cruise ship safety boats

Do Cruise Ships Have Enough Lifeboats for Everyone?

If you are thinking of going on a cruise, one of your safety concerns might be what happens in the event of an emergency and whether there are enough lifeboats for all passengers to disembark safely.

You might even have seen the Titanic when many people died because there weren’t enough lifeboats and wondered if things have changed for the much bigger cruise ships of today.

Cruise ships have enough lifeboat capacity for 75% of the maximum capacity of people on board, crew, and passengers.   Liferafts are provided for the remaining 25%, although often not required as a cruise ship is never even near it’s maximum capacity.

Modern cruise ships are bigger than ever, especially mega cruise ships such as Wonder of the Seas or Symphony of the Seas, as examples of some of the largest.

Nowadays, many cruise ships can carry 5000 to 6000 passengers on board and an additional 1000 or more crew members.

It’s not surprising you may wonder if there are enough lifeboats on board to save everyone.

Although it’s unlikely a cruise ship sinking or even capsizing, there are rare occasions when lifeboats may be needed.

At the very least, in times of rough seas and large waves pounding the ship, it can be comforting to know there’s enough lifeboat capacity for everyone.

What is The Requirement for Lifeboats on a Cruise Ship?

The  International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea ( SOLAS ) stipulates that a ship must have enough lifeboats to accommodate 75% of the people on board.   

SOLAS was started after the events of the sinking of the Titanic when there weren’t enough lifeboats for everyone.

Regulations require each side of cruise ships have enough lifeboats to accommodate 37.5% of the total number of persons on board (passengers and crew), 75% in total. Inflatable or rigid liferafts must accommodate the remaining 25% of passengers and crew. (SOLAS, Section II, Regulation 21, 1.1) Travellersunited.org ( Source )

This means that for a ship with 3000 passengers and crew, at least 2250 must be able to fit in the available lifeboats. For a cruise ship carrying 6000 passengers and crew, at least 4500 must be able to fit into the available lifeboats.

In practice, most cruise ships have more than the minimum number of lifeboats required. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder has passenger and crew capacities of 6,988 passengers and 2,300 crew for a total of 9288.

This is slightly more than the 75% requirement set by the IMO, and that’s assuming absolute maximum passenger numbers. 

Often the ship will have far fewer passengers than the absolute maximum, but it still leaves a few hundred people potentially without space on the lifeboats.

This is where liferafts come into play to make up over and above the 25% extra required.

Although it’s worth highlighting that a cruise ship is rarely anywhere near absolute capacity, many staterooms can sleep up to 4 people if you include the extra bed space but often only hold 2 people.

How Many Lifeboats Are Needed on a Cruise Ship?

Ideally, a cruise ship needs a higher lifeboat capacity than the total number of passengers and crew on the ship.

However, as we have seen, the IMO only requires a cruise ship to have enough lifeboats to accommodate 75% of its total capacity.

For every 1000 people on the ship, a cruise ship would need 75%  of that number in lifeboat capacity, or 750 people.  

If the lifeboats hold a maximum of 150 passengers , then the following number of lifeboats would be required:

• 1000 ship capacity = 750 lifeboat capacity = 5 lifeboats
• 2000 ship capacity  = 1500 lifeboat capacity = 10 lifeboats
• 3000 ship capacity 2250 = lifeboat capacity = 15 lifeboats
• 4000 ship capacity 3000 = lifeboat capacity = 20 lifeboats

For larger ships such as some of the Royal Caribbean fleet who have the larger 370 capacity lifeboats you would need the following:

• 6000 ship capacity = 4500 lifeboat capacity = 12 lifeboats
• 7000 ship capacity = 5250 lifeboat capacity = 14 lifeboats

The largest lifeboats, like those which were unfortunately destroyed on Costa Smeralda when it collided with a crane , can hold up to 440 passengers.

Some passengers may need assistance getting into the lifeboats, and crew members will need to stay behind to help with the evacuation process, including the cruise ship captain, who should be the last person to leave the ship and one of the reasons for the high cruise ship captains annual salary.

Additionally, some lifeboats may be damaged or lost during an incident at sea so it’s always important to have more safety boat capacity than required.

If there are not enough lifeboats for everyone on board, then inflatable or rigid liferafts must accommodate the remaining 25% of passengers and crew.

Liferafts must be located on the ship’s exterior, easily accessible, and clearly marked.

They must also be capable of being launched quickly and easily, even in bad weather conditions.

When needed, the liferafts are released from their compartments and connected to shutes are lowered into the sea where they are released and begin inflating.  

Passengers and crew members then have to defend down via the shutes and make their way to a seating position on the liferaft.

Liferafts come in different sizes holding from 25 to 200 people.  The larger ones hold as many as a standard-size lifeboat.

One of the largest is Viking Life Saving Equipment which holds up to 200. 

The 3D video below demonstrates how they would be used in an emergency.

Are There Enough Lifeboats for Everyone in the Event of an Emergency

It’s all well and good having enough lifeboats when setting sail on your cruise vacation, but what about in the event of an emergency?

For example, if the ship is is on fire or is it listing to one side so much, the lifeboats can’t be launched.

There is a SOLAS requirement that lifeboats must be able to be launched if listed as much as 20º.   It would be rare for a ship to list more than that, but it has been known in the case of Costa Concordia.

How Many Lifeboats On Carnival Cruise Ships?

All lifeboats can be seen on each side of the Carnival ships. 

Depending on which ship you are cruising on, you could simply look for a photo and count them. 

Although you can rest assured:

We also ensure that the number of lifejackets, lifeboats, and life rafts on each Carnival ship exceeds the number required, based on the ship’s maximum capacity for passengers and crew. Carnival Safety and Security ( source )

How Many People Can Fit In a Cruise Ship Lifeboat?

For many years, the maximum capacity of a cruise ship lifeboat was typically 150 people.  This will be the case for many cruise ship lifeboats today. However, many of the worlds largest cruise ships now hold lifeboats with a capacity of 370 to 440 people.

1.1.2.1 No lifeboat shall be approved to accommodate more than 150 persons. (LSA 4.4.2.1) rules.dvv.com Source

However, more recently, with ever-increasing cruise ship sizes and required lifeboat capacity, cruise lines such as Royal Caribbeans obtained a waiver to have larger lifeboats like those of Wonder of the Seas, which has 18 lifeboats 9 on each side.

This might not seem like enough for a cruise ship that can hold over 6000 passengers and crew.

However, each lifeboat has a capacity of not 150 but 370 people for a total of 6660.  These mega-lifeboats, as they are known, are found on many of the Royal Caribbean largest cruise ships, including the first to have them, Oasis of the Seas.

These significantly larger lifeboats not only carry more people but also take up significantly less length when all together on the ship’s side and keep them on one deck.

Although it’s still below the passenger (6988) and crew (2300)  maximum capacity of 9288.  Hence why, rafts are needed.

Here’s an interesting time-lapse video of a 150-capacity lifeboat being loaded and released with 150 people (crew members) as part of a periodic capacity test.

Where Are The Lifeboats On a Cruise Ship?

The lifeboats on a cruise ship are typically located on the outside decks , often on both sides of the ship.

They are easy to spot and are usually brightly colored orange and yellow.

The lifeboats might be partially or completely hidden behind panels or glass on some ships.

How Big Are the  Lifeboats On Cruise Ships?

The largest lifeboat, the Palfinger  MPC 49 is 15.25m by 5.5m  and holds 440 persons.

The Royal Caribbean CRW55 mega lifeboats are  16.7m by 5.6m and hold 370 persons.

The more common 150-capacity lifeboats are usually 8.1m to 9.6m in length.

Different types of Lifeboats on a Cruise Ship? 

There are 3 types of lifeboats to be found on cruise ships.

• Open lifeboats
• Closed lifeboats
• Freefall lifeboats

However, the most common type of lifeboat you’ll find on a large ocean cruise ship is the closed lifeboat.

These are designed to protect passengers from the rough seas and weather.

How Are Lifeboats Launched from a Cruise Ship

This passenger was lucky enough to get a great view of a lifeboat being launched into the sea from the Viking Ocean cruise ship.

The lifeboat is extended outwards from the ship and lowered down.

In this instance, the lifeboat was being used as a tender boat.

Tender Boats

Lifeboats aren’t just used in emergencies, they sometimes double up as tender boats to take passengers to shore from the cruise ship when in port.

What’s On a Lifeboat?

Lifeboats carry the essentials, including:

• Water and food rations for each person to last a week
• First Aid Kits
• Seasickness Pills
• Searchlights
• Signaling Devices

Do Cruise Ships Have LifeBoat Drills?

All cruise ship passengers must participate in a lifeboat drill before the cruise sets sail.

During this mandatory safety drill, you will be shown to your assigned lifeboat station, often called a muster station.

You won’t necessarily get into the lifeboat,  but you will learn how to put on a lifejacket and be familiarized with the drill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all cruise ships have lifeboats.

Yes.  All cruise ships have lifeboats.  They are required by law to have enough lifeboats for at least 75% of all passengers and crew on board. Liferafts are provided to make up for the rest.

Why do Ships Not have Enough Lifeboats?

Lifeboats take up space and add weight to cruise ships. 

Inflatable liferafts make up the difference needed to get all passengers and crew off the ship in an emergency.   These are much lighter and take up a lot less space.

The more space a cruise ship can free up the more money it can make by providing more cabins, entertainment or other sources of extra revenue on the ship.

Are there Toilets on Lifeboats?

Generally, lifeboats do not have toilets.  They are designed to be as efficient as possible when it comes to saving lives, and the toilet space could take up the space for 1 or more passengers.

Saying that the larger Royal Caribbean 370 capacity lifeboats do have a water closet.

What Kind of Lifeboats do Cruise Ships Have?

Modern-day cruise ships often have fully enclosed lifeboats made from fiberglass that protect against the elements.

Some lifeboats are even equipped with air conditioning and heat to keep passengers comfortable during their time on board.

How Many Lifeboats on Mega Cruise Ships?

There will be enough lifeboats for 75% of the mega cruise ships’ maximum capacity for crew and passengers.  For mega-cruise ships like Royal Caribbeans Wonder of Seas and Symphony of the Seas, the lifeboats are more than twice the size of the standard cruise ship lifeboats, with a capacity of 370 compared to 150, so not as many are needed. 

All cruise ships must have enough lifeboat capacity for at least 75% of the maximum capacity for total people on board, including crew and passengers.

Often cruises ships are nowhere near full capacity even if every cabin is booked.

Liferafts cover the remaining 25% of maximum capacity.

If you are anywhere concerned, you can take comfort from the fact that of the hundred cruise ships sailing oceans and rivers every day, lifeboats are very rarely required.

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Cruise ship lifeboats and rafts: How your ship is prepared for an emergency

Do cruise ships have enough lifeboats for everyone?

It's a question that comes to many cruisers' minds, especially if they're hesitant about sailing across oceans and seas, far from land.

You can rest assured that cruise lines have many safety systems in place in the rare instance that a major emergency occurs at sea. Among these systems are, of course, the brightly colored lifeboats that you'll see lining the sides of your ship. Not only are they there to carry passengers to safety if the ship needs to be abandoned, but they're also used as tender boats in a port where the ship can't dock at a pier.

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

You may have other questions about lifeboats, either from curiosity or safety concerns. How reliable are the small vessels? What supplies are on board? Do they have restrooms?

Here are the top things to know about cruise ship lifeboats, so you'll feel safe and confident when heading out on your next voyage.

What does a lifeboat look like?

Lifeboats are orange or yellow watercraft that you'll find lining the sides of the ship. You'll find two main types of lifeboats on many cruise ships: enclosed lifeboats and lifeboat tenders. The majority of cruise ship lifeboats are enclosed lifeboats, which are tough and built with superior watertight integrity, with the ability to easily right themselves if tossed around by rough waves.

Lifeboat tenders are partially enclosed and are designed for two main functions: to serve as a lifeboat if needed and to ferry guests from the ship to the shore during a port call where the vessel can't dock. Lifeboat tenders are more expensive to maintain than traditional lifeboats, so cruise ships will usually have just enough lifeboat tenders to operate port tender service while the rest are the standard enclosed lifeboats.

The interior of a lifeboat includes rows of seating, which may or may not have a seatback. A steering area with windows and a hatch is located toward the top of the vessel. According to lifeboat manufacturer Fassmer, enclosed lifeboats have no windows besides those in the steering area, while lifeboat tenders have windows for viewing the surroundings from the seats. These windows do not open.

Fun fact: When Disney Cruise Line launched in the '90s, regulations required all cruise ship lifeboats to be orange. However, Disney wanted the exteriors of its ships to match the colors of Mickey Mouse, so it requested an exemption to paint its lifeboats yellow to match Mickey's shoes.

The U.S. Coast Guard granted the unique request, and the lifeboats were painted in Mickey's yellow, Pantone 99, which is a patented color that only Disney can use. Since then, other lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Costa Cruises , have painted their lifeboats yellow.

What's the typical capacity of cruise ship lifeboats?

The maximum capacity of a cruise ship lifeboat is 150 people, according to the International Maritime Organization's International Life-Saving Appliance Code. Most cruise ships have lifeboats that can hold this maximum number of passengers because it is easier, more cost-effective and takes up less space to have fewer large lifeboats instead of a greater number of smaller ones.

Despite the LSA's 150-person capacity limit for lifeboats, an exception allows for larger lifeboats on some of the world's largest cruise ships.

Related: Are cruises safe? Here's what you need to know about cruise ship security and safety

Royal Caribbean's massive Oasis of the Seas, which holds 8,880 passengers and crew members in total, was the first ship to use 370-person CRV55 catamaran lifeboats (or "rescue vessels"), designed and built by marine life-saving equipment company Umoe Schat-Harding. The enclosed vessels are unique in that they can be lowered directly from their storage position on the ship into the water (no moving outward needed), and passengers can board on two levels simultaneously, reducing the loading time. Their catamaran-style hull increases stability, while twin diesel engines and twin propellers allow these "mega" lifeboats to move at speeds of up to 6 knots.

On a cruise ship, there must be enough lifeboats to accommodate 37.5% of passengers and crew members on either side (75% total), according to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea. What happens to the other 25%? This leads us to our next question.

