10 Things to Bring With You On Port Days

What better way to see the world than on board a cruise ship? All you have to do is arrive at your cabin, unpack once, and then allow a floating city to take you to all your favorite destinations. 

When it comes to port days, sometimes it’s nice to step off the ship with no greater plan than to wander around the city. Other times, it’s nice to partake in some of the ship’s offerings for group tours and activities. Whichever way the day will unfold for you, here’s everything you need to bring with you to ensure a fun-filled, relaxed day of exploration. 

Your Cruise Card

The first, most important, thing you need to bring with you is your cruise card. What’s displayed on each card varies from ship to ship. Some contain sensitive information like your nationality and passport number. Others only display general details like your stateroom, dining areas, and account number. Either way, be sure to keep it in a safe space, as it’s your ticket to getting on and off the ship. 

Photo ID & Money

The next most important thing will be photo ID of some sort. We recommend leaving your passport in the cabin and taking your driver’s license instead. Losing your driver’s license at the bottom of the sea is not as catastrophic as losing your passport. That said, do save a photo of your passport on your phone, just in case you need to reference it at some point. 

Then, you might like to have one of your credit cards on hand, should you want to stop for a meal in town or buy a drink by the sea. But, again, think about what you want to take with you versus what you want to leave in the safety of your cabin. A debit card might prove to be more handy, in case you need to go to an ATM and take out some of the local currency. Just be sure you don’t lose that, either! 

Excursion Tickets

If you’ve booked a specific excursion for your port day, double-check you have everything for that activity. Whether you have digital tickets or an old-fashioned ticket, you’ll want to have that in hand, as well, for when you meet your tour guide. 

Also, put a pin on Google Maps of the ship’s location before you walk towards your group tour. You never know how far you’ll wander, and you certainly don’t want to get lost on your way back to the ship. 

Excursion Outfitting

Then, depending on your excursion, you’ll also need the proper attire. So, will that be hiking books to hike through the forests in Sitka or a bathing suit for a day on the beach? If you’re kayaking, you might need waterproof gear. Be sure to think of everything from your attire to a waterproof case for your cellphone, should you go under or hit a big wave.