Hey there, sea lovers! It’s Shelly 🐢🛳️ and boarding day might be my happiest day of the whole cruise. You walk on, you smell the sea air, and then the big question hits: what’s actually open? Here are my cruise embarkation day tips so you can relax from the very first hour.
Watch the video
Prefer to watch? Here’s the short video on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=DGTbmmn3z60.
What food is open on cruise embarkation day?
Food first! The buffet is usually open for lunch as soon as you board, and some casual spots, like pizza or grill counters, often open too. Heads up: the main dining room is often closed for lunch on boarding day.
Shelly tip: skip the busy buffet rush and grab a quick bite at a smaller casual spot. Curious what’s included and what costs extra? Read Cruise Specialty Dining Cost: Free Dining or Paid Specialty Dining?.
Pools, hot tubs and bars open right away
Pools, hot tubs and bars are usually open right away, so you can start relaxing early. Your cabin may not be ready until early afternoon, though.
Shelly tip: pack a small carry-on with your swimsuit, sunscreen and meds, so you’re not waiting on your luggage.
Book the spa and specialty dining early
Boarding day is also a great time to book. The spa often offers tours and boarding-day deals, and specialty restaurants take reservations, so grab the times you want before they fill up. Use your cruise line’s app to book from anywhere on the ship. Planning your onboard budget too? 6 Hidden Cruise Costs Most Cruisers Forget has the extras worth knowing about.
What’s closed on boarding day?
Onboard shops and the casino usually stay closed until the ship is out at sea. And don’t miss the safety drill. It’s required for every guest before the ship sails. Want to know what you might hear over the speakers once you’re sailing? Check out Cruise Ship Emergency Codes: 5 Crew Codes You Don’t Want to Hear.
Ready to sail? Find cruise deals
Rules and times vary by cruise line and ship, so check your cruise line’s app on boarding day. Ready to plan your next sailing? Tap Find Cruise Deals at cruisingwithshelly.com to see current cruise deals.
FAQ
Is the main dining room open on cruise embarkation day?
Often not for lunch. The buffet and some casual spots usually are. Check your ship’s app for boarding day hours.
When can I get into my cruise cabin?
Many ships open cabins in the early afternoon, so keep a small carry-on with what you need for the first few hours.
Is the safety drill required?
Yes. The safety drill is required for every guest before the ship sails.
What’s the first thing you do on board? Tell me in the comments on the video! 🐢🛳️
Follow Shelly 🐢🛳️ for more cruise tips on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and X.
Hours, policies and venues vary by cruise line and ship. Check your cruise line’s app and current details before you sail.
