Are cruises safe: health and safety risks on cruise ships

While cruises are generally considered safe, it’s important to understand and prepare for potential health and safety risks that come with cruise travel. Proactive planning and being prepared can help you better manage challenges and fully enjoy your cruise holiday. Our cruise safety tips will guide you through common risks on cruise ships and ways to address them.

Illness and spreading germs

With thousands of people in close quarters, cruise ships can be a hotspot for germs. To reduce the risk of illness:

• Let the on-board doctor know you’re unwell and seek treatment so you don’t spread your sickness to other passengers.

• Wash your hands with soap and water regularly, especially before meals, and carry hand sanitiser for moments when hand washing isn’t possible.

• Avoid touching your face to reduce the risk of transferring germs.

Food poisoning and gastro

Buffet-style dining can lead to Norovirus outbreaks and gastro-related illnesses. One sick passenger can turn your floating oasis into a buoyant germ incubator. Follow these cruise ship safety tips to avoid foodborne illnesses:

• Use hand sanitiser before handling shared serving utensils.

• Opt for freshly prepared hot meals and avoid items left sitting out.

• Stick to bottled water if you’re unsure about the water quality on-board.

Motion sickness

Rocky seas can make cruise travel challenging for those prone to motion sickness. Tips to alleviate motion sickness symptoms include:

• Remedies like ginger tablets or over-the-counter motion sickness tablets are effective cruise medicine.

• Sitting in the middle of the ship, facing forward, and getting fresh air can reduce symptoms.

• Cabins located further from the centre of the ship may be rockier and heighten sea sickness so choose a cabin in the middle of the ship for stability.

• Using handrails and walking cautiously along stairs and decks to prevent accidents during rough conditions.

Cabin confinement

Cabin size and location can impact your comfort during your cruise travel. Keep the following in mind:

• Internal cabins may make you feel claustrophobic, so book a cabin with a window or balcony for extra space and natural light.

• Ensure adequate room for all travellers to avoid feeling cramped.

• Spend time in communal spaces like lounges or decks to reduce feelings of confinement.

Slippery surfaces

Wet decks and tiled areas around pools, spilled drinks at the bar and sea spray can be hazardous, particularly for senior travellers. Avoid slips by:

• Wearing slip-resistant footwear with good grip and rubber soles.

• Using walking aids if needed and taking extra caution in wet areas.

• Keeping a firm grip on handrails when navigating stairs or ramps.

Theft

While cruises are generally safe, theft can occur anywhere, even on a cruise ship. So, it’s essential to practice safety and security measures:

• Keep valuables in your cabin’s safe with the cabin door locked at all times.

• Rethink the need for your laptop and expensive jewellery on your cruise and consider taking out cruise travel insurance with cover for luggage and personal effects and check if you can specify high-value items and if so, what specified high value items you can include cover for, in your travel insurance policy.

• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Natural disasters

Weather events like cyclones can impact your cruise travel. Stay informed and follow these tips for staying safe in the event of natural disasters:

• Listen closely to the ship’s crew for guidance during emergency situations.

• Attend the muster drill and familiarise yourself with your muster station and evacuation procedures.

• Avoid risky areas like exposed decks and balconies, and follow instructions to stay in designated safe zones.

Before you go: preparing for a cruise

Planning ahead can help you prepare for unexpected situations and ensures you can make the most of your cruise trip.

Consulting your doctor

Before setting off on your cruise travel, consult your doctor to ensure you're ready for the trip:

• Share your travel plans and discuss any necessary vaccinations or medications you might need for your cruise destinations.

• If you have ongoing health conditions, ask your doctor about obtaining prescriptions and carrying medical documentation.

• For seniors, this visit is especially important to address fitness, mobility needs, and ongoing treatments to take measures for a worry-free trip.

Medical considerations for seniors

When consulting your doctor, consider these vital questions before you book your cruise:

• Are you physically fit for the trip? Consider the activities you will participate in on your cruise, including on shore excursions.

• Do you need regular medical treatment? Make sure your doctor prescribes enough medication for the duration of your cruise.

• Will mobility assistance be necessary? Consider if you need any assistive technology.

Read our health and safety guide for seniors for more tips for senior travellers.

Medication to take on cruise

While cruise ships have on-board chemists, it’s wise to bring your own medication as the ship may not have the medication you require:

• Pack sea sickness tablets, essential medications and stick to your medicine schedule to avoid health disruptions.

