docking times

[scubatide]

My husband and I are taking our first cruise on Splendour to Greece on September 3rd. I have lots of questions. I have a friend who will be meeting us in Athens. The ship is docking at 8 am. I read somewhere that you can not leave the ship for 2 hours after it docks. Is this time accurate? I don't want our friend to be waiting long. Also are the ports close to towns? We sometimes like to explore on our own.

[Oggy Boy]

It all depends on how long it takes for Immigration to clear the ship's arrival. If the ship had called on another Greek port directly prior to the call on Athens, then it shouldn't take too long to clear. On an average, 30 minutes is usualy the standard time. The port for Athens is actually in neighboring Pireaus and is easily visited from Athens, however traffic is horrendous.

Check out www.EuropePortReviews.com for detailed information on how to do each port on your own with ease and on a budget.

Have a great cruise!

Tom

[scubatide]

Thank you, Tom. What a great website. I have read and enjoyed several of your reviews.

[CruiseFan_85]

Usually if the port is going to take awhile to process everything, then the shup will arrive at seven or earlier in the morning so by the time most people want to get off, they can.

[Sonny V]

Your travel agent should be able to give you the information you're looking for. Another suggestion is to call Royal Caribbean. Have your booking number handy if you do.

[scubatide]

Thanks for the suggestions. My travel agent is not very reliable. I called RCL and they said I would have to talk to my travel agent! I figured ya'll would have better info anyway. I really enjoy this site. I hope I love cruising as much as all ya'll do!