cruise ships stop

• LA Times Crossword
• March 25 2024

Cruise ship stop

While searching our database we found 1 possible solution for the: Cruise ship stop crossword clue.  This crossword clue was last seen on March 25 2024 LA Times Crossword puzzle . The solution we have for Cruise ship stop has a total of 4 letters.

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Do You Need to Be Vaccinated to Cruise? It Depends on the Ship and Destination

While most cruise lines have scrapped covid vaccine and testing requirements, some companies and international cruise ports still have vaccination and testing rules in place..

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If you’re planning on sailing with Viking anytime soon, you’d better track down that COVID-19 vaccine certificate.

Courtesy of Viking

When cruising restarted in spring 2021, after a nearly 15-month pandemic-spurred shutdown imposed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cruisers faced a barrage of rules, including strict requirements for COVID-19 vaccinations and precruise COVID-19 testing. Later, the rules started to go by the wayside, and it was hard to keep track of who was requiring what. Not anymore.

Most cruise lines have now dropped or are soon dropping rules for both vaccinations and precruise testing, with at least one notable exception. Viking —on its river, ocean, and expedition ships—still requires everyone on board be fully vaccinated .

Another line that was still requiring COVID vaccinations, small-ship line Windstar Cruises, will be scrapping its vaccine mandate as of June 1, 2023. “We’ve invested in and improved our health and safety processes, including upgrading the HVAC systems on all of our ships, which has led to a cleaner and safer environment on board,” says Windstar president Christopher Prelog. “When combined with the widespread availability of vaccines and medical treatments, the risk factors are considerably lower now, giving us the confidence to lift the requirement.”

Are COVID vaccinations and testing still required for cruises?

Most cruise lines have dropped both their vaccine and testing requirements. Those that have lingered into 2023—mostly lines operating smaller ships—have been quietly scaling back their requirements.

The result: While there was a time after cruising restarted that you could be assured that your fellow passengers, at least those age 12 and up, were both fully vaccinated and tested for COVID-19 before getting on the ship, that is not the case anymore.

That said, specific countries have their own requirements, and several countries still require that cruise ship passengers are vaccinated and/or tested before arrival. If you are doing an itinerary outside of the Caribbean or Europe (where most vaccine and testing requirements have been dropped)—including to select countries in Central and South America or to Australia—you still have to read your cruise line’s precruise health and safety information carefully to make sure you comply with the latest requirements.

Contact your cruise line or check the U.S. State Department’s travel advisories for the latest.

What to know before you cruise

Vaccine and pretrip testing requirements can be confusing, especially if you are cruising internationally. Cruise lines have their own rules; countries have their own rules.

Before your trip, you will need to review your cruise line’s health and safety protocols. If a precruise test is required by a certain country, you will find that noted. In this case, you may be required to arrive at your ship with a negative COVID-19 test result in hand or not. (If testing is required, it can typically be either a PCR test or tele-health-monitored antigen test , paid for by the passenger. The cruise line may also require a test at the pier, paid for by the cruise line.)

If being fully vaccinated is required, that means having received the original series of vaccines at least 14 days prior to your cruise, or the original series plus a booster shot or shots.

As was the case even before the pandemic, you will be asked at embarkation to fill out a questionnaire inquiring about your current health status and whether you currently have any symptoms of illness.

You are free to pack and wear masks on your cruise. Most cruise lines suggest you do wear masks in crowded indoor situations—but it’s not enforced.

A quick cruise line guide to COVID requirements

Here’s a rundown of the basic rules for some leading cruise lines. Note: There may be additional requirements if you are traveling internationally. Be sure to review the latest requirements prior to boarding.

American Queen Voyages

On American Queen Voyages’ river, ocean, Great Lakes, and expedition ships, there are no longer any precruise testing or vaccinations required. Face coverings are optional, though masks may be required of any passengers showing symptoms.

Precruise testing is no longer required for vaccinated guests sailing with Azamara , except in ports where testing is required. No vaccination is necessary for cruises departing from or returning to the United States or Europe. In Australia, all guests 12 years and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before sailing with all required COVID-19 vaccine doses (including a booster shot). Children under 12 years old are not required to be vaccinated.

Celebrity Cruises

No vaccination or testing is required on the majority of Celebrity Cruises sailings. Destinations with stricter requirements include: the Galápagos, Australia and New Zealand, transatlantic crossings, and select Central and South America itineraries. Unvaccinated guests need to be tested in Brazil, Chile, and Colombia.

As of April 23, 2023, on the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria , and as of June 8, 2023, on the Queen Elizabeth , vaccinations and testing will no longer be required by Cunard (until then, testing and vaccination requirements apply).

Disney Cruise Line

For sailings embarking from the United States, which are the bulk of Disney Cruise Line’s sailings, no vaccination or testing is required. Disney recommends all guests be vaccinated before sailing and take a test for COVID-19 two days prior to their cruise. There are additional requirements on repositioning cruises and in Australia, so it is important to check the line’s website before your cruise.

Holland America Line

There are no precruise testing or vaccination requirements on most Holland America Line itineraries. There are requirements on select voyages (you can look up a specific voyage’s requirements on the line’s website).

Lindblad Expeditions

For voyages embarking on or after May 11, 2023, Lindblad Expeditions will no longer require guests to be fully vaccinated, although the line recommends guests be fully vaccinated (for cruises prior to that time, all passengers age five and up must be vaccinated). Lindblad recommends, but does not require, passengers take a predeparture COVID-19 test within five days of the start of their expedition.

Oceania Cruises

Vaccine requirements are purely dependent on the destinations being visited on each Oceania cruise. Passengers are advised to be up to date on the latest regulations for all destinations on their cruise itinerary.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Effective April 2023, Paul Gauguin Cruises no longer requires that passengers are vaccinated or tested for COVID prior to embarkation, but it continues to encourage vaccination. “Paul Gauguin Cruises’ officers, staff and crew will remain fully vaccinated,” the line states. Travelers will need to present a health declaration form at embarkation.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Vaccines and precruise testing are generally not required to sail with Regent Seven Seas Cruises . There are some requirements in place based on local health regulations in a specific country a ship is visiting. Regent notifies guests approximately 30 days prior to sailing of any country-specific protocols.

Royal Caribbean

No vaccine or precruise testing is required on the majority of Royal Caribbean itineraries, with a few exceptions: Cruises from Australia, transpacific and transatlantic sailings, and cruises from Hawai‘i to Vancouver.

No vaccine or testing required except on certain Seabourn itineraries where a country may have specific requirements.

No vaccination is required for Silversea passengers except as designated by the destination. Precruise testing is not required except when specified by a destination.

Viking Cruises

All passengers and crew are required to be vaccinated on Viking’s river, ocean, and expedition ships—without exception. Viking strongly recommends passengers receive a booster dose before departing. Viking recommends but does not require a predeparture COVID-19 test (except if required by a destination).

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages has no precruise testing or vaccination requirements. Masks may be required at select times.

Windstar Cruises

Beginning June 1, 2023, Windstar will no longer require guests to be vaccinated. Crew will continue to be vaccinated. Masks are optional, with the line highly recommending guests wear masks in indoor public spaces. All guests fill out a health questionnaire on embarkation. A precruise COVID-19 test is not required unless you show symptoms.

This article was originally published in May 2022; it was most recently updated on April 19, 2023, with current information.

Do I need a COVID vaccine to cruise? A line-by-line guide

When the first cruises allowing Americans restarted in spring 2021, all major lines were sailing with at least 90% of passengers vaccinated against COVID-19. That meant they required just about everyone on board to have their shots, with only a few exceptions allowed for young children and people who can't be vaccinated due to medical conditions or religious beliefs.

Since then, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has withdrawn its opt-in guidance for cruise lines, and most are now allowing unvaccinated passengers to sail. In fact, most aren't even checking to see if cruisers are vaccinated or not.

However, with cases picking up seasonally and new booster vaccines rolling out, will you need a vaccine to cruise? Click on your favorite cruise line above, under "Jump to Section," to find out.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

Note: In order to be considered "fully vaccinated," passengers must have received their final shot (not including boosters) at least 15 days prior to embarkation. Most lines only accept vaccines (or a combination of vaccines) recognized and approved by the World Health Organization and the CDC. Generally, proof of inoculation must include your name, the type of vaccine you received and the dates on which you received all required doses.

Booster shots are not required unless specifically noted. However, keep in mind that the rules may vary by country, with some lines requiring boosters for international departures due to local regulations or for extra-long sailings like ocean crossings when port calls are few or nonexistent. Passengers who have their boosters are considered "up to date" rather than merely "fully vaccinated."

For general information on testing, please refer to our article on cruise testing requirements .

AmaWaterways

Vaccine required no.

AmaWaterways no longer requires proof of vaccination for passengers. However, cruisers are responsible for meeting the requirements of the countries in which they'll be traveling. If they do not, standard cancellation fees will apply. Pre-cruise testing is not required. Should passengers become ill during their cruise, AmaWaterways will assist in procuring testing and other medical services, which will be the financial responsibility of those guests.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines does not have a vaccine requirement for all passengers on any of its sailings. Pre-cruise testing is no longer required.

American Queen Voyages

Vaccines are not required to sail with American Queen Voyages , and pre-cruise testing is no longer required.

Related: What happens if someone tests positive for COVID-19 on your cruise

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Vaccination is not mandatory for Atlas cruises, but passengers must comply with regulations in countries on their scheduled itinerary, which could require that they be up to date on their shots. Additionally, pre-cruise testing is no longer a requirement.

Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways no longer requires proof of vaccination or a negative test prior to passenger boarding. However, mandatory testing and proof of vaccination could still be required in some countries the line visits.

Azamara recommends that passengers follow local regulations and the latest guidance from government health organizations when determining which vaccines to obtain prior to travel. The line also does not require negative test results in order to board unless mandated by local governments in the ports where the line's ships sail.

