On Carnival cruises, you need to be back on the ship 30 minutes before the scheduled sailaway time at dockside ports, and an hour before at tender ports, with times posted as you leave the ship.  Remember – all times are Ship Time, no matter the local time of the Port you are visiting.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

  • Dockside Ports: The general “all aboard” time is 30 minutes before the ship’s scheduled departure time. 
  • Tender Ports: All aboard time may be an hour before sailaway. 
  • Check for Specific Times: The cruise manager will show the cruise departure time in each port, and the time to return to the ship will be posted as you leave the ship for the day. 
  • Security and Re-entry: Ports require both a government ID and sail and sign card to re-enter the port area.  {Personally, I always bring my ID, but I haven’t needed to show it in years.}
  • Carnival Excursions: If you book excursions through Carnival, they will wait for you if there is a problem. 
  • Staying on Board: Feel free to stay on board the ship on port days.

IF YOU MISS THE SHIP:

If you miss your cruise ship at a port, the ship will likely sail without you, and you’ll be responsible for arranging to catch up with it at the next port or returning home, incurring any associated costs. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

  • The ship won’t wait: Cruise ships have strict schedules and cannot delay for passengers who are late. 
  • Contact the port agent: Immediately contact the cruise line’s port agent to inform them of the situation and inquire about your belongings and passport. 
  • Contact your travel insurance: Check your travel insurance policy for coverage related to missed cruise departures and potential assistance. 
  • Arrange to catch up: If you wish to rejoin the cruise, work with the port agent and cruise line to make arrangements to get to the next port of call. 
  • Be prepared for costs: You will likely be responsible for the costs of transportation to the next port, accommodation, and any other expenses incurred. 
  • Don’t expect refunds: Cruise lines generally don’t offer refunds or credits for missed cruises or partial refunds for joining late, unless there’s a documented emergency. 
  • Retrieve your belongings: If you decide to return home instead of rejoining the sailing at the next port, the cruise line can usually have everything shipped to you, but just know that it might not be cheap. 

*On my most recent Cruise (Horizon, March 9, 2025) two ladies missed the ship in Jamaica. They had to arrange transportation from Jamaica to Grand Cayman (our next stop) through the Jamaican Coast Guard. Per my understanding – it was very expensive for them.

BELOW ARE THE CHARTS THAT ARE LOCATED IN THE GANGWAY WHEN YOU RE-ENTER THE SHIP AFTER PORTS.