8 Tips for Navigating Cruise Terminals on Embarkation Day
Though the first day of your cruise vacation is an exciting one, it can also feel overwhelming as you navigate cruise terminals on embarkation day. Here are some tips to help you navigate cruise terminals, including those in Seattle and Vancouver.
Preparing for Cruise Embarkation
Tip #1: Know which cruise terminal you’re sailing out of.
Whichever port you’re cruising out of, ensure you closely monitor communication from Holland America Line for updates or changes to embarkation. We also recommend downloading our Navigator App for real-time updates about the cruise throughout your vacation.
In Seattle: There are two cruise terminals. You’ll usually find Holland America Line leaving from Pier 91, known as Smith Cove Cruise Terminal. Pier 91 is located at 2001 W. Garfield Way. However, sometimes we depart from the Bell Street Cruise Terminal, known as Pier 66, at 2225 Alaskan Way. Always check your embarkation documents to confirm which cruise terminal you’re departing from. This will ensure you know in advance where to go, helping you save time.
In Vancouver: The only cruise terminal is Canada Place, located at 999 Canada Place, Vancouver. It’s in the heart of downtown Vancouver.
Tip #2: Explore transportation services that will get you to the port.
In Seattle: You can find various transportation options that will get you to the cruise terminal on embarkation day. Many hotels provide shuttle services. There are also cruise shuttle buses from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Another option is a ride-share service. To ensure a smooth trip from the airport to the terminal – or hotel to the terminal – consider booking in advance.
In Vancouver: You can book a cruise-line transfer from the airport, but make sure you do so in advance to secure seats. Transfers from the airport to the pier on embarkation day usually begin at 10:00 a.m. and end at 12:30 p.m. Otherwise, you can explore ride-share options or Canada Line SkyTrain. The SkyTrain connects the airport to downtown Vancouver.
If you’re parking at the port, confirm in advance which parking lot to go to and what costs may apply. Having this mapped out will help you save time finding the lot designated for cruise passengers. You can often find this information posted on the port’s website. Some parking lots provide discounts to cruise passengers who book in advance.
Tip #3: Ensure you have all travel documents with you before heading to the terminal.
Gather all necessary travel documents to ensure they are readily accessible at the cruise terminal. This includes your cruise boarding pass, passport and other required identification documents, if applicable. For example, if your cruise includes stops in countries that require visa documentation, you’ll want that, too. Having the right travel documents readily accessible is critical to a smooth process at the terminal.
Note: For Canada/USA entry, it is really important that guests verify their need for visas (ESTA for US/ETA for Canada), as these need to be applied for a minimum of 72 hours in advance of departure. Make sure you apply on the official government website to minimize delays and extra costs. You can learn more about identification requirements in our Know Before You Go FAQ.
Tip #4: Arrive early so you don’t feel rushed.
The busiest time to arrive at ports is generally between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. You may want to arrive between 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. or 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. to navigate lines, dependent on your embarkation time.
Another tip: You may be able to check in online before you arrive at the terminal. Though you will still have to go through security, completing check-in online pre-cruise could help speed up your onboarding process.
Tip #5: Tag your luggage and know where the drop-off zone is.
Make sure tags (which you can print at home pre-cruise) are attached to your luggage with your last name and stateroom number clearly marked for ease of delivery onboard. You can often find secured luggage tag holders made for cruise-line tags from online retailers.
It’s important that you drop off large luggage at the drop-off area for your cruise line, only bringing a carry-on bag with you through the terminal.
In Seattle: There is usually a designated drop-off area outside the cruise terminal. Ask cruise-line representatives which drop-off zone is for your particular cruise. Porters will then transport your luggage to your stateroom from there.
In Vancouver: Luggage drop-off is based on mode of arrival and number of ships in port. Ask cruise-line representatives at the terminal for directions to your luggage drop-off area.
Tip #6: Keep essential items with you.
Only drop off luggage that you don’t need with you during security/check-in at the cruise terminal. Essential travel documents, medications and other critical items should stay with you in a carry-on bag.
Tip #7: Grab something to eat and drink at the terminal.
You may be waiting for a bit before you can board. You’ll likely find vending machines for a quick snack or drink to hold you over until you’re on the cruise ship.
Tip #8: Keep calm and cruise on.
Though cruise terminals can be busy, you’re just a few hours – and steps – away from the beginning of an unforgettable cruise vacation.
Using these tips to navigate cruise terminals, including those in Seattle and Vancouver, can help you have a great embarkation day. Staying informed, planning in advance and ensuring you have all essential items with you will make the first day of your cruise a smooth and exciting one.
