Cruise vacations offer a remarkable way for families to explore multiple destinations while enjoying amenities and activities on board. However, safety remains a top priority, particularly when traveling with children.
With over 37.1 million passengers expected to board cruises next year (2025), understanding key safety practices can make the trip more enjoyable and secure for everyone. Knowing what to expect and taking a few proactive steps can significantly reduce potential risks. (1)
Read on as this guide covers essential tips to help families prepare and create a cruising experience that’s not only fun but also mindful of everyone’s well-being.
Prepare Your Pre-Trip Safety Essentials
Your safety journey starts before boarding the ship. So first, create a folder with copies of passports, travel insurance details, and emergency contacts. Store digital copies in your phone and share them with a trusted family member staying home.
Part of your essential contact list should include the contact details of a qualified New Jersey cruise ship injury attorney or similar local advocates since many major cruise lines operate from New Jersey ports and fall under specific maritime jurisdiction. They’re generally well-versed in the complex port regulations, federal maritime laws, and the particular procedures that apply to incidents in international waters.
While you’re hoping for a trouble-free vacation, having immediate access to legal expertise familiar with your departure point’s laws can prove invaluable if an incident occurs. For complete peace of mind, add contacts of your cruise line’s customer service and travel insurance provider, as well as emergency numbers for each port of call.
Select the Perfect Cabin Location
Booking the best cabin location can make a big difference in comfort and safety throughout your cruise. For families, a well-placed cabin can reduce motion discomfort and simplify getting around the ship. Mid-ship cabins on lower decks are often the most stable, making them a good choice for avoiding excess movement during rough seas. This location also provides easier access to essential areas like medical facilities and muster stations, which can be helpful in case of an emergency.
If you’re traveling with young children or elderly family members, consider booking cabins close to elevators—this reduces walking distances and helps everyone navigate the ship with less strain.
Master the Emergency Protocols and Drills
Every cruise ship holds a mandatory muster drill within the first 24 hours of departure to prepare passengers for emergencies. It shows you where to go and what to do in case of an evacuation, so all family members need to pay close attention and actively participate. Take notes during the drill, and make sure everyone knows the location of your designated muster station.
For children, consider turning these emergency procedures into a fun game to help them remember the steps more easily. Most kids retain information better when it’s part of a playful activity.
Protect Your Family’s Health Onboard
Cruise ships, with their close quarters and shared spaces, can sometimes make it easier for illnesses like norovirus to spread. In the first half of 2023 alone, the U.S. reported 13 norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships—the highest since 2012 and more than the total for the entire 2022. While modern cruise ships have advanced medical facilities, a few preventative measures can go a long way. (2)
To minimize the risk of contracting viruses, encourage everyone to wash their hands frequently, specifically before meals and after touching high-contact surfaces like railings, elevator buttons, and door handles. Carry hand sanitizer for times when handwashing isn’t possible, and try to avoid touching your face. Lastly, pack a small first-aid kit, necessary prescription medications, and motion sickness remedies so you’re ready to address minor health issues quickly.
Implement Pool and Water Safety Rules
With numerous pools and water attractions available on cruise ships, ensuring water safety should be a top priority for families. Drowning is a serious concern; approximately 400 children lose their lives each year due to drowning incidents in pools. (3)
To prevent such tragedies, it’s essential to supervise children closely, even when lifeguards are on duty. Establish a designated “water watcher” in your group who can keep a constant eye on the kids. Better yet, ensure your children have their own life jackets. Additionally, make sure to check depth markers and adhere to age restrictions for each pool and water feature.
Manage Food Safety and Allergies
Before you set sail, inform the cruise line about any food allergies so the staff can accommodate your needs. You may also consider reviewing menus ahead of time to identify suitable options and ask questions when dining at restaurants on board. Clearly communicating your dietary requirements in advance can significantly reduce the risk of food-related incidents, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy their meals with peace of mind.
Plan Safe Shore Excursions
Most cruise-related incidents occur during shore excursions, so it’s wise to take precautions. Consider booking excursions through the cruise line, as they adhere to verified safety standards and guarantee timely returns to the ship.
Always keep emergency contact information for the ship readily available in case you need assistance while on land. And for a smooth return, aim to be back at the port at least 60 minutes before the ship’s scheduled departure.
Key Takeaway
A safe cruise experience combines preparation, awareness, and common sense. By implementing these safety measures, you’ll create a secure environment for your family to fully enjoy the whole maritime adventure. Remember that safety creates a foundation for worry-free exploration and memorable experiences at sea.
References:
- “Number of ocean cruise passengers worldwide from 2009 to 2023, with a forecast until 2027”, Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/385445/number-of-passengers-of-the-cruise-industry-worldwide/
- “Norovirus Cases On Cruise Ships Skyrocket: Here’s Why—And How To Avoid Getting Sick”, Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/ariannajohnson/2023/07/13/norovirus-cases-on-cruise-ships-skyrocket-heres-why-and-how-to-avoid-getting-sick/
- “Nearly 400 children die yearly from drowning in pools and spas, report finds. Here’s how to keep your kids safe”, Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/keep-kids-safe-drowning-pools-spas/
Jessica has a flair for writing engaging blogs and articles. She enjoys reading and learning new things which enables her to write different topics and fields with ease. She also strives to break down complex concepts and make them easy for anybody to comprehend.
