Michael Turner
At the terminal: arrive early for bag drop – allow 90–120 minutes for processing, security screening and transport to the vessel. Tag checked items with full name, phone and booking number; keep a copy of the tag number and photograph the contents for claims. Weigh suitcases at home to avoid oversized fees charged at the pier.
Carry-on essentials: store passports, boarding documents, prescription medicines, wallets, electronics and valuable jewelry in your cabin bag. Follow airline 3-1-1 liquid rules for items that will pass airport security; stow extra liquids and aerosols in checked pieces only if permitted by the operator and local law.
Battery-powered devices: lithium-ion batteries, spare power banks and e-cigarette cells must travel in carry-on; do not pack spare batteries in checked pieces. Items such as hoverboards, self-balancing scooters and large battery packs are frequently barred from both checked and carry-on transport–confirm in advance.
Prohibited and regulated items: firearms, fireworks, propane, certain tools, and combustible/flammable substances are not permitted. Many operators disallow irons, candles and open-flame devices in staterooms. Sporting gear (bicycles, surfboards, golf clubs) and oversized musical instruments typically require advance notice and extra fees.
Packing strategy: choose soft-sided bags for easier stateroom storage, use TSA-approved locks, and place fragile items inside carry-on when possible. Label all items and pack a small overnight kit that will cover the first 24 hours in case checked pieces are delayed.
Final step: consult the ship operator’s official baggage page and your booking confirmation for exact allowances, special-item procedures and current fee schedules before you travel.
Baggage policy for sailings – immediate recommendation
Limit checked suitcases to two pieces per guest, each no heavier than 50 lb (23 kg) and no larger than 62 linear inches (158 cm); carry one cabin-sized bag plus one personal item containing passports, boarding documents, prescription medicines and valuables.
Size, weight and count specifics
Target checked-piece dimensions: 62 linear inches (sum of length + width + height) and weight ≤50 lb (23 kg). Carry-ons should fit overhead or under the seat and contain essentials for the first 24 hours ashore. Infant gear (strollers, car seats) is usually accepted in addition to standard pieces but confirm availability of onboard storage. Oversized or unusually shaped items may require advance approval or special handling fees.
Prohibited items & practical packing tips
Do not pack firearms, fireworks, explosives, flammable liquids, hoverboards or loose lithium batteries in checked or carry-on bags; many ports also prohibit fresh fruit, vegetables and meat. Place identification tags on every bag and include a copy of travel documents inside. Keep one change of clothes, swimwear, chargers and essential toiletries in your carry-on. Photograph bag contents and the exterior tag for insurance purposes. Check the operator’s current baggage and prohibited-item policy before travel and at online check-in.
Checked baggage: permitted dimensions, weight limits and required labeling
Limit each checked bag to 62 linear inches (length + width + height) and 50 lb (23 kg); bags larger or heavier than these measurements can be refused at the gangway or subject to additional handling charges.
Measure with wheels and external pockets included; fold or retract telescoping handles before measuring. Use a luggage scale at home to confirm weight before arrival.
| Specification | Limit / Recommendation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum overall size | 62 linear inches (157.5–158 cm) | Measure L + W + H including wheels and handles; soft-sided bags that compress slightly are preferred where space is tight. |
| Maximum weight per bag | 50 lb (23 kg) | Bags over 50 lb may be refused, re-packed by staff, or incur handling fees; over 70 lb (32 kg) is frequently not accepted for manual handling. |
| Locks | TSA-approved combination or key locks recommended | If security inspection is required, staff will open and reseal checked bags; TSA-approved locks allow inspection without cutting. |
| External tagging | Durable tag with full name and primary phone | Place tag on handle or zipper pull; remove old carrier tags to avoid confusion. |
| Required information (external) | Full legal name, contact phone with country code, reservation ID or stateroom number, departure date | Print clearly in block letters; use a waterproof label or laminated card. |
| Internal copy | Duplicate identification and itinerary copy inside the bag | Include name, phone, reservation ID and emergency contact; helps recovery if external tag detaches. |
| Visual ID | Bright ribbon or strap + unique tag color | Speeds identification on crowded luggage decks; avoid large permanent stickers that obscure official tags. |
On day of check-in, attach an external printed tag and keep a photograph of bag and tag on your phone for proof. For fragile contents, mark “FRAGILE” clearly and pack with extra padding; notify port staff at drop-off so handling can be noted. Remove old transit labels to prevent misrouting.
Carry-on rules at boarding: size, allowed items and security screening advice
Bring one carry-on bag no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm) plus one personal item; keep passports, boarding documents, prescription medications, wallet, phone, camera and small valuables with you until your cabin opens.