Do cruise ships carry inflatable life rafts?

The remaining 25% of passengers that can't be accommodated in the traditional lifeboats can use cruise ship inflatable life rafts. These are generally designated for crew members, while guests will board the lifeboats first — though rafts can also be used for guests if necessary.

Collapsible cruise ship life rafts are stored in fiberglass canisters and usually utilize a high-pressure gas to automatically inflate once deployed. While lifeboats have motors, life rafts do not. They do, however, have oars. Ships may also carry rigid, noninflatable life rafts, but they aren't as common for large cruise vessels.

On newer cruise ships, life rafts may be used with a Marine Evacuation System, which utilizes a fully enclosed inflatable spiral slide to transfer passengers from the embarkation deck to an automatically inflated raft in the water.

If some lifeboats become damaged or can't be lowered during an emergency, cruise ships have extra life rafts to pick up the slack. SOLAS requires that there are enough additional life rafts for 25% of the ship's capacity. Cruise ships have also been designed to allow lifeboats and life rafts to deploy even if the ship is listing up to 20 degrees.

Where are lifeboats located on cruise ships?

Lifeboats are located outside on both sides of the cruise ship, typically stored on or just above one of the middle decks with an outdoor promenade so passengers can easily board them. This spot is ideal because it's a central location for both the upper- and lower-deck cabins, as well as many public indoor and outdoor venues and amenities.

It also works because it keeps the lifeboats high enough out of the water that they won't be in the way when the ship docks and most likely won't be affected by rough waves. On the flip side, it keeps them low enough that they don't have to be lowered the entire height of the ship (plus, no one wants a lifeboat view from the lido pool or their upper-deck suite).

In an emergency, passengers should not head directly to the lifeboats. Instead, every cabin is assigned an assembly station, where they will meet with crew members and be escorted to a lifeboat if an evacuation is deemed necessary. Passengers must attend a muster drill to identify their assembly station and learn about their ship's emergency procedures. These drills must take place before a cruise ship can set sail.

Related: What is a cruise ship muster drill?

What can be found on a lifeboat?

While this list is not exhaustive, here's most of what you'll find on a cruise ship lifeboat, according to the LSA:

• Enough fuel to travel at 6 knots for at least a full day (24 hours)
• 48 hours' worth of anti-seasickness medication per person
• 2 seasickness bags per person
• 3 liters of fresh water per person
• 2,390 calories' worth of food rations per person
• Life jackets
• Enough thermal protective aid suits for 10% of the lifeboat's capacity
• Three can openers
• First aid supplies
• Buoyant oars
• Illuminated compass
• Hand and parachute flares
• Smoke signals
• Survival manual
• One whistle
• One jackknife
• One searchlight that can work continuously for at least three hours
• Portable fire extinguishing equipment
• Fishing gear
• Tools to repair the engine

Do lifeboats have bathrooms?

Traditional 150-person lifeboats don't have toilet facilities, but the 370-person catamaran lifeboats used on Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class ships do.

What are other requirements for lifeboats on cruise ships?

Cruise ship lifeboats must be made of noncombustible and flame-retardant materials, according to SOLAS. Modern lifeboats are usually made of fiberglass.

All seating on the lifeboat must support a person weighing a minimum of 220 pounds. In addition, the lifeboats and the wires that move them up and down must be strong enough to allow the lifeboat to be lowered at full capacity.

How are lifeboats tested?

During the manufacturing process, lifeboats are tested using water weights, which can mimic the weight of passengers in various spots around the vessel. These water weights are pumped to fill and drain with water remotely. They're placed in various spots in the lifeboat throughout the testing period to gather data on how the watercraft would handle passenger weight in various locations and scenarios.

Once a lifeboat is delivered to the shipyard for installation on a ship, the inspections and tests do not stop. Throughout the life of the cruise ship, time, weather and use all mean that — like with any type of equipment — things on the lifeboats will degrade and endure wear and tear over time. This is why SOLAS includes requirements for regular lifeboat drills and inspections.

Related: 15 cruise ship rules you shouldn't break

Cruise crew members conduct weekly and monthly lifeboat inspections and undergo periodic training so lifeboat operations stay fresh in their minds.

A more thorough inspection — by either a certified lifeboat technician from an independent company or an inspector from the lifeboat manufacturer itself — occurs annually. According to the International Maritime Organization, this process includes an inspection of these key components:

• The hull is inspected for cracks, damage or other defects.
• The propulsion system, including the engine, is inspected to ensure it's in good working condition. The cooling, exhaust and fuel systems are also examined.
• The electrical system, including the battery, charging, lighting and communications systems, are checked for defects or malfunctions.
• The maneuvering system is inspected, including the steering mechanism, the rudder and other steering gear.
• Lifeboat equipment, such as life jackets and survival equipment, is examined to ensure it's in good condition.
• The davit and winch system, including the winch and wire ropes, are checked for defects or damage.
• The lifeboat undergoes a load test to ensure that it can withstand its maximum weight of crew and passengers.

Any equipment or systems found to have defects or deficiencies during the inspection are either repaired or replaced.

Bottom line

The chances of passengers ever experiencing an emergency on a cruise that requires abandoning ship via lifeboats is extremely slim. Still, it's good to know your ship is outfitted with safety equipment to give you peace of mind when taking your next cruise.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Wondering Are Cruise Ships Safe? What You Need To Know In 2024

By: Author David Chapman

Posted on Last updated: February 21, 2024

Categories CRUISE PLANNING , ONBOARD EXPERIENCE , PREPARE

Embarking on a cruise ship adventure with your family can be a thrilling yet daunting experience. The question, ‘Are cruise ships safe for my family?’ is one that many parents ponder. Keep reading to put your mind at ease!

Safety is deeply ingrained in the cruise experience. Cruise ships boast some of the lowest incident rates in travel, thanks to rigorous safety standards, regular inspections, and expertly trained staff. These floating resorts are equipped with life-saving equipment, adhere to stringent safety protocols, and feature the latest in safety technology, including state-of-the-art navigation systems and continuous crew training.

Key Takeaways

• Stringent Safety Regulations and Regular Inspections: Cruise ships adhere to rigorous international safety standards and undergo regular inspections to ensure the highest level of safety for all passengers and crew.
• Advanced Safety Equipment and Technology: Modern cruise ships are equipped with state-of-the-art safety and navigational technology, including life-saving equipment, advanced communication systems, and emergency response tools.
• Proactive Health and Sanitation Measures: Enhanced health and sanitation protocols, including stringent cleanliness practices, medical facilities, and health screenings, are in place to ensure passenger well-being and prevent illness outbreaks.
• Enhanced Security Measures Against Crime: Cruise ships implement robust security measures, including onboard security personnel, surveillance systems, and strict access controls, to ensure passenger safety and prevent onboard crime.

Cruise Ship Safety Regulations

Learning from past mistakes like the structure and lifeboat capacity that affected many lives on the RMS Titanic, technology and regulations are stricter than ever. All the best preventative, safety, and security measures are taken, including rigorous manufacturing regulations.

All cruise ships must have compartmentalized welded construction for flooding and fire containment, plus their bridge design must have all-around visibility.

Here are the current regulations required by the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act :

• Echo sounder, ECDIS, AIS, and radar navigational aid.
• DGPS and precision position finding equipment and a Voyage Data Recorder.
• Satellite communication, GMDSS, and VHF.
• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB).
• Lifeboats and rafts must be enclosed, and there must be enough for all crew and passengers plus extra.
• A life jacket and emergency immersion suites for every crew member and passenger.
• A weather forecast system that can track hurricanes, storms, iceberg locations, and their drift patterns. 
• A helicopter pad for emergency evacuation and rescue services.
• A Public announcement system to communicate safety drills, emergency, and evacuation procedures.
• A resident doctor (physician) and a nurse.

All the crew undergo safety training, and passengers must do a safety and emergency evacuation drill before the ship embarks.

Safety Equipment And Technology Onboard Cruise Ships

Crew ships have strict guidelines and equipment that ensure passenger and crew safety in the case of an emergency. Safety equipment on cruise ships is essential and specifically designed to provide passengers and crew with the best possible chance in disaster strikes.

Here is a list of the safety equipment and technology typically found on cruise ships:

When pondering the question, ‘What is the most crucial safety equipment on a cruise ship?’, lifeboats frequently emerge as the top answer. Integral to maritime safety, lifeboats are more than just a requirement; they are a lifeline in emergencies. Today’s lifeboats are a far cry from the simple dinghies of the past. These sophisticated safety vessels are not only enclosed, providing enhanced protection against the elements, but they are also equipped with essential survival tools, including provisions, first aid kits, and a small engine capable of sustaining operation for approximately 24 hours.

The adequacy of lifeboats extends beyond their mere presence. Factors such as their quantity, capacity, structural integrity, strategic placement, and ease of accessibility are critical components of a ship’s safety protocol. Each lifeboat is designed to meet stringent safety standards, ensuring it can withstand harsh maritime conditions. Rigorous testing and adherence to international safety and design regulations are mandatory before lifeboats are deemed sea-worthy.

Regular maintenance and inspection are cornerstone practices in the lifecycle of a lifeboat. Frequent drills and checks are conducted to guarantee their optimal functionality, ensuring that in the unlikely event of an emergency, these life-saving vessels are prepared to safely transport passengers and crew away from danger.

Life Rafts And Life Floats

Life rafts are a secondary means of life-saving equipment on cruise ships. Like lifeboats, life rafts are designed for emergencies in case the cruise ship is abandoned. Generally, life rafts are used by the crew in emergencies because they are not as big and comfortable as lifeboats. 

Life rafts are inflated with carbon dioxide found in a storage cylinder packed inside the raft. Small cranes called davits lower life rafts into the sea after being inflated and boarded by the ship’s crew. Life rafts go through rigorous testing to ensure they hold up in case of an emergency and include:

• Jump test 
• Weight test
• Towing test 
• Damage test
• Inflation test
• Pressure test
• Seam strength test

All these tests are essential to ensure that the life raft can handle all the tough conditions and situations that may occur during an emergency. 

Life floats offer an additional means of emergency support in the water.  Life floats are typically open-topped and more simplistic in design compared to the enclosed structure of a lifeboat. They are designed to keep passengers afloat and out of the water.

 Unlike lifeboats, life floats may not have propulsion systems or extensive survival equipment. They are equipped with basic safety features like grab lines, reflective material, and sometimes minimal survival gear.

The primary purpose of a life float is to provide immediate flotation assistance to people in the water, keeping them together and increasing their visibility for rescue.

Rescue Boats

A cruise ship may encounter another boat in distress or a passenger or crew member falling overboard. Although these are rare, cruise ships have rescue boats designed and designated for those emergencies.

Rescue boats vary in size, but they are mostly small and lightweight, and their main function is to rescue anyone in distress, tow a buoyant apparatus or life raft. Rescue boats are uniquely designed to remain stable during a rescue operation and are launched quickly from either side of the cruise ship. 

Rescue boats are launched via davit because they are made from fiberglass, although they have buoyancy chambers to ensure stability. Like life rafts, rescue boats are subject to rigorous tests that include: 

• Overload testing
• Operation testing
• Maneuverability testing

Life Preservers Or Personal Floatation Devices

Life jackets are essential to all crew and passengers’ safety, and they are tested for the following: 

• Temperature cycling
• Fire resistance

Floating devices like life jackets are made from a reflective material to make spotting it easy, plus it is fitted with a light that aluminates once they come in contact with water. A whistle is fitted to the life jacket to get the attention of rescue personnel.

There are various types and sizes, either inflated orally, with carbon dioxide chambers, or a solid buoyancy life jacket fitted with foam.

Ring-Life Buoys

Ring-Life buoys are standard life-saving floating devices, and they are visible through cruise ships, especially at swimming pools and everywhere around the outer decks. Ring-Life buoys are the fastest way to aid anyone by quickly tossing it to a passenger who has fallen overboard or to someone in the swimming pool. 

As per SOLAS regulations, the number of ring life buoys required for a cruise ship depends on size. So, for instance, cruise ships less than 200 feet must have 8 ring-life buoys, while ships longer than 780 feet require 30 ring-life buoys.

SOLAS requirements for ring-life buoys necessitate various specifications that include:

• It must withstand a free fall into the water from above the ship’s waterline or at least 98 feet without sustaining damage.
• A ring-life buoy must weigh a minimum of 5 1/2 pounds and be able to keep 32 pounds of iron afloat for 24 hours in freshwater.

Ring-life buoys go through rigorous tests, including:

• Temperature cycling test
• Oil resistance test
• Floatation test
• Strength test
• Operational light and self-activating smoke signal tests

Survival Suits

When a cruise ship is in distress, and one crew or passengers finds themselves in the water, it is essential to know that the biggest threat is not drowning but hypothermia . ( The Titanic incident provides such an example.)

Cruise ships have survival suits, also known as immersion suits , in the unlikely event that someone is in the waters. 

Immersion suits are specifically designed to protect against hypothermia. These suits keep the body temperature from falling below 35 degrees Celsius inside the suit for at least six hours when exposed to water temperatures of 0 degrees Celsius.

Communication Systems

Communication on cruise ships is essential, especially regarding safety and emergencies. No communication or miscommunication can lead to chaos; communication becomes vital when thousands of people must be directed or informed. 

Communication comes in various forms, including:

• Alarm system 
• Public address system
• VHF radios (walkie-talkies)

If the cruise ship is abandoned, communication devices like walkie-talkies and loudspeaker systems are also installed in lifeboats. 

Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB)

Finding a cruise ship in distress on the vast ocean requires special equipment. Rescue teams rely on radio signals, EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons), sent via satellite to pinpoint the cruise ship or lifeboat’s exact location. EPIRB are electronic devices that float and send coordinates like a GPS location. 

Distress Signals

If you cannot see the ship or lifeboat, an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon is helpful, but what if a nearby rescue vessel is not linked to the signal? Flares are essential once a rescue vessel like a helicopter or boat is near and in sight. Flares, commonly parachute flares, are used to signal any rescue party. 

Red-colored Rocket parachute flares are used, and crew members are trained to shoot these flares and know how to and how many to shoot in an emergency. The flare draws attention to the distressed vessel’s location and is part of a lifeboat’s emergency equipment.

