Princess Cruises is testing a new program for cruisers who are willing to pay, to get onboard early for a fee.

Being trialled onboard the Ruby Princess between March 1 and March 25, the test price stands at US$49 per cabin with all passengers in the room receiving the benefit.

Princess Cruises started testing on the March 17 sailing from Long Beach, California.

Guests who purchase the option can choose between early embarkation of disembarkation.

Princess Cruises posted on social media saying, “We’re currently running a pilot test on Ruby Princess for 3 voyages only. Guests with Princess Advance Boarding will be among the first to enjoy amenities onboard and access to book activities like Shore Excursions, Specialty Dining, and Sanctuary reservations.”

For Princess Elite, Platinum, Suite and Club Class Mini-Suite guests, they will be still given priority check in.

“Guests with Advance Boarding will use the Priority check-in lane and will board after Elite, Platinum, Suite, and Club Class Mini-Suite guests. Space is extremely limited and subject to availability. Available online up to three days before cruise.”

If the test is successful, the cruise line may roll it out to other ships.