Flying to Schiphol and want to get into the city quickly? Whether you have gotten off the plane or the train, you can be in the centre of Amsterdam in under 20 minutes. Trains leaves from Schiphol to Amsterdam Central from platform 3 every 7 minutes! The train ticket doesn’t cost much and it’s faster than traveling by taxi. Super convenient! This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Traveling by public transport to/from the airport is a smart choice: it saves costs, is environmentally friendly, and offers convenience and comfort. In addition, from a safety perspective, it is wise to choose public transport, especially if you are tired after a long flight. Where can I find the train to Amsterdam? Schiphol Airport station is just below the airport. From the arrivals hall, follow the ‘Trains’ signs to Schiphol Plaza, where you take the escalator or elevator down to the platforms. Go to platform 3 for the sprinter train to Amsterdam. You never have to wait long….the train leaves for Amsterdam Central eight times an hour, seven days a week! There are slightly fewer trains after 11:00pm. Get from Schiphol to Amsterdam under 20 minutes The train is your smartest and fastest choice. You can get from the airport to the center of Amsterdam in under 20 minutes. Amsterdam Central station is located at the heart of the city, close to the famous Dam Square and Kalverstraat. The airport sprinter runs between Amsterdam CS, Sloterdijk, Lelylaan, Schiphol Airport and Hoofddorp, and is usually faster (and cheaper) than taxis or cars. If you want to visit Amsterdam, buy an Amsterdam Travel Ticket. It allows you to make unlimited use of the train and bus to and from Schiphol, and all trams, metros and buses in the city centre for up to 24 hours. Where can you buy a train ticket? There are ticket machines close to platform 1 and Starbucks. You can also pay with your bank card, credit card or mobile phone by checking in at the public transport check-in points. At Schiphol these can be found at the top of the stairs/escalators to the platform and near the lift at Schiphol Plaza. A train ticket to Amsterdam Central is not expensive, approximately 5.20€ one way at the time of writing. If you use your bank card or mobile phone, don’t forget to check out once you are in Amsterdam. Are you boarding a ship at the Passenger Terminal? You are an easy 20 minute walk away or 4 minute taxi ride away. You can buy a ticket for public transport at the airport from the blue/gray Public Transport Tickets machines. These are located at the baggage belts of Arrivals 1, 2 and 3 and at Schiphol Plaza. You can buy a ticket for a single trip or various 1, 2 or 3-day travel tickets. Is the train accessible? The airport sprinter between Schiphol and Amsterdam has a level entrance. You can easily get on and off the train, even if you are less mobile or have a lot of baggage with you. No big steps to get onto the train! You also don’t have to worry about waiting long – the train leaves every eight minutes. Final Thoughts Public transportation in Amsterdam is quick and easy to use. Enjoy your visit! Wondering how to best pack your carry-on bag? You might find these packing tips helpful. Essential Travel Items for Your Carry-On Bag Do you have travel insurance for your next cruise? The best day to buy it is the day you book so get it now. Insubuy has policies for all travelers. Have you booked your excursions yet? Check out my recommended provider. Stay up-to-date on all the Cruise News: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Ascent Cruisers Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise and travel even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission – at no extra cost to you — if you click on the link and purchase anything from these trusted companies. It helps Zest4Travel, a small business, stay in business. Thanks for your support!
Category Archives: Packing & Planning
Prepare for REAL ID Requirements: Your Travel Checklist
Starting May 7, 2025, state-issued driver’s licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports for domestic travel. Passengers should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, like a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices. Travelers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance, may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening. This includes TSA PreCheck passengers. Acceptable ID The list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. TSA strongly encourages you check this list again before traveling, so you do not arrive at the airport without acceptable ID. REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles. A temporary driver’s license is not an acceptable form of identification. State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID) U.S. passport U.S. passport card DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST) U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents Permanent resident card Border crossing card An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs) HSPD-12 PIV card Foreign government-issued passport Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766) U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) Don’t have your acceptable ID? The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, where you may be subject to additional screening. You will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if you choose to not provide acceptable identification, you decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or your identity cannot be confirmed. Expired ID TSA currently accepts expired ID up to two years after expiration, for the above listed forms of identification. Children TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. Contact the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travelers under 18. Names with suffixes TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and ID. Suffixes are not required on boarding passes. If there is a suffix on the boarding pass, and there is not one on the ID or vice versa, that is considered an acceptable variation. What to do if you don’t have a REAL ID? Don’t panic. The good news is there’s about a two-year “wiggle room period” that gives airports discretion, on a case-by-case basis, to subject travelers to additional screening instead of requiring a REAL ID. You could still be turned away, but systems are expected to allow passage with extra screening. Expect delays if you don’t have the proper form of identification. Do I need real ID for my cruise? For cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port, you don’t need a REAL ID to board the ship. You can use either a passport, a birth certificate accompanied by a state-issued photo ID, or a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license. However, if your cruise requires you to fly to the cruise port, you will need REAL ID or an accepted form of documentation. Let’s connect: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission – at no extra cost to you — if you click on the link and purchase anything from these trusted companies, it helps Zest4Travel, a small business, stay in business. Thanks for your support!
