Germs Everywhere
With thousands of passengers in close quarters, cruise ships can be a breeding ground for germs. From buffet tongs to elevator buttons, everything gets touched by dozens—if not hundreds—of hands. Norovirus, the flu, and other bugs spread quickly in these environments.
How to Avoid It: Wash your hands often, especially before eating. Avoid touching your face and be mindful of high-touch surfaces like railings and shared utensils.
This content was created with the help of AI.
This content was created with the help of AI.
Buffet Beware: Food Safety Risks
Cruise buffets are packed with delicious options, but they can also be a hotspot for foodborne illnesses. Dishes that sit out too long, undercooked seafood, and improperly stored items can turn your meal into an unwanted adventure.
How to Avoid It: Choose freshly prepared meals and skip anything that looks like it’s been sitting too long. Be extra cautious with seafood, dairy-based dishes, and foods served at room temperature.
Motion Sickness: When the Waves Win
Some people love the gentle rocking of the ship, while others feel like they’re on a never-ending amusement park ride. Rough seas can turn even the smoothest sailing into an uncomfortable experience.
How to Avoid It: Book a cabin in the middle of the ship, where movement is less noticeable. Fresh air and keeping your eyes on the horizon can also help.
Slippery Decks and Tricky Stairways
Wet decks, crowded hallways, and unfamiliar layouts make falls one of the most common cruise ship injuries. A sudden wave or a misstep on a slippery surface can turn a fun day into an unfortunate accident.
How to Avoid It: Wear shoes with good grip, take your time on stairways, and be cautious near pools and outdoor decks.
Overcrowded Hot Tubs and Pools
Cruise ship hot tubs can be a relaxing escape, but when they’re packed with people, they can also be a breeding ground for bacteria. Poorly maintained pools can lead to skin and ear infections.
How to Avoid It: Stick to pools and spas during less crowded times. If the water looks cloudy or unclean, it’s best to skip it.
Shore Excursion Surprises
From snorkeling to zip-lining, cruise excursions are a great way to explore new places—but not all of them have the same safety standards as those back home.
How to Avoid It: Research excursions before booking. Choose reputable companies with good reviews, and avoid anything that seems rushed or disorganized.
Sunburn and Heat Exhaustion
The ocean breeze can make it easy to forget just how strong the sun is. Hours by the pool or on an island tour can leave you with a painful sunburn or even heatstroke.
How to Avoid It: Apply sunscreen regularly, wear a hat, and stay hydrated.
Sleep Disruptions and Noisy Cabins
Between engine noise, hallway chatter, and thin walls, cruise ship cabins aren’t always as quiet as you’d hope. Light sleepers may struggle with getting a full night’s rest.
How to Avoid It: Choose a cabin away from high-traffic areas like nightclubs, stairwells, and the engine room. Bringing earplugs or a white noise app can also help.
Unreliable Wi-Fi and Communication Issues
Cruise ship internet is often slow and expensive, making it difficult to check in with family or access important travel updates. In some cases, cell service may be nonexistent while at sea.
How to Avoid It: Download maps, entertainment, and important documents before boarding. Let family know when you’ll be out of contact, and use onboard messaging apps if available.
Hidden Costs and Unexpected Fees
Cruise vacations seem all-inclusive, but there are plenty of extra charges for drinks, excursions, specialty dining, and onboard activities. Some passengers end up with a surprise bill at the end of their trip.
How to Avoid It: Set a budget beforehand and check what’s included in your fare. Keep an eye on onboard spending, especially for drinks and excursions.