Lost so far in the discussion is the fact that cruise ships are often on a pretty tight schedule getting from one port of call to another, scheduled docking times and fees, etc., and delays can mean not only lost time but added expenses for the line. RCCL has provisions (as I assume do most if not all of the other cruise lines) for passengers delayed through no fault of their own when using RCCL - arranged transportation. This, from their web page:
Guests who miss their cruise due to travel delays can contact the Emergency Travel Team (ETT) to discuss their options going forward. In specific situations, when the guest has the proper documentation, it is possible to join the cruise at the next port of call, but all options must be discussed with ETT.
If you miss the departure of your trip due to carrier-caused delays or other covered reasons, Royal Caribbean Travel Protection Program package of benefits reimburses you for additional accommodations, meals and "catch-up" transportation expenses. Otherwise, you are responsible for any expense incurred to meet the ship at its next port of call. For this reason, many guests find it is easiest to arrive a day prior to sailing and stay in a hotel the night before to avoid any possible delays.
In other words, if you pay for some part of your travel through RCCL and a delay causes you to miss your departure (no ship will wait forever) and depending on the circumstances they'll get you to the next port of call where you can meet the ship.
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