You've started your daily countdown to your next cruise, and you've combed through all the shore excursions to select the perfect one. Now it's time to check in for your cruise.
Here's what you need to know about cruise check in, in order to streamline your time at the port.
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Step 1: Collect your documents.
4 to 6 months before your cruiseGenerally, check-in is available three months out from your sailing date. If you haven't already, check with your cruise line before this date to see whether your trip will require a passport. International destinations most certainly will, but even on a closed-loop cruise (where you start and end in the U.S.), some countries may require a passport.Next, collect your passport, birth certificate or valid ID and double-check that they aren't expired or will not expire within two months of your travels -- This also depends on where you are traveling. There is nothing worse than being surprised at the port that your documentation is expired or missing.We recommend making a copy of your passport to stow in your luggage in case it goes missing while you're on your trip. It's a great idea to do it now while you have plenty of time.Are you traveling solo with your kids and without the other parent? Check with both your airline and the cruise line to see if a parental consent form is required. If you have a different last name than your kids, you may need to bring your child's passport and birth certificate to prove that you are his or her parent.Related: Do You Need a Passport to Go On a Cruise?Step 2: Log on to your cruise line website.

Step 3: Print your documents and luggage tags.
1 to 2 weeks before your cruiseBy now you are probably starting to think about your packing list. Don't forget to print your cruise boarding passes and tuck them into a documents folder.You should also print luggage tags if you haven't received them by mail from your travel agent or cruise line. These go on your bags once you get to the port. (You can purchase special sleeves for the printed luggage tags so they're easier to affix to your suitcase once you've arrived at your destination, rather than worrying about finding a stapler.)Make any remaining appointments for the spa or specialty dining.Step 4: Head to the port.

Updated April 17, 2020
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