In response to review, Zeb says ...

Tendering is determined by the size of the ship, the depth of the water at the dock and the winds. I don't care for tendering, either as it slows getting to the port. I also dislike sitting in the tender boat waiting for it to fill with passengers. For obvious reasons they pack everyone in until every seat is taken. There is no A/C so on hot days, it is less pleasant. It just rocks. It is also difficult for handicap passengers and those who have mobility problems. Luckily I am not prone to seasickness nor have mobility problems. You can usually find out ahead of time if tendering is going to happen at any particular port of call.