Carnival Cruise Line

Neither vaccines nor pre-cruise testing is required for Carnival sailings. However, the line recommends that anyone 5 years or older be up to date on their shots and carry proof. It also suggests that cruisers test themselves no further than three days from their sailing date to make sure they're in good health.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity does not mandate vaccination or testing for any passenger on any sailing unless required by regulations in the ports its ships are visiting.

Related: Cruise ship contact tracing: How the world's major lines are tracking COVID-19 exposure

Celestyal Cruises

Celestyal continues to require all crew members to be fully vaccinated, but passengers don't have to be. The line recommends anyone 12 and older be up to date on their inoculations. Testing is also no longer necessary in order to board Celestyal ships.

Cunard Line

Although Cunard suggests that travelers be fully vaccinated and current with their boosters, proof of immunization is not required, nor is pre-cruise testing for any of the line's sailing unless required by law.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line encourages — but does not require — all passengers to be fully vaccinated before sailing. It also recommends pre-cruise testing, no more than two days prior to embarkation, for anyone who doesn't have their shots.

Emerald Cruises

Emerald Cruises suggests that all passengers be vaccinated, but it no longer checks for proof. Pre-cruise testing is also no longer required, but the line advises travelers to check local regulations in the places they'll be visiting.

Grand Circle Cruise Line

Vaccine required yes.

Grand Circle has mandated that all passengers must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to embarkation as a condition of carriage, and proof must be provided before boarding. Passengers who are not fully vaccinated will have to return home at their own expense. Boosters are not mandatory. Pre-cruise testing might be required, depending on your port of embarkation. (The line will send you that information prior to your sailing.)

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Hapag-Lloyd does not require vaccinations or pre-cruise testing as a condition of sailing. However, the line recommends both to passengers as precautions. It also advises that cruisers are responsible for knowing and adhering to all local guidelines and regulations.

Holland America

Holland America now allows unvaccinated passengers to sail and does not make pre-cruise testing compulsory unless either of these is required by local regulations in the areas its vessels sail. Booked cruisers can search for requirements specific to their individual sailings by using this tool .

Hurtigruten

Vaccine required sometimes.

On expedition cruises with Hurtigruten , passengers are not required to show proof of vaccination, except on 2023 and 2024 voyages to Antarctica and the Northwest Passage or West Africa sailings departing from and returning to Dakar. Immunization is also not necessary for the line's non-expedition itineraries, but it is recommended for both coastal voyages and expedition cruises. Neither type of cruise requires negative test results as a condition of embarkation. Passengers with reservations can check specific protocols for their specific bookings using this tool .

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad passengers no longer need to provide proof of vaccination in order to cruise, and pre-cruise testing is no longer required, including at embarkation. Exceptions might apply for departures from certain destinations. The line urges passengers to follow government recommendations for masking, testing and vaccination.

Related: Why I feel safer now on a cruise ship than in my hometown

MSC Cruises

Vaccination and testing are no longer terms of carriage when sailing with MSC Cruises . The line still recommends that passengers receive their shots and notes that it's each passenger's responsibility to comply with local regulations in the places their sailing visits.

Norwegian Cruise Line

In early August 2022, Norwegian Cruise Line became the first major cruise line to roll back its vaccination requirements. Proof of immunization is no longer required, nor is testing in order to board for any voyage.

Oceania Cruises

Upscale cruise line Oceania does not check vaccination records for passengers, nor does it require pre-cruise testing for its sailings.

P&O Cruises

There are no vaccination or testing mandates in place for any of P&O Cruises ' voyages.

Ponant 's website simply reads, "when you visit certain destinations, vaccines can be recommended," but they are not required by the line. Ponant also says it will alert passengers to their specific requirements after they have booked a voyage. Testing is also not needed in order to board.

Princess Cruises

Following an industry-wide rollback of protocols, Princess passengers no longer have to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccine, nor proof of a negative test result, unless either is required by local regulations. Passengers are responsible for knowing the requirements for the places their ships will visit.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent doesn't check the vaccination status of any of its passengers unless required by local protocols. Testing requirements vary by location and might depend on whether or not you are up to date on your shots. If vaccination or testing is required, the line will alert cruisers approximately 30 days prior to their sailing date.

Royal Caribbean

To board Royal Caribbean ships, you don't have to be vaccinated or provide test results. However, the line advises staying up to date on inoculations and following guidelines issued by federal health authorities.

Saga has rolled back its vaccination and testing requirements, which is significant, given that the line only allows passengers 50 and older to sail on its vessels. They will only be required if local authorities dictate them.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Passengers embarking on river and ocean voyages with Scenic will not need to be fully immunized prior to sailing. Testing is not required by the line but might be needed to enter the country in which you're embarking on your sailing. Passengers are responsible for meeting entry requirements.

For cruises with luxury line Seabourn , there are no line-enforced regulations for vaccination or testing unless required by local authorities in the countries on which its vessels call. To see if your booked sailing requires either of these, check out the line's search tool .

Luxury brand Silversea does not require shots for its passengers or pre-cruise tests unless they're needed to meet local regulations.

Star Clippers

Star Clippers has eliminated all vaccine checks and testing protocols for all passengers on all voyages.

For all voyages through 2023, Tauck requires passengers 12 and older to be fully vaccinated and have at least one booster dose and/or show proof of recovery from COVID-19. Passengers 11 years old and younger are not required to be fully vaccinated. If they aren't fully vaccinated or don't have a booster, they must provide proof of a negative PCR or antigen test result from a test taken no more than three days prior to embarkation. For sailings in 2024, vaccination and testing requirements will be waived for all passengers.

UnCruise Adventures

All UnCruise passengers are exempt from vaccine and testing requirements. The line will continue to monitor the effects of new variants, as well as CDC recommendations and will adjust its policies accordingly.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Testing requirements are determined by the countries the ships visit, but the line itself has no vaccine or testing mandates of its own. You can check the protocols for the places on your itinerary for the most up-to-date information by visiting the protocols page on Uniworld's website .

All Viking passengers, whether on a river sailing or an ocean voyage, must be fully vaccinated for sailings departing on or before Oct. 31, 2023. It will not be required for cruisers embarking on or after Nov. 1, 2023. Testing is no longer required unless passengers are exhibiting symptoms and seek medical assistance.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages will not check proof of immunization or a negative COVID-19 test prior to boarding.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar no longer mandates shots for passengers of any age. Testing is not required by the line but might be necessary based on local regulations, which with passengers must comply.

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Royal Caribbean shuts down trips to Haiti. Here’s where its cruise ships are going instead.

R oyal Caribbean announced suspensions of planned stops to Labadee, the cruise line’s private resort on Haiti’s northern shore, in the wake of continued violence and lawlessness in the island nation.

The announcement on Thursday came a day after Royal Caribbean said it would continue stopping at its private resort while “monitoring” for safety threats.

“The safety and security of our guests, crew, and communities we visit are our top priority. Our Global Security and Intel Team is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution, we are temporarily making adjustments to sailings visiting Labadee,” the cruise line announced.

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So far, the suspension is in effect until March 22, the cruise line said. Plans beyond that date will be announced as decisions are made.

“We will continue to monitor and reassess calls as needed, and will communicate updates with guests directly,” the statement said.

The U.S. State Department has maintained a “Do Not Travel” advisory for Haiti since July 27, 2023, due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and poor health care infrastructure. “Kidnapping is widespread and victims regularly include U.S. citizens,” the alert states.

The situation took a turn for the worse in early March as gangs attacked government buildings and the National Penitentiary, releasing an estimated 4,000 inmates. This week, Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced his resignation.

Labadee is an enclosed resort, built on a peninsula accessible only to Royal Caribbean guests and employees, that the cruise line has leased since the 1980s. The 260-acre property is located about 130 miles north of Port-au-Prince, where most of the violence is taking place. Travel by car from the capital to the resort takes six to eight hours.

The resort features a roller coaster, fishing and jet-ski areas, cabanas and beach access. Private security protects cruise ship customers when Royal Caribbean’s ships stop there.

Itineraries of six ships that sail from Florida ports will be affected by the suspension, which is scheduled to last through March 22.

Symphony of the Seas , departing Port Everglades on March 18. Labadee stop replaced by a sea day. Falmouth, Jamaica call time adjusted to 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Explorer of the Seas , departing Port Miami on March 17. Labadee stop replaced by Perfect Day at Coco Cay with a call time of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Oasis of the Seas , departing Port Miami on March 17. Labadee stop replaced by Falmouth, Jamaica, with a call time of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Grandeur of the Seas , departing Port Miami on March 18. Labadee stop replaced by Perfect Day at CocoCay with a call time of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Adventure of the Seas , departing Port Canaveral on March 15. Labadee stop replaced by Grand Turk with a call time of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mariner of the Seas , departing Port Canaveral on March 16. Labadee stop replaced by Nassau, Bahamas with a call time of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This is not the first time Royal Caribbean has suspended stops to Labadee because of unrest in Haiti.

In 2016, the cruise line canceled three stops  after encountering local residents in small boats staging a protest.

Ron Hurtibise covers business and consumer issues for the South Florida Sun Sentinel. He can be reached by phone at 954-356-4071, on Twitter @ronhurtibise or by email at [email protected] .

©2024 South Florida Sun-Sentinel. Visit sun-sentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Key West, Florida

Port schedule.

Key West, Florida cruise ship port calendar shows all scheduled arrival and departure dates in a timetable format. The cruise calendar displays the ship’s estimated time of arrival including related information such as how crowded is the port, as well as the ship’s next port-of-call.

The following timetable provides valuable information and keeps track of the future cruise ship arrivals from all major cruise lines. In order to find out more about the cruise ship itineraries such as ports, dates, and arrival/departure times just follow the ship’s link.

• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 04 May 2024 - 07:00
• Carnival Dream 4.533 passengers 06 May 2024 - 10:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 07 May 2024 - 07:00
• Enchantment Of The Seas 2.746 passengers 09 May 2024 - 09:00
• ms Europa 2 516 passengers 12 May 2024 - 09:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 13 May 2024 - 08:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 14 May 2024 - 07:00
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 16 May 2024 - 08:00
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 18 May 2024 - 07:00
• Carnival Dream 4.533 passengers 20 May 2024 - 10:00
• Norwegian Sky 2.405 passengers 24 May 2024 - 07:00
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 25 May 2024 - 09:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 27 May 2024 - 08:00
• Carnival Liberty 3.574 passengers 28 May 2024 - 08:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 29 May 2024 - 07:00
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 30 May 2024 - 08:00
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 01 Jun 2024 - 09:00
• Carnival Dream 4.533 passengers 03 Jun 2024 - 10:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 04 Jun 2024 - 07:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 08 Jun 2024 - 07:00
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 04 May 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Dream 4.533 passengers 06 May 2024 - 18:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 07 May 2024 - 15:00
• Enchantment Of The Seas 2.746 passengers 09 May 2024 - 17:00
• ms Europa 2 516 passengers 12 May 2024 - 17:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 13 May 2024 - 17:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 14 May 2024 - 15:00
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 16 May 2024 - 17:00
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 18 May 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Dream 4.533 passengers 20 May 2024 - 18:00
• Norwegian Sky 2.405 passengers 24 May 2024 - 14:00
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 25 May 2024 - 18:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 27 May 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Liberty 3.574 passengers 28 May 2024 - 16:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 29 May 2024 - 15:00
• Valiant Lady 2.860 passengers 30 May 2024 - 17:00
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 01 Jun 2024 - 18:00
• Carnival Dream 4.533 passengers 03 Jun 2024 - 18:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 04 Jun 2024 - 16:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 08 Jun 2024 - 16:00

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

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How Long Does It Take To Stop A Cruise Ship

Published: December 13, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Ddene Roberto

• Sustainability

Introduction

When it comes to cruise ships, one often wonders how long it takes to bring such a massive vessel to a stop. With their immense size and weight, it’s understandable to question the stopping capabilities of these floating behemoths. The answer is not as straightforward as one might expect, as several factors come into play.

Cruise ships are marvels of engineering, designed to navigate the vast open seas while offering comfort and luxury to passengers. These vessels can reach impressive speeds, often surpassing 20 knots (23 miles per hour). However, it’s important to note that they aren’t built for sudden stops like cars or smaller boats. Stopping a cruise ship requires careful planning and advanced systems to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

In this article, we will delve into the world of cruise ships, exploring the factors that influence stopping time, the technology behind their braking systems, emergency stopping procedures, and how varying conditions can affect stopping distances. We will also look at notable cruise ship stopping incidents to gain a better understanding of the challenges involved.

So, if you’ve ever wondered just how long it takes to stop a cruise ship, buckle up and join us on this informative journey!

Understanding Cruise Ships

Before we delve into the intricacies of stopping a cruise ship, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of these impressive vessels. Cruise ships are floating resorts that offer a wide range of amenities and activities to cater to the needs of passengers during their voyage. They are designed to provide comfort, entertainment, and a luxurious experience while traveling to various ports of call.

Cruise ships come in different sizes, ranging from smaller vessels that can accommodate a few hundred passengers to gigantic mega-ships that can carry several thousand people. These ships are equipped with multiple decks and feature everything from swimming pools, restaurants, spas, theaters, casinos, and even shopping malls. They are designed to offer a wide range of entertainment options and activities to keep passengers engaged throughout their voyage.

These vessels are powered by large engines that propel them through the water. They rely on advanced navigation systems and skilled crew members to ensure safe passage. Cruise ships are built with stability in mind, featuring stabilization systems to minimize the effects of rough seas and provide a comfortable ride for passengers.

It’s important to note that cruise ships are not designed for quick maneuvering or sudden stops like smaller boats. Due to their size, weight, and the momentum they carry when in motion, bringing a cruise ship to a stop requires careful planning and specialized systems.

In the next section, we will explore the factors that influence the stopping time of a cruise ship, providing a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the crew when it comes to halting these massive vessels.

Factors Affecting Stopping Time

Stopping a cruise ship involves a combination of factors that influence the time it takes for the vessel to come to a complete halt. Let’s take a closer look at the key factors that affect the stopping time of a cruise ship:

• Speed: The speed at which a cruise ship is traveling plays a significant role in determining the stopping time. Just like with any other vehicle, the higher the speed, the longer it takes to bring the ship to a stop. Cruise ships can reach speeds of over 20 knots (23 miles per hour) on average, and it requires a coordinated effort to slow down and eventually stop the vessel.
• Size and Weight: Cruise ships are massive structures made of steel and other materials, making them significantly heavier compared to smaller boats. The size and weight of a cruise ship impact its stopping distance. The momentum created by the ship’s mass requires more time and effort to counteract, making it crucial to start the stopping process well in advance.
• Environmental Conditions: The environment in which a cruise ship is operating also affects its stopping time. Factors such as wind, waves, and currents can impact the ship’s movement and require additional time to bring it to a stop. Adverse weather conditions can make the stopping process more challenging, requiring the crew to adapt accordingly.
• Braking Systems: Cruise ships are equipped with advanced braking systems specifically designed to slow down and stop the vessel. These systems include bow thrusters, propellers, and rudders, which help to maneuver and control the ship’s speed. The effectiveness and efficiency of these braking systems play a vital role in the stopping process.
• Distance to Stop: The distance required to bring a cruise ship to a complete stop depends on the factors mentioned above. A ship traveling at higher speeds or in unfavorable environmental conditions will require a more extended distance to decelerate and halt safely. The crew must consider these factors when planning the stopping procedure.

Considering these factors, cruise ship captains and their crew members must carefully assess the situation and take proactive measures to ensure a smooth and safe stopping process. By understanding the complexities involved in stopping a cruise ship, we can appreciate the expertise and precision required of the crew to navigate these massive vessels effectively.

Braking Systems on Cruise Ships

Cruise ships are equipped with advanced braking systems to control their speed and bring them to a stop. These systems work in conjunction with the ship’s engines and propulsion systems to safely slow down the vessel. Here are some of the key braking systems found on cruise ships:

• Thrusters: Bow thrusters are one of the primary braking systems on a cruise ship. These are powerful propellers located at the front of the ship that can be controlled independently. By using the thrusters in reverse, they create resistance against the ship’s forward motion, helping to slow it down.
• Propellers: The main propellers of a cruise ship can also be used for braking. By reversing the rotation of the propellers, they create a counterforce that acts against the forward motion of the ship. This contributes to the overall deceleration process, assisting in bringing the vessel to a stop.
• Rudders: The rudders, typically located at the aft of the ship, not only assist in steering but can also be utilized for braking. By manipulating the rudders to create drag in the water, they contribute to the resistance against the ship’s movement, helping to slow it down.
• Anchors: In emergency situations or when additional stopping power is required, cruise ships also have anchors that can be deployed. These large, heavy anchors, typically located at the bow (front) of the ship, can be dropped into the water to create substantial drag and bring the ship to a rapid halt.
• Thruster-Propulsion Combination: Some modern cruise ships are equipped with advanced systems that combine thrusters and propellers to optimize braking. By synchronizing the actions of the bow thrusters and propellers, these ships can effectively control their speed and reduce stopping distances.

The braking systems on cruise ships are controlled by skilled crew members, including the ship’s captain and engineering officers. They work together to coordinate the use of these systems to ensure a smooth and controlled deceleration process.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these braking systems depends on factors such as ship size, speed, and environmental conditions. The crew must assess these factors and adjust their braking strategy accordingly to ensure the safety of everyone on board.

While cruise ship braking systems are designed to be reliable and efficient, it’s crucial for the crew to undergo regular training and drills to familiarize themselves with the operation and maintenance of these systems. This ensures they can respond effectively in any situation that requires the use of the ship’s brakes.

Emergency Stopping Procedures

In the event of an emergency or unforeseen circumstances, cruise ships have specific procedures in place to facilitate a rapid and controlled stop. These emergency stopping procedures are designed to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and the vessel itself. Here are some key elements of emergency stopping procedures on a cruise ship:

• Communication: The first step in any emergency situation is to inform the captain and bridge officers. The crew members responsible for operating the ship’s controls and braking systems must be immediately alerted to the need for an emergency stop.
• Engaging Emergency Braking Systems: The captain or designated crew members will initiate the deployment of emergency braking systems, including anchor dropping or activating additional propellers, to generate significant resistance against the ship’s forward motion and bring it to a stop as quickly as possible.
• Assessing Passenger Safety: Once the emergency stop is underway, crew members will focus on ensuring the safety of passengers by providing clear instructions and guiding them to designated assembly points or lifeboat stations.
• Communication with Authorities: In the event of an emergency stop, the ship’s captain will immediately communicate the situation to the appropriate authorities, including the coast guard and port authorities, to coordinate any necessary assistance or resources.
• Investigation and Analysis: Following an emergency stop, the crew will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the emergency and evaluate the effectiveness of the emergency stopping procedures. This analysis helps to identify any areas for improvement and refine future emergency response protocols.

It is important to note that emergency stopping procedures are typically rare occurrences and are reserved for extreme situations. Cruise ship operators prioritize safety through regular training, maintenance inspections, and adherence to industry regulations to minimize the risk of emergencies.

Passenger safety is paramount, and cruise ship crews undergo extensive training to effectively handle emergency situations and provide the necessary assistance to passengers. By having well-defined emergency stopping procedures in place, cruise ships can effectively respond to unexpected events and ensure the safety and well-being of everyone on board.