Are Cruise Ships Safe? Crew Training And Drills That Make It So

All crew members undergo drills and safety and security training supervised by a safety officer. Crew training is mandatory and happens before every departure. A pre-departure inspection includes walking with the safety officer through the ship, where safety systems, guest safety issues, and escape routes are identified.

Training includes:

• Ship Safety Orientation Training
• Security Awareness Training 
• Personnel Nominated to Assist Passengers in an Emergency Training
• Pre-Departure Safety Training
• Crowd Management Training
• Safety observation

Crew members also get training in drills like:

• Fire Fighting
• Security Threats
• Search and Rescue
• Man Overboard
• Medical 
• Chemical and Oil Spill
• Emergency Steering 
• Damage Control
• Blackout Recovery 
• Lifeboat Command
• Crowd Management

Crew are trained in all aspects of security and safety, and to execute it properly and successfully, they also get leadership, environmental policy, communication, and ethics training.

Common Safety Concerns And Prevention Measures During Cruise Travel

Everyday safety is essential on a cruise ship, and various prevention methods ensure it is safe for passengers. Like any hotel or resort, cruise ships have procedures, personnel, and equipment to handle a range of unexpected scenarios.  

Common Illness And Disease Concerns

Cruise ships screen passengers for infectious diseases before they embark; this reduces potential health risks to other passengers. Outside of the COVID-19 pandemic era, the most commonly reported outbreaks on cruise ships have been GI illnesses such as the norovirus .

Potential cruise ship travelers can consult the CDC’s Travelers Health website for updated information regarding any health and outbreak specifics.

If a passenger shows any symptoms of a transmittable disease during the cruise. In that case, the ship may conduct a medical screening of all passengers and quarantine or isolate infected ones.

If the cruise ship has left port and you start showing possible symptoms, you should reach out to guest services and/or the medical center. If you call first, they can evaluate whether someone should come to your stateroom instead of you traveling through the ship to reach the medical center (and perhaps spreading something troubling).

The cruise ship’s medical staff will provide the necessary care and take preventative and health control measures if the situation requires it. The medical center is also responsible for reporting any potential public health risks.

Fire Safety

Being isolated far from the land makes cruise ships vulnerable to various safety hazards, and cruise ships take fire very seriously. Although fires are uncommon and mostly occur in the engine room , cruise ships have all the equipment and measures to ensure all passengers’ safety.

If a cruise ship has a 2700-passenger capacity, the vessel must have the following fire equipment in place:

• Fire marshals (five)
• Smoke detectors (4,000)
• Fire extinguishers (500)
• Sprinkler piping (16 miles)
• Sprinkler heads (5,000)
• Fire hose (six miles)

Maritime Crime

Crime is relatively low on cruise ships, and every possible measure is taken to ensure that passengers are safe. Cruise ships have security officers who handle theft, assault, and other crime-related acts and strive to keep everyone safe. On larger ships, the security personnel will often wear body cameras. Cruise ships also place cameras throughout public areas and elevators to identify persons and prevent crimes, violence, or erratic behavior.

Part of the Cruise Vessel Safety and Security Act requires that cruise ships entering or leaving U.S. ports must track reports of criminal activity and report crimes to the FBI. The Department of Transportation posts compilations of these quarterly incident reports on its website.

Cruise ships have various security measures, staff, and equipment, but like everywhere in the world, passengers also have some accountability. Passengers are warned not to accept drinks from strangers and to keep their cabins locked to ensure their belongings are safe.

Many people think piracy is something of the ancient past, but it still happens today. There have not been any attacks on cruise ships by pirates in recent years. Cruise ships between Yemen and Somalia in the Arabian Sea, where piracy is still active, take steps to minimize a potential attack. 

Cruise ships dim exterior lights when traveling in pirate-invested waters and ask passengers to dim cabin lights to minimize visibility. Extra security personnel accompany cruise ships if their route goes in or near areas where there could be a potential threat from pirates.

Ship Safety

A hundred years ago, cruise ships were the only and safest way to travel across the ocean, but today airplanes are commonly used, and cruise ships are more of a holiday experience. Everyone recalls the famous Titanic incident and wonders if it could happen again. Although cruise ship sinkings are rare , the sinking of the Titanic was not an isolated incident.

One beneficial result of the Titanic incident is that various measures were implemented after it sunk to ensure it never happened again. All cruise ships in America regularly undergo rigorous inspections by the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure it is safe. All cruise ships are subject to international SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea) rules regulating all navigation, safety, and maritime security.

Passenger Safety Briefings And Protocols 

Before a cruise ship leaves its embarkation port , conducting a comprehensive safety briefing for all passengers is not just a routine but a mandatory practice. Cruise ships must conduct the safety briefing and muster drill so that every passenger understands the emergency procedures and knows how to respond effectively in various scenarios.

The relevant information may be communicated through some combination of video and life demonstration. Regardless of the precise communication methods, passengers are briefed on how to locate and use life jackets, identify muster stations, and the process of evacuation. By familiarizing passengers with these procedures, the aim is to ensure a well-organized and calm response, minimizing confusion and chaos in the rare event of an emergency.

Cruise Muster Station And Muster Drill

The safety briefing onboard a crew ship starts with a muster drill. Muster means ” To assemble,” it happens when everybody onboard gathers for the safety drill and briefing, also called the muster drill. Muster drills are mandatory within 24 hours of boarding the crew ship, per the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea .

When the crew and passengers assemble for the safety protocols, the crew briefs everyone on what to do in the case of an emergency, which includes:

• The sound of the emergency alarm.
• Where to gather when the alarm is sound (meeting point), assembly points can include places like the theater that accommodate a large crowd, but it is mostly done out on deck.
• Where to get their life jackets and how to properly secure them.
• Nominated crew members in control at the station points.
• Taking the names of everyone that should be there.
• The procedures to follow for the various emergencies, including evacuation and various escape routes if necessary.

There are various other safety instructions included in the briefing that may not require all the crew and passengers to evacuate; these isolated incidents, like theft, medical emergencies, fights, etc., are also discussed during the safety brief.

The captain will mimic a nautical emergency once the safety protocols are explained to all the passengers. This simulation emergency allows passengers to familiarize themselves with the safety protocols. The simulation also provides the crew with the opportunity to identify anyone that needs better instruction.

The safety protocols and procedures are mandatory and include everyone regardless of age or disability. Many passengers have been on cruise ships before, have been through the safety protocols, and are not exempt from the muster drill , including the captain and all crew members.

Closing Thoughts

As you plan your next cruise, rest assured that your safety is the foundation of cruise operations. The diligence and expertise of highly trained crew members, combined with advanced safety technology and rigorous protocols, will seamlessly integrate safety into every aspect of your journey. So relax and leave your worries on shore!

David Chapman

Contributor

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Cruise Ship Life Boats: Ensuring Passenger Safety at Sea

Beneath the sparkling sun, as white-capped waves break against the hull of a monumental vessel, a singular thought rests in the heart of the oceanic traveler. As they stroll across expansive decks and marvel at the maritime grandeur surrounding them, it is an intrinsic human instinct to seek assurance and peace of mind amidst this vast watery expanse. 

Cruise ship lifeboats are vital safety measures designed to carry all passengers and crew in an emergency. These lifeboats are equipped with survival supplies, communication equipment, and engines to safely transport individuals from a distressed vessel.

In these moments of silent contemplation, one might find comfort not in the huge structure they inhabit but rather in the humble presence of the smaller, overlooked vessels perched quietly on the ship’s sides, holding the promise of safety.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Role of Lifeboats in Marine Safety

Lifeboats play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew aboard cruise ships. These specialized vessels are designed to provide a haven in a maritime emergency, such as ship failure, fire, or even a distressing event like a ship sinking. 

The fundamental purpose of lifeboats is to preserve the lives of those aboard a larger vessel by providing a secure and reliable means of evacuation from the distressed ship to a safer location, often miles away from the source of danger. They are intentionally crafted to be unsinkable and sturdy, capable of enduring severe weather and sea conditions.

Despite the advancements in cruise ship construction and safety protocols, the sea remains an unpredictable and sometimes hazardous environment. This unpredictability underscores the importance of lifeboats. As the last line of defense in a worst-case scenario, these craft are vital for upholding marine safety. 

Not only do they serve as rescue vessels, they are also equipped with necessary survival supplies, from food and water to first aid kits, thermal protective aids, and distress signal devices. Lifeboats, therefore, represent an amalgamation of safety, survival, and rescue equipment, all bundled into a single, life-preserving entity.

Design and Features of Modern Cruise Ship Lifeboats

Modern cruise ship lifeboats reflect cutting-edge marine technology, focusing on increased capacity, enhanced safety features, and superior maneuverability. These vessels, although compact, are designed to comfortably accommodate a large number of passengers and ensure their survival during the precarious journey away from a distressed ship.

Below are some of the key design features and components that characterize today’s state-of-the-art lifeboats:

• Increased Capacity: Modern lifeboats are designed to accommodate many passengers. This is achieved by maximizing interior space, and making effective use of the boat’s structure to ensure every passenger has a designated seat.
• Unsinkability: These lifeboats are crafted with multiple independent buoyancy tanks, making them virtually unsinkable. Even with substantial damage, these boats are designed to stay afloat.
• Self-Righting Mechanism: If a lifeboat capsizes due to heavy seas or wind, a self-righting mechanism allows it to automatically flip upright, ensuring passenger safety.
• Fire-Resistant Material: Lifeboats are constructed using fire-resistant materials, providing added protection during emergencies.
• Water and Weatherproof: The hull and canopy of lifeboats are designed to shield passengers from harsh sea conditions and cold temperatures.
• Advanced Propulsion Systems: Equipped with motorized propulsion systems, these boats can navigate independently of the distressed ship, enhancing their ability to reach safety.
• On-board Survival Supplies: Lifeboats come equipped with essential survival supplies such as food, fresh water, first aid kits, blankets, and communication devices, providing necessary resources for survival until rescue arrives.
• High-Visibility Color: Modern lifeboats’ bright, fluorescent colors aid visibility, facilitating easier detection by rescuers.

Regulations Governing Cruise Ship Lifeboats

Regulations governing cruise ship lifeboats are established and enforced by international maritime bodies to ensure the highest level of safety for passengers and crew members. One of the key regulatory bodies is the International Maritime Organization (IMO) , which has set out a range of safety standards under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) . 

These regulations mandate the number, capacity, and design features of lifeboats on cruise ships, alongside stipulating regular maintenance, inspection, and drill protocols. Under SOLAS, it is required that all passenger ships have enough lifeboats on each side of the ship to accommodate at least 50% of the total number of people onboard. 

This means that there should be a lifeboat capacity for 100% of those on the ship. Moreover, these lifeboats should be capable of being launched with their full complement of persons and survival equipment within 30 minutes of the alarm signal. The rules also govern the construction material, visibility, stability, and other specific features of lifeboats to ensure they are unsinkable, fire-resistant, and easily detectable. 

Lifeboat Drills and Training: Preparing for the Unexpected

Lifeboat drills and training are integral to maritime safety procedures, preparing crew and passengers for unexpected emergencies. These exercises impart crucial knowledge about lifeboat operations, evacuation protocols, and survival tactics, ensuring individuals are ready to respond effectively in a crisis. The following points highlight the key aspects of lifeboat drills and training:

• Frequency of Drills: According to international regulations, lifeboat drills should be conducted by the ship’s crew at least once every month. These drills ensure that crew members stay familiar with evacuation procedures.
• Passenger Safety Briefing: At the start of each voyage, passengers are given a safety briefing which includes instructions on how to locate and use life vests, the location of lifeboats, and assembly stations.
• Launch and Recovery Practice: Crew members practice the launching and recovery of lifeboats to ensure that the procedure can be performed quickly and efficiently in an emergency.
• Lifeboat Operation Training: Crew members receive extensive training on operating lifeboats, including using the engine, navigation equipment, and emergency radio.
• Survival Techniques: Training also includes instruction on survival techniques in case passengers and crew have to wait for an extended period in the lifeboat before being rescued. This might include rationing food and water, use of survival equipment, and dealing with medical emergencies.
• Inspection and Maintenance Skills: Crew members are trained in regular inspection and maintenance procedures to ensure that lifeboats are always ready for use.

Survival Equipment: What’s Inside a Lifeboat?

Modern lifeboats on cruise ships are equipped with various survival equipment designed to sustain passengers and crew in an emergency. This equipment aims to provide necessities and ensure the safety, survival, and eventual rescue of those on board. Here is what you can typically find inside a lifeboat:

• First Aid Kits: These contain basic medical supplies for treating injuries, wounds, and illnesses that might occur during the wait for rescue.
• Food and Water: Lifeboats are stocked with emergency rations and potable water packets to sustain passengers and crew until help arrives.
• Thermal Protective Aids: These protect passengers from hypothermia in cold sea conditions.
• Flares and Signal Devices: To aid in being spotted by rescuers, lifeboats carry pyrotechnic flares, smoke signals, and other signaling devices.
• Radios and Communication Devices: Modern lifeboats are equipped with two-way VHF radios and sometimes satellite communication devices to establish contact with rescue teams.
• Flashlights: These are essential for visibility during night-time or in poor weather conditions.
• Navigation Equipment: Compasses, charts, and sometimes GPS devices are included to aid navigation.
• Lifejackets: Besides the lifejackets that passengers and crew bring on board, spare lifejackets are also stored in the lifeboat.
• Paddles: In engine failure, paddles can be used for manual propulsion and steering.
• Anchor: An anchor system is included to prevent the lifeboat from drifting due to ocean currents.

All this equipment is regularly checked and maintained to ensure it is in working condition should an emergency arise. These items, hopefully never needed, are invaluable during a maritime emergency.

Navigating Safety: Lifeboat Launch and Recovery

The lifeboat launch and recovery process is a meticulously planned operation to ensure the safety of passengers and crew during a maritime emergency. Launch procedures begin with passengers and crew mustering at assigned assembly points, donning lifejackets, and then boarding the lifeboats. 

