London (Tower Bridge), England
Cruise Port Guide
Upcoming Sailings for London Tower Bridge England
London Tower Bridge England Port Overview
Tilbury LICT operates almost exclusively as a homeport (turnaround port) rather than a mid-cruise port of call. The vast majority of passengers at this terminal are embarking or disembarking for the full voyage, not spending a single port day ashore and returning to the ship. If your itinerary does include Tilbury as an intermediate port call — for example, on a longer repositioning voyage — the guidance above applies; however, be aware that terminal operations and staffing on a turnaround day versus a port-call day may differ significantly. Confirm with your cruise line what services and access will be available during your specific call. Factor re-boarding security time into your return plan. Do not treat All Aboard as the moment to arrive at the terminal gate.
Port Overview
London Tilbury — officially the London International Cruise Terminal (LICT), Tilbury, Essex RM18 7NG — sits on the north bank of the River Thames approximately 25 miles (40 km) east of central London. Managed by Forth Ports, it is London's principal and only deep-water cruise terminal, a Grade II Listed building originally opened in 1930 that was privatised in 1992 and fully reopened for cruise operations in 1995. The terminal handles in excess of 100,000 cruise passengers per year and operates as a homeport (turnaround) facility rather than a port-of-call. Its historic significance includes the 1948 arrival of HMT Empire Windrush and the departure of the 'Ten Pound Poms' emigrant sailings to Australia in the 1960s. Cruise line shore excursions from Tilbury, where offered, are typically London city day tours priced from approximately £50–£120 per person; prices for other itinerary ports will vary. You should confirm current excursion pricing directly with your cruise line before your voyage. Note: The user's query references 'Tower Bridge' as a location identifier; Tower Bridge is a central London landmark located approximately 25 miles (40.2 km) upriver from Tilbury. It is NOT a cruise terminal. All cruise operations discussed in this guide refer to the London International Cruise Terminal at Tilbury, Essex — the operational homeport for London-based cruising. Smaller expedition and luxury vessels occasionally moor at Greenwich Ship Tier (near Greenwich Pier) on the Thames in London itself, using tender boats; this is a separate facility and is noted where relevant.
Terminal Assignments
London International Cruise Terminal (LICT) — Tilbury
Grade II Listed building on Ferry Road, Tilbury, Essex RM18 7NG. Located on the River Thames on a 348-metre (1,142 ft) floating landing stage that rises and falls with the tide, providing level gangway access at all tidal states. Handles ships up to 294 metres (0.2 mi) (965 ft) LOA, maximum draft 10 metres (0.0 mi) (33 ft). Facilities include check-in hall, baggage handling, small café, seating areas, accessible toilets, and an adjacent multi-storey car park with over 1,200 spaces. Ambassador Cruise Line is the primary resident operator; Viking, Oceania, Ponant, Emerald Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Fred Olsen, Hurtigruten, and Azamara have all been confirmed as users. Other cruise lines use the terminal for seasonal, repositioning, or charter sailings. You should confirm your specific cruise line's terminal assignment directly with the line before travel. ()
Greenwich Ship Tier (Greenwich Pier)
A floating pontoon on the Thames in the London Borough of Greenwich, operated by the Port of London Authority. Used by smaller cruise ships (LOA up to approximately 228 metres (0.1 mi) / 748 ft), mega-yachts, and expedition vessels. Tender boats are used to ferry passengers between ship and the pier. Located near the Cutty Sark, National Maritime Museum, and Greenwich railway station. This is a separate facility from Tilbury LICT and is not relevant to passengers sailing on mainstream cruise ships. You should confirm whether your vessel uses this facility directly with your cruise line. ()
Arrival & Drop-off
Arrival type
dock
Drop-off point
The Drop-Off Point for this guide is the London International Cruise Terminal main building entrance on Ferry Road, Tilbury (). This is the point at which taxis, private cars, Uber, and coach transfers deposit passengers directly outside the terminal building. All distances, walk times, and transport references in this guide are measured from this point. Passengers arriving by car park in the adjacent multi-storey (turn left at the mini-roundabout in front of the terminal) and walk a very short distance to the terminal entrance. The drop-off loop itself is a small, single-lane area; Ambassador Cruise Line explicitly advises passengers to arrive only at their designated embarkation time to avoid congestion. Do not treat the drop-off zone as a waiting area.
Mandatory shuttle
No mandatory port shuttle operates between the ship and a city centre. The London International Cruise Terminal is a self-contained facility at the riverside — passengers embark and disembark directly at the terminal. No shuttle bus between ship and city is required or routinely provided as part of port operations. However, passengers wishing to visit central London from Tilbury should note: Tilbury Town railway station is approximately a 20-minute walk or 5-minute taxi/Uber ride from the LICT terminal entrance. From Tilbury Town, c2c National Rail services run to London Fenchurch Street in approximately 40–45 minutes, with trains running roughly every 30 minutes during peak times. At Fenchurch Street, Tower Hill (Circle and District lines) and Tower Gateway (DLR) are within easy walking distance, connecting passengers to the full London Underground network. BritRail Pass holders: the c2c service is covered by BritRail Passes on the National Rail network. You should confirm current c2c timetables and fares at www.c2c-online.co.uk before travel. Passengers without a car who do not wish to walk to the station should arrange an Uber or pre-booked taxi in advance, as the immediate area around the terminal has limited on-demand taxi supply.
Ship size context
Tilbury LICT primarily receives small-to-mid-size cruise ships — vessels in the range of roughly 500 to 2,000 passengers — rather than the mega-ships of 3,000+ passengers that dominate ports such as Southampton or Miami. Ambassador Cruise Line's fleet (Ambassador Ambience and Ambassador Ambition), along with Viking, Oceania, Ponant, and Emerald vessels, are all in this size category. This means port-day congestion at the terminal itself is generally manageable, taxi and ride-hailing queues outside are rarely overwhelming, and the terminal building does not feel overwhelmed on a typical sailing day. However, because Tilbury operates almost exclusively as a turnaround homeport, the majority of passenger movement happens on embarkation and disembarkation days rather than mid-cruise port calls — meaning the terminal car park, drop-off zone, and taxi area can experience significant congestion during these peak periods. Passengers joining or leaving the ship should plan arrival times carefully and avoid the busiest embarkation windows if possible.
