What to do the day of embarkation?

After we get on the ship, Empress of the Seas, what can we do? We were planning on getting to the dock early and hoping to get on the ship early. Can my girls go swimming?

Thanks,

Cutekatcar

On embarkation day I usually board early in the afternoon. I'm not sure, but from the name of your ship it sounds as though you are sailing on RCI. If so, in my experience the pools are usually open and so your girls will be able to go swimming. You can also have lunch. I like to check out the ship and familiarize myself with the layout and explore a bit.

At some point during the afternoon there will be a mandatory lifeboat drill that you [U]must[/U] attend. Once your luggage arrives you will probably want to unpack and get that over with. And then there is usually a Sail Away party. You will find a program in your cabin that may have some other activities listed as well.

There is lots to do, even on the first day.

Have a great time.

Linda :) :)

You'll be able to get on board a few hours before the boat sails and check out your cabin, have lunch and the girls can swim too!

Make sure you take your bathing suits in your carryon, you probably won't get your luggage in your room for a few hours.

Have fun!

Thanks so much. For some reason I didn't think we could swim. We need a lot of stuff in those carry-ons!!

Cutekatcar

My understanding (from what I've read) is that depending on the departure time, the safety drill may be between dinner seatings, mid-evening, rather than in the afternoon.

Embarkation day is the first day of your cruise, so I heartily recommend making the most of it. There will be plenty to do and explore, the bars are open, and you can find something to eat. Safety musters are usually held before the ship leaves port. Make a note of the time it is planned, so that you can dry off beforehand if you've been at the pool.

If you board very early--you might not be able to go to your cabin til 1pm- so you will be stuck carrying your stuff with you until then. People sometimes say they drop off their stuff before 1pm but know the cabin may not be secure until 1pm.

Go grab something to eat- the earlier it is the better--as the buffet does get very crowded as the afternoon wears on. The buffet will close right before the muster drill as does everything else. There will be no stores or casino opened until you have left and got into international waters.,

You may also want to check out your ding assignment. Just go tot he dinign room and see where you table is located and meets your requirements. That way if anything needs to be changed you can do so early enough.

You might want to take a tour of the kids area or the spa area to see whats available. Most kids clubs have a meeting at night you will want to get to.