Pregnancy and Cruising: Tips for Expectant Mothers
Thinking of taking a cruise while you’re expecting? It’s a great idea! This is the opportunity to relax and enjoy some time before your life is changed by a new bundle of joy. Be aware however, cruise lines do have pregnancy policies in place, and most do not allow passengers who are farther along than 23-24 weeks. Below, you can find a reference list of cruise line pregnancy policies. Be sure to confirm these with your cruise line at the time of booking, Restrictions are subject to change. This post contains affiliate links, if you click and buy a product, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Can you cruise while pregnant? If you have a healthy pregnancy, then going on a cruise vacation is a lovely way to celebrate the upcoming addition to your family. That being said, it’s always safer to talk to your doctor before traveling, especially if you’ve had any issues with your pregnancy in the past. Carnival Cruise Line – Pregnant women are only allowed to sail if pregnant for less than twenty-four completed weeks at time of cruise disembarkation. All pregnant women are required to produce a physician’s letter stating that mother and baby are in good health and fit to travel, and that the pregnancy is not high-risk. The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery (EDD). MSC Cruises – MSC and/or the Carriers do not have on board any of the cruise vessels adequate medical facilities or equipment for childbirth; therefore MSC cannot accept a Booking and the Carrier cannot carry any Passenger who will be 24 weeks pregnant or more by the end of the Cruise. Norwegian Cruise Line – NCL will not accept guests who will have entered their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy by the time their travel with NCL concludes. A statement from the expectant mother’s doctor (letterhead form required), stating her due date and fitness to travel, must be sent to NCL’s Access Desk (accessdesk@ncl.com). Royal Caribbean International – Royal Caribbean International cannot accept guests who will have entered their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy by the beginning of the cruise or cruise tour. All guests are required to sign a health questionnaire at check in to ensure they are aware of Royal Caribbean’s pregnancy policy. A physician’s “Fit to Travel” note is required prior to sailing, stating how far along (in weeks) a guest’s pregnancy will be at the beginning of the cruise and confirming that the guest is in good health and not experiencing a high-risk pregnancy. The “Fit to Travel” note should be faxed to the Access Department at 1-954-628-9622. Contact RCL at 1-866-592-7225 or at special_needs@rccl.com if you have already booked a cruise or cruise tour and do not meet this requirement.Celebrity Cruises – Celebrity Cruises cannot accept guests who will have entered their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy by the beginning of the cruise or cruise tour. All guests are required to sign a health questionnaire at check in to ensure they are aware of Celebrity’s pregnancy policy. A physician’s “Fit to Travel” note is required prior to sailing, stating how far along (in weeks) the passenger’s pregnancy will be at the beginning of the cruise and confirming that she is in good health and not experiencing a high-risk pregnancy. The “Fit to Travel” note should be faxed to the Access Department at 1-954-628-9622. Contact Celebrity at 1-866-592-7225 or at special_needs@celebrity.com if you have already booked a cruise or cruise tour and do not meet this requirement. Disney Cruise Line – Women who will enter their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy during the cruise will be refused passage due to safety concerns. Neither a physician’s medical statement nor a waiver of liability will be accepted. In addition, Disney Cruise Line cannot be held responsible or liable for any complications relating to pregnancy at any stage. Holland America Line – Women cannot have begun their twenty-fourth week of pregnancy at any time before or during the cruise. Pregnant guests must provide a physician’s letter stating their expected due date and medical fitness to travel, and asserting that the pregnancy is not high-risk. You must also include your name, booking number, ship, and sailing date. Princess Cruises – Pregnant women are not allowed to sail if they are entering the twenty-fourth week of their pregnancy by the last day of the cruise. All pregnant women are required to produce a physician’s letter stating that mother and baby are in good health and fit to travel, and asserting that the pregnancy is not high-risk. The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery calculated from both last menstrual period and ultrasound (if performed), and may be faxed to the Fleet Medical Department’s confidential fax line at 1-661-753-0121. Azamara