own directly from the Insurance company here:

Should You Buy Your Travel Insurance Through The Cruise Line or Directly from an Insurance Company?

Should you book your next cruise directly from the cruise line, or use a travel agent? Find out the pros and cons here:

Is It Best To Use a Travel Agent or Book Directly With The Cruise Line? (Money-Saving Hints and Tips For Booking, and Much More…)

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

Ever wondered how the mainstream cruise lines compare? Cruise lines won’t tell you this, but I will.

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What happens if you miss your cruise

Have you ever missed a flight because you showed up late at the airport? It can be a painful lesson in the importance of building wiggle room into your travel plans. But, in many cases, it'll only cause a modest delay in your travels , with little or no add-on costs.

Not so with cruises.

Late-arrivers for flights often can hop on another plane to their destination just a few hours later, sometimes even with change fees waived due to quasi-official " flat tire rule " policies. But travelers who are even just a few minutes late for a cruise sometimes can find their entire trip ruined.

At the very least, cruisers who miss a ship's departure — as quite a few have this summer due to worse-than-normal flight delays — often face huge expenses and logistical challenges trying to catch up with the vessel at its next port of call. In some cases, due to laws that restrict where ships can be boarded, they might not be able to join the vessel at all.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

It's for this reason that pretty much anyone having anything to do with the cruise business — cruise line sales professionals, cruise-selling travel agents and cruise-focused travel writers like me — will tell you to always travel to your departure port at least a day before your cruise, even if you're traveling by car. It may seem like overkill, and it'll add to the expense of the trip. But the consequences of missing a cruise departure can be so disastrous that it's a sensible move.

For those whose initial impulse is to resist such advice, let's address some of the key concerns surrounding what happens if you miss your cruise.

Can I board a cruise ship late?

Not only can you not board a cruise ship late, the cut-off time for boarding is actually a lot earlier than the sail-away time.

This is a case where everything you've learned about airplanes is true for cruise ships, too. Just because your ship is listed as leaving at 4 pm, it doesn't mean you can stroll up to the pier at 3:57 pm and expect to make it on board.

The typical cut-off time for boarding ships is a full hour before departure. That said, it can be even longer (and, in some cases shorter) depending on the line, port and itinerary. To be safe, read the documentation that you receive after booking (these days, often in electronic form) for specific information about boarding times for your sailing.

It's also a risky move to aim to arrive exactly at the cut-off time. Keep in mind that some of the bigger departure ports such as Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades can be jammed with traffic on departure days, slowing down the arrival process. I once got stuck in a massive traffic jam around one of the guard gates at Port Everglades. It added at least 15 minutes to what should have been a quick five- to 10-minute Uber ride from a nearby hotel.

Will a cruise ship leave without me?

If you do not arrive at the port before the boarding window ends, the cruise ship will most certainly leave without you. Even if you are standing at the pier, waving frantically. That's because a cruise ship's departure time is carefully planned and more than just your vacation is at stake.

Just like airplanes, cruise ships are on tight schedules — much tighter than you may realize. If a ship delays its departure by an hour while it waits for you to arrive, it very well may arrive an hour late at its next port of call.

That's a situation that, on bigger ships, can impact thousands of people — not just passengers who will see their experience at that port diminished, but also dock workers, tour guides and bus drivers at the destination who have planned their day around the vessel's arrival.

At many ports, a local harbor pilot will be waiting for your ship on a boat just offshore to help guide it in, and they will be expecting your vessel at an appointed time. This service often comes with a high charge, and if the ship arrives too far behind schedule, it can result in hefty fees. Ship captains will do all they can to avoid disrupting the planned schedule.

Related: Can a cruise ship leave without you?

One common misperception among cruisers is that cruise lines will hold a ship for late-arriving passengers if they are arriving on cruise line-booked flights. This generally is not the case. Even if you are arriving on a flight booked through the cruise line, the ship still will sail without you if that flight is delayed and you are not at the pier on time.

What cruise lines will do if you miss a cruise departure due to a delay on a cruise line-booked flight is help you get to the ship at another port. That is, if they can do so legally (more on that in a moment).

Note that the policies vary from line to line on this issue. Some lines are a bit vague about what exactly they will do to help passengers reach the ship. Others spell it out quite clearly. Carnival, for instance, says right on its website that if you miss a cruise departure due to delays in flights booked through its Fly2Fun air program, it will "make the necessary flight, hotel and/or ground transportation arrangements to get you to the next port of call on time at no expense to you."

Can I join the ship at the next port?

Even in cases where it is logistically easy to get to a ship's next port of call, you may not be legally allowed to board the vessel at that port. Some countries, including the United States, have "cabotage" laws that restrict the number of ports where foreign-flagged vessels such as cruise ships can pick up and drop off passengers. These laws are designed to protect domestic shipping industries from foreign competition.

In the United States, for instance, the Passenger Vessel Services Act of 1886 says foreign vessels cannot transport passengers from one U.S. port to another U.S. port, either directly or by way of a nearby foreign port (defined as ports in North and Central America, Bermuda or most Caribbean islands). The Act does not apply to sailings that begin and end in the same U.S. port, provided the sailings include at least one stop at any foreign port. It also has an exception for trips between two different U.S. ports that include a stop at a distant foreign port.

What that means, in practice, is that a cruise line cannot let you join a ship at a U.S. port such as Port Canaveral, Florida, if you later will be disembarking at a different U.S. port — say, New York or Miami — unless a visit to a distant port such as Aruba is on the itinerary. This is a rule that can severely limit your options if you want to join a ship part way through a cruise.

Related: 6 ways you can ruin your cruise in an instant

To give one specific example: Under the law, it's perfectly fine for the Bermuda-flagged ships of Princess Cruises to operate Alaska voyages that begin in Vancouver, BC, and end in Whittier, Alaska — a common itinerary for the line. Since the voyages don't begin in a U.S. port, they are exempt from the law.

But if someone misses the departure of such a voyage from Vancouver, they can't simply board at a later stop. All the later stops on this route — the Alaskan towns of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway — are in the United States. Someone boarding in one of those ports and disembarking at the end of the cruise in Whittier would be traveling between two U.S. ports without a stop at at distant foreign port, creating a violation of the Passenger Services Act.

Cruise ships do, occasionally, violate the law. For instance, it's standard policy in the industry to evacuate a passenger with a medical emergency to the nearest suitable port even if it means triggering a Passenger Vessel Services Act violation. In such cases, a line would face a U.S. Customs and Border Protection penalty that currently is set at $778 per person, unless the agency granted a waiver.

Some lines also will occasionally allow waylaid passengers to join a ship at a forbidden port if they agree to pay the penalty themselves. But it isn't common, if only because the penalty is so high. A family of four would pay $3,112 for the privilege — more than the cost of many cruises.

If you are legally allowed to board a ship at a later port, you will be responsible for paying all the costs related to getting to that port. One exception, as noted above, would be in a situation where you missed the original departure because of a delay with a cruise line-booked flight. Another exception would be in a case where you had a certain type of travel insurance (more on that below).

Can I get a refund or credit for the missed cruise?

Cruise lines generally do not offer refunds or future cruise credits for passengers who miss a cruise due to travel delays. This includes partial refunds for missed days if you join a cruise a day or two late.

The only exception here is that some lines may offer at least a partial refund if you miss a cruise due to a documented emergency. But they do this on a case-by-case basis, and you can't count on it.

Related: 7 ways to prepare for any kind of travel disaster

Will travel insurance help if I miss my cruise ship?

If you miss a day or two of a cruise because of a delayed flight, you might be able to get some reimbursement through a travel insurance policy , assuming you have one. Then again, you might not. Most travel insurance plans offer "trip interruption" coverage that kicks in after missed connections. But there often is fine print that limits the circumstances where it is valid.

"Some plans offer missed connection coverage only for weather-related delays, while other plans may also cover delays caused by … mechanical breakdown," said Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com , a leading travel insurance comparison site.

In addition, while the missed connection coverage in many plans only requires a delay of three consecutive hours to be valid, some less pricey plans may have a six- or 12-hour delay requirement, Sandberg said. Coverage maximums for missed connection claims also vary widely. Some are as low as $250, Sandberg says.

If it does kick in, missed connection coverage would cover the cost of flights or other transportation needed to reach your cruise ship at a secondary port as well as "reasonable" costs for accommodations, meals and telephone expenses incurred while in transit to the ship, Sandberg said. Such insurance also would reimburse any prepaid expenses for unused land or water travel arrangements.

If you drive to a cruise and miss the ship due to traffic delays, travel insurance isn't as accommodating. Traffic delays typically aren't considered a covered reason for reimbursement under missed connection coverage, according to Sandberg.

That said, "some travel insurance plans will provide trip cancellation coverage if the insured is involved in a documented traffic accident on the way to their departure point," he added.

Even if you haven't bought travel insurance specifically for your cruise, you may be able to tap trip interruption insurance that's a benefit of some credit cards for at least partial reimbursement of expenses related to missing a cruise departure. Many premium Chase cards, including Chase Sapphire Reserve, for instance, provide trip interruption insurance with relatively high maximum coverage amounts for trips booked using the cards.

Just be warned that this benefit often comes with a lot of fine print that can make it tough to collect in many circumstances. The fine print on Chase Sapphire Reserve's travel insurance benefit, for instance, says its trip interruption coverage does not apply to "loss caused by or resulting from … Common carrier caused delays, unless they are as a result of an organized strike that affects public transportation." It also specifically says it does not apply to loss from "travel arrangements canceled or changed by a common carrier, tour operator, or any travel agent, unless the cancellation is the result of severe weather or an organized strike affecting public transportation."

To our ears, that sounds pretty limiting.

Could a travel agent help me?

There are plenty of travelers these days who pooh-pooh the notion of booking through a travel agent. But in the case of a missed cruise departure, travel agents can be a big help.

Many of the big travel agency groups do many millions of dollars of business with each of the major cruise lines, giving them clout they can deploy to your advantage. They also have agents with personal relationships with problem solvers at various lines who can jump into action on your behalf.

"You have an advocate available to you to help if something doesn't go as planned," said Jill LaBarre, vice president of business development at Palm Coast Travel, owner of Oasis Travel Network and SmartCruiser.com . "I'm not sure the occasional cruiser would know where to begin to salvage their trip [after a missed departure]."

LaBarre recalled the case of a family that missed its flight to Miami for a Norwegian Cruise Line trip by minutes. While the family didn't make the flight, its bags did, creating a situation with some complicated logistics to fix.

For starters, she quickly rebooked the family on a flight to St. Thomas, where the ship would be two days later, so the family could join it there. She also booked the family into a resort in St. Thomas for the two days until the ship arrived.

But the more complicated issue was reuniting the family with its bags. The bags now were stranded at the Miami airport. LaBarre sought help from the assistant hotel director of the ship, which had yet to leave Miami. He, in turn, arranged to have Norwegian's transfer company pick up the bags and rush them to the vessel before it departed.

When the family finally boarded the ship, Norwegian Escape, two days later, the bags were there in the family's room. Speaking of the room, LaBarre's contact on the ship had the family upgraded, too.

LaBarre said she had urged the family to fly to the port a day early and buy travel insurance. But they hadn't heeded her advice on either count.

"It all worked out, but with a lot of unnecessary stress and expense," she said.

Bottom line

It's not going to be easy to salvage your trip if you are late for your cruise departure. My advice is to always travel to the port of departure at least a day in advance of a cruise.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
15 ways cruisers waste money
12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Feature photo by d3sign/Getty Images.

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Plan Your Trip

What Happens When A Cruise Ship Leaves You

Published: December 13, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Mareah Kenney

Sustainability

Introduction

Embarking on a cruise vacation is an exciting and memorable experience. The anticipation builds as you board the luxurious ship, ready to set sail into the wide expanse of the ocean. However, amidst the joy and excitement, there is a lingering question that may cross your mind: what happens if the cruise ship leaves you behind?

While it may seem like a far-fetched scenario, cruise ships do occasionally depart without certain passengers on board. Whether due to unforeseen circumstances, delays, or passengers who simply lose track of time, being left behind can be a distressing and inconvenient situation.

In this article, we will explore the reasons why cruise ships may leave passengers behind, the consequences one may face if left behind, the rights and compensation available to affected passengers, as well as valuable tips on how to avoid being left behind on a cruise ship.

So, grab your life jackets and join us as we navigate through the intriguing world of cruise ship departures.

Why do cruise ships leave passengers?

