Is this new? PITA Onboard Immigration Inspection at Key West

I’m on my third Caribbean cruise that starts and ends at Fort Lauderdale, but the first that includes another American port. We will be in Key West tomorrow and found out last night about this onboard immigration inspection.

For those who booked excursions, it’s just a few minutes of extra procedures before the excursion starts.

For those who plan to explore on their own or remain on the ship, it’s a pain in the ass. You’re on Deck 1 and wanted to sleep in? Too bad, report at 8:45. You’re on Deck 11 and wanted an early start exploring Key West on your own? You won’t be leaving the ship until after 10:30.

This requirement makes it less likely that I will book future itineraries that include American ports. Has this inspection procedure always been a thing, or is it new with the change of government?

I’m on my third Caribbean cruise that starts and ends at Fort Lauderdale, but the first that includes another American port. We will be in Key West tomorrow and found out last night about this onboard immigration inspection.

For those who booked excursions, it’s just a few minutes of extra procedures before the excursion starts.

For those who plan to explore on their own or remain on the ship, it’s a pain in the ass. You’re on Deck 1 and wanted to sleep in? Too bad, report at 8:45. You’re on Deck 11 and wanted an early start exploring Key West on your own? You won’t be leaving the ship until after 10:30.

This requirement makes it less likely that I will book future itineraries that include American ports. Has this inspection procedure always been a thing, or is it new with the change of government?