How to Stay Safe on a Cruise Vacation

When visiting other countries on your cruise vacation, safety should be a primary concern. Cruise lines remain in constant contact with authorities, monitoring travel advisories that might impact their cruise ship itineraries. If the U.S. State Department issues a travel advisory for a specific location, the cruise line may make adjustments to their published itinerary.

Keep in mind that cruise ship travelers must assume the ultimate responsibility for their actions while ashore. When visiting ports-of-call, travelers should take some common-sense precautions:

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Stay in the normal tourist areas. If you travel far afield, it is best to take a guided tour. Book shore excursions through the cruise line so they can track your whereabouts and know if you'll be late getting back to the ship.

2. Never leave your belongings unattended in public areas. This is especially true in your cruise ship port, but also on shore excursions.

3. Be aware of people around you. On shore excursions, don't get so caught up in your amazing travel destination that you neglect basic safety rules.

4. Dress and behave conservatively. As a tourist in a foreign port, keep a low profile. Drawing attention to yourself may put you at risk.

5. Be careful when eating and drinking ashore. Alcohol can impair your judgment. If you are planning to dine in port, get recommendations from the cruise line.

Tips & Warnings

• Monitor your time on shore to make certain that you return to your cruise ship on schedule.
• Never accept packages from anyone you don't know personally. Take the same precautions in cruise ship ports as you would in airports.

Resources

• Complete Guide to Cruising & Cruise Ships
• Choose a Cruise