There are several reasons why a cruise ship may depart without certain passengers. These reasons can range from technical issues to passenger negligence. Let’s delve into some of the common causes:

Delays: Cruise ships operate on strict schedules, and any delay can have a cascading effect on subsequent ports of call. If a passenger fails to board the ship on time, the captain may have no choice but to leave without them to ensure the itinerary is maintained.
Miscommunication: Sometimes, miscommunication between the passenger and the cruise line can lead to a missed departure. It’s essential for passengers to carefully read the embarkation information provided and follow any specific instructions regarding boarding times and locations.
Port authorities: In certain instances, the cruise ship may be required to leave port by a specific time, regardless of whether all passengers are on board. This can occur when the ship is subject to maritime regulations or has obtained a limited time slot at the port. Passengers who are late might find themselves stranded on the dock.
Unforeseen circumstances: Occasionally, unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies or security concerns may force the ship to depart without all passengers. These situations are rare but can arise to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone on board.

While the cruise line strives to accommodate all passengers, ensuring the safety and adherence to the published schedule often takes priority.

It is important to note that cruise ships have protocols in place, including mandatory safety drills and attendance checks, to account for all passengers. However, individual responsibility is crucial to avoid being left behind.

Consequences of being left behind

Being left behind on a cruise ship can have a range of consequences, both practical and emotional. Let’s take a look at some of the potential impacts:

Stranded in a foreign port: If a cruise ship departs without you, you may find yourself stranded in a foreign country. This can be a daunting experience, especially if you don’t speak the local language or are unfamiliar with the area.
Financial implications: Being left behind can lead to significant financial consequences. Not only will you need to arrange for alternate accommodations, transportation, and possibly meals, but you may also incur additional expenses to catch up with the cruise itinerary at the next port.
Missed experiences: One of the primary reasons people go on cruises is to explore different ports of call and participate in various activities and excursions. Being left behind means missing out on these unique experiences that you have paid for and were eagerly looking forward to.
Emotional distress: Being left behind can result in a range of negative emotions, including frustration, anger, disappointment, and even embarrassment. It can be a disruptive and emotionally challenging experience, particularly if you were traveling with friends or family.
Logistical challenges: Being left behind means you will need to make arrangements to catch up with the cruise ship at the next port. This can involve navigating travel logistics, coordinating with the cruise line, and potentially facing additional time and effort to rejoin the cruise.

It is important to remember that the consequences will depend on various factors, including the location, duration of the cruise, and how quickly you can make alternative arrangements. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers such incidents to help mitigate some of the financial burdens that may arise.

Next, let’s explore the rights and compensation available to passengers who are left behind on a cruise ship.

Rights and compensation for passengers left behind

If you find yourself left behind on a cruise ship, it’s essential to know your rights and what compensation you may be entitled to. While the specific rights and compensation can vary depending on the cruise line and the circumstances, here are some general guidelines:

Reimbursement or compensation: Cruise lines may offer reimbursement or compensation for expenses incurred as a result of being left behind. This can include costs related to accommodation, meals, transportation to the next port, and any missed activities or excursions.
Assistance with arrangements: The cruise line should provide assistance in making alternative travel arrangements to catch up with the ship at the next port. This can include helping with flights, transfers, and providing guidance on joining the cruise at the earliest opportunity.
Possible refunds or future cruise credits: Depending on the circumstances, the cruise line may offer partial or full refunds for the missed portion of the cruise. In some cases, they may also provide future cruise credits as a gesture of goodwill.
Travel insurance coverage: If you have travel insurance, review your policy to determine if it covers incidents like being left behind on a cruise ship. Travel insurance can help mitigate some of the financial burdens associated with alternative arrangements and the missed portion of the trip.
Legal rights: In certain cases, passengers may have legal rights to compensation beyond what the cruise line offers. It is advisable to seek legal advice to understand your specific rights and options for pursuing further compensation if necessary.

It’s important to communicate with the cruise line as soon as possible if you are left behind. Document the incident, keep receipts for any expenses incurred, and maintain open and clear communication with the cruise line’s customer service department to ensure your concerns are addressed.

However, it’s worth noting that the rights and compensation provided may vary depending on the specific circumstances and the terms and conditions outlined in your cruise ticket contract. Therefore, it’s crucial to thoroughly review the terms and contact the cruise line for specific information.

Now let’s explore some valuable tips on how to avoid being left behind on a cruise ship.

Tips for avoiding being left behind on a cruise ship

While being left behind on a cruise ship can be a distressing situation, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk. Follow these tips to help ensure you don’t find yourself stranded on the dock:

Arrive early: It’s crucial to arrive at the embarkation port well before the designated boarding time. Aim to arrive at least a few hours in advance to allow for any unexpected delays or traffic.
Double-check departure times: Always double-check the scheduled departure time of the cruise ship. Mark it on your calendar, set reminders, and ensure you are aware of any changes or updates that might occur.
Follow the cruise line’s instructions: Read and follow the embarkation instructions provided by the cruise line carefully. Pay attention to the assigned boarding location and any specific requirements for check-in.
Keep important documents and identification handy: Have your passport, boarding pass, and any other necessary identification documents readily accessible. Keep them in a secure yet easily accessible place.
Participate in safety drills: Attend the mandatory safety drills without fail. This not only ensures your safety but also helps familiarize you with the ship’s procedures and increases the chances of you being accounted for during attendance checks.
Stay connected: Keep your mobile phone fully charged and ensure you have access to the ship’s communication channels. This way, you can receive any updates or last-minute announcements from the cruise line.
Be aware of time changes: Pay attention to time zone changes if you are sailing to different regions. Adjust your watches and clocks accordingly to avoid confusion and ensure you are aware of the correct departure time in each port.
Travel with a trusted group: If possible, travel with a group of friends or family members. This way, you can help keep each other accountable for boarding times and ensure everyone is present before the ship departs.
Stay informed: Regularly check for updates from the cruise line regarding any changes in the itinerary, boarding times, or safety procedures. Stay informed to avoid any surprises or last-minute changes.

By following these tips, you can greatly reduce the risk of being left behind on a cruise ship and enjoy your vacation worry-free.

Now, let’s conclude our exploration of what happens when a cruise ship leaves you.

Embarking on a cruise ship journey is a thrilling adventure, but the possibility of being left behind can dampen the excitement. Understanding the reasons why ships may depart without certain passengers, the consequences of being left behind, and the rights and compensation available is essential for every traveler.

While being left behind can have financial and emotional repercussions, it’s crucial to remember that cruise lines have protocols in place to account for all passengers and minimize the occurrence of such incidents. However, individual responsibility plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth and worry-free vacation.

By following tips such as arriving early, double-checking departure times, and staying informed, you can significantly reduce the risk of being left behind and avoid the logistical challenges and emotional distress associated with it.

In the unfortunate event of being left behind, understanding your rights and seeking appropriate compensation is of utmost importance. Consult the cruise line, review your travel insurance policy, and seek legal advice if necessary to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Remember, a cruise vacation should be a time of relaxation, exploration, and enjoyment. By taking proactive measures and staying mindful of the embarkation process, you can minimize the likelihood of being left behind and have a memorable cruise experience.

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If Your Cruise Ship Leaves You Behind At a Stop, Here's What You Should Do Next

Jul. 14 2023, Published 2:36 p.m. ET

Going on a cruise can be a thrilling way to travel all over the world, but there are things you should be mindful of before you set sail. Perhaps the most important is that, when you stop at a destination for the day, you have to make sure you're back on the ship before the scheduled departure time.

If you aren't, your cruise will leave you behind, and then you'll be in a rough spot. If you do get left behind, though, there are some steps you can take to make sure you don't get stranded forever.

What happens if a cruise ship leaves you behind?

If a cruise ship leaves you behind, the first thing you should do is locate a port agent. Port agents are typically stationed at the ports near where your ship was supposed to depart from. If cruisers are late getting back to their ship, a cruise may even remove essential items like passports and wallets from the ship so that you have them. Port agents can help you get in contact with your ship or make other travel arrangements.

Additionally, you should start making phone calls to your cruise ship or your cruise line's customer service department. Once you've gotten through, try to make travel arrangements so that the ship can meet you at their next port of call.

If you can't get through to your cruise and you don't speak the local language, you can also call the US embassy wherever you are, and they can help you get in touch with the cruise or arrange travel home.

Generally speaking, if your cruise ship leaves you behind you'll have to arrange for travel either to another port of call or to get home. Depending on where you're stranded, this can be easy or fairly difficult, but it's an important part of planning if you want to continue the cruise or at the very least get home. If you decide to go home, your cruise line can ship you the belongings you left in your room, but it might not be all that cheap.

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How often do cruise ships leave passengers behind?

Cruises don't leave passengers behind all that often, but it does happen. The captain is the one who ultimately makes the final call, and ships usually wait for at least a half hour before leaving passengers behind.

If, however, you are late because of an excursion you booked through the cruise line, the ship will always wait for you, because there are likely others who are also late for the same reason.

Passengers should know that cruises don't usually leave people behind, but also be aware that it is a possibility. As a result, they should plan to take precautions to make sure that they arrive back on the ship with plenty of time to spare. There's no reason to risk it, especially when it almost always leads to many extra expenses.

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Cruise Advice

What Happens When You Miss The Cruise Ship?

Richard Simms

October 22, 2018

It’s the nightmare of every cruiser: Being left behind as the cruise ship sets sail without them. And while we all know it happens, what we might not be quite so aware of is what happens next.

How does a ship make the decision to leave someone behind? And when that happens, is the passenger due a refund?

How Cruise Passengers Wind Up Being Left Behind

We’ve all seen them. The “runners,” sprinting down the pier to get back to the ship before it leaves the port. Maybe they stayed at Senor Frogs a little too long, or did a little too much shopping. But for whatever reason, they’re running late… and flat-out running down that pier as their fellow passengers — usually with drinks in hand — lean over railings or sit on balconies to cheer (and jeer) their progress.

Most of the time, the runners make it back to the ship on time, even if just barely. But every now and then, someone gets left behind. And it’s safe to say that when that happens, they aren’t exactly happy about the situation.

But it’s equally safe to say that this isn’t a situation the cruise line is happy about either, as it always results in an unhappy passenger who will no doubt take their complaints to social media and perhaps even the press… even if, in the vast majority of cases, the cruiser is likely to be the one with whom the fault lies.

How To Avoid Being Left Behind

1. Keep an eye on the time. This may sound like pretty basic advice, but you’d be amazed how often people simply lose track of time or don’t leave themselves enough time to get back to the ship.

2. Make sure you’re on “ship time.” When you disembark, announcements will be made as to what time you need to be back on board. Where confusion sometimes sets in is when the port being visited is in a different time zone. Pay attention to whether the ship and the port of call are operating on the same time. Also, make sure that your iPhone or other devices didn’t automatically switch to the local time if the ship is not doing so.

3. Book excursions directly through the cruise line. Yes, you’ll likely pay more than you would if you booked an excursion independently or through an outside agency. And if you’re an experienced traveller or great at time management, go for it.

However, it’s worth noting that if for some reason, you are late getting back from an excursion booked through the cruise line, the ship will generally wait.

Why? Because they know where you are. When you book independently, that’s not the case.

For all the crew knows, you’ve found love with a local and decided that you are leaving everything you own behind and living in his hut on the beach from now on (or at least until you sober up).

That said, we freely admit to being gamblers who look for outside excursions in order to both save money and maybe find something a bit more exotic and off the beaten path. So far, we’ve never wound up running down that pier or being left behind… knock wood! But we know we’re taking a risk, and it’s one you have to think long and hard about when booking excursions.

What Happens Before The Ship Leaves?

In addressing this topic recently after a Carnival Cruise Line Ship departed a port minus one passenger, brand ambassador John Heald made it clear that the decision to leave without a cruiser is not made lightly. He also ran through the steps which are taken before the ship pulls anchor and leaves port. While the process varies a bit from line to line, the same basic steps are generally followed.

The procedure followed by Carnival ships, as explained by Heald, are:

1. The technology used to track which passengers are (and are not) on board is given a quick check.

2. The names of the missing passengers are announced over the ship’s PA system “just to see if they are on board,” Heald said, “and maybe their card did not register.”

3. If there’s still no indication that the passenger is on board, a second announcement is made, this time, Heald said, “through the general emergency system.” Both these announcements typically ask that the missing passenger or passengers get in touch with the Guest Services desk immediately.

4. If they have a contact telephone number for the passenger, the Guest Services manager will attempt to call it.

5. If at this point there’s still no sign of the passenger, that’s when things are stepped up a notch. Crew members (including someone from security) will check the cabin to make doubly sure the passenger isn’t there. “They will then look through the cabin and see if they can [find] any passports,” explained Heald, “and they will also use the one safe master key… to open the safe and retrieve” the passenger’s passport if it happens to be inside.

If passports aren’t found, it’s assumed that the guests have them and/or their official ID with them. But if the documents are found, they’re taken to the official ship’s agent (“We have one in every port of call,” Heald said.). Why? So that the passenger won’t be stranded in the port without their documents. Once the ship leaves, the guest has to decide whether to get themselves to the next port of call to rejoin the cruise, or head back to the port from which the cruise originated.

