Royal Caribbean warns of longer boarding waits on two transatlantic cruises
Passengers on Odyssey of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas could spend more than 90 minutes waiting in terminals because of added immigration processing.
Royal Caribbean has advised passengers booked on two upcoming transatlantic sailings to prepare for extended embarkation waits under the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System.
According to emails sent to guests, every passenger will undergo face-to-face immigration processing in the terminal after check-in and before boarding, regardless of citizenship or residency. The company said the additional step is required because the cruises depart the European Union and could produce terminal waits exceeding 90 minutes.
Passengers were instructed to arrive during their selected arrival windows because terminal space is limited. The guidance indicated that guests arriving outside those times could be turned away, potentially in uncomfortable weather. Passengers must also carry a passport book, rather than a passport card, valid for at least six months beyond the cruise’s end or face being denied boarding.
Odyssey of the Seas is scheduled to leave Civitavecchia on October 25 for a 14-night crossing. Its itinerary includes calls in Italy, Spain, Portugal and the Azores before ending in Cape Bayonne, New Jersey. Explorer of the Seas is due to depart Barcelona on October 31 for a 13-night transatlantic voyage.