Modern cruise ships are typically equipped with gravity davit systems, which allow lifeboats to be swiftly launched even in rough seas. These davit systems use mechanical advantages like pulleys and winches to lower the lifeboats into the water. Once in the water, the lifeboat coxswain – a crew member trained to steer the boat – navigates away from the distressed ship using the onboard engine.

Recovering a lifeboat back onto the ship after a drill or emergency is equally important and requires precision. The recovery process is usually initiated by positioning the ship to create a lee – a calm area on the downwind side of the ship, to protect the lifeboat from wind and waves. 

The lifeboat is then maneuvered alongside the ship and attached to the davit cables. The davit system hoists the lifeboat from the water, aligning it with the embarkation deck. Once secure, passengers and crew disembarked safely. Both these procedures – launching and recovering – are regularly practiced by crew members to ensure efficiency and safety.

Ensuring Safety Standards: Lifeboat Maintenance and Inspection

Maintaining and inspecting lifeboats are crucial elements in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew onboard a cruise ship. A well-maintained lifeboat ensures optimal performance during an emergency when every second counts. Regular checks and maintenance tasks adhere to regulatory requirements and promote the overall safety culture on board.

Routine maintenance of lifeboats includes various tasks like checking the condition of the hull, examining the engine and other mechanical components, verifying the functionality of communication devices, and inspecting the condition of survival equipment. These checks ensure that all components of the lifeboat are in good working order and ready for immediate use.

Regular inspections performed by qualified crew members are mandated by international regulations such as the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention. These inspections, typically scheduled weekly or monthly, aim to detect and rectify any potential issues early. 

Furthermore, certified service providers conduct more thorough inspections and servicing annually. This includes detailed checks on all parts of the lifeboat system, from davits to release mechanisms, and requires specialized knowledge and training.

In addition to routine checks and inspections, crew members conduct regular lifeboat drills. These exercises familiarize the crew with lifeboat operations and provide an opportunity to identify and address any issues.

Through rigorous maintenance and inspection schedules, potential problems can be identified and addressed before they become critical, ensuring that lifeboats are ready for deployment at a moment’s notice and playing a significant role in ensuring safety at sea.

Bryan is a Las Vegas resident who loves spending his free time out on the water. Boating on Lake Mohave or Lake Havasu is his favorite way to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. More about Bryan.

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While cruising is about relaxing, fun, enrichment, and telling your office that you’ll be completely unreachable for a week, for the crew and the cruise line there is another important element: safety.  The last line of defense is the lifeboat, but it’s far more than a wooden dinghy out of a Hitchcock film.  Modern lifeboats have evolved for enhanced safety, reliability, and even visibility - let’s look at how.

Who regulates lifeboats?

In 1912 the world saw what is, to date, easily the most famous maritime tragedy: the sinking of the White Star Line’s Titanic.  It was clear that there needed to be better not only oversight, but research into safety at sea, so in 1914, as a response to this disaster, The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) was drafted.  This first pass prescribed numbers of lifeboats and other emergency equipment along with safety procedures, such as continuous radio watches.  Unfortunately, with The Great War (later called WWI) brewing, SOLAS 1914 was never adopted by any government or other body.  Over the decades however many amendments to the first draft have been made and adopted by an increasing number of signatory nations.  As of 2017 there are 162 nations who are signatories to SOLAS, meaning over 99% of vessels in the world must be in compliance.

The Evolution of Lifeboats

The first lifeboats were simply small boats with open tops and oars for passengers to use for propulsion.  Prior to modern compact engine designs rowing was the only way of controlling a small craft other than sailing.  This presented some obvious challenges, as even with adequately strong persons, synchronous rowing is a skill so difficult that even Olympians use a coxswain.  Technology however brought forth solutions such as the Fleming Gear, allowing passengers to simply push and pull levers that drew a screw (propeller), combining the uncoordinated strength of rowers.  It wasn't until SOLAS 1948 that there was a requirement for all ships (of certain sizes and uses) to carry at least one motorized lifeboat, and in 1964 motors will still only required on lifeboats designed to carry over 100 persons.  

These days lifeboats usually have multiple motors, carry survival equipment, and have rigid requirements for nearly every element of their design.  We’ve certainly not stopped innovating either.  Until Royal Caribbean launched the mega-ship Oasis of the Seas, carrying up to 8,500 persons, Life Saving Equipment code 4.4.3.1 (for those keeping track at home) mandated that lifeboats carry no more than 150 people.  Schat-Harding however worked to build larger craft and have this modified to to allow for 370 person craft providing they demonstrate equivalent safety, allowing for the Oasis class’ “rescue vessels” we see today.  You can learn more about Oasis class lifeboats here .  Other changes in the past 15 years have had to do with the method of deployment, allowed colors (for visibility), provisions carried on-board, maintenance, and more.

Lifeboat Requirements

While requirements vary greatly depending on vessel passenger counts, routes of travel, other safety equipment, and many other factors, we tried to identify, in plain English some of the more common requirements for lifeboats, especially as they relate to cruise ships.

Lifeboat Construction

-Must be made flame-retardant and made of non-combustible materials.  As they say during your muster drill, “fire is the greatest danger at sea”. -When fully loaded with persons and supplies, must be stable in the water, capable of launching while the ship travels at a speed of 5 knots, and strong enough to be lowered while fully loaded. -Must be no less than 7.3 meters in length -All seats, benches, etc must be capable of supporting a person weighing 100kg (~220lbs)

-The wires which lift and lower the lifeboats (aka, “falls”), must have centrifugal brakes, limiting the rate of descent to 36 meters/minute. -At full capacity, the hoisting time for the launching appliance should not be less than .3 meters/second. -50% of the rigid lifeboats must be located on each side of the vessel, for easy deployment in the event the ship is listing heavily to one side. -Except for free-fall lifeboats (such as escapecraft you may see on some cargo ships), they must be capable of withstanding and impacts against the ship’s side of at least 3.5 meters per second, and must also be strong enough to be dropped into the water from a height of at least 3 meters

Number Carried

-Ships must have partially or totally enclosed lifeboats, for 50% of the total capacity of people onboard, at each side (total capacity for 100%) -Rigid or inflatable liferaft must make up at least 25% of the ship’s total capacity

Inflatable liferaft are common - but do you ever see them?  Yep.  Look on the deck of any ship and you'll see white plastic capsules.  These can be manually deployed, but they are also capable of automatic deployment, both operations can take place even when heavily listing - another requirements in SOLAS.

The above figures should be looked at a few ways.  For one, they mean that a cruise ship must have lifeboats/rafts for at least 125% of the ship’s total capacity.  That’s a minimum, and it is often exceeded.  Further, most ships don’t sail at full capacity.  You could, for example, sell out every cabin on Norwegian Sky , with no single-occupancy staterooms, yet even with a full compliment of crew, carry only 2,903, despite her capacity of 3,349 passengers.  Why?  “Upper-berths” or bunk beds (also pullout sofas and such).  Generally only a small percentage of 3+ capacity staterooms have more than two people in them.  These factors combined mean that even if a ship is only meeting (rather than exceeding) the required capacities, they may have lifeboats for 1.5 or even 2 times the number of persons on-board during a “full” sailing.   

LIfeboat technology and requirements are just one component of what makes cruising among the safest ways to vacation.  Remember though that the first line of defense from fire, navigational hazards, and weather is the hard working crew - safety truly is their top priority.  Keep this in mind next time you think your stateroom attendant is just a housekeeper - she may also be responsible for firefighting or other essential tasks.  Oh, and please put down your phone at muster drills.

Have more questions about lifeboats on cruise ships?  Comment below or reach out on  Twitter  or  Facebook !

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Cruise Ship Lifeboats: Are There Enough?!

Anyone whose every been on a cruise (or seen one) will immediately notice the rbight, colored lifeboats on the sides.

And if you’re anything like me, you probably have a lot of questions about cruise ship lifeboats.

Like, are there enough lifeboats for everyone? What is the lifeboat capacity? And in the case of an emergency, will the lifeboats on a cruise really save you?

You’d be happy to learn, cruise ship lifeboats have come a long way and modern lifeboats are incredibly designed in the highly (highly!!) unlikely event of an emergency…

Table of Contents

What Does A Lifeboat Look Like?

A lifeboat, particularly those found on cruise ships, is a brightly-colored, sturdy vessel with a protective canopy and streamlined design.

It’s designed to prioritize the safety and rescue of individuals during maritime emergencies. When picturing a lifeboat, several key characteristics come to mind.

The bright color is chosen to ensure high visibility even in rough seas and poor weather conditions, aiding rescuers in locating them from a distance.

Lifeboats are generally robust, with a hard outer shell made of materials like fiberglass, designed to withstand harsh sea conditions and resist damage upon impact.

The shape is streamlined, with a slightly rounded hull and canopy, aiding in making them stable and minimizing the risk of capsizing.

One of the most distinguishing features of a lifeboat is its canopy. The canopy covers the majority of the boat and serves multiple purposes.

It protects passengers from the elements, such as rain, wind, and sun, and also prevents water from entering the boat. There are typically windows or clear patches on the canopy to allow for visibility.

On the inside, the seating is arranged to maximize capacity while still providing each passenger with a secure spot. Lifeboats are equipped with essential safety equipment, including life vests, ropes, and sometimes even basic navigational tools.

To aid in propulsion, lifeboats can have oar locks for manual rowing, but many modern ones are equipped with motorized engines to move quickly in water when needed.

What’s the Typical Capacity of Cruise Ship Lifeboats?

Lifeboats are specifically designed to accommodate a large number of people in a secure manner.

Typically, the standard lifeboat found on many cruise ships can hold around 150 passengers. This number ensures that, in the event of an emergency, passengers can be evacuated quickly and efficiently.

However, with the advent of larger cruise ships, there has been a need for lifeboats with greater capacities.

As a result, some of the newer and larger ships have lifeboats that can accommodate up to 370 passengers.

It’s important to note that these capacities are determined based on rigorous safety standards and regulations.

These standards consider not just the number of seats, but also the provision of essential life-saving equipment within the lifeboat, ensuring that everyone aboard has access to necessary supplies and safety gear.

Do Cruise Ships Carry Inflatable Life Rafts?

Yes, in addition to the traditional hard-shelled lifeboats, many cruise ships are equipped with inflatable life rafts. These rafts serve as an essential supplement to the regular lifeboats, providing additional evacuation capacity in emergency situations.

Inflatable life rafts are compact when stored, taking up minimal deck space. In their packed state, they are usually housed in cylindrical containers.

When deployed, these rafts inflate automatically, usually using a mixture of gas canisters, to form a buoyant, stable structure on water.

The design of inflatable life rafts emphasizes both safety and visibility. They are typically bright-colored, most often orange or yellow, for easy detection in open waters.

They come equipped with canopies to protect evacuees from the elements, be it scorching sun, rain, or high waves. These canopies, just like those on hard-shelled lifeboats, have clear patches or windows to allow for visibility.

Inside, the rafts contain essential survival gear, including flares, first aid kits, water pouches, and sometimes even basic fishing equipment. They also possess ballast bags filled with water on their underside to enhance stability in rough seas.

Inflatable life rafts on cruise ships are not meant to replace traditional lifeboats but to complement them.

In situations where a rapid evacuation is essential, or when the main lifeboats might be inaccessible due to the ship’s angle or damage, these rafts play a pivotal role in ensuring passengers and crew have a safe means of leaving the ship.

The inflatable life rafts on cruise ships are available for the remaining 25% of passengers who may not find space in the traditional lifeboats. While these rafts are usually reserved for crew members, guests can also use them if needed.

Priority is given to guests for boarding the regular lifeboats, with the inflatable rafts serving as an additional option if required.

Life Rafts Vs Life Boats

It’s easy to mix up lifeboats and life rafts, but they’re actually pretty different.

Some quick differences to keep in mind are:

• Hard-shelled, sturdy.
• Bright colors, typically orange.
• Can have a motor.
• Inflatable, flexible.
• Also brightly colored for visibility.
• No motor, rely on currents and oars.
• Larger, designed to hold many passengers.
• Offer more protection against rough waters.
• Smaller than lifeboats.
• Deployed quickly, ideal for rapid evacuation.
• Takes more time to launch.
• Priority for passengers during evacuations.
• Faster to deploy.
• Often reserved for crew, but available for passengers if needed.
• More stable due to their structure.
• Equipped with more amenities like seats and protective cover.
• Less stable than lifeboats but still safe.
• Basic, focusing primarily on flotation and protection.
• Main evacuation vessel for passengers.
• Aimed at longer duration at sea.
• Backup or supplementary evacuation option.
• Best for short-term use until a more stable rescue option arrives.

Are There Enough Lifeboats for Everyone in the Event of an Emergency?

Cruise ships typically don’t have a lifeboat for every single person on board. Instead, they ensure that there are enough lifeboats for all the guests.

But what about the crew then? Most crew members have designated inflatable life rafts instead of lifeboats. These are quick to deploy and are an efficient way to ensure the crew’s safety.

Now, there’s a reason behind this configuration. Imagine trying to fit a lifeboat for everyone on the ship’s sides. That’d be like trying to park too many cars in a limited space. Lifeboats need room.

They have to be spaced out so they can be easily lowered to the ocean without causing chaos. And, there’s a limit to how many of these boats can be attached along the ship’s sides.

Here’s another thing: the act of launching a lifeboat isn’t as simple as pressing a button. It needs a trained crew member.

But once they’ve launched a lifeboat, how do they evacuate? They can’t exactly take a leap after sending the boat down, right? That’s where the life rafts come in, ensuring those crew members also have a safe exit.

Now, if you’re scratching your head thinking about regulations, here’s some clarity: according to maritime laws, cruise lines aren’t mandated to have a lifeboat for every passenger.

As long as there’s enough capacity for 37.5% of passengers on each side of the ship (adding up to 75% in total) in lifeboats, the rest can be in life rafts.

However, many cruise lines often go above and beyond. Why? Because ensuring their customers feel safe and secure is a priority.

A little extra reassurance never hurts when you’re out at sea.

Is There Food On A Lifeboat?

Lifeboats, while crucial for emergencies, are also designed to sustain lives in potentially prolonged rescue scenarios.

