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A family cruise can be a fun and relaxing way to spend time together, but it’s important to keep safety in mind while onboard. From staying aware of your surroundings to following safety procedures in the event of an emergency, we are sharing some tips for staying safe while on a cruise with your family.
Cruise Safety 101: Tips for the Whole Family
- Familiarize Yourself with the Ship:
When we first get on the ship, I find it helpful to take a little time as a family to explore the ship and locate the emergency exits, lifeboats, and safety equipment. Because I have some older kids that are usually exploring on their own, I feel a bit more peace of mind knowing that they are aware of these locations in case of an emergency. - Stay Aware of Your Surroundings:
It’s important to have a conversation about being mindful of your surroundings and keeping an eye out for any potential safety hazards. Letting everyone know that if they notice anything that seems unsafe or suspicious, that they should report it to the ship’s crew. - Follow Safety Procedures:
Make sure that everyone is listening carefully to the safety briefing that is given at the beginning of your cruise and follow the safety procedures in the event of an emergency. This includes knowing where to go in the event of a fire, how to use a life jacket, and how to evacuate the ship if necessary. - Keep Valuables Secure:
Make sure to keep your valuables, such as passports and money, in a secure location, such as a safe in your cabin. When traveling off the ship, be cautious of pickpockets and keep your belongings close to you in crowded areas. - Stay Hydrated:
It’s important to stay hydrated while onboard, especially in warm climates. We like to bring insulated refillable water bottles with us on the ship to help with this. Making sure that everyone drinks plenty of water helps to avoid dehydration, headaches, crankiness, overheating, etc. - Use Caution Near Water:
The pool and other bodies of water on the ship can be fun for kids, but it’s important to use caution to prevent accidents. Make sure that your kids are aware of all pool rules, to help you with keeping them safe. Some pools can be a bit over crowded, people are often drinking and unfortunately accidents could happen so I find it best to always have an eye on your kids just to avoid any issues. - Use Sunscreen:
This is a given, but it is also good to have a reminder. When cruising you are often outside in the sun, in and out of water, and it can be easy to forget to protect your skin. This is your reminder to pack sunscreen and reapply every few hours. Everyone is happier without sunburns.
“Statistically, cruises are one of the safest forms of travel…”
Themaritimepost.com
Safety Tips for Off-Boat Excursions
When going on an off-ship excursion during a family cruise, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are some tips for staying safe while on excursions:
- Research the Excursion:
Before booking an excursion, research the company and read reviews from previous customers. Make sure the excursion is suitable for your family’s ages and abilities. - Use Reputable Companies:
Book excursions through reputable companies that have a good safety record. If possible, book through the cruise line, which will ensure that the excursion meets certain safety standards. - Follow the Guide’s Instructions:
Listen carefully to the guide’s instructions and follow any safety rules. For example, if you’re going on a hiking excursion, stay on the designated trail and don’t wander off on your own. - Stay Together:
Make sure that the whole family knows to stay together as a group. This is especially important in unfamiliar areas where you may not speak the language or know the customs. - Stay Aware of Your Surroundings:
Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for any potential safety hazards. If you notice anything that seems unsafe or suspicious, report it to your guide or the local authorities. - Be Prepared for the Weather:
Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the excursion, such as sunscreen, hats, and rain jackets. Check the weather forecast beforehand to make sure you’re prepared for any conditions. - Know Emergency Procedures:
Before going on the excursion, familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and make sure everyone in your family knows what to do in case of an emergency.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your family cruise is a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Remember to stay aware of your surroundings, follow safety procedures, do your research, and use caution when participating in activities on and off the ship and above all else have an amazing time!
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