1. Prepare for Disembarkation Day

• Luggage Packing:
  • The night before disembarkation, you’ll receive luggage tags with a specific color or number corresponding to your disembarkation group.
  • Pack your checked luggage and leave it outside your stateroom door by the designated time (usually late evening). The crew will collect it and transport it to the terminal.
  • Keep a carry-on bag with essentials like travel documents, medication, and a change of clothes, as you won’t see your checked luggage until after you leave the ship.
• Settle Your Onboard Account:
  • Review your final bill, which is usually delivered to your stateroom or accessible via the cruise line’s app. Ensure all charges are correct.
  • Any outstanding balance will automatically be charged to the card on file.

2. Morning of Disembarkation

• Breakfast:
  • On disembarkation day, most dining areas (buffets or main dining rooms) will be open early for a final breakfast. Be aware of the time your group is called to leave so you can plan accordingly.
• Vacating Your Stateroom:
  • You’re typically required to leave your stateroom by a specific time (e.g., 8:00 AM). Afterward, you can wait in a designated lounge or common area until your disembarkation group is called.

3. Disembarkation Process

• Disembarkation by Groups:
  • Guests are called to leave the ship based on the color or number of their luggage tags, loyalty status, or other priorities (e.g., early flights, suites, or premium guests).
  • If you opt for self-assist disembarkation (carrying your own luggage off the ship), you’ll be among the first to disembark.
• Customs and Immigration:
  • Once off the ship, you’ll proceed through customs and immigration. Have your passport, cruise card, and customs declaration forms (if applicable) ready.
  • Some ports use facial recognition technology for a quicker process.

4. Luggage Collection

• After clearing customs, you’ll go to the luggage claim area in the terminal. Look for the section with your luggage tag color or number.
• Ensure you collect all your bags before leaving the terminal.

5. Transportation

• Arrange your transportation ahead of time:
  • Shuttle Service: Many cruise lines offer transfers to the airport or other locations.
  • Taxis/Rideshares: Look for designated pickup areas near the terminal.
  • Parking: If you drove to the port, shuttle buses or walkways will lead you to the parking area.

Optional: Post-Cruise Activities

• If you have extra time, you can explore the port city before heading home. Some cruise lines offer post-cruise excursions if your flight departs later in the day.

Tips for Smooth Disembarkation:

• Be Patient: Disembarkation can take time, especially with thousands of guests leaving the ship.
• Follow Instructions: Pay attention to announcements and instructions from the crew.
• Keep Essentials Handy: Ensure your travel documents, valuables, and anything you’ll need during the day are in your carry-on.

Once you’ve disembarked and cleared customs, your cruise vacation officially concludes.