They are equipped with:

• Food Rations : Every lifeboat is mandated to carry sufficient food provisions. Specifically, there should be at least 10,000 kJ (or 2,390 calories) set aside for each person the lifeboat can accommodate. This ensures that even if a rescue takes time, individuals on board have enough sustenance. It’s vital that this food remains uncontaminated, so it’s kept in packaging that’s both airtight and watertight.
• Tinned Food and Tools : Canned food is a popular choice for lifeboat provisions due to its long shelf life and compact storage. But what’s canned food without a way to access it? Recognizing this, regulations stipulate that lifeboats must be equipped with at least three tin openers. This redundancy ensures that even if one becomes unusable, there are backups available.
• Water Supplies : Fresh water, indispensable for survival, must also be on board. Each person should have access to three liters of fresh water. However, there’s a provision in the rules: if the lifeboat carries materials to desalinate seawater, turning it into drinkable fresh water, then the initial requirement can be reduced to two liters per person. This flexibility acknowledges the potential of self-sustaining practices while at sea.

Do Cruise Ship Lifeboats Have Toilets?

Lifeboats, historically, prioritized primary life-saving features over comforts. Consequently, many older lifeboats didn’t come equipped with toilets, as these vessels were designed for short-term emergency use rather than extended stays. Toilets, in this context, weren’t seen as essential amenities.

However, the evolution of cruise ships and their lifeboats has brought about changes. Enter the “mega lifeboats” – a nod to modernity and passenger comfort.

First seen on vessels like the Oasis of the Seas, these larger lifeboats incorporate toilets, reflecting an acknowledgment of potential longer rescue periods and the basic needs of occupants.

But what if you found yourself on one of those older lifeboats without a toilet? Given advancements in signaling and communication technologies, rescues are typically swift nowadays. Once aboard the rescue vessel, restroom facilities would be available.

In the unlikely scenario where the wait becomes long, and nature calls become urgent, one would ideally and carefully relieve themselves over the boat’s side, keeping personal safety paramount.

Admittedly, this workaround might be more challenging for some passengers than others, depending on circumstances and gender.

Another practical concern, often more prevalent than the need for a restroom, is seasickness. The motion of a lifeboat on choppy waters can be unsettling to many.

If seasickness occurs, it’s advisable for passengers to lean over the boat’s side to avoid contaminating the interior. This measure ensures the comfort and well-being of all on board.

Do Cruise Ships Have Lifeboat Drills?

Cruise ships do conduct lifeboat drills, and they are an essential aspect of the cruising experience. These drills are not just a nod to safety standards, but a foundational practice to ensure the wellbeing of every passenger and crew member on board.

Every major cruise line takes safety as its utmost priority. Therefore, before the ship embarks on its journey, all passengers are required to participate in a lifeboat drill, commonly known as a muster drill. This drill is so crucial that it’s mandated by international maritime law.

Now, let’s break down what happens during these drills. Passengers are guided to specific locations, known as muster stations.

These stations are strategically placed, usually near lifeboats, to streamline the evacuation process in case of an actual emergency.

While at the muster stations, passengers receive instructions on how to wear life jackets, how the evacuation process works, and what they should expect in case of an emergency.

It’s worth noting that the crew members on cruise ships are highly trained in safety protocols. They undergo frequent drills and training sessions themselves, even more rigorous than what passengers experience. This ensures that in the unlikely event of an emergency, they’re well-prepared to guide and assist passengers.

In the digital age, some cruise lines have even incorporated technology into the mix. While the traditional loudspeaker announcements still play a role, many ships have screens displaying safety information and procedures, making it easier for passengers to understand and follow the drill.

Lifeboat drills on cruise ships are a non-negotiable, vital practice. They not only adhere to safety regulations but also equip passengers with the knowledge and confidence that, should an emergency arise, they’ll know what to do.

How Many Lifeboats on Mega Cruise Ships?

Modern mega-cruise ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas , feature lifeboats significantly larger than those on traditional cruise ships.

These advanced lifeboats can accommodate up to 370 passengers, more than double the typical capacity of 150 in standard lifeboats.

This enhanced capacity not only ensures the safety of a larger number of passengers but also means that fewer lifeboats are required on board, optimizing deck space and ensuring efficient evacuation processes in case of emergencies.

Safety Regulation Of Cruise Ship Lifeboats

One of the primary regulations comes from the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), which mandates that a ship must have enough lifeboats to accommodate at least 75% of the people on board.

This rule was implemented in response to the Titanic disaster, which tragically did not have sufficient lifeboat capacity for everyone.

In addition to the SOLAS requirement, modern cruise ships must also meet the following lifeboat criteria:

• Ships are required to have partially or totally enclosed lifeboats for 50% of the total capacity of people onboard, on each side. This means that the combined lifeboat capacity on both sides of the ship should cover 100% of the passengers and crew members.
• A rigid or inflatable liferaft must make up at least 25% of the ship’s total capacity.
• Lifeboats and liferafts need to be easily accessible and quickly deployed in emergency situations.

These rules are strictly enforced by international maritime bodies, and inspections ensure that cruise ships comply with these standards.

Lifeboat Operations

Launch Procedure

As a passenger, you’ll participate in a mandatory lifeboat drill on the first day of your cruise to familiarize yourself with the process and ensure you can act quickly in case of an emergency.

Lifeboats are typically stored on both sides of the ship, and each passenger is assigned to a specific one.

During the launch procedure, the crew will give the signal to assemble at your designated muster stations.

These are areas close to the lifeboats where you’ll receive further instructions from the crew. Make sure to wear your lifejacket and follow the crew’s guidance to board the lifeboat safely and efficiently.

Once all passengers are on board, the lifeboats are lowered into the water using a davit system. This mechanism releases the lifeboat in a controlled manner while ensuring it remains stable.

As the lifeboat reaches the water, the crew will start the engine, disconnect the boat from the davit system, and navigate away from the cruise ship.

Recovery Operation

After a successful lifeboat launch, the next phase is the recovery operation.

In a real-life emergency, the lifeboat’s primary goal is to transport passengers to a safe location; however, during a drill or exercise, the lifeboat will return to the ship to practice the recovery process.

Once the lifeboat approaches the cruise ship, the crew must align it with the davit system carefully. The boat hooks are then reconnected, and the lifeboat is hoisted back to its original storage position.

Throughout this process, it’s essential for passengers to remain calm and seated to maintain stability and ensure the lifeboat can be safely recovered.

Remember, your safety is the top priority during lifeboat operations. By familiarizing yourself with the launch and recovery procedures, you’ll be better prepared to act calmly and efficiently if an emergency evacuation is ever required. Trust the crew and follow their guidance to ensure the best possible outcome.

Training and Drills

Training and drills play a crucial role in ensuring the crew and passengers are well-prepared for any situation that may arise regarding lifeboats.

Cruise ship crew members undergo intensive training to handle lifeboat operations. This training may include activities such as launching, maneuvering, and retrieval of lifeboats.

It’s essential to ensure that the crew is well-equipped to manage any situation that might require the use of lifeboats, whether for evacuation or other emergencies.

During your cruise, you’ll likely participate in a mandatory muster drill. This drill is designed to familiarize you with your designated muster station, where you should go in case of an emergency. You’ll also learn about the location of lifeboats and life jackets and the proper techniques for wearing them.

Cruise ships often conduct regular abandon-ship drills that involve the crew simulating an evacuation scenario. These drills are essential for maintaining the crew’s proficiency in handling lifeboats and ensuring that necessary equipment is in proper working order. In addition to standard lifeboats, cruise ships may also have lifeboat tenders that serve as both a rescue vessel and a form of transportation during port calls.

As a passenger, knowing about the training and drills related to lifeboats can help you feel more confident in your safety while enjoying your cruise vacation.

Maintenance and Inspection

When it comes to keeping the lifeboats on your cruise ship in top condition, regular maintenance and inspection is absolutely essential.

With safety as the top priority, you must ensure that lifeboats are frequently checked and maintained by qualified professionals.

Starting with weekly and monthly inspections, you should follow a strict schedule that adheres to the regulations set forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Items to be inspected include the basic lifeboat structure and its release gear. By conducting these routine checks, you’ll be able to promptly identify any issues or potential problems that could compromise the lifeboat’s functionality during an emergency.

In addition to the regular inspections, the IMO has also recently amended the requirements for periodic servicing of life-saving appliances.

Beginning January 2020, new procedures have been enforced for maintenance and inspection of lifeboats, and requirements for authorizing service suppliers have also been adjusted accordingly.

This ensures that only credible and qualified suppliers handle the critical task of maintaining lifeboats.

When servicing lifeboats, remember that there is a specified frequency at which different components need attention. For instance:

• Weekly : Examine the release gear, buoyancy material, and any visible signs of wear or damage.
• Monthly : Inspect the lifeboat’s hull, engine, and electrical system to ensure optimal functioning.

As part of the maintenance process, it’s important to engage qualified engineers who are experienced with lifeboat systems. Companies like Survitec are gaining ground in lifeboat maintenance services, deploying highly skilled technicians across continents to provide annual and five-yearly inspection and maintenance services.

By following these guidelines and adhering to the regulations set forth by the IMO, you can ensure that the lifeboats on your cruise ship are well-maintained and ready for use in case of an emergency.

Remember, a properly maintained lifeboat could be the difference between life and death for passengers and crew members alike.

History of Lifeboats on Cruise Ships

Lifeboats have come a long way since their humble beginnings. Back in the day, they were simple vessels launched from shore, their primary purpose being to rescue people stranded at sea.

With time, technological advancements saw the evolution of lifeboats as they are known today on cruise ships: double-decker mini-ships capable of carrying hundreds of people.

As you dive into the history of lifeboats on cruise ships, you’ll learn that regulations played a crucial role in shaping their development.

It wasn’t until the 1948 adoption of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) agreement that certain ships were required to carry at least one motorized lifeboat on board. Interestingly, in 1964, motors were only mandated for lifeboats designed to carry over 100 people.

Today, lifeboat tenders on cruise ships possess a dual nature. Primarily, they serve their main purpose of acting as lifeboats in times of need.

Moreover, they’re used to ferry passengers from the ship to the shore when docking isn’t possible at a port. The dual functionality underscores the importance of lifeboats in ensuring both safety and convenience for cruise passengers.

Throughout this journey into the history of lifeboats on cruise ships, you’ll come to appreciate the efforts made to enhance safety at sea.

Continuous improvements in technology and design have elevated lifeboats from simple rescue vessels to modern marvels capable of providing refuge for potentially hundreds of passengers in the event of an emergency.

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Do Modern Cruise Ships Have Enough Lifeboats? (Safety at Sea)

Many people worry that cruise ships don’t have enough lifeboats if an emergency evacuation is needed.

Evacuations from cruise ships by lifeboat are incredibly rare – but all cruise ships must carry enough lifeboats for all passengers and crew .

All ships are governed by SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea) regulations. These regulations make sure that all ships have the necessary safety equipment onboard, and regular safety checks and crew training take place.

A Short History of Lifeboats

For over a century, Ocean liners were the main way people travelled when making intercontinental journeys.

Ocean Liner travel began in the middle of the 19th century and continued until travel by plane became possible and affordable in the 1950s. The popularity of travel by Ocean Liner then declined.

Large Ocean Liners carried passengers, cargo and mail. Find out more about Ocean Liners here:

Ocean Liners, They Still Exist: Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Although ships were getting bigger and more people travelled, safety rules regarding lifeboats were woefully inadequate.

British legislation said that the number of lifeboats needed onboard was based on the tonnage of the ship. Any ships under 10,000 gross registered tons were excluded completely.

The Sinking Of The Titanic Led To Changes

It is a well-known fact that Titanic didn’t hold enough lifeboats to hold all of the passengers onboard.

Why would she? the White Star Line said she was “unsinkable.”

The shortage of lifeboats was not due to the lack of space, she had actually been designed to accommodate up to 64 lifeboats.

There were only 20 lifeboats onboard on her ill-fated maiden voyage. This was enough to save only around 33% of the people onboard.

The White Star Line felt that too many lifeboats on Titanic would clutter the deck and obscure the First Class passengers’ views.

Titanic sailed under safety regulations that originated nearly 20 years earlier – when the largest passenger ships weighed 10,000 tons. Titanic was more than four times that size.

Introduction of SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea)

After the sinking of the Titanic, it was decided that ships should carry enough lifeboats for everyone onboard. There would also be lifeboat drills and inspections to avoid another similar disaster.

The SOLAS Convention sets out the minimum standards for:

• Minimum standards / Quality control etc
• Including Machinery, electrical equipment, fire protection, life-saving appliances, radio communications, navigation safety, and cargo carriage.
• Regular drills, crew training etc.

This is why you MUST carry out a Muster Drill when you take a cruise.

A muster drill is a  mandatory  safety exercise with the objective to familiarize all guests and crew with the location (muster station) where they are to assemble in the unlikely event of an emergency. During this drill, additional safety information (i.e., how to don a life jacket) is presented. The International Convention of Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulatory guidelines require that a muster drill be held within 24 hours of a ship’s departure from its embarkation port. Royal Caribbean International

Find out more about cruise ship Muster Drills here:

What is a Muster Drill on a Cruise? Everything You Need to Know (REVIEW of Traditional and Virtual Muster Drills)

It Is VERY Unlikely That You Would Be Evacuated By Lifeboat

If a modern cruise ship were to get into any difficulties, it is very likely that they would quickly detour to the nearest available port.

If Cruise Lines thought that bad weather may cause a ship problems, they would avoid the area or cancel the cruise, rather than risk the passengers or ship coming to harm.

Find out the ways cruise ships avoid bad weather in the article below:

5 Ways Cruise Ships Avoid Bad Weather – and How It’ll Affect Your Cruise

Emergency Situations At Sea

Some ships have found themselves in an emergency situations at sea – although this is very rare.

Some well-known examples include:

When MS Viking Sky got into difficulties off the coast of Norway in March 2019, a partial evacuation by helicopter took place.

MS Viking Sky is a cruise ship that was carrying 1,373 passengers and crew,

She sailed from the northern city of Tromso, heading for Stavanger in southern Norway, but the ship began struggling with engine failure. She started to list dangerously, took in water, and was in danger of being blown ashore.