6. Perhaps most important is the caveat which Heald issued: “The guest is responsible for all fees,” he said, adding that, “it says this clearly in the cruise documents. The ship agent will help book hotels and flights, but yep, it is costly for sure!”

And then… well, the ship, having waited as long as it could, has no choice but to leave. “None of our captains ever want to leave people behind,” Heald declared. “However, he has 3,000 other guests to think of.”

Read More: What To Do If Your Cruise Ship Leaves You Behind

Do Cruisers Who Are Left Behind Deserve Refunds?

In a nutshell, no… and that fact is pretty specifically addressed in each cruise line’s contract. And while few people actually take the time to read the cruise contract, they all agree to its terms before stepping aboard any ship. While each cruise line’s contract is slightly different, they all cover the same territory.

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line’s basic contract contains the following verbiage regarding passengers being left behind:

“ Any Guest who fails to board the vessel one (1) hour prior to departure is at risk of being left at the port of embarkation or port of call. In such event, Carrier shall have the right without notice to depart without the Guest and Guest shall be fully responsible to pay for or indemnify the Carrier from all expenses incurred to rejoin the vessel at the next port or for his/her own return passage, including, but not limited to, government fees or fines, visa fees, subsistence, lodging, airfare, launch fare, car hire or agency fees… Further, in such event, the entire fare shall be deemed fully earned by Carrier and no portion thereof shall be recoverable by Guest.”

See that part about “government fees or fines?” That’s an important thing to note, because passengers who wind up left behind could incur some of those… and are completely responsible for paying them. The Royal Caribbean cruise contract spells it out thusly:

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OH NO – My Cruise Ship Left Port Without Me! So Now What?

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As you may have seen in hilarious (when it’s not you starring in them) YouTube videos, people choose to cut it dangerously close to all-aboard times when getting back to the pier. It results in guests running to the ship, which may or may not result in them actually making it on board. Even if the ship is still officially “at” the dock, if the gangway has already been closed, it could happen that they cannot join the ship until the next port. A few reasons behind it may include how long the gangway has been disconnected, how much longer the ship stayed at the pier waiting (which generates costs to the Cruise Line), and the timing to arrive at the next port. Regardless, some people luck out and make it back on board, properly scolded by the Staff Captain, of course. I’ve even seen extra lucky guests who were brought back onto the cruise ship by the Pilot Boat (HIGHLY unlikely btw so don’t plan for this to happen!). Others will have to meet the ship at the next port… or worse.

Let’s first start with the document side of this whole situation. Most people choose to leave their passports in the safe and go out only with a picture ID, like a Driver License or ID Card. THEY ARE RIGHT! Passports should NOT be brought along when going ashore, as losing them (or having them stolen) would create some huge inconvenience going back home, or out at the rest of the ports. The only reason someone should consider bringing their passport with them is if it IS required, since an immigration process will be in place in order to go ashore (as it was in St. Petersburg, or Istanbul a long time ago), or if they will make a big purchase and will require the documentation in order to get the tax return papers. Otherwise, leave passports in the safe in your room !

The first thing that will happen when it’s time to leave and you haven’t swiped your room key card to come onboard is an announcement will be made, in order to rule out a miss-swipe, that is, you are onboard but the computer did not register you correctly. If there is no response, and the time has come to disconnect the gangway, the Port Agent will be contacted, Security will open your safe , collect your passports, they’ll be handed to the Port Agent, and he or she will be waiting for you at the pier.

As soon as you finish completely freaking out and calm down a little, the Port Agent will help you book a hotel, get flights to the next port, and provide any transportation needed within the town. All of this, OF COURSE, is at the guest’s expense.

With a little luck, the next port the ship will arrive at is a place you can fly to (as opposed to, for example, a private island), it’s a place you don’t need a visa for (again, St. Petersburg, …), or it’s not a few sea days away, which would drive up the expenses in the meantime.

Given the situation, in the best of cases, you’ll rejoin the ship and continue enjoying your cruise. In the not-so-good cases, you might have to go through a separate immigration process upon your arrival, pay a fine if US or Greek ports were involved (due to Jones Act), or not be able to come back on board at all. This would happen if the port you were left at was the last one before the end of the cruise. In these cases, the Guest Service team will be in charge of packing up all your belongings, with the proper inventory of every item, and have them ready for you at the pier. Not ideal, but at least you saved yourself from the chore of packing yourself! Still, maybe not the best way to end your cruising experience.

The best ways to avoid risking situations like this will be to, obviously, allow enough time before all-aboard time to come back on board, or to take the Shore Excursions organized by the Cruise Line itself, which would guarantee that, regardless of anything, the ship will be waiting for you. This is a particularly good idea if the pier is far away from the main attractions, where independent transportation isn´t readily available. – ThatGuy

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Will a Cruise Ship Leave Without You? (Tip: Don’t Be Late)

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Embarking on a cruise vacation is an exciting adventure, but one question remains: will a cruise ship leave without you?

Whether you’re having a good time exploring the port of call and lose track of time, are stuck on a bus, or are on a delayed flight on embarkation day, will the cruise ship wait for you?

The thought of getting left behind in a foreign port is undoubtedly concerning, especially for first-time cruisers. While the chances of this happening are low, it’s essential to know that, yes, a cruise ship can leave without you.

The chances of getting left behind are low, but it can happen if you’re not careful.

Cruise ships operate on a carefully planned schedule, and even if you’re just a few minutes late, the vessel may depart without you. Getting left behind might sound daunting, but being mindful of the time and planning your day can significantly minimize the risk of any mishaps.

Table of Contents

Will a Cruise Ship Leave Without You?

Yes, a cruise ship can leave without you if you’re not back on board by the scheduled departure time.

It’s important always to be aware of the ship’s departure time and manage your activities accordingly. Sometimes, people lose track of time when having fun at a port of call, delaying their return to the ship.

Arriving late to the ship can be costly, as it may require you to make alternative travel arrangements to catch up with the cruise at the next port. You might need to pay out of pocket for flights, accommodations, and other expenses.

To avoid this situation, it’s a good idea to set an alarm and leave plenty of time when you return to the cruise ship.

When on an excursion, it’s essential to pay attention to the return time for your tour. If you book your shore excursion through the cruise line, they generally ensure the trip returns before the ship’s departure time.

However, when taking independent tours, it’s crucial to account for potential delays due to traffic or other unforeseen circumstances.

While it might be tempting to push the limits to make the most of your time at a port, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and ensure that you return to the ship well before the scheduled departure.

Ensuring your return to the ship on time eliminates the unexpected stress and expenses of missing the boat.

Will a Cruise Ship Wait For You If You’re Late?

Passengers returning to the MSC Orchestra after a day at the cruise port of Venice Italy

There are some circumstances when a cruise ship will wait for you if you’re late. But we don’t recommend testing your luck.

If you booked a shore excursion through the cruise line, the cruise ship will wait for you if the tour runs late.

Tours offered by the cruise line are scheduled to arrive with plenty of time for passengers to board the ship. But medical emergencies, traffic, and other unexpected events can create delays.

The promise of not being left behind is one reason we recommend booking shore excursions through the cruise line.

If you booked your tour through a private company, the cruise line doesn’t need to wait for you if the tour runs late.

Why Cruise Ships Leave Without Passengers

Cruise ships operate on a strict schedule to ensure a smooth experience for you and your fellow passengers. Timely arrivals and departures at each port are crucial to maintain this schedule.

When a guest is late to the ship, the captain has a decision to make.

The captain may decide to wait and delay departure to give the late passenger a chance to make their way back to the ship.

But how long can they afford to wait?

Cruise ships may be charged higher docking fees if they stay late in port.

The cruise ship may also need to travel faster to reach the next port on time. The faster speed burns more gas costing the cruise line a lot of money.

Tide conditions may also affect the captain’s decision to wait for late passengers. If the tide is running out, there may not be time to wait because the ship could be stranded during low tide.

The captain will decide to wait or leave the late passengers behind depending on the factors above.

How Late Can You Board a Cruise Ship?

You can board a cruise ship as long as the gangway is still in place. If the captain decides to wait, the gangway will remain open.

Once the gangway retracts, you won’t be allowed back on the ship.

I’ve witnessed several passengers standing on the dock pleading with the ship to roll out the gangway. Unfortunately, once the cruise ship begins departure protocols, there’s no chance of getting back on the cruise vessel.

You may have seen videos of late passengers running down the dock, hoping to return to the ship before the gangway retracts.

Cheering on the “ pier runners ” from the top deck is a favorite pastime of passengers.

Funniest Pier Runner Drama | Angry Passengers Missing Cruise Ships

Steps to Avoid Missing Your Cruise Ship

Woman standing on the dock with an MSC Cruises cruise ship in the background

No, you know the risks of returning late to the cruise ship. There are several steps you can take to avoid missing your ship.

Make Sure Your Phone is Set to Ship Time

Always update your phone to the ship’s time before you leave the cruise ship.

Your itinerary may take you through several time zones.

But your cruise ship may operate at a different time than the local time zone. Setting your phone and watch to the ship time is important so you won’t miss the ship’s departure.

By setting your clock to ship time, you can keep track of time throughout your trip and ensure you are punctual for all onboard events and port departures.

You can find the cruise ship time in your cruise line’s mobile app, daily activities planner, or guest services.

Set an Alarm

If you’re worried about the cruise ship leaving without you, setting an alarm is a good idea.

While spending the day in port, it’s easy to lose track of time.

Setting your alarm is an excellent way to ensure you don’t forget about boarding the cruise ship. And make sure you’re back onboard before the ship leaves.

If you are unsure of the all-aboard time, double-check your itinerary or ask the onboard information desk for the exact time.

Take a Cruise-Sponsored Shore Excursion

When you book a shore excursion through the cruise line, the ship will always wait for you if there are any unexpected delays.

Booking your shore excursion through the cruise line ensures you will not be left behind even if your tour runs late.

If there’s a reason the captain absolutely cannot wait for you to return to the ship, the cruise line is responsible for paying for your transportation to the next port.

Plus, the tour operators are familiar with the ship’s schedule and will make an effort to get you back on time.

You may save money booking your shore excursions through a third party or directly through the tour company, but the cruise ships may not wait for you if your tour runs late.

Avoid consuming excessive alcohol during shore excursions, as it may impair your judgment and sense of time. Staying sober will ensure that you are aware of your surroundings and can accurately keep track of the time, and you don’t forget to make your way back to the ship.

Bring a Map

Carry a map of the port city, and note where your ship is docked.

It’s easy to get lost in an unfamiliar place, especially if it’s your first time visiting the port of call.

Carrying a map helps you navigate back to the ship and minimizes the chance of getting lost.

Pro tip: Keep a photocopy of your passport, driver’s license, and credit cards with you, as well as your ship’s phone number and travel insurance information. You can safely store your essential passports, ID, and credit cards in your cabin’s safe.

Fly to Your Departure Port The Day Before Your Cruise

The tips above are useful for ensuring you don’t miss your cruise ship at a port of call.

But what about missing your ship altogether?

If you’re flying into your cruise departure port, a flight delay could make you late for the cruise ship.

To minimize the risk of missing your cruise due to flight delays, consider arriving at your departure port a day before your cruise departs. By flying in early, you’ll ease some of the travel stress and give yourself enough time to deal with any potential flight issues or unforeseen complications.

Of course, flying in the day before your cruise does incur extra costs, like your hotel stay and meals. But the hotel cost is worth it when you consider the cost of potentially missing your cruise.

What to Do If You Miss the Ship

Rhapsody of the Seas sailing in the Caribbean

When you miss your cruise ship, it can be a distressing experience.

But don’t panic.

There are several steps you can take to remedy the situation. And it may not be the end of your cruise vacation.

If you’re in the Caribbean, you can arrange an interisland flight to the next port of call and catch up with the cruise ship.

If you’re in Europe, you might be able to reach the next port of call by train or car.

This section discusses what to do if you’re stranded in a port without your cruise ship.

Find a Port Agent

The first thing you need to do is find the port agent. A port agent is the local representative of the cruise line and will help you figure out your options.

Contact details for the port agent are usually provided in the daily cruise newsletter, but most people don’t note the contact information.

You can ask the port staff for assistance.

When the cruise line realizes you won’t return to the ship on time, they will enter your stateroom and attempt to retrieve your essential belongings (medication, cell phone, passports, and travel documents).

The cruise line’s staff leaves your belongings with the port agent to give to you when you return to the dock.

Locating the Nearest Embassy or Consulate

Locating the nearest embassy or consulate in your home country is essential in emergencies, like losing your passport or needing legal assistance. The embassy or consulate can assist you with making travel plans, confirming your identity, and providing legal counseling.