Cruises – Azamara Club Cruises cannot accept guests who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy by the beginning of, or at any time during the cruise. All guests are required to sign a health questionnaire at check-in to ensure they are aware of our pregnancy policy. Once Onboard Be sure to request extra pillows and blankets, scout out exit routes and other walkways in the area around your cabin. Have a look at your bathroom facilities before you really need to use them so you know how things work. You may also want to try on your personal flotation device (PFD) found in your cabin to ensure that it will fit you properly. If you find it is too small, ask your cabin steward for another. You may be more prone to nausea enhanced by the ship’s motion. To minimize problems associated with seasickness, try to book a larger ship (more than 1,000 passengers) and a mid-level, mid-ship cabin. These tend to be more stable and do better in rough weather should you encounter it. Ships will normally be staffed with both a doctor and nurse. (Note that ships’ medical personnel charge a fee for their services.) Make sure to discuss your cruise and related travel plans with your doctor. Ask about various seasickness medications orContinueContinue reading “Pregnancy and Cruising: Tips for Expectant Mothers”
ETIAS for Cruise Passengers: What You Need to Know
This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Planning a cruise that stops or begins in Europe? You need to be aware of an important travel update regarding ETIAS for cruise passengers. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is currently expected to launch in late 2026, introducing a new pre-travel requirement for visitors from visa-exempt countries, including those from the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. This is not a visa. ETIAS is an entry authorization that must be obtained before travel. If your cruise itinerary includes ports in France, Spain, Italy, Norway, or any other Schengen country, you will need to secure ETIAS approval before you set sail. As of now, this is what we know and what we expect will happen. What is ETIAS and Why Do Cruise Passengers Need It? ETIAS is a digital travel authorisation, which is similar to the US ESTA or UK ETA. It applies to visitors from visa-exempt countries and is designed to enhance border security while maintaining smooth entry into the Schengen Area. If your cruise stops in any Schengen and most EU countries, you must obtain ETIAS approval before arrival. This includes: Cruise passengers disembarking in Schengen ports, even if it is only for a short visit. Travelers flying into a Schengen country before or after their cruise. Tourists, business travelers, and transit passengers planning a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. ETIAS will be valid for three years (or until your passport expires) and allows for multiple entries, but it does not replace a visa. Travelers who require a Schengen visa must still apply for one separately. ETIAS Launch: When Will It Take Effect? The rules of travel to Europe have changed. Starting six months after EES, travelers from 59 visa-exempt countries and territories are required to have a travel authorization to enter most European countries. Late 2026 is the current projected launch date, the introduction of ETIAS has already faced multiple delays. The system was originally planned for 2021, then postponed several times. The latest timeline suggests ETIAS will be implemented after the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) is fully operational, which is expected in late 2025. Given these delays, further postponements remain a possibility. As of now, we expect ETIAS to launch sometime in 2026, but travelers should monitor official EU sources for the most up-to-date information. You can sign up for updates on the official ETIAS website here: ETIAS ETIAS vs. UK ETA – Do You Need Both for Your Cruise? For cruise passengers sailing the British Isles, it is important to understand the different entry requirements based on where your cruise stops: ETIAS covers Schengen and most EU countries (e.g., France, Spain, Norway, Netherlands). The UK ETA is required for non-visa nationals visiting England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The Republic of Ireland is NOT part of either ETIAS or the UK ETA. What Do You Need for Ireland? The Republic of Ireland has its own immigration rules, separate from both the UK and the Schengen Area: US, Canadian, Australian, and New Zealand passport holders do NOT need a visa to visit Ireland for tourism. UK ETA does NOT apply to Ireland—it only applies to the UK (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). ETIAS does NOT apply to Ireland, as Ireland is not in the Schengen Area. If your cruise includes stops in Ireland, the UK, and Schengen countries, you may need: ETIAS (for Schengen