The last few times I've flown with both Virgin and Emirates they have opened the gate early so that when you get to the gate it is open and everyone can board as they arrive at the gate. It avoided the unseemly rush that normally occurs when the FIDS indicate boarding and you get to the gate only to wait around for another 20 minutes. Air Canada also check your ticket when loading by seat row and turn those back that try to board out of sequence. The lady who does this is frequently an elderly harridan who brooks no argument, but it works.
On the beach