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Cruising comes with its own vocabulary, and a lot of first-timer confusion is really just unfamiliarity with the terms. This glossary groups the most common cruise terms by theme so you can get comfortable with the language before you ever step onboard.
Getting On and Off the Ship
Embarkation refers to boarding the ship at the start of your cruise. Disembarkation is the reverse process at the end. All-aboard time is the deadline by which every passenger must be back onboard before the ship departs a port.
Getting Around During the Cruise
A tender is a smaller boat used to ferry passengers between the ship and shore where the ship can't dock directly. A port of call is any destination the ship stops at. A sea day is a day sailing without a port stop. Sail-away is the ship's departure from a port.
Safety and Procedure
A muster drill is a mandatory safety briefing where passengers learn what to do in an emergency. Requirements and formats vary by cruise line and have evolved over time, so check your specific line's current process.
Money and Extras
Gratuities refer to the daily service charge most cruise lines add to your onboard account to cover crew service. A shore excursion is an organized activity or tour at a port of call.
Cabins and Onboard Spaces
Many cruise lines offer a premium suite enclave — a separate tier of accommodations with its own private amenities and lounges. A formal night is an evening when cruise lines traditionally encourage dressier attire, though expectations vary by line.
Terminology and specific procedures can vary by cruise line, so use this as a general reference and confirm exact policies with your cruise line before sailing.
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