• Check with your doctor what medications you will need and make sure you are prepared!

Packing a first-aid kit

Although ships have medical care available, a personal first-aid kit is a smart backup. Include:

• Pain relief

• Remedies for seasickness

• Antibacterial wipes

• Bandages

• Band-aids

• Thermometer

• Insect repellent

• Sunscreen

Vaccinations and immunisations

Check if your travel destinations require specific vaccines. Staying current with immunisations may help you remain protected against many of those common illnesses or diseases throughout your voyage.

Follow these tips:

• Ask your doctor about necessary vaccinations, particularly for diseases prevalent in ports of call as some countries have strict health policies and require all passengers disembarking to have adequate proof of vaccination.

• If you plan to be eating meals on shore excursions, make sure you’re up to date with vaccinations such as Hepatitis A and influenza, before you travel.

Avoiding cold and flu

Stay healthy on-board by taking a few simple precautions including the following:

• Visit your doctor for a flu shot before you travel, particularly if you’re a senior.

• Take a course of vitamins at least four weeks before you travel and continue taking them while you’re on the ship.

• Wash your hands before every meal to minimise the risk of infection and use sanitiser.

• Avoid sharing drinks or utensils.

• Stay hydrated and get enough rest.

Taking out travel insurance for cruises

Consider taking out travel insurance for cruising. Fast Cover’s cruise travel insurance allows you to add cruise cover to your travel insurance policy at the time of purchase if you will be travelling on a cruise ship in:

• Australian waters, the New Zealand or the South Pacific Region for 1 night or more, or

• Asia, Europe or Worldwide Regions for 4 nights or more.

You won’t need to take out cruise cover for river cruises.

Depending on the policy chosen, cover may be available under our policy benefits including overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses, medical evacuation and repatriation expenses, trip cancellation expenses, luggage and personal effects and more to help cover you in case of unexpected emergencies on-board the cruise ship and during onshore excursions.

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits apply. Consider the PDS before deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

On-board health and hygiene tips for cruises

By taking simple health and hygiene precautions, you can take steps to help avoid common issues faced on-board. Follow these effective cruise ship safety tips to maintain on-board health and hygiene.

Hand hygiene

• Wash your hands often with soap and water to minimize the spread of germs.

• When handwashing isn’t an option, use a sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Staying hydrated

• Limiting alcohol consumption can help prevent dehydration.

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. This is particularly important during shore excursions or hot weather.

Food safety

• Use serving utensils at buffets rather than touching food directly.

• Make sure hot dishes are served steaming and cold items remain chilled.

• Avoid eating foods left out for extended periods.

• If you’re trying local dishes during shore excursions, ensure the food complies with health and safety standards to avoid digestive issues.

Alcohol consumption

• Alcohol is a fun part of cruising for many, but moderation is key to staying safe on a cruise.

• Overindulging can raise the risk of accidents or medical issues, and claims relating to excessive drinking are generally unlikely to be covered under travel insurance policies.

• Always remember to stay alert and never accept drinks from strangers.

Tips for staying safe on-board the cruise ship

Knowing cruise ship safety tips is key to enjoying a stress-free and secure holiday. By understanding how to stay safe on a cruise, you can prioritise your safety and get on with enjoying your trip.

Familiarising yourself with the ship

Learn the ship’s layout as soon as you board. Locate emergency exits, muster stations, and safety equipment. Participate in the mandatory safety drill and read the safety instructions in your cabin. Knowing what to do in potential emergency situations ensures you’re fully prepared if needed.

Personal safety

Keep your belongings secured and always be conscious of your surroundings. Avoid risky behaviour such as climbing railings or engaging in rough play near water. Opt for non-slip footwear to stay safe while on deck, especially during rough seas. These simple safety and security practices can prevent accidents on board.

Cabin safety

Always ensure your cabin doors are locked when inside or away. Store valuables in the safe and familiarise yourself with the nearest fire exits. For cabins with a balcony, remember to keep the door locked when not in use, and never lean or climb on railings. These steps help you maintain safety and security in your personal space.

Taking care of your luggage on a cruise

Label your belongings with clear identification, including your name and a contact number. Consider using locks or luggage straps for added protection. Upon boarding, confirm that your luggage is delivered to your cabin. Valuable items should remain in your carry-on bag when possible.

