The process of leaving the ship is a bit different from checking-out of a normal hotel. If it's your first cruise, or it's been a while since your last one, learn about the disembarkation process with me.  

Cruise lines have similar disembarkation procedures with minor differences, be sure to check with your specific line for the details. Of course, when you book your cruise with Hurry Back Vacations, we'll make sure you have the information you need! 

Disembarkation Instructions
Your cabin attendant will leave disembarkation instructions in your cabin a few days before departure. The instructions will include what to do with your luggage, the approximate time disembarkation will begin, and some customs information if needed. Be sure to read these instructions so you aren't caught off guard. 

Disembarking begins on the last night of your cruise.
You will pack up your "checked" luggage again and place the luggage outside of your cabin on the last night of your cruise. The cruise line will provide you with luggage tags to attach to your bags. The tags will have a color or character (Disney!). This color or character will be called when it's your turn to leave the ship and then you'll use the same to find your luggage in the cruise terminal. Take a photo of your luggage and the tags to help you remember the information. Plan ahead and ensure everyone has a bag to carry the essentials - check out our article about packing your carry-on/off bag for a cruise!  

"Walk-Off" or "Self-Assist" Disembarkation
If you want to carry your own luggage off the ship, this is an option. Passengers choose this when they want to be off the ship quickly and not wait to collect their luggage. The crew will announce when passengers carrying their own luggage can start disembarking. 

Settle Your On-Board Account
It is a good idea to keep an eye on your account during your cruise, I like to check mine each day. That way, if there is a problem, you can address it quickly with Guest Services. If you have a credit card on file for on-board charges, your account should settle automatically. Occasionally, there may be an issue charging your card. Guest Services will notify you by leaving a message on your stateroom phone or sending you a message in their app. Make sure you stop by and settle your account before disembarking or you will be stopped on your way off the ship. This also applies if you decided to pay your account with cash instead of having a card on file. 

If you want a copy of your charges, be sure to get one printed out from Guest Services or save screenshots from the app. Surprisingly, most lines don't allow you to access this information once you leave the ship.

Take time to write Cruise Staff Appreciation Cards
It may surprise you to know that cruise lines actually use these feedback cards to reward staff. If you have received excellent service (or not), be sure to get the crew members full name and then take the time to complete the cards & turn them in. You don't have to wait until the last day for this one, but it is your last chance! 

When do I have to leave my Cabin?
This varies by sailing however, if your ship arrives at the port early in the morning, they usually want everyone out of their rooms by 9 a.m. This is why getting everything ready the night before is essential. 

Where to have Breakfast
Some cruise lines, like Disney assign you a restaurant and time to eat on the last morning. However, most lines have the buffet as the only option for breakfast (except for concierge passengers). After breakfast, find a place to wait in a common area until your luggage tag is called. 

What time will I leave the Ship?
The crew will begin the disembarkation process as soon as the ship is cleared by customs. This is usually a smooth process and walk-off passengers can start leaving by 8 a.m. However, the reason the cruise lines do not guarantee a time you'll be off ship is because of things like port closures, staffing issues, weather, customs delays, etc. If you're headed straight to the airport, check the port for recommended flight times and give yourself extra time if you're travelling internationally. If you happen to get to the airport with time to spare, ask your airline if you can standby for an earlier flight. 

Scanning Out
Sad face, it's time to leave the ship for the last time. Hold on to that cruise key card, - you will use it to scan off the ship one more time, just like you did when you got off the ship at the ports. 

Finding your Luggage
Once you're in the cruise terminal,  find your luggage using the information from your luggage tag and head to the customs line.

Customs
Have those passports or other identity documents ready to go and it should be a pretty easy process lasting 10 - 15 minutes, including waiting in line.