Email from HAL

[Ariel35]

Hi,

 

I received an email from HAL this morning saying there will be delays on debarkation and embarkation for my cruise in 3 weeks.... is this not a bit early for them to know???

 

It also stated boarding times according to deck...

 

Has anyone else experienced anything like this in the past?

 

Thanks,

[Krazy Kruizers]

Which ship?  What embarkation port?

[twodjs]

They have offered suggested boarding times by deck for some time to try to prevent the long lInes when 2000 people show up all at once. Logical, but many ignore the suggestion and the lInes still form. The delay may be because the ship is requiring aditional inspections or a minor repair. They are just trying to be proactive.

[bEwAbG]

It's not unusual for any line to let you know if they already know.  It would help to post the text of the letter as well as the ship & sail date if you want more info than that.

[slidergirl]

The day you embark may be a multi-ship-in-port day and that can cause some delays.  HAL does give time to arrive, but it seems most people feel they don't apply to them and ignore them, adding to the lines at the beginning of embarkation,

[SJSULIBRARIAN]

Back in June, I received such an email which said since there were three ships in Vancouver that day, it was suggested that we arrive to check in between 10 and 12 or between 2 and 3.

[Ariel35]

Aug 31 on Nieuw Amsterdam.

 

All the letter states is expect delays during embarkation and immigration process.

[twodjs]

Canada Place in Vancouver, BC typically has 3 or 4 or more ships arriving and departing daily during the Alaska cruising season. They are simply trying to give you a heads up on the situation of moving many thousands of people in a very short period of time. Sometimes it feels like herding cats! Bring your patience, snacks and hydrate. The cruise is worth it.

[oaktreerb]

1 hour ago, Ariel35 said:

Aug 31 on Nieuw Amsterdam.

 

All the letter states is expect delays during embarkation and immigration process.

There are 3 ships in port....NA, Star Legend, and Royal Princess

[sevenseasnomad]

At least you have a "heads-up" notice, which is better than arriving to find a interminable wait, which is aggravating for all concerned.  Enjoy Vancouver, a lovely city, and Alaska with its jaw-dropping vistas.  Are you flying in a day or two early?  We find this helps too, as we aren't stressed over arriving in time to board with a delayed flight.