Taking money on a cruise

When taking money on a cruise, bring limited cash for shore excursions and rely on credit or pre-paid travel cards for purchases. Keep cash, cards, and wallets in a cabin safe when not in use, and split money across secure locations to minimise loss risks.

Reporting concerns

If you come across anything suspicious, such as an unlocked door or safety hazard, report it to the crew immediately. They’re trained to address safety and security concerns. By alerting them, you help maintain a safer environment for everyone on board.

On-board activities

Many cruise lines offer themed cruises such as Christmas cruises and exciting activities, but it’s important to prioritise safety. Follow instructions provided by staff, use appropriate safety gear, and avoid reckless behaviour during activities like swimming, climbing, or navigating crowded areas. Caution ensures that all passengers can participate safely.

Falling overboard on a moving ship

Falling overboard is rare but it can happen. Here are 10 tips to avoid falling overboard on a cruise ship:

1. Never sit, lean or climb the railings.

2. Handle alcohol responsibly.

3. Always supervise children.

4. Wear non-slip shoes for added safety.

5. Refrain from risky behaviour or horseplay.

6. Be extra cautious during foggy or rough weather.

7. Be mindful of high winds or slippery surfaces on the deck.

8. Use handrails when walking on decks.

9. Follow crew instructions during emergency drills.

10. Stick to designated safe zones on decks.

On-board cruise safety tips for families

Knowing key safety tips for families on cruise ships is crucial for a relaxing and secure holiday. By taking proactive steps, you can relax knowing you have taken measures to ensure everyone, especially young children, enjoys a worry-free experience on board.

Pool safety

Pools are popular family spots, but they require special attention. Always supervise children at the pool and follow the ship’s posted safety rules. Younger kids should use floatation devices. To prevent accidents, remind your family to avoid running near the pool and use non-slip footwear.

Sun exposure

The sun can be harsh on the high seas so protect yourself and your children from its rays.

Bring a wide-brimmed sun hat, sunglasses and enough sunscreen to apply regularly.

Restricted areas

Ships feature restricted areas designed for operational or crew use.

Remind family members not to enter these zones and to observe signage found throughout the ship.

Visibility at night

Cruise ships are well-lit, but visibility at night can still be tricky. Equip children with small torches or glow sticks for added visibility and always accompany young ones. Stick to marked and public areas of the ship after dark to ensure your family’s safety.

Electrical outlets

Keep your family safe by ensuring cabin electrical outlets are used responsibly. Travelling with socket covers can help protect toddlers. Avoid overloading outlets with appliances and teach children to steer clear of tampering with cords or plugs.

On-shore cruise excursion safety tips

Exploring ports of call is an exciting part of any cruise, but it’s important to know and follow shore excursion safety tips. Preparation is key to creating memorable and safe experiences for your family.

Researching excursions and activities

Select tours provided by your cruise line or established tour operators. Look into each activity’s risks to confirm they are suitable for your family. For example, children might enjoy low-adventure options like beach days or cultural tours over riskier activities like zip-lining.

Staying aware

Be mindful of your surroundings while exploring. Secure personal belongings to avoid theft and avoid isolated areas that could present risks. If visiting bustling tourist destinations, keep an eye on your family and watch out for pickpockets.

Health precautions on shore

Take measures to prevent health issues by drinking bottled water and eating only at reputable establishments. Bring insect repellent to avoid bites in tropical destinations and reapply sunscreen throughout the day to guard against excessive sun exposure. Family health is a key factor in having a safe trip.

Obeying local laws

While exploring, respect local customs and laws. If you become injured while breaking the law, there are various conditions and exclusions that may apply which means you may not be covered under your cruise travel insurance policy. Obeying laws and cultural norms aids in keeping your excursions trouble-free.

Safety tips for emergency situations on a cruise ship

Knowing key emergency tips for cruise ships can make all the difference in a critical moment. By being prepared and informed, you help ensure a safe experience for yourself and others.

Understanding emergency signals

Familiarising yourself with cruise ship emergency signals is essential. These signals may warn of fire, evacuations, or other emergencies. Pay close attention to announcements from the crew to remain updated on critical situations.

Following crew instructions

The crew is highly trained to manage cruise ship emergencies. Listen carefully and follow their guidance without hesitation during alarms or evacuations. Their instructions are designed to lead you to safety quickly, ensuring a smooth process for everyone on board.

