Essential steps of pre-cruise preparation and packing
Getting ready for your Hawaiian adventure is almost as exciting as the journey itself! From planning your travel to the departure port and arranging accommodations, to cruise packing check-lists and completing online check-in, I’ve got you covered. My goal is to make your embarkation as smooth and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on the incredible experiences that await you.
- Pack Your Luggage: Start preparing a Cruise packing list based on the activities you plan to do on the cruise and organize the items you’ll need. Be sure to include essentials such as sunscreen, swimwear, and comfortable clothing. (Remember you can only use reef save sunscreen in Hawaii that you can find here)
- Complete Online Check-In: Some cruise lines offer online check-in, which can help streamline the embarkation process. Be sure to complete this step before your cruise to save time.
- Plan Your Arrival Time: Check your cruise documents for the recommended arrival time at the port. Arriving early can help you avoid long lines and ensure a smooth embarkation process.
- Review Cruise Documents: Take the time to review all the documents provided by the cruise line, including your boarding pass and any important information about your cruise. Make sure all remaining fees are paid at least a week before the cruise. This can cause huge first day issues for cruisers.
- Prepare Travel Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary travel documents, such as your passport, visa (if required), and any other identification required for your cruise. (Passports currently have a 8-12 week wait in some states)
- Arrange for Parking or Transportation: If you’re driving to the port, research parking options ahead of time and make arrangements if needed. If you’re using public transportation or a ride-sharing service, plan your route in advance. Make sure to bring cash with you to Hawaii for tips and smaller tours. The ATM fees on the ships are around $6.99 per transaction.
- Plan Your Departure: If you’re flying home after the cruise, consider booking a flight that departs later in the day to allow for any delays in debarkation and travel time to the airport. This also gives you time for half day tours!
- Double-Check Your Packing: Before you leave for your cruise, double-check your cruise packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
Below are guides, tips and tricks related to Pre-Cruise Preparation and we have a massive pre-cruise packing checklist. These cruise guides will give you more in-depth Hawaii cruise information.
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What is the dress code like on the Pride of America and what are the theme nights?
Question from Jamie: What is the dress code like on the Pride of America and what are the theme nights? Justin’s Answer: Here is how NCL describes the dress code for the Pride of America cruise: They don’t really have any theme nights besides the Glow Party that is later at night , where everyone wears white.(check the Free Style Daily to see what day it will be) If…
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Do they have normal US style outlets on the Pride of America and what do they look like?
Question from Jamie: Do they have normal US style outlets on the Pride of America and what do they look like? Justin’s Answer: Yes, they do! Here is a photo of one of the outlet setups: Some rooms also have USB ports in the lights near the beds. I would still recommend bringing a cheap, cruise-approved extension cord found here for CPAP machines or other needs. Outlets are usually…
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It says my NCL luggage tags are included in my e-docs but I don’t see them, where are they?
Question from Sam: It says my NCL luggage tags are included in my e-docs but I don’t see them, where are they? Justin’s Answer: Hey Sam! If your cruise is still a bit away, NCL might mail a copy of your luggage tags. Alternatively, look for a luggage icon in your e-docs. Clicking this icon generates a PDF of your luggage tags. You can print as many as you…
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Do I need to use reef safe sunscreen in Hawaii? Where can I get some?
Question from Megan: Do I need to use reef safe sunscreen in Hawaii? Where can I get some? Justin’s Answer: Hey Megan! Yes, using reef safe sunscreen in Hawaii is important to protect the coral reefs and marine life. The easiest way to get approved reef safe sunscreen is to order it off Amazon before your trip. I found some Hawaii approved reef safe sunscreen here that are cheap.…
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Do people decorate their doors, and with what?
Question from Amy: Do people decorate their doors, and with what? Justin’s Answer: Hey Amy! Yes, many people love to decorate their cabin doors on cruises. Magnetic cruise decor from Amazon Here works great because the doors are metallic. You can also order custom Pride of America decorations Here to make it even more special and have a nice keepsake to remember the cruise by. It’s a fun way…
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NCL – Laundry Prices – Pride of America Cruise Ship – Hawaii
The laundry process is not like a lot of other cruise ships due mostly to staffing and that it is an older ship. On most cruises you can fill a bag for around $29 and have it washed or you can wash your own clothes. For the on-board laundry on the Pride of America you will find a bag with laundry slips with pricing in your closet. If this is not in your closet get…
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First time Cruiser Tips and Tricks
Hey there first time cruisers! My name is Justin and I just wanted to share some basic cruise tips that might make things just a bit easier for you as you start cruising. 1. Remove Items you wont use. Are those wine glasses destined to remain untouched throughout the entire journey? What about the redundant coffee table or the extra chair? Don’t hesitate to request their removal. The crew is…
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Pride of America Cruise Ship NCL- Printable Help
DOWNLOAD AND PRINT Great for group leaders, Travel agents and planners on the Pride of America cruise. I started a collection of Pride of America cruise helpful documents that you can download and print to share with your groups. If you cant print them just share the link to this page and cruisers and just download them to their phones for easy access while on the ship. Deck Plans and Guides We have printable deck plans and maps for the Pride of America so…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 15 – Fun and Festive Cruise Accessories
Hey there, cruisers! Justin here, and let’s talk about the fun and quirky tradition of hiding cruise ducks. You see, cruise ducks are these adorable rubber ducks that people bring on cruises to hide around the ship for others to find. It’s like a little game of hide-and-seek that adds an extra layer of fun to your cruise experience. People hide cruise ducks in all sorts of clever places,…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 14 – Cruising with Kids!
