With abundant cruise safety procedures, cruising is one of the safest modes of travel for your next vacation!
With incredible summertime weather finally upon us, you might be embarking on or considering a cruise in the near future. While cruising delivers one of the most distinctive and exciting travel experiences possible, did you know this vacationing method also holds the travel industry’s strongest safety record? It’s true! Cruise safety and the security of passengers and crew members is the main priority of any cruise line. In fact, cruise safety tips, standards and regulations are detailed by CLIA, the Cruise Lines International Association, an organization made of up 26 major North American cruise lines. Plus, many of these cruise lines have not only implemented CLIA’S standards but have exceeded the recommended procedures in order to keep you, your family, and crew members safe.
As with any vacation you are planning, it is always wise to research as much as possible regarding your modes of travel, destinations, etc. The same goes for cruising, and reviewing cruise safety tips before boarding your ship may ease any worries or questions you have so you can spend your time focusing on having fun! Here are some cruise safety tips and information you should be aware of before you set sail:
- Lifeboat Drills – In case of an unlikely emergency, all ships implement a mandatory lifeboat drill at the beginning of your journey. During this drill, you will learn your assigned meeting station, also known as a muster station, the location of life jackets and lifeboats, how to secure your lifejacket and proper evacuation procedures. These drills are either presented live or via a safety video. If you have any questions about your stateroom lifejackets or your designated lifeboat location, now is the perfect time to ask a crew member.
- Medical Facilities – Cruise lines take the physical health of its passengers and crew seriously, therefore implementing top-tier medical professionals from pediatricians to internal medicine physicians, nurses and other medical personnel onboard. The cruising industry also works alongside the CDC in order to help prevent and/or address medical emergencies that can occur on the ship. Rest assured, you will have access to medical professionals and resources aboard your ship should you need care. If you are traveling with medical issues, be sure to see your family physician before embarking on your next cruise adventure.
- Norovirus – Norovirus is a flu-like illness that affects the intestines and stomach. It is typically found in semi-contained environments such as hotels, dorms, hospitals, health-care facilities and cruise ships. Cruise lines establish numerous measures to keep Norovirus from occurring. You will notice a multitude of areas throughout your cruise ship that offer free hand sanitizing dispensaries. It is also encouraged that you wash your hands throughout the day and notify staff at the first sign of illness. While it is unlikely you will contract Norovirus on your trip, keep in mind this particular strain of illness only lasts a day or two.
- Children’s Programs – The safety of young passengers is also top priority among cruise lines. Programs have been established to entertain children in a safe location with age-appropriate activities by personnel who are qualified to work alongside those of young age. These children’s programs are extremely popular with parents as it allows them to enjoy adult activities while their children are safe and entertained.
Cruise safety tips, regulations and procedures are put into place to keep you and your family members safe during your vacation. Every year, the industry revamps and enhances guidelines and procedures in order to give passengers and crew members the most secure experience possible. To learn more about cruise safety statistics and industry safety standards, click here.
With more than 20 million people cruising each year, get ready to embark on one of the safest and most unique vacation experiences of your life! For more information about various cruise lines, itineraries and more, call the CruiseExperts today at 1-888-804-CRUISE (2784). Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and join our InnerCircle for exclusive offers and cruise news you can use! Also, check out our new Resource Center, where you can receive expert knowledge from us before your next cruise or cruisetour!