Stopping a Cruise Ship in Different Conditions

Stopping a cruise ship can present different challenges depending on the environmental conditions in which it is operating. Let’s explore how various conditions can affect the process of bringing a cruise ship to a halt:

• Normal Weather Conditions: In typical weather conditions with calm seas and moderate winds, stopping a cruise ship follows a standard procedure. The captain and crew can utilize the ship’s braking systems, such as bow thrusters, propellers, and rudders, to slow down and bring the vessel to a controlled stop within a reasonable distance.
• Strong Winds: When operating in strong winds, cruise ships may experience challenges in stopping due to the increased resistance caused by the wind. The crew must account for these winds and factor them into their stopping calculations, allowing for additional stopping distance and adjusting the use of braking systems accordingly.
• Choppy Seas: Rough or choppy seas can make stopping a cruise ship more challenging. The unpredictable nature of the waves can affect the stability and maneuverability of the vessel. The crew needs to anticipate the ship’s movements and adjust their braking strategies accordingly to ensure a safe and controlled stop.
• Currents and Tides: Operating in areas with strong currents or tidal conditions can also impact the stopping process. The crew must consider the direction and strength of these currents when planning the stopping maneuver, as they can affect the ship’s speed and necessitate additional effort to achieve a timely stop.
• Extreme Weather and Emergencies: In the event of severe weather conditions, such as hurricanes or storms, or in emergency situations, stopping a cruise ship becomes a critical task. The crew must follow the emergency stopping procedures and potentially deploy additional braking systems, such as dropping anchors, to quickly halt the vessel and ensure the safety of all on board.

It’s important to note that cruise ship operators prioritize the safety of passengers and crew above all else. Captains and their teams undergo rigorous training to handle various conditions and emergency situations, including stopping the ship under adverse weather or emergency circumstances.

By understanding the impact of different conditions on stopping a cruise ship, the crew can adapt their strategies and make informed decisions to ensure a safe and controlled stop in any situation.

Case Studies: Notable Cruise Ship Stopping Incidents

While cruise ships are designed with safety and precision in mind, there have been notable incidents throughout history that highlight the complexities of stopping these massive vessels. Let’s take a look at some notable cruise ship stopping incidents:

• Costa Concordia (2012): One of the most infamous cruise ship incidents occurred when the Costa Concordia struck a rock off the coast of Italy, leading to a partial capsizing. The ship’s captain deviated from the planned course, causing the vessel to hit the underwater obstruction. The subsequent grounding and evacuation of passengers showcased the importance of proper navigational procedures and the challenges of stopping a ship in emergency situations.
• Costa Allegra (2012): The Costa Allegra experienced an onboard fire, causing a loss of power and leaving the ship adrift in the Indian Ocean. The crew had to activate emergency procedures to bring the ship to a stop and evacuate passengers safely. This incident highlighted the significance of having robust emergency stopping measures in place to manage unforeseen events.
• Norwegian Epic (2019): The Norwegian Epic encountered propulsion issues during a Mediterranean cruise, resulting in the ship being unable to maintain its planned speed. The captain implemented alternative measures to safely bring the vessel to a stop and ensure passenger safety. This incident demonstrated the importance of contingency plans and the coordination required to effectively stop a cruise ship under unexpected circumstances.
• Carnival Triumph (2013): An engine room fire on the Carnival Triumph caused the ship to lose power, leaving it adrift in the Gulf of Mexico. After several days, the ship was eventually towed to port. This incident served as a reminder of the importance of regular maintenance, emergency procedures, and the use of external assistance in stopping a ship when internal systems are compromised.
• Queen Elizabeth 2 (1992): When the Queen Elizabeth 2 experienced a propulsion failure in the Caribbean, it relied on its anchors and tugs to bring the ship to a safe stop. This incident highlighted the importance of backup systems, such as anchors, and the need for effective communication and coordination with external resources during emergency stopping procedures.

These notable incidents underscore the need for continuous training, adherence to safety protocols, and the development of robust emergency response plans within the cruise ship industry. By analyzing these incidents, improvements can be made to enhance the safety measures and procedures in place to handle emergency stopping situations.

It’s important to note that while these incidents highlight the challenges of stopping a cruise ship, they are comparatively rare considering the thousands of safe voyages undertaken by cruise ships every year. The cruise industry continues to prioritize safety and continuously refine their procedures to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew.

Stopping a cruise ship is a complex process that requires careful planning, advanced braking systems, and skilled crew members. Understanding the factors that influence stopping time, such as speed, size, environmental conditions, and braking systems, is essential in ensuring a safe and controlled stop.

Cruise ships are equipped with various braking systems, including bow thrusters, propellers, rudders, and anchors, which are utilized in different scenarios to slow down and bring the vessel to a halt. Emergency stopping procedures are in place to address unforeseen circumstances and prioritize passenger and crew safety.

Various conditions, such as strong winds, rough seas, currents, and extreme weather, can affect the stopping process. The crew must adapt their strategies and make informed decisions to ensure a safe stop in any situation.

Notable cruise ship stopping incidents serve as reminders of the challenges involved and the importance of proper navigation, maintenance, emergency procedures, and coordination with external resources. The cruise industry continuously strives to enhance safety measures and emergency response protocols to mitigate risks and ensure the well-being of everyone on board.

In conclusion, stopping a cruise ship requires a combination of advanced technology, expertise, and adherence to strict safety protocols. Cruise ships are designed to provide unforgettable experiences for passengers, and their ability to safely and efficiently come to a stop is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the crew members responsible for their operation.

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• Cruise Advice , Destinations

Bimini Cruise Port: Everything You Need To Know

Doug Parker

• July 26, 2021

A new port joins Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas, giving cruisers more of a selection when choosing a Bahamian itinerary.

In July 2021, Resorts World Bimini Cruise Port welcomed its first cruise ship when  Crystal Serenity  docked with cruise passengers. Four days later, Carnival Cruise Line made its first call there with Carnival Horizon.

Located 55 nautical miles off the coast of Miami, the Bimini Islands is primarily a beach destination with some added history tours sprinkled in. With a total population of under 2,000 people living there, it’s practically untouched, with the exception of a few resorts.

Bimini is actually made up of two islands, North and South Bimini. The cruise port is on North Bimini, and the airport is on South Bimini. You can take a quick ride between the two islands with the local ferry service at $8 per person each way.

The island is 62 miles south of Grand Bahama Island, 127 miles northwest of Nassau, 77 miles from West Palm Beach, and 58 miles from Port Everglades.

This island was called Virgin Voyages’ private resort destination . However, Virgin is only utilizing a beach and beach club on Bimini, which is open to other cruise passengers when a Virgin ship is not there.

Pier Location

The Resorts World Bimini Cruise Port is a new cruise port that can now hold the largest cruise ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class vessels (225,000 gross tons).

The ship docks in East Bimini. The pier was originally built for the now-defunct Bimini Superfast but was recently expanded to accommodate the world’s largest cruise vessels.

There’s a charm to the pier because it’s so new to major cruise lines, and it hasn’t been developed or overrun by Caribbean staple shops like Diamonds International.

Aside from cruise ships, high-speed ferry service from Balearia Caribbean also makes stops there, running routes from Fort Lauderdale to North Bimini Island.

Being right off the coast of South Florida, there isn’t much difference in the weather. You can expect the same weather as you would in Miami, Florida (so pack shorts!).

The temperatures range from around 60 degrees in the winter to 90 degrees in the dead of summer. Even with the humidity, the breeze off the ocean tends to make it feel a bit cooler.

The water temperatures average between 77 degrees in the winter and 87 degrees in the summer.

Legal tender is the Bahamian dollar ($BSD), but US currency is accepted and usually given as change in the Bahamas. If paying in cash, make sure to confirm you’re getting a change in US currency.

There are ATM machines around the resorts, but expect to pay a steep service fee to access them. Credit cards and digital payments are also accepted at most locations on the island, especially at the large resorts.

READ MORE:  16 Photos of Half Moon Cay, Bahamas [2021]

Getting Around

Even though the island is only seven miles long, you may want to find a way to get around.

A Resorts Worlds tram service makes select stops around the island and operates every 30 minutes. These trams have marked pick-up locations and will take you to different Resorts World properties from the cruise ship. (Note: they only operate between Resorts World properties.)

Anyone can use the Resorts World tram. Just keep in mind it will take you to one of their properties where you can go to a casino, beach, or eat.

Taxi rates will vary by where you want to go, but the common fare was $5 per person to most locations. The cruise pier is at the midway point of the island, so it’s equal distance to both the northern and southern areas.

By Golf Cart

A couple of golf cart rental companies on the island charge around $90 per day for a four-seater and $120 per day for a six-seater. With little traffic on the island, it’s an easy and stress-free way to explore on your own timetable.

If you’re sticking close to the pier, you can obviously walk to your destination. The Resorts World Hilton is about a 10-minute walk from the ship.

To explore beyond that, however, you’ll want to find a form of transportation — if only because of the heat!

As I mentioned earlier, one charm of Bimini is that it hasn’t been overdeveloped, especially when it comes to the area around the pier. As it becomes more popular in the coming years, that’s likely to change, but for now, it’s one of the things that makes this port so appealing.

A small market with a few shops is just south of the cruise pier. Otherwise, you’re limited to shopping at one of the Resorts World properties if you’re looking to pick up a souvenir.

While shopping for basic necessities, keep in mind that you are on an island with limited resources, so items in the resort gift shops tend to be on the pricey side as they all have to be imported from the mainland.

What To Do in Bimini

Bimini is primarily a beach destination that focuses on water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming with sharks, and jet skiing.

If you want to explore on your own, you can rent a golf cart or set out with food (and plenty of water to stay hydrated) and explore the island.

Cruise lines offer around a dozen shore excursions in Bimini, but if you’re looking for something a little different, we’ve listed some things to do in the area. If this is your first time visiting Bimini, here are some suggestions.

Local Beaches

Some of the quietest and best beaches in Bimini run together on the southwestern side of the island in Alice Town: Radio Beach, Blister Beach, and Spook Hill.

There is also a string of beaches north of the resort area’s cruise port. Keep in mind that you’ll be required to pay a fee if you’d like to use a sun chair, resort facilities, pool, or a lounger.

Beach Club 360

Typically sold by the cruise line, this new private beach package is good if you’re looking to spend a day at the beach. Located right next to Resorts World Bimini Beach, the stretch of beach has some of the clearest turquoise waters in the Bahamas.

