The more we cruise, the more we learn about things to do and not do. One “thing” we always try to do is be in our departure city at least 24 hours ahead of time, and have at least 24 hours in our arrival city before going on to wherever.
We think it’s a small price to pay — a night in a hotel at either end — to avoid the expense that can come with late arrivals. If you’re late flying into (or driving into) the port city where the ship is, no matter what the reason, and it leaves without you there is almost certain to be no recourse. Tough for you. Similarly, if you’re ship is delayed at sea (also for whatever reason) and you miss a flight home, too bad.
It’s always there in the fine print.
There is another precaution you can take — travel insurance. That can be a fine-print issue, too, because you know what insurance can be like when there’s a claim.
We like our plan better. If nothing else, it’s usually more fun.