Heritage Expeditions Health Safety Policy

What health and safety measures does Heritage Expeditions have in place?

Heritage Expeditions' itineraries involve zodiac landings and physically demanding terrain ashore in remote regions, making this line best suited to guests with good mobility. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is worth strong consideration given how costly an at-sea emergency can become without it. Easy to overlook, but it's worth a mental note.

Do I need to disclose a medical condition before sailing?

It's a good idea to flag any condition requiring special arrangements - mobility devices, oxygen, dialysis - with the cruise line's special needs desk before departure. It's worth asking about the specific medical facilities on your ship, since larger vessels often have more capability than smaller ones. Small thing, but it matters if you're planning around it.

Is there a doctor onboard?

Yes - a medical team and infirmary are standard onboard, capable of handling routine and emergency care, though not full hospital-level treatment. Staying hydrated and pacing alcohol consumption, especially on port days with excursions, helps avoid the most common onboard medical visits. Good to know before you finalize anything.

What if I need to travel with prescription medication?

Prescription meds should travel in your carry-on in original labeling, with a buffer supply in case of unexpected schedule changes. It's worth asking about the specific medical facilities on your ship, since larger vessels often have more capability than smaller ones. Good to know before you finalize anything.

Can I bring my own mobility scooter or wheelchair?

It's usually best to bring or rent your own, since ships keep only a small emergency supply of wheelchairs rather than a full rental fleet. It's worth asking about the specific medical facilities on your ship, since larger vessels often have more capability than smaller ones. Good to know before you finalize anything.

Who can answer specific health-related questions before my Heritage Expeditions cruise?

For anything health-specific before your Heritage Expeditions cruise, call +1-800-406-8495 and we'll get you to the right department. Registering any relevant medical information with guest services at check-in can speed up care if something comes up during the cruise. Easy to overlook, but it's worth a mental note.

Does Heritage Expeditions require any vaccinations before boarding?

Vaccination requirements on Heritage Expeditions depend mostly on your specific ports - domestic sailings rarely require them, but some international destinations might. It's worth packing a basic first-aid kit for minor issues that don't require a visit to the ship's medical center. Worth keeping in mind either way.

What happens if I feel sick before boarding?

Cruise lines reserve the right to deny boarding for visible signs of contagious illness, as a precaution for the whole ship. Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is worth strong consideration given how costly an at-sea emergency can become without it. Good to know before you finalize anything.

Is there a doctor onboard for medical emergencies?

Every ship carries medical professionals - at least one doctor plus nurses - for routine care and minor emergencies. Staying hydrated and pacing alcohol consumption, especially on port days with excursions, helps avoid the most common onboard medical visits. Not a bad idea to keep that in your back pocket.

What safety drills are mandatory before Heritage Expeditions departs?

All Heritage Expeditions guests must complete the muster drill, a required safety briefing on emergency procedures, before the ship leaves port. It's a good idea to know the location of the ship's medical center relative to your cabin in case of an urgent need. Good to know before you finalize anything.