Picture this: You’ve just danced your way off a weekend cruise full of rum punch, ocean views, and birthday shenanigans. Your hair’s still salty, your suitcase is heavier with souvenirs and sunburn, and you’re this close to napping in the Uber. The only thing standing between you and home? U.S. Customs.
Enter: Global Entry — my post-cruise lifesaver.
After my 3-day Margaritaville at Sea cruise, I waltzed through the Port of Palm Beach with my passport like the seasoned traveler I pretend to be. No long lines. No stress. Just a quick photo and go. Honestly? It was the best $100 travel investment I’ve ever made.
Margaritaville at Sea delivers big fun in a short time. With only 3 days to celebrate my sister’s birthday, we squeezed in:
– A sail-away party with delicious margaritas
– A beach day in the Bahamas, where we rode jet skis
– Way too many photo ops in our matching outfits
And just when I thought the trip was over, Global Entry gave me one last win.
While most people associate Global Entry with airports, it can also make reentry via cruise ports like the Port of Palm Beach smoother. Here’s why:
– You skip the long customs line after disembarkation
– It includes TSA PreCheck (hello, shoes-staying-on life)
– It’s valid for 5 years
– Worth it for anyone who flies or cruises internationally
Pro Tip: Just remember to bring your physical Global Entry card. Unlike at the airport, U.S. Customs at Margaritaville at Sea does not recognize Global Entry without the physical card. If you don’t have it with you, you’ll be directed to wait in the regular customs line, which can significantly delay your disembarkation.
If you love quick trips, hate long lines, and want to travel like a low-key celeb — Global Entry is a no-brainer. Add it to your pre-cruise checklist right after sunscreen and a floppy hat.
Travel Smarter with Amex Platinum
One of the best perks of my American Express Platinum Card is the $100 credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®. It’s the very reason I was able to skip the long customs lines after my Margaritaville at Sea cruise.
With the Platinum Card®, you’ll also enjoy:
💎 Airport lounge access worldwide (perfect before your cruise flight)
🏨 Fine Hotels & Resorts perks like free breakfast and late checkout
✈️ Airline fee credits + travel protections
🌍 Exclusive luxury travel benefits and concierge services
👉 Ready to make your travel seamless? Apply for the Amex Platinum Card® here.