Muster drills

Participate actively in mandatory cruise ship muster drills at the start of your trip. These safety exercises teach you essential emergency procedures, such as reaching your muster station, wearing life jackets, and understanding evacuation routes.

What to do in a medical emergency on a cruise

Medical issues can arise unexpectedly and knowing what to do in a cruise medical emergency could save time and reduce risks.

Let the crew know you are unwell

If you feel unwell or experience symptoms of illnesses like norovirus on a cruise ship, notify the crew immediately. They may recommend cabin confinement to limit infection spread and protect fellow passengers. Prompt reporting supports both your recovery and on-board health measures.

Seek medical treatment immediately

Always travel with essential medication and take it as needed. For health concerns, visit the ship’s on-board doctor or pharmacy. The crew is prepared to offer advice or arrange treatment for common or serious conditions. Swift action is key to addressing medical needs while on a cruise.

Call your travel insurance company’s medical emergency assistance team

For severe situations, contact your travel insurance provider’s emergency assistance team.

If you have a policy with Fast Cover and require medical evacuation, you MUST contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team to organise this, or the Australian Maritime Safety Authority to arrange the evacuation using the contact details below. A helicopter or seaplane company should NOT be contacted directly prior to speaking to Fast Cover Emergency Assistance. Failure to do so may result in your claim being unpaid.

• Fast Cover Emergency Assistance Team:

  • In Australia: 02 8320 7999

  • Overseas: +61 2 8320 7999

• Australian Maritime Safety Authority: 1800 641 792 / +61 2 6230 6811

Please note eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits apply. Consider the PDS before deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

What to do in a non-medical emergency on a cruise

Non-medical emergencies, like severe storms or other natural events, require you to prepare and understand safety measures. Familiarising yourself with cruise safety helps you respond safely and stay organised during these situations.

Natural disasters

Natural disasters like cyclones can disrupt travel plans and create challenges for passengers.

Pay close attention during muster drills, locate emergency exits, and understand evacuation procedures outlined by the crew.

Tidal waves and storms

Stormy seas or tidal waves may require passengers to remain indoors.

Following cruise ship safety tips, stay in your cabin, avoid stepping onto slippery decks, and listen to official ship announcements for further guidance. These simple steps can help keep you safe during adverse weather.

Sinking ship

Though extremely rare, sinking ships require immediate action. The standard evacuation signal is seven short horn blasts followed by one long blast. If you hear this, it’s time to evacuate.

• Stay calm and remember your muster drill location

• Avoid the elevators as electrical systems may fail

• Use handrails and watch for objects that may be loose

• Put your life jacket on and get to the lifeboats as quickly as possible

Important emergency contact information for cruise holidays

Including emergency contact information as part of your cruise ship checklist is vital. Ensure you carry the cruise line's emergency numbers, local maritime authority details specific to your destinations, and contacts for your travel insurance assistance team. Quickly accessing this information can make a significant difference in responding to emergencies.

Make sure to save the following emergency contact details to have on hand during your cruise holiday.

• Fast Cover Emergency Assistance Team:

  • In Australia: 02 8320 7999

  • Overseas: +61 2 8320 7999

• Australian Maritime Safety Authority: 1800 641 792 / +61 2 6230 6811

• Smartraveller Emergency Consular Contact

• Australian Embassies around the world

• The Australian Government provides 24-hour consular assistance:

  • +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas

  • +61 421 269 080 for SMS

Post-cruise health

Safeguarding your health doesn’t end when the cruise is over. Monitoring your condition after your trip helps address any potential issues promptly.

Monitoring your health

Be vigilant about symptoms like fever or digestive issues and seek medical care if needed. Inform your doctor about recent cruise travel and any destinations that may have posed health risks. Carrying appropriate cruise medicine during and after your trip can help manage minor issues effectively.

Reporting illnesses

Your role in public health investigations, such as those involving outbreaks of illness, ensures the safety of future travellers. Timely reporting of symptoms or sharing your travel details can contribute to important preventive measures aboard cruise ships.

Enjoying a safe and healthy cruise

Careful preparation is the foundation for an unforgettable cruise experience. By following important advice for cruise ship travel and planning ahead, you can enjoy peace of mind as you set sail. Whether you’re focused on staying safe on a cruise or building a complete cruise ship checklist, taking proactive steps will help ensure a smooth and memorable vacation.