stops like France, Spain, or the Netherlands). UK ETA (for UK stops like Scotland, Northern Ireland, or England). No additional authorization for the Republic of Ireland (for visa-exempt travelers). To learn more about the UK ETA and its impact on cruise travel, check out the guide: UK ETA: Essential Guide for Cruise Travelers How to Apply for ETIAS Applying for ETIAS for Schengen travel is expected to be simple and fully online.: Visit the official ETIAS website – ETIAS Official Site Complete the application – Enter passport details, travel plans, and answer security questions. Pay the €20 application fee – (applicants under 18 or over 70 are exempt from the fee but will still need to apply). This has recently increased from the original expected cost of €7. (updated July 21, 2025) Receive approval – Most applications are expected to be processed within minutes, though some may take up to 30 days. Cruise Passengers – What You Need to Know Cruise lines will begin to check for ETIAS approval before boarding when it becomes active– much like airlines verify visas. Apply in advance to avoid issues. While most approvals are expected to be instant, some may take longer. ETIAS is not a visa, but failure to obtain one will result in denied boarding or entry refusal. Avoid ETIAS Scams Scams have already begun to show up online. Fraudulent websites may charge excessive fees, collect personal information, or even issue fake approvals that will not be valid for travel. To avoid falling victim: Only apply through the official ETIAS website. It must end in .eu and have the logo shown above. Be cautious of third-party services claiming to expedite approval. Most applications are expected to be processed quickly, so fast-track services are unnecessary. Our approvals took less than one hour. Never pay more than €20 – If a website charges more, it is probably a scam. Check for official EU branding and website domains. The correct website will always end in .eu ETIAS vs EES The EES is an automated system that replaces physical passport stamps for non-EU visitors to the Schengen Area. ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization for travelers from visa-exempt countries who plan short stays in the Schengen Area. You can learn more about the differences and how they will affect travel here. ETIAS vs EES: Essential Updates for Traveling to Europe Plan Ahead for Smooth Sailing ETIAS for cruise passengers isContinueContinue reading “ETIAS for Cruise Passengers: What You Need to Know”
UK ETA: Essential Guide for Cruise Travelers
Planning a cruise to the UK? Learn everything cruise travelers need to know about the UK ETA, including who needs one, current requirements, cost, how to apply, validity, scam warnings, and important 2026 updates.
How to Enjoy a Cruise with Your Toddler: A Complete Guide
Traveling with a toddler can be overwhelming. After all, toddlers are restless on flights, don’t adjust well to new bedtime routines, and can be very picky eaters. This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. For these reasons, maybe you’re hesitant to book a cruise with a toddler. Truth is, taking a toddler on a cruise is easier and more fun than you might expect. Chances are, after sailing with your little one(s) for the first time, it wouldn’t be surprising if taking a family cruise becomes a yearly tradition. After all, cruises are the perfect opportunity for multigenerational family members to bond. Spend the day together at the pool, sign up for any number of group activities, and enjoy nightly family meals in the dining room or buffet. Let the grandparents play with the kids for a few hours while you get a massage, take a nap or spend some time onshore together. Of course, there are still many factors to consider before booking your next cruise vacation for your family. What is the best kind of stateroom to the which excursions do you want to take, here is everything you need to know about taking a toddler on a cruise. How old should a child be to go on a cruise? Infants must be at least 6 months old in order to be able to travel on most cruises. For transatlantic cruises, transpacific cruises, and some cruises to South America, as well as cruises with three or more consecutive days at sea, children must be at least 12 months old. What are some of the best cruises for toddlers? Cruising with your toddler for the first time? These are some of the best cruises to book. Cruises with departure ports close to your home city Taking a flight before boarding a cruise with a toddler can be taxing on both kids and parents. By picking a departure port close to home, you will be able to decrease travel time before your cruise begins, ensuring a smoother trip once you do take off on your actual vacation. If you don’t live near a departure port, consider arriving a day or two prior to embarkation. This gives you the chance to stock up on some