Liquid and toiletry limits: follow TSA 3-1-1 – containers ≤3.4 fl oz (100 ml) placed in a single clear quart-sized resealable bag. Duty-free items in sealed tamper-evident bags with receipt are generally accepted at terminal screening but must remain sealed until after security inspection.
Electronics and batteries: remove laptops and tablets from carry-on for x-ray bins when requested; smartphones may stay in pockets but should be easy to access. Spare lithium-ion batteries and power banks are permitted only in hand-carried items and must be individually protected against short-circuit (original packaging or covered terminals). Large portable coolers and engine-driven devices are frequently restricted – verify terminal policy before packing.
Prohibited or commonly confiscated items: irons, steamers, hot plates, fuel canisters, aerosols (non-toiletry sprays), knives, firearms, ammunition, fireworks, personal flares, large glass bottles of alcohol, and industrial-strength adhesives. E-cigarettes and vaping devices must remain in carry-on and are not allowed in checked storage.
Medical and special-needs guidance: keep prescription drugs in original packaging with labels; carry a paper or digital copy of prescriptions and a brief note from your clinician for injectable supplies (insulin syringes). Notify security staff if carrying medical oxygen or other devices requiring inspection.
Screening efficiency tips: place liquids bag and large electronics near the top of your carry-on for quick removal; have photo ID and boarding pass ready on your phone or paper; photograph passports and travel documents and store in cloud access. Pack a single outfit and essentials (swimsuit, undergarments) in carry-on in case checked items are delayed.
Port-side planning: check terminal and port rules for food, coolers and specialty items before departure; for example, shore-day planning in San Diego may include local attractions such as the best aquarium in san diego ca, which can affect what you bring ashore.
Charges and procedures for oversized, overweight or additional bags
Prepay extra-piece fees online where possible; prepayment commonly reduces the charge by about 15–40% compared with paying at the port.
Typical fee tiers and size/weight thresholds
- Additional checked piece: average range $50–$150 per item, depending on embarkation port and operator policy.
- Overweight surcharge: common bracket for 51–70 lb (23–32 kg) – $50–$100; 71–100 lb (32–45 kg) – $100–$200; pieces over ~100 lb frequently require freight handling or will be refused.
- Oversize surcharge: combined linear dimensions (length + width + height) over 62 inches / 158 cm typically classified as oversized – fee $75–$200; items above ~108 inches / 274 cm usually must be shipped separately.
- Special-item fees: bicycles, surfboards, golf bags, strollers and car seats often carry separate charges of $50–$200 depending on size and whether crating is required.
- Freight/shipping option: commercial freight to the pier or port handling can cost $100–$500+ based on distance, weight, and whether crating is needed; door-to-ship services carry additional fees.
Practical procedures and handling steps
- At bag-drop the staff will weigh and measure; expect to pay surplus charges at the counter or via an online link if prepay is offered.
- If a piece exceeds handling limits staff may request redistribution of contents into additional pieces – have spare empty bags or packing cubes available to split weight quickly.
- Items that cannot be safely handled by port crews (very heavy or oversized) will be refused for onboard delivery and must be routed as freight; notify the operator in advance for any item >70 lb or oversized gear.
- For mobility devices and battery-powered equipment: declare in advance, remove batteries if required, and provide manufacturer documentation when requested; advance notification prevents refusal at the terminal.
- When shipping ahead using courier or freight: label every package with passenger full name, sail date, ship/operator name (if requested), and cabin number; schedule delivery 7–14 days before departure to allow for port handling.
- Keep medicines, travel documents, electronics and valuables in your carry-on; port personnel may not allow immediate access once checked items are accepted.
- Obtain and keep receipts for any surcharges, freight bills and special-handling forms; photograph tags and contents for insurance claims if a bag is lost or damaged.
- Tipping for porter/terminal staff: typical local custom is $2–$5 per bag for assistance; adjust for large or heavy items.
Transport rules for sports gear, musical instruments and large equipment
Notify the ship operator at least 72 hours before boarding for any item longer than 62 linear inches or weighing more than 50 lb, and arrange advance freight or special handling for items exceeding those dimensions.
Sports equipment: use rigid, impact-rated cases for golf clubs, skis, snowboards and surfboards; pad contact points with foam and secure with internal straps. For bicycles: deflate tires to <30 psi, remove pedals and rotate handlebars, place in a purpose-built bike box. Electric bicycles and boards with removable lithium batteries require battery removal and separate carriage per battery capacity rules (see below); e‑bikes without removable batteries generally must be transported by approved freight carriers only.
