What Are the Top 5 Things to Know About Cruise Ship Tenders?

Cruise ship tenders are an important part of the cruise experience, especially when a ship can't dock at a port. Knowing how tendering works can help make your trip easier and more fun. Here are the top 5 things to know about cruise ship tenders.

1. What is Tendering?

What Does Tendering Mean?

Tendering is when smaller boats, called tenders, are used to take passengers from a cruise ship anchored offshore to a port. This happens when large ships can't dock because of shallow water or small port facilities. Some popular tender ports include Cabo San Lucas, Grand Cayman, and Santorini, many cruise ship private islands!

Why is Tendering Useful?

Tendering lets cruise ships visit amazing places they couldn’t reach otherwise. It also helps protect fragile marine areas by keeping big ships away from sensitive ecosystems.

2. How Does the Tender Process Work?

Getting Ready for Tendering

When a ship arrives at a tender port, smaller tender boats are available for passengers to use to get to shore.  These tenders, are no different than a small ferry. Passengers usually board these smaller boats from special platforms on the lower decks of the ship.

Organizing Passengers

Cruise lines often use a ticket system to manage tendering. Passengers can get tickets while onboard the cruise ship, and boarding is done in groups based on boarding time. People with pre-booked excursions or priority status usually board first to keep things running smoothly.

3. Who Gets Priority?

Passengers with Special Access

Some passengers get priority for tendering, including:

• People who booked excursions through the cruise line.

• Guests staying in suites or VIP accommodations.

• Members of the cruise line’s loyalty program.

Why Priority Matters

Priority boarding makes it easier for passengers with tours or tight schedules to get off the ship quickly, saving time and avoiding delays.  It is always best to check if your excursion you booked with the cruise line will allow for priority tendering.

4. Things Passengers Should Know

Be Patient

Tendering gives access to beautiful ports, but it can take time. Long lines and waiting are common, especially during busy hours. Planning to disembark at less crowded times can make the experience more pleasant.  Please be kind to your fellow passengers for a smooth tendering experience.

Accessibility Issues

Tendering might be tricky for people with mobility challenges. The smaller boats can be unsteady because of waves. Cruise lines often offer help, but it’s a good idea to check with the staff if you’re concerned or unsure if you or someone in your party will be able to tender safely.

5. Weather and Safety

How Weather Affects Tendering

Weather can have a big impact on tendering. If the seas are too rough, cruise lines may cancel tendering to keep everyone safe. This could mean skipping a port stop.  In some of these cases, the captain may choose to reroute to a different port or opt for an additional sea day for fun activities with the cruise line staff.

Safety First

Safety is always the most important thing during tendering. Cruise lines have strict rules to make sure the process is secure and well-organized. Listen to announcements and updates from the crew to stay informed.

Remember

Understanding how cruise ship tenders work can help you prepare for you fun day at shore. When planning excursions, make sure you give yourself enough time to make it from the cruise ship to the shore.  For a detailed review of each cruise line's tendering process, check for information on their website or your travel advisor. Working with a travel advisor can also be a great way to choose ports of call that match your preferences and travel style.  If you would like help planning your next cruise, please reach out to Michael Veltri with Sail Away Escapes.