Cruise Calm: Fly to port Early, Relax and Set Sail Smoothly
Ah, the allure of a cruise vacation – sunshine, sparkling water, delicious food, and exciting destinations. But before you picture yourself lounging on a deck chair, there’s the not-so-glamorous part: getting there. While flying in on the same day your cruise departs might seem like a way to save money, it’s often a gamble with potentially disastrous consequences.
This post will explore the pros and cons of flying in for your cruise, offering real-life examples and alternative ways to save money without the stress. For other FAQs, check out the top 10 Cruise FAQs post.
Flying In Day Of your Cruise: A Risky Bet
Let’s face it, flights get delayed or canceled. Statistics from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics show that in 2023, 21.60% of domestic flights experienced delays from January through April [Source: Lending Tree, Airlines and Airports With the Worst On-Time Arrival Performances in 2023 — A Closer Look at Flight Delays, Cancellations and More]. While cancellations are less frequent, with a rate of 1.29% for the entire year according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics [Source: Air Travel Consumer Report: December 2023, Full Year 2023 Numbers], even a small change can impact your cruise plans. In 2022, nearly 181,300 flights of major U.S. air carriers were canceled. This was a significant 76 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Source: Trans Stats
Airline passengers wait patiently for hours as their flight is delayed on the tarmac.
Cruisers who missed the boat because they didn’t fly in early
Here are some cautionary tales:
- Honeymoon Hurry: Missed the Boat! Sarah & David planned their honeymoon cruise for months. To save money, they flew in the morning of departure – a tight schedule! However, their connecting flight in Minneapolis was canceled due to mechanical problems. No cruise for their honeymoon!
- Friend Frenzy: Storm Ruined Reunion. Five college friends planned a cruise reunion, flying in from different cities. They booked separate flights to save money. But bad weather had other plans! A huge winter storm grounded most flights. No cruise reunion for the friends.
Family Flurry: Not Everyone Made the Sail Away!
- Grandparents Play It Safe: Wisely, Jack, and Dianne(the grandparents) booked their flight two days before the cruise. They enjoyed relaxing by the pool and exploring the port city, stress-free!
- Kate & Paul Dash: Trying to save some bucks, Kate and Paul flew in one day before. Their flight got delayed, so they camped in the airport the night before turning their leisurely arrival into a frantic dash to the port. They barely made it aboard, exhausted and frazzled.
- Missed Moments with Munchkins: John and Leann, with their two young kids, opted to fly in on the day of the cruise. The flight was just one hour, so they figured it was a safe bet. Unfortunately, the airline was understaffed, causing delays that kept their plane grounded at the terminal. By the time the issue was resolved, it was too late. The cruise ship had sailed away, leaving the young family heartbroken and their dream vacation in shambles.
Video: Family of 8 misses ship. Who’s to blame?
These are just a few examples of how flying in on embarkation day can go wrong. Even if your flight arrives on time, you might face long lines or unexpected delays at the port.
Fly to port Early: Peace of Mind and Extra Fun
There’s a reason seasoned cruisers recommend flying in a day or two before your cruise. Here’s why:
- Stress-Free Buffer: An extra day gives you a cushion in case of flight delays or cancellations. You can relax at the hotel, knowing you have ample time to get to the port without the panic of a tight schedule.
- Explore and Enjoy: Many cruise port cities(like Miami) offer exciting things to see and do. Use that extra day to explore local attractions, sample delicious food, or simply unwind by the pool.
- Double the Fun: Consider it a bonus vacation day! Treat yourself to a nice dinner, visit a museum, or try a new activity. You’ll board the ship feeling refreshed and ready for adventure.
Real-Life Example: The Savvy Couple
This isn’t just a hypothetical situation. Here’s a real story from Mike and Kristina, your Gallivanting Souls, who recently joined a group cruise with Brand Ambassador John Heald on a For Fun’s Sake Cruise:
Flying In Early Pays Off: Mike and Kristina booked their flights to Miami two days before the cruise. Smart move! Weather disruptions were brewing across the country, causing delays and cancellations. Being on the first flight out of Phoenix meant they were safe and sound, enjoying the sunshine while others faced travel chaos.
Domino Effect of Delays: Later flights from the West Coast started getting delayed, and eventually scrapped altogether. This bad weather lasted two days, throwing a wrench into everyone’s travel plans. Cruisers who planned to fly in one day before saw their flights pushed back to embarkation day. Those flying in on the very day of the cruise? Sadly, they missed the ship entirely. Roughly a third of the passengers were left behind!
Lesson Learned: Thanks to smart planning, Mike and Kristina avoided the travel nightmare. This experience solidified their strategy – always fly in two days before a cruise when travelling to the east coast, and at least one day before for west coast departures.
Saving Money Beyond Flight Timing
While flying in early offers peace of mind, let’s address your budget concerns. Here are some ways to save money on your cruise besides booking a last-minute flight:
- Skip the All-Inclusive Packages: Cruise lines often promote beverage packages and specialty dining options. However, these can be expensive. Consider sticking with the complimentary drinks and enjoying the main dining rooms. You can always bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day, and explore local cafes or grab snacks at port stops for a taste of the destination.
- BYO: Bring any allowed beverages like wine or soda. Carnival has one of the best BYO beverage policies.
