What I do on embarkation day! This is just what I do, my routine and what I pack in my carry on.
Most regular cruisers have an embarkation routine and I am no different, as my last two, and next two, cruises were on Princess this blog is based on Princess cruises, results with other cruise lines may vary!
Princess normally starts allowing passengers onboard around 11:30 (Captains circle Elite passengers first). Once onboard I usually head straight for the dining room serving lunch (you will get a handy dandy card on boarding letting you know which Dining room is open). I rarely visit the buffet and never on embarkation day, its where most people head for and is crowded and noisy, I much prefer a sedate sit down lunch!
After lunch is an excellent time to explore the ship and take photos, areas are less crowded and you can get some good shots without the crowds. Its a good time to order Spa treatments as cruises sometimes have embarkation day specials and can book up quickly (especially sea days). A quick tip to avoid congestion and waiting for elevators is to use the elevators furthest from the gangway being used to board, the walk will do you good.
Then off to the stateroom and change for the pool, stake a claim on a lounger and order a cocktail with fruit and an umbrella, otherwise how do you know you're on vacation if you're not drinking a fruit filled drink with an umbrella in it? On Princess Medallion class ships, the medallion app can be used to order the aforementioned fruity drink and they will find you, at the time of writing the first drink ordered through the medallion app was free (I am sure Princess will stop this at some point).
Take something to the pool to cover up with as its straight to the mandatory muster station drill before sailing. Do not miss this, its only 20 minutes of your time and, since the Costa Concordia disaster, cruise lines take the muster station drill very seriously, if you miss it they will make you go to your muster station to fulfill the drill.
After the Muster station drill its back to the room, and Poseidon willing, your luggage will be outside your stateroom. I always unpack before getting ready for the evening meal, it only takes 20 minutes and then you don't have see your suitcases again until the end of the cruise. There is also a certain satisfaction to your stateroom feeling organized.
Carry On Essentials
If you plan on going to the pool here are my carry on must pack
Cash (for tipping the quayside porters)
Passports/Medallions
Sunscreen (aftersun too)
Sunglasses
A hat (a bald mans savior, and yes I carry two)
Flip Flops/deck shoes
Bathing suit
A cover up (for the muster station drill)
Camera
Just incase the luggage doesn't arrive at your stateroom before the evening meal, I would also recommend
Underwear
A clean shirt/top
Any medication you'll need
Not sure it needs to be said, but obviously carry with you any valuables (jewelry for formal night) and expensive electronics, cruise ships are not immune to theft.