Documents and Boarding, oh my

[megiddo-lj.livejournal.com]

My printed cruise documentation arrived over the weekend.  I would expect that most folks should have theirs by the middle of this week, if you don't have it already.  Some info how to get on the ship for those that are new or might not remember ;-)

Before you leave home

• Make sure you have your identity documents packed.  You will need either a passport or a raised-seal birth certificate to get on the ship.  Pack your identity documents in a carry-on for safety.  Be prepared to explain any name changes.
  

• Put your cruise luggage tags on your luggage (if driving) or in your carry-on (if flying).  These need to be on your bags when you arrive at the port, but could get damaged/removed by the airlines if flying.
  

• Check-in online and print your Set Sail pass.  Place it in your carry-on.

The night before sail

• Put all your documentation (identity docs, Set Sail pass, etc) in a carry-on along with your form of payment for onboard expenses.  This can be either credit card, traveler's check(s), or cash.  I also bring a sharpie along to sign my Sign & Sail pass.
  

• Place your cruise luggage tags on your luggage if you haven't previously done so.

• Pack any important/needed items in a carry-on.  This would include any medications, sunscreen, swimming suit, etc. that you want access to early on the ship.  I always put some travel-sized toiletries in my carry-on since luggage might not arrive before dinner and it is  nice to be able to 'freshen up' before the meal.

At the Port*

• Plan on arriving no earlier than 11am.  I'd recommend around noon for minimal waiting.
  

• Porters will take your checked bags at the port.  The usual tip is around $1-2 a bag.  You will be allowed to carry-on a small roller bag or duffel bag and a purse but not any larger luggage.

• A RCCL representative will show you to the check-in line.  Sometimes they check-in by deck, other times it's just 1 big line.  Check-in consists of turning over your Set Sail Pass, identity documents, and making payment arrangements.

• At check-in you will be issued a Sign & Sail card which acts as your room key, onboard charge card and ID for the duration of the cruise.  You will not need cash on the ship.  Make sure to sign the back of this ASAP!

On the Ship

• On the gangplank to the ship you will be stopped 2 times.  Once to get your picture taken for your Sign &  Sail Card (required).  The second time to get a 'Welcome Aboard' photo taken (optional).

• Depending on when you board, your cabin may or may not be ready.  Lunch will be served in the Windjammer cafe (buffet style) and the pools and bars will be open, but not shops or the casino.

• Things to do the first day:

• Visit the dining room and check out your table (your dining assignment printed on your Sign & Sail card).  If you  have specific dinner requests  - such as wanting to switch tables, dietary issues, etc -  see the Maitre' D who should be in the dining room mid afternoon.

• Make any spa appointments or Portofino reservations.

• Buy a soda card for unlimited sodas onboard ($6 a day or so).  These are only available the day of sail!!

• Get familiar with the layout of the ship.  The Explorer is a big vessel and it's very easy to get lost!
  

* For those in suites or who have achieved Platinum status with RCCL (5 or more cruises) there should be priority check-in available.

We're less than 3 weeks away now.  Hope everyone is as excited as I am!

Laundry

[demortaine.livejournal.com]

I know the Explorer will do laundry for a substantial fee-----does anyone living in the NJ/Newark airport area know of a decent, preferably attendant present laundromat that I can use once we get into port?   I got a few choices from laundromatfinder.com, but don't know details, ie safe neighborhoods etc.  Any advice?