13 Things to do on Embarkation Day (2024)

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• September 14, 2016

• Categories:Cruise Tips, Vacation Planning

On a cruise, it’s important to make each day count. That includes embarkation day! Take full advantage of your firstday on boardyour shipby doing these 13 things.

1. Explorethe Ship

Take some time to explore the ship as soon as you get onboard. You’ll want to get a feel for where things are and take note of any activities you want to try on your cruise. We recommend starting on the top deck and working your way down; Unless you’re looking to squeeze in a workout by climbing all those stairs.

2. Enjoy the Pool & Waterslides

Why wait to begin your vacation? Hop in the pool orcheck out the waterslides as soon as you board. This is one of the best times to squeeze in some serious water play since there typicallywon’t be any crowds at the pool or long lines forthe slides. Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit in your carry-on!

3.Grab Something to Eat

It’s usually about lunch time when you board the ship. Therefore, it’s common for most people to head straight to the buffet. Instead of joining the crowd,try exploring some of the other eaterieson board.Many cruise ships offer a variety of dining options on embarkation day,not just the buffet.

4. Book Shore Excursions

If you haven’t already booked your shore excursions, make sure to get that done at Guest Services as soon as you board. Spots are limited and you won’t want to miss out because you didn’t reserveit when you had the chance.

5. Reserve Seats for OnBoard Entertainment

On some ships, you may be required to reserve seats in advance for certain shows. Bookyour tickets on embarkation day so you don’t miss out on any must-see productions.

6. Take Pictures

Get those professional-looking pictures done early so you can relax and enjoy your vacation. If the weather is nice, you’ll want to head straight to the top deck to take those famous shots of your family by the ship’s railing. This may be one of the few opportunities to snap some photos before the ship becomes overrun with passengers.

7. Visit theDining Room

Did you want to dine early, but got a late seatingorwant to switch from flexible dining to set-seating? If this is the case, make sure you pay a visit to the dining room. The maitre d’ is typically available to make any changes (if possible) and answer any questions on embarkation day.

8. ArrangeSpa and Salon Appointments

The most popular spa and salon treatments tend to sell outquickly. Make sure to bookanyappointments on embarkation day.

9. Watch the Sail Away

Head up on deck for the sailaway or even view it from your balcony. There’s usually a festive celebration by the pool with live music and flowing drinks. It’s definitely a fun way to kick off your cruise.

10. Buy your Soda or Alcohol Package

Buy your soda or alcohol packages as soon as you get on board. This way you’ll get the most use out of them on your cruise. Just make sure todo your homeworkbeforehand to make surethat you’ll actually save money by purchasing one.

11. Tour the Kid’s Club

If you brought childrenaboard, make sure you check out the kid’s club. There’s usually an introductory session for kids and parents to meet the counselors and get acquainted with the facilities. Even if you’re not sure if your kids will want to go, you can still sign them up on the first day. There’s no requirement to attend.

12. Unpack Your Suitcase

Make sure youtake some time to unpack and get your luggage out of they way as soon asyour room is ready. No one wants to live out of a suitcase! Unpacking also makes the ship feel more like home.

13. Meet your Stateroom Attendant

Your stateroom attendant is the person that will be cleaning your room, making you adorable towel animals and providing turn down service for the length of your cruise. Getting to know themon your first day can be very helpful, especially if you have any special needs or requests. Taking a few minutes to have a conversation withyour stateroom attendantcan really go a long way and may even lead to some special treatment.

Want to participate inthese embarkation day activities?Jump start your vacation and get toyour cruise earlywithGo Port. We offer hotel packages with porttransfers as early as 10AM!

Photography By: Norwegian Cruise Line

• Categories:Cruise Tips, Vacation Planning

• Tags: cruise tips, embarkation