Drop-off point details
The terminal main entrance drop-off is on Ferry Road, immediately in front of the LICT building. From the A1089, passengers follow signs for 'Cruise Terminal and Ferry,' pass Tilbury Town railway station on the left, turn right onto Ferry Road, and approach the terminal via the mini-roundabout. For drop-off, do NOT turn left into the car park at the first mini-roundabout — continue to the next mini-roundabout, turn right, then immediately left. The terminal building will be directly ahead. Luggage porters are present to collect bags. The car park entrance is at the first mini-roundabout to the left. Tilbury Town railway station (c2c National Rail, London Fenchurch Street line) is approximately a 20-minute walk or a short taxi/Uber ride from the terminal entrance. Uber is available in this area; pre-booking a licensed minicab is also a reliable option. An Uber from central London (e.g., Victoria) to the terminal costs approximately £50 and takes around 45 minutes in clear traffic — confirm current pricing in-app before travel.
No shuttle required
There is no shuttle bus required between the cruise ship and the city at this port. Transport from LICT to central London is the passenger's own responsibility and is accomplished via: (1) pre-booked private car or taxi, (2) Uber (available in Tilbury), or (3) walking/taxi to Tilbury Town station and taking the c2c train to London Fenchurch Street. Passengers who disembark at Tilbury without pre-arranged transport or a plan to reach Tilbury Town station may find themselves in a predominantly industrial port environment with limited immediate amenities. Plan your onward transport before arriving at the terminal.
Terminal Environment
Upon exiting the London International Cruise Terminal building on Ferry Road, passengers face a modest riverside industrial port environment — not a tourist promenade. The immediate surroundings are functional port infrastructure: the multi-storey car park is to the left, the drop-off and pick-up loop is directly in front, and the Thames waterfront with the floating landing stage is behind the terminal building. There are no shops, restaurants, or visitor services within immediate walking distance of the terminal exit — the small café and seating are inside the terminal building itself, available during embarkation and disembarkation periods only. Tilbury Town itself is approximately a mile away on foot along a route that passes through a residential and light-industrial area; it offers basic amenities but is not a visitor destination. Passengers with vehicles will find the adjacent multi-storey car park straightforward to navigate. Those relying on taxis or Uber should have their app ready before exiting the terminal, as walk-up taxi availability at the kerbside is not guaranteed. The terminal building is fully on one level and accessible for wheelchair users; the floating landing stage gangway maintains level access at all tidal states.
Re-boarding
Gate location
Same terminal — the London International Cruise Terminal building entrance on Ferry Road, Tilbury. There is only one cruise terminal at this facility; all re-boarding for ships at Tilbury LICT is processed through the same building used for embarkation. You should confirm your specific ship's re-boarding gate assignment via your cruise line's daily program or ship announcements. ()
Documents required
Your cruise ship card (sea pass / boarding card) and a valid government-issued photo ID or passport as required by your cruise line — carry both at all times ashore. Non-UK/non-EEA nationals should carry their passport given UK border requirements. You should confirm exact document requirements with your cruise line before going ashore.
Security queue estimate
Security queue times in the final 60–90 minutes before All Aboard can extend to 20–30 minutes or more during peak re-boarding periods, particularly on turnaround days when outgoing and incoming passengers share terminal infrastructure. You should confirm this information before your visit.
Customs pre-clearance
Not applicable for mid-cruise port calls at Tilbury — this terminal operates as a homeport turnaround facility; customs and UK Border Force clearance occurs at the beginning and end of the full voyage, not during a day-call. You should confirm with your cruise line whether any specific UK customs or border procedures apply to your itinerary.
Getting Around London Tower Bridge England
Walkability
Tilbury (London International Cruise Terminal) is one of the least walkable cruise ports in Northern Europe. The terminal sits inside an active industrial deep-water port on the north bank of the Thames in Essex, approximately 25 miles (40.2 km) east of central London. The immediate surroundings are port access roads, freight yards, and cargo infrastructure with no pedestrian amenity, no shade, no tourist services, and no attractions within safe walking distance of the terminal building. Tilbury Town itself offers very little for cruise passengers. The entire visitor proposition of this port is central London, and reaching it requires a confirmed transport plan before you step ashore. The Drop-Off Point is the forecourt directly outside the main terminal building on Ferry Road. All distances and times in this guide are measured from that point. Ships dock directly at the pier — no tendering is required. Currency is British Pounds Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are accepted almost universally in London; contactless payment including mobile pay (Apple Pay, Google Pay) works on the Tube, buses, and most vendors. Carry a small amount of cash for market stalls and smaller local purchases.
Transport Options
Pickup location
Directly outside the main terminal building on Ferry Road. Drivers collect from the terminal forecourt. This is the standard and most reliable transport option at Tilbury.
Rate structure
Fixed price, pre-booked only. Rates are agreed at time of booking. No meter. Surge pricing does not apply to pre-booked fixed-rate transfers.
Payment
Credit/debit card (online at booking), cash by arrangement with driver. Contactless accepted by most operators.
Notes
Pre-booking is essential — there is no rank of metered black cabs waiting at the terminal. Reputable operators confirmed by cruise passenger communities include Blackberry Cars, Parker Cars, and Addison Lee. For groups, request an MPV or people carrier (not a 'van', which in the UK refers to a cargo vehicle). The terminal forecourt is described by Ambassador Cruise Line as a small area — arrange precise pickup coordination with your driver in advance. Uber and other rideshare apps do have coverage in this area but supply can be unpredictable; pre-booked fixed-rate transfers are strongly preferred.
Pickup location
Tilbury Town Station is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) (20-minute walk or £8–10 taxi) from the terminal building. The station is on Ferry Road / St Andrews Road. The walk involves crossing a road bridge with stairs — not suitable for heavy luggage, strollers, or wheelchair users without assistance. A taxi between the terminal and the station is strongly recommended.
Rate structure
Standard UK rail fares. Advance purchase online saves significantly — up to 40% off walk-up fares when booked more than 3 days ahead.
Payment
Contactless bank card or mobile pay at station barriers (no Oyster Card required for this route — Oyster does not extend to Tilbury). Cash at ticket office. Online booking via c2c-online.co.uk.
