What to do w/ luggage before boarding?

[olie425]

We are flying into Miami early in the morning but our cruise doesn't board until late in the afternoon. We want to spend the day at Miami beach, but don't want to carry around our luggage... any tips on what to do with it? thanks!

[LHT28]

Most ships start boarding around noon sometimes earlier but you can drop your bags at the port around 10am

I would check the time you need to be onboard it is usually 1-2 hr prior to sailaway

[Keith1010]

With very few exceptions you can normally board at Noon so be sure to confirm that.

 

As mentioned you can drop luggage off around 10:00 AM.

 

Keith

[kcwingwalker]

We are flying into Miami early in the morning but our cruise doesn't board until late in the afternoon. We want to spend the day at Miami beach, but don't want to carry around our luggage... any tips on what to do with it? thanks!

 

Welcome to Cruise Critic Olie425!

 

Most ships begin boarding about noon but may not depart until 4:00 or 6:00 pm.

 

Allow at least an hour or more from when your plane arrives and until you reach the cruise terminal. Then it may take an hour or more before you are cleared for embarkation.

 

I'm not sure that you really have time for a beach day.

 

A good place to ask this question is Cruise Critics Florida departures board

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=495

 

It's also a good idea to join your Roll Call http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=34

 

Enjoy your cruise!

[Nebr.cruiser]

Good advice above; I think a beach day in Miami is going to be difficult too.

 

Are you sure your boarding doesn't start until late afternoon? I ask because most ships have a departure time in late afternoon, with boarding starting around noon, or before, but I realize there may be exceptions.

 

Also, you have to be checked in and on board usually at least 90 minutes before departure. Don't chance being late as you probably will be denied boarding.

 

If you do want a place for your luggage, the only options I can think of is to rent a car or possibly find a beach hotel that you can check into for a few hours or pay to leave your luggage there. Or, as others suggested, drop the luggage off early and continue to the beach.

[Dayenu]

Put a swimsuit in your carry-on, and board early. Use the pool on the ship.

[cb at sea]

All the "docs" say to board around 2pm....don't believe that. Get there around 11am...you'll be on the ship in no time!

I wear my bathingsuit under my shorts.....so I can head right to the pool!

 

Folks in the know go early!

[Bonnie J.]

Have you though of flying to Miami the day before your cruise? That is recommended here on cc. Then you could spend time at the beach after you get there. I would plan to head to the port by at least 2pm - no later. There are hotels in Miami that have free shuttle to the port.

[iahawkize]

OK If you happen to be on Carnival you could have signed up for Faster to the Fun Which for $49.99 per cabin allows you priority boarding with the Platinum and diamond cruisers. You can put ALL your carry ons in the v=cabin and your luggage may allready be there. Don't chance going to the beach in Miami due to traffic The pools onboard MAY be open Save your beach day in Miami for after you get back and stay over one night and enjoy the nightlife in South Beach