In port you can book an excursion on board or head off by yourself. Both have their place; it depends on the port, the time in port and how you like to travel.
Ship excursion
Pros: Fully organised, and if a ship's excursion runs late, the ship usually waits.
Cons: Usually more expensive, large groups, fixed schedule.
On your own
Pros: Cheaper, flexible, your own pace.
Cons: Getting back on time is your responsibility. The ship will sail without you.
The middle way: tours with fixed timings
Independent providers offer tours designed for cruise passengers, with terminal pick-up and fixed return times. Many can be cancelled free of charge up to 24 hours ahead. See shore excursions on GetYourGuide*
Be back on time
- Note the “all aboard” time, not the departure time
- Check ship time against local time, especially across time zones
- Allow at least an hour of buffer
- Carry your cruise card, ID and the port agent's emergency number
- Phone charged, offline map saved
Start with our Hamburg port guide.
* Affiliate link: we may earn a commission if you book. The price stays the same for you.