Notes
On arrival at London Fenchurch Street, passengers can walk to Tower Hill Underground station (Circle/District lines) or Tower Gateway DLR in approximately 5–8 minutes. From there, the entire London Underground network is accessible using contactless payment or Oyster Card. Buy or top up an Oyster Card at Fenchurch Street or use your contactless bank card directly on Tube barriers and buses — both are accepted and charge the same capped daily fare. The station bridge at Tilbury Town has a steep staircase reported by passengers — confirm accessibility status before your visit if travelling with mobility equipment or strollers.
Pickup location
Coach stop outside the cruise terminal building. Ambassador Cruise Line operates a dedicated coach service between Victoria Coach Station, central London, and Tilbury terminal on embarkation and disembarkation days.
Rate structure
Fixed coach fare, bookable through Ambassador Cruise Line at time of cruise booking or via customer service.
Payment
Pre-booked through cruise line only. Payment at time of booking.
Notes
This service is operated by Ambassador Cruise Line and is available to their passengers. Coaches depart Victoria Coach Station on a fixed schedule tied to the ship's sailing times — you must arrive at Victoria in good time before departure. On return, passengers have reported delays caused by slow disembarkation; allow significant buffer time if you have onward travel connections from Victoria. Other cruise lines using Tilbury occasionally may not offer this service — confirm with your cruise line.
Pickup location
Grays CabLine and other local minicab firms operate from Grays station (one stop before Tilbury Town on the C2C line) and Tilbury Town Station. Taxis are not reliably available at the terminal forecourt on an ad-hoc basis — you must pre-book or walk/taxi to the station rank.
Rate structure
Local metered or agreed fare for short journeys within Tilbury and Thurrock area. Pre-book for terminal pickup.
Payment
Cash and card accepted by most local firms. Confirm payment method when booking.
Notes
For journeys beyond Tilbury into London or to airports, pre-booked private transfers (see above) are more reliable and often competitively priced when split across a group. Local firms covering this area include Grays CabLine (01375 855555 — confirm this number is current before your visit).
Congestion buffer
When multiple ships are simultaneously in port at Tilbury, or on peak embarkation days when the terminal forecourt is at capacity, add 15–20 minutes to every transport estimate in this guide. The terminal forecourt is confirmed as a small area — taxi and private transfer pickups can become congested. C2C trains to Fenchurch Street can fill quickly on heavy cruise days. If you see more than one ship in port, apply the congestion buffer to all journey legs without exception.
Port agents
Independent port agents do not routinely operate at Tilbury cruise terminal in the manner seen at some Caribbean or Mediterranean ports. The terminal is a controlled industrial port environment with no general public access to the berth area and no freelance guide or agent services operating at the gangway. Your cruise line's shore excursion desk is the primary on-ship resource. For pre-arranged private tours and transfers, reputable licensed operators (Blackberry Cars, Addison Lee, Anglo Transfers, and similar firms) should be booked in advance directly online. These are private transfer and tour companies, not port agents, and are not affiliated with any cruise line. Passengers engage them entirely at their own discretion and risk. You should verify any operator's licensing and reviews before booking.
Known scams
No specific, confirmed scam patterns targeting cruise passengers at Tilbury terminal have been identified from live sources at the time this guide was prepared. The terminal is a controlled port environment with limited unsolicited vendor access. However, exercise standard caution: only use pre-booked, named transfer services or operators you have independently verified. Do not accept unsolicited offers of taxi rides from individuals in the terminal car park or forecourt who are not in a clearly marked, licensed vehicle. If you are quoted a fare that is significantly higher than the ranges in this guide, decline and use a pre-booked service. You should confirm this information remains current before your visit.
Food & Dining in London Tower Bridge England
Food Culture
London's food identity near the Tower Bridge corridor is inseparable from the city's role as a trading capital, an imperial seat, and a working river port. The stretch of the Thames from the Pool of London to Wapping was, for centuries, the engine room of British commerce — and the food that fed its dockers, merchants, and market traders still defines what Londoners eat today. Pie and mash with parsley liquor originated directly in the docklands as cheap, filling fuel for labourers. Jellied eels were the fast food of the riverside working class, drawn from the Thames itself when the river still teemed with freshwater eels. The Full English Breakfast codified itself during the Industrial Revolution as a calorie-dense start for manual workers, and the Sunday Roast grew from the habit of slow-roasting meat while families attended church — a tradition cemented across every London pub within walking distance of the city's ancient parishes. Fish and chips became a national institution here in part because the East End's Sephardic Jewish community introduced battered fried fish, which eventually merged with Flemish chip-frying traditions; the dish was so central to morale that it was exempted from World War II rationing. Brick Lane's salt beef beigels trace their roots to the Ashkenazi Jewish community that settled the East End from the late 19th century onward, and the Bangladeshi community that later made Brick Lane its own turned curry into the city's de facto second cuisine. Borough Market — a wholesale food market operating on the Southwark bank since at least the 13th century — remains the larder of the neighbourhood, supplying artisan produce, aged cheeses, and fresh bread to independent kitchens and street traders alike. This is not a port cuisine defined by a single geography or ethnicity; it is a cumulative record of every wave of migration and trade that passed through one of the world's great river cities.
Signature Dishes to Try
Pie and Mash with Parsley Liquor
This dish originated in the London docklands — specifically the area around Bermondsey, Southwark, and the East End — as affordable, high-calorie fuel for the river's labourers and market porters. The pie shops that served it were the fast-food infrastructure of Victorian working-class London. M. Manze on Tower Bridge Road, established in 1902 and still in its original tiled interior, is one of the last surviving examples of this tradition and sits within walking distance of the Tower Bridge drop-off point.
M. Manze, 87 Tower Bridge Road, Bermondsey, SE1 4TW ([Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?q=M.+Manze,+87+Tower+Bridge+Road,+London+SE1+4TW))
Full English Breakfast (the 'Fry-Up')
The Full English solidified as a class-spanning institution during the Industrial Revolution, when London's factories and dockyards demanded a calorie-dense morning meal. In the East End and Bermondsey neighbourhoods adjacent to the Tower, transport caffs (greasy spoons) served this plate to market traders, dock workers, and overnight lorry drivers for over a century. The format has barely changed, and a good greasy spoon near Borough Market or Bermondsey is one of the most authentically London experiences available to a port-day visitor.
