Flight delays are a common worry when flying to join a cruise. This guide explains what a transfer company can and cannot do, and what steps protect your sailing.
Flight monitoring
We monitor your live flight using your flight number, so if you land later than scheduled your collection is adjusted to the new arrival time where possible. This is why supplying the correct flight number is essential — without it we cannot track the live arrival.
Supplying the correct flight number
When you book, give us your airline and the exact flight number, including any suffix. A wrong or partial flight number means we cannot monitor the flight accurately.
Communication
If you learn of a delay before you travel, let us know as soon as possible. The earlier we know, the more we can do to adjust the collection. On the day, keep your phone accessible in case your driver needs to contact you.
Cruise departure risks
A transfer company cannot make a ship wait. If a delay risks missing your sailing, the priority is to contact your cruise line. Cruise lines can advise on late arrival procedures, but they will not always hold a ship. Plan your flights with a sensible margin where you can.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance that covers missed cruise departure is advisable. Check your policy before you travel so you understand what is covered if a flight delay affects your sailing.
Contacting the cruise line when necessary
If a delay is significant, contact your cruise line directly. They can tell you whether late embarkation is possible and at which port. Keep your cruise booking reference to hand.
Limits of what a transfer company can control
A transfer company can monitor your flight and adjust collection, but cannot control:
- Airline delays or cancellations
- Air traffic control decisions
- Port and customs procedures
- Your ship's sailing time
See our guide on Heathrow to Southampton cruise transfers for how flight monitoring works in practice.
Request your private Heathrow to Southampton cruise transfer for a fixed quote.
Key takeaways
- Supply the correct flight number so we can monitor your live arrival
- Tell us about delays as early as possible
- A transfer company cannot make a ship wait — contact your cruise line
- Travel insurance that covers missed departure is advisable
- We can adjust collection, but cannot control airlines or port procedures