The embassy or consulate can also provide valuable information about your rights and resources as a stranded traveler.

Make Travel Arrangements

Once you have assessed the situation, you must make travel arrangements to meet the ship at the next port of call.

Depending on the distance between ports, you may need to take a plane, train, bus, or car.

It’s essential to act quickly, as seats can fill up fast. Contact an experienced travel agent to help you find the best options to reconnect with your cruise.

Alternatively, your travel insurance provider can also assist you in finding suitable travel solutions.

Be prepared to pay for any travel-related expenses.

Retrieve Your Belongings

If you decide to return home instead of meeting up with the cruise ship, you’ll want to retrieve your belongings.

Cruise lines will ship your luggage and belongings back to you, but the service is costly.

Try to Relax

Missing your cruise ship is undoubtedly frustrating and stressful. However, remember that you are still on vacation. Make the most of your unplanned time in port by exploring the sights or unwinding at a local cafe.

Even though the situation is less-than-ideal, try to maintain a friendly and positive attitude. Eventually, you’ll reunite with your ship, and you can continue enjoying your cruise vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get off your cruise ship and stay.

Yes, getting off the cruise ship early and staying in a port of call is possible.

Whether or not it’s allowed depends on several factors, including the cruise line policies, countries you visiting, and port regulations.

Cruises departing from the US are subject to the Passenger Vessel Services Act. You may receive a fine if you stay in a US port without first stopping in a foreign cruise port.

Cruises departing in Europe don’t have this restriction.

However, it’s important to remember that you won’t get a discount on the cruise if you plan on leaving early. And you must let your cruise line know of your plan to leave the sailing before the end of the cruise.

How often do cruise ships leave passengers behind?

Although relatively rare, cruise ships occasionally leave passengers behind if they don’t return to the vessel in time for departure. It’s essential to follow the ship’s schedule and allow yourself enough time to get back on board so the cruise ship doesn’t leave you behind.

How long will a cruise ship wait for you?

A cruise ship typically sets an “all-aboard” time, usually around 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The all-aboard time is a buffer, giving passengers a little extra time to return to the ship.

However, you shouldn’t rely on this grace period, as there’s no guarantee that the ship will wait beyond the all-aboard time. Any decision to wait for late passengers is up to the ship’s captain.

Will a Cruise Ship Wait for You If You’re on a Shore Excursion?

Cruise lines will wait for you if you book excursions through the cruise line. However, if you’ve arranged your excursion through an independent tour company, the ship may not wait, and you’ll need to make sure you return on time to avoid being left behind.

What if you miss the cruise due to a delayed flight?

If you miss your cruise departure due to a delayed flight, you’ll need to make alternative arrangements to meet the ship at its next port of call. It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers missed cruise departures and additional expenses.

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What to Do if You are Late Back for Your Cruise Ship and How to Avoid It

Cruise Tips & Advice

16 September, 2022 0 Comments 2625 Views

To watch your cruise ship disappear into the sea with all your belongings and documents on board is a nightmare for every traveler. You are likely to have seen passengers running along the cruise ship’s ladder right before the cruise ship’s departure as a result of being late while other passengers who have already been on board are mocking them. However, not everyone is so lucky. Mistakes may happen even if you have planned everything carefully. In case you turned out to be still far from your port of call while your cruise ship is sailing it is not the end of the world so far.

This article will give you some pieces of advice on how not to be late for your ship and what to do if it has already happened.

Note: whether your cruise ship waits for the late passengers or not depends on a number of factors including the port schedule, quantity of passengers who are late, and even the captain’s mood. The procedures of interaction with the latecomers differ on different cruise ships.

How to Avoid Being Late for Your Cruise Ship?

There are some general hacks that we will go into detail about.

Take into account the change of time zones.

Being on a cruise you should not neglect the time difference. Follow the announcements on board and read the cruise newspaper to be informed when to turn your clock back or forward. It happens almost every night on some itineraries and it is easy to get confused. The cruise ship time and the local time may differ as well. Make sure that you know exactly when you have to return to your cruise ship (it is better to write it down or take the cruise newspaper with you) besides, it is very important to check what arrival time is meant (local time or the cruise ship time if they differ). Don’t forget to keep track of time regularly watching your clock when ashore. It is especially difficult if you have preliminarily ordered too much Pina Colada. Set the alarm on your telephone to know exactly the time when you should start moving toward the port.

Choose shore excursions carefully

If you are late for your cruise ship because of an excursion ordered onboard the ship will wait for you or your costs incurred as a result of transportation to the next port of call will be covered. If you order a private excursion and are late as a result of which it still does not mean that the ship would leave the port without you. It depends on the number of passengers who are late too, and yet, there are no guarantees that your cruise ship would not leave without you. If you decide to take advantage of the third-party offer you should plan your time with a significant reserve in case of traffic jams and other unexpected situations. Ensure that your guide is punctual and set the goal to return on board an hour or two in advance rather than some minutes before the cruise ship's departure when all the passengers have been already on board.

Be Prepared

We hope that you will never face an unpleasant situation when you miss your cruise ship and yet it is always better safe than sorry. That is why it is useful to read the information given below.

Keep all the necessary important information

Leaving your cruise ship on arrival at the port of call you should take with you a copy of your passport, credit card, and driver’s license and write down the telephone of your cruise ship, the port agent (it can be found in the daily newspaper that is brought every day to your cabin), and service department of the cruise line. In addition, you have to know the phone numbers and the address of your country’s Embassy in the city you are visiting. Contacts of your travel agent and your insurance company’s hotline information can be useful as well. You should keep this information in your wallet or in the bag which you are unlikely to lose. It will be of immense help if you are suddenly late back for your cruise ship.

What to Do if You are Late for Your Cruise Ship

If an unpleasant situation happened and your cruise ship left the port without you the following steps should be taken.

Find a port agent

Most cruise lines have their cruise agents in all the ports of call, so they will help you if you are late for your cruise ship. Very often, members of the crew give the necessities of latecomers such as passports, mobile phones, and medicine to port agents. Besides, they can help you to contact your cruise ship and advise you of the next steps.

Make phone calls

Take the list of contacts that we have already mentioned above and contact your cruise ship first to inform them where you currently are and in what port of call you are going to catch up with your ship. Then, it is worth contacting the customer support service of your cruise line or your travel agent, informing them about what happened to you, and consulting whether they can help you to book accommodation and transport. In case you do not have your passport, can not contact your cruise ship, and do not speak the language of the country where you missed your ship to ask for help you should call the Embassy or show its address to a taxi driver for him to take you there (during its working hours, of course). Embassy personnel will help you to take subsequent steps and contact those who can deliver you to your cruise ship or take you home.

Organizing your trip to the next port of call

If you miss your cruise ship you will have to decide whether to catch it up in one of the next ports of call in your itinerary or go home. Your cruise line, travel agent, or insurance company will help you to adjust your plans, moreover, you can do it yourself. In the latter case, you will have to bear all the expenses yourself; a credit card will be useful in this case if it has not been left on board, of course. Besides, that is why we recommend that you always have a photocopy of your passport with you.

Take care of your belongings

If you take a decision to return home rather than catch up with your cruise ship in the next port of call you should remember that your personal belongings have been still on board. The cruise line will be able to send it to you but it will cost you a pretty penny.

Trying to relax

Even if you find yourself in a tricky situation remember that you have been still on your vacation. If you still have free time after you have found out what to do, we recommend that you spend it with the benefit of discovering tourist attractions located nearby and tasting local cuisine. Do you have to stay in port for a night? It is not a problem as well because you will have a chance to experience the local nightlife. When on board you won’t have an opportunity to do it for sure.

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Welcome to Consumer Rescue

Fiascos and Fixes

Why did the cruise ship leave me behind? I only needed a blood transfusion!

Michelle Couch-Friedman

Consumer reporter and ombudsman

May 5, 2023

If you suffer a sudden medical emergency during a cruise, could the ship leave you behind in a foreign country? Much to his dismay, NCL passenger Andrew Goldstein found out that the answer is ‘yes.’

During his last cruise aboard Norwegian’s Breakaway, the medical team informed him that he required an immediate blood transfusion. Unable to provide such a service on the ship, the cruise line sent him to the hospital on St. Kitts. But when Goldstein tried to reboard the cruise ship hours later, NCL denied him boarding.

The Breakaway sailed away without him.

Goldstein’s tale is an unfortunate example of why all travelers should be certain to assess their need for travel insurance — before they find themselves in a medical emergency abroad. He wants a refund for his missed cruise and reimbursement for his additional travel and medical expenses. But is this a reasonable request?

Feeling unwell on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway

Goldstein was on a 14-day Caribbean cruise when he began feeling unwell. He visited the ship’s medical center. The staff advised him that he needed to have an EKG and a blood test. He refused both and returned to his cabin.

Still feeling ill the next day, he revisited the medical center.

“I agreed to have the tests that I opted not to have done the prior evening,” he told us. “But in addition to these two tests, the staff did a lot more without my consent.”

NCL: “We can’t give you a blood transfusion on the ship.”

Later that evening, Goldstein received his blood test results, and it became clear he needed further treatment.

“The doctor told me that my hemoglobin was very low (less than 6) and that I needed a blood transfusion,” Goldstein recalled. “He said the hospital in St. Kitts should do it the following day.”

The next morning, an NCL crew member escorted him off the ship and to the hospital in St. Kitts. There, the hospital staff told Goldstein that it would take two days for the correct blood to arrive for his transfusion. Unwilling to wait for this treatment and not pleased with the quality of the medical facility, he checked himself out. Then he took a taxi back to the port.

“I could see that the cruise ship was preparing to leave without me!” Goldstein recalled.

Relieved that he had made it just in time, Goldstein rushed out of the taxi. But as he attempted to board the ship, NCL’s medical team quickly informed him that he could not complete the cruise. Neither the local hospital nor the medical personnel on the Breakaway would clear him for further travel.

Stunned but left with no other option, Goldstein made his own arrangements and flew home from St. Kitts.

Convinced that NCL had improperly denied him reboarding the ship, he asked the cruise line for reimbursement for all his expenses.

Could NCL have provided a blood transfusion?

When I read Goldstein’s complaint, his lofty expectation of how the medical center on the Breakaway should have handled his self-described “serious medical condition” surprised me. He told me:

Clearly, the best and safest option would have been if the cruise line allowed me to stay in my cabin. NCL could have easily found a A blood donor(s) for A+ blood on The Breakaway and the medical center could have done the transfusion. I could taken iron supplements, eaten iron-rich foods, and rested a lot. I would have then been in stable condition when I arrived in New York City. There was no need for the cruise ship to leave without me — and abandon me in a foreign country.

Regular readers of my column know that I’m always ready to go to bat for a consumer who has a problem with a cruise line.

This is how a consultant’s mistake made them miss their cruise.
I flew to New Zealand and got denied boarding my $8,154 NCL cruise

But in this situation, I could not. Expecting NCL to search for a suitable blood donor, do all the required laboratory testing of the blood, and perform a transfusion aboard the ship in a nonemergency situation wasn’t reasonable.

Goldstein’s complaint letters to NCL accused the doctor and captain of the Breakaway of making “very bad decisions.” He said that the decision to allow the cruise ship to leave without him put his life in danger. He demanded that the cruise line send him his refund and reimbursements “by overnight mail — within one week.”

Cruise ship passengers need travel insurance

The hostile nature of Goldstein’s letters to NCL likely alienated him from any executive who may have read his complaint. As I point out in my article about getting good customer service , this type of aggressive strategy rarely ends in a consumer victory. And it wasn’t successful for Goldstein either.

If Goldstein had purchased a good travel insurance policy, it could have covered all of his expenses associated with the cruise ship leaving without him — including his medical expenses and his evacuation from St. Kitts. The trip insurance company could have made all of his return travel arrangements for him — alleviating much of his anxiety.

But Goldstein did not purchase any travel insurance for this trip. That was a mistake – but not an uncommon one.

From the many requests for help that my Advocacy team receives, we know that a significant number of cruisers are unaware of the precarious nature of cruising without travel insurance. These travelers are shocked to discover that most health insurance policies aren’t valid internationally (including Medicare — unless you have purchased additional supplements).

Can you cruise with Medicare? She has a painful warning to share.

If you choose to travel internationally without a valid insurance policy and you get injured or become ill abroad, the expenses will be all yours — as Goldstein found out. And make no mistake, even if the cruise line could have provided the blood transfusion, the price would have been astronomical. Medical treatment on board a cruise ship is shockingly expensive.

The cruise was forced to leave without you for medical reasons.

In its response letter to Goldstein, NCL explained that:

Please understand that guests who leave the ship early for personal or medical reasons are not entitled to a cruise refund, as stated in our brochure and contract of passage. Although our records show you did not purchase the passenger protection program offered by Norwegian Cruise Line, if you purchased travel insurance through an independent agency you may wish to file a claim with your insurance carrier for the days you were ill, and also for your out of pocket expenses.

