Cruising for the First Time? Here’s What to Do Before and After You Board
Cruising has continued to skyrocket in popularity since the pandemic, with 37.1 million passengers expected to sail globally in 2025! Over the past two years, approximately 27% of cruisers were first-timers. Plus, seven new cruise ships are debuting this year alone—so there’s never been a better time to book a cruise for your next vacation.
If you’re new to cruising, stepping onboard for the first time can feel overwhelming. Cruising is a unique way to travel, and first-time cruisers often have a lot of questions about how to get the most from their experience.
Before diving into what to do once you board, let’s start with a few essential tasks to complete before arriving at the cruise port—and a quick look at what to expect at the terminal.
A. Download the cruise line app after booking your cruise. After booking your cruise, download the cruise line’s app and log in or create an account. The app provides pre-cruise information, allows you to purchase add-ons (like excursions and drink packages), and streamlines the check-in process. While the website is also useful, the app becomes essential once onboard. You’ll need it to:
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Connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi
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Access the daily schedule
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Watch the mandatory safety video
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Manage expenses and reservations
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Use onboard messaging (if available)
Additionally, your boarding documents (eDocs) will be accessible through the app—so make sure it’s downloaded and ready before you arrive at the port.
B. Complete online check-in before heading to the port. Complete the online check-in process via the cruise line’s app or website. This typically opens 30–45 days before your sail date (exact timing varies by cruise line). Online check-in usually closes 2-3 days prior to sailing. During check-in, you’ll:
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Enter personal and travel information
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Upload your passport or required travel documents
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Take or upload a selfie (required for boarding)
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Add a payment method
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Choose a boarding time
Check-in must be completed for each passenger. It’s usually simple to complete for all guests on the same reservation. Most systems let you enter basic info early and return later to upload documents.
Don’t forget to complete the mandatory health questionnaire, usually available 24 hours before sailing. Failing to complete online check-in means you’ll need to do it all at the port—delaying your boarding and likely assigning you the latest arrival time. If you’re working with a travel advisor like me, I’ll notify you as soon as check-in opens 🙂