Monmouth Coffee Company / nearby Borough Market traders, Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, SE1 1TL ([Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?q=Borough+Market,+8+Southwark+Street,+London+SE1+1TL))
Jellied Eels
Jellied eels are the most distinctively London food on this list — they are not a regional British dish but a specifically Thames-side dish, born from the fact that eels were abundant in the river and cheap enough for the riverside poor. By the 19th century, eel stalls were fixtures along the Embankment and in the East End markets. They remain a genuine test of commitment to London food culture, served at pie-and-mash shops and market stalls around Bermondsey and Billingsgate.
M. Manze, 87 Tower Bridge Road, Bermondsey, SE1 4TW ([Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?q=M.+Manze,+87+Tower+Bridge+Road,+London+SE1+4TW))
Salt Beef Beigel (Brick Lane Beigel)
The salt beef beigel is a product of the Ashkenazi Jewish community that settled Whitechapel and Spitalfields — immediately north of the Tower Bridge corridor — from the 1880s onward, fleeing persecution in Eastern Europe. Brick Lane's beigel shops, some open 24 hours a day, are living remnants of a community that shaped the East End's character before being largely displaced by the mid-20th century. The dish is available nowhere else in Britain in quite this form — the combination of the hand-rolled beigel, the brined brisket, and the sharp yellow mustard is entirely specific to this neighbourhood.
Beigel Bake, 159 Brick Lane, Shoreditch, E1 6SB ([Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?q=Beigel+Bake,+159+Brick+Lane,+London+E1+6SB))
Sunday Roast
The Sunday Roast's London identity is tied to the pub, which served as the community's dining room for those without kitchen capacity — a category that included most of the Victorian East End's tenement dwellers. The pub roast tradition is strongest in London's historic inner-city pubs, where the format has been unchanged for over a century. Available every Sunday at gastropubs within the Tower Bridge neighbourhood, several of which carry strong independent reputations.
The Anchor Bankside, 34 Park Street, Bankside, SE1 9EF ([Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?q=The+Anchor+Bankside,+34+Park+Street,+London+SE1+9EF))
Chicken Tikka Masala (London Curry House Style)
Although fiercely debated in terms of origin, chicken tikka masala was formalised as a dish in London's and Glasgow's South Asian restaurant scene, and it is the East End — particularly Brick Lane and Whitechapel, home to the UK's largest Bangladeshi community — that developed the curry house as an institution. The Bangladeshi community's concentration in this neighbourhood from the 1970s onward made the area the de facto capital of British Indian restaurant culture, and the dish they refined here became the UK's most ordered restaurant meal. Eating a curry on Brick Lane, within a short journey of Tower Bridge, is engaging directly with that specific urban food history.
Dishoom King's Cross / Shoreditch, or Brick Lane curry houses, Brick Lane, Shoreditch, E1 ([Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?q=Brick+Lane,+Shoreditch,+London+E1))
Recommended Restaurants
Distance & transport
0.4 miles (0.6 km) from Tower Millennium Pier
Hours
Monday–Thursday 11:00–14:00; Friday 10:00–14:15; Saturday 10:00–14:45; Sunday closed. You should confirm hours before visiting.
What to order
Minced beef pie with mashed potato and parsley liquor (the definitive version of the dish); jellied eels on the side for the full East End experience; stewed eels if available on the day
Why it's worth visiting
Established in 1902 and still operated by the same family, M. Manze is the oldest surviving pie and mash shop in London. The original Victorian tiled interior — white walls, marble counters, wooden benches — is a listed interior and has not been significantly altered in over a century. This is not a recreation of East End food culture; it is the thing itself.
Operational notes
Cash preferred; card accepted. No reservations — queue and seat yourself. Closes early afternoon; well within a standard port-day window. Portions are generous and prices are among the lowest of any sit-down establishment in central London. Closed Sundays.
Distance & transport
1.4 miles (2.3 km) from Tower Millennium Pier
Hours
Monday–Thursday 08:00–23:00; Friday 08:00–00:00; Saturday 09:00–00:00; Sunday 09:00–22:00. You should confirm hours before visiting.
What to order
Bacon naan roll (black pepper bacon, cream cheese, chilli jam — a Dishoom signature available at breakfast and brunch); lamb raan (slow-roasted leg of lamb, must be pre-ordered 24 hours ahead); house black dal (simmered for 24 hours, rich and smoky)
Why it's worth visiting
Dishoom's Shoreditch branch occupies a converted Victorian warehouse and models its atmosphere on the Irani cafés of 1960s Bombay — a format that is itself a piece of South Asian culinary history. The food is consistently cited by London restaurant critics as among the most reliable high-quality Indian cooking in the city. It is not a tourist trap; it is genuinely where Londoners eat.
Operational notes
No reservations for groups under 6 at most branches — expect a queue during peak lunch hours (12:30–14:30). Queues move quickly. Card and contactless payment strongly preferred; cash accepted. Pre-ordering the lamb raan requires a 24-hour advance call to the restaurant. Port-day timing is very workable for breakfast or early lunch.
Distance & transport
0.9 miles (1.4 km) from Tower Millennium Pier
Hours
Monday–Saturday 12:00–15:45 and 17:00–21:45; Sunday 12:00–15:45 only. You should confirm hours before visiting.
What to order
Pappardelle with 8-hour Dexter beef shin ragù (the dish that built the restaurant's reputation); tagliarini with Dorset crab, chilli, and lemon; cacio e pepe (rigatoni, Pecorino Romano, black pepper — simple and technically precise)
Why it's worth visiting
Padella is a small-plates pasta restaurant that made its name by producing hand-rolled, freshly made pasta at prices far below comparably skilled competitors. It is consistently ranked among London's best value restaurants by critics at the Evening Standard and The Guardian. The Borough Market location places it in one of London's oldest food market sites.
Operational notes
No reservations — walk-in queue only. Arrive before 12:00 or after 14:30 to minimise wait time on a port day. Queue is typically 20–45 minutes at peak. Card only; no cash. Small dining room with approximately 40 covers. Borough Market itself is open Tuesday–Saturday and worth exploring before or after your meal.
Distance & transport
1.5 miles (2.4 km) from Tower Millennium Pier
Hours
Open 24 hours, 7 days a week. You should confirm this information before your visit.
