Check if this route is safe for your all-aboard time
Check your port's return timing and risk level — free, instant.
Ship-safe return system
A 6-step system used by independent cruisers to guarantee they make it back before all-aboard — at every port, in every season.
Know your all-aboard time — not departure time
All-aboard time is posted at your cabin and the gangway. Departure is typically 30 minutes after all-aboard. You must be back before all-aboard.
Calculate your buffer (90 minutes minimum)
Work backwards: All-Aboard − 90 min = latest you should arrive at the port terminal. For tender ports, subtract another 30–40 minutes.
Know your return transport before you leave
Before disembarking: check taxi cost to port, nearest train/bus stop, and last reliable departure time back. Save the port address offline.
Set a physical departure alarm from your furthest point
Not from the ship. From wherever you plan to be furthest from the port. Build travel time + buffer into this alarm.
Have the taxi fallback route pre-researched
If public transport fails, you need to know the taxi cost and rough journey time to the port. In most Mediterranean ports this is €15–50.
Return early if anything feels uncertain
Weather delays, transport strikes, medical emergencies. If you feel the timeline is tight — leave now. Sights can be seen next time. The ship waits for no one.
Build your your port plan with return-planning guidance
Enter your all-aboard time. Get transport estimates, return-planning guidance, and local costs.
Instant Port Check
FreeRisk level & return time — in 15 seconds
Free personalized report
Your Port Ship-Safe Briefing
Complete operational briefing for your port: exact transport, leave-by times, taxi fallback, and 90-minute buffer breakdown.
Instant delivery · No spam · Unsubscribe anytime
Premium = Operational Protection
Protect your return timing
Live return-window monitoring with alerts when your buffer is at risk.
Protect your itinerary from transport delays
48-hour port condition alerts — tender risk, crowd levels, transport disruptions.
Protect your all-aboard buffer
Port-day alerts sent to your phone when conditions change before your visit.
What time should I return to the cruise ship?
Arrive at the port terminal (not just in port town) at least 90 minutes before all-aboard. For tender ports, add 30–45 minutes for the tender queue. Factor in travel time from your furthest point.
What if I am running late for the cruise ship?
Call the ship (number in your cruise card or app) immediately. Take a taxi directly to the port — do not wait for public transport. If you miss the ship, you will need to self-fund travel to the next port.
Does the cruise ship wait if you are late?
No. Cruise ships operate on strict port scheduling and will depart at the published time. All-aboard time is the absolute deadline. Ships regularly leave with passengers still on the dock.
Get your free Ship-Safe Timing Guide
Know exactly when to leave each port, which ports need a 30-min extra buffer, and how to build your safe return timeline.
Download Ship-Safe GuideRelated tools & guides
Will I make it back? — Return Time Calculator
Cruise Port Missed-Ship Risk Rankings
Tender Delay Predictor
Ship-Safe Port Planning Guide
Check if this route is safe for your all-aboard time
Get your personalised ship-safe timing check — free in 30 seconds.
Build your your port plan with return-planning guidance
Enter your all-aboard time. Get transport estimates, return-planning guidance, and local costs.
We use essential cookies. Analytics and marketing only if you allow them. Privacy policy