John Jay High School Alumni Reunion Cruise

1. Self-Assist Early Departure (Expedited Option)

• Process: Guests keep all luggage in their stateroom the night before and carry it off the ship themselves. Luggage tags are not required.
• Timing: Typically begins early, around 7:00 AM - 7:15 AM. Guests proceed directly to the gangway with bags and SeaPass card.
• Benefits: Generally the fastest way to debark, ideal for early flights, those managing their own bags, or needing quick access to offsite parking shuttles.
• Considerations: Guests must be able to carry or roll all luggage independently (no wheelchair assistance). Elevators can be crowded; lower deck or stair use can be advantageous.

2. Regular Departure

• Process: The night before, guests place name tags on bags and leave them outside their stateroom door by a specified time. The cruise line handles luggage delivery to a designated baggage claim area in the terminal. Keep essential items (flight tickets, passports, valuables) in hand luggage. A video overview of the process is usually shown on stateroom television.
• Timing: Guests are assigned a specific departure time, often correlated with a luggage tag color. Guests can enjoy breakfast or relax until their number is called.
• Benefits: Convenient for those who prefer not to manage luggage or are not in a rush.
• Considerations: Debarkation times are staggered. The overall process, including customs and immigration, can take 2 to 4 hours from the start of disembarkation to exiting the terminal.

Tips for Expedited Debarkation

• Choose Self-Assist: If physically able, this is the most effective way to expedite exit.
• Have Documents Ready: Keep your SeaPass card, passport (or other valid ID), and any completed customs forms easily accessible.
• Leverage Passport for Customs: At Galveston, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) often uses facial recognition technology for passport holders, significantly speeding up the customs process. Travelers using a birth certificate and photo ID may have a separate, potentially longer, line for manual processing.
• Early Arrival at Terminal: For offsite parking shuttles, self-disembarking early can help avoid long waits.

Customs & Immigration Process at Galveston

Pre-Cruise Checklist

• Verify Documentation: Double-check that all passports or alternative IDs are valid and match booking names.
• Finalize Payments: Ensure final payment is made by July 11, 2026.
• Special Needs Requests: If a CPAP extension cord or distilled water is needed, submit a request to Royal Caribbean's Special Needs department in advance.
• Review Prohibited Items: Familiarize yourself with Royal Caribbean's prohibited items list.
• Consider Travel Insurance: Recommended due to hurricane season in October.
• Enroll in STEP: For U.S. citizens, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.

Onboard Experience

• Familiarize yourself with the ship's layout, amenities, and dining options.
• Attend the group's confirmed 5:30 PM dining time.
• Stay informed by checking the Royal Caribbean app or daily planner.

Cozumel Exploration

• Remain mindful of local customs and safety advisories regarding petty crime and scams.
• Consider using Mexican Pesos for transactions for better value and to support the local economy.
• Be aware of the new government-imposed $42 Mexican port fee.
• For shore excursions, stick to reputable tour operators and well-trafficked tourist areas.

Debarkation Day

• Decide on your preferred debarkation method (Self-Assist or Regular Departure) in advance and prepare luggage accordingly.
• Have all necessary travel documents (SeaPass card, passport/ID) readily accessible for customs.