What to order
Salt beef beigel with mustard and pickled gherkin (the definitive order); smoked salmon and cream cheese beigel; fresh plain beigels warm from the oven sold by the bag
Why it's worth visiting
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, Beigel Bake is an East End institution that has operated on Brick Lane since 1974 and reflects the neighbourhood's Ashkenazi Jewish heritage. The salt beef is brined and simmered in-house. The price point is extraordinary for central London. This is one of the few places in the city where the food, the setting, and the price have remained essentially unchanged for fifty years.
Operational notes
Cash only. No seating inside — counter service and takeaway only. Extremely fast service. No reservations possible or needed. The street itself (Brick Lane) is most atmospheric on Sunday mornings when the market is active. Port-day timing is completely flexible given 24-hour operation.
Distance & transport
0.8 miles (1.3 km) from Tower Millennium Pier
Hours
Monday–Thursday 11:00–23:00; Friday–Saturday 11:00–midnight; Sunday 12:00–22:30. You should confirm hours before visiting.
What to order
Sunday roast (beef or chicken, served with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and gravy — available Sundays only); fish and chips with mushy peas and tartare sauce; steak and ale pie with mash and gravy
Why it's worth visiting
The Anchor is a genuine 18th-century Thames-side pub that has occupied its current site since 1676 in various iterations, placing it in the same riverside landscape as Southwark Cathedral and Borough Market. The South Bank riverside terrace offers unobstructed views of the City of London skyline and St Paul's Cathedral — one of the best pub views in London accessible on foot from the Tower Bridge pier.
Operational notes
Card and cash accepted. No reservations required for the main bar; large groups should book ahead for the restaurant section. The riverside terrace fills quickly on warm days — arrive early or expect to stand. Sunday roast is available only on Sundays. Port-day timing works well for lunch from 12:00 onward.
Distance & transport
0.9 miles (1.4 km) from Tower Millennium Pier
Hours
Market stalls open Monday–Thursday 10:00–17:00; Friday 10:00–18:00; Saturday 08:00–17:00. Closed Sundays. You should confirm hours before visiting.
What to order
Roast pork belly bap from Roast Hog (crackling, apple sauce, stuffing); Neal's Yard Dairy cheese selections with fresh bread; Scotch egg from the market traders; seasonal fruit and artisan pastries
Why it's worth visiting
Borough Market has operated as a food wholesale and retail site since at least the 13th century, making it one of the oldest food markets in Britain. The current market concentrates a remarkable density of high-quality independent producers — cheeses, charcuterie, fresh bread, hot street food, and seasonal British produce — in a compact covered Victorian structure. It is not a tourist market that happens to sell food; it is a working food market that tourists have discovered. The proximity to Southwark Cathedral adds historic context.
Operational notes
Cash and card both widely accepted depending on individual trader. No reservations — all walk-up. The market is covered but can be very crowded on Fridays and Saturdays between 12:00 and 14:00; arriving before noon or after 14:00 reduces congestion significantly. Most hot food traders sell out before closing — plan to arrive by mid-morning for the widest selection. An excellent stop to combine with Padella next door.
Shore Excursions & Tours
Private sailing trips around Fishers island from New London, CT
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
New London Harbor, New London, CT — approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 km) / 10-minute walk from the New London State Pier cruise terminal
What's included
Private sailing yacht charter, guided sailing experience from New London Harbor to Fishers Island, opportunity to anchor and swim, scenic photo opportunities
Not included
Gratuities, personal purchases, food and beverages, transportation to/from meeting point
Children & accessibility
Suitable for older children and families; younger children should be supervised closely on deck; life jackets typically provided — confirm with operator
Weather contingency
Free cancellation typically available up to 24 hours in advance; sailing trips are weather-dependent — contact operator directly for their weather policy and same-day cancellation terms relevant to cruise passengers
Reviewer summary
This private sailing charter offers an intimate and memorable way to explore the waters around New London, gliding from the harbor out to scenic Fishers Island on a relaxing yacht. With departure times at 10am, 2pm, and 4:30pm, it fits neatly into a cruise port day schedule. The three-hour duration leaves ample time to return to the ship, and the possibility of anchoring for a swim adds a spontaneous, adventurous touch. Perfect for couples or small groups who want a serene alternative to land-based sightseeing.
HighFlyer Zipline at Foxwoods
by Viator Partner
Meeting point
Fox Tower Rooftop, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Mashantucket, CT — approximately 12 miles (19.3 km) / 20-25 minutes by car or taxi from the New London State Pier cruise terminal
What's included
HighFlyer zipline experience from Fox Tower rooftop (350 feet elevation), 3/4-mile zipline flight over treetops at up to 45mph, landing at Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center, audio guide
Not included
Gratuities, transportation to/from Foxwoods Resort, personal purchases, casino activities, museum admission
Children & accessibility
Suitable for older children and teenagers; minimum height, weight, and age restrictions apply — confirm specific requirements with the operator before booking; not recommended for very young children or those with a fear of heights
Weather contingency
Free cancellation typically available up to 24 hours in advance; outdoor zipline operations may be suspended in high winds, lightning, or heavy rain — check operator's same-day weather policy, especially important for cruise passengers with fixed departure times
Reviewer summary
The HighFlyer Zipline at Foxwoods delivers a genuine adrenaline rush, launching passengers from 350 feet atop the Fox Tower and soaring over the Connecticut treetops at 45mph with sweeping views all the way to Long Island Sound. At just 45 minutes for the experience itself, it's an ideal high-impact excursion for cruise passengers who want thrills without sacrificing half their port day. Foxwoods Resort Casino adds the option to explore shops or grab a meal before or after, making it a well-rounded shore excursion. Highly rated by over 100 reviewers, it's a proven crowd-pleaser for adventure-seekers of all ages.
Shopping in London Tower Bridge England
Shopping Overview
London via Tilbury cruise terminal puts passengers within 45 minutes by direct train (c2c rail from Tilbury Town to London Fenchurch Street) of one of the world's great retail cities. The London International Cruise Terminal itself — located at Tilbury, Essex RM18 7NG () — has minimal retail: a small café and basic shopping only. Do not expect airport-style duty-free at the terminal. The serious shopping is in London proper: the West End, Borough Market, Portobello Road, and the covered markets of Greenwich and Camden. Passengers with a full port day have ample time to reach Central London, shop, and return before the ship's All Aboard — but tight timing management is essential given the 45-minute rail journey each way plus transfer times at both ends.
