tender time waits

[muri96]

We have planned a 12 day Norwegian Jade cruise to the North Cape in July.

We want to plan an independent shore excursion in Leknes ( Lofoten Islands ), a

tendered port.

Given the size of this ship it this even a possibility.

[roger001]

I can't speak reference that port. However, tendering usually begins within 30 minutes after a ship anchors. First off are guests on NCL sponsored tours and suite guests, if they wish. Then tendering begins by calling numbers. You can get a tendering number sometimes the night before, sometimes early morning of the port stop. You would just have to get in the tendering ticket line early for an early number after the opportunity is announced. Numbered tendering usually ends in 2 or 3 hours after the crowds thin. Then it goes to open tendering where you just walk down and get on one. However, tour operators totally realize the issues of a ship in port, including how long it takes guests to get off the ship. So a reputable non NCL tour should be ok. The tour operator can't make money until the guests get off the ship. Just plan on getting in line for an early number though. And one person can pick up tendering numbers for all in their party. And the Jade isn't really one of the bigger ships. It is a nice medium size.

[casofilia]

As long as you get an early ticket there should be no problem provided ALL people on the tour are with you as you get off. You will read on the Freestyle Daily when and where to get the ticket. Get there early, I get up early to walk on the promenade deck and have seen that the queue has started 90 minutes before the actual time.

[Budget Queen]

I have sailed NCL in Europe several times with tenders. Priority is given to Gold and platinum and above as well. I have seen LONG waits involved. Do you have any priority?

 

If not, then yes it's essential you get in the tender ticket line- early. Like at least an hour prior. Then be ready to go.

 

 

I find in Europe - there are a lot of people who want off the ship early so, I would not book a tour where you don't have enough time- if you do not have any priority.

[BirdTravels]

As long as you get an early ticket there should be no problem provided ALL people on the tour are with you as you get off. You will read on the Freestyle Daily when and where to get the ticket. Get there early, I get up early to walk on the promenade deck and have seen that the queue has started 90 minutes before the actual time.

 

Not always true. We have been on many tours with the meeting point on the dock. Up to you get on a tender in time to meet with your group on shore.