I reviewed the terms and conditions that NCL is referencing. In the section entitled “Refusal of Passage” I found the pertinent information for Goldstein’s case:

NCL reserves the right to decline to accept or retain any person as a passenger on the cruise at any time. NCL shall not be required to refund any portion of the fare paid by any passenger who must leave the ship prematurely, nor shall it be responsible for lodging, medical care expenses, meals, return transportation or other expenses incurred by the passenger.

When I explained why our team could not successfully mediate his case with NCL, Goldstein reiterated that if the cruise line had just left him in his cabin to relax, he would have been fine.

Perhaps — but what if his condition had worsened at sea? There is no way anyone, not even Goldstein, could have predicted the course that his illness would take. And a cruise ship medical center is not the place you want to find yourself in a real medical emergency.

The bottom line: If a cruise ship must leave without you because you need a blood transfusion, we can’t help

NCL pointed out to Goldstein:

Please note that the shipboard medical facility is equipped to provide basic medical care; we cannot offer care for conditions requiring specialized expertise or equipment.

…Like a blood transfusion on the cruise ship.

Our advocacy team receives many letters from consumers who want to invoke the benefits of a good travel insurance policy even though they did not purchase one. Unfortunately, we can’t help in these cases. What we can do is continue to stress how beneficial travel insurance can be when faced with unexpected illnesses and accidents — before and during your travels.

The bottom line is that if your cruise ship must leave without you because you need advanced medical care, we can’t mediate a refund, unfortunately.

Hopefully, his story will serve as a reminder to future travelers. Even if you think you are healthy and strong, you may want to consider travel insurance. A good policy will protect you against life’s unanticipated calamities. And that’s exactly the purpose of travel insurance.

How to make sure that you have the proper insurance coverage before your next trip abroad

Call your health insurance company: The first thing you’ll want to do is call your health insurance company and find out if you have any coverage for the destinations on your itinerary. If your trip is international, the answer is likely that you do not. However, if you do have international coverage, ask for a copy of that part of your policy (in writing). Make sure you understand how to use your insurance abroad. In most cases, if you’re injured or become sick internationally, you will need to pay the bill upfront and submit the receipts to your insurance company. And don’t forget those receipts are required for reimbursement. (See: Hurt on vacation? Don’t make this insurance mistake .)
Shop for travel insurance: If you find that your health insurance policy does not cover medical treatment abroad, you’ll need to go shopping for a trip insurance policy. InsureMyTrip can help make your travel insurance shopping easy . On that site, you can enter your personal details, and you’ll be provided with a variety of policies from various companies. Carefully read through all the types of coverage and determine what best meets your needs. Remember, if you have a preexisting condition, you’ll need to call the insurance provider directly to make sure that you are purchasing the proper policy. (* InsureMyTrip is an affiliate partner of Consumer Rescue. If you purchase insurance through that link, we may receive a small commission. This comes at no cost to you. Note: I have been recommending InsureMyTrip to travelers for years – long before this affiliation. It is a service I find very useful.)
Read through the entire travel insurance contract: Travel insurance can be confusing. Those policies contain pages and pages of details. Consumers need to read through every part of that contract to ensure that they’re purchasing something that meets their needs. But the good news is that every travel insurance policy sold in the U.S. comes with a 10-14 day lookover period. That gives the traveler plenty of time to thoroughly read the entire document. Remember, most policies sold today are “named perils” policies. That means only events that are specifically named in the document are covered. So make sure that everything you want to be covered is included. If it isn’t, you can ask for a refund in that lookover period and make an alternative choice.
Keep in mind what a good travel insurance policy covers : One last thing to remember, medical treatment is not the only thing to consider when you decide if you need travel insurance. A comprehensive travel insurance policy can also cover you if you need to be evacuated from your trip, if you lose your job before your vacation, if a travel provider becomes insolvent , and for a multitude of other unexpected situations. So it’s imperative to think about your entire picture when you consider your need for travel insurance. (Michelle Couch-Friedman, Consumer Rescue)

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Social media erupts in fierce debate over whether cruise ship was right to abandon late passengers: ‘they know the rules’.

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A fiery debate has sparked after a cruise denied eight passengers to board the ship after they failed to make the 3 pm cut-off time.

The Norwegian Dawn ship left the tourists on an African island , some without their possessions after the private tour they were on ran late.

The group have now made their way by plane, ferry and car to Senegal, over 2,000 miles from São Tomé and Príncipe, where the Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) ship departed without them last Wednesday.

US couple Jill and Jay Campbell, who were among the abandoned eight cruisers have spent more than $7,000 in travel costs to get to the port in Senegal.

“We truly believe that although there’s a set of rules or policies that the ship follows, they follow those rules too rigidly,” Ms. Campbell told NBC’s the Today Show on Tuesday.

“They really forgot that they are people working in the hospitality industry and that the safety is and the wellbeing of their customers should be the first priority and that should be placed first.

“It was a basic duty of care that they have forgotten about. It does concern us.”

Adam Glezer from Consumer Champion told news.com.au it was “ridiculous” the passengers, including a pregnant woman and someone who has a heart condition, weren’t allowed back on — even though the Norwegian Dawn was still at anchor and a São Tomé coastguard took the group on tenders to the vessel.

“Each situation has to be treated on an individual basis — especially the passenger without their medication,” he said.

He said despite the rules, “you need flexibility in situations like this.”

Keep up with The Post's coverage of the Norwegian Cruise debacle

Eight Norwegian Cruise passengers, including a pregnant woman and an elderly man with a heart condition, were stranded on an African island without money and vital medications after the vessel left port without them.
A spokesperson for the cruise line claimed the passengers were left on the island “on their own or with a private tour” and missed the “all-aboard time” by over an hour, according to the company.
Americans Jill Campbell and her husband, Jay Campbell, said they are unsure whether they even want to resume the 20-day voyage after Norwegian Cruise Lines forgot about its “basic duty of care.”
The eight passengers raced through seven different countries over a span of 48 hours to make it to Senegal, where the ship docked Tuesday morning,
Doug and Violeta Sanders, a stranded Australian couple, have spoken out about their ordeal , saying it was “the worst experience of our lives.”
Julie Lenkoff, 80, suffered a stroke during an excursion on the cruise — and was left “alone” and “helpless” to find her way back to the US, according to her family.
COLUMN: Cruise ship was right to ditch the late passengers in Africa

Check out The Post’s tips on what to do if you’re left stranded like the Norwegian Cruise passengers

Jim Walker, a Miami-based maritime lawyer, also called out the cruise liner, accusing it of “making a point by abandoning the guests” because they booked a tour that wasn’t through the cruise.

“The reality is that cruise lines aggressively promote cruise-sponsored shore excursions as a fundamental part of their business model, earning tens of millions of dollars a year in income,” he told news.com.au.

“To promote cruise-sponsored excursions where they receive as much as 50 to 60 percent of the profits, cruise lines state that if their guests paid for a cruise-sponsored excursion, as opposed to an independent excursion, the company will guarantee that if the extrusion is late in returning to the cruise ship, it will wait so that the guests are not abandoned ashore.

“In this particular case, it appears that NCL made a point of abandoning these guests simply because they were on an independent excursion.”

Mr. Walker said NCL’s conduct is not only “harsh and uncaring”, but he believes their act was “mean-spirited and vindictive in nature”.

The debacle has caused a huge divide online with some taking the side of the passengers, while others have defended the cruise’s move in leaving the passengers behind in São Tomé.

“Weird that the captain wouldn’t let them board if it was still in port?” one person wrote on Facebook.

“Don’t feel sorry for them they know the rules. It costs the ships a fortune if they don’t leave on time. We have watched people left behind before in Asia. Last trip to NZ there was a very close call also,” wrote another.

Other cruisers said being on time is a “simple” rule passengers need to follow, adding it’s why they only book tours through the ship.

“This is why you take a risk if you don’t go on a excursion you get through the ship Ruled need too be followed,” a third person wrote, while another added: “That’s why I would never take a cruise or organized tour ever, ever again, no freedom to do what you want, when you want.”

A TikToker and cruiser Candi Thomas unleashed on the passengers saying it was the responsibility of the passengers to make it back to the ship on time.

“For those of you who don’t cruise, let me tell you. Before you get off the ship there’s numerous announcements, You have it in your daily planning letter, there are signs … you have to be on board 60 to 90 minutes before that ship is departing,” she said.

The Campbells, from South Carolina, were the only people to have their bank cards and more than a few dollars on them after being stranded.

According to The Points Guy , if you do not arrive at the port before the boarding window ends, a cruise ship “will most certainly leave without you.”

“Even if you are standing at the pier, waving frantically. That’s because a cruise ship’s departure time is carefully planned and more than just your vacation is at stake.

“Just like airplanes, cruise ships are on tight schedules — much tighter than you may realise.”

Norwegian Cruise Line responds

In a statement provided to news.com.au, the US based Norwegian Cruise Lines said while the ship was in São Tomé and Príncipe, an African island nation, eight guests who were on the island on a private tour “not organised through us” missed the last tender back to the vessel, “therefore not meeting the all aboard time of 3pm local time.”

“While this is a very unfortunate situation, guests are responsible for ensuring they return to the ship at the published time, which is communicated broadly over the ship’s intercom, in the daily print communication and posted just before exiting the vessel.”

The spokesperson said when the guests did not return to the vessel at the all aboard time, their passports were delivered to the local port agents to retrieve when they returned to the port, as per the regular protocol.

The tourists had made arrangements to rejoin the ship in Banjul , Gambia on April 1, but the ship was unable to safely dock in the destination “due to adverse weather conditions.”

The spokesperson told news.com.au it contacted the passengers regarding the itinerary adjustment and provided them with authorisation to rejoin the ship at Dakar, Senegal on April 2.

“Despite the series of unfortunate events outside of our control, we will be reimbursing these eight guests for their travel costs from Banjur, Gambia to Dakar, Senegal. We remain in communication with the guests and are providing additional information as it becomes available.”

A TikToker and cruiser Candi Thomas unleashed on the passengers saying it was the responsibility of the passengers to make it back to the ship on time.

The Campbells, from South Carolina, were the only people to have their bank cards and more than a few dollars on them. They said they have spent $7500 on accommodation and food for their fellow castaways.

They explained they were late to the cruise because there was an issue on their private tour.

“They [tour] were like: ‘No problem, we can get you back within an hour,’” Mr. Campbell, who is a schoolteacher.

“For those of you who don’t cruise, let me tell you. Before you get off the ship there’s numerous announcements, You have it in your daily planning letter, there are signs … you have to be on board 60 to 90 minutes before that ship is departing,” she said.

The guide contacted the captain to say the group were going to be late . When they got back to port the ship was still anchored just off shore. But staff would not allow the passengers to board.

“The harbour master tried to call the ship, the captain refused the call,” Mr. Campbell told ABC 4 News South Carolina .

“We sent emails to NCL, the NCL customer service emergency number, they said ‘Well, the only way for us to get in touch with the ship is to send them emails, they’re not responding to our emails.’”

Mr. Campbell said it had been a challenging experience, describing it as a “very, very difficult process."

Mr. Campbell said the nation’s coastguard service then put all the passengers on a boat and sailed them out to the cruise ship, but still they were refused permission to board.

He told US broadcaster NBC’s the Today Show on Tuesday that the people of São Tomé and Príncipe had been “very gracious, very hospitable,” and had steered them towards hotels and travel agents.

Nonetheless, he said, it had been a challenging experience, describing it as a “very, very difficult process.”

News.com.au understands the eight guests have now rejoined the cruise in Dakar, Senegal.

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Married couple Jill and Jay Campbell were among the eight passengers who were left behind on a cruise after doing a private tour in Africa.

Ask a Cruise Question

Do you take your passport off the ship?

By bandjwayne , January 5, 2019 in Ask a Cruise Question

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JBSteelerfan

You will probably get a 50-50 split here. We always leave ours locked in safe, with a note on outside cabinet door noting passports are in safe (if we were late and security came to retrieve them) and then we take a color photo copy of passports with us when we get off ship. Of course we always try to plan our days not to run too close to all aboard time.

We take ours with us. That's why we have them.

Other than at Labadee, yes. Some people around here are so worried that something will happen to their passports I am surprised they even take them out of their homes.

I never leave the ship without our passports. I keep them in an RIF holder in a travel neck purse with a steel cord that cannot be cut. I wear it under my clothes, or across my chest, and keep credit cards and cash in it, too.

It's the only way to truly identify yourself as an American citizen, and the only way to get out of a country if you miss the ship. A paper copy will help to get your passport replace by the US Embassy, but that means waiting for the new passport in that location, instead of going to the airport or ferry and getting to the ship's next stop.

