I was just reading an article that was giving reason why NOT take a cruise. They were the same reason why not go go anywhere, why not leave the safety of your own home. So, I thought I would address the concerns.
Many people do not consider there is crime on a cruise ship. I have only heard about the alleged rapes that have happened. I have no experience with that; however, it would seem to me one should use the same common sense that one would use on land – “don’t bring someone home (your cabin) you don’t know!.” Do not get flirtatious with “the help.” Don’t answer your door naked or half dressed. When you are out and about on the ship do not leave you personal belongs “of importance” unattended. Mega ships can have as many as 6500 guest and 4500 staff members. That’s a lot of people – more that your local grocery store, more than your local park, more than you school and more than most office buildings. Would you leave your purse or passport in a public place? Well, DON’T on a ship. Even the small ships.
There is no police force on ships. I have been told there are private security agents on ship. I have never seen any. So, if they are there, they are not noticeable. AND, the question comes up – Who has jurisdiction? It depends where the crime happens. ON board at sea or in port. At sea, the captain calls the shots, his discretion. In port, perhaps the country has jurisdiction. It’s a B I G grey area.
People disappear on ships. YES, they do. You have heard of “Man Over Board” and that’s only if someone sees it. Just recently I read where a couple had a balcony cabin along with a 3 year old. They left the child on the balcony “alone.” Baby Over Board. Also, there are places on the ship that the public SHOULD NOT go. There are signs telling you do not go here, do not go there. FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTION. Do no climb on the railings. DO NOT DO STUPID STUFF! You may thing it’s fun, cool, cute, whatever, AND it may cost you your life. The ship may hit a big swell and take a sudden dip/dive and you could find yourself in deep water. Some photo ops are best left out.
FOOD, FOOD, FOOD! Yes, there is food available mostly 24 hours a day. When you first get on the ship, you are told about the buffet. It is usually sprawling with all types of food, just waiting for you and everyone else to touch. WASH YOUR HANDS and/or use the anti-bacteria hand wash that is always available at the entry to most all dining areas. There are dining rooms where you can order your meals; thus, lessening the numbers of people handling your food. Keep your hands washed. Dirty hands are most problematic with spreading viruses on a ship.
Sea sickness. If you are sensitive to motion, there are products that do a good job of keeping you stable. What I know about is Dramamine and patches that go behind the ear. The ship sells these but, they can run out. Ginger root is good – plain ole fresh ginger. Bring your own. Just chew on a little of that. It helps to have your cabin “mid-ship’, too. It cost a bit more money but, the real estate law of location, location, location applies. You don’t feel the rocking so much in the center of the ship as you might in the front (fore ) or back (aft) of the ship.
Unqualified doctors may man the medical department OR at least, not the quality of doctor you maybe accustom to. You DO NOT want to get on a ship already sick. You should ALWAYS get travel insurance – and not necessarily what is offered by the ship. There are restrictions to many ship offered “vacation protection” packages. AND, they may or may not cover the cost of getting you back home in an emergency. They may or may not cover your emergency while in another country. Get your own insurance. Talk to your travel agent – me – The Group Travel Lady.
Bed bugs – thank God I have never had that experience. However, it’s the same as in a hotel. There are products to help alleviate the problem – some sprays, and bed bug travel sleeping bag (sleep sack). Check with Google.
These are the most common issues “non- sailors” bring up as opposition to cruising. Most issues can be handled before you get on the cruise. Research, common sense, positivity and faith go a long. When in doubt call Your Group Travel Lady.
Marshagogo – gone.
