What to Do If Your Family Misses a Cruise Ship and Gets Stranded

It happens more often than you might think. Relaxed cruisers are enjoying the wonder of a new port of call when they lose track of time and miss their ship. While you can help to mitigate the chances of this happening with the right planning and attention to the clock, you should also be prepared for the unlikely event that your ship leaves without you. Here is what you should do if your family misses your cruise ship and becomes stranded.

Don't Panic

The number one thing to remember is to not panic. While this is easier said than done, you will not solve any problems if you are filled with fear. Even if you find yourself stranded, it is important to remember that you are still on vacation and you will get home eventually. Keeping a cool head will help you to take the right steps to be on your way as soon as possible.

Find a Port Agent

Once you realize that you have missed your ship, it is vital to contact a port agent quickly. Most cruise lines have these agents stationed at each port to help in these types of situations. These officials will know what to do and how to contact the ship so that you can make arrangements to meet up with them later or to get home.

Emergency Loan

It is no surprise that being stranded in a port of call may necessitate a great deal of money to get out. An emergency loan can give you the liquid cash that you need to pay for airfare, hotel accommodations, clothing or any other items that you may need until you reunite with the ship and your belongings. Remember that you can take steps to avoid lowering your credit score and rating if you are worried about this.

Retrieve Your Belongings

If you decide to simply fly back home from where you are stranded rather than try to meet the ship at a later port of call, you are going to need to figure out a way to retrieve your belongings that you left on board. This is also why it is a good idea to always bring your wallet, passport and other essential documents when you are not on the ship.

Although missing your ship will surely cause some anxiety, it does not have to ruin your vacation. Knowing what to do ahead of time will help you to remain calm and make the best decisions for your family.

To make things easier for your family while you’re off walking around the port, try one of our child or toddler backpacks!