Staying Healthy and Safe on a Cruise
Cruise ships take health and safety seriously, partly because thousands of people living in close quarters makes illness prevention a real operational priority. Frequent handwashing and use of the hand-sanitizer stations placed around the ship (especially near dining areas) go a long way toward avoiding the norovirus outbreaks cruise ships occasionally make headlines for.
Every cruise ship has an onboard medical center staffed with a doctor and nurses, equipped to handle common illnesses, minor injuries, and some emergencies, though it operates more like an urgent care than a full hospital - serious medical situations typically require evacuation to a shore-based hospital. It's worth confirming with your health insurance and travel insurance provider what's covered at sea, since many domestic health plans don't cover onboard medical costs.
Before you sail, the mandatory muster drill covers what to do in an emergency, including where your life jacket and assembly station are - it's worth paying attention rather than treating it as a formality. Questions about medical requirements for your specific cruise? Call +1-800-406-8495.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do to avoid getting sick on a cruise?
Frequent handwashing, using the hand sanitizer stations around the ship, and being mindful at buffet lines are the most effective ways to reduce your risk of illness on a cruise.
Does every cruise ship have a doctor onboard?
Yes, cruise ships carry a medical staff including a doctor and nurses, equipped to handle common illnesses and minor emergencies, though it functions more like urgent care than a full hospital.
Does my health insurance cover medical care on a cruise ship?
Not always - many domestic health insurance plans don't cover onboard medical costs, which is one reason travel insurance with medical coverage is worth considering.
What is the muster drill and is it mandatory?
It's a mandatory safety briefing before departure covering emergency procedures, life jacket locations, and your assembly station - missing it can have real consequences from the cruise line.
What happens if someone needs serious medical care at sea?
For situations beyond what the onboard medical center can handle, the ship may divert to the nearest port or arrange a medical evacuation, depending on the severity and location.
What health precautions should I take before a cruise?
Check your cruise line's current health requirements, keep routine vaccinations up to date, and consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies at sea.
Are cruise ships equipped to handle medical emergencies?
Yes, all major ocean cruise ships have a staffed medical center for common illnesses and emergencies, though serious cases may require evacuation to a shore hospital.
What safety drills are required at the start of a cruise?
All passengers must complete a muster drill, typically before or shortly after departure, covering emergency procedures and life jacket locations.
Is it safe to drink tap water on a cruise ship?
Yes, cruise ships treat and test their water systems regularly, and tap water onboard is generally safe to drink.
How do cruise lines handle illness outbreaks onboard?
Cruise lines follow strict sanitation and isolation protocols for contagious illness, including enhanced cleaning and quarantine procedures when needed.