The club has options to rent cabanas, umbrellas, and beach chairs. The price of varies depending on your cruise line and which add-ons you’d like. This premium beachfront complex has two lagoon pools, swim-up bars, DJs playing music, and plenty of beachfront property.

Explore a Shipwreck

You can set up a trip out to the SS Sapona wreck through one of the resorts. The World War I ship ran aground during a hurricane in 1926 and has remained ever since. The artificial reef is filled with sea life. This can be booked at Resorts World or in advance.

Historic Attractions

Bimini’s rich history is seen throughout the island, like the SS Sapona wreck we mentioned. You can explore some of the local histories at Bimini Museum, where you’ll learn about some of the famous folks who’ve made the island their home over the years (including former resident Ernest Hemingway).

There is no charge to enter the museum, but they do take donations.

Also relatively close to the pier is Dolphin House Museum, a three-story home made entirely out of recycled materials, including many items that washed up on the shore.

If you’re a shark or marine life lover, you’ll love Bimini. Since the waters of the Bahamas are so warm, the Bimini Biological Field Station has a shark lab set up.

Visitors can sign up for a tour of the station and even participate in research or adopt a shark. And in case you’re concerned, the area is filled with lemon sharks, which aren’t aggressive and have zero recorded fatalities against humans.

(Note: The Shark Lab is currently closed because of the pandemic, but you can sign up for expeditions.)

You will be required to take a one-mile ferry ride to South Bimini to explore the Shark Lab.

Local Food and Drink Favorites

The local food favorite is the conch. You can order it prepared in a variety of ways, the most popular being fried conch fritters or ceviche. Conch can be ordered from almost any restaurant that serves seafood, and even a couple of roadside stands serve up this marine mollusk.

In speaking with the locals, there are two popular drinks that Bimini serves, Goombay Smash (four different types of rum, pineapple juice, and orange juice) and Rum Runners (assorted fruit juices, banana liquor, rum, and grenadine), which were made famous by the illegal smuggling of rum between Miami and Bimini.

Final Thoughts

Except for Carnival Corporation’s Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Bimini has the clearest and cleanest waters of any place where cruise ships stop in the region.

We did the Beach Club package ($64.99 per person through the cruise line) during our recent visit, spending the day going back and forth between the lagoon swimming pools and the beach.

The tram service was complimentary and took us directly from the beach to the cruise ship. The roads are bumpy, so hold tight when on the tram.

Overall, it was a memorable experience that I’d book again on another cruise to Bimini.

READ NEXT:  11 Tips For Navigating Nassau, Bahamas

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8 passengers got stuck in port after a late return. What to do if you miss your cruise.

A group of Norwegian Cruise Line passengers was left behind after returning late to their ship in Africa.

Eight guests missed the last tender back to Norwegian Dawn while the ship was visiting the island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe on Wednesday, according to a spokesperson for the line. They were on a tour not organized through Norwegian.

Two guests, Jay and Jill Campbell, told South Carolina’s ABC 15 News their tour went longer than expected. When they returned, the ship was still in port, and the captain declined to let them board despite numerous attempts to reach Norwegian. At one point, they said, the island nation’s coast guard took them to the ship on a boat but told them to return to shore.

“The captain could have made an easy decision to turn one of the tender boats back, pick us up, safely load us, and then go on the way," Jay Campbell told the outlet.

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“When the guests did not return to the vessel at the all-aboard time, their passports were delivered to the local port agents to retrieve when they returned to the port, as per the regular protocol,” the Norwegian spokesperson said in an emailed statement. “Our team has been working closely with the local authorities to understand the requirements and necessary visas needed for the guests to rejoin the ship at the next available port of call.”

Since then, the passengers have been scrambling to catch up to the cruise. Here’s what to do if you get stranded during a stop and how to minimize the chance of being left behind:

What happens if I don’t get back to my cruise in time?

Cruise lines warn guests they may get stuck if they don’t return to the ship by the stated all-aboard time.

“While this is a very unfortunate situation, guests are responsible for ensuring they return to the ship at the published time, which is communicated broadly over the ship’s intercom, in the daily print communication and posted just before exiting the vessel,” the Norwegian spokesperson said.

Cruise ships are on tight schedules while in port, said Joanna Kuther, a New York City-based travel agent and owner of Port Side Travel Consultants. “So if they have to leave at a certain time, they have to leave at that time,” she said. “It could be that there's another (ship) coming in. It could be (that) people aren't going to be there to be working on the pier.”

The Campbells told ABC 15 News that they traveled through six countries for 15 hours to reach Gambia, where the ship was due to stop on Monday. However, the vessel was unable to dock due to low tides. Norwegian said it made the change “due to adverse weather conditions, as well as tidal restrictions that require specific timing for safe passage.”

“While we share in our guests’ disappointment, this modification was made with great consideration for their safety and that of our crew, which is our top priority,” the spokesperson added.

The cruise line authorized them to rejoin the ship in Dakar, Senegal, on Tuesday.

Kuther recommended guests who miss their all-aboard time contact the cruise line to let them know and reach out to their travel agent – if they have one – who can help handle the logistics. She said the nearest U.S. embassy may also be able to assist them.

Are travelers responsible for added expenses?

Travelers who do not board their ship in time are generally responsible for getting themselves to the next port of call, according to Kuther.

Travel insurance won't be much good in that scenario, either.

"Typically travel delay coverage/missed connection coverage is due to a delay of a common carrier such as an airline delay or cancellation for a covered reason which causes you to miss your cruise/tour departure," Meghan Walch, director of product at InsureMyTrip, said in an email. "An excursion supplier not getting you back to your cruise in time is typically not covered."

The Norwegian spokesperson said the cruise line is reimbursing the eight guests for their travel expenses from Banjul, Gambia, to Dakar, but Kuther stressed that kind of compensation is “definitely the exception to the rule.”

How to avoid getting stranded

When choosing a shore excursion, Kuther said it’s safest to book through the cruise line or with another vendor that guarantees to get passengers back to the ship on time or to the next port. Travel agents can help guests find those options, or they can ask operators about their policies directly when booking.

Just in case something does go wrong, travelers should bring a credit card or debit card so they have a way to cover any costs they might incur. Kuther typically recommends bringing an ID “because you don’t want to be carrying around your passport,” but if travelers are going on a private excursion without that kind of guarantee, it’s a different story.

“You probably should have your passport with you because you're going to need it to get on a flight to get to the next port, especially if it's in a different country,” she said.

At the very least, it’s a good idea for travelers to have a photo of their passport on hand, and share a copy with someone back home who is easily reachable.

Story continues below.

Cruise insurance: Should you buy it through a cruise line? Maybe not, experts say

She also recommended they make sure their phone or watch is set to ship time rather than the time of the destination, which may be different (the all-aboard time will be on ship time). “So many people get confused with that,” Kuther said.

To be safe, she suggested guests get back to the ship an hour early if they’re exploring on their own or on a self-booked excursion in case they hit traffic or face other issues.

“It's one of those things like, it's not a problem until it's a problem,” Kuther said. She urged travelers not to expect the ship to wait. “If they can, I'm sure they will, but I would never tell someone, ‘Don’t worry about it.’”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected]

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15 Must-Know Things About Visiting Ports of Call on a Cruise

When it comes to your cruise, the majority of time is spent on the ship, but perhaps nothing is looked forward to as much as visiting ports of call.

These port visits are a chance to get out, stretch your legs, explore a new place, and perhaps hit the beach or take in the sights. And during all of that, you’ll hopefully make some memories and do things you’d never get a chance to do back home.

But before you get off the ship, there’s plenty you will want to know about visiting. From what you need to bring with you into port to what the debarkation process (getting off the ship) is like, to safety, we’ve covered everything you’d want to know.

In This Article...

What Is There to Do in Port?

Every port is unique, offering different things for cruise passengers to do. As well, different regions offer different options. For example, what you do in Cozumel, Mexico isn’t going to be the same as what you’d do in Ketchikan, Alaska.

For trips to the Caribbean (which make up the bulk of cruises from the United States), most things to do revolve around eating, shopping, and the beach. Ports will have lots of restaurants catering to cruise passengers, as well as plenty of shops selling everything from cheap trinkets to fine jewelry.

The cruise line will also offer excursions that you can book that will give you a chance to do things you wouldn’t be able to back home. These trips can range from tequila or chocolate tasting to visiting cultural sights, but most often tend to be beach activities. This includes things like snorkeling tours and beach getaways with catered food and drink.

One nice thing is that cruise excursions offer a wide variety of options and purposely have options that are good for families or people with mobility issues. So if you want to go on an adventure sailing a catamaran or scuba diving, you can. But you can also have an easy driving tour of the port with a meal.

Ports in other parts of the world are decidedly different and are more likely to revolve around cultural activities or exploring the area. For instance, in Alaska you can go on trips to see glaciers or explore the natural scenery.

No matter where you visit, however, there will be plenty to do. 

How Long Does the Ship Stay in Port?

For as much as ports are featured when booking your cruise, you spend surprisingly little time in each under most circumstances.

Each ship has a different schedule, but you can expect to normally spend about 8-9 hours in port at each stop. Ships normally arrive first things in the morning (7-8 a.m.) and then leave in the late afternoon or early evening (4-6 p.m.). As well, passengers normally aren’t let off right when the ship docks and they also need to be onboard before the ship departs. This limits the time more.

While that stay may seem short, for most people it’s perfectly fine. It offers plenty of time to explore and go have an adventure, while making it back for dinner and evening on the ship.

Some cruise lines are opening up more overnight stays in ports or extended hours that stretch well into the evening.

Do I Have to Book a Shore Excursion?

