Cruise passengers are currently debating a contentious topic: whether bringing luggage into crowded ship elevators is a breach of etiquette, especially during busy disembarkation mornings. Passengers often rely on these elevators to navigate between decks, but many are questioning the practicality of squeezing suitcases into crowded spaces.
Etiquette expert Diane Gottsman suggests that while passengers can bring their luggage into elevators, they should be considerate of the limited available space. She advises minimizing suitcases and leaving larger bags outside the cabin the night before for pickup by the crew. Gottsman emphasizes planning and being mindful of others, especially those with mobility issues.
Carnival Cruise Line’s policy also indicates that checked baggage service ends two hours before sailing, placing the onus of luggage handling on late-arriving guests.
The debate has gained traction on social media, with some passengers defending the use of elevators as essential for managing luggage across multiple decks. Others maintain that utilizing the ship’s luggage service can ease departure for everyone.
Overall, cruise industry experts anticipate a record-breaking year for ocean travel, urging passengers to plan ahead on busy sailing days to enhance their experience.
