Don’t miss the boat!

I had no idea until recently that there is a spectator sport called ‘Pier Running’

It is a source of amusement for passengers in Balcony cabins or Suites facing the port watching for any latecomers back to the ship

The internet is full of rather cruel videos of people running along the dock as the ship is often just sailing away

Don’t get caught out as the ship will not wait for you and will not turn back for you so make sure you take precautions when going ashore especially if you are not taking a ships own shore excursion, these may be common sense but it’s worth remembering!

Triple-check the time you are required back on board usually 30 minutes BEFORE official departure and make sure your watch is set to local time – even set it 10 minutes fast

Make sure you take your passports with you so if you do miss the ship you will be able to get to the next port of call

Make sure you have a credit card so if you need to make arrangements to get back to the ship you can pay for it

Take your medication with you

If you have a mobile phone make sure it is fully charged and that it is possible to make international calls, it’s worth saving the ship contact details in your phone

Always take the ship’s daily newsletter when going into port. This contains the contact details for the ship and the local port authority. If you get delayed, you can notify someone and hope they’ll help you

Make sure you are wearing flat shoes so if you need to get back fast you can run like the wind!

So with these tips there is no excuse for you to be the next internet sensation, however if you have been caught out before and nearly or actually have missed the ship I would love to hear to unfortunate stories!!