Danger on the high seas – what can make cruises so dangerous?
Have you ever thought about going on a cruise? When thinking about cruises, it's easy to picture people of retirement age and older, soaking up the sun and playing games on the many decks available. However, these days cruise ships are enjoyed by all kinds of people.
From families with young children who'll enjoy onboard swimming and waterpark facilities, to young couples who want to eat in a wide variety of restaurants and hit the gym between ports.
Luxury cruises come with breathtaking facilities and suites, ensuring everyone has a great time between the various destinations they're scheduled to visit. However, despite this luxurious floating hotel, there are plenty of dangers that can turn an indulgent holiday into a nightmare. It’s useful to be aware of all of the positives and negatives of this type of holiday.
So read on to find out: what can make cruises so dangerous?
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Illness
Cruises have always been marred by stories of entire ships being struck down with illnesses like E. coli and salmonella. However, cruises have also hit the headlines recently due to the fatal and catastrophic impact that coronavirus has had on passengers and crew alike. Click the link for the symptoms of coronavirus.
With passengers being forced to quarantine in their tiny cabins, with little or no contact with the outside world and unable to dock in certain countries. A high number of passengers have died after catching coronavirus during their cruise holiday. Hopefully, in the future, cruise companies will have learnt lessons from this crisis and found a way to keep people socially distanced and safe as soon as possible.
Passengers neglecting the muster drill
The muster drill takes place before the cruise begins and it instructs passengers on how to put on a life jacket, where lifeboats are and what certain alarms mean. When passengers don’t pay attention, they put their lives at risk!
Always make sure you read the safety information given to you on arrival. This goes for all types of travel from arriving at a hotel to flying.
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Balconies
Balconies are a great way to enjoy a fantastic view without having to share it with other passengers. However, a fall from your balcony on a cruise doesn’t end well. Which is why passengers are urged to practice balcony safety and common sense. Try and make sure you are always with your partner or a family member so you can look out for each other and never leave children of any age unattended.
Poor food hygiene
As great as the food may look, it’s incredibly difficult to keep food fresh on a cruise, and despite strict food hygiene practices, it doesn’t take much for health and safety issues to take hold.
Stick to foods which are cooked in front of you or which you know are safe raw or undercooked. Consider full-service dining rather than the self-service.
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The often-limitless alcohol
Drinking too much has its own dangers. But drinking into excess whilst on a cruise? This is a huge danger and causes many issues on board. If the ship is swaying and bobbing around, you're less likely to be able to keep your balance and you'll most like trip and fall. Or even worse – fall overboard. It can also make you feel worse if you are already feeling unwell.
Like any type of travel, there are positives and pitfalls. It’s best to be aware of them before you book and decide with your travel partners what you will do in each eventuality. If you’re prepared there’s no reason why you can’t have a wonderful time when the travel industry returns to normal.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.