What is a Tender Port? The Ultimate Guide

Cruising is all about smooth sailing, but sometimes, your massive cruise ship can’t dock at the pier.

That’s where tender ports come in!

Instead of walking off the ship, you’ll hop on a smaller boat—called a tender—to reach shore. It’s a different kind of adventure, and this guide will break it all down for you.

If you’re wondering how tendering works, whether you should book an excursion, or how to make the process easier, we’ve got you covered.

Table of Contents

Understanding What a Tender Port Is

A tender port is a cruise destination where ships are unable to dock directly at a pier.

Instead of walking off the ship onto solid ground, passengers must take a smaller boat—known as a tender—to reach the shore.

These tender boats can be the ship’s own lifeboats or local vessels provided by the port.

The process is necessary when docking is not feasible due to various factors, making tendering an essential part of cruising.

Despite requiring extra steps, tender ports offer access to some of the most stunning and less commercialized destinations in the world.

Whether it’s a remote island with pristine beaches or a charming coastal town with limited infrastructure, tendering allows cruise passengers to explore places that large ships otherwise couldn’t reach.

Why Do Cruise Ships Use Tender Ports?

Cruise ships rely on tender ports for several reasons, all of which impact where and how they can dock:

Depth Limitations – Many ports are located in shallow waters, making it impossible for massive cruise ships to approach without running aground. In such cases, tendering is the only way to transport passengers to and from shore safely.
Environmental Restrictions – Some destinations, like the Great Barrier Reef or private islands, enforce strict regulations to protect marine life and coral reefs. Building a dock could cause damage to the environment, so these locations rely on tender boats instead.
Port Size and Infrastructure – Small towns, islands, and remote locations often lack the infrastructure needed to accommodate large cruise ships. Since constructing a large port is expensive and potentially disruptive, using tenders is the best solution.
Crowded Harbors – Some ports, such as Cozumel or Venice, have limited docking space. If all berths are occupied, additional cruise ships must anchor offshore and tender passengers in.

Although tendering requires extra time and planning, it provides an exciting and scenic arrival experience, allowing travelers to take in breathtaking views of their ship and surroundings from a smaller boat.

How Tendering Works

When a cruise ship arrives at a tender port, the process of getting passengers from ship to shore begins.

Tendering might seem complicated, but it is a well-organized system designed for efficiency and safety.

The Tendering Process Step-by-Step

Ship Anchors Offshore – Instead of docking at a pier, the ship remains anchored a short distance from land. The distance can vary depending on water depth, harbor size, and local regulations.
Tender Boats Prepare – The ship’s own lifeboats or local tender boats are readied for passenger transport. These vessels usually hold anywhere from 50 to 100 people and are equipped with safety features like life jackets and handrails.
Ticket System for Tenders – To manage the flow of passengers, many cruise lines use a ticket or group number system. Passengers with pre-booked excursions often get priority, while others must wait for their assigned group to be called.
Boarding the Tender Boat – Passengers step onto the tender boat via a gangway or small platform. Crew members assist to ensure safe boarding, especially when the sea is choppy.
Short Ride to Shore – The tender ride typically takes 5 to 15 minutes, though it can be longer depending on distance, sea conditions, and harbor traffic. The experience can be quite scenic, offering panoramic views of the cruise ship and coastline.
Disembark and Explore – Upon reaching land, passengers step off the tender boat onto a small pier or dock. From here, they can embark on shore excursions, visit local markets, or simply explore the area at their leisure.

Tendering is generally a smooth and well-coordinated process, but delays can occur due to weather conditions, sea swells, or high passenger volume.

Being patient and planning ahead can help make the experience more enjoyable.

Cruise Line-Specific Tender Port Protocols

Different cruise lines have their own procedures for handling tender ports, from how they distribute tender tickets to who gets priority boarding.

Below is a breakdown of how the top 20 major cruise lines manage the tendering process, helping you prepare for your next voyage.

Please visit the cruise line’s website for most up-to-date information

Royal Caribbean International

Tender Ticket System: Yes, available at Guest Services or via the Royal Caribbean app.
Priority Boarding: Suite guests, Pinnacle Club members, and those on Royal Caribbean shore excursions get priority.
Tender Process: Tenders typically run every 15-30 minutes, with an early-morning rush.

