Embarkation Day on the Norwegian Encore: What to Expect


Is this your first time on a cruise ship? Wondering what to expect when you embark on the Norwegian Encore in Miami? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know for a smooth transition from land to sea!

Before You Leave for Port

1. Watch the Safety Video

Before you even step foot at the port, check your email for a safety video from Norwegian Cruise Line. You may receive multiple emails—just watch it once, and you’re good to go!

2. Dress for the Pool Deck

You’re on vacation, so start relaxing early! Wear your swimsuit, a coverup, and flip-flops so you can hit the pool deck as soon as you board.

3. Pack Smart

Bring sunscreen in your carry-on—Miami sun is no joke! Also, enter your boarding time in the cruise line’s app. While early arrivals aren’t encouraged, arriving within your chosen time frame or later is fine.

4. Print Your Documents

  • Boarding passes—have them ready.

  • Luggage tags—print, staple, and attach them securely to each suitcase.

    • Don’t have a stapler? Most hotel front desks do!

    • Pro tip: We used clear luggage tag holders with metal loops—more secure than staples and reusable!

5. Get Your Lanyards Ready

If you’re using a lanyard for your room key, keep it in your carry-on or around your neck for easy access. You won’t get your checked luggage immediately, so have your essentials handy.

At the Port

1. Check Your Luggage

Porters will take your bags upon arrival, and they will ask for tips. Be prepared with cash—we tipped $5 per suitcase. The porters will direct you to the correct entrance for security and boarding.

2. Airport-Style Security

Before reaching check-in, you’ll go through security similar to an airport:

  • No liquids allowed—dump any drinks before the x-ray machines.

  • Restrooms are available near the security queue if needed.

3. Check-In Process

  • Show your boarding pass and passport.

  • The agent will verify your identity and hand you your room keys.

  • Once you have your room key, you can toss your boarding pass—it’s no longer needed!

  • Time to board the ship!

Onboard the Ship

1. Muster Station Check-In

Before the ship can set sail, you must attend a muster station review.

  • Your muster station is listed on your room key.

  • Go straight there—don’t stop for a drink or snack first!

  • The faster you check-in, the sooner you can enjoy your vacation!

2. Explore the Ship

Your room won’t be ready immediately, so take this time to explore!

  • Avoid clogging up elevators and stairwells—many people are still completing their muster station check-in.

  • We opted for a quiet, relaxing spot: the Encore’s Observation Lounge—a hidden gem for snacks and drinks.

  • Vibe Beach Club Access? Head to the bar and order a mudslide!

When Your Stateroom is Ready

1. Expect Chaos

Once the announcement is made, everyone rushes to their rooms at once. Take your time—you're on vacation!

2. Meet Your Cabin Steward

Your steward will introduce themselves and ensure everything in your room is in order.

3. Luggage Arrival

Your bags may not arrive right away but don’t panic. In the meantime:

  • Unpack what you have.

  • Take a shower.

  • Get ready for dinner and evening entertainment!

Our Nightmare with Ground Transportation

We booked a Lyft from The Grayson Miami to the cruise dock. Simple, right? Not quite.

Our driver relied entirely on the Lyft app, ignoring the giant signs painted on the road directing traffic to the correct cruise terminals. We ended up circling the port twice, feeling like we were stuck in a scene from European Vacation.

"Hey kids! Big Ben, Parliament!"

Except in our case, it was:

"Hey lady! Dock B! And now... Dock C… and Dock D…"

Eventually, Lyft texted us, asking if everything was okay since we were moving farther from our destination. Not a great sign! We finally told our driver to just stop at Dock C (MSC Cruises) so we could escape the endless loop.

Thankfully, the MSC Cruises porter was incredibly kind and understanding. He laughed, pointed us in the right direction, and wished us a great trip. We walked to our correct terminal, thrilled to be finally boarding our cruise to paradise!

Wishing you a smooth embarkation day—Bon Voyage! 🚢