CRUISE DISEMBARKATION
Preparing for disembarkation: what to expect on the final morning of your cruise
The final morning of your cruise often involves a busy sequence of activities as your holiday comes to an end. However, understanding what to expect can make the process smoother and less stressful.
Disembarkation marks the conclusion of your voyage, regardless of the cruise's duration.
Disembarking a cruise ship is more structured than checking out of a hotel, as there are logistical steps to follow to ensure an organised process for all passengers. Although it may be bittersweet to leave the ship, with proper planning, you can disembark efficiently and without hassle.
Don’t forget to also consult our information on embarkation to help you prepare for the beginning of your next cruise.
Disembarkation timing
1. Assisted disembarkation
If you placed your luggage outside your cabin the night before (before midnight) for delivery to the cruise terminal, you will receive luggage tags indicating your designated disembarkation time. This information is provided on a notice left in your cabin, alongside the numbered luggage tags. Each sailing operates on its own schedule, so the timings associated with the tags may vary. You will have to disembark at the time assigned, as leaving earlier than the designated time means waiting at the terminal for luggage to arrive. In many ports, the customs will not allow you to wait at the terminal for the luggage to come; therefore, you will be asked to re-embark the ship and wait on board.
2. Self-assist disembarkation
Passengers carrying their own luggage can disembark as soon as local authorities clear the ship. The exact time varies but generally starts around 7:00 AM, subject to factors such as docking time and customs clearance. MSC requires passengers to vacate their cabins by 8:00 AM to allow the crew to prepare for the next voyage. By approximately 9:00 AM, announcements will begin prompting passengers to disembark, with further reminders issued if necessary. Timings are different according to the time spent in port, but in general, disembarkation will start 1 hour after arrival.
Morning activities on disembarkation day
• Dining: Breakfast is typically available at select venues, such as the buffet, Main Dining Room, and coffee shops on Deck 5 or 6.
• Guest Services: Open for resolving any outstanding billing issues. Note that all balances must be cleared before disembarking.
Most other amenities, including the pool, will be closed.
Booking flights after disembarkation
When scheduling your post-cruise flight, ensure sufficient time to disembark, travel to the airport, and pass through security. Booking a flight too early may result in delays or missed departures due to factors like:
• Docking and customs clearance times.
• Disembarkation queues and unforeseen delays.
• Distance between the port and the airport.
A general guideline is to allow at least five hours between the ship’s arrival and your flight’s departure. For airports located further from the port, add additional travel time. It is very important that you advise Guest Services of your flight departure time so that they can assign you the correct number/timing for disembarkation.
Important pre-disembarkation tasks
1. Double-check your belongings
Ensure you have retrieved all personal items from your cabin, including valuables from the safe, chargers, and children’s toys. Retrieving forgotten items after disembarkation can be challenging.
2. Verify your account
Confirm that your onboard account is settled. Guests with cash accounts must settle their balances at Guest Services, as disembarkation is not permitted until this is done.
3. Review charges
Take a moment to review your final bill for accuracy and address any discrepancies before leaving.
Post-disembarkation process
Upon leaving the ship, you will retrieve your luggage from the designated area in the cruise terminal. Luggage will be grouped by tag numbers, and only called groups will be available for collection. Next, proceed through immigration.
In the U.S., passengers with passports typically use facial recognition for a faster process, while those with birth certificates undergo manual inspection.
In the EU, procedures vary based on the itinerary and Schengen regulations.
After clearing immigration, arrange your transportation. Options include taxis, shuttle services, ride shares, and pre-arranged transfers. MSC offers transfers to major airports and cities in Italy, Spain, France, and Switzerland, with private car options available for other destinations. Transfers can be booked online or onboard at the Shore Excursions Office.
Please check and comply with Customs regulation of the Countries of disembarkation.
For more information or to arrange transportation, cruise transfers.