Carnival Cruise Line

Tender Ticket System: No pre-ticketing; passengers wait in designated areas until their group is called.
Priority Boarding: Platinum & Diamond loyalty members, Faster to the Fun (FTTF) guests, and Carnival excursions get early access.
Tender Process: Large Carnival ships often use their own lifeboats as tenders, offering continuous service.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

Tender Ticket System: Required for general passengers; issued on a first-come, first-served basis.
Priority Boarding: Suite & Haven guests, Latitude elite members, and those with shore excursions.
Tender Process: Usually local tenders are used instead of ship lifeboats. The tender process is efficient but may involve wait times during peak hours.

MSC Cruises

Tender Ticket System: Yes, available at Guest Services or via the MSC app.
Priority Boarding: MSC Yacht Club members, high-tier Voyagers Club members, and shore excursion guests.
Tender Process: Boarding is done in assigned groups, and announcements are made over the PA system.

Princess Cruises

Tender Ticket System: Available at the Guest Services desk or via the onboard app.
Priority Boarding: Suite guests, Platinum & Elite Captain’s Circle members, and booked shore excursion guests.
Tender Process: Ship’s lifeboats are commonly used as tenders, with comfortable boarding areas.

Holland America Line

Tender Ticket System: Available at Guest Services and self-service kiosks.
Priority Boarding: Suite guests, 4-Star & 5-Star Mariners, and those with HAL shore excursions.
Tender Process: Tenders are well-organized and typically depart every 10-15 minutes.

Celebrity Cruises

Tender Ticket System: Yes, guests must obtain a boarding pass.
Priority Boarding: Suite Class, Elite & Elite Plus Captain’s Club members, and excursion participants.
Tender Process: Celebrity uses luxury-style tenders with cushioned seats and shaded areas.

Disney Cruise Line

Tender Ticket System: No tickets; open boarding in groups.
Priority Boarding: Concierge guests, Platinum Castaway Club members, and families with young children may get priority.
Tender Process: Often uses large, covered tenders for a more comfortable ride.

Virgin Voyages

Tender Ticket System: No need for tickets; guests can join a virtual queue through the Virgin Voyages app.
Priority Boarding: RockStar Suite guests and guests booked on shore experiences.
Tender Process: Local luxury boats are used, offering a stylish arrival experience.

Cunard Line

Tender Ticket System: Yes, guests must collect a boarding pass.
Priority Boarding: Queens & Princess Grill Suite guests, World Club members, and shore excursion guests.
Tender Process: Classic wooden tenders often used for a more elegant experience.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Tender Ticket System: No tickets required. Open boarding based on guest readiness.
Priority Boarding: Not necessary; Seabourn ships are smaller, making tendering quick for all guests.
Tender Process: Luxury tenders with extra seating and covered areas for comfort.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Tender Ticket System: No ticketing; tenders operate continuously.
Priority Boarding: All guests enjoy VIP treatment with open tender access.
Tender Process: Upscale tender boats offer a smooth, stress-free ride to shore.

Oceania Cruises

Tender Ticket System: Available for general boarding.
Priority Boarding: Suite guests and Oceania shore excursion participants.
Tender Process: Limited passenger numbers per tender ensure a relaxed experience.

Azamara

Tender Ticket System: No tickets required.
Priority Boarding: Suite guests and loyalty members get first access.
Tender Process: Smaller ship size means fewer passengers and a quicker tender experience.

Silversea Cruises

Tender Ticket System: No ticketing required.
Priority Boarding: All guests can board freely, but Silver Suite guests may receive early access.
Tender Process: High-end tenders with cushioned seats and limited occupancy for an exclusive feel.

Crystal Cruises

Tender Ticket System: No pre-ticketing required.
Priority Boarding: VIP guests and Penthouse-level suites receive priority.
Tender Process: Tenders run frequently with personal assistance for guests.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Tender Ticket System: No pre-ticketing required.
Priority Boarding: Suite guests and Viking shore excursion guests may board first.
Tender Process: Viking’s ships are small, making tendering efficient and quick.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Tender Ticket System: No tickets required; open boarding.
Priority Boarding: All guests receive the same high-end service.
Tender Process: Ultra-luxury tenders with plush seating and direct boarding assistance.

