To and From Your Cruise Line

Arranging Flights To and From Your Cruise Ship

When you have to travel to your cruise line’s port, one of the things you have to think about is how you will arrange to purchase your transfer tickets before and after the trip. There are two ways you can do this: one is booking the tickets yourself and the other is allowing your travel agent to book them for you (similar to using the cruise line packages).

When you opt to book the ticket’s yourself, make sure that you leave plenty of time for the transfer from the airport to the pier. Also allot time for any possible delays so you are assured that you make it in time for the embarkation schedule. If possible, be on location a day before the ship is scheduled to leave. You may have to spend for a day’s lodging at a hotel; however, you will be assured to be on that ship and experience that long planned vacation.

Although this option is meant to offer passengers more flight choices…

…this is not often the case especially if the schedules are on weekends or during vacation months. What usually happens is that flights are all fully booked such that a passenger ends up arriving on the ship’s pier location a day or two before the embarkation, or have to fly there in two connecting flights instead of one.

On the other hand, if you choose to use cruise line packages, then you practically don’t have to worry about anything. Compared to booking the tickets yourself, this option is a lot more convenient since there is no hassle of looking for the right flight. In addition, other modes of transportation such as airport to pier transfers are usually included in the package so you won’t have to look for a taxi or a rental car after your flight.

Another advantage that you will get from this latest option…

is that the ship’s management usually monitors the flight status of the plane carrying their passengers. So in case of any delay, they will make the necessary arrangements to ensure that you make it to the embarkation. Usually, the ship waits for any delayed flights. Otherwise, your transfer to the next port the ship will be docking on is arranged.

Lastly, although not in all instances, using cruise line packages allows you to avail of lower costs. The airline tickets are usually priced lower since most shipping lines transfer the discount they get from booking numerous tickets to their passengers. Then, other transportation such as airport to pier transfers are a lot cheaper compared to getting a taxi, if not free.

Additional Articles of Interest

• Understand that embarkations are the busiest times for the staff and crew members. Every cruise ship embarkation has a proper procedure must be followed. Be aware that lines are inevitable, and patience is essential. Being prepared for what will be asked…