Hey there fellow cruisers! Are you planning a Princess cruise and looking for some helpful tips to make your boarding process a breeze? Well, look no further because I have got you covered! As a seasoned Princess cruiser, I have learned a thing or two about boarding and I am excited to share my knowledge with you.
In this article, I will be sharing some insider tips on everything from selecting your arrival time to using the MedallionClass app. Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned veteran, these tips will help ensure that your embarkation goes as smoothly as possible.
Plus, who doesn’t love a stress-free start to their vacation? So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about Princess cruise boarding tips, because trust me, you don’t want to miss out on these.
- The earliest boarding time for Princess cruises is typically 11 am for the first boarding group, with priority boarding available for certain guests such as Platinum or Elite Captains Circle Members and Suite Guests.
- Guests with special needs or mobility issues must call Princess cruises 30 days before departure to arrange for early boarding, and arrival times are selected via the MedallionClass app 30-45 days before departure on a first-come, first-served basis.
- All-aboard time is around one hour before the ship’s departure time, and missed all-aboard time means not being allowed to board the ship.
- The MedallionClass app can be used to select arrival time, but standing in line may be necessary without the app, and guests should check the app daily from 45 days before boarding to select the earliest arrival time.
Boarding Time Options
I can choose my arrival time for a Princess cruise via the MedallionClass app 30-45 days before departure. This is a great feature that allows me to select the earliest possible time to board the ship.
However, it’s important to note that priority boarding is available for certain guests like Platinum or Elite Captains Circle Members, Suite Guests, Guests With Special Needs, and Bon Voyage Experience Guests. If I arrive before my designated time, I may end up waiting outside the terminal building until my group is called.
That’s why it’s crucial to check the app daily from 45 days before boarding and select the earliest arrival time possible. Boarding group eligibility is determined on a first-come, first-served basis, so the earlier I arrive, the better my chances of being in the first group.
The benefits of early boarding include having more time to explore the ship, avoiding long lines at check-in, and securing the best seats at shows and restaurants.
Priority Boarding
Platinum or Elite Captains Circle Members, Suite Guests, and those with special needs can enjoy the benefit of boarding the ship earlier than other guests. This means that they can avoid the long lines and wait times that other guests may experience.
Here are some ways to qualify for priority boarding:
- Become a Platinum or Elite Captains Circle Member: If you’ve sailed with Princess Cruises before, you may qualify for Platinum or Elite status, which comes with a range of benefits, including priority boarding.
- Book a Suite: Guests staying in a suite can also enjoy the benefit of priority boarding, which is just one of the many perks of booking a luxurious suite.
- Have Special Needs: Guests with special needs or mobility issues can call Princess Cruises 30 days before departure to arrange for early boarding. This ensures that they have the time and assistance they need to board the ship comfortably.
The benefits of priority boarding for Princess Cruises are numerous. Not only can you avoid the long lines and wait times, but you can also settle into your room earlier and start enjoying all the amenities the ship has to offer. With more time to explore the ship and get settled, you can start your cruise off on the right foot and make the most of your vacation.
Arrival Time Selection
Using the MedallionClass app, I highly recommend guests to select their preferred time of arrival for their Princess cruise up to 45 days before departure. This is one of the best practices to ensure a smooth and stress-free boarding experience.
The app allows guests to choose from half-hour windows starting from 11 am to around 3 pm. It’s important to note that arrival times are on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to select the earliest possible arrival time to avoid waiting outside the terminal building.
Here are some tips and tricks when using the app for arrival time selection: check the app daily from 45 days before boarding to select your preferred time, and keep an eye out for any cancellations that may become available two to three days before the cruise.
Also, arriving before your designated arrival time may result in waiting outside the terminal building until your group is called. By following these best practices, you can make the most out of your Princess cruise and avoid unnecessary stress.
Special Needs Accommodations
Guests with special needs or mobility issues can ensure a comfortable and stress-free boarding experience by arranging for early boarding with Princess cruises 30 days before departure. This allows for extra time to navigate the terminal, settle in the cabin, and explore the ship’s accessible facilities.
Princess Cruises offers a range of accommodations for guests with special needs, including accessible staterooms, wheelchair-friendly gangways, and priority seating in theaters and restaurants.
When requesting accommodations, it’s important to provide detailed information about any specific needs or requirements. Princess Cruises recommends contacting their Accessible Shore Excursion Desk to discuss any accessible shore excursions, and to check with the medical staff on board regarding any special dietary requirements or medical equipment needs.