A shore excursion is essentially a guided tour or activity in a port. This can include everything from simple walking tours to scuba diving to days at the beach. They are sold through the cruise line, but they are completely optional. ( See our full guide to shore excursions here. )

Your time in port is yours and you can spend it how you want. Shore excursions give you an easy way to go enjoy a port that you might not be familiar with. Booking through the cruise line is normally a little pricey (expect to spend about $100 per person), but offers an amazing amount of convenience. In our experience, we’ve always thought prices were high when booking, but afterward always felt like they were worth the money.

But if you want to save cash, or simply want to take it easy, then you don’t have to book anything. In fact, many people simply go explore ports on their own instead of being part of a bigger tour.

Do You Have to Get Off the Ship in Port?

When you are on a cruise, the ship is your home away from home. And just like at home, you don’t have to go anywhere if you don’t want. Getting off the ship is optional.

In fact, many people enjoy staying onboard while in port as the ship is much calmer with fewer people. While there aren’t as many crew-led activities, the ship is still open. Meals are still served, and services like the spa, shopping, and more are also open. (The casino will likely be closed, however.)

For some, ports of call can be more fun on the ship than off.

What Is the Debarkation Process in Port Like?

You might think that getting off the ship is as simple as just walking off when you’re ready. It’s slightly more complicated than that.

First, once the ship docks in port, expect it to take about 30 minutes for the ship to be cleared by the authorities to let passengers off. At that point there will be an announcement that you are free to go ashore.

At this time you’ll head down to the gangway deck. Early in the day there will likely be a line to leave the ship. As you leave the security staff will scan your keycard, which lets them know you are off the vessel.

If the ship is anchored offshore (some ports are too shallow or don’t have the facilities to dock large ships), then you will be tendered to shore. The tender is a smaller boat that carries dozens of passengers at once into the port of call.

If your ship is docked at a pier, you then simply walk off the ship and head into shore. It can be a long way from the pier to land, and there are often shuttles for those with mobility issues.

What’s the Embarkation Process Like?

Ready to get back on the ship? You can head back anytime. When you leave the ship, the staff will let you know if you need your keycard and ID to get back on, or just your keycard. These days it’s a good idea just to bring both items with you as more ports seem to be requiring them to return to the ship.

When you’re ready to go back, there is often a checkpoint on land where you’ll show your ship keycard and/or ID. This is to ensure only cruise passengers are heading back to the ship. Show the security officer your card, and you’ll then be able to access the pier to get back. (Note: Some ports have started a security screening on land as well, with metal detectors and x-ray machines.)

Once at the ship, you’ll head through a security checkpoint with a metal detector and an x-ray for your belongings. If you bring any alcohol back on the ship with you, it will be taken and held in storage until the end of the cruise and then returned. Your keycard will also be scanned.

After being cleared, you are free to enjoy the ship, head back to the room, or anything else you’d like to do.

Are Ports of Call Safe?

In general tourist areas of the Caribbean and The Bahamas (the most visited destinations for American cruise passengers) can be considered safe. These spots cater to cruise passengers, which means making them comfortable. Crimes against cruise passengers are simply bad for business.

In fact, many ports now have built up areas right around the pier that feature lots of shops, restaurants, and more for passengers to enjoy, along with limited access from the general public. Apart from vendors, these areas are nothing but other cruise passengers.

That said, except for the case of private islands, ports of call aren’t an extension of the ship. So we suggest not letting your guard down. Feel free to enjoy yourself, but don’t flash fancy jewelry or cash or otherwise make yourself a target for crime.

The vast majority of people will have no issues regarding crime in ports, but it can happen.

What Should I Bring Into Port?

When you go into port, it’s important that you pack everything you’ll need for the day. After all, getting from the ship to the actual port can be about 10-15 minutes between getting your card scanned and walking down the pier to land. If you forget something, that means it’s a 20-30 minute round trip at a minimum. Instead, it’s a good idea to pack what you need.

We have a full list of suggestions here , but a few of the more important items include:

Your Keycard & ID: You don’t have to worry about forgetting your keycard. You have to have it in your hand to get off the ship. Still, it is a must as you won’t be able to get back on the ship without it. As well, it’s a good idea to bring some ID. It doesn’t have to be a passport, but many ports require some sort of photo ID (like a license) before letting you get back to the pier to board the ship.

Walking Shoes: Sandals or flip-flops are a good idea for hitting the beach, but many people do a surprising amount of walking in port. For instance, the pier alone can be 1,000 feet long, and that’s just to get into port. We suggest wearing some comfy walking shoes as you head in and bringing a pair of flip-flips with you for once you are on the beach.

Cash: On the ship everything is paid for with your room keycard. It is extremely convenient, but it doesn’t work for spending in ports of call. There, you can use a credit card, but it’s a good idea to bring some cash for the day.

For more things to bring in port, see our article here .

Do I Need to Know Another Language in Port?

No, you don’t have to know Spanish in ports in the Caribbean. While many ports have Spanish as the local language, English is widely spoken in all ports of call. Even if you don’t know “hola” from “adios,” you will be just fine.

Do I Need to Exchange Money in Port?

Having to change currency multiple times as ships head from port to port would be a major hassle. Luckily, ports of call in North America all widely accept U.S. dollars. There’s no need to change over money, but you should know that if you pay in dollars you might get change back in a different currency.

You can also use your credit card in many locations, just as you would back home.

If traveling Europe, you’ll want euros as the most convenient way to spend money.

What if I am Late Getting Back to the Ship From Port?

Thinking you might be late to go back to the cruise ship? The “all aboard” times are not suggestions. While the ship doesn’t leave the dock right when everyone is supposed to have been aboard, there is a limited window for you to make it back. Our suggestion is to plan to be back on the ship one hour before the all aboard time that’s given. That gives you some wiggle room in case something comes up.

And yes, cruise ships will leave even if you aren’t back aboard. It’s not something you want to happen to you.

Will My Phone Work in Port?

In the middle of the ocean, there is cell service, but it is expensive to access. In port your phone will work, but keep in mind that you will be accessing via international towers, which can be pricey.

The good news is that these days cell plans often include some international access, especially for Mexico. That means some people can use their phone just like they can back home. As well, cell companies sell cruise ship and/or international plans if they don’t give you access already. For a small fee you can use your phone while in port without seeing huge charges. That gives you a chance to call home or check email without spending a fortune.

If you aren’t sure what your plan allows, contact them to see how they can help. International plans for cruise travel are typically affordable. You can see more information about using your phone on a cruise here .

Is There Wi-Fi in Port?

Cruise ships offer wi-fi access even in the middle of the ocean, but it can be expensive — $20-30 per day in many cases.

If you can, wait until you get into port. Sometimes there are stores or restaurants in the port area that offer customers wi-fi for free. This gives you a chance to hop on and check email without having to pay a fortune like you would on the ship. Other times there are vendors selling wi-fi access in the port area.

Keep in mind this isn’t the case for every port, so it’s not a guarantee that you’ll be able to get online. Even so, given the cost of access while on the ship, it can be worth taking the chance.

What’s the Difference Between Private Islands and Normal Ports of Call?

Many cruise lines offer stops at their own private islands, such as Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay .

The islands are exactly what they sound like. They are for the private use of cruise line passengers. So when you get off the ship, everyone there with you will be a passenger from your ship. Private islands cater to those visiting from the ship, typically offering easy access to beaches, drinks, food, and lots of activities and excursions. In short, they are a paradise created for cruisers and largely an extension of the ship. In fact, drink packages and wi-fi bought on the ship often work on private islands as well.

Typical ports of call also cater to cruise passengers, but they are independent of the cruise line. They are a jumping off point to go explore the area, and offer things you can’t get on private islands like cultural activities and an experience that’s not perfectly curated by the cruise line. While still touristy, they are more authentic than you’d get on a private island.

Think of the differences as similar to visiting Miami on vacation versus visiting Disney World. Both can offer a great time, but a very different atmosphere and experience.

What Else Should I Know About Visiting Port?

We highly recommend doing at least one excursion when visiting a port of call during your cruise . They can be pricey, but offer the ability to do things you simply can’t do back home and will make lifetime memories.

If your cruise is stopping at a private island and then one or two regular ports of call, we suggest scheduling the excursion for one of the regular ports of call. Private islands typically have easy-to-access beaches and things to do for free and without much fuss. The better things to do in most regular ports often carry costs, so it makes sense to pay for the excursion in these places.

Another tip is that ports of call are great if you forgot something at home. Didn’t remember deodorant? Or maybe you packed a toothbrush, but no toothpaste? Or you want some ibuprofen for a headache or more sunscreen?

To be sure, all of these items are available on the ship. Cruise ships have small shops selling sundries that you might need. The only issue is that they are expensive. For instance, we’ve seen a bottle of cold medicine for more than $17.

Instead, most ports have a small shop or pharmacy that sells anything you might need at more reasonable prices.

Have more questions about visiting ports? Let us know in the comments below.

More on Visiting Ports:

• Worth It? 15 Shore Excursion Questions & Answers 
• Heading to Port? The 9 Must-Have Things to Bring With You

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Carnival Cruise Live Blog (Day 4): A Final Day at Sea Featuring… Whales?! Plus Final Thoughts

Carnival cruise live blog (day 3): blow holes & golden trophies, carnival cruise live blog (day 2): the most beautiful port i’ve visited, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

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Caribbean cruise line reroutes ships, cancels stop at island port due to violence, turmoil

• Updated: Apr. 30, 2024, 3:16 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 25, 2024, 12:11 p.m.

Royal Caribbean International has canceled stops at its private beach in Haiti through September as a result of the violence plaguing the island nation, a private fan blog, citing messages to travelers, reports. AP

• Robert Higgs, cleveland.com

MIAMI – Royal Caribbean has canceled stops at its private port of Labadee through the summer because of simmering violence in Haiti.

In March, the cruise line canceled stops at the private beach area through May, but this week Royal Caribbean reworked cruise schedules through the summer and into September, a post on the Royal Caribbean Blog said.

“Guests booked on cruises in the summer and early fall are getting notifications from Royal Caribbean that their visits to Labadee have been canceled,” the blog said. “On Tuesday (April 23), cruisers began to share updates they received from Royal Caribbean that their itineraries have been updated to drop Labadee and replace it with another port or a sea day.”