I've never understood the logic of taking a passport on a trip and not keeping it with you.

Yes we take ours with us

clean1owner

Used to keep them locked in the safe and carry a color copy, but now just take them with and leave the color copies in the safe.

You never know what could happen in port.

cruisemom42

I do not carry my passport ashore unless the particular country I'm visiting requires it.

If you leave your passport in your safe, it will be retrieved and left with the port agent should you, for some reason, miss the ship.

In 40 years of cruising I have never come close to missing the ship. Whereas I have been pickpocketed twice. I'd rather not take the risk...

(Some cruise lines even hold your passport on cruises in certain areas -- so carrying it isn't an option.)

lenquixote66

50 minutes ago, bandjwayne said: We're having first time cruisers join us on a cruise in a few weeks (Eastern Caribbean). They were wondering if they should bring their passports off ship with them. In the past we've personally left our passports on the ship, but took a paper copy of them with us. This is because I was worried our bag might get stolen. Now I'm rethinking this as I'm not sure a paper copy would help me much if I actually needed the passport. What do you do with your passport???

We never take ours off the ship. In fact on our cruise last month we were never asked for photo id upon returning to the ship area,only our sea pass cards.

I don't like carrying things with me that I don't need to carry so I leave them in the safe unless they are required by local law. Everyone has to make the decision that is right for them and there is no right or wrong answer that is universal.

sloopsailor

We never take them out of the safe unless required to. No need to carry such a valuable document when it is unnecessary. We do carry a copy in case we are unexpectedly asked to "show our documents" (which has NEVER happened in all our years of traveling).

Cruise lines know it is in their better interest to provide the simple courtesy of checking the room safe for passports if they know you will miss the ship. No cruise line I know of would knowingly turn their backs on assisting their customers in this way. At least, no cruise line I would ever patronize.

If Cruise Critic members were left stranded without their passports, you can bet they would come here and complain loud and clear. And they don't.

30 minutes ago, sloopsailor said: If Cruise Critic members were left stranded without their passports, you can bet they would come here and complain loud and clear. And they don't.

Actually, anyone who has been around CC for a while would know better than to come back here and admit that they missed the ship. They know there would be post after post of unempathetic "seasons cruisers" telling them how irresponsible they were for missing the ship in the first place. 😉 🙄

22 minutes ago, sloopsailor said: We never take them out of the safe unless required to. No need to carry such a valuable document when it is unnecessary. We do carry a copy in case we are unexpectedly asked to "show our documents" (which has NEVER happened in all our years of traveling). Cruise lines know it is in their better interest to provide the simple courtesy of checking the room safe for passports if they know you will miss the ship. No cruise line I know of would knowingly turn their backs on assisting their customers in this way. At least, no cruise line I would ever patronize. If Cruise Critic members were left stranded without their passports, you can bet they would come here and complain loud and clear. And they don't.

Here's what has happened to us in our 45 years of cruising:

On our cruise in October 2018 I was chasing my husband down the street in San Juan, Puerto Rico, because I realized he was going back to the ship to get something without his passport. I caught up with him at the gate to the dock, arguing with the security guard about not letting him pass without it. Security measures in many ports are getting tighter, and what used to be the usual procedure is no longer. It's hit-or-miss as to which port, and it depends on the security alert level on that particular day.

Yes, the staff on board the ship will most likely go to a cabin and retrieve the passport, give it to the port authority, and sail away without the passenger(s) not checked-in. Personally, I don't want to be one of those passengers needing to deal with finding the port authority with my passport (I'm not going to assume they will be standing on the dock waiting for me; it could be hours before I get back). Then, I'd have to find my way to the next port.

If what is described above doesn't happen, then I have to find the US Consulate or Embassy and get my passport replaced.

We were stranded in a foreign country after a cruise due to a port closure, along with the passengers from 5 other ships. Even with a passport it was a nightmare getting home 3 days later. I would NOT have wanted to deal with that AND replacing my passport. We just happened to be stranded over a holiday weekend where there were no hotels available except about 50 miles away.

You just never know what's going to happen: plan for the worst; hope for the best. Keep the passport with you to eliminate that extra step in a bad situation.

We never take ours unless required.

We take a photo of the passport, a DL and of course our cruise card.

2 hours ago, bandjwayne said: We're having first time cruisers join us on a cruise in a few weeks (Eastern Caribbean). They were wondering if they should bring their passports off ship with them. In the past we've personally left our passports on the ship, but took a paper copy of them with us. This is because I was worried our bag might get stolen. Now I'm rethinking this as I'm not sure a paper copy would help me much if I actually needed the passport. What do you do with your passport???

I only take my passport off the ship in those ports that I am required to have the passport while ashore. That's been about 2 or 3 times in 23 cruises. The rest of the time the passport remains onboard, in my safe.

Beyond that, I take my ship's card and driver's license (photo ID).

This merry-go-round has started up yet again. Consider the fact that there are two camps vehemently opposed: the "never take a passport off the ship" camp and the "always take my passport ashore" camp. Given that, use your own judgement and never mind what anyone else does. Polling on this subject is a waste of time.

payitforward

I agree with Shorex. There are two different camps on this issue. Both believe they are correct, and neither is going to change their minds.

But, since you asked what we personally do, I leave mine in my stateroom safe. I am far more likely to lose it or have it stolen than I am to miss the ship. That said, I also have the mobile passport app, so I do have a photo of my passport in my phone.

1 hour ago, Shmoo here said: I only take my passport off the ship in those ports that I am required to have the passport while ashore. That's been about 2 or 3 times in 23 cruises. The rest of the time the passport remains onboard, in my safe. Beyond that, I take my ship's card and driver's license (photo ID).

And also take the ship's newsletter for that day which will have the phone number of the port representative so you can call if you know in advance you will be late.

Always take it with me anywhere I go. Even have it with me when I work.

Some places I go sometimes require 2 forms of Real ID for identification.

Sometimes I never know when I may have to fly last minute.

Would hate to be in Vegas, hit a jackpot and can't get that private jet to Mexico because I left the passport at home.

Oh,,, but it might get lost, misplaced, or stolen.

That could also happen to my credit cards, wallet, and drivers license.

But those can be replaced

Actually a lost passport is easier to replace than lost credit cards or drivers license. Only takes a day or 2.

34 minutes ago, payitforward said: I agree with Shorex. There are two different camps on this issue. Both believe they are correct, and neither is going to change their minds.

I never try to change someone else's mind on this issue. What someone else does with their passport has absolutely no affect on me at all.

1 hour ago, Shorex said: This merry-go-round has started up yet again. Consider the fact that there are two camps vehemently opposed: the "never take a passport off the ship" camp and the "always take my passport ashore" camp. Given that, use your own judgement and never mind what anyone else does. Polling on this subject is a waste of time.

True, made up minds will never change on this subject. But it is still worthwhile expressing one's personal opinion, from either position, in order to assist someone who is unsure what might be best for themselves, such as the OP. Best to offer that opinion without passive insults to people with other points of view as was done with a recent post an hour ago that has since been removed.

Brief answer for me, no, but I respect others opposite view on this issue and won’t say anyone is right or wrong

taglovestocruise

Never, unless required to. Once in Tunisia we were told to turn them over to the port authorities.

The point I'm trying to make is the world is changing, and what was true for decades might be different now. The two experiences I related were in 2005 and 2018: one in Spain, and the other in Puerto Rico. Just making up your mind and not taking in new facts is not wise when traveling. Policies, laws, security, etc. are fluid and can change.

4 hours ago, cruisemom42 said: I do not carry my passport ashore unless the particular country I'm visiting requires it. If you leave your passport in your safe, it will be retrieved and left with the port agent should you, for some reason, miss the ship. In 40 years of cruising I have never come close to missing the ship. Whereas I have been pickpocketed twice. I'd rather not take the risk... (Some cruise lines even hold your passport on cruises in certain areas -- so carrying it isn't an option.)

Agree with cruisemom42...exactly what I wanted to say.

Note: Regarding a photo of my passport (or driver's license)...the security guard in Nassau refused to accept the "phone photo" at the gate...my mistake. Lesson: If the ship tells you to bring a photo ID along with your seapass card..bring both.

We've also asked several airlines if they will accept "phone photos"...answer: "no". Would appreciate any information from anyone where a "phone photo" was accepted...thanks.

Finally, next time we're overseas and walk by a U.S. Embassy, we'll make sure to go in and ask if having a "phone photo" of our passport will help us in the event it was lost or stolen.

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8 things that happen when you have a cruise ship (almost) all to yourself

H ave you ever wished you could have your own private cruise ship? I've felt that way, especially after sailing on vessels at just 25% capacity following the COVID-19 industry shutdown. Something special happens when you're one of only a few passengers on board — something you can experience by staying on the ship during port days.

It might sound counterintuitive, especially if you cruise to see new places. After all, you don't have to take a voyage to lie in the sun, read a book or sleep in; you can do that at home for free. However, if you find yourself in a port you've already visited, and you're craving some relaxation, I highly recommend hanging back while most of your fellow passengers head ashore.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

If you're skeptical, here are eight things, both good and bad, that happen when you skip port days and have a cruise ship almost all to yourself.

There are no lines

On a recent sailing, I waited 20 minutes one sea day afternoon to grab a slice of pizza by the pool. It was delicious and worth every second I stood in line, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't have liked the wait to be shorter.

The following day, I stayed on the ship when it docked in a port I had been to several times before, and I was able to walk right up to the counter at lunchtime and snag a pie without any wait time at all.

I saw no lines for the usually popular waterslides, and trivia wasn't standing room only as it had been the day before.

You can find quiet spaces

As libraries become a relic of the past on many new vessels, it's increasingly more difficult to find quiet spaces outside of your cabin to read, do puzzles or simply take in the scenery — especially on crowded megaships and on sea days.

When most passengers are on land, many of the public areas transform into quiet spaces by default. Lower decibels make for a more soothing, peaceful atmosphere that lends itself to relaxation. Although certain bars might be closed, their adjoining lounges offer respite from the usual ship hubbub.

You'll never fight for a deck chair

As any avid cruiser knows, it can be downright impossible to snag a sun lounger near the pool on busy sea days. Each morning, some people rise early, slink from their cabins and claim prime poolside real estate by placing their belongings on deck chairs in the most sought-after locations. Then, they return to bed.

These passengers, known as chair hogs , have caused cruise lines to instate time limits. If a chair isn't actually occupied by a person for a certain amount of time, crew members are allowed to remove any items placed on them in order to free up space for other people to use.

You'll never run into this problem when a ship is in port, even on the nicest of days. Most passengers will leave the vessel in search of a beach on which to hog loungers instead; this leaves the pool nearly deserted for anyone who stays on board to enjoy.

Spa appointments abound

You must book certain activities and experiences before you board your sailing if you have your heart set on them. Spa treatments aren't generally one of them.

However, if you find that you're having trouble with the availability of certain treatments after you board or you're looking to score a discount, schedule something on a port day. With fewer people on the ship, more appointments are available; onboard spas and salons will often knock a percentage off the cost of services to entice people to show up when business is slow.

You can peek behind the curtain

One of the most interesting aspects of staying on board when most other cruisers don't is the chance to see some of what the average passenger misses when they're ashore.

Although you won't be able to directly participate in crew drills, you'll likely hear them announced during port days. If you're in the right place at the right time, you might be able to watch from your cabin balcony or an upper deck as lifeboats are launched and tested.

If you're listening closely, you might hear announcements directing the crew to a particular restaurant, bar or public space for faux medical or fire emergencies. If you just so happen to make your way to that area after the call (while staying out of the way, of course), you could see mock CPR rescues or fire responses; some of these practice scenarios are conducted on dummies like Ryan, pictured pre-rescue on Norwegian Viva .

On other ships, you might also be able to catch members of the entertainment crew as they rehearse for that night's show. Theaters are often closed to the public during rehearsals, but sometimes, you can quietly sneak in on the top floor and sit in the back to watch.

On some ships, such as the ones in Carnival Cruise Line 's new Excel Class , the secondary theater is open, and rehearsals can't be blocked off from passenger view. Royal Caribbean 's AquaTheater (on Oasis and Icon Class ships) is also in public areas that guests can access at all times. Grab a coffee or a cocktail, find a seat and get a preview of the show.

You'll miss a day in port

Obviously, if you stay on the ship in port, you won't be ashore, which means you'll miss one of the places on your itinerary. That's why I only recommend skipping port days in places you've already visited.

It definitely can be a bummer when you stay on board only to have your travel companions return to the ship at the end of the day and gush about what a fantastic time they had on a shore excursion or exploring on their own.

