Starts boarding 30 to 60 minutes before the stated start time on your ticket or voucher. When it is really busy and literally hundreds are boarding it can take quite a while for a cursory security check, ticket check etc. Also, they try to pre sell bar drinks before you get on. Anyway, allow at least 15 minutes before scheduled time.
They told me there would be complimentary 15 minutes of free boarding time prior to cast off. People were able to get on a bit before that time. We had about 80 people with us at the event so 15 mins was plenty. If you anticipate you will need more you could ask for it up front. If you miss your cast off time it can impede your ability to get through the levy locks and on to the lake in a timely fashion. So have people there early and on time.
Your ticket should start your board time. It usually is 30 minutes before take off.
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