If you’re going on a cruise, you might be wondering what to expect from cruise security at the cruise terminal on embarkation day.
Boarding a cruise ship isn’t like boarding an airplane. While airport security & TSA rules can be intimidating, cruise port security is generally not as strict. However, there are rules and there is a boarding process for the first day of your cruise.
From having the correct documents to not bringing prohibited items on a cruise, these cruise terminal security tips will help you to board your cruise faster. You’ll also avoid unnecessary stress on the first day of your cruise.
With that said, here are the biggest mistakes to avoid when going through cruise ship security.
1. Don’t Expect Cruise Terminal Security to Be Like the Airport
Cruise ship security feels a lot more relaxed than airport security. However, there are many similarities.
For instance, you’ll still need to put your bags and personal belongings through X-ray machines and walk through metal detectors. The X-ray process is really quick and straightforward.
One thing to note is carry-on rules on cruises are very different than planes. In particular, when it comes to liquids like shampoo and lotions, you aren’t limited by the 3:1:1 rule. As long as you don’t bring on prohibited items, there’s no limit on quantity.
2. Prepare Your Documentation
You’ll need your passport or government ID and boarding pass when heading through security on embarkation day. Some cruise lines prefer you print your boarding pass, while others will have it available on the cruise line app. Be sure to check what is required before heading to the cruise port to avoid boarding delays.
Each member of your party should carry their own government ID and boarding pass. Verify that you have the required government ID before heading to the cruise port as you will be denied boarding without it.
Cruise tip: If you’re sailing with Princess Cruises, remember to bring your Medallion if it was sent to your home before your cruise. If not, you can pick it up from an agent at the terminal
3. Download the Cruise Line App
Don’t forget to download the cruise line app before you arrive at the port to access your boarding pass. Downloading the app beforehand makes things easier, as you will have your booking information, cabin details, and boarding pass at the tip of your fingers.
Furthermore, the Wi-Fi is often spotty at the cruise port, so you may have trouble downloading the app if you wait to download it at the port.
To avoid any issues, screenshot any of your important travel details so you can access them directly from your camera roll.
4. Sniffer Dogs
Sniffer dogs may be used to conduct random checks for illegal substances. This isn’t something that you’ll find when boarding every cruise, but it is possible.
When boarding Carnival Celebration in Miami on a recent cruise, every passenger was lined up for a quick check by a K9 unit.
Sniffer dogs are also used to check luggage before it’s loaded onto the ship. To avoid any potential issues or delays, ensure that you’re following all of the rules.
Keep in mind that marijuana and related products are not permitted on cruise ships, even if it is legal where you may live.
5. Empty Your Pockets Before Security Check
When going through cruise security, you’ll pass through X-ray machines. Before passing through the machines, you must empty your pockets and put your belongings in a bin.
Just like at the airport, you’ll place in a bin include your keys, phone, wallet, wireless headphones, and other small items. Furthermore, your carry-on luggage, backpack, and other bags must pass through the X-ray machine.
Although it’s unlikely, security may further inspect your items if they suspect something prohibited is in your baggage.
6. Don’t Bring Prohibited Items on a Cruise
Bringing prohibited items can delay your boarding or even prevent you from getting on board.
Common prohibited items include irons (fire hazards) and surge-protected power bars, which are not permitted. However, most cruise lines allow non-surge-protected power cubes or multi-plug USB outlets.
Similar to air travel, weapons and ammunition are strictly prohibited.
It’s important to note that certain prohibited items can vary depending on the cruise line. For instance, on Royal Caribbean baby monitors aren’t permitted. On Carnival, bluetooth speakers and boom boxes are on the banned items list.
If you aren’t sure, check the cruise line’s policy to avoid surprises at check-in.
7. Know the Rules for Bringing Drinks Onboard
Can you bring wine and other drinks on a cruise? If you don’t have a cruise drink package, you might be wondering.
Many cruise lines allow each adult to bring one bottle of wine and a small quantity of soda. However, each cruise line has it’s own policy when it comes to what drinks you can bring on board.
Hard alcohol and beer are usually not allowed and will likely be confiscated if found. Furthermore, since your luggage goes through X-ray machines, non-permitted alcohol will be removed from your baggage.
Something many new cruisers may not realize is that large bottles of mouthwash or shampoo may be flagged as they’re commonly used to smuggle alcohol. Even wine bottles can be checked to see if it’s been resealed.
Related: Cruise Luggage Restrictions and Baggage Rules Every Cruiser Needs to Know
8. Security in Ports of Call
When returning to the ship after visiting a port, you’ll go through security again. Each time you re-board, you’ll scan your cruise card to check back in.
Be prepared for your beach bags and souvenirs to go through an X-ray machine. If you purchase alcohol in port, it will be collected and held until the end of the cruise.
Video: Biggest Mistakes to Avoid at Cruise Ship Security on Boarding Day
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Final Thoughts Rookie Mistakes That Could Get You Stuck at Cruise Security
You’ll have a smooth and hassle-free boarding experience by avoiding these rooking cruise ship security mistakes.
Do you have any cruise ship security stories or questions? Please share them in the comment section below!
Happy Cruising!
Ilana
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