Scuba and compressed-gas cylinders must be emptied, valves left open and tagged by a certified dive shop or filling station prior to terminal delivery; filled tanks, oxygen cylinders and fuel containers are not permitted on board. Fuel cans, aerosol spray and wet suits with fuel residue are prohibited.
Musical instruments: store high-value instruments in ATA-rated hard cases and clearly label with name, phone and booking identifier. Small instruments that fit within the operator’s carry-on dimensions may be carried into the terminal, but fragile or oversized instruments should be shipped via specialist couriers with insurance and a packing list. For cellos or similarly large items, pre-book onboard stowage with guest services to avoid denied acceptance at check-in.
Batteries and hazardous materials: lithium-ion batteries up to 100 Wh may typically be carried in personal items if terminals are insulated; spare batteries must be in carry-on with terminals taped or in original packaging. Batteries between 100–160 Wh require operator approval and written documentation; units above 160 Wh are normally prohibited from both checked and carry-on. Wet batteries, fuel cells, compressed gas cartridges and oxidizers are banned.
Labeling and documentation: attach a waterproof tag with full name, phone, booking number and “fragile/special handling” if applicable. Include an itemized list and value for expensive gear; retain shipping receipts and a signed terminal acceptance form when handing over oversized equipment. For photographic rigs and timing advice for specialized setups see best time for umbrella rig.
On-site procedure: present items to the terminal check-in desk before passenger check-in closes, declare batteries and compressed items, and obtain written confirmation of acceptance and return procedure. If the operator refuses an item, arrange ground freight to destination or delayed shipment back home; do not attempt to board with prohibited contents.
Guidelines for medical devices, prescription medication and mobility aids onboard
Bring a 7–14 day extra supply of prescription medications in original pharmacy-labeled containers and carry them in your carry-on.
Documentation: Carry the original prescription(s), a physician’s letter describing diagnosis and necessity (signed and dated), a printed medication list with generic names and dosages, allergy information, and emergency contact details. Store digital copies (photo or PDF) on your phone and cloud storage.
Controlled substances: Keep original pharmacy labels and the prescriber’s note; present these at security or medical desk if requested. Do not transfer pills into unlabeled organizers for transport–use daily pill boxes for short-term use but retain original bottles for inspection.
Portable oxygen and concentrators (POC): Obtain written approval from the operator’s medical team before travel. Bring the manufacturer’s approval letter, POC specifications (model, weight, power consumption), and batteries sufficient for at least 150% of expected use between ports plus one spare set. Ship-supplied oxygen may be available for a fee; confirm refill and delivery policy in writing.
CPAP and sleep apnea devices: Verify approval with the ship’s medical department. Pack a medical-grade HEPA or bacterial filter if required, the device manual, and an AC/DC inverter or approved battery if shore power might be interrupted. Keep the device in carry-on during transfers.
Power wheelchairs and mobility scooters: Notify the operator at least 30 days prior and submit make, model, folded dimensions, total weight (including battery), and clear photos. Provide battery type and specification sheet. Non-spillable sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries are generally accepted; lithium-ion batteries require prior written permission and are subject to watt-hour (Wh) limits.
Batteries and watt-hour calculations: Record battery voltage (V) and ampere-hour (Ah) to calculate Wh (Wh = V × Ah) and include that figure in your submission. Lithium batteries >100 Wh but ≤300 Wh may be permitted with approval; batteries >300 Wh are frequently prohibited. Label batteries clearly and tape terminal ends if loose.
Onboard handling, charging and storage: Request written confirmation about charging options and whether crew will store or secure bulky devices. Expect limitations on charging lithium batteries; crew may accept sealed lead-acid batteries for charging under supervision. Bring your charger, any required adapters, and locking straps or covers for protection during transit.
Tenders, shore transfers and accessibility: Recognize that tendering or small boats can limit access for heavy equipment. Carry a lightweight manual backup wheelchair or folding cane as a contingency. Confirm shore-side accessibility at planned ports and arrange port assistance where needed.
Repairs, loss and insurance: Obtain travel insurance that covers repair or replacement of mobility equipment. Pack spare parts (nuts, bolts, tires) and a basic repair kit if feasible. Photograph serial numbers and upload documentation to cloud storage for claims.
Quick checklist to present when contacting the operator’s medical team: make/model photos; device dimensions and total weight; battery type and Wh; physician’s letter; prescription copies; planned oxygen/POC runtime and spare batteries; request written approval and keep that confirmation with travel documents.
