Welcome Aboard Symphony of the Seas

 Embarkation Day

National Conference 2019

Symphony of the Seas

We arrived at the Port of Miami around 10:00 AM. We got a glimpse of our home for the next week as our bus pulled into the terminal. We had several opportunities to get pictures of Symphony of the Seas as well as construction of a new Norwegian Cruise Line terminal.

click images to enlarge

Tip: Make sure to have all your bags tagged with your cabin information, prior to arriving at the pier, in the event the porters grab your carry-on bags as well.

The bus driver unloaded our luggage and porters were on hand to take our bags to the ship. We were able to get our carry-on  before they loaded them on the cart. A short walk to the terminal entrance and we were on our way through the embarkation process.

First stop was to check our passports and cruise documents, then on to security screening, and finally to the waiting area.  They wouldn't start boarding until shortly before 11 AM.   Turn around day is very hectic for the crew as the entire ship needs to be made ready for the arriving guests.

Tip: Be sure to print your Set Sail Passes or have you phone handy with your Royal Caribbean App.  We opted for paper method, but also had the app installed (always like that assurance in case technology fails us.)

Since we had a large group, and since we had an early general session on board at 1:30 PM, Royal Caribbean had a special waiting area set aside for us.  Much like an airline, they boarded the ship according to your cabin category or loyalty status.   First to board were the visitors who were there to tour the ship, then general boarding.

The cabins aren't ready when you board early, and the watertight doors to the cabin areas are closed.  We were able to drop off our bags in our cabin, however.   They really don't want you in the area while they are turning the ship around, but since we had a large group and were having a meeting in the theater before the ship sailed, they were pretty understanding and allowed us in the area.

Next it was time for some lunch before our meeting.  There were several venues open, but we opted for the Park Cafe in Central Park because it is one of our favorites on Oasis-class ships.   The Royal Kummelweck is their signature beef sandwich.  You can order it with your choice(s) of au jus, mustard, and horseradish.

We also added a made to order salad.  Other sandwiches, soups, and dessert items were also available.  This is an included food venue.

NOTE:  Cruise lines do an excellent job coordinating large groups like ours.  We have over 1100 people attending  our #2019DareConference.   Consider making your next corporate meeting at sea.  We can help you plan any size event.  For large groups you may even have your own Cruise Directory, like we did.

Continue with our Choose Cruise Month mini-series of articles or take a detour by clicking the following banner to explore Symphony of the Seas and our National Conference cruise.

 

National Plan A Cruise Month Promotions 

Cruise lines are offering special promotions and pricing on popular cruises to encourage consumers to plan their next cruise vacation now. We'll be featuring promotions on our website and social media.

Choose Cruise Month (click for mini-series)

Follow Us On

        

Sign-up for Exclusive Email Offers


Where have you explored? 

Gather your travel and food pics and join us every Wednesday night for the latest installment of #FoodTravelChat