Smooth Sailing at the Cruise Ship Dock

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Arriving at a cruise ship only to be told you can’t get on board is the stuff of bad dreams – but it can and does happen. Cruise lines may deny boarding for a number of reasons, but many of them are easily avoided. Here are some of the most common reasons for denial of boarding:

Lack of documentation. When you make your cruise reservation, ask your professional travel advisor what documents you will need to bring with you. Then, make sure you have all the right documents, which may include a passport or other government-issued identification, a birth certificate, and any required visas. Note that the cruise line may require your passport or ID to be valid for at least six months from the day you return to your home country.

Being ill. Health screening practices vary between cruise lines, but you may be asked to complete a health questionnaire, have your temperature taken, or be tested for contagious diseases before or when you arrive for boarding. Anyone who shows signs and symptoms of illness may be denied. Be sure to follow your cruise line’s pre-boarding health and safety protocols, and to keep it up after you get on board.

Prohibited items. Packing items that are banned by the cruise line – such as weapons, certain drugs, or fireworks – can result in denial of boarding.

Arriving late. Cruise ship boarding times are strictly enforced, and those who show up late may be denied boarding.

Unpaid balance. It’s best to pay any balance due for a cruise before leaving home.

Criminal record. Some cruise lines reserve the right to deny boarding to anyone who has been convicted of a crime.

Disruptive behavior. Behaving in a way that could affect the safety and comfort of passengers or crew may be grounds for denial of boarding.

Third-trimester pregnancy. Most cruise lines deny boarding to passengers who are 24 weeks or more into pregnancy. This is for the safety of mothers and babies; cruise ships are not well-equipped to handle pre-term births. Passengers at earlier stages of pregnancy should provide the cruise line with a physician’s letter stating they are okay to travel.

As we mentioned, many reasons for denial of boarding are easily avoided – although illness can’t always be prevented. This is a good reason to look into travel insurance that would cover the cost of the cruise if you fall ill and can’t get on board. Ask Anita, your professional travel advisor, for details.

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