First cruise, luggage drop question

[TimNayUK]

Hi all, first time cruiser here, taking HoS in October. Can someone help explain how luggage drop works? Do we just leave our bags in the terminal and they arrive at our cabin later that day? If so, is it clear where to leave them with RC staff, or is it port based porters? Is this a safe process, do bags ever get lost etc? Sorry for all the nervous sounding questions...

[SpeedNoodles]

They are port-based porters.  I think it is very rare that a bag gets lost at embarkation.  Use the luggage tags provided to you in your Edocs (many people use plastic luggage tag holders that can be purchased on Amazon).  Occasionally your luggage may not show up until early evening, but I've found that to be the exception more than the rule.  I usually get mine by about 3pm or so.  Porters will be waiting to take your bags on the sidewalk before you enter the terminal.  I typically tip $2-3 per bag.

[Cactus527]

You arrive at the port with all your stuff. As you go towards the check-in area, men with large rolling carts (think Costco flat carts for huge purchases) will approach and ask to take your luggage. These are the porters. Totally fine to give your luggage to them. Tip them $1-2 per bag. Of all the times I've done this, there was only once when my bag didn't show up at my stateroom door by 4pm - it was two doors down! Very easy to find, gave us a good laugh ("oh, maybe we're supposed to be in a better room?"). It's definitely nerve wracking the first time you do it, but it's easy-peasy and safe. Enjoy your cruise!

PRO TIP - at the end of your cruise, use the porters after you've collected your luggage. 9 times out of 10 they will have a shorter line to get you through scanners faster and on your way faster. Again, tip $1-2 per bag, but so worth it.

[tjcruisers]

Never had a bag lost, one time it was in the hallway 10 rooms down

[TimNayUK]

43 minutes ago, SpeedNoodles said:

They are port-based porters.  I think it is very rare that a bag gets lost at embarkation.  Use the luggage tags provided to you in your Edocs (many people use plastic luggage tag holders that can be purchased on Amazon).  Occasionally your luggage may not show up until early evening, but I've found that to be the exception more than the rule.  I usually get mine by about 3pm or so.  Porters will be waiting to take your bags on the sidewalk before you enter the terminal.  I typically tip $2-3 per bag.

Thank you all, really helpful. We are coming across from the UK, super excited!

[TimNayUK]

41 minutes ago, Cactus527 said:

You arrive at the port with all your stuff. As you go towards the check-in area, men with large rolling carts (think Costco flat carts for huge purchases) will approach and ask to take your luggage. These are the porters. Totally fine to give your luggage to them. Tip them $1-2 per bag. Of all the times I've done this, there was only once when my bag didn't show up at my stateroom door by 4pm - it was two doors down! Very easy to find, gave us a good laugh ("oh, maybe we're supposed to be in a better room?"). It's definitely nerve wracking the first time you do it, but it's easy-peasy and safe. Enjoy your cruise!

PRO TIP - at the end of your cruise, use the porters after you've collected your luggage. 9 times out of 10 they will have a shorter line to get you through scanners faster and on your way faster. Again, tip $1-2 per bag, but so worth it.

Amazing, thank you

[FireFishII]

Just make sure you keep your documentation, medication, electronics, and anything else you don't want to lose in a carry on bag or backpack.  

Other items could also include a bathing suit, unless you are already wearing it under your clothes.  This way you can hit the pool before the crowds. 

Enjoy your vacation.