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Carnival introduces quicker boarding of ships by kiosk

Carnival Cruise Lines is trying a new, speed-up check-in system at the Port of Miami FL. As in airports, cruise passengers will be able to board their ships by quickly swiping ID cards at an electronic kiosk that replaces the time-consuming live guard station process.

We recently returned from a cruise of the Mexican Riviera, and all facilities and services aboard the ship were easily and conveniently available. However, when boarding at the original Long Beach CA pier and at every port stop along the cruise, passengers had to wait in hour-long lines for the guards in the terminal to go through the tedious security procedures before they allowed boarding.

Before arriving at the port of embarkation for the cruise at Carnival’s Miami pier, passengers who want to use the quick check-in kiosks are required to pre-register online and must be citizens of the U.S., Canada or other nation that issues visa waivers for US travel. The check-in requires passengers have authorized credit or passport cards to swipe at the kiosk, as is the usual procedures at airports. After passengers clear the security check-in procedure, they will be given their stateroom keys by cruise staffs as they arrive onboard.

If Carnival’s experiment proves effective, plans are in the works for the kiosk check-in procedure to be installed for other Carnival sailings. While we recognize and appreciate the need for tight security, we hope the kiosk check-in procedures will soon become universal for all cruise ships, and eliminate the frustration of long, time-consuming check-in lines.

Prediction: Eleven-Minute Flight NYC To London

It may be years away, but aviation designer Charles Bombardier claims lightning-fast aircraft technology already exists. CNN reports that special engines, cabin design, oxygen fuel and other advancements will soon make the super-quick trip possible.

However, there are just a few minor problems that can’t be overcome by such futuristic flight schedules. It will still take passengers hours to get from home to the airport through jammed roadways. And then, another hour for frisking and fondling through security. And another hour for fliers to board, fight for overhead bag space, get into their seats and buckle up.

A Senior's Very Favorite Travel Destinations

Guest Senior Writer PLG, San Antonio TX: Friends and family often ask about my most enjoyable trip. These three are at the top of my world wanderer list. Although they look very different, there’s a similarity. In each, the most meaningful experiences were when I just blended with friendly locals.

Peru: Visits included Cusco, the cities of the Sacred Valley and fantastic Machu Picchu. Much enjoyment was from exploring the non-tourist areas of the cities. We found the restaurants in Cusco where the locals eat feature amazing ethnic meals for under $10.