Booking Your Next Cruise: Safety Considerations

Taking a cruise is usually a safe experience. However, you should always take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Stories circulate about how cruise ships aren’t safe in international waters. However, this is the exception and not the rule.

All cruise ships operate under Safety of Life at Sea or SOLAS international rules. These laws regulate maritime security, fire regulations, and navigation and require cruise ships to assist other vessels in emergencies. Depending on the region the vessel is sailing in there may be other rules that apply. Cruise ships have a security officer and sensors and cameras in public areas. Here’s how to stay safe on your cruise.

Responsible Alcohol Use

Be responsible about consuming alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of making bad decisions and accidents. Never accept an alcoholic beverage from a stranger on a cruise. Avoiding beverage packages discourages overindulgence.

Keep Your Cabin Locked

Make sure your cabin is safe and secure by using locks and deadbolts if they’re available. Don’t share your cabin number with anyone you don’t know. Cabin numbers aren’t typically on cruise cards. Don’t write it on a sticky or the card. Anyone could have access to your cabin. Store valuables in the cabin safe and keep your balcony door locked when you aren’t in the cabin. Establish good relationships with cabin stewards. They’re an excellent security measure and provide help when you need it.

Prepare for Emergencies

You should pay close attention to the muster drill, which is commonly on the in-cabin TV. Although it’s tempting to let the video run while you’re unpacking, it’s essential to understand the signals for any emergency situation. Even if you frequently cruise, the information and process can vary between cruise lines. Part of the muster drill on the first day usually involves visiting your muster station. The station is where people meet in the event of an emergency. You should plan on two different routes to get to your muster station before an emergency occurs. You should watch for common hazards like slippery decks, lack of lifeguards, poor lighting or poorly maintained handrails and know what steps to take if you are injured on a ship.

Find a Buddy

When you’re traveling alone, it’s a good idea to rely on the buddy system. Most people enjoy making new friends and exploring with a group. Cruise lines usually host a meet-up for passengers traveling solo on the first day of the cruise. It’s always a good idea to pair up with other solo travelers for late-night activities, in less frequented areas of the ship, or shore excursions. 

Leave the Cash at Home

Carrying large amounts of cash isn’t advisable, especially on shore excursions. Onboard expenses are usually charged to the passenger’s cruise card, so a lot of cash isn’t necessary. However, you safely keep cash in your cabin safe or with the ship’s reception safe. It’s a good idea to only take the necessary amount of cash on shore trips. If you do, make sure to use a money belt for most of it, and only keep coins and small bills in your pockets. 

Onshore Excursions

Be smart when you’re exploring onshore. Thousands of people on cruises explore cultural, educational, and entertaining attractions each day without any incidents. You should be careful not to develop a false sense of security when you aren’t on the ship. Passengers in busy cruise ports are often the target for theft. You should only take what’s necessary. You should also be careful of strangers who offer assistance. If you have questions or feel uneasy, talk to your cruise ship escort or tour guide. If you explore on your own, make sure your cell phone is charged, always use a money belt, and have the emergency number of the cruise ship available. If you choose an independent tour company, do online research first and book your tour in advance. Be careful of tour vendors in the port even if they offer lower prices.

Your cruise should be memorable. By following these tips and precautions you’re likely to have a fun, stress-free cruise.

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