travel essentials like diapers, their favorite snacks, and sunscreen. Another idea is to break the trip into shorter travel days. No one likes long days traveling in a car. Shorter cruises If you’re taking your first cruise with a toddler, why not try a shorter itinerary (3-4 days)? See how your little one adapts to the sea. If your toddler has traveled well on a cruise before, go ahead and book a longer itinerary (7-10 days), but choose one with multiple port stops and few consecutive days at sea in order to avoid seasickness, boredom and to allow more opportunities for activities on land. Cruises with family-friendly destinations Some ports are more family-oriented than others. For example, little ones might not find a European city tour as interesting as a day swimming with dolphins in the Bahamas or going to Tivoli Gardens in Amsterdam. Be sure to explore family friendly excursions and destinations before deciding on which cruise you’ll ultimately embark on. If you have older children, involve them in the planning process too. Are cruises fun with toddlers? Of course they are! Cruises are fun for kids of all ages, and there are plenty of activities to .keep your toddlers entertained. Kids under the age of 3 can enjoy Toddler Time at the ship’s playroom, They will be able to play with educational toys and interact with other kids around their age. Parental supervision is required, but children don’t have to be potty trained in order to participate. Certain toys and books will also be available to check out and bring back to your stateroom. Potty-trained kids over 3 can participate in the ship’s kids club. Open every day, these centers offer activities for kids with all kinds of interests, Xbox tournaments, culinary experiences, and art programs. You can rest easy that they are being taken care of while you get to enjoy some alone time. It’s a win-win situation for everyone. What should I pack for my toddler on a cruise? Preparation is key when traveling with a toddler on a cruise. We recommend packing the following essentials in your suitcase. Essential Packing Tips for Cruising with Young Children What’s the best stateroom for families cruising with a toddler? The type of stateroom you choose depends on your personal preference and budget. While all staterooms are family friendly, there are some advantages if you decide to book a higher category of stateroom on your cruise while traveling with children. Veranda Stateroom Parents traveling with toddlers may want to book a veranda stateroom. This type of cabin gives adults a little more in-room flexibility. Kids tend to go to bed earlier and a veranda stateroom allows parents to sit outside and still keep an eye on the kids. Just because they have an early bedtime doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the view—and maybe even a glass of wine. Oceanview Stateroom For parents of rowdier toddlers who might prefer to book a room without a balcony, an ocean view staterooms offers you peace of mind and large windows to take in the view outside. Suites If you prefer to cruise in a more spacious and exclusive stateroom, a suite is your best bet. Many suites offer private bedrooms, living areas, and outside verandas. They also include concierge service—which might come in handy if you’re having a particularly difficult day with the kids, plus access to VIP areas of the ship, and plenty of space for active toddlers who like to move around. What will my child eat on a cruise? What to feed a toddler on a cruise ship can be worrisome for parents of picky eaters. Luckily, cruises make it easy. In the main diningContinueContinue reading “How to Enjoy a Cruise with Your Toddler: A Complete Guide”
Ultimate Guide to Packing for a British Isles Cruise
Cruising around the United Kingdom and Ireland offers an incredible mix of historic castles, dramatic coastlines, and vibrant cities—along with some of the most unpredictable weather in the world! From sunny afternoons in Dublin to brisk, misty mornings along the Scottish Highlands, preparing for “four seasons in one day” is the key to a comfortable voyage.
The secret to mastering your British Isles suitcase isn’t overpacking bulky coats; it’s smart layering, waterproof outerwear, and reliable walking shoes for cobblestone streets. From essential rain gear and plug adapters to daily shore excursion must-haves, here is your complete 2026 packing checklist for a seamless journey…
Essential Guide: Celebrity Cruises Wi-Fi: Packaged, pricing & What You Need to Know
Celebrity Cruises Wi-Fi explained: Compare packages, pricing, speeds, streaming options, and what’s included so you can choose the right plan for your cruise.
Port Canaveral: Complete Guide to Orlando Airport, Shuttle Options and Hotels
Port Canaveral Cruise Port Guide: Find out about parking, hotels, transportation, cruise terminals, and everything you need for a smooth cruise departure.
