99TravelSafe.com
48 – Travel Safety On A Cruise Ship!
The Website For The Smart and Savvy Traveler
WHEN planning a cruise vacation, consider the following;
Do NOT carry large amounts of cash. Traveler's checks provide personal security and can be replaced (if lost). Also, carry only credit cards you will use on vacation. Cancelling lost or stolen credit cards is inconvenient and sometimes very difficult on a vacation.
If you are handicapped or chronically ill, enquire before booking whether your needs will be met aboard the ship.
With advance notice, most cruise lines and airlines can accommodate special dietary needs. Your Travel Agent can make those arrangements.
Travel insurance can often cover or reimburse you for unexpected expenses including lost or stolen luggage, trip cancellation, emergency medical needs and missed flight connections.
Before leaving for your cruise vacation consider the following;
-- Have medical and dental checkups just prior to departure to head off any potentially uncomfortable or harmful occurrences.
-- If you have special health needs, ask your Travel Agent to supply you with information about the ship's medical facility or the tour operator's medical assist options, what type of equipment is available and if a doctor or nurse will be on board. Your Travel Agent will refer you directly to a contact at the cruise line or tour company or inquire on your behalf.
Have an existing medical condition? Ask your doctor for a letter explaining the condition, treatment or procedure for you to follow. Make the ship's medical staff or tour company representative aware of your condition at the start of the cruise.
Concerned about motion sickness? Consult a physician before you leave for vacation. Many prescription and over-the-counter aids are available to control motion sickness.
These days there is strict enforcement of required identification and nationality/travel papers. Boarding will be denied without presenting proper documents. Ask your travel agent about the documents required.
Pack an extra pair of prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses and/or contact lenses, all prescription medicine with the instructions and dosage amounts.
Take a copy of your prescriptions (must have generic name) in case you need to replace the eyeglasses or medication.
If traveling to a cold area, pack clothes that can be worn in layers for warmth. Include gloves, warm socks and a hat.
While on-board…
-- Put valuables in the ship's safe deposit box.
-- Stay safe by participating in lifeboat (muster) drills, ensuring there are enough life jackets in your cabin, and becoming familiar with evacuation procedures.
-- Never leave cabin or hotel keys unattended. If you plan to be at the pool, check keys with the ship's steward.
Do NOT consume too much alcohol, maintain your senses as much as possible throughout the voyage.
Use dead-bolt and other locks provided by the cruise line or hotel. Make sure the door to the adjoining cabin or hotel room is locked.
Protect yourself from the sun. Use plenty of sunscreen and wear a hat.
Wash your hands often, particularly before and after eating or coming in contact with any touch surfaces like elevator buttons or handrails. Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.
If you have a balcony, use it safely – lock the door at night and anytime you leave your room. Don’t stand on the chairs or lean far over the railing.
When disembarking for a land tour...
-- Follow the directions of your tour guide. If a self-guided tour is planned, ask authorized ship personnel which areas of town to avoid and if any special precautions should be taken when driving a rental car or using public transportation.
-- Walk only in well-lit areas.
-- Don't let your guard down. Walk with a sense of purpose, as if you know where you are and where you are going. If you do get lost, don't act like it. Find a police officer or go into a hotel, restaurant or shop and ask directions. To avoid losing belongings, never leave luggage, purses or cameras unattended even for a moment.