A Caribbean cruise is a great way to explore multiple islands while enjoying the comforts of a floating hotel, but you shouldn’t exercise caution at the cruise ship dock – crime, illness, and other problems can and do occur on board as on vacation ashore. The Automobile Club of Southern California offers some great tips to ensure your cruise is healthy and safe:
- Get medical and dental checkups before you leave to help prevent health-related incidents. If you have special health needs, call your cruise line for information on the ship’s medical facilities, what type of equipment is available, and if a doctor or nurse will be on board.
- If you have an existing medical condition , ask your doctor for a letter explaining the condition, treatment, or necessary care. Notify the ship’s medical staff at the beginning of the cruise.
- If you are concerned about dizziness , consult a doctor before departing. Your doctor can make recommendations for you. Medicines can also be dispensed by the doctor or the buyer of the boat.
- Have proper identification . If you are sailing and returning to a US port, in most cases you will need a passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate. If you are sailing within a foreign country, you may need a visa in addition to a passport. A travel agent can advise you on the required documents.
- Pack wisely . Bring an extra pair of prescription glasses, sunglasses, and / or contact lenses, all prescription medications, instructions, and dosage amounts. Bring copies of all your prescriptions in case you need to replace any of them. Bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Choose the cabin that best suits your needs . An interior cabin on the lowest deck is the least expensive and in some cases the most stable, especially if it is in the center of the ship. However, some people feel claustrophobic if they don’t have windows or portholes.
- Never leave your cab door open or unlocked , even for a short time. Always close the door and never leave the cabin keys unattended.
- Don’t let your guard down . Keep an eye on valuables or put them in the safe on the boat or in your room.
- Always determine a person’s identity before opening your cabin door. If you didn’t order room service or don’t know the person, don’t open the door.
- If you feel like someone is following you, don’t go back to your cabin . Go to a public place and ask someone to escort you to your room.
- Familiarize yourself with the safety features of the boat, such as personal flotation devices, lifeboats, sprinkler system, and emergency exit plans.
- When going on a shore excursion, follow the instructions of your tour guide. If you are on a self-guided tour, ask authorized ship personnel which areas to avoid and whether to take precautions when driving a rental car or using public transportation. Walk only in well-lit areas.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Walk with a sense of purpose, as if you know where you are going. If you get lost, find a police officer or go to a hotel, restaurant, or store and ask for directions.
- Never leave your personal belongings like luggage, wallets or cameras unattended , not even for a minute.
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