Checking in Online

[Teal]

I'm wondering if we can check in online at the RCI website before we receive our documents from our travel agent?

[Dave]

Not only can you check in on-line, you need to do it. All you need is your reservation number and the cruise date. Other than the luggage tags, the paper docs from your agent are a waste of time. I don't know why RCI still issues paper docs. You can get luggage tags at the pier.

Check in on-line and you will be able to print your Set Sail Pass. This piece of paper, your passports, and your credit card (for the shipboard account) is all you will need at the pier.

[Teal]

Yes, I know we need to do it, but is it ok to check in this early? About 3 months away?
Thanks Dave.

[Dave]

is it ok to check in this early?

Sure. Earlier the better. I've completed on-line check in when I still had almost a year before the cruise. I am checked in for my June cruise on the Grandeur. You can always go in and modify something if you need to. The only stipulation RCI has is that it needs to be done at least 3 days before the cruise.

[idreamofcrusing]

I'm a bit nervous after reading this. We were told that we didn't need a passport just a birth certificate and a driver's license. We are leaving from Fort Lauderdale and going to the caribbean. Help!

[Dave]

It depends on when your cruise departs, and if it is considered "closed loop". Generally, on or after June 1st a passport (or passport card) is required. However, there is apparently an exception which you can see here . I got a bit annoyed with this topic last week since I think people need to stop procrastinating and get a passport.

Bear in mind that even right now you can't fly back to the U.S. without a passport. So if you have to leave your cruise for some reason you will be facing a problem trying to get home.

[poormom]

Just get one. Foget the rules of when you HAVE to have one and just get one!
If you have time, it only takes a few weeks. If not you'll pay for expedited.
If you have an emergency and need to fly back you will want one!
Dave, just breathe and pretend you never read this thread.

[Dave]

Dave, just breathe and pretend you never read this thread.

Well, I felt bad about it after I blew up last week. It wasn't the member's fault. But after you see "the passport question" a hundred or so times it kind of wears you out.

Another issue is the cruise lines may simply say "you can't cruise with us without a passport", regardless of the government rules. When you have one federal agency saying one thing, and another saying something different, you err on the side of caution and go the conservative route.

[lisareneeo]

What specific information do you need when checking in on line?
Your reservation number?
A credit card which will be used for on board charges?
Passport info?
I would like to know everything I need before I start the process.
Thanks

[Dave]

Look here to see the things you will need to complete on-line check in.