With early boarding and accommodations in place, guests with special needs can relax and enjoy all the amenities and experiences that Princess Cruises has to offer.
All-Aboard Time
I need to make sure I know the all-aboard time for my Princess Cruise so I don’t miss the ship’s departure. Here are some tips for not missing all aboard time:
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Arrive at the terminal at least an hour before the all-aboard time to give yourself enough time to check in and go through security.
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Keep track of the time and listen for announcements about the all-aboard time. Set reminders on your phone or watch to ensure you stay on schedule.
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If you do happen to miss the all-aboard time, contact the ship’s staff immediately to see if they can make arrangements for you to catch up with the ship at the next port.
During the all-aboard period, there are several ways to spend your time. You can explore the terminal, grab a bite to eat, or relax in a lounge area. Some terminals may even have entertainment or activities to keep you occupied. Just make sure to keep an eye on the time and stay close to the boarding area to avoid missing the ship’s departure.
MedallionClass App
Navigating the MedallionClass app can be a bit tricky, but once you get the hang of it, it’s like having a personal concierge in your pocket. The app allows you to select your preferred arrival time for boarding the ship, which can save you a lot of time and hassle.
However, there are some pros and cons to using the app.
One of the pros is that you can select your arrival time in advance, which can help you avoid long lines and waiting times at the port. Additionally, the app allows you to access real-time information about the ship, such as dining options, entertainment schedules, and activities.
On the other hand, the user experience may not be as smooth for everyone. Some users have reported difficulty with installing and using the app, and some may prefer to simply stand in line and wait for their turn to board.
Ultimately, whether or not to use the app is a personal preference, but it’s worth exploring if you want to streamline your boarding experience.
Transportation Considerations
When planning my transportation to the port, it’s important to consider the specific cruise I’ve booked and whether or not shuttle or transportation services are available. Some Princess Cruises provide shuttle services to and from certain airports, while others may require guests to arrange their own transportation. It’s always a good idea to check with the cruise line or travel agent to confirm what options are available for my specific cruise.
To help illustrate the different transportation considerations, I’ve created the following table:
| Cruise Name | Shuttle Availability | Airport Transportation Options |
|---|---|---|
| Caribbean Princess | Yes | Shuttle service or private car rental |
| Regal Princess | No | Taxi, Uber/Lyft, or rental car |
| Crown Princess | Yes (limited) | Shuttle service or private car rental |
Knowing the shuttle availability and airport transportation options can help me plan my arrival time and make any necessary arrangements in advance. Overall, it’s important to do my research and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and stress-free boarding experience.
Founder and Social Media
The Cruise Tips founder, Mike Schimdt, has been a valuable asset to the cruise industry since 2006. With over 20 cruises under her belt, she has a wealth of experience in planning and executing the perfect cruise holiday.
Through her social media platforms, which include Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn, she has helped over 1 million people per month plan their dream vacations. Mike’s social media strategy is like a compass guiding travelers to their ultimate vacation destination.
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What happens if I arrive after the designated all-aboard time?
If you arrive after the designated all-aboard time, you will not be allowed to board the ship and will have to make arrangements for lodging and transportation. However, there may be boarding exceptions for certain circumstances, such as medical emergencies or delayed flights.
Is there a limit to the number of early boarding groups?
To secure priority boarding, I recommend Platinum or Elite Captains Circle Membership, or booking a suite or Bon Voyage Experience. For early boarding, choose earliest arrival time and monitor app for cancellations. Benefits include avoiding long lines and enjoying ship amenities sooner.
Can I change my selected arrival time after I have submitted it?
Unfortunately, once you have submitted your selected arrival time via the MedallionClass app, you cannot change it. It’s important to arrive on time as late arrival may result in waiting outside the terminal building and missing the all-aboard time, which means not being allowed to board the ship.
How can I arrange for special accommodations if I have dietary restrictions?
Navigating dietary restrictions on a cruise can be daunting, but Princess Cruises offers special menus for various dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and low-sugar options. Medical documentation may be required, so be sure to check with the cruise line before departure.
What is the process for disembarking from the ship at the end of the cruise?
Disembarkation process begins after customs clearance and is done in groups based on flight departure times or disembarkation plans. Luggage is collected and taken to designated areas for easy pickup. I suggest packing a carry-on for essentials.