Pier runners: The wildest cruise-ship chase you didn't know existed

A pier runner is someone who frantically sprints down the wharf to catch the ship while other passengers cheer or heckle. To catch the free show, head to the top deck or your balcony around 30 minutes before departure.

In ports where people tend to drink at beach bars, there's a greater chance of pier running. Others get delayed in traffic or they forget the "all-aboard" time. My favourite story is a couple who left a note politely explaining they would need a few more hours to go shopping. They were outraged that the ship did not wait.

In most cases, cruise ships cannot wait for stragglers because it's very expensive to overstay the allocated timeslot. Some ports fine cruise lines by the minute. The cruise line may need to pay for extra services provided by dock workers or marine pilots.

If the ship needs to sail faster to reach the next port on time, the additional fuel can also cost thousands of dollars per hour.

The captain's priorities are punctuality and safety, especially when the weather or sea conditions are changing. Once a ship has moved, forget about it. It's not possible to slam on the brakes and quickly turn around.

To avoid the stress and humiliation of pier running, always double-check the all-aboard time (displayed at the exit). This is usually 30 or 60 minutes before departure, because they need to pull up the gangway, release the mooring ropes, and many other tasks.

Carry the daily newsletter ashore, as this contains phone numbers to call if you're running late.

Also bring your passport, credit card, cash, phone and medications, just in case you get stranded. Although a local port agent will assist, it's your responsibility (and expense) to catch up with the ship at the next port or go home.

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Most importantly, make sure your phone or watch are set on the same time as the ship. "Ship time" may be different to the real time, if your trip crosses multiple time zones.

On a European cruise, I met an Austrian man who mixed up the times in Germany. As we set sail, he texted me: "Missed the ship, hired car, driving home, so depressed."

That's no way to end a holiday. And no fun for those of us waiting to watch the pier runner show.

How big: 60 cabins, 120 guests