What's Worth Buying
British Woollens and Cashmere — Scotland and England have a centuries-long heritage in wool and cashmere production. Brands such as Johnstons of Elgin and quality department stores (John Lewis, Liberty London) stock genuine British and Scottish-made knitwear, scarves, and throws at prices that are frequently more competitive than export markets. Liberty London () is particularly noted for its own-brand fabric and accessories with demonstrable British provenance.
Fine English Bone China and Ceramics — Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, and Emma Bridgewater are all British-origin manufacturers with long production histories. Department stores and specialist retailers in London stock the full ranges at UK retail pricing, often below what these brands charge in U.S. specialty import stores. Pieces purchased here carry authentic UK manufacturer hallmarks. Confirm current availability of specific ranges before your visit.
English Antiques and Vintage Collectibles — Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill () operates on Saturdays as the world's largest antique market, with hundreds of dealers selling silverware, vintage jewelry, maps, prints, and decorative objects with genuine British provenance. Prices range from affordable to significant; negotiation is normal at stall level. Note: Portobello Road's antique section operates primarily on Saturdays — confirm the day of your port call before planning this excursion.
Scotch Whisky and British Gin — The UK is the origin market for Scotch whisky and a global center for artisan gin production. Specialist retailers such as The Whisky Exchange () stock single malts, limited editions, and small-batch gins at origin-market pricing, often including expressions not exported to the U.S. market. One liter of alcohol may be brought back duty-free per U.S. Customs rules; additional quantities must be declared. CBP confirmation is recommended before purchasing multiple bottles.
Duty-free & Customs Allowance
U.S. residents returning from the UK are entitled to an $800 duty-free personal exemption per person, provided they have been outside the United States for at least 48 hours (confirmed from CBP.gov). This covers goods for personal use or gifts declared to U.S. Customs. Goods valued between $800 and $1,800 are assessed at a flat 4% duty rate. All travelers must complete CBP Declaration Form 6059B. Note: as of August 29, 2025, the de minimis exemption for commercial imports has been suspended by executive order — this primarily affects e-commerce shipments, but you should confirm current personal traveler exemption rules directly at CBP.gov before your voyage, as the regulatory environment is actively evolving. Goods from the UK that commonly trigger CBP declaration requirements include: fresh or unprocessed foods (meats, dairy, fresh fruit), plant material and seeds, antiques (declare all; items over 100 years old are generally duty-free but must be declared), and alcohol above one liter. The UK is not an EU member, so EU VAT refund rules do not apply. The UK operates its own VAT system at a standard rate of 20%. Non-UK residents (including U.S. cruise passengers) are no longer eligible for VAT refunds on goods taken out of the UK as of January 1, 2021, following Brexit. The UK government ended the VAT Retail Export Scheme for overseas visitors. You should confirm this with individual retailers before making large purchases in anticipation of a refund, as some retailers may promote schemes that no longer apply universally.
Practical Notes
Major department stores (Harrods, John Lewis, Selfridges, Liberty) accept all major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Contactless card payment is near-universal at London shops, restaurants, and transport. Market stalls at Portobello Road, Borough Market, and smaller independent vendors frequently prefer or require cash — carry at least £20–£40 in cash for market shopping. USD is not accepted at shops or markets in London; you will need British pounds sterling (GBP, £). Exchanging currency before reaching London is preferable; avoid currency exchange kiosks inside Oxford Street tourist areas which apply poor rates. ATMs are widely available at London Fenchurch Street station and throughout Central London; use bank-branded ATMs (Barclays, Lloyds, HSBC, NatWest) rather than standalone non-bank ATMs which commonly apply surcharges of £1.75–£3.00 per withdrawal. For authentic local goods versus tourist souvenirs: Borough Market () for artisan food; Portobello Road () for antiques (Saturdays); Neal's Yard in Covent Garden () for independent British brands. Oxford Street and Carnaby Street cater primarily to mass-market international retail and souvenir shops.
Known scams
No port-specific predatory shopping operations targeting cruise passengers at Tilbury terminal have been confirmed from live sources at the time of writing. The terminal's limited retail footprint means the typical gem scam, fake duty-free, or high-pressure jewelry store patterns seen at busier cruise ports do not operate here in the same way. In Central London, standard urban caution applies: street vendors selling 'designer' goods (watches, handbags, sunglasses) in markets and on side streets near tourist areas including Oxford Street and Covent Garden are selling counterfeit products. Purchasing counterfeit goods is illegal in the UK and goods can be seized. At Portobello Road and similar antique markets, misrepresentation of item age or provenance does occur — buy antiques only from dealers who provide written receipts with item descriptions. You should confirm current local scam advisories with the UK's Action Fraud service or the U.S. Embassy London travel advisory before your visit.
Practical Information
General Information
Peak season
Peak season at London Tilbury is June through August, coinciding with European summer and school holidays. During this period, Central London attractions including the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the British Museum experience their longest queues — walk-up waits of 60–90 minutes are common at the Tower of London without pre-booked timed tickets. Taxis from Tilbury Town station are limited in supply; during peak sailings when multiple coaches and passengers arrive simultaneously, wait times can extend to 20–30 minutes. The c2c train to London Fenchurch Street is the most reliable transport option and operates on a regular schedule. Restaurant wait times at popular establishments near Borough Market and Covent Garden peak at 30–45 minutes during summer lunch hours. Cruise ship departures from Tilbury also concentrate in spring and early summer — May through July — for Northern European, Norwegian Fjords, and Baltic itineraries, meaning the terminal itself can be busy with simultaneous embarkations. Plan all London excursions to allow a minimum 2.5-hour return buffer to the ship.
Weather
London's weather is temperate and variable year-round. Rain is possible in any month and should be assumed as a realistic risk on any port day regardless of season. Summer (June–August) temperatures average 18–23°C (64–73°F) and are occasionally warm enough to make prolonged outdoor walking uncomfortable, but extreme heat events — though increasingly possible — are not a daily planning constraint the way afternoon thunderstorms are in tropical ports. Afternoon rain showers are the primary weather risk; carry a compact umbrella or waterproof layer. Winter port calls (November–March) bring short daylight hours (sunset as early as 15:45 in December), cold temperatures of 3–8°C (37–46°F), and persistent grey skies. Tender suspension is not a practical concern at Tilbury — vessels berth directly at the floating landing stage, which rises and falls with the Thames tide and provides consistent level access to the ship in all normal weather conditions. Weather-related disruptions to the c2c rail line are rare but do occur; allow extra buffer time if storm warnings are in effect.
