Earliest boarding time and carry-on luggage storage

[seabreezer]

We'll be over-nighting in Ft. Lauderdale prior to our Westerdam cruise. What is the earliest time we can board? Also, I prefer to keep my luggage with me or in a secure storage area after boarding the ship. Is there such a place to leave my luggage after boarding so I can have lunch, make spa appointments, etc. without having to roll it all over the ship? It would be just one 22" bag.

[RuthC]

The earliest boarding time I have found, including in Ft. Lauderdale, is 11:30.

Most of the ships I have been on (I have not been on the Westerdam) have had a secure area for carry-on luggage. Usually it's by the Lido pool, forward, port side. The area is blocked off by tables, and there is a steward or two to take it. A claim check is given, with the other half placed on your luggage. There is a pick-up time announced when the cabins are cleared.

[cdkempton]

Don't know about the Westerdam, but on the Rotterdam there was a roped off area on the Lido deck, with a staff member in charge, where you could leave your carry-on. It worked out great as far as getting lunch and checking out the ship, etc. If you are booked into a high-end suite, it is my understanding that you can leave your carry-on in the Neptune Lounge. Someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but the earliest boarding is usually 11:30 (but in some areas it's been 12:00 noon). Hope this helps.
Bon Voyage!!!!

Sorry Ruth, I guess I was still writing when you posted. :)

[JimVrhovac]

Boarding is about 11:30, depending on how debarkment went.

If you have the luggage that can fit inside each other you can fir 4 sets under a doudle bet. We have never had a problem with all the luggage that Ruth takes. Average for a 7-10 cruise is 11-12 pieces of luggage.

Ruth & Jim

[seabreezer]

Thanks for your replies. Sounds good.

11-12 pieces of luggage for 7 - 10 days? You're kidding, right? That's more than one piece of luggage per day. Do you carry your own food and linens?