Arriving at a port is similar to arriving at any other departure point for a vacation where there are parking, luggage, security and timing issues to contend with whilst checking in. With around 2000 passengers arriving to board the ship within a space of just 3 hours, the port is invariably crowded and there are long queues. The key to boarding a cruise ship effectively is to be prepared to follow instructions; read posted guidelines, and to be patient.

When arriving at the port by car, passengers will be required to park their car first and then bring their luggage to the security check point by hand. To facilitate the smooth processing of your luggage always securely attach the pre-issued baggage tags to your luggage prior to arriving at the port (these are supplied with your cruise ticket). The tags are specific to your cabin assignment and assist the porters in delivering your luggage to your cabin.

Porters are on hand at the port to assist with luggage, however it must be noted that the porters are not cruise line employees and the cruise line is not responsible for any mishandling or misdirection of the luggage. Should you find that your bags have been damaged in any way it is important to report it to the ship staff and to have them inspect the damage and complete a report (which will be required should you later wish to file a claim with the insurance).

For your own comfort and convenience, we recommend that each guest take no more than one suitcase and one hand baggage. These must be able to fit comfortably in your cabin where space is at a premium.

Do not pack any items that are not permitted to be carried on board as this requires customs and security officials to open the bags are remove the items in your presence - and the presence of your fellow travelers queuing behind you! This causes lengthy delays in processing the bags and other passengers waiting behind you.  Personal supplies of alcohol, in particular, are not permitted to be carried on board and will be confiscated, so avoid embarrassment and delays and  leave these at home.

Both Durban and Cape Town ports are gun-free zones. Firearms are not permitted onto port premises.

Upon entering the cruise terminal passengers will be required to check in to verify their arrival. Having the proper documentation available will expedite the process and make check in a smooth and hassle free experience. Worth considering is a Priority Boarding Pass, which is available for purchase at the time of making your cruise booking, (contact the Starlight office where you booking was made for more information on this option). It provides dedicated staff / registration areas to assist passengers through the formalities with the minimum of queuing.

All cruise passengers need to carry the appropriate documentation for security and verification purposes. Passports; (ID and Original Birth Certificates for children on Cruises to Nowhere); and the cruise tickets are required. Do not pack this documentation into your luggage or bury it inside a carry-on bag- it will be checked multiple times and you should keep it available until you have been issued your ship's ID card.

Receiving your luggage onboard requires a little patience on your part as it's a big undertaking to load and distribute as many as 3000 bags and sometimes more. Should your bags not have been delivered to your cabin within 3 hours after sailing, contact guest relations for assistance in tracking them down. It is recommended that you pack a change of clothes (ie: swimming costumes; shorts etc) into a carry on so that you're able to get changed into your more casual wear whilst waiting for your luggage to be delivered to your cabin.

Starlight Cruises wishes you Happy Cruising and Bon Voyage!