We are new at this and would like to know opinions on what is the best time to board for a cruise. Our ship departs at 4:00 p.m. tomorrow (August 16, 2015). Boarding starts at 1:00 p.m., and we are considering being among the first to board so we will have time to explore the ship. Is that a good idea?

HTtY

This is our experience. You will plenty of time that evening to explore the ship regardless of when you board. We tend to board in the last 30 minutes if that is convenient. (But almost missed a cruise once doing that - another story. There will be a mob boarding from 1 to 2pm so lines are long and a big rush for the cafeteria and the food. No lines at 3.30pm so you literally just walk on with a few quick stops. If you are nervous shoot for 3pm. Go to your cabin, dump your carryon and id your life boat station. You might even go find it. There will be life boat drill shortly after boarding closes - around 4.30. Pain in the butt for about 45 minutes because some idiots always refuse to pay attention. The ship is dead serious about life boat drills even if you are not. After the drill is over head to the "Sail Away" party.

I've only been on one Alaska cruise, and my experience is similar to fmpden's. VERY long queues for the first couple of hours.

Thanks for the advice. We live in Seattle from where the ship leaves and returns. I was trying to decide if we should have lunch at home or check in early and have lunch on ship. We will have a light lunch at home and Uber over to Pier 91 at about 2:30-3:00.

HTtY

As a reminder, unless you do carry on luggage only, you will be separated from your luggage so be sure your cabin tags are attached. Since you are from Seattle I doubt if traveling lite will be on your screen. Which cruise line did you finally decide to book?

Thanks for the tip.

We will be on the Ruby Princess. It is the one going when we want to go and that leaves from and returns to Seattle.

HTtY