Norwegian weather was reported at the time as having wind gusts up to 43 mph and waves of over 26 feet. 

Just under 500 people were evacuated by helicopter before the ship managed to start some of her engines and limped back to port. She finally docked under her own power in the port of Molde.

Star Princess

In March 2006 there was a serious fire onboard the Star Princess. 23% of her cabins were destroyed in that fire.

No one was evacuated by lifeboat, but this led to yet more safety improvements on cruise ships.

Find out about that fire here:

Lifeboats Used When The Costa Concordia Sank

Some lifeboats were launched when the Costa Concordia sank off the coast of the island of Giglio in 2012.

The Costa Concordia ran aground after Captain Francesco Schettino detoured from his approved course, sailing close to an Island and gashing the ship’s hull on a reef.

4,200 passengers and crew had to evacuate in the dark, and 32 people died.

Unfortunately, because the ship had listed heavily to starboard, it made it impossible to launch all of the lifeboats.

Find out more about that disaster here:

What Happened to The Captain of The Costa Concordia? – Conviction and Sentence

What Are Lifeboats Like on Modern Cruise Ships?

Modern Lifeboats are well-equipped, and carry enough food and water for passengers onboard to survive for a week at sea.

They also carry seasickness tablets, first aid kits, thermal blankets – and far more besides!

They are usually bright orange, so they can be easily seen against the blue sea or dark skies .

Disney Cruise Line are an exception to this rule .

Disney Cruise Line was the first cruise line to have yellow lifeboats, instead of the traditional regulation orange. Disney was granted special permission from the U.S. Coast Guard to paint the lifeboats yellow, to keep with the special colour theming of the ship. Disney Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean and Costa Cruises also use yellow lifeboats , instead of orange.

As well as the rigid-bodied lifeboats onboard, there will be some inflatable life rafts too.

When I sailed onboard P&O’s Arvia, the crew spotted a liferaft out at sea. The ship spun around and headed back to recover it.

Find out all about that here:

Normally life rafts are reserved for the crew because they’re not as comfortable.

Crew may have to use slides to reach them, rather than just stepping onboard them from the ship’s deck.

Able-bodied guests may be required to slide down a chute and into an inflatable life raft in a case of emergency.

Find out everything you could ever wish to know about lifeboats – and more – here:

Inside a Cruise Ship Lifeboat (Crew Tour) – Emergency Food, Engine, Seating Plan and More

Lifeboats Are Also Used As Tenders

Tendering is where guests use a lifeboat, or smaller boat, to get from the cruise ship to the port.

Tendering usually happens when the ship is too big to dock in a certain port or the port is already occupied by another ship.

Guests are able to find out before a cruise if a port is tendered, as it is detailed on the itinerary.

Find out all about tendering from Cruise Ships here:

Cruise Ship Tendering – 5 Tips You NEED to Know

When I sailed onboard the Celebrity Edge we tendered to the port of Portofino. On the way back the ship’s Captain sailed the lifeboat back to the cruise ship! Watch that here:

Before You Go

Find out more about the route of Titanic’s maiden voyage in the article below:

The Titanic’s Route – From Shipyard to Sinking (Via Southampton, Cherbourg and Queenstown)

Find out about the bizarre superstitions surrounding sailing on ships here:

7 Bizarre Cruise Superstitions (That You’re Probably Breaking)

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

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• CruiseMapper
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Cruise Ship Safety

Learn about the most recent innovations in cruise ship safety, facts, most common safety issues. This is a cruise ship technology-related survey and is integrated with our articles on cruise shipbuilding , propulsion and health-themed ( COVID/Coronavirus and Norovirus ). Follows the link to the passenger shipping safety act (in pdf format) on govinfo.gov (US Government's Printing Office website). The document's official title is "Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act" (issued 2010).

Construction techniques concerning cruise ship safety today are far from the methods used for building the notorious RMS Titanic ship. In 1912, marine vessels have been pieced together in small dockyards by teams of skilled men, which was a really labor-intensive affair - and a slow process.

Cruise ship safety regulations

According to the latest cruise vessel safety act regulations, passenger ships must have:

• Navigational aids (echo sounder, AIS, ECDIS, radar), Voyage Data Recorder and DGPS precision position finding equipment. Also communications by satellite, VHF, and GMDSS
• EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon).
• Welded and compartmentalized cruise ship construction (including modern fire containment systems). The vessel's bridge must be designed to facilitate the best all-around visibility.
• Enclosed lifeboats and rafts with full crew and passenger capacity (to accommodate all passengers and crew on board, plus spare capacity). Also mandatory are the emergency immersion suites (inflatable life jackets) for all passengers and crew.
• Up-to-date weather forecast system, including hurricane tracks, iceberg locations tracking (also calculating the iceberg's drift pattern), storm warnings.
• Helicopter pad (typically located on the bow of the ship) for emergency rescue and long-range casualty evacuation services.
• Mandatory is also the passenger information (PA-Public Announcement) system, crew training in emergency procedures, safety drills, onboard physician (resident doctor) and nurse.

On most large-capacity ships, lifejackets (life vests for passengers and crew) are stored not in the cabins but at the muster stations, which greatly improves the ship evacuation process.

Muster drill (aka lifeboat drill/safety drill) is a shipboard exercise (conducted by the crew approx 30 min prior departure). It prepares passengers for the safe evacuation of the ship (in cases of emergency) and also familiarizes them with the ship's escape routes.

Cruise safety changed the shipbuilding industry

Modern shipbuilding uses many innovations in construction, such as prefabrication, welding, and computer-aided design. The shift to prefabrication together with the innovations of welding (providing higher quality compared to riveting) have improved cruise ship safety.

Europe was the world's shipbuilding centre in the Titanic era. It was the buyer and employer of raw materials. Shipyards at the turn of century, had moulding areas, platers' sheds, and ironworks, plumbers, joiners, blacksmiths, French polishers, cabinet makers shops, fitting out docks, shipbuilding berths. Most parts of the built were made on site. Europe lost shipbuilding dominance a hundred years later, because of the cheaper Asian shipyards, specifically South Korea, China, and Japan.

After the change in the shipbuilding hub, a change in shipbuilding techniques was inevitable. Today, the biggest part done at shipyards is just assembly, but not pure construction. Contemporary vessels arrive in prefabricated sections at dry-docks only to be welded together. The shipbuilder is likely to assemble several consecutive ships.

Fixing Cruise Vessel's Position

However, maybe the most important progress needed for improving safety through the navigation of cruise vessels was made in the 20th century's last quarter: the GPS (Global Positioning System).

GPS is used by cyclists and hikers along with drivers and merchant ships. In 2010 the GPS and the DGPS ("differential" enhanced version) relied upon positioning of thirty-one satellites, and this fact is remarkable for the global scale and Position-fixing precision of GPS systems. Not dependent on location or weather, they are easier, cheaper, more precise and faster than anything before. DGPS is accurate within 1 sq.meter in optimal conditions.

Satellites also improved communication and cruise ship safety. The Titanic's radio range was just 200 ml (320 km). Today shipboard personnel can remain in touch 24 hours a day with those ashore, no matter in which part of the world the ship is sailing. When the Titanic was created, this was possible only if a vessel was close by, transmitting from one ship to another, and in case the radio officer was at his monitoring station. Titanic's first transmitted distress messages were missed by nearby Carpathia just because her radio officer was on the bridge.

Navigation Bridge hardware evolves constantly. Among the newest equipment are AIS (Automatic Identification System) and ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System). Ship's AIS allows tracking and identifying other vessels, as well as to be identified by land-based stations and other ships. It also helps officers to track floating objects in order to predict their actions.

The received AIS data (position, speed, course, unique identification) is displayed on separate screens or ECDIS. The Electronic Chart Display has more benefits: access to any chart, automatic chart updating, effective interface with radar/ARPA - automatic radar plotting aid. For a concise review of the marine vessels AIS equipment and how it works, you also can see our cruise ship tracker . The result can be seen at CruiseMapper's global map .

Advances in forecasting and weather monitoring have also enhanced cruise ship safety. This has a key role in routing - the science (and art) of developing best routes for ships based on ship characteristics, weather forecasts, ocean currents, cargo requirements. The main purpose is to find the best balance and minimize fuel consumption and time of transit without placing the ship at risk of crew injury or weather damage.

Marine Design Innovations for Cruise Ship Safety

Design advancements have also improved passenger ship safety. For most of history, the ships' design process was "trial-error". Design innovations were incremental and relatively conservative. Many principles of modern vessels' design were established by the twentieth century. Ship stability was understood largely. Vessels were compartmentalized in order to slow flooding and improve aid evacuation.

Contemporary computers further contributed much to cruise ship safety. Computer analysis and modeling replaced tough calculations on structures, hydrodynamics, and stability. The design of the ship can be modified to temper risks when identified.

Structure design and hull weren't the only elements that improved drastically over the past century. Bridge innovations also played key role in ship safety. In 1912, RMS Titanic had navigational aids that were few and typical of the period - chronometer combined with Nautical Almanac reference.

Ship's position couldn't be pinpointed precisely during daylight hours because the location was only determined using stars' positions.

Modern bridge removes the need for guesswork and improves cruise ship safety - extremely innovative high-tech environment. The gyrocompass replaced Titanic's compass and finds 'true north', not the magnetic one. It also made autopilot possible. High-frequency radios today allow ships to broadcast distress calls and safety information, contact other ships in proximity, inform port authorities when needed. Depth finders warn modern ships of potential for grounding by utilizing echo-sounding and play key roles for the development of more accurate sea-charts.

Radars obligatory requirement under the International Convention for SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) has moreover revolutionized navigation. Watch officers can anticipate obstacles and hazards before they can really see them. This, combined with ARPA to replace manual plotting of ship movements, has improved the speed and accuracy of plotting and also enhanced situational awareness of the officers who keep navigational watch.

The technological advancements have reduced navigation risks radically and have thus improved cruise vessel safety, since RMS Titanic 's days. Undoubtedly, there is more to come, as the knowledge of the marine environment is being enhanced further in the future.

New cruise ship evacuation system

In March 2016, Viking Ocean  introduced a new cruise ship evacuation system replacing the traditional lifeboats. The new high-capacity system represents a lifeboat-liferaft hybrid called "LifeCraft".

The LifeCraft system allows the quick mass evacuation of the ship with guaranteed maximum safety for its passengers and crew. The system consists of the following elements:

• A launching unit (positioned either on deck or hull built-in) contains up to four LifeCrafts, plus stowage and loading stretchers.
• Survival crafts (LifeCrafts) are inflatable and self-propelled vessels with high maneuverability. Each of them has a passenger capacity of 203 and is powered by 4 engines.
• Passengers enter the boats through chutes. Once full, the crew releases the craft and navigates it to a safe location where it waits for the rescue teams.

In November 2018, Viking's LifeCraft was tested in rough sea conditions, with waves up to 50% bigger industry's standard requirements for  heavy-weather testings. LifeCraft successfully passed the " Heavy Weather Sea Trials". Sea trials involved launching and testing in extreme weather conditions (high waves and strong winds - up to 18 m/s gusts and waves up to 4,5 m) in the North Sea. The system was launched with the ship cruising at 3 knots (6 km) against the wind, then was simulated a dead ship condition. The LifeCrafts were launched from both sides of the ship. Then the units were tested for 24 hours (controlled drift) in rough seas, resulting in no sustained damages.

Norsafe "Minima-88" lifeboat for passenger ships

In early 2018, the Norwegian company Norsafe AS (lifeboat builder since 1903) presented a newly developed PELB (Partially Enclosed Lifeboat) design for passenger ships. The "Minima-88" lifeboat model is SOLAS compliant, compact (length 8,8 m, width 4,25 m), with capacity 150 people, signal-colored superstructure and white hull.

The cockpit is mid-forward, providing better visibility during embarkation. Cockpit's roof hatch provides vertical visibility of davits (lifeboat cranes). There are two large sliding doors (portside and starboard) for fast embarkation. Seats are on two levels. A steering nozzle provides better maneuverability and increases bollard pull.

Norsafe was contracted by Xiamen Shipyard (China) to build six lifeboats with compatible davits for Viking Line's newbuild ferry (entering service in 2021 on the route Turku-Stockholm.

In 2019, CCL-Carnival Cruise Lines issued a safety briefing video outlining all the fleet's main shipboard safety regulations.

(Survitec) Seahaven inflatable lifeboat

In May 2022, Survitec introduced Seahaven - the world’s largest inflatable lifeboat by max passenger capacity (1060 people). The lifeboat's first test were conducted in December 2021 (Heavy Weather Sea Trials).

Seahaven can be launched from the cruise liner with the push of a button and during the fall it automatically inflates, with a deployment time of just 4 min. Once deployed, the lifeboat can navigate independently (at max speed 6 knots/7 mph/11 kph) for 24 hours.

(Coronavirus) Cruise passenger health and safety issues (temperature screening, social distancing)

During the global Coronavirus pandemic, in March 2020 DeCurtis Corporation (Orlando Florida-based software company that specializes in mobile applications) introduced "DeCurtis Shield". The application is collecting real-time temperature data (from sensors at the facility's entry and exit points) and also uses an online health database for tracking and locating at-risk people.

DeCurtis Shield collects and stores basic health parameters using facial recognition and thermal mapping technologies. The information is provided from hardware installed in standalone kiosks throughout the cruise liner.

In mid-May 2020, Rescompany Systems LTD introduced a thermal screening system for cruise companies. The real-time health screening process starts at home (via mobile apps) which allows pre-cruise registration, medical screening, documents update. Rescompany's terminals use onboard thermal imaging cameras (with facial recognition capabilities) that repeatedly scan passengers and crew when they pass through checkpoints positioned at key locations ashore and onboard.

In September 2020, the company SICK (specializing in intelligent radar sensors) announced a solution for cruise ships based on its 3D-LiDAR (model MRS1000) combined with SensorApps (SICK's PeCo/PeopleCounter). SICK's sensor solutions don't use/share personal information but only count people (in both open and closed shipboard spaces) to ensure keeping the recommended social distance. The sensors identify only people (objects remain hidden) and also determine directions of movements . SICK's technology can also be used to protect select areas from unauthorized access as motion profiles (number, direction, speed) of even entire groups can be in real-time recorded and analyzed.

