Don't Let It Spoil Your Cruise: Lost Luggage

With an increasing number of suitcases being mishandled by the airlines, sooner or later every cruise traveler is bound to experience a sinking feeling. Upon arrival at your embarkation port's airport, the luggage carousel spits out bags at a brisk clip until all are spinning into their owners' grasps... except yours. What to do?

First, don't panic. It's possible your suitcases simply didn't make it to your flight and will arrive later in the day. Your initial move is to file a report with the airline. Even if you checked your luggage with one airline and connected to another, the report should be with the airline you arrived on. The airline's agent may be able to use the tracking number to determine its location. If the next flight from the airport where you checked luggage (for non-stop), or an interim airport (if you made a connection) is arriving soon, my suggestion is to wait at the airport if you have time. Sure, it's a hassle, but if you flew to your cruise embarkation port city a day early, it's worth the wait of an hour or so to be reunited with your luggage, especially if it's too early to check into your hotel.

Unfortunately for European cruisers, the summer of 2007 may go down in history as The Summer of Lost Luggage. Many passengers are reporting missing or delayed suitcases, with airports in London and Rome being particular culprits. From personal observation, you might want to avoid flying on British Airways, which has been mishandling luggage for years. Even if your luggage doesn't show up before you embark on your ship, with any luck it may find its way to you during a port call during the cruise. Make your predicament known to the staff at the Purser's Desk as soon as possible after boarding and request their assistance.

What to do in the meantime? Be proactive and pack a change of clothing, or at least fresh undergarments, in your carry-on. Never put medicine or anything you can't live without in checked luggage. Ask the airline representative if you are entitled to reimbursement for items you must purchase until your luggage arrives. Keep receipts for the airline or your insurance company--many travel insurance policies cover lost and/or delayed luggage. Purchase what you need, either in the ship's boutique or in ports. In some instances, the cruise line may offer you an allowance for replacement garments from the shops on board; some will even lend formal attire from the stock they have on board.

Just don't depend on the airlines during The Summer of Lost Luggage.