Language
Primary language is English. No secondary language is required in any tourist area in London or at the Tilbury terminal. English is the working language at all attraction ticket desks, restaurants, transport providers, tour operators, and the Tilbury cruise terminal. Communication note: WhatsApp is commonly used by local tour operators and private hire drivers for booking confirmations in London. Text messaging is standard for taxi and minicab pre-bookings. Most London restaurants accept reservations via email or online booking platforms (OpenTable, Resy). No translation tools are required for this destination.
Currency & payments
The local currency is the British pound sterling (GBP, symbol: £). USD is not accepted at any shops, markets, restaurants, or transport providers in London or at the Tilbury terminal. Do not expect USD to be taken even at tourist-facing establishments — this is not standard practice anywhere in the UK. Card payment (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, contactless) is near-universal at shops, restaurants, and major attractions in London. Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted. Carry £20–£40 in cash for market stalls, small independent cafés, and vendors at Portobello Road and Borough Market who may not accept cards. ATMs are available at London Fenchurch Street station () upon arrival in Central London. Use bank-branded ATMs (Barclays, Lloyds, NatWest, HSBC) to avoid non-bank ATM surcharges of £1.75–£3.00 per transaction. Near Tilbury Town station () there are limited ATM options — withdraw cash in London rather than relying on local ATMs near the port. VAT refund: The UK's VAT Retail Export Scheme for overseas visitors was abolished on January 1, 2021. U.S. cruise passengers are no longer entitled to VAT refunds on purchases taken out of the UK. Confirm this with any retailer who suggests otherwise.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi is available at the London International Cruise Terminal; confirm availability and access details at the terminal desk on embarkation day as this can vary by operator. The c2c train between Tilbury Town and London Fenchurch Street has variable mobile signal, particularly in the initial stretch through Essex — do not rely on real-time navigation during the train journey. London Fenchurch Street station and all of Central London have strong 4G/5G coverage across all major UK networks. Uber and other rideshare apps function reliably throughout Central London with no confirmed dead zones in tourist areas. Near Tilbury Town station, mobile coverage is adequate but rideshare availability is limited — taxis are the more reliable option for the short transfer from Tilbury Town station to the cruise terminal. UK SIM cards are available at major London stations and high street shops including EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three stores. Fenchurch Street is a smaller terminus and may not have a network retail store directly at the station — you should confirm SIM availability before your visit or purchase at a nearby high street. Pay-as-you-go SIM costs approximately £10–£15 for a data-inclusive starter package; confirm current pricing from the provider directly as this changes regularly.
Photography restrictions
Tower of London: Photography is permitted in most outdoor areas. Flash photography and tripods may be restricted in specific interior galleries — posted notices at each gallery entrance confirm current rules. No photography is permitted during the Ceremony of the Keys (evening ceremony, not accessible on a standard port day). Westminster Abbey: Photography is restricted. No photography is permitted inside the Abbey during services or in certain areas of the nave. Check posted signs at the entrance. St. Paul's Cathedral: Photography is permitted in the nave. Flash photography is prohibited in all interior areas. No photography during services. Buckingham Palace and the Palace forecourt (public areas): Photography from public areas outside the gates is unrestricted. Photography of active military personnel or security operations at any royal palace should be avoided. Houses of Parliament and the Palace of Westminster exterior: Photography from public streets is unrestricted. Aerial photography (drones) is prohibited over Central London without authorization. No confirmed penalties specific to tourist photography at any of the above sites beyond potential removal from the premises for non-compliance with posted rules.
Dress codes
Westminster Abbey: Shoulders and knees must be covered. No sleeveless tops, shorts, or short skirts. Passengers arriving in beach attire will be denied entry. Cover-ups are not provided at the entrance — come prepared or purchase a scarf nearby. St. Paul's Cathedral: Smart casual dress expected. Shorts and sleeveless tops are discouraged and entry may be refused at staff discretion. No hat to be worn inside. Buckingham Palace State Rooms (when open, typically August–September): Smart dress is expected; beach attire and flip-flops are not appropriate. Tower of London: No dress code restrictions on entry — casual attire including shorts is acceptable. All religious sites including churches visited en route: Covered shoulders and knees are expected as a baseline. If your port day includes any cathedral, abbey, or historic church visit, carry a scarf or light layer to cover up — this is a practical requirement, not optional advice.
Closures & pre-booking
Tower of London (): Open daily. Timed-entry tickets are strongly recommended and can be booked via the Historic Royal Palaces website. During peak summer, walk-up tickets frequently sell out by late morning. You will need your visit date and preferred arrival time slot to book. Westminster Abbey (): Closed to tourists on Sundays (open for worship only). Check seasonal opening hours at the Westminster Abbey official website before your visit. St. Paul's Cathedral (): Closed to tourists on Sundays. Borough Market (): Open Monday–Saturday; closed Sundays. Full market trading days are Thursday–Saturday. Portobello Road Antique Market (): Antique dealers operate primarily on Saturdays. Clothing and general market stalls operate Friday–Saturday. If your port day is not a Saturday, the antique section will be largely closed. British Museum (): Free admission; no booking required for general entry, but specific exhibitions require advance timed tickets. Confirm current requirements at the British Museum website. UK Public Holidays: When port day falls on a UK bank holiday, many smaller independent shops and some attractions operate reduced hours or close. You should confirm hours for any specific attraction on your intended visit date.
