Symphony of the Seas "Door Opening Delay"

[Kendall James-Vargas]

Some guests posted in panic as RCL's Symphony of the Seas opened its doors to disembark guests later than expected. Symphony of the Seas arrived to Miami November 10, 2024 at 6:30am, but guests were unable to get off the ship until about 7:30am (an hour later than initially planned). This hour delay had guests missing flights, but is it really RCL and Boarder Patrols fault? If one hour will cause you to miss your flight, I think your flight arrangements weren't properly planned for. What do you think?

[FJB]

I believe the recommendation from the cruiselines porting in Port Everglades or Miami is no flights before 11am of disembarkation day.  

[Seaawgs]

These certainly could not have been veteran cruisers. Cruise lines only offer estimated docking times. If the past 2 years have taught us anything, nothing is for certain. I flew in and out of Miami for 14 years. If you don't have airline status or TSA pre check, it can take a long time to reach your gate.

[3Sisters]

@FJB That's a good tip! I didn't realize that was the recommendation for cruises out of Port Miami. I typically prefer afternoon flights because you can't ever be too certain as @Seaawgs mentioned. I have been delayed before, and sometimes there is an accident on the road. It's really better to always give yourself extra travel time! TSA pre-check is super helpful too. It's worth the investment! I recommend getting pre-check during a Black Friday special. I did that a few years back and it was a great rate!