Of course, you can always spend part of your day on board before heading to land. Perhaps you sleep in, order room service or have brunch in the dining room, then hit the gym or have a spa treatment. Afterward, you can disembark to enjoy a bit of beach time or a tasty early dinner. That only works if your ship is docked for a significant chunk of time, but it's a nice compromise that won't make you feel like you missed out. It can also help your day to feel less exhausting.

You'll have limited food options

On port days, you won't find as many daytime food choices on board as on sea days. That's because many passengers will take all-day excursions or opt to dine ashore instead of on the vessel, so the ship doesn't need so many eateries to be open for lunch.

On port days, you're likely to be limited to the buffet and a handful of other casual choices like grill fare or pizza. The main dining rooms and specialty restaurants are likely to be closed; if you're hoping for a nicer sit-down lunch, you'll want to plan that for a day at sea.

You'll have fewer choices of onboard activities

A port day is a fantastic time to stay on board and avoid crowds in places like the gym, minigolf course, basketball court, pools and waterslides; these tend to be open regardless of the day. However, you can't avoid lines for every activity — largely because many onboard experiences aren't open on port days (or have limited hours starting in the afternoon).

Closed attractions or ones with reduced hours might include the go-kart track , ropes course, rock-climbing wall, roller coaster or surf simulator . Additionally, you might find yourself out of luck if you were hoping to grab a port-day slot for a hard-to-book escape room or test out a virtual reality ride.

Your options for crew-led events will also be limited, with fewer activities on the daily schedule. The number of trivia sessions might be cut from five or six to two, and you won't find daytime jewelry or spa seminars or art auctions. The ship's bands won't be playing music live by the pool or in the bars, and you're unlikely to find pool deck activities like bellyflop contests scheduled because not enough people are around to participate.

The same applies to the onboard kids club . Although it might be open, the scheduled events will likely be less structured (think movies, video games, and arts and crafts). Keep that in mind if you're cruising with kids and planning not to disembark.

Bottom line

If you're on a cruise and feel drained or sick of the crowds on board, it's OK to skip a port day in favor of resting, relaxing and enjoying a vessel that will make you feel almost like you're the only person on a cruise ship. This is especially true if you hang back in a port you've already visited.

When you stay on board as others disembark, you'll experience a quieter atmosphere, fewer crowds and more opportunities to take advantage of activities and amenities — such as spa treatments, trivia and waterslides — that can be crowded or difficult to book on busy sea days.

Have cruise questions? TPG has answers:

Packing for a cruise? These items aren't allowed on board
Man overboard: Cruise ship overboards and how they happen
What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
Gentlemen hosts: These men cruise to make sure single ladies have a great time
What is the Jones Act and how does it impact cruise ships?
What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
What's the difference between a cruise ship concierge and a butler?

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

A cruise to nowhere: Royal Caribbean sailing canceled after guests boarded

A Royal Caribbean International Alaska voyage became a cruise to nowhere over the weekend, with the line canceling the sailing after guests had already boarded.

The cruise line’s Radiance of the Seas ship experienced propulsion issues, forcing it to shorten and eventually scrap the weeklong itinerary, according to notices shared with guests. The sailing was originally set to depart from Vancouver on Friday.

Charlene Chong, who was on board with her husband, their 3-year and 11-month-old children, and her parents, said passengers were notified Saturday afternoon that the cruise was canceled. The 34-year-old teacher and her husband previously took a cruise for their honeymoon, but this marked their first trip with Royal Caribbean.

“My parents had wanted to go to Alaska for a really long time,” said Chong, who lives in Vancouver.

The cruise line warned guests several days before boarding that the ship had a “technical issue with its propulsion system,” according to an email sent to passengers that Chong shared with USA TODAY. The line later pushed the departure back by two days to allow more time for repairs.

Royal Caribbean said boarding would proceed as planned but that the terminal would close Friday evening due to U.S. Customs and Border Protection rules. Passengers would not be able to leave until the ship arrived at Icy Strait Point.

“We were going stir crazy a little bit,” said Chong.

Royal Caribbean gave guests onboard credit worth two days of their fare, a future cruise credit of the same amount, complimentary drinks and other compensation, another email said.

According to Chong, the ship sailed toward a nearby cargo port, but the captain announced Saturday afternoon that the sailing could not proceed and that guests would need to disembark by Sunday at 4 p.m. Chong said she and her family were “lucky” they were local, but she saw other guests scrambling to change their flights and find accommodations.

Your cruise was canceled: Now what?

“We understand the disappointment due to this unfortunate turn of events,” the cruise line said in a letter shared with guests. “We truly extend our sincerest apologies for the continued unforeseen disruptions to your vacation.”

Royal Caribbean gave them their money back as onboard credit with any remaining amount refunded, increased their future cruise credit to 100% of their fare and kept its open-bar policy for the remaining time on board. The line also offered to reimburse trip change fees up to $250 for guests traveling domestically and $400 for international travel and additional reimbursements for hotel and transportation costs, among other compensation.

“Due to a technical issue, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the April 26 sailing," a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said in an emailed statement. "Guests will receive a full refund and 100% future cruise credit, and have been notified directly.” The spokesperson did not comment on the specifics of Chong's experience.

The ship will resume service for its May 3 sailing.

After they got home, Chong and her family booked a trip to Mexico instead – though her parents decided not to join as they were “a bit exhausted by the whole ordeal.” For now, she’s not inclined to use the future cruise credit. “I would like to go to Alaska,” she said. “I'm not sure if I want to go with them.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville, Tennessee. You can reach him at [email protected].

Carnival Freedom Cruise Ship

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9241 Charles M Rowland Dr

Port Canaveral, FL 32920

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Just got back from a five day cruise. This was our 20th on Carnival. This was probably the smoothest getting on and off the ship of all of them. The crew was and is always fantastic and super friendly and will go out of their way to make the guest happy. The rooms are typical for a cruise ship but meet our needs. The food was very good. Guys burger is always a hit. Blue iguana tacos were great and I can't believe this is the first time I have tried them. It won't be my last. The buffet was more hits than misses. Loved the midnight chicken nuggets. The pizza was good but the lines kept me from more slices. The main dining room was good but is missing a few choices from last cruise. The only disappointing food option imo was the steak house. My Ribeye was very tuff and that was a disappointment. Everything else we tried was very good. The casino was very nice and run well. The staff were very friendly and knew what they were doing. All in all it was a great cruise.

This review is overdue. It slipped my mind to leave a review for a cruise. My first cruise since covid was from Saturday, 01-21-23 through Thursday, 01-26-23. Freedom was an older ship, but it was still an enjoyable experience. While my room attendant was nice, he'd sometimes leave a rag behind. There was also something left on the space near the mirror. It was like that on day one. I wasn't sure if it was leftover from the last cruisers or something old that wasn't coming off. He did leave a nice message on the mirror for my birthday. The food was decent. The wait staff at dinner was great. I met a birthday twin at dinner. I did a non-Carnival 4-wheeler excursion in the Dominican Republic. I didn't leave the ship in Turks & Caicos. I enjoyed a discounted spa treatment. I am a gold member of the VIFP Club.

See all photos from D A. for Carnival Freedom Cruise Ship

Oh Lawd She Comin' And by "she", I mean me. With any business transaction, it doesn't matter how great everything is, if you leave the customer with a bad taste in their mouth. My experience with Carnival Freedom was excellent 4 out of 5 days of the cruise, but on the last day- they made me so mad I was sweating. On our first fun day at sea I was all over the ship, enjoying the many activities they have going on. I was in line for a free charm bracelet give away and a tray of rum samples came by, followed by a nice young man with a menu of liquor being sold on ship- duty free- for pick up at the end of the cruise. I declined the menu and said we always shop the liquor the last night of the cruise. That charming, young man told me I shouldn't wait because they sell out of things! Noted. I accepted the menu and later that night found myself with John, in the store. So this is day 2 of the cruise. There is a giant bottle of Bacardi Silver on the counter by the register. Like, obnoxiously big- I had never seen a bottle like this and John and I agreed to buy it as a gift for my mom- her mixing rum of choice is Bacardi Silver! Fast forward to the last morning of the cruise, we are pulling into port and you have a 2 hour window to pick up your liquor purchases. I had bought 2 bottles, the Bacardi and a bottle of Woodford Reserve. The checklist only had us down for one bottle pickup. Um, wait- here is my receipt! 20 minutes later, the girl came out to inform me I had been refunded and said someone should have talked to me...???!!! No- why would I wait 20 minutes for you to look for a bottle if anyone had talked to me. Apparently the double sold the bottle and refunded me. BUT- here's the best part, I had seen the bottle still on the counter the day before and wondered how many bottles they had!!! ONE! The one I bought days ago- that no one boxed up, that they refunded me INSTEAD of the person who bought it second. And I said as much to the girl. I knew it wasn't her fault- she was just delivering the bad news, so I walked away before I made a bigger scene, but I was pissed. I was so mad- I got physically hot! I was mad hours, until we disembarked and then I finally started to cool off. The man who was next to me in line for pick up saw me a little while later and told me he was mad on my behalf. That made me feel a little better- because I was feeling crazy angry. John and split off to another part of the ship for our other liquor purchases made in the DR- and he had our room charges receipt. They did in fact refund us for the bottle, and I was right- the refunded us the day before. All of the wonderful parts of the cruise were crushed in a moment of pissing me off just before the end of my vacation. The cleaning crew for our room- ah-mazing, dining room staff, wonderful. Entertainment- fantastic. Spa, Serenity Deck. bar staff across the ship. All fantastic. Shout out to Nancee- our lead for our housekeeping team. Our first couple nights in the dining room- Indrawan, Pema & Darwin!!! I wish I had you all week- you knew my food allergy and my preferences and I adored the care you took in all our interactions! The spa manager, her team including Joy and Michelle were both wonderful! The entire cast for the shows- spectacular and Morgan, I wish we had discovered you before the last night!!! Robbie- the bartender ont he Serenity deck, thank you for great service and the Alchemy Bar was the BEST every single day!!! You were all FIVE STARS. Bye Ya'll! in the words of our Cruise Director!

See all photos from Crystal O. for Carnival Freedom Cruise Ship

The cruise itself was great. I would recommend. Really nice employees, great service, enough to do. The only complaint I have is how old and raggedy the rooms are. I get it, you're not on a cruise to be in the room but still. This has to be the original set up from the 60s. Very old and dated. The bathroom was nasty! Toilet was dirty urine caked on the toilet that clearly has not been cleaned in God knows how long, shower also nasty hair and stains on the shower wall and the shower curtain was literally dirty with mold/rust spots on it. Really creeped me out. To top it all off, the toilet or the bathroom sink had a horrible odor. And the room is tiny, so the smell permeates through the room. I wasted all the air freshener I brought and some perfume trying to mask it. Horrible. I carried my own sheets and I am glad I did. Even when I was speaking to housekeeping, I mentioned packing my own sheets to one of the housekeeping ladies, and she agreed that was good/smart without saying why or too much. The bit of counter space we had was dusty literally white glove thick finger swipe dusty all around especially around the tv. I had the wipe it all down with Lysol wipes. The food on the boat is decent but it's alot of junk fast food and you never seem to get full even though it's all you eat. The crew keeps everything outside the rooms clean. One night around 1:30am I saw them wiping down the pool, and even cleaning the dining hall lamps. But those rooms, they care nothing about. We went on the Carnival Freedom cruise to the Bahamas for a family trip. Our group of 16 rented several rooms and they were all the same. Old, and not clean. We did have a balcony which was nice but it was also old, rusted. We had a weird pipe spewing water on the balcony which was annoying. We had to move the chairs to the far right which blocked the door, just to avoid getting wet by that water which we had no idea if the source was clean or dirty water. This review would be 5 stars overall but I cannot overlook the condition of the rooms. They make millions! Not sure the cost to renovate a cruise ship of that magnitude, but they only need to do the rooms. The rest of the ship is fine. Highlights of the bought: jacuzzis in the adult only Serenity section, 70s club, fitness center, breakfast French toast, duty free alcohol cost, and the Seafood Shack food spot that requires additional payment not included in all you can eat.

See all photos from Simone H. for Carnival Freedom Cruise Ship

We had a lovely time on this ship but there are definitely positive and negatives. It's an older ship so you won't necessarily get all the fancy frills people are getting used to. Service was pretty great, much better than my MSC miravaglia experience in February. Our room steward Papas was fantastic and brought us ice daily, the blue fuzzy blanket when I remembered and greeted us warmly and with care every time we ran in to him. We had decent experiences at most of the bars and those staff who weren't warm and fuzzy were at the very least efficient. The food was meh in the buffet and dining room. Pizza Pirate was great, Blue Iguana tacos were delicious, and Guy's Burgers were terrific. Swirls soft serve was ok. I will sail with Carnival again, but doubtful on this boat again as it was rockier than I have previously experienced on other ships. Thank goodness for my doctor & scopalamine patches or my very sensitive motion sickness would have ruined my trip due to the ship movement.

