Embarking on a cruise promises an adventure filled with luxury, leisure, and exploration. However, ensuring a smooth sailing experience involves being mindful of certain etiquette and safety precautions. From maintaining proper decorum to adhering to health and safety guidelines, there are several things you should never do when on a cruise. Neglecting these can not only disrupt your vacation but also affect the experience of your fellow passengers. Here are key no-nos to keep in mind to ensure a pleasant and trouble-free voyage for everyone onboard.
Hang wet clothes over the balcony railing
It’s a fire hazard and poses the risk of items blowing away in the wind. Additionally, it can cause water to drip onto cabins below. Use the provided clothesline in the bathroom for drying clothes.
Leave balcony doors open
This can interfere with the ship’s air conditioning system, causing humidity and temperature control issues in your cabin. It can also let in insects or birds, and poses a safety risk during rough seas.
Use high-wattage appliances
Appliances like hairdryers or irons can overload the ship’s electrical system, potentially causing outages or fires. These devices can also cause circuit breakers to trip, disrupting power to your cabin and neighboring ones. Always use the provided appliances or those allowed by the cruise line.
Cover smoke detectors
Covering smoke detectors is extremely dangerous as it disables a key safety feature designed to alert you in case of fire. It’s also against ship regulations and can result in fines or even being asked to disembark at the next port.
Bring candles or incense
Open flames are a significant fire hazard on a ship. These items can easily cause accidental fires, especially in the confined space of a cabin. Most cruise lines have strict policies against bringing these items onboard.
Store valuables unsecured
Leaving valuables out in the open increases the risk of theft. Cabins are cleaned regularly, and with numerous people passing through, it’s safer to use the in-room safe to store your important items like passports, cash, and jewelry.
Put items on the ledge of the balcony
Placing items on the balcony ledge can result in them falling overboard, potentially harming marine life and creating litter. High winds or ship movement can easily knock things off, so keep all belongings inside the cabin or secured on the balcony.
Leave the cabin door propped open
This poses a security risk as it allows anyone to enter your cabin. Additionally, an open door can affect the ship’s air conditioning system by letting conditioned air escape. Always ensure your door is properly closed and locked when you are not present.
Place heavy objects on shelves
During rough seas, items can easily fall off shelves, causing damage or injury. These items can also become projectiles in severe weather. Store heavy items securely in drawers or on the floor to prevent accidents.
Use too much power at once
Plugging multiple devices into one outlet can overload the circuit and create a fire hazard. This can also lead to power outages in your cabin or other parts of the ship. Use power strips with surge protectors and unplug devices when not in use.
Leave food out
Leaving food out can attract pests like ants or roaches to your cabin. It also creates an unhygienic environment and can cause unpleasant odors. Always dispose of leftover food properly and keep your cabin clean.
Flush inappropriate items
Flushing items like wipes, paper towels, or feminine hygiene products can cause severe plumbing issues on the ship. These items can clog the ship’s sewage system, leading to backups and maintenance problems. Only flush toilet paper and use the provided trash bins for other waste.
Ignore unusual smells
Unusual smells can be a sign of issues like mold, sewage leaks, or electrical problems. Ignoring these smells can lead to more significant issues that affect your comfort and safety. Report any strange odors to maintenance immediately to prevent larger problems.
Leave trash outside the door
Placing trash outside your door is unsanitary and disrespectful to other passengers. It can also attract pests and create unpleasant smells in the hallway. Wait for housekeeping to remove it or use the trash bins located throughout the ship.
Ignore safety briefings
Safety briefings are crucial for understanding emergency procedures and locations of lifeboats. These briefings are mandatory and provide essential information that can save your life in an emergency. Paying attention can ensure you know what to do if an emergency arises.
Have loud parties
Being considerate of your neighbors is important on a cruise. Loud parties can disturb others and may result in complaints or penalties. Keep noise levels reasonable, especially during late hours, to maintain a pleasant environment for everyone.
Use hanging organizers on doors
Over-the-door organizers can damage the door or door frame. The ship may charge for repairs, and these organizers can also obstruct the door from closing properly. Use freestanding organizers or those that hang on closet rods instead.
Bring illegal substances
Bringing illegal drugs or other prohibited items onboard is strictly against cruise policies and can result in serious legal consequences, including arrest. These items also pose significant safety and security risks.
