Stay Safe & Have Fun While Traveling
Cruises offer a unique blend of luxury, adventure and relaxation, all rolled into one floating resort. Whether you're sailing through the Caribbean or exploring the fjords of Norway, a cruise can be an unforgettable experience — but it’s also easy to make a few missteps that could turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. To make the most of your time at sea, here are 10 things you should never do on a cruise.
1. Ignore the Muster Drill
The muster drill is a mandatory safety exercise that teaches you what to do in case of an emergency. It might seem like a hassle, especially when you're excited to get the vacation started, but skipping it — or not paying attention — can put you and others at risk. Take it seriously; it’s literally designed to save lives.
2. Skip Travel Insurance
It’s easy to think nothing will go wrong, but travel insurance is a small price to pay for peace of mind. Medical emergencies, missed flights, lost luggage or itinerary changes can all disrupt your plans. Cruise ships may have medical staff, but treatment isn’t cheap — and if you need to be evacuated, costs can skyrocket. Always protect yourself with a comprehensive travel insurance policy.
3. Drink Too Much Alcohol
Most cruises offer drink packages or tempting tropical cocktails at every turn, but excessive drinking can quickly lead to dehydration, accidents or embarrassing situations. Remember, you're on a moving vessel, often with wet floors and staircases. Plus, alcohol can amplify seasickness. Enjoy yourself, but know your limits.
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4. Forget to Wash Your Hands Frequently
Cruise ships are closed environments, which means viruses like norovirus can spread rapidly. One of the easiest ways to protect yourself and others is by washing your hands frequently — especially before meals and after using the restroom. Many ships also have hand sanitizer stations throughout the ship. Use them liberally.
5. Go Overboard With the Buffet
Yes, the endless food is one of the biggest perks of cruising, but that doesn’t mean you have to treat every meal like it’s your last. Overeating can lead to fatigue, stomach issues and discomfort — not ideal when you're planning to lounge in the sun or hike to a waterfall. Enjoy the variety, but don’t forget balance and moderation.
6. Disrespect Port Rules or Local Culture
When you dock at different ports, you're a guest in someone else’s home. That means respecting local customs, dress codes and regulations. Always research a port before visiting, be polite and avoid illegal or disrespectful behavior. Getting into trouble abroad can lead to missed departures — or worse, detainment by local authorities.
7. Show Up Late for All Aboard Time
Cruise ships are on tight schedules, and they will leave without you if you’re late getting back from a port. The only exception is if you're on an excursion booked through the cruise line, in which case the ship typically waits. To avoid being left behind, always give yourself plenty of time to return, and don’t rely on local transportation that might run late.
8. Climb or Sit on Railings
It might seem like common sense, but every year, passengers are injured — or worse — by climbing or sitting on balcony or deck railings. No selfie or sunset view is worth the risk. Ships can rock suddenly, winds can be strong and one misstep can lead to tragedy. Always respect safety barriers.
9. Ignore the Dress Code
Most cruise lines have at least one or two formal nights and various themed events that call for specific attire. Showing up in a tank top to a fine dining restaurant not only breaks the rules, but it can also be seen as disrespectful to other guests. Always check the daily schedule and pack a few versatile outfits to be prepared for any occasion.
10. Forget to Budget for Extras
Your cruise fare typically covers food, accommodations and some entertainment — but there are a lot of extras onboard: specialty dining, spa services, excursions, Wi-Fi and gratuities. Don’t fall into the trap of swiping your room card without keeping track. Those charges can add up quickly. Budget for extras ahead of time and track your spending during the trip.
Keep reading to learn about different types of food to avoid eating on cruise ships.