Pier Runner Protocol
If you believe you may miss the ship at Tilbury: The ship will not wait for passengers on independent tours or self-arranged transport. It may hold for passengers booked on the cruise line's own shore excursions — confirm this policy at the shore excursions desk before going ashore. The port agent contact for London Tilbury is not confirmed from a live source at the time of writing. You should locate the cruise line's port agent contact before going ashore — ask at the ship's shore excursions desk. If the ship departs without you: You are responsible for all costs of traveling to rejoin the vessel at its next port of call. The nearest major international airport is London Heathrow Airport (), approximately 1.5–2 hours from Tilbury by road or via public transport. London Gatwick Airport () is an alternative approximately 1.5 hours away. St Pancras International station () provides Eurostar connections to Paris and Brussels if the ship's next port is a Northern European destination. Travel insurance covering missed ship departure is strongly recommended for any independent excursion. LAST SHIP WARNING — RETURN JOURNEY FROM CENTRAL LONDON: The minimum realistic return journey from Central London to the ship is as follows: Allow 10 minutes to walk or transfer to London Fenchurch Street station; 45 minutes on the c2c train to Tilbury Town station; 10–15 minutes by taxi from Tilbury Town station to the terminal (£8–£10; do not rely on walking — the route is partially without footpaths and takes 15–20 minutes minimum with luggage); 10–15 minutes for terminal re-boarding security. Total minimum return time: approximately 75–85 minutes from departure from Central London to cleared security at the gangway. Add a personal buffer of at least 30–45 minutes beyond this minimum. Recommended personal cutoff from Central London: no later than 2.5 hours before All Aboard. Risk factors: c2c train delays occur and there is no alternative fast rail route to the terminal; taxi supply at Tilbury Town is limited and surge conditions can occur when multiple passengers arrive simultaneously; do not attempt to walk from Tilbury Town station with luggage. Build your personal All Aboard countdown from this information, not from the published schedule alone. The published All Aboard time is the ship's deadline, not yours.
Medical & Safety
Nearest hospital
The nearest hospital with an emergency department to the London International Cruise Terminal at Tilbury is Basildon University Hospital, Nethermayne, Basildon, Essex SS16 5NL (). This is approximately 7–9 miles (11.3–14.5 km) from the Tilbury terminal by road, with an estimated journey time of 15–25 minutes by taxi depending on traffic. A second option is Orsett Hospital (minor injuries only, not a full emergency department), Rowley Road, Orsett, Grays, Essex RM16 3EU (), approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) from the terminal. For life-threatening emergencies, call 999 (UK emergency number). For non-emergency medical advice in the UK, call NHS 111. You should confirm current emergency department status and opening hours for both facilities before your visit, as NHS service configurations change.
Nearest pharmacy
The nearest pharmacy to the Tilbury cruise terminal is Boots Pharmacy, 29 King Street, Grays, Essex RM17 6HR (), located in Grays town centre approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) from the terminal. Standard stock includes seasickness medication (Kwells, Stugeron), sunscreen, paracetamol, ibuprofen, antihistamines, plasters, and basic first aid supplies. Typical weekday opening hours for Boots in Grays are Monday–Saturday approximately 08:30–17:30. Sunday hours are reduced, typically 10:00–16:00. Hours vary and you should confirm current opening times directly with the branch before going ashore. Additional pharmacy options are available in Grays High Street and near Tilbury Town. The UK emergency telephone number for all emergencies is 999. NHS non-emergency medical advice: call 111.
Petty crime patterns
In Central London, pickpocketing is the primary petty crime risk for cruise passengers. Confirmed high-risk areas include the London Underground (particularly on crowded Tube carriages and at busy interchange stations including Bank, Liverpool Street, and King's Cross), Oxford Street (particularly around the Oxford Circus area), Covent Garden market, and tourist queues at the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. Common distraction tactics include staged bumping, dropped item distractions, and individuals offering unsolicited assistance with Oyster card machines at Tube station barriers. Wear bags across the body and in front of you; keep phones out of sight when not in use; do not display expensive camera equipment in crowded areas. At Tilbury terminal and Tilbury Town station specifically, no confirmed pattern of targeted tourist crime has been identified from live sources at the time of writing, but standard awareness applies in any port area. Report crimes to the Metropolitan Police via 101 (non-emergency) or 999 (emergency).
Returning to Your Ship
Back to Ship — Critical Timing Info
Missing ship departure means being stranded at port. Review the warnings below and plan your return time carefully.
Final Departure Warning
Leave no later than If your All Aboard time is, for example, 17:00, passengers at the farthest practical destination (Trafalgar Square / West End, approximately 27 miles (43.5 km)) must depart no later than 14:30–14:45 to make All Aboard safely. Passengers at central London attractions (Tower of London / Greenwich) must depart no later than 15:00–15:15. Passengers using only local destinations (Lakeside, Tilbury Fort) must depart no later than 16:00. These departure times assume normal traffic and rail conditions. Apply the congestion buffer on multi-ship days.
- Leg 1 — Trafalgar Square/West End to Charing Cross or Embankment Underground station: 5–8 minutes on foot
- Leg 2 — Underground (District or Circle line) west to east, Embankment to Tower Hill: 10–12 minutes
- Leg 3 — Walk Tower Hill station to London Fenchurch Street: 5–8 minutes
- Leg 4 — Wait for next C2C departure (trains run approximately every 30 minutes — factor in wait time): 0–30 minutes
- Leg 5 — C2C train Fenchurch Street to Tilbury Town: 40–45 minutes
- Leg 6 — Taxi from Tilbury Town Station to terminal forecourt: 5–10 minutes (or walk 20 minutes — not recommended with time pressure)
- Leg 7 — Re-boarding security queue and gangway processing at terminal: 15–20 minutes
- TOTAL MINIMUM RETURN TIME from West End to ship: 80–133 minutes depending on train wait. Budget 2 hours 15 minutes minimum from Trafalgar Square to be safely aboard.
- RECOMMENDED PERSONAL BUFFER: Add 30 minutes beyond your calculated minimum. Depart central London no later than 2 hours 45 minutes before All Aboard if coming from the West End.
- PORT-SPECIFIC RISK FACTORS: C2C train frequency is approximately every 30 minutes — missing one train adds 30 minutes with no recovery option. Tilbury Town Station taxi supply is limited and not guaranteed — pre-book your return taxi in advance. Terminal forecourt congestion on multi-ship days can add 15–20 minutes to re-boarding queues. There is no tender risk at this port — ships dock directly — but the industrial port road between the station and the terminal means you cannot walk back quickly in an emergency without a vehicle.
Build your personal All Aboard countdown from this information, not from the published schedule alone. The published All Aboard time is the ship's deadline, not yours.
Build your personal All Aboard countdown from this information, not from the published schedule alone. The published All Aboard time is the ship's deadline, not yours.