Staying Safe on Your Next Cruise

Whether you are planning the vacation of a lifetime or your annual cruise, safety is a top priority. All cruise lines abide by the Safety of Life at Sea international rules, which cover security, fire safety, and other vital areas. Ships that sail to and from the United States must comply with the Centers of Disease Control’s Vessel Sanitation Program. These ships are also inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard regularly. 

Even with all of these measures in place, however, incidents can happen from time to time that could impact your safety. What can you do to have a safe cruise? 

Limit Alcohol Consumption 

Alcoholic drinks are abundantly available on cruise ships at all hours of the day and night. Between this and the fact that you do not have to drive home, it is easy to drink too much. However, over-consumption leads to poor decisions and risky behaviors. In addition, do not leave your drinks unattended, and do not allow strangers to buy you drinks. 

Safeguard Your Cabin

Never leave your cabin door or balcony door open. When you are in the cabin, use the deadbolt lock. Do not share your key card with anyone, and do not write your cabin number on your key card. From time to time, a crew member may need your cabin number. Otherwise, do not share your cabin number with the crew or passengers. Remember to secure your valuables in your room safe. 

Have a Buddy 

When you are outside your cabin, it is best to walk with a travel companion. This is particularly important later in the night when people may be inebriated and when the common areas and hallways may be less crowded. If you are cruising on your own, try to connect with a new friend as early in the cruise as possible. 

Meet Your Cabin Steward 

Typically, one cabin steward is assigned to a group of rooms, and he or she may have a few helpers. These are the people who enter your cabin to clean it and bring you various items upon request. Because these crew members spend a great deal of time in the hallway near your room, take time to meet them. Introduce them to everyone who will be staying in your room so that they know when someone is entering your room without an invitation. 

Avoid Carrying Cash on the Ship 

Generally, you can load your passenger card with cash, and this card will serve as your method of payment while on the ship. You should not need to carry cash on the ship, so keep it stored in the safe. When you depart on shore excursions, take enough cash for your day’s plans as well as a little extra for emergency situations. Avoid flashing your cash around on land. If you are traveling with other people, you could split your cash with them so that no one person is holding all of the money.

Onboard Hazards

Cruises are a safe way to travel, but like any large hotel, there are everyday hazards to be aware of. Slip and fall injuries, drownings, fires, and medical emergencies can happen at any time. Cruise lines have safety protocols in place, larger ships may even have medical staff on board and most ships even have protocols in case a death occurs on board. While you’d never want to spend your vacation recovering from an illness or injury, it can bring you peace of mind that the cruise line is ready to handle an emergency.

While cruises are safe and fun ways to travel and relax, there are instances when passenger safety is in jeopardy. These tips will help you avoid some of the more common dangers and have a safer and more enjoyable experience on the water.

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