TexasKittie23

We had staggered check in on the Breeze in June. We checked in at 10:30, but still didn't get to board until 11:30. All the staggered check in really does is help keep the lines from getting backed up at check-in. I've heard some people say they were able to board as early as 10:30, but I wouldn't count on it. If you check in early you will probably still have to sit and wait for boarding.

ok, so we could go at any time and they will always use the gift card amount before the credit card, no matter when we add it?

 

We will definitely hit the bar first thing then and not worry about the kiosk until the lines die down.

 

thanks for the tip!

This is correct. Think of your S&S card as a running tab. Nothing is charged until the very end. Definitely wait until lines are short, or use one of the many kiosks to load your gift card. The kiosks by Guest Services almost always had people using them, but the others located randomly around the different decks hardly ever had people on them.

I'm sure this varies ship to ship, but just have fun when you board and worry about adding your gift card later. You'll have plenty of time. Just don't forget like I did. But that gave me a reason to book another cruise ;)