Missed the boat? What to do if you're late for your cruise ship

Mistakes happen, and despite the most meticulous planning, you might find yourself still on dry land while your cruise ship sails into the horizon. 

While this can be stressful, it’s not the end of the world.

Here’s how to avoid missing your ship, how to prepare for such a situation, and what to do if you do get left behind.

Choose excursions wisely

Excursions can be the highlight of any cruise, but they also pose a risk if not planned carefully. 

Booking a ship-sponsored excursion is the safest option because if the tour runs late, the ship will either wait for you or the cruise line will arrange transport to the next port.

However, if you choose a private excursion, be aware that the ship is not obligated to wait for you. 

Some exceptions may be made if a large number of passengers are on the same tour, but there are no guarantees. To minimise risk, ensure they have a good track record for punctuality, and plan to return at least an hour before the ship’s departure time.

Prepare for the worst:

Even with the best planning, unexpected delays can happen. Here’s how to prepare in advance:

Keep a list of important contact numbers

• Have your cruise line’s customer service number, the port agent’s contact information, and your travel insurance details handy.
• Keep your passport in an accessible place. If you miss the ship, the crew will leave your passport with the port staff so you can travel to the next destination. 
• If the cruise line collects passports upon embarkation, they will retrieve it from your stateroom. Keeping it somewhere visible, like on the desk or in the room safe, will make it easier for the crew to locate it.

What to do if you miss your cruise

Make phone calls immediately

As soon as you realise you’ve missed the ship, start making calls. Contact your cruise ship to inform them of your whereabouts and discuss how to meet up at the next port. 

You may also need to call the cruise line’s customer service department to arrange accommodations and travel to the next destination.

Seek assistance from the port agent: Each cruise line has a port agent at every stop. If you’re left behind, head straight to the port staff for help. They can give you your passport, help you communicate with your ship, and provide guidance on the next steps.

Contact your travel insurance provider: Travel insurance can be a lifesaver in these situations. Policies often include benefits for missed connections and travel delays, which can cover the cost of new travel arrangements, meals, and accommodations. 

If your flight to the departure port was delayed and caused you to miss embarkation, the missed connection benefit can help you catch up with the cruise at the next stop.

While missing a cruise ship is stressful, proper preparation can help you handle the situation efficiently.

IOL Travel