We sailed on the Carnival Freedom. 01/15-01/20/24 We've had the worst experience Saling with Carnival Freedom. It was a surprise Cruise for our daughter's 25th birthday. I notified the agent when booking it was her birthday on the 15th. Carnival's employee placed our luggage on the wrong ship (Royal). We were on this cruise with none of our essentials or clothing. Christina cried the first 2 nights which is unacceptable. I am totally disgusted in how this life changing situation was handled by Carnival Assistant Supervisor Oris. She had the worst attitude and customer service I've ever experienced. No remorse or empathy for us not having our luggage or Christina's medication. We became irate when she accused us of losing our luggage. How is it possible if we handed it to Carnival's staff? We should be fully refunded for all purchases regarding clothes. There should be some sought of a voucher given for the entirety of this trip. We couldn't go to any of our dinners (Dining Room) or most other events. We were given six t-shirts, free laundry services and a 20% off coupon at the gift shop. The Gift shop by the way had limited options. We weren't aware the insurance purchased was separate and would need to file a claim upon arriving back home. This policy should be reviewed and changed. There needs to be some way to handle a situation like this by Guest Services onboard. Natasha and Tiffany are a few employees who showed some kind of empathy. I appreciate each one of them. Natasha- checked on of us daily Tiffany- went out of her way and purchased my daughter's underwear, delivered them to our room Ultima- delivered personal items to my daughter personally D (Dewa)- our stateroom attendant was very sympathetic and did an awesome job! By the way the only thing we received from Carnival is an email apologizing no compensation or voucher........ THINK TWICE BEFORE YOU SPENDING YOUR MONEY WITH CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE

First time back on a cruise ship since the pandemic. Have cruised with Carnival in the past and this was by far the worst trip. Lots of misinformation on how things operate. Improper delivery of pre-ordered cabin gifts to others in our party, credit and rebilling of prepaid spa services to be able to add gratuity on "original" price, and when cancelling an item paid with a gift card they refund on a new gift card that is sent in the mail rather than just crediting sail account. Only saving grace on this cruise was our amazing room steward I Ketut! Even the food was less than desirable compared to precious cruises. Will definitely reach out to the main office. By the way, still sitting on the boat on debarkation day because their idea of dismissing has no rhyme or reason. Supposed to be muster stations then luggage tags but of course they changed that and now people are leaving Helter skelter because we are all upset. They should send those people into the theater of those.of us that follow directions suffer the most.

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What to Do If Your Cruise Ship Leaves You Behind ... and How to Prepare
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Hey Folks...The Ship Is Leaving Without You
Will the ship really leave without me?
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How I saved my cruise ship from pirates 🏴‍☠️

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What to Do If You Miss the Ship
Find a port agent. Most cruise lines have port agents stationed in the port area to assist if your ship has left without you. In cases when cruisers are late returning to the vessel, the ship's ...
What to Do if Your Cruise Ship Leaves Without You (3 Vital Steps)
3. Contact Your Travel Insurance Company. If you have invested in travel insurance for your vacation, it will be extremely important to contact them directly should you miss your cruise. While it ...
Can a cruise ship leave without you?
Search "pier runners" and you'll get the drift. You don't want to join their lot. A cruise ship can leave without you - and if you get left behind, it will cost you a bundle. Here are ways to avoid that happening, plus what to do if it does. For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.
What Actually Happens When You Miss The Cruise Ship?
What To Do If The Ship Has Left Without You. Most cruise lines have port agents stationed in the port area to assist if your ship has left without you. In cases when cruisers are late returning to the vessel, the ship's crew will often have been into your cabin and removed essential items - passports, mobile/cell phones and medication ...
What happens if you miss your cruise ship?
The general rule of thumb is that a Royal Caribbean cruise ship will not wait for you if you're running late and miss all-aboard time when not on a Royal Caribbean shore excursion. Cruise ships run on tight schedules, and even a 30 minute to an hour delay can cause problems later on, whether arriving late in the next port or rearranging ...
What happens if you miss your cruise
If you miss a day or two of a cruise because of a delayed flight, you might be able to get some reimbursement through a travel insurance policy, assuming you have one. Then again, you might not. Most travel insurance plans offer "trip interruption" coverage that kicks in after missed connections. But there often is fine print that limits the ...
Will a cruise ship leave without you?
The bottom line is that cruise ships are allowed to leave guests in port. If your ship is scheduled to leave at 5:00pm from Cozumel, you won't return at 3:30pm to find the ship sailing away. If, however, you showed up at 5:30pm, you might find yourself left behind, while everyone's watching Mexico disappear into the horizon from the pool deck.
What to do if your ship leaves without you
Run, then jog, then walk. Stop to wave at the ship, motioning to the captain to select reverse.. Run, then saunter, then stop to tap their watch. Respond to the mix of encouragement & jeers from those lining the prom deck rail, using open arms and the occasional obscene gesture. Run again, rather more slowly.
What to Do if You Miss the Ship
This is not the time to go off on your own. Book the cruise line's shore excursion, and if there are any delays, the ship will wait for the group. If you go on your own, it's your responsibility to get back to the dock in time. See Port Excursions with Return to Ship Guarantee . 4. Bring identification with you anytime you leave the ship.
What Happens When Your Cruise Ship Leaves Without You?
First of all, the ship will NOT wait for you if you are late. However, if you are on a sponsored excursion booked through the cruise line and are late coming back, the ship will wait. Excursions ...
What Happens When A Cruise Ship Leaves You
Being left behind on a cruise ship can have a range of consequences, both practical and emotional. Let's take a look at some of the potential impacts: Stranded in a foreign port: If a cruise ship departs without you, you may find yourself stranded in a foreign country. This can be a daunting experience, especially if you don't speak the ...
What Happens If You Miss Your Cruise Ship?
Cruise Ship Gangway in Port. On the other hand, if you are missing but you have managed to contact the ship or the relevant port agent, the ship may extend you the courtesy of waiting for your ...
What Happens If a Cruise Ship Leaves You Behind?
Cruises don't leave passengers behind all that often, but it does happen. The captain is the one who ultimately makes the final call, and ships usually wait for at least a half hour before leaving passengers behind. If, however, you are late because of an excursion you booked through the cruise line, the ship will always wait for you, because ...
What Happens When You Miss The Cruise Ship?
Cruise pier in Nassau, Bahamas. 1. The technology used to track which passengers are (and are not) on board is given a quick check. 2. The names of the missing passengers are announced over the ...
OH NO
Regardless, some people luck out and make it back on board, properly scolded by the Staff Captain, of course. I've even seen extra lucky guests who were brought back onto the cruise ship by the Pilot Boat (HIGHLY unlikely btw so don't plan for this to happen!). Others will have to meet the ship at the next port… or worse.
What happens if you miss your cruise ship
If you miss your ship in Miami and the first port of call is Key West, Florida, you will be unable to join your ship until it docks in a foreign port, like Mexico or Jamaica. Likewise, if you are sailing on a 7-night Bahamas cruise departing from New York and the first port is Port Canaveral, Florida, you will not be able to join the ship until ...
Will a Cruise Ship Leave Without You?
The thought of getting left behind in a foreign port is undoubtedly concerning, especially for first-time cruisers. While the chances of this happening are low, it's essential to know that, yes, a cruise ship can leave without you. The chances of getting left behind are low, but it can happen if you're not careful.
What to Do if You are Late Back for Your Cruise Ship and How to Avoid It
Find a port agent. Most cruise lines have their cruise agents in all the ports of call, so they will help you if you are late for your cruise ship. Very often, members of the crew give the necessities of latecomers such as passports, mobile phones, and medicine to port agents. Besides, they can help you to contact your cruise ship and advise ...
Cruise left without us, We did everything we could to get ...
Cruise left without us, We did everything we could to get there on time. I would like to share this little adventure my wife and I had. TL;DR - if you are going out of a boat on an island.... have your passports with you. This happened to us on the Celebrity Constellation ship that sailed for thanksgiving week to Cozumel and Key west.
Why did the cruise ship leave me behind? I only needed a blood
Much to his dismay, NCL passenger Andrew Goldstein found out that the answer is 'yes.'. During his last cruise aboard Norwegian's Breakaway, the medical team informed him that he required an immediate blood transfusion. Unable to provide such a service on the ship, the cruise line sent him to the hospital on St. Kitts.
Cruise passengers who were left behind sparks huge debate
00:01. 00:39. A fiery debate has sparked after a cruise denied eight passengers to board the ship after they failed to make the 3 pm cut-off time. The Norwegian Dawn ship left the tourists on an ...
What to Do If You Miss Your Flight to Your Cruise
If you booked through the cruise line and your flight was cancelled or significantly delayed, in most cases the cruise company will arrange the flight changes to get you to the next port. If, on ...
Do you take your passport off the ship?
4 hours ago, cruisemom42 said: I do not carry my passport ashore unless the particular country I'm visiting requires it. If you leave your passport in your safe, it will be retrieved and left with the port agent should you, for some reason, miss the ship. In 40 years of cruising I have never come close to missing the ship.
8 things that happen when you have a cruise ship (almost) all to ...
Something special happens when you're one of only a few passengers on board — something you can experience by staying on the ship during port days. It might sound counterintuitive, especially if ...
Royal Caribbean cancels Alaska cruise after guests boarded
0:00. 0:42. A Royal Caribbean International Alaska voyage became a cruise to nowhere over the weekend, with the line canceling the sailing after guests had already boarded. The cruise line's ...
CARNIVAL FREEDOM CRUISE SHIP
6 reviews and 135 photos of CARNIVAL FREEDOM CRUISE SHIP "Oh Lawd She Comin' And by "she", I mean me. With any business transaction, it doesn't matter how great everything is, if you leave the customer with a bad taste in their mouth. My experience with Carnival Freedom was excellent 4 out of 5 days of the cruise, but on the last day- they made me so mad I was sweating.

What Actually Happens When You Miss The Cruise Ship?

Missing Your Ship After a Day In Port

If You Know You Are Running Late

What To Do If The Ship Has Left Without You

If All Else Fails, Contact Your Country’s Embassy

Travelling to the Ship’s Next Port Of Call

Retrieve Your Belongings If You Are Not Going To Re-Board The Ship

Sensible Precautions To Take When Disembarking At A Port.

What Happens If You Are Delayed And Never Make It On To The Ship In The First Place?

The Bottom Line

Before You Go

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

What happens if you miss your cruise

Can I board a cruise ship late?

Will a cruise ship leave without me?

Can I join the ship at the next port?

Can I get a refund or credit for the missed cruise?

Will travel insurance help if I miss my cruise ship?

Could a travel agent help me?

Bottom line

What Happens When A Cruise Ship Leaves You

Introduction

Why do cruise ships leave passengers?

Consequences of being left behind

Rights and compensation for passengers left behind

Tips for avoiding being left behind on a cruise ship

If Your Cruise Ship Leaves You Behind At a Stop, Here's What You Should Do Next

What happens if a cruise ship leaves you behind?

How often do cruise ships leave passengers behind?

What Happens When You Miss The Cruise Ship?

Richard Simms

How Cruise Passengers Wind Up Being Left Behind

How To Avoid Being Left Behind

What Happens Before The Ship Leaves?

Do Cruisers Who Are Left Behind Deserve Refunds?

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OH NO – My Cruise Ship Left Port Without Me! So Now What?

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Will a Cruise Ship Leave Without You? (Tip: Don’t Be Late)

Will a Cruise Ship Leave Without You?

Will a Cruise Ship Wait For You If You’re Late?

Why Cruise Ships Leave Without Passengers

How Late Can You Board a Cruise Ship?

Steps to Avoid Missing Your Cruise Ship

Make Sure Your Phone is Set to Ship Time

Set an Alarm

Take a Cruise-Sponsored Shore Excursion

Bring a Map

Fly to Your Departure Port The Day Before Your Cruise

What to Do If You Miss the Ship

Find a Port Agent

Locating the Nearest Embassy or Consulate

Make Travel Arrangements

Retrieve Your Belongings

Try to Relax

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do cruise ships leave passengers behind?

How long will a cruise ship wait for you?

Will a Cruise Ship Wait for You If You’re on a Shore Excursion?

What if you miss the cruise due to a delayed flight?

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What to Do if You are Late Back for Your Cruise Ship and How to Avoid It

How to Avoid Being Late for Your Cruise Ship?

Take into account the change of time zones.

Choose shore excursions carefully

Be Prepared

Keep all the necessary important information

What to Do if You are Late for Your Cruise Ship

Find a port agent

Make phone calls

Organizing your trip to the next port of call

Take care of your belongings

Trying to relax