Air Quality on Cruise Ships, Pollution

In January 2017, the German Environmental Association NABU (Naturschutzbund Deutschland) issued a survey on air quality onboard cruise vessels. The survey warned that on a larger-sized ship it's more likely passengers to inhale polluted air than a fresh sea breeze.

Onboard measurements of actual air quality onboard were way worse than expected. They were done by cover French TV journalists (from France 3 channel) conducted on a Mediterranean-based cruise ship leaving from Marseille .

Measuring results show that shipboard passengers are exposed to high concentrations of harmful substances, the levels of which surprised even the environmentalists. After the ship left Port Marseille, air pollution was measured roughly 200 (TWO HUNDRED) times that of an urban street during heavy traffic. Besides fine dust and soot, burning large quantities of marine diesel and heavy oil also produced high doses of nitrogen oxides and heavy metals.

Most of the largest cruise line companies have done in recent years significant fleetwide upgrades to their older ships. Among the newly installed technologies are the scrubber systems (aka Chemical Scrubbers). These are expensive air pollution control units used to remove some particulates and gases from the ship's exhaust streams. However, statistics show that 4 of 5 vessels are not equipped with an exhaust gas cleaning devices. Since modern technical solutions to reduce particles and NOx emissions are long present on the market, not implementing such technologies is largely due to greed. It cost money to install them and furthermore requires the shipowner to use more expensive fuel.

The European Lung Foundation (ELF) recommended several years ago that travelers with chronic respiratory diseases should only stay only on certain parts of the ship's open decks to avoid breathing in the exhaust. At the same time, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded that marine diesel exhaust is just as carcinogenic as asbestos. The ultrafine particles can get into the smallest pulmonary alveoli and from there into the bloodstream.

In June 2015, Carnival Corporation contracted the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for 4x LNG-powered ships with the industry's largest passenger capacity. This was part of the order with Meyer Werft and Fincantieri for a total of 9 newbuilds to be delivered in 2019-2022. The four units became industry's first LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) powered vessels using LNG in their hybrid engines. The gas is stored onboard and used to generate all the electricity. The new ships' engines are not exclusively LNG-powered, but dual-fuel (capable of burring both liquid marine fuel and gas). This design is for saving onboard space (reducing fuel storage space that is required).

The new fuel eliminates all the bad emissions - soot and sulfur oxides. In April 2016 MSC Cruises announced its contract with STX France for up to four LNG-powered ships with GT over 200,000 tons each. For comparison, the Oasis of the Seas is 225,000 GT tons. The new MSC ships have 5400 passengers capacity at double occupancy each. The first one is scheduled for delivery in 2022. Its power plant will be based on a new prototype engine.

In November 2016, Port Barcelona presented its "Air Quality Improvement Plan" - an initiative aiming to reduce bad emissions from port activities. The document involved 25 actions rolled out in 53 operations. Among the most representative actions are promoting the LNG fuel (liquefied natural gas) as an alternative for both marine vessels and road freighters. The policy offers discounts for cleaner ships and replacing the port's service fleet with electric vehicles. According to statistics, port activities produce 7,6% of the city's average NOx concentrations annually and 1,5% of the fine particulates. Promoting LNG-powered ships, terminal machinery and trucks are one of the plan's highlights. LNG fuel cuts NOx emissions by 80% and eliminates sooth, particles and SOx emissions. The environmental discounts are on port fees. Currently, the law allows a max 5% port fee discount for environmental reasons.

Starting July 2, 2018, the Norwegian ferry and cruise shipping company Hurtigruten implemented fleetwide a policy for not using any single-use plastic products. The list of banned products includes plastic-made bags, straws, cups, cutlery, toothpicks, aprons, stir pins, drink mixers, coffee lids. The decision made the shipping company world's first "plastic-free". It is estimated that 15 tons of plastic enters into oceans every minute of the day, ranking plastic pollution the world's single biggest threat to the oceans. Hurtigruten's ban of single-use plastics was also imposed on all hotels, restaurants and other establishments contracted by the subsidiary company subsidiary Hurtigruten Svalbard for the land-based operations on Svalbard islands.

IMO's ferry safety video 2018

At the end of June 2018, IMO (International Maritime Organization) officially released a 1-min animated video about safety on ferries . IMO's video is shown in all major ferry port terminals and on national TV channels in the Asia Pacific. The video was commissioned following several IMO-sponsored discussions on ferry safety. On those forums, overloading (with cargo and cars) and overcrowding were highlighted as common problems for passenger ships navigating inland waterways, coastal and inter-island routes.

Domestic ferries in the region are often the only possible (affordable) means of transportation in island countries. IMO's ship safety video was provided for free to all national maritime authorities in the Asia Pacific.

CLIA's Cruise Passenger Bill of Rights

The industry's guarantee for customer service and ship safety is called "CRUISE PASSENGER BILL OF RIGHTS" and was approved by CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) on May 22, 2013. All CLIA members agreed to Bill's provisions, which became immediately effective for US passengers purchasing cruises on CLIA member companies in North America, regardless of the itinerary.

Although Bill's provisions (including the requirement for employees' training for emergencies) have been practiced for years, this list makes cruise lines' obligations clear to their customers. The Bill further informs passengers of the cruise industry's commitment to their comfort and care. By adopting formally industry practices into the Cruise Passenger Bill of Rights, CLIA demonstrated further consistent practices and showed commitment to continue delivering the highest standards in all areas. The latest industry mechanical failures and high-profile accidents left potential customers wary of booking a voyage.

CLIA's Board of Directors also approved the adoption of the Bill detailing CLIA members' commitment to passengers' comfort, care, and safety. CLIA submitted the Bill to IMO (International Maritime Organization), requesting formal global recognition, as well as applicability under IMO authority over the international maritime industry. CLIA and its members actively communicate the Bill of Rights to cruise ship passengers and the general public. CLIA and all member companies posted the Bill on their websites and provided materials for communicating the Bill to prospective and current customers, as well as to nearly 14,000 travel agents globally.

What is CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association)?

CLIA is the largest in the world cruise industry association, with representation in Europe, Asia, Australasia, North and South America.

CLIA represents travel agents' and cruise lines' interests before legislative and regulatory policymakers.

CLIA is engaged in research, marketing communications, and travel agent training to promote the desirability of cruises with a huge number of travel agent members.

"CLIA Executive Partner and Associate Member" program include leading providers of services and supplies that help member companies to provide environmentally-friendly and safe vacation experience for a huge number of travelers each year.

For information about CLIA and the member travel agencies and cruise lines - www.Cruising.org

In addition to the Bill of Rights, CLIA's other proactive initiatives focused on passenger comfort, care and safety include:

• Establishment in 2012 of Operational Safety Review, which resulted in the adoption of ten safety-related policies, submitted to IMO;
• Launch in March 2013 of Preparedness Risk Assessment in order to address and review excess associated with power systems which provide essential services in main power loss' events;
• Successful completion in April 2013 of an emergency multi-day drill involving authorities from Bahamian and US governments, led by USCG (US Coast Guard).

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Passenger Cruise Ship Information

To assist cruise ship passengers, the U.S. Department of Transportation is sharing information and resources provided by other Federal agencies

Consumer Assistance

The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) requires operators of passenger vessels carrying 50 or more passengers from a U.S. port to be financially capable of reimbursing their customers if a cruise is cancelled. The FMC also requires proof of ability to pay claims arising out of passenger injuries or death for which the ship operator may be liable. If a cruise is cancelled or if there is an injury during the cruise, the consumer will have to initiate action on his or her own behalf against the cruise line.

The FMC reviews any problems or inquiries that passengers bring to its attention. The FMC's Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services (CADRS) will contact a cruise line on a passenger's behalf. However, the final resolution of such complaints or inquiries is a matter between the cruise line and the individual. The role of OCC essentially is to help ensure a quick and fair consideration of the issues involved.  Consumer complaints can be reported to the FMC by telephone at 202-523-5807. See FMC’s website for additional information .

Vessel Safety

The U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for cruise ship safety . Although each cruise ship is subject to the vessel inspection laws of the country in which it is registered, as a condition of permitting the vessels to take on passengers at U.S. ports, the Coast Guard requires the ships to meet the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea and other international regulations. Among other things, these regulations concern structural fire protection, firefighting and lifesaving equipment, watercraft integrity and stability, vessel control, navigation safety, crewing and crew competency, safety management and environmental protection. The Coast Guard conducts routine onboard inspections of cruise ships to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Cruise Line Incident Reports

The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010 prescribes security and safety requirements for most cruise ships that embark and disembark in the United States. The Act mandates that reports of criminal activity be reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).   See the cruise line reports .

Criminal Activity Prevention and Response Guide (Security Guide)

Cruise ships are required by 46 USC 3507(c)(1) to have a security guide available for passengers. The security guides provide important information, such as a description of medical and security personnel designated on board to prevent and respond to criminal and medical situations; and law enforcement processes available with respect to criminal activity.

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How Safe are Cruise Ships? A Deep Dive

• May 10, 2023

“Are cruise ships safe?” is a frequently asked question by many people.

The answer? Yes, of course.

All cruise lines take health, safety, and security very seriously. From complying with international rules and regulations to implementing rigorous inspections, cruise ships are designed to keep passengers and crew safe.

In this article, we’ll explore the many safety measures to make your next cruise a worry-free experience.

What types of safety measures are taken on cruises?

Cruise lines prioritize the safety and well-being of their guests, crew, and vessels. These companies comply with strict international rules and regulations to ensure safe and secure voyages.

Security before and during your cruise

Cruise lines use cameras and security personnel to protect both passengers and crew. Security staff monitors public areas 24/7 in person and through security cameras to ensure that guests are safe and resolve issues if there are some.

They also have advanced maritime security systems to deter and detect unauthorized access to the ship.

The cruise line will also run the names of each passenger through a federal database to ensure the unauthorized person doesn’t board the cruise.

Health and hygiene measures

Cruise lines must follow guidelines set by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to prevent the spread of illnesses onboard. This includes regular inspections, sanitation procedures, and education for both passengers and crew.

Cruise lines are required to adhere to local and international policies, including regular inspection of vessels and the implementation of comprehensive sanitation procedures.

These procedures may include frequent cleaning and disinfecting of common areas, accommodations, and dining facilities, as well as providing hand sanitizing stations throughout the ship.

Do cruise ships have pirate attacks?

Despite concerns about pirate attacks, these incidents are very rare on cruises. Ports and waterways deemed high risk are usually avoided, and cruise ships can increase speed and change course if necessary.

Overall, cruise lines take a comprehensive approach to safety and security. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) conducts regular surveys to ensure that their members are following these protocols and providing a safe experience for guests.

Are there specific safety rules that passengers need to follow while onboard?

Yes, there are specific safety rules that passengers need to follow onboard a cruise ship. All guests are required to acknowledge and sign the passenger contract before boarding the ship.

READ: 9 Cruise Line Ticket Contract Surprises

Cruise lines must also adhere to international safety and security regulations set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention.

To ensure the safety of passengers, cruise ships are equipped with life-saving equipment such as life jackets, lifeboats, and life rafts.

Passengers are also required to attend or watch safety drills and familiarize themselves with the ship’s emergency procedures.

Are there medical personnel onboard cruises?

Yes, all cruise lines are required to have medical personnel onboard their vessels to ensure the health and safety of their passengers and crew members.

The number of medical staff members varies depending on the size of the vessel and the number of passengers onboard. The medical team generally consists of a doctor and several nurses.

While they may not be able to conduct surgery onboard, they have a direct line of communication with medical teams and virtual examinations for second opinions. The infirmary also has a direct line to the U.S. Coast Guard, or equivalent, depending on where the ship is sailing.

These medical professionals are equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, from minor illnesses to more serious injuries.

In addition to medical staff, many cruise lines also have well-stocked medical facilities that can provide treatment for a variety of medical issues.

Do cruises have protocols to respond to accidents or emergencies?

Cruise lines have rigid and comprehensive protocols to respond to accidents or emergencies. They take all necessary measures to ensure that everyone onboard is protected.

One of the keys to ensuring safety on board is implementing international rules and regulations. The International Maritime Organization has established the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, which sets out minimum safety standards for vessels, including cruise ships.

Cruise lines are required to comply with these standards, which cover everything from fire safety to equipment and machinery maintenance.

In addition to these international regulations, cruise lines have their safety precautions and security policies in place. They conduct regular safety drills and inspections, and crew members are trained to respond to different emergencies.

Dedicated security teams also monitor the vessel and respond to any threats or incidents.

In an emergency, cruise lines have emergency response plans designed to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers and crew. These plans set clear procedures for evacuating the vessel, providing medical assistance, and communicating with authorities and loved ones on shore.

Are there rescue boats available in case of emergency?

Are there enough lifeboats? Yes.

Cruise lines are required to provide rescue boats and emergency equipment onboard to ensure the safety of their customers in case of an emergency. These boats are equipped with life-saving equipment, including life jackets, life rafts, first aid kits, and other medical supplies.

Cruise lines prioritize the safety and security of their customers and have comprehensive safety protocols in place to deal with any emergency that may arise. These protocols are regularly reviewed and updated by international rules.

To maintain safety on board, vessels undergo regular inspections by maritime authorities to check if they meet the required safety standards. Cruise lines also conduct regular safety drills to ensure that their crew members are well-equipped to handle emergencies.

While any form of travel involves a degree of risk, cruising is considered a safe mode of travel. According to a recent survey conducted by CLIA, 94 percent of customers who took a cruise felt it was a safe vacation option.

Cruise lines continue to prioritize safety and security measures, making cruising a safe and enjoyable way to travel.

Is there a system of communication in place in case of an emergency?

Yes, cruise lines have a comprehensive system of communication in place in case of emergencies. The safety of passengers and crew is the number one priority for all cruise lines, and they take extensive measures to ensure that their vessels are equipped to handle any situation.

Cruise lines use a variety of communication methods to keep passengers and crew informed during an emergency. This includes public address announcements, emergency drills, and detailed safety briefings at the beginning of the voyage.