Labadee is a beach area on a peninsula in northern Haiti near Cap-Haitien used exclusively by Royal Caribbean. The cruise line has its own security force at the site, which is walled off from the rest of the country.

The 260-acre site has been leased by Royal Caribbean since the 1980s. It is about a six-hour drive from Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, and thus far has not seen any incidents of violence, the blog said.

More than 2,500 people were killed or injured in gang violence from January to March across Haiti, a more than 50% increase from the same period last year, according to a report Friday by the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. The vast majority of violence is in Port-au-Prince .

Cap-Haitien, Haiti’s former capital, has been spared much of the violence and is going through a bit of a resurgence, The Associated Press said . Business owners, anxious parents and even historic state ceremonies have been relocating there, and that began even before gangs started attacking key government infrastructure in Port-au-Prince in late February.

Royal Caribbean International had no formal announcements of the changes posted to its website. Royal Caribbean Blog is an unofficial site for fans of the cruise line and is not affiliated with Royal Caribbean International.

But it cited chatter and messages from cruise ticket holders about changes to their itinerary that showed stops at Labadee were being canceled and replaced with either an extra day of cruising at sea or stops in alternate ports.

A notice from the cruise line, reposted on the blog, informed guests about the change in travel plans, without explicitly mentioning the violence.

“Due to the continuing situation in Haiti, we’ll now visit Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, instead of Labadee, Haiti,” the notice reads. “We’re sorry for the change – your safety is our top priority. Nevertheless, we’re excited to visit a new port with you!”

Grand Turk is the capital island in the Turks and Caicos archipelago north of Haiti.

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Royal Caribbean is canceling all stops at this private island port due to over 2,500 deaths & injuries in 3 months

• Updated: Apr. 29, 2024, 1:15 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 29, 2024, 1:05 p.m.

Royal Caribbean has stopped ships from docking at a private island port in Haiti due to ongoing violence in the region. AP

• Katherine Rodriguez | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Royal Caribbean has stopped ships from docking at a private island port in Haiti due to ongoing violence in the region.

The cruise line canceled ships from docking at that port through May, but last week Royal Caribbean modified cruise schedules to avoid the port throughout the summer and into September, according to a post on the Royal Caribbean blog.

“Guests booked on cruises in the summer and early fall are getting notifications from Royal Caribbean that their visits to Labadee have been canceled,” the blog post stated . “On Tuesday (April 23), cruisers began to share updates they received from Royal Caribbean that their itineraries have been updated to drop Labadee and replace it with another port or a sea day.”

Labadee is a beach area owned by Royal Caribbean located on a peninsula in northern Haiti. It is barricaded from the rest of the country and has its own security force.

Between January and March of this year, more than 2,500 people were killed or injured due to violence across Haiti, specifically in the capital of Port-au-Prince.

Royal Caribbean International did not formally announce any changes on its website. Royal Caribbean Blog is not connected with Royal Caribbean International and is just a site for fans of the cruise liner.

However, the blog reposted a notice from the cruise liner about the itinerary changes without mentioning the violence.

“Due to the continuing situation in Haiti, we’ll now visit Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, instead of Labadee, Haiti,” the notice reads. “We’re sorry for the change – your safety is our top priority. Nevertheless, we’re excited to visit a new port with you!”

This decision by Royal Caribbean comes after the U.S. issued a warning to tourists to avoid traveling to Haiti at this time due to an increase in gang-related violence.

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Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at [email protected] . Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips .

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State investigating amid reports cruise ship sailed too close to Kauai’s Na Pali Coast

KAUAI (HawaiiNewsNow) - The state Land Department is investigating after Kauai advocates say a cruise ship got too close to shore at the Na Pali Coast.

Kauai community advocates said the ship appeared to be in very shallow water and about 1,000 feet offshore.

According to Celebrity Cruise’s website, the Celebrity Edge is advertising Hawaii cruises from Vancouver.

But a passenger told HNN they came from Sydney, Australia.

“It’s just plain wrong to be in that close to the shore. Period,” said resident Presley Wann.

“I find it very offensive, very upsetting because of the lack of protocol.”

One Na Pali tour manager and captain says it’s the first time he’s seen an incident like this.

“I’ve never seen this in 20 years of Na Pali Coast tours in my life. It’s mind blown,” said Sam Martin.

The DLNR said it’s “aware of the situation and is investigating. We are also consulting our partners with the U.S. Coast Guard and state Department of Transportation on this matter. We have nothing more to add at this time.”

Added state DOCARE Enforcement Chief Jason Redulla: “We’ve received numerous reports. Our officers on the island of Kauai and in Honolulu are working this case.”

Wann worries about cultural and environmental impacts.

“Some of the shots that were taken from the air actually showed the sand being disturbed at the bottom so all of these environmental impacts that it created was very upsetting to me,” said Wann.

The ship was docked at Honolulu Harbor on Wednesday and Wann met with the state Boating Division.

“I understand that that DLNR has taken at least one of their agencies and may have been on board taking statements from the cruise ship,” said Wann.

Hawaii administrative rules mention a 3,000 foot seaward from shore rule and commercial vessels with more than 50 passengers are not permitted to operate with Na Pali Coast Ocean waters.

Copyright 2024 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.

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Santorini Island (Thira, Greece)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Mediterranean - Black Sea

Local Time 2024-05-04 03:10

Port Santorini Island cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Santorini Island, Thira, Greece. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Santorini Island (Greece) is among the most popular ports of call on Eastern Mediterranean/Aegean cruises. The island is in the Aegan Sea and is the southernmost of the Greek Cycladic Islands.

Santorini (aka Thera/Thira) covers a total area of approx 91 km2 (35 mi2) and has population around 15,000.

The island's largest town and principal port is Fira/Thira (locode GRJTR).

Santorini Island is essentially what remained after an enormous volcanic eruption which destroyed the earliest settlements on a formerly single isle, and created the geological caldera. A large central, rectangular lagoon, measuring about 12x7 km (7,5x4,3 mi), is surrounded via 300 m (980 ft) high, steep cliffs on 3 sides. The depth of the caldera is 400 m (1312 ft), which makes it impossible for any but the biggest ships to anchor anywhere in the bay. A fisherman's harbour is located at Vlychada, on the southwestern coast. The principal port on the island is Athinios. Fira is the capital, clinging to the top of the cliff that is looking down on the lagoon. 

Santorini is the most active volcanic centre in South Aegean Volcanic Arc, but what remains today is mainly a water-filled caldera. The island's volcanic arc is approx 500 km (310 mi) long and 20-40 km (12-25 mi) wide. The region became volcanically active about 3–4 million years ago, but volcanism on Thera started about 2 million years ago via the extrusion of dacitic lavas from vents around Akrotiri.

The island is the site of one of the biggest volcanic eruptions in recorded history: Minoan eruption (sometimes called Thera eruption), which occurred around 3,600 years ago at the height of Minoan civilization. The eruption left a huge caldera surrounded by volcanic ash deposits and may have led to the collapse of Minoan civilization on Crete, 110 km (70 mi) to the south, via a gigantic tsunami. Another theory holds that Thera eruption is the source of Atlantis' legend.

Island's primary industry is tourism. The other main source of wealth includes agriculture. In recent years, the island has been voted one of the most beautiful in the world. Santorini remains the home of a flourishing wine industry, which is based on the Assyrtiko grape variety. White varieties include Aidani and Athiri, whereas red ones include mandilaria and mavrotragano.

In October 2017, the Greek Government ordered the raising of the sunken cruise ship Sea Diamond. The vessel foundered (took on water and sank) in 2007, leaving 2 passengers missing and 1 presumed dead. The decision was made as the wreck posed a potential environmental risk and was deemed a hazard to shipping near the island. On April 5, 2007, the 143-m ship struck a volcanic reef. All of its 1600 passengers and crew were evacuated, except a 45-year-old male passenger (of French origin) and his teenage daughter, who probably drowned. The bodies were never found. For cruise ship accidents you can visit our CruiseMinus section.

Santorini is the most popular cruising destination of all Greek Isles. The busy season for the island is from July through August. Santorini is often described as paradise and is among the world’s most breathtaking places. The towns on the island are situated atop of high cliffs and are looking over the caldera of an ancient volcano.

The closest to the cruise port Thira/Fira international airport is approx 6 km from downtown.

Santorini is often included in Eastern Med itineraries operated by major cruise line brands like Costa , MSC , RCI-Royal Caribbean , NCL-Norwegian , HAL-Holland America , Celebrity , Princess , as well as the luxury travel brands Azamara , RSSC-Regent , Oceania , Seabourn , Windstar , SeaDream .

In 2017, Santorini self-imposed a daily cruise passenger limit of 12000. In 2018, this limit was further pushed down to 8000 per day.

The island's cruise port schedule for 2018 had a total of 439 ship calls (409 in 2017). For season 2019 were handled 592 ship calls with ~870,000 passengers.

Following the COVID crisis, in 2022 Santorini handled a total of 686 cruise ship calls, which number in 2023 increased to 753 (112 in June alone).

Santorini Island cruise terminal

Cruise ships to Santorini Island dock (anchor) at Thira - port town on the western coast. The cruise port is a tender port (doesn’t have passenger terminal). Cruise vessels anchor in the caldera and their passengers are tendered ashore to the Old Port in Fira (Skala) via local tender boats (called skunas). Cruise liners usually call on Santorini Island at 8 am and leave at 6 pm.

Cruise ship tourists can reach town Fira by walking, by donkey or by cable car. Cable car and donkey rides are affordably priced. A cable car is available every 20 min. Donkey rides from the cruise tender dock take up to 30 min, almost the same as walking.

