Missed the ship: what happens and what to do
The ship leaves on time. Here is what follows if you are not on it, and how to plan a port day so you never find out.
If you are late
Call the port agent: the number is in the daily newsletter or on the back of your cruise card information. The agent can tell you whether the ship can still be reached by tender and, if not, where it calls next.
You pay to reach the next port, usually by flight or ferry, plus any hotel. Your passport may still be on board if it was collected at check-in, which is why carrying a copy ashore matters.
Why cruise line tours are different
If a tour bought from the cruise line runs late, the ship waits or the line gets you to the next port. Independent tours rarely carry that promise, though some operators offer their own return guarantee. Check the listing before you book.
How to never miss it
- Use the all-aboard time, not the departure time. All aboard is usually 30–60 minutes earlier.
- Keep your watch on ship's time; some islands are an hour off.
- Plan to be back at the pier an hour before all aboard, or 90 minutes at tender ports.
- Pick tours that meet at the pier and have a fixed end time.
Our planner does that maths for every tour. Choose your port.