Cruise secrets: Never pack this item when boarding the ship – or risk not being allowed on

Travellers heading on a cruise should also make sure to doing something else to ensure a smooth boarding process.

According to Cruise Critic editor Erica Silverstein, “arriving at your homeport during the tail end of the embarkation window,” is the best way to board in the morning.

While many people show up extra early before the cruise even opens, the queues are not worth the hassle.

Instead, she recommends arriving late or even “half an hour to an hour before embarkation ends” is the best time to board.

An hour may be missed onboard but it will also prevent waiting in long queues for hours.