It’s a Port Day – What You Need to Know
Let’s take a look at everything you need….and how to save money. There may be a few things included that you haven’t thought of. This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. First, let’s go over the basics. You will need your sea pass card and a photo ID. There are some who say to take your passport with you, but unless the country you are visiting requires it, LEAVE IT IN THE SAFE! Theft does occur and you DO NOT want your passport stolen. If something happens and you miss the ship, the ship’s security will retrieve your passport from your cabin and leave it with the port authority who will assist you in making further travel arrangements. Money and/or credit cards. Many countries are becoming cashless societies, especially in Europe. Credit cards such as Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted.. American Express is harder to use outside the USA. If you really feel the need to have some cash with you, use an ATM onshore to obtain a small amount. Be sure to let your bank or card issuer know you will be traveling and where. It is smart to carry all ID and credit cards in an RFID protected case. This will prevent scanners from stealing your information. Or, use an RFID blocking card in your wallet. Disembarking the ship The ship will either be docked at a pier or there will be a tender service from the ship. Tendering is very easy. If you have book an excursion through the ship, you will be given tender tickets indicating time and location to meet. You will then be escorted to the tender. If you are going ashore on your own, meet in the designated area (this will be noted on the daily planner or on an information sheet left in your cabin). Some cabin types and cruise line loyalty levels will have different meeting locales. You will be issued a tender ticket at that point. Wait until your number is called and then proceed to the tender. If you have arranged a private excursion early in the day, be sure to arrive to your designated area early….tender lines can be long. If you are not in a rush to get off the ship, the tendering process will become quicker later in the day, as fewer people will be trying to leave the ship. Be sure to not take any fresh food (fruit, sandwiches, etc) with you off the ship. Bottled water, drinks and prepackaged snacks are fine. When exiting the ship, take note of the required return time. This is usually 30 minutes prior to sail away. Lines to return to the ship may be long, but you will not be left behind if you arrive to the departure area prior to the last scheduled tender back to the ship. If the ship is docked at the pier, join the cue to depart the ship. Again…make note of the required return time. The ship WILL LEAVE without you! What Type of Bag is Best? As you prepare for your cruise and are starting to pack, it’s a good idea to think about your shore excursion bag. What you put in it will depend on the type of activity you’re planning to do while in port. If you’re going to the beach or a boating excursion, you will want a few different things than if you’re zip-lining through the jungle, sightseeing or shopping. Packing a Beach Excursion Bag If you are heading to the beach, you want to make sure to bring everything you will need to enjoy the day. You don’t want to be on the beach or on a snorkeling excursion and realize you forgot the sunscreen! Of course, you can borrow (hopefully) from a stranger, but best to be prepared with your essentials. I recently found this great beach bag. The main compartment is spacious enough to fit swimsuits, a change of clothes, beach toys and other essentials. The long zipper closure helps to prevent items from falling out and there are holders on the outside for beach towels. You can also unzip the bottom to remove any sand that gets inside! And there are more pockets than I know what to do with. These are the essential items to pack in your beach bag: beach towels…..the ship will provide beach towels to use while onshore. A good beach blanket water-proof and reef safe sunscreen lip balm water or reusable water bottles bathing suit cover up wide brimmed sun hat or baseball cap sunglasses towels bands water shoes (many beaches are rocky or are covered in shells) sand removal tool Daily planner from your cruise ship (with all aboard time!) or take a photo *Remember, many beaches around the world are asking snorkelers and swimmers to use reef safe sunscreen Optional items for your beach bag: book or other reading material snorkeling mask snorkeling fins anti-theft vault (popular with cruisers and beach goers) children’s sand toys if you have kids or just like playing in the sand Going swimming and want to keep your ID, phone and money safe? A waterproof holder is an excellent choice. Bring a Backpack for Active Shore Excursions If you’re going to be active on your port day, bring a bag that keeps your hand free. This crossbody bag is extremely popular with cruisers and travlers. Slash proof and RFID protected, it is slim enough to fit under jackets or coats. Available in several colors. comfortable walking shoes or sandals hat to keep the sun off your face good quality water bottle sunscreen bug repellent If you’re sightseeing on your own or on an organized tour, you can skip all the beach stuff and just bring some basics to keep comfortable during your day onshore. If you are planning to go shopping while in port, a bag (with a zipper) is very convenient. IContinueContinue reading “It’s a Port Day – What You Need to Know”