- Pack Your Essentials: Avoid unnecessary onboard purchases by packing essentials a cruise emergency kit, sunscreen, aloe vera, and basic medications. Bring a small, packable cooler to enjoy drinks on deck or in port.
- Be Smart About Souvenirs: Cruise ship shops can be tempting, but prices are often inflated. Wait until you reach port cities to find unique souvenirs and local crafts at potentially better prices.
- Consider “Shoulder Seasons”: Peak season cruises come with the highest price tags. Look for deals during shoulder seasons, the weeks just before or after peak times.
The Hotel: Added Comfort or Unnecessary Expense?
Flying in a day or two before your cruise often means booking a hotel for that extra night. While this adds some cost to your trip, there are benefits to consider:
- Peace of Mind: A hotel provides a buffer against flight delays or cancellations. You won’t be scrambling at the airport, stressed about missing your cruise.
- Relaxation Station: Instead of a frantic rush from the airport to the port, you can unwind at the hotel, enjoy the pool, explore the city, or simply catch up on rest.
- Group Getaways: For larger groups or families, an Airbnb can be a cost-effective option, offering more space and amenities than a standard hotel room.
- Finding Deals: Sites like Priceline can help you score last-minute hotel deals, potentially offsetting the added cost. Just be sure to read reviews and understand any cancellation policies before booking.
Food for Thought: Saving Money on Meals
While the cruise will cover most meals onboard, you might have some pre-cruise or port stop expenses to consider. Here are some tips to stretch your food budget:
- Skip the Fancy Restaurants: The allure of a pre-cruise dinner celebration is strong, but expensive restaurants can drain your wallet. Consider exploring local, budget-friendly eateries or grabbing a quick bite at a casual cafe.
- Embrace the Grocery Store: If your hotel has a fridge and microwave, take advantage of it! Stock up on snacks, fruits, and drinks at a nearby grocery store. This can save you money compared to constant restaurant meals or overpriced airport food.
- Pack a Reusable Water Bottle: Cruise lines often charge for bottled water. Pack a reusable water bottle and fill it up at the airport or hotel. You can also refill it with tap water onboard most cruise ships.
The Bottom Line:
While skipping the hotel might seem like a way to save money upfront, the potential stress and missed cruise can be a far more expensive cost in the long run. Weigh the pros and cons, and consider your comfort level and travel style before making a decision. However, by planning your meals and exploring budget-friendly options, you can still save money on food without sacrificing your enjoyment.
Conclusion: Smooth Sailing Starts with flying to the port a day or two before your cruise
The allure of a cruise vacation is undeniable. But before you picture yourself lounging on a deck chair, there’s the not-so-glamorous part – getting there. While flying in on the same day your cruise departs might seem like a way to save money, it’s a gamble that can backfire.
This post explored the pros and cons of flying in early, highlighting real-life examples of missed cruises due to last-minute travel woes. We also discussed alternative ways to save money on your cruise, so you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a relaxing vacation.
Remember: A little extra planning can go a long way. Flying in early for your cruise offers peace of mind, allows you to explore the port city, and ensures you don’t miss the boat (literally!). So, pack your bags, book your flight (with a buffer day!), and get ready for a smooth sailing adventure!
Bonus Tip: Bon Voyage on a Budget!
Even with a hotel stay and some pre-cruise meals, you can still have a budget-friendly cruise vacation. Here are some final money-saving ideas:
- Skip the All-Inclusive Packages: Cruise lines often promote beverage packages and specialty dining options. While convenient, these can be expensive. Consider sticking with the complimentary drinks and enjoying the main dining rooms. You can always bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day, and explore local cafes or grab snacks at port stops for a taste of the destination.
- Pack Your Essentials: Avoid unnecessary onboard purchases by packing essentials like sunscreen, aloe vera, and basic medications. You can also bring a small cooler with non-perishable snacks and drinks to enjoy on deck.
Set Sail with Confidence!
By following these tips, you can navigate the pre-cruise logistics without breaking the bank. With a little planning and some smart budgeting, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free and unforgettable cruise experience!
FAQ: Fly in a day early before your cruise vs day of
This post has hopefully convinced you that flying in early for your cruise is the smarter choice. However, you might still have some lingering questions. Here’s a quick FAQ to address those:
Q: But flying in early adds an extra expense!
A: True, a hotel stay adds some cost. However, weigh that against the potential expense of missing your cruise due to a flight issue. Additionally, consider the value of a stress-free pre-cruise experience and the chance to explore the port city.
Q: How early should I fly in?
A: A day or two before your cruise departure is ideal. This provides a buffer in case of flight delays or cancellations.
Q: Are there any ways to save money on pre-cruise hotels?
A: Absolutely! Consider Airbnbs for group trips, look for deals on travel websites, or choose hotels with included breakfast to save on meals.
Q: What about food? Can I save money there too?
A: Yes! Skip fancy restaurants, pack a refillable water bottle, and stock up on snacks at a grocery store if your hotel has a fridge and microwave.
Q: I already booked my flight for embarkation day. What can I do?
A: If possible, consider changing your flight (it might involve a fee). If not, be prepared for a potentially stressful arrival and hope for the best!
Remember: Peace of mind and a smooth sailing start to your vacation are priceless! So, plan ahead, fly in early, and enjoy your well-deserved cruise adventure!
Have you ever flown in day of?
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