1. Booking and Documentation:
- Confirm cruise booking names, numbers and itineraries.
- Check that each passport is valid for at least six months from end of travel date.
- Verify the name(s) on the passports matches the names on the booking reservation (in case there was a marriage and a maiden name is still on the passport and not match the cruise documents).
- Bring a second form of government ID; driver's license, etc.
- Print out cruise documents and luggage tags and organize by passenger.
2. Financial Preparations:
For most banks it is now not necessary to advise them of your travel plans. They have the technology of knowing if your credit card is being in an unusual way. It is, however, advisable to check with your credit card company for their policy. Nonetheless, if it is used in another country, you may be advised to use a 'no foreign exchange fee' card. Most countries you visit will accept a form of credit card and/or US currency. However, if you use US currency, use small bills and expect to get local currency as change.
3. Transportation:
Confirm travel arrangements to and from the cruise and print confirmations. This may include flights, buses, hotel and hotel shuttles. It is highly recommended, if possible, to arrive at your cruise port the day before the cruise. If driving to a port whether it is the same day or several days in advance it is suggested that you make a parking reservation online several days ahead at a lot nearby or port garage and again, print out your confirmation. If you plan on having your own personal motorized scooter onboard, check with your cruise line for their specific size requirements.
4. Packing:
- Your itinerary and weather predictions will act as a general guide. However, bring some clothing for unexpected climate changes. You can also purchase clothing if needed aboard the ship.
- Most cruise lines (except the luxury lines) have a Formal Night. There is more of a tendency to be 'country club casual'. However, it's your vacation and perhaps a special occasion. So, if a tux is the way to go, there are tailors onboard if a fitting is needed and a spa for ladies. Comfortable footwear is a necessity for you will be doing considerable walking on and off the ship.
- Most passengers will have one checked bag and a carry on with medications and perhaps a change of clothes and snacks if waiting for their stateroom to be prepared. I suggest you put a luggage tag on this bag as well it is inadvertently left apart from you.
- Charging cables and plugs for electronics. Some cruise ships only have one electrical outlet in the stateroom, so a multi-charge device may be a good add in.
5. Leaving the nest:
- Let your friends and family know you will be away. Inform them if you are expecting any deliveries. Ask them to pick up packages, newspapers and mail while you are away. Follow your normal procedure when going to be away; check all windows, temperature controls set, pets, doors, locks and lights. Do a thorough walk-through.
- ALL DOCUMENTS accounted for.
- Alarm set if applicable.
6. Miscellaneous:
- Your personal cruise journal.
- A small notebook with pen/pencil.
- Ear plugs.
- Small First Aid Kit.
- Post it stickers for companions doors.
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