Cruise Planning Checklist: What to Do Before Your Cruise
Once your cruise is booked, there are quite a few things to remember before embarkation day. Use this checklist as a simple timeline to keep your plans organized.
After You Book
A Few Months Before
About a Month Before
When Online Check-In Opens
The Week Before
The Day Before
Embarkation Morning
IN THIS GUIDE
Exact deadlines vary by cruise line and sailing, so always check your reservation for specific dates and requirements.
After You Book
Confirm names on the reservation are correct
Check passport and travel-document requirements
Review your cruise itinerary
Note your final payment date
Download the cruise line's app
Review what's included in your fare
Research travel insurance if needed
Start researching your ports
Check flight prices if you're flying
Consider a pre-cruise hotel
A Few Months Before
Book flights and transportation
Reserve your pre-cruise hotel if needed
Research shore excursions
Make dining reservations when available
Reserve specialty dining if desired
Review drink and Wi-Fi packages
Check whether onboard activities require reservations
Create a rough cruise budget
About a Month Before
Check your cruise line for online check-in dates
Confirm transportation to the cruise terminal
Review your itinerary for changes
Start your packing list
Check the weather for your destinations
Review your cruise line's prohibited-items list
Arrange pet care, childcare, or home needs if necessary
When Online Check-In Opens
Complete check-in as early as practical.
You may need to provide identification details, emergency contact information, a payment method for onboard purchases, a security photo, and other travel information.
Depending on the cruise line, you may also select an arrival time.
The Week Before
Confirm flights, hotel, and transportation
Check for itinerary or schedule changes
Download or print required cruise documents
Prepare luggage tags
Fill prescriptions and pack medications
Notify your bank of travel if necessary
Download anything you'll want available offline
Finish packing
The Day Before
Check in for your flight if flying
Charge phones and other electronics
Confirm transportation to the terminal
Put passports and documents in your carry-on
Pack medications and valuables in your carry-on
Double-check your cruise line's boarding instructions
CRUISE TIP: If you're flying to your departure port, arriving at least one day before your cruise gives you extra time if your flight is delayed or canceled.
Embarkation Morning
Keep your passport or required identification, cruise documents, medications, valuables, and anything you'll need during your first few hours onboard with you.
Then you're ready to go.
Keep Planning
Explore next: Cruise Packing List • Cruise Budget Calculator • First-Time Cruiser Guide
Embarkation Day Guide
Popular ports and what to see and do when your ship arrives.
LATEST ARTICLES
Helpful Guides & Latest Insights
Top Cruise Destinations
Life Onboard
Cruise Planning
What to expect on embarkation day and how to get started smoothly.
A look at daily life on a cruise ship and what to expect.
Smart packing tips to make your cruise more comfortable and enjoyable.