Cruising with Kids: Be Prepared for Anything! Traveling with kids can be an adventure in itself! Here are some tips to keep your little ones happy and entertained during your cruise: For Kids’ Clubs or Childcare Services: Additional Items: By packing these items, you’ll be well-prepared for any surprises and ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise for the whole family. Mahalo, and happy cruising! Be sure to check the…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 13 – Cruise Electronics
Stay Connected and Organized on Your Cruise Hey there, cruisers! Justin here, with tips on how to stay connected and entertained during your cruise vacation. Packing the right electronics can make a big difference in your experience. Here’s a checklist to help you stay connected and organized: By packing these electronics, you’ll be prepared to stay connected, entertained, and organized throughout your cruise vacation. Mahalo, and happy cruising! Be…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 12 -Cruise Accessories
Essential Cruise Accessories Embarking on a cruise is an adventure, and having the right accessories can enhance your experience. Here’s a list of accessories you don’t want to be without: Additional Accessories: By packing these accessories, you’ll be well-prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience. Mahalo, and happy cruising! Read the next packing checklist Part 13 Still need to buy some cruise essentials? Make sure not to wait until…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 11 – Cruise Day Carry On
Prepare for Cabin Wait Time Aloha, cruisers! Justin here, with some tips for the wait time before your cruise cabin is ready. It’s common for cruise lines to have designated embarkation times, which means you might have to wait a few hours before accessing your cabin. Here’s what you can pack in your carry-on to make the wait more comfortable: By packing these items in your carry-on, you’ll be…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 10 – Port Days and Tours
Pack Smart for Cruise Tours and Excursions Aloha, cruisers! Justin here, with tips on packing smartly for your cruise tours and excursions. When your ship docks and you’re ready to explore, having the right items with you can enhance your onshore experience. Here’s what you need: By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy your day in port and make the most of your time ashore. Mahalo, and…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 9 – Carry on Luggage
Packing Smart in Your Carry-On Aloha, travelers! Justin here, reminding you to pack wisely in your carry-on, as luggage can sometimes get lost before cruises. I have seen it happen many times while working on the Pride of America Cruise and sometimes the luggage is not returned until Thursday of the cruise! It’s essential to pack essentials and items you can’t travel without. Here’s a list of items for…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 8 -Theme Nights
Packing for Formal and Theme Nights Aloha, cruisers! Justin here with some tips on what to pack for formal and theme nights on your Pride of America cruise. Formal nights(Pride of America has one then one all white night) are a great opportunity to dress up, so be sure to pack elegant outfits. Additionally, theme nights add fun and variety to your cruise experience, so pack accordingly. Here’s a…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 7 – Clothing Basics
Don’t Forget Your Cruise Ship Clothing Basics Aloha, cruisers! Justin here with some tips on packing the right clothing for your Pride of America cruise. Packing the right clothes ensures you’re comfortable and prepared for any activity onboard or during port visits. Here’s a checklist to help you pack smart: Casual Attire: Note: For colder climates or cool evenings, bring layers, including sweaters or jackets. Dining Room Attire for…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist – Part 6 – Basic Toiletries
Pack Your Essentials to Avoid Last-Minute Runs Aloha, cruisers! Justin here, reminding you to pack all your essential toiletries and personal items so you don’t have to rush to a ABC store during your cruise. Having these items on hand can make or break your cruise experience, so it’s crucial to plan ahead. Here’s a checklist to ensure you have everything you need: By packing these items, you’ll have…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist – First Aid – Part 5
Avoid Using Cruise Ship Medical for Small Things Aloha, travelers! Justin here with some practical advice to help you avoid unnecessary trips to the cruise ship’s medical center for minor issues. The Pride of America doesn’t have a well-stocked store for basic medical supplies, and you don’t want to be caught without essentials. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re prepared for small mishaps: By bringing these items, you can…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 4 – Disability and Mobility
Plan Ahead for Your Mobility Needs on the Ship Aloha, cruisers! Justin here, with some important tips for those needing mobility accommodations on the Pride of America. It’s essential to plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise. Make sure the group service coordinator on the ship knows about any special accommodations you need, and check with the shore excursions team to see if you can bring your…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 3 – Medical and Prescriptions
Fill Prescriptions and Make Sure to Pack Them Aloha, travelers! Justin here, reminding you to prepare your medications before you set sail on the Pride of America. Needing to use the cruise ship’s medical services can be expensive, so it’s important to have all your medications and a backup plan ready. For example on the Pride of America Cruise Ship when I was on it, it would cost around…
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Best Cruise Packing Checklist Part 2 – Secure documentation you need for the cruise.
Secure All the Documentation You Need for the Cruise Aloha, travelers! Justin here, ready to help you get all your documentation in order for your Pride of America cruise. Addressing these logistical details in advance means you can avoid last-minute hassles and focus on enjoying your cruise. Here’s a checklist to make sure you’ve got everything covered: By securing all the necessary documents ahead of time, you’ll ensure a…
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Best Pre-Cruise things to get done Packing Checklist – Part 1
Pre-planning for a cruise vacation is crucial for a seamless and enjoyable experience. First and foremost, it allows travelers to secure the best deals on accommodations, ensuring that they have access to preferred cabins, amenities, and even early booking discounts. Additionally, careful pre-planning enables individuals to create a well-thought-out itinerary, maximizing their time in each port of call and making the most of onboard activities. It provides an opportunity to research and select excursions, dining options, and…
