While I'm waiting for the online application result, I cannot help looking for backup option in case online application takes too long for us to make our cruise trip. I read the following on NY consulate website. Does anyone have experience with in-person application? How long will it take for the consulate to return the passports? Processing time says 38 days for NY office. Just can't believe it would take that long. I missed the old times that you can walk in and get your passport back the next day 
In-person submissions:
Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
except during Statutory Holiday (which may differ from local holidays).
Please note the following:
Service will be provided to the first 100 applicants.
Each adult applicant must be present in order to submit an application.
Applications for minor children may be submitted by the child’s parent or legal guardian providing proof of relation including: birth certificate of the child and related documentation.
We will review and assess your application based on information available in your application, usually without an interview or requesting for additional/missing documents. It is your responsibility to provide documents to support your application.
To make an enquiry on an application, please use the Case Specific Enquiry Form. For general enquiries, please consult our websites at www.canadainternational.gc.ca or www.cic.gc.ca. Please note that the visa office does not accept or respond to telephone enquiries and will not respond to requests for case status if the application is within normal processing times or the information is available on our websites.
Passports and original documents will not be returned in person. All passports and documents will be returned by mail. The visa office will return passports to addresses in the USA or Canada only.
Building Security: All persons entering the visa office must pass through a metal detector and submit to a visual check of handbags, backpacks, etc. The Consulate General of Canada reserves the right to prohibit entry of anyone who fails to comply with the screening process.
In-person submissions:
Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
except during Statutory Holiday (which may differ from local holidays).
Please note the following:
Service will be provided to the first 100 applicants.
Each adult applicant must be present in order to submit an application.
Applications for minor children may be submitted by the child’s parent or legal guardian providing proof of relation including: birth certificate of the child and related documentation.
We will review and assess your application based on information available in your application, usually without an interview or requesting for additional/missing documents. It is your responsibility to provide documents to support your application.
To make an enquiry on an application, please use the Case Specific Enquiry Form. For general enquiries, please consult our websites at www.canadainternational.gc.ca or www.cic.gc.ca. Please note that the visa office does not accept or respond to telephone enquiries and will not respond to requests for case status if the application is within normal processing times or the information is available on our websites.
Passports and original documents will not be returned in person. All passports and documents will be returned by mail. The visa office will return passports to addresses in the USA or Canada only.
Building Security: All persons entering the visa office must pass through a metal detector and submit to a visual check of handbags, backpacks, etc. The Consulate General of Canada reserves the right to prohibit entry of anyone who fails to comply with the screening process.
