TravelDad

Thank you all. We did have to wait for our luggage and go to the bus which took some time due to lightning. They won’t unload or load bags when lighting. We were told by travel agent that our bags would go straight to ship. Not using her again. Thanks again

1.  Retrieve your bags from the airport luggage carousel once you arrive
2.  Remove the airline tags
3.  Put on the cruise line luggage tags
4. Find the Royal Caribbean representative at the airport and coordinate your ride to the ship
5. Retrieve your luggage from the bus once you get to the ship
6.  I always give the bus driver a small tip but that is optional
7.  Make SURE that you have your identification documents and your Set Sail passes in your hand and not in your luggage !
8.  Give your large luggage to the luggage handlers outside of the terminal
9.  Take your carryon luggage with you, walk into the Terminal through security and check in for the cruise

We always had to get our luggage and take it to the outside area (after baggage claim, not outside on the street) where representatives greeted us.  You need to deal with your cruise tags, too.  If you put them on too soon, they may be torn by airlines.  Or you can just bring a couple extra in the event that happens.  We pack a stapler or tape in our carry-on and add tags after we pick up our luggage at destination.  You basically never leave luggage unattended until you are told to place it by the bus, etc.   Now on the return, RCI may offer a valet service (was $20 per person last time we checked) for certain airlines.  Watch for information on that program about Day 3 or 4.

You are responsible for retrieving your luggage from the plane and carrying it to the Royal transfer bus where the bus driver will load it into the the belly of the bus.  
Before handing your luggage to the bus driver you should have your ship luggage tags on each bag.