• Fira (Thira): the capital of the island is amazing place. The houses, the flowers, the sunsets – even they are impressive enough. All buildings are white with blue cupolas. The streets are narrow, the hotels are small, the cuisine in the restaurants is so tasty. The city is easily reached from Santorini cruise port tender dock – you need to climb 580 zig zag steps.
• Museum of Prehistoric Fira: located near the bus station.
• Folklore Museum: the museum is located on Kontochori. The building is a cave dwelling from the 19th century. Discover the typical household on the island. You can also find many local tools for wine-making or barrel-making. The Folklore Museum works from May to October. The admission is three euros.
• Oia: eight miles from Santorini cruise port tender dock (direction north) is the most photographed village of the island. Everything here is breathtaking, especially dinner at sunset.
• Naval Museum: the museum is located in Oia. It is open from April to November. The admission is three euros. The museum houses local ships models, equipment for navigation and more.

Santorini Island tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Cruise to Key West, Florida

Key west shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in key west.

Garden Party

Garden Party Parrot Jungle, Key West, Florida

Meet macaws and play with parrots at Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden, a haven for rescued exotic birds.

CONCH CABOOSE

Conch Caboose Aerial View of Street, Key West, Florida

Hop on the world-famous Conch Train to get a lesson in Key West history and hear local legends while touring Old Town and some of the island’s most iconic landmarks.

SQUARE DANCING

In the hours leading up to dusk, head to Mallory Square and watch as it comes to life with acrobats, dancers and performers. The grand finale is a sunset you must see to believe.

LOCAL CUISINE

You can catch all kinds of exotic fish in Key West’s tropical waters, so it’s no surprise that much of the local cuisine centers on fresh seafood. Be sure to try some conch fritters and the iconic key lime pie, of course. When it comes to bars, you’ll find no shortage along lively Duval Street.

In Mallory Square, you’ll find lots of local vendors selling seashells, souvenirs, cigars, rum, and of course, key lime pie. If you’re looking for art galleries and clothing boutiques, head to Duval Street.

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Cruise Ships Stop if You Fall Overboard – Here’s What Happens

If you are considering a cruise you may be wondering what would happen if you fell off the ship. Luckily it is almost impossible to fall off a cruise ship but there are still people on occasion who manage to fall accidentally usually while doing something dangerous like standing on a railing or climbing from balcony to balcony.

I was on a cruise in 2009 where a man jumped from his balcony so I have experienced the steps mentioned in this article first hand.

Do Cruise Ships Stop if You Fall Overboard?

If a guest on a cruise ship falls overboard the cruise ship will stop and return to the location of the accident to look for the passenger. The ship will spend several hours looking for the missing passenger and other ships may also join in the search.

It can take a cruise ship up to a mile to stop.

The success rate for finding people who have fallen overboard alive stands at around 25% and a number of factors affect this including location, time of day, and weather.

How Many People Fall Overboard on Cruise Ships?

On average around 25 people fall off cruise ships per year. In 2019, 26 people fell overboard, out of the 29 million guests that took a cruise that year. This makes your chance of falling overboard on a cruise around 1 in 1.4 million.

The table below shows man overboard incidents recorded per year compared to the total cruise passengers per year. – Source.

How do people fall off cruise ships?

The majority of people who fall off cruise ships either do so intentionally or by committing a reckless act. Railings are built to chest height on every part of the ship and there have been no incidents of passengers falling off cruise ships due to the negligence of the cruise lines.

The most common ways that passengers fall off cruise ships are the following:

• Intentionally committing suicide
• Passengers under the influence of drink and/or drugs
• Guests climbing from one balcony to another or on top of railings
• Murder – Another guest pushing a person overboard

There are a few examples where unexplained accidents have happened such as a lady who fell off the Pacific Dawn in 2018. She had reportedly gone onto her balcony to be sick due to the bad weather than the ship was experiencing when she fell overboard.

For more information on the above, annual death statistics and examples check out this post:

Cruise Ship Deaths – Annual Statistics, Causes and Real Examples

The table below shows the man overboard incidents from 2019.

In total 26 people went overboard from cruise ships in 2019. 6 people were found alive meaning the success rate was roughly 25% which is standard. 5 man overboard incidents were caused by guests intentionally jumping overboard and 4 incidents involved crew members.

What happens when somebody falls overboard on a cruise?

Cruise lines have a set of procedures that they must follow in the case of a man overboard incident.

Do cruise ships have man overboard sensors?

The majority of cruise ships don’t have specific man-overboard sensors but they are becoming more common. 30 cruise ships owned by Carnival and Disney have been fitted with V-MOB sensors used to automatically alert the bridge of a man overboard incident.

There are CCTV cameras on cruise ships but these are usually used as evidence after the event and are not being consistently monitored.

The below process happening relies on either a crew member or fellow passenger seeing the person going overboard and raising the alarm.

If a guest goes overboard without anybody seeing them it may be hours or days before the missing passenger is reported. By this stage, the cruise line won’t be able to identify where they were at the time of the incident.

The Exact Location Will be Tracked

The first thing that would happen would be that the crew would track the exact location of the fall. It can take a cruise ship multiple miles to come to a stop or a position where it can turn around so being able to know where the passenger went overboard is incredibly important.

That said tides and other factors could mean that that the passenger is far from their original location when the ship returns.

If the guest is still nearby life floats and buoys may be thrown overboard.

An Emergency Announcement Will be Made

The ship will usually use an emergency announcement to let the crew members know what has happened. All crew will be trained in what they should do what they hear such an announcement.

The crew on cruise ship regularly complete man overboard drills often using dummies to mimic a person’s body. The cruise line will usually tell the guests in advance when they are doing drills like this as seeing a pretend body fall down in front of your balcony can be alarming!

On a cruise ‘Oscar Oscar’ means man overboard. This code will be broadcast throughout the ship and the announcement is usually made by the captain.

The broadcast will be made throughout the entire ship including the cabins.

I was on board the Norwegian Sky when a man jumped off the ship, the Oscar Oscar announcement was made in our cabin. It was the middle of the night so woke us up, not that we minded of course!

On this particular cruise, the captain asked for guests to look overboard to see if they could see the missing person.

Guests will rarely be given a lot of information about the incident other than the fact that a person has gone overboard.

Authorities Informed

As soon as possible the cruise line will contact the closest authorities and the coastguard who will usually try to help with the rescue.

The coastguard’s response does of course depend on where the ship is sailing and how close they are to land at the time of the incident.

The Cruise Ship Will Stop and Turn Around

There are no official figures for how long it takes a cruise ship to stop and it can depend on a number of factors. Most estimations suggest at least a mile with many saying further.

Cruise ships usually travel at around 20-30 miles per hour so it can take some time for the ship to slow down and turn around but they will do so as soon as it’s safe.

Other Ships Will Join in The Search

One of the things that I remember most about the incident on the Norwegian Sky was that we circled round and round with other cruise ships.

I don’t remember exactly which ships were there but I remember seeing my first Disney cruise ship up close. It was very surreal to see the other ships and know why we were all circling together.

It’s not just cruise ships that will join in the search, if there are any other ships such as ferries or cargo ships these will also join in the search.

Small search boats may also help if close to port and planes or helicopters may even be sent to help with the rescue.

The Itinerary May be Changed

If a person falls off of a cruise there is a very high likelihood that the cruise itinerary will be changed. Usually, the next port will be canceled either because the cruise ship is continuing the search or because the search has caused a delay.

We missed the port of Nassau, Bahamas on our cruise, and sadly the man in question was never found.

Are guests entitled to compensation if a passenger falls overboard?

Guests whose cruise is disrupted by a man overboard incident aren’t usually entitled to any form of compensation. Cruise lines do have councilors on board to speak to guests about the incident if required.

It’s very common for a cruise itinerary to change and it happens for a number of reasons.

To find out more about why your itinerary might be changed, and to find out how travel insurance could give you a cash sum in the event of an itinerary change, check out this post: Do You Get Compensation For Missed Cruise Ports?

To Conclude:

It is incredibly rare for passengers on a cruise to fall overboard on a cruise. The majority who do fall overboard were acting recklessly and/or affected by drink and drugs.

If a guest does fall overboard the cruise ship will stop and turn around to search for the guest and other ships will also join in the rescue effort. Your chances of falling overboard on a cruise are roughly 1 in 1.4 million.

If you’re interested in cruise facts you might also like to know what happens when you flush the toilet of a cruise ship, it’s a very clever process!

Cruise Ship Toilets: What Happens When You Flush? Step by Step Guide

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Nude cruise to set sail from Florida next year: Here are the starting costs, itinerary

The "Big Nude Boat" cruise, which allows passengers to bare all − yes, even at the buffet − is set to sail from Florida next year.

The "11-day adventure" to the Caribbean is set for the first two weeks of February on the Norwegian Pearl, according to the Bare Necessities Tour & Travel website.

"Bare Necessities’ newest nude cruise is a private island double-dip with a brand new travel partner!" the company wrote on its website.

The trip which embarks from Miami, includes "an exclusive visit to an idyllic private island" in The Bahamas as well a another exclusive stop on the way back to the Port of Miami.

"Two opportunities to enjoy a new slice of Bare-adise, coupled with a beautiful selection of Eastern Caribbean island stops, will make this a can’t miss Big Nude Boat experience," the travel company posted.

Why cruises are popular with swingers: 'What happens on the ship ... stays on the ship'

A cruise to nowhere: Royal Caribbean sailing canceled after guests boarded

Big Nude Boat cruise sailing dates and destinations:

The ship departs from the Port of Miami on Feb. 3 and returns to the same port on Feb. 14.

The itinerary includes stops at the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia.

How much does the Big Nude Boat cruise cost?

Rates for an inside cabin start at $2,000 per person.

They stretch as high as $33,155 for the top room on the ship: a Haven three-bedroom garden villa.

Laws of the land (and sea)

Guests are encouraged to park their bare behinds on towels provided on board in areas including the pool deck and the buffet area, according to the website.

"Passengers can easily follow our rule on nudist etiquette by always placing a towel down before sitting," it reads. "Remember to pack a swimsuit; not all excursions are clothing optional."

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.