When should I arrive before embarkation?

Always arrive at least one full day before embarkation. Flight delays + missed boat = lost trip. For long-haul destinations, two days is safer.

The cardinal rule of liveaboard travel: arrive at least one full day before embarkation. Flight delays, lost luggage, weather diversions and customs surprises can all cost you the boat — and unlike a hotel, the boat won't wait. If you miss embarkation, the operator does not refund you and travel insurance becomes your only recourse.

For mainstream destinations with reliable connections (Maldives, Egypt, Bahamas, Cayman, Mexico), one night before is the bare minimum. We recommend an early-morning arrival the day before so you have a full day buffer for delays.

For long-haul or remote destinations (Galápagos, Cocos, Socorro, Indonesia's eastern islands, Antarctic gateways), two nights before is the smart standard. These trips often involve 2-3 connecting flights and a domestic transfer to a port town. Build in slack.

Use the pre-trip night to: get a real night's sleep after the long flight, do a final equipment check, get any last-minute supplies (sunscreen, seasickness meds, electronics adapters), confirm your transfer time with the operator, and explore the port town if you have energy.

Most operators offer airport pickup and a partner hotel rate for the pre-trip night. We arrange this when you book and add it to your confirmation. Embarkation is typically 4-5pm with the welcome briefing and dinner on board, and the boat sails at sunset or overnight to the first dive site.