Expert: Linda - 12/13/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hi. I think I asked you a few questions the other day about how much time I should allow for getting to the port for the cruise, and whether or not I should book a hotel room in Miami(I would be coming from New York)so I'm not wandering around Miami before or after my flights. How far is the port from Miami International Airport? Is there anything to do at the port if I get there early? Thanks again!

ANSWER: Yes, you did ask me.  airport to port is about 15 minutes only.  there is nothing to do at the port.  About a 6 min cab ride from the port is a shopping area, but you'd have all your suitecases with you, so that would be a pain in the neck.

Just remember, it's winter, I'd rather be early then miss the cruise.  Just buy a good book, or talk to  your fellow passengers while you're waiting to board the ship.

there is a LOT to do at Miami airport while you're waiting to go back home; lots of shops, bars, and restaurants and great people watching.

Have a great cruise

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Do you know how soon people are allowed to board the boat? I mean, if it departs at 4 p.m., when are people likely to start lining up to board?

Answer
People start arriving depending on their flights.  You'll be taken to the port where you check in your bags to the porters.  From there you go inside and either stand in a line, or there are places to sit.  The ship must be cleared of the previous passengers and certain areas cleaned before the new cruisers can board.  Usually 11:30-12:30 is the earliest I've seen.  If you board early, you may not be able to go to your cabin as they may not be ready; but that's fine, because you can go to a bar and have a drink, eat lunch on the deck, walk around the ship and get to know your way around, or pack your bathing suit and flip flops in your take on luggage, change in the bathroom and go swimming.

Linda