How to Stay Safe on a Cruise: Health, Security, and Scam Prevention

Cruises are generally safe, but they’re not immune to health risks, theft, or travel scams. Staying alert and prepared ensures your vacation stays fun and stress-free from boarding to disembarkation.

Here’s how to stay safe on a cruise, both onboard and during port visits.

Use the Ship’s Safety Features

Start by familiarizing yourself with safety protocols:
- Attend the muster drill on embarkation day
- Know your muster station and evacuation route
- Read the safety card in your cabin
- Pay attention to ship announcements and signage

Cabin doors usually auto-lock, but always double-check and use the deadbolt when inside.

Keep Important Documents Secure

Don’t carry your passport around the ship. Instead:
- Lock it in your cabin safe along with backup credit cards and cash
- Carry a copy of your passport and cruise ID ashore

Only bring what you need to port. A photocopy of key documents is safer than the real thing.

Watch Your Step

Ships move, and the combination of motion, water, and unfamiliar layouts can lead to injuries.

Stay safe by:
- Wearing proper footwear
- Holding railings on stairs and outdoor decks
- Being cautious around pools and wet areas

Don’t run indoors or near railings, especially during choppy seas.

Use Caution With Alcohol

Bars are everywhere on cruises, and many guests overindulge.

Drink responsibly by:
- Staying aware of your surroundings
- Watching your drink at all times
- Avoiding excessive drinking alone

If you’re traveling solo, avoid telling strangers your cabin number or personal details.

Practice Health Safety

Germs can spread quickly on cruise ships due to close quarters.

Reduce health risks by:
- Washing your hands regularly
- Using hand sanitizer stations throughout the ship
- Avoiding buffet items that look improperly stored
- Staying hydrated and protecting yourself from sun exposure

If you feel sick, notify medical staff early to prevent spreading illness.

Know the Signs of Common Scams

Scams are rare on ships but more common in port. Popular tactics include:
- Inflated taxi fares or “broken meter” excuses
- Shops that overcharge or push counterfeit goods
- Tours that don’t match what was promised

Tips to avoid scams:
- Confirm taxi prices in advance
- Research common tourist traps at each destination
- Book excursions through well-reviewed companies
- Use local currency or a credit card with international protections

Secure Your Belongings

Theft is uncommon but still possible. Practice cruise security basics:
- Never leave your phone, wallet, or camera unattended in public areas
- Lock valuables in your safe while at dinner or on deck
- Don’t bring expensive jewelry or gear you wouldn’t want to lose

Monitor Your Onboard Account

Track your onboard spending daily using the ship’s app or cabin TV. This helps catch:
- Mistaken charges
- Duplicate transactions
- Potential fraud

Ask guest services about any charges you don’t recognize right away.

Stay Aware in Port

When heading ashore:
- Stick to well-populated areas
- Leave the port area with a clear plan and timeline
- Keep your ship’s departure time in mind
- Travel in groups when possible

Keep the port agent’s contact info with you in case of emergencies or delays.

Teach Kids About Safety

If you’re traveling with children:
- Go over meeting points and ship rules
- Enroll them in supervised kids' clubs rather than letting them roam
- Use wristbands or lanyards with ID if needed

Teenagers should always check in with parents regularly and avoid hanging out in cabins with people they don’t know well.

Report Suspicious Behavior

If something feels off, tell a crew member or security immediately. Cruise staff are trained to handle everything from illness to harassment to missing items.

Summary

Cruises are one of the safest ways to travel — but like any vacation, a little caution goes a long way. Pay attention, make smart choices, and follow ship and port guidelines to ensure a secure, relaxing journey from start to finish.