Ignore the “do not disturb” sign
If the “do not disturb” sign is displayed, respect the privacy of the occupants. This applies to both housekeeping and fellow passengers. Ignoring this sign can lead to uncomfortable situations and violations of privacy.
Smoke
Smoking in non-designated areas poses a serious fire risk and can lead to fines. It can also create unpleasant environments for non-smokers. Always use designated smoking areas to ensure safety and comfort for all passengers.
Overload the safe
Putting too many items in the safe can prevent it from locking properly, leaving your valuables unprotected. Ensure the safe is securely closed and store only essential valuables to prevent malfunctions.
Leave electronics charging unattended
Charging devices can overheat and pose a fire risk if left unattended. This is especially dangerous in the confined space of a cabin. Always unplug devices when you leave the cabin to reduce the risk of fire.
Use adhesive hooks on walls
Adhesive hooks can damage wall surfaces, resulting in repair charges. They can also leave residue that is difficult to clean. Use non-damaging options like suction hooks if needed to avoid incurring additional costs.
Try to cook
Bringing cooking devices like hot plates or coffee makers is against most cruise policies due to fire risk. These devices can also cause electrical issues. Use the ship’s dining facilities instead to enjoy meals safely.
Run in the hallways
Running in the hallways can lead to accidents, especially in rough seas. Falls can result in serious injuries, so always walk and hold onto handrails for safety. This also ensures the safety of other passengers.
Place items on air conditioning vents
Blocking air vents can disrupt airflow, making your cabin uncomfortable and potentially causing the unit to overheat. This can lead to maintenance issues and discomfort. Keep vents clear to ensure proper air circulation.
Ignore maintenance issues
Reporting maintenance issues promptly ensures they are addressed before they become bigger problems. This keeps your cabin comfortable and safe, and prevents small issues from turning into major inconveniences.
Sneak extra guests
Having unregistered guests in your cabin violates ship policies and safety regulations. It can also lead to overcrowding and safety hazards. Always adhere to the occupancy limits of your cabin to ensure safety and compliance.
Leave children unsupervised
Children should never be left unsupervised in the cabin for their safety. Utilize the ship’s kids’ programs or always have a responsible adult present. This ensures their safety and prevents accidents or issues.
Hang towels on balcony furniture
Towels and other items can easily blow away from the balcony. This can cause litter and create hazards for other passengers and marine life. Use the bathroom clothesline or in-cabin drying options instead to keep items secure.
Touch temperature controls without understanding them
Cabin temperature controls can be sensitive and affect the entire room. Adjusting them incorrectly can make the cabin uncomfortable. If you have issues, contact maintenance rather than adjusting controls you’re unfamiliar with.
Let water run unnecessarily
Water conservation is important on a ship. Excessive water use can strain the ship’s water supply. Turn off taps when not in use to conserve water and reduce waste, contributing to the ship’s overall efficiency.
Forget to lock the balcony door
An unlocked balcony door is a security risk, especially when the cabin is unoccupied. It also allows for potential intrusions. Always lock doors when leaving the cabin or at night to ensure your safety.
Take provided items (robes, towels) home
Taking items like robes and towels is considered theft. These items are for your use during the cruise only. Most cruise lines will charge your account for missing items, so leave them behind.
Ignore daily newsletters or announcements
The daily newsletter contains important information about activities, dining, and safety updates. Missing this information can cause you to miss out on important events or updates. Stay informed to enhance your cruise experience.
Tamper with safety equipment
Tampering with life jackets, fire extinguishers, or other safety equipment is illegal and dangerous. This equipment is essential for emergencies and must be kept in working order. Tampering can result in fines and endanger lives.
Ignore seasickness symptoms
Treating seasickness early can prevent it from worsening. Ignoring symptoms can lead to severe discomfort. Use remedies or seek medical advice if symptoms persist to ensure a comfortable journey.
Forget to pack a nightlight
Cabins can be very dark at night, especially interior ones. A nightlight can help you navigate safely without disturbing others. This is particularly useful for families or those with limited mobility.
Ignore your balcony during rough seas
Using the balcony during rough seas can be dangerous due to high winds and waves. Staying inside reduces the risk of accidents. Secure balcony doors to prevent them from slamming and causing damage.
Forget to check for room damage upon arrival
Inspect your cabin upon arrival and report any damage immediately. This ensures you aren’t held responsible for pre-existing issues. Documenting any problems helps avoid disputes and ensures a smooth checkout.
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