We returned last week from a one-week cruise on the Royal Caribbean Grandeur of the Seas. We chose that ship because it sails out of the Port of Baltimore – a short 30-minute drive from Annapolis. This was our second cruise (out of Baltimore) and I must say that it is REALLY SO NICE not having to fly somewhere to get onboard!
Royal Caribbean Grandeur of the Seas
We arrived before noon and there were short lines for security and check-in. The ONE BIG COMPLAINT about check-in was that we were meeting others (kids) and they were forced to wait outside in the freezing cold. That is ridiculous – terrorist alerts or not. So be warned if you are meeting a group – wait in your car until everyone is there.
If you carry your bags on – also be aware – there is a long winding walk where they try and sell you things like drink packages and take your photo. You will also register any kids (and get a wristband for them) along the way. If you check your bags it will be a much easier walk but you could wait hours for your bag to be delivered to your room (they said if didn’t get it before 7, call for assistance – UGH). We carried on once – exhausting by the end since we had a kids bag too. Pack a light backpack with swimsuit or something to keep you occupied for first couple of hours.
My parents got in an hour earlier than we did – I would say get on as early as possible to avoid the crowds.
Here are the actual steps for check-in:
1. Drive to the parking lot for the Port of Baltimore – really easy, right off I-95 and Key Hwy (right next to the ship – short walk to ship)
2. Pull up to drop off your bags – unless your carrying on (then you will just drive by)
3. Drive up to one of the pay station windows to pre-pay for parking – it’s $15 per cruise night
4. You can drop people off if want then park but it’s not a large lot
5. Walk into left or right entrance – there are 2 lines for security (sometimes really long line on one side and none on other)
6. First show passports and boarding passes, then go through x-ray machines
7. Complete a questionnaire (medical) then get in line (we went through quickly) to receive your cruise card photo ID – then they will take a photo (about 5 minutes) and issue a cruise photo ID (sea pass). You will use that card for everything – room key, ID for leaving and returning to ship, purchases onboard (acts like a credit card), gambling, etc. – so don’t lose it!
8. Walk through the long, winding boarding area – 10 minutes? Register any kids
9. Show your cruise ID and go have fun! You won’t be allowed in rooms until 1 or so. Most people went to buffet for lunch and it took a while to find a seat.
10. Relax and have fun – no cooking, no cleaning and no work!
Sunset from Cruise Ship
Stay tuned for “part 2 – The Cruise”…
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