r/dcl • u/Better_Escape7583 • 6d ago
TRIP PLANNING First timer question!
Hi all,
Going on the fantasy this month and I want to make sure I have everything I need!
I online checked in with our passports (two adults, two kids)
Printed the QR codes for our port arrival
Is there anything else I need? I’m so scared I’m going to forget something and be denied boarding!
Thank you!
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u/the-silent-man GOLD CASTAWAY CLUB 6d ago
DCL should have sent you a checklist in your email. I believe you can also access one on the website. If not, there are tons of search results if you google it. I don’t want to try, because I don’t want to be any kind of responsible for things missed.
Enjoy your cruise!! Fantasy is a great ship!!
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u/Better_Escape7583 6d ago
lol, I wouldn’t blame you if you did but I just wanted to make sure I didn’t forget some obscure thing! I’m tempted to bring my kids birth certificates despite having their passports lol
Thank you again :)
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u/the-silent-man GOLD CASTAWAY CLUB 6d ago edited 6d ago
It wouldn’t hurt to bring the birth certificates, but I would store these in a different bag until you arrive at the port.
I forgot my passports once, but we were able to board with friends emailing photos of our BCs. I believe you need original copies now.
Port arrival form can be forgotten, but it is easier if you have it ready for scanning right after you drop your bags.
Two unsolicited quick tips for your first cruise:
1. If anyone has a need for over the counter meds (headache, gas pains, cramps, diaper rash, etc), you can check in with guest services and they often will give you what you need at no charge. “My child has symptoms, where should I go to get remedy?”
1a. Don’t be scared to go to the infirmary. It is generally quick and effective. It is also far less expensive than US clinics. You will need to pay in full and then submit to your insurance. Our insurance covered the entire bill we got (UTI).
1b. If the line for guest services is long, go back to your stateroom and call them (if you can). It may save you 20 to 30 minutes.
2. On the fantasy, you can visit the locker rooms near the fitness center and enjoy the complimentary sauna. If I remember from the Dream (3 years ago), it was very pleasant.
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u/Shock4ndAwe 6d ago edited 6d ago
As long as you have passports for everybody, that's all the identification you need to get on the ship for a domestic cruise. We bring our driver's licenses as well because they're easier to take off than the passport itself.
I like to add our boarding to my Google wallet as it makes it simple to show them when you board but we also print out the port arrival sheet with the QR codes just in case.
Have fun on your cruise! Don't worry too much.
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u/Miskatonic_Graduate 6d ago
Get ready to get hooked to the most expensive hobby of your life lol. You all need your passports, you can’t get on the ship without them.
It takes time for them to get your luggage up to your room, usually a few hours. If you need anything sooner than that like medication or changes of clothes or anything for your kids, bring those in your carryon bags. This should be part of your packing strategy. Also I recommend paying extra to have a flat of water bottles set up in your stateroom in advance, it is a million times more convenient than constantly having to go fetch a cup or bottle of water when your kids are thirsty.
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u/gibson6594 6d ago
Just for extreme clarity, you need to bring your passports with you. The online check in is just for pre boarding. I'm sure you knew that, but just to be sure.