Skip to Main Content

What do I need to do before disembarkation?

Disembarkation information is provided shortly before the end of your cruise and includes procedures for customs formalities, luggage handling, travel arrangements, disembarkation, and other related details.

Complete the disembarkation form (if needed)

  • A disembarkation form will be distributed if Holland America Line does not have your disembarkation information, or if it does not have your flight schedule

  • Complete the form and return it to Guest Services as soon as possible

Luggage handling on the last night

On the last night of your cruise, place your baggage outside your stateroom before you retire.

  • Do not place baggage over the emergency floor lighting

  • Ensure the appropriate baggage tags are affixed to each bag, because tags include your departing flight information

What to keep with you (do not put in tagged luggage)

  • Do not place valuables in tagged luggage

  • Keep key items with you so you can access them easily

Keep with you or keep in a carry-on bag:

  • Personal identification

  • Electronic airline tickets

  • Customs forms

  • Medications

  • Other important items

  • The clothes and shoes you intend to wear on the last day

  • Cash, credit cards, or debit cards

  • Jewelry, gold, silver, or similar valuables

  • Securities, financial instruments, records, or other valuable or business documents

  • Laptop computers, cellular telephones, cameras, or other video or electronic equipment

  • Hearing aids

  • Electric wheelchairs or scooters

  • Binoculars

  • Film, videotape, computer disks, audio disks, tapes, or CDs

Ship card reminder

  • You will need your ship card when you disembark

  • Have it available at the gangway, and do not pack it in your tagged luggage

Onboard account settlement

  • On the morning of disembarkation, guests with no credit card payment need to settle their onboard account

  • Promotional credits are nonrefundable, and cash deposits can be made on the last day of the cruise

Disembarkation time and what to expect in port

  • The ship’s estimated arrival time at the port of disembarkation is shown on your cruise itinerary

  • Upon arrival, the ship is subject to government procedural requirements. After completion, guests will be allowed to disembark

  • Disembarkation is usually completed within two to four hours after the ship’s arrival, and all guests are required to disembark during this timeframe

  • Outbound flights should be scheduled with plenty of time for transfers from the ship to the airport, and the time needed depends on the disembarkation port

Luggage Direct Service

For guests who want additional support with post-cruise luggage handling, Holland America Line offers a Luggage Direct Service option on select sailings.

We've made some updates to improve your experience.

Refresh the page to see the latest changes.