P&O Cruises

Tender Ticket System: Tickets available at Guest Services.
Priority Boarding: Suite guests and Peninsular Club members.
Tender Process: Local boats are used, and guests are informed via announcements.

Costa Cruises

Tender Ticket System: Required for general passengers.
Priority Boarding: Costa Club elite members and shore excursion participants.
Tender Process: Costa’s tenders operate in multiple languages for international guests.

Pros and Cons of Tender Ports

Tender ports offer unique experiences, but they also come with some challenges.

Pros of Tender Ports

Access to Exclusive Destinations – Many breathtaking islands and small towns rely on tendering.
Less Commercialized Atmosphere – Many tender ports are remote, giving you a more authentic experience.
Scenic Arrival – The tender ride provides stunning views of the ship and surroundings.

Cons of Tender Ports

Potentially Long Wait Times – Boarding a tender can take time, especially for large ships.
Weather Can Impact Plans – Rough seas may cause cancellations or delays.
Mobility Challenges – Passengers with mobility issues may find tender boats difficult to board.

Understanding these pros and cons helps set realistic expectations for your cruise experience.

Popular Cruise Destinations with Tender Ports

Many of the world’s most beautiful cruise destinations use tender ports.

Caribbean Tender Ports

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands – Stunning beaches and famous for Stingray City.
Belize City, Belize – A gateway to Mayan ruins and lush rainforests.

European Tender Ports

Santorini, Greece – Famous for its breathtaking cliffside views and blue-domed churches.
Villefranche-sur-Mer, France – A picturesque port near Nice and Monaco.
Dubrovnik, Croatia – A historic walled city and Game of Thrones filming location.

Alaskan & Pacific Tender Ports

Ketchikan, Alaska – Known for its rich native culture and stunning landscapes.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia – Crystal-clear waters and luxury overwater bungalows.
Mystery Island, Vanuatu – A tiny, remote island with pristine beaches.

Each tender port offers a unique adventure, making them well worth the trip.

Tips for a Smooth Tendering Experience

To make the most of your tender port visit, keep these tips in mind:

Before You Go

Check the Itinerary – Your cruise documents will indicate which stops are tender ports.
Book Excursions Early – Shore excursions often get priority tender spots.
Prepare for Motion – If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication in advance.

On Tender Day

Arrive Early – If you want to get ashore quickly, pick up tender tickets early.
Dress Comfortably – Wear non-slip shoes, as boarding can be tricky.
Travel Light – Large bags can be cumbersome in the small tender boats.

Returning to the Ship

Watch the Time – Be back at the tender dock well before the final departure.
Expect a Wait – The last tenders of the day are often the most crowded.
Stay Hydrated – If it’s hot, carry a water bottle for the ride back.

Following these tips will help ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable tendering experience.

Tender Port vs. Docking Port: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the key differences between tender ports and docking ports can help set your expectations.

Feature	Tender Port	Docking Port
How You Arrive	By small tender boat	Directly at the dock
Time to Shore	5–15 minutes	Immediate disembarkation
Weather Impact	Can delay or cancel tenders	Less likely to be affected
Mobility	Harder for those with mobility issues	Easier to access
Experience	More scenic, remote destinations	Often more developed

While docking ports offer convenience, tender ports provide access to hidden gems that aren’t reachable otherwise.

What to Do If Your Tender Port Is Canceled

Tender ports are more vulnerable to weather-related cancellations than docking ports. If your stop is canceled, here’s what you can do:

Check for Onboard Activities – Ships often add extra entertainment or events.
Look for Alternative Excursions – Some ships adjust their itinerary and dock elsewhere.
Relax and Enjoy the Ship – Treat yourself to a spa day, special dining, or poolside lounging.

While missing a tender port can be disappointing, cruises offer plenty of ways to make the most of your day.

Final Thoughts

Tender ports add a unique twist to cruising, allowing access to beautiful destinations that can’t accommodate large ships.

While they require extra planning, the rewards—scenic arrivals, fewer crowds, and authentic experiences—make them worthwhile.

Whether you’re heading to Santorini, Grand Cayman, or Bora Bora, now you’re prepared to navigate the tendering process like a pro!