What Not to Eat at Sea
Cruises are all about relaxation, indulgence and adventure — and let’s be honest, the endless buffets and around-the-clock dining are a huge part of the appeal. But not all cruise ship foods are created equal, and some can put a serious damper on your vacation. Whether it’s to avoid food poisoning, motion sickness or just feeling overly full, knowing which foods to steer clear of can make your cruise much more enjoyable. Here are some foods to avoid while on a cruise to ensure you don't get sick on vacation.
1. Raw or Undercooked Seafood
Yes, it’s tempting to indulge in fresh sushi or oysters while watching the ocean go by. But raw seafood comes with a higher risk of foodborne illness, especially on a cruise where food is prepared in large quantities and stored in bulk. Bacteria like Vibrio and Norovirus can thrive in raw or improperly handled seafood. Unless you're confident in the cruise line's food safety standards (and have a strong stomach), it’s better to skip the raw bar.
2. Buffet Items That Sit Out Too Long
Buffets are cruise ship staples, offering a vast array of choices from breakfast through late-night snacks. However, some items can sit out under warming lamps or at room temperature for hours. Dishes like creamy pastas, potato salad or egg-based items (like deviled eggs) are particularly prone to bacterial growth when not kept at proper temperatures. Look for freshly replenished trays or opt for made-to-order stations when possible.
3. Heavy, Greasy Foods
From burgers and fries to fried chicken and mozzarella sticks, greasy comfort food is everywhere on a cruise. While satisfying, these foods can contribute to bloating and sluggishness — not ideal when you're trying to enjoy beach excursions or dancing on the deck. Worse, greasy foods can exacerbate motion sickness for those prone to seasickness. Keep these indulgences to a minimum and balance them with lighter fare like grilled fish, salads or fresh fruit.
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4. Unwashed or Raw Produce (From Ports)
While the fruits and veggies served on the ship are usually safe, be cautious when buying fresh produce from local vendors at port stops. Not all regions have the same food safety standards, and eating unwashed or contaminated produce can lead to traveler’s diarrhea or more serious illnesses. If you’re craving something fresh, stick to produce served onboard or wash any fruits thoroughly yourself before eating.
5. Soft-Serve Ice Cream (From Self-Serve Machines)
That soft-serve machine near the pool might be calling your name, but pause before you fill that cone. Self-serve machines can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly and regularly — and on a busy ship, hygiene can slip. Plus, with so many hands touching the machine throughout the day, cross-contamination is a real concern. If you're craving something cold and sweet, opt for hand-scooped ice cream from a supervised dessert station instead.
6. Shellfish in Buffets
Shellfish, like shrimp, mussels and clams, are especially risky when kept at improper temperatures or left out for long periods. Even when cooked, shellfish can quickly spoil and cause food poisoning. Since it’s hard to know how long buffet shellfish has been sitting out, it’s best to be cautious. If you do want to indulge, look for shellfish served in specialty restaurants or at freshly prepared stations.
7. Exotic Local Dishes at Port Stops
Trying new foods is part of the fun of traveling, but some exotic dishes might be unfamiliar to your digestive system and could lead to gastrointestinal distress. Dishes prepared with unfamiliar spices, unusual meats or different cooking methods can upset your stomach — especially when combined with motion from the sea. If you're sampling local cuisine at a port, stick to well-cooked, freshly made meals from reputable vendors or restaurants with good hygiene practices.
8. Carbonated Drinks in Excess
Sodas and fizzy drinks may be refreshing in the moment, but they can cause bloating and discomfort when consumed in large amounts, especially in combination with large meals. Carbonation can also make you feel overly full or lead to indigestion, which isn’t fun when you're trying to relax in a swimsuit or head out on an active shore excursion.
Final Thoughts
Cruising is all about treating yourself, but smart food choices can help you feel your best throughout your trip. Stick with freshly prepared, well-cooked foods, avoid anything that looks like it’s been sitting out too long and listen to your body. A little moderation goes a long way — and keeps your vacation smooth sailing from start to finish.
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