Most cruise lines send a representative to meet and greet passengers who have purchased a package with transfers in the baggage-claim area of the airport. Some will have a desk in the baggage-claim area for your assistance. In general follow these instructions:

• Go to the baggage-claim area.
• Look for a cruise-line representative, and check in.
• Claim your luggage as you normally would.
• Do with your luggage as the representative directs you.
• When you arrive at the cruise pier, make sure to tip the people checking the luggage--a dollar per bag is standard.
• If you do not have transfers included in your cruise line it will be your responsibility to arrange transportation to the ship. But don’t worry, transportation providers at most airports located by large cruise ports are aware that many people passing through need to get to a ship. It should be fairly easy to get transportation to the pier.

Embarkation times vary with each cruise, but most cruise lines will let you begin embarkation, or boarding the ship, up to 3 hours before the ship actually sets sail. It's crucial that passengers be onboard no later than 30 minutes before the scheduled sailing time.

• For security reasons, most cruise lines ask that you not bring guests aboard the vessel in any port.
• You must be onboard the ship (not arriving at the terminal) at least 30 minutes before the ship departs.

Simply present your cruise documents and proof of citizenship to one of the attendants in the cruise terminal.

• At this time, you'll usually be served with your identification card which serves several purposes:
  • This identification card is used when boarding, exiting, and re-boarding the ship.
  • Your dining time and seating assignment are on your card.
  • This card is also used as a charge card while onboard the ship. Cash is not generally accepted for purchases on the ship.

The word transfer is used to describe the conveyances between the ship and other modes, such as airports, hotels, or departure points for shore excursions. Basically it involves you and the other members in your party being transferred, or transported from one point, like the hotel, to another point, like the ship.

• If you have purchased a cruise package including transfers, most cruise lines send a representative to meet and greet passengers in the baggage claim area of the airport. Or they will have a desk in the Baggage claim area for you to gain assistance. In general follow these instructions:
  • Go to the baggage claim area as normal
  • Look for and find a cruise line representative, either an individual or a desk with personnel, and check in with the cruise line representative.
  • Claim your luggage as you normally would.
  • Do with your luggage as the representative directs you.
  • When you arrive at the Cruise Pier, you may tip the people checking the luggage in.

Note: If you do not have transfers included in your cruise it will be your responsibility to arrange transportation to the ship. But don’t worry, transportation providers at most airports located by large cruise ports are aware that cruises are going out and people need transportation to them. There are usually several modes of transportation available (e.g. shuttles, taxis) to get transportation to the pier.

It is wise to pack as lightly as possible, but this can vary depending upon the season and region of the world in which you are sailing. Remember that you will probably need both casual and formal clothes.

• In many instances, passengers can take advantage of laundry and dry-cleaning services. You can usually find price lists and laundry bags in your cabin.

Be sure to pack an extra fold-away bag to carry home any souvenirs you purchase during your trip.

All cabins on major cruise lines feature standard 110 V electrical outlets. You won't need an adapter to use a small hair dryer or electric razor.

Inoculations are not required, but depending on the traveler's age, previous inoculation status, the nature and duration of travel, and the destination, an inoculation may be in order.

• It never hurts to consult your physician, who may have additional suggestions concerning inoculations and other preventative measures.

Baggage limitations vary by cruise line. Listed below are limitations by cruise line. Please keep in mind that these limitations are different than those for airlines.

• Carnival - No set limit.
• Celebrity / Royal Caribbean - Passengers can bring up to 200 pounds of luggage per person.
• Princess - No set limit.
• Holland America - No set limit.
• Norwegian - Passengers can bring up to 250 pounds of personal luggage per person.
• Disney - No set limit.