Boarding

Last year, for our transatlantic cruise, we arrived at the cruise port about an hour before 4pm, the time specified by the cruise line for embarkation. Ann wanted to arrive earlier, but I didn't want to end up waiting in a sunny parking lot for entry to the boarding centre. As it turned out, many people had arrived before we did, so this year I deferred to Ann (I'm not always this smart) and we arrived just after noon. Sure enough, we checked our suitcases with baggage handlers in the parking lot, started the embarkation process. Within less than 15 minutes, we were on board, and were able to enter our cabin which was already prepared. We enjoyed the buffet lunch in the cafeteria and spent most of the afternoon in our cabin, watching the rain storms pass by. Although we had requested the first seating for dinner (5:30pm), they had booked us for the second seating when we arrived on board. After lunch, we were able to meet with the Maitre d'Hotel to change to the first seating. (The second seating is at 8pm which is too late for us. We like to finish dinner and go to the theatre for the daily performance at 8pm).

In any event, we had a relaxing afternoon on the ship, and headed for dinner at 5:30pm. They had not assigned anyone else to our table, but after 45 minutes, a British couple arrived who had just arrived on board after their flight landed in Miami. They are experienced cruisers, so it's always helpful to learn about others' experiences and tips.

The ship pulled away from the dock a few minutes after 7pm and we were on our way. It was dark and showery outside, so we didn't bother going outside to watch, especially since we had done that in the sunshine last year.