Cruise Holidays - Attheta Travel

I am proud to be certified by CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) as an Elite Cruise Counselor. The Cruise Counselor Certification Program is CLIA's most comprehensive training which requires agents to successfully complete a number of compulsory training courses and exams, attend cruise conferences, and conduct ship inspections. Anita Thompson, Attheta Travel, dba Cruise Holidays.

Monday, September 16, 2024

If Your Luggage Doesn’t Board the Ship With You

After you spend time carefully packing for a cruise, it’s distressing if your luggage goes astray somewhere between your home and your cruise ship cabin. While we hope this never happens to you, you should know what to expect and what to do in this unfortunate situation.

To help avoid a lost luggage event, use at least one way to track your luggage. For example, download your airline’s mobile app and use its luggage-tracking feature. Many travelers also place small tracking devices in their luggage – these devices can share their exact location with your mobile device. And even when you use these precautions, be sure to pack an extra outfit – plus essential paperwork and prescription medication – in a carry-on bag that will stay with you.

After you fly to your departure city, If your luggage doesn’t appear on the baggage claim carousel, look around; airport staff may have set it aside. If not, go to the baggage service desk for the airline you arrived on and show your luggage claim tickets. If you put tracking devices in your luggage, open the tracking app and share that information with the baggage service representative, too.

If your luggage is on a different flight and will arrive before you board the ship, give the baggage service representative details on where to deliver it.

If your luggage won’t arrive before the ship departs, provide details about the cruise itinerary; hopefully, the airline can deliver your luggage to a port of call. Then, when you board the ship, visit the guest services desk and let the staff know you’re expecting your luggage to be delivered to the ship. Ask them if they can connect with the airline’s baggage service to keep tabs on the situation for you.

It doesn’t happen often, but if your luggage comes to the dock with you yet doesn’t show up in your cabin, visit guest services. If your luggage isn’t found onboard, ask for assistance such as free laundry services, complimentary t-shirts and toiletries, and discounts at onboard or onshore shops.

Sailing without your luggage is not ideal, but the airline, cruise line, or your travel insurance provider may cover at least some of the related costs. Be careful to keep any paperwork, emails, and texts you receive, as well as receipts for anything you buy to replace what was in your luggage. And, check in with Anita, your professional travel advisor for additional advice.

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