In addition to these communication methods, cruise ships are equipped with state-of-the-art communication technology that enables them to stay in touch with other vessels, shore-based emergency services, and even satellite systems. This ensures that help can be quickly dispatched in case of an emergency.

Cruise lines must also have emergency plans that outline procedures for dealing with a range of emergency scenarios, including medical emergencies, fires, and even pirate attacks.

These plans are also regularly reviewed and updated to ensure effectiveness.

Final Thoughts

Equipped with advanced communication technology, cruise ships can easily communicate with other vessels, emergency services on land, and even satellite systems to ensure rapid assistance in case of an emergency.

Additionally, cruise lines must have emergency plans that outline procedures for handling various emergencies, including medical crises, fires, and pirate attacks. These plans are reviewed and updated regularly to ensure their effectiveness.

The cruise industry takes safety and security seriously and strives to provide guests with a peaceful and enjoyable cruise vacation.

While there may be risks associated with any form of travel, cruising remains a safe option. By following the safety rules and procedures, passengers can enjoy their time at sea with peace of mind.

READ NEXT: How to Avoiding Motion Sickness on a Cruise Ship

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For Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and its Cruise Line Members, the safety of guests and crew is the highest priority and is fundamental to their operations. Even with an increase in cruise capacity, cruise lines have maintained an exceptional safety record – making cruising one of the safest ways to travel. In fact, cruise travel is safer than virtually every other form of travel.

Ensuring Safety at Sea

• Crewmember Training: Crewmembers receive robust training in safety, security and first aid to prevent and respond to potential emergency situations.
• Heavily Scrutiny: Cruise ships are among the most scrutinized vessels at sea. With oversight beginning at design and construction, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), flag and port state authorities, and classification societies provide strict safety standards and oversight throughout a ship’s operations.
• Constant Improvement: CLIA and its Cruise Line Members constantly work to improve safety by reviewing operational procedures to improve safety processes and technology. With new polices implemented and continual meetings with an Independent Panel of Experts comprised of top maritime and transportation professions to provide advice on measures to enhance safety, the cruise industry is always looking to improve.
• Precautions: Every cruise ship must be equipped with enough survival craft, including life boats and life rafts, to accommodate at least 125 percent of the number of persons on board. In addition, all survival craft must be tested and meet rigorous international guidelines.

Cruise ships today are the safest that have ever sailed, thanks to the rules, regulations, and technological innovations that govern their design. 

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Are Cruise Ships Safe? – 10 Facts About Cruise Safety

Last updated on December 16th, 2022 at 10:34 am

With the recent Carnival Cruise man overboard incident , the discussion on cruise ships’ safety has once again intensified.

Travelers planning to go on a cruise are asking the all-time famous question, “Are Cruise ships safe”?

Well, the answer to this question is straightforward: “It is still absolutely safe to go on a cruise.” Why we think so you ask? Let us present to you ten facts about cruise safety that will surely help you to decide whether you agree with us about the cruise safety or not.

All cruise ships are designed and operated in accordance with strict International Law. The cruise industry is heavily regulated by International Maritime and U.S. Laws to ensure that the cruise are operated safely.

Statistically, cruises are one of the safest forms of travel; the odds of dying on a cruise ship are roughly 1 in 6.25 million. Now imagine how safe it is!

As per a research conducted by the Daspit Law Firm , cruise ships have the lowest rate of deaths per billion passenger miles, with 0.08, compared to 11.9 for rail travel, 3.3 for cars & trucks and 0.8 for commercial air.

As per the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) , on average, a cruise ship undergoes more than 60 safety and other types of inspections to ensure that it is seaworthy and complies with international safety standards.

As per CLIA, from 2009-2019, the cruise industry’s capacity grew by 68%. During that same period, the overall number of operational incidents declined by 41%, and man-overboard incidents decreased by 35%.

As per the international requirements, every cruise ship must be equipped with enough survival craft, including lifeboats and life rafts, to accommodate at least 125 per cent of the number of persons on board.

All survival crafts onboard a cruise ship are required to be tested ashore before fitting on the vessel and meet rigorous international guidelines.

An average cruise ship carrying 2700 passengers and 800 crew is required to have the following safety measures in place:

• 5 firefighting teams
• 4,000 smoke detectors
• 500 fire extinguishers
• 16 miles of sprinkler piping
• 5,000 sprinkler heads
• 6 miles of fire hose.

As required by the International Maritime Organization, crew members with designated responsibility for the safety of passengers in emergency situations must complete approved training in crisis management and human behavior.

Apart from this, the crew responsible for embarking and disembarking passengers, for loading, discharging or securing cargo, or for closing hull openings onboard passenger ships, must complete approved training in passenger safety, cargo safety and hull integrity.

Modern cruise ships are required to have state-of-the-art electronic navigational instruments, and most ships substantially exceed these regulatory requirements, making them less prone to maritime disasters.

Overall, cruise ships are safe. Of course, like all other transport modes, one needs to be alert. The risk of drowning is always there, but due to the safety measures onboard, this risk is minimal. On your part ensure that you familiarize yourself with the ship & attend all the safety drills.

So what do you think? Are cruise ships safe? Do you agree with us that cruises are safe! Or do you still have some doubts in your mind? Do share your views in the comments section.

Till then, Keep cruising!

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Great article, never knew the amount of resources cruise ships had to have. Point 3: Death rates is fascinating especially compared to train travel which folks tend to not worry about in the slightest! and Point 8:the Emergency Resources / teams they have in place and on-board is amazing.

cheers from Australia

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Are Cruises Safe? Details You Should Know Before You Sail…

If you’ve never taken a cruise before, you would be forgiven for wondering if it is a safe way to vacation. After all, if you only follow the industry casually, cruising might catch your attention when news stories covering negative events (passenger fights, illnesses aboard, or even passengers going missing) make the headlines.

That can make it seem like it’s a big risk to take a cruise.

People that have sailed before know that the truth is very different. Overall, cruising is a safe way to travel, and we will dive into some of the data and details behind that belief below.

For more on if cruises are safe, keep reading…

What It Means to Be ‘Safe’ on a Cruise

Before getting too far, it’s important to explain that when it comes to safety, it can actually entail different things to different people.

When some ask about safety, they mean being a victim of crime during the cruise . For instance, will they be robbed or hurt while visiting a port in Mexico? Or might they be a victim of theft or assault while on the ship ? There’s little doubt that these kinds of thoughts are scary, but thankfully the instances are also rare.

Another way that some are concerned about safety is more about health and well-being on the ship . After all, while the pandemic has largely passed, it was an enormous story in cruising for more than two years. Stories of cases on ships were reported, including instances of passengers quarantined on the ship in the early days when no one quite knew how to deal with the virus. Even beyond that, stories of norovirus and stomach bugs have made headlines from time to time.

Finally, when people wonder if cruising is safe, they might have worries that come with being on the open ocean . Things like hitting a nasty storm, falling overboard, a breakdown happening to the ship, or even the ship sinking. These types of events definitely make big headlines when they do happen , but as you’ll see, they are also extremely rare. Still, if it’s something you are worried about, then it deserves some attention and explanation.

Crime Safety on Cruises

When it comes to being a victim of crime, statistics show that serious crime is relatively rare. Still, it can happen. That said, our opinion is that many people are safer on a cruise ship than in their hometown.

Crime on Cruise Ships Wondering how much crime occurs on cruise ships? It does happen, but it’s also a small number of major offenses that are reported, which should help put you at ease.

According to data from industry group Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) roughly 11.3 million passengers sailed North American destinations in 2022 , including the Caribbean, Alaska, Hawaii, and Mexico. This represents by far the busiest cruise area in the world, with trips from the United States to the Caribbean and Bahamas making up the lion’s share of passenger counts.

Ships embarking or disembarking in the United States adhere to something called the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA). In the case of crime on ships, this law requires that cruise lines report certain major crimes to the FBI. Crimes to be reported include homicide, assault with serious injury, theft of over $10,000 and sexual assault, among others.

Each quarter, these statistics are compiled and released to the public to give insight on reported crimes on cruise ships among both passengers and crew. In general, they show a low number of incidents given the millions of passengers sailing each year.

The total reported figures for all of 2022 include:

• Homicide: 0
• Suspicious Death: 1
• Missing U.S. National: 3
• Kidnapping: 0
• Assault w/ Serious Bodily Injury: 7
• Firing or Tampering With Vessel: 0
• Theft > $10,000: 5
• Sexual Assault: 87

Note that these figures don’t include all crimes that might have happened on a cruise ship. For instance, theft of less than $10,000 isn’t included. And there may be crimes that go unreported.

By far the biggest issue reported is sexual assault, with roughly 90 reported cases among more than 11 million passengers. In that regard, we think it pays to be vigilant even while enjoying your vacation, but the total numbers are small.

So while crime does happen on ships — and it definitely makes headlines — the statistics say that it’s a pretty safe way to travel.

Crime in Ports of Call Of course, every cruise really consists of two different vacations. There’s the time you spend on the ship (which is actually the majority of the vacation) and then the time you spend in ports of call. So what about crime there?

Obviously crime rates will vary from port to port. In fact, ports on your cruise can range from islands operated by the cruise line and for the enjoyment only of passengers to those that are completely independent of the cruise line. That can make it tough to give blanket statistics about crime in ports.

For example, Mexico has seen sordid headlines, including shooting on beaches, kidnappings, and drug-related violence. The U.S. State Department has a Level 2 warning on travel to The Bahamas , stating that “the majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands,” which are both popular cruise destinations.

To be sure, ports can see crime. However, crime against tourists (specifically cruise passengers), seems rare. In general, passengers tend to stay in safer tourist areas, and they are almost always visiting only during daylight hours. Plus, port areas have a strong interest in keeping tourists safe as they provide vital income to port areas.

Take Mexico, where literally tens of millions of Americans visit each year.

“In 2021, 75 U.S. citizens died by homicide in Mexico, according to the State Department,” said an article from NewsNation asking about the safety of visiting the country. “That represents a small fraction of the more than 28.8 million Americans who went to the country over the same time period. Using those figures, the murder rate of U.S. citizens in Mexico was around 0.26 per 100,000 visitors, significantly lower than the rate in the United States.”

The best advice is to exercise good judgment, using common sense in foreign ports. This includes not traveling in unfamiliar areas alone, not overindulging in alcohol, and also not wearing flashy jewelry or showing wads of cash. Millions travel to these spots each year without incident.

Health Safety on Cruise Ships

When it comes to the question of being safe on a cruise, perhaps nothing has seen as much attention recently as your health. In the beginning of the pandemic, outbreaks on cruise ships were widely reported. It even led to a pausing of the industry until new protocols were put in place to combat the spread.

And before the pandemic, things like stomach illness were sometimes issues on ships. Then there are issues like slips and falls and even accidental drowning in cruise ships pools. Fortunately, these are rare. Unfortunately, they do happen. So is cruising safe when it comes to health?

Let’s start with illness as this has seen a lot of headlines in recent years. Truth is that anywhere that you get people within close proximity of each other, there is the risk for illness to spread.

For example, even when protocols for battling Covid on cruise ships were in place (such as masking and required vaccinations), reports the cruise ships provided to the CDC showed that cases were still on board , though specific numbers were not disclosed. 

Now that the pandemic has passed, ships have returned to normal protocols, just like most of society. While it is possible to get Covid on a cruise, its largely no longer causes the disruption it once did.

Norovirus and other stomach bugs are notorious for spreading through schools, offices, and yes, cruise ships. However, you likely have heard of them more due to reporting requirements from the federal government that aren’t in place for other entities.

The CDC posts regular updates on cruise ships seeing gastro outbreaks. Their “Outbreak Updates for International Cruise Ships”  page keeps tabs on which ships have seen issues.

Cruise lines are required to file a report on gastro illness before arriving in port — even if there are zero cases. The health agency posts outbreaks to their website when ships under their jurisdiction have 3% or more of passengers or crew reporting symptoms.

For as much publicity as outbreaks do get, ships reaching that 3% threshold are relatively rare. Of all the cruises covered by the CDC’s rules, roughly 10-12 outbreaks are reported each year . That represents a tiny fraction of all sailings.

In fact, the CDC website says that “acute gastrointestinal illness is relatively infrequent on cruise ships” and one reason that many people associate the virus with cruising is because health officials track illness on ships, meaning “outbreaks are found and reported more quickly on a cruise ship than on land.”

Still, it can happen. That’s why whenever you cruise, you’ll see the crew constantly cleaning and sanitizing. For your part, doing things like washing your hands and avoiding common surfaces when possible is also a good idea.

As for your physical health, accidents like slip and falls, and even some drownings have taken place on ships. To counter this, you’ll find measures handrails on every staircase, along with high-grip footing on treads. Most cruise lines also have lifeguards on duty to monitor pools and offer life jackets for kids for free. It’s still a good idea to keep an eye on kids near any body of water.

Safety of Being on the Open Ocean

Finally, when it comes to the question of whether cruises are safe, you might have concerns about some of the most headline-grabbing incidents in cruising. We’re talking about the stories that make national headlines, such as people falling overboard, ships breaking down in the open ocean, storms rocking cruise ships, and even a ship sinking.

Is this something that you need to worry about on vacation?

Falling Overboard Let’s start with a phobia of many people — falling overboard. Frankly, the chances of this happening accidentally are almost zero. Railings surround the entire ship and these railings are all at a considerable height. On an adult male, they typically come up to around mid-torso.

So what about the stories you hear when people do fall over? Sadly, these stories are often said to involve passengers climbing on railings, going over on purpose, or suspicious circumstances late at night.

According to Newsweek , “American cruise expert Dr. Ross Klein, who keeps a database regarding guests and crew members who have gone overboard either to an accident, alcohol intoxication, foul play, or suicide, estimated that there have been at least 375 documented accidents involving people falling overboard between 1995 and December 2022.”

That comes out to about 13 people per year. For reference, CDC data says that about 28 people die each year from lightning strikes in the United States. And about 26 people die in U.S. national parks from falls in an average year.

Rough Seas & Hurricanes Worried about hurricanes or other major storms while on the ship? From time to time you will see some hair-raising videos of cruise ships in heavy seas. Hurricanes are also common in the Caribbean where cruises sail.

In general, your chances of seeing heavy seas are fairly low. For