What is a tender port?

A tender port is a port where ships cannot dock directly at the pier or terminal, so passengers are transported to and from the ship by smaller boats known as tenders. Tenders are typically small boats or ferries that shuttle passengers between the ship and the port.

Tender ports are often found in locations where the water is too shallow for large ships to dock or where there is limited infrastructure for larger vessels. This can include places like remote islands, small coastal towns, or historic ports with limited facilities.

Passengers usually disembark from the ship onto the tender for transportation to the shore, where they can explore the port of call or participate in shore excursions. Tendering can be a unique and memorable experience for passengers, as they get to see the destination from the water and experience a different mode of transportation.

It is important for passengers to pay attention to the tender schedules and allow enough time to return to the ship before it departs. Delays in tendering can happen due to weather conditions, so it's recommended to plan accordingly and communicate with the ship's crew for guidance.

Overall, tender ports offer a different experience for cruise passengers and allow access to destinations that may not be accessible by larger ships.