JoeOfTheSeas Posted January 5, 2023 Report Share Posted January 5, 2023 We're going on our first cruise on Freedom this month, 3 nights from Miami, visiting CocoCay and Nassau - how does the port check in work? Where do we check the luggage? do we HAVE to print out the luggage tags at home or do they give us tags? Do we check in bags before the check in itself? Does this work like an airport where you have duty free shops area or something? Do they take our passports (and if so, when do we get them back?) and also, what should we do on our first day that is a must? Our arrival time is 11:30am-12pm Any tips for first time cruises like us would be highly appreciated! Thank you and sorry for all the questions Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ElizabethW Posted January 5, 2023 Report Share Posted January 5, 2023 Hey, Joe! Freedom was my first Royal cruise, too--way before it was amplified. When you arrive at the port, there will be porters outside who will take your luggage before entering the terminal. If you don't print your bag tags, they usually have them on hand to fill out; it definitely helps speed up the process if you bring them, though. You go through security and check in similar to how you check into a hotel (with longer lines), and while your passports are never taken and kept by the staff, they will be checked. No duty free stores or anything like that. Spend time exploring the ship when you board! It helps to get your bearings before the ship embarks. If you have children, you should look into getting them registered for the youth clubs. I like to avoid the Windjammer for lunch because it gets so crowded. You can look on the app to see what other options are available. A few at Royal Caribbean Blog are a fan of Playmakers if you're willing to pay extra. None of the onboard stores or casino will be open until after setting sail. Hope this helps and happy sailing :)! JoeOfTheSeas and CrimsonCruiser 1 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Matt Posted January 5, 2023 Report Share Posted January 5, 2023 You may find this article helpful: 30 Do's and Don'ts for the first day of your cruise JoeOfTheSeas 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FireFishII Posted January 5, 2023 Report Share Posted January 5, 2023 Welcome. Boy are you in for a treat. If you do print your luggage tags (which I strongly recommend), wrap the tags with clear shipping tape. That will keep the tags from falling apart if they get wet. Carry small bills to tip your porter. If you are with a group, you can drive up to the terminal to drop off the luggage and your passengers. Then go park. If you have purchased unlimited dining package (UDP) or Chops + 1 or 3 specialty dining package, once on board, go to the nearest specialty restaurant and make your reservations for the trip. Then start exploring the ship. Remember that your rooms won't be available until ~2 pm. So make sure you have packed your swimming suit in your carry on baggage. This way you can enjoy Flow Rider, water slides, or just the pools while you wait for your room. If you bring wine on board (2 750 ml bottles per stateroom), pack it in your carry on luggage. JoeOfTheSeas and WAAAYTOOO 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CruisingNewb Posted January 5, 2023 Report Share Posted January 5, 2023 YAY! First cruise! Congrats! The experts here have many, many tips and tricks specific to checking in. I will only add this: DO THE WORK NOW SO YOU CAN ENJOY THE CRUISE ONCE ON BOARD. Once you get on board, you should be home free, so do your due diligence now. michaelp1446, FireFishII and JoeOfTheSeas 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Riley Posted January 5, 2023 Report Share Posted January 5, 2023 You might not get your sea pass card until you go to your cabin, so keep a print-out of the "boarding pass" so you can get a drink as soon as you get on board. Find a quiet corner (we usually go to the R Bar on Deck 5 and find a spot near the back - good seats and space to keep our carryon luggage while we wait) and select your beverage of choice. Even if it's a glass of water you'll want to sit for a minute or two.... also get your Safety Drill done ASAP. Villageidiot, michaelp1446 and JoeOfTheSeas 2 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
vackman Posted January 5, 2023 Report Share Posted January 5, 2023 Agree with other comments, do your homework now prior to boarding! I to recommend printing your luggage tags prior to arriving at the port, we've used the plastic luggage tag holders the past few cruises (AmazonSmile | Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders by Cruise On [4 Pack] Fits All Royal Caribbean Ships & Tags for Cruises in 2023 & 2024 | Luggage Tags). You can shop & search for other Cruise Essentials on Amazon... Also, have a printed copy of your SetSail Pass, just in case you have issues with phone and connectivity at the port. I don't want to have any issues or delays while checking-in. Get onboard, grab a beverage of choice and explore the ship, so you'll know where you want to visit throughout your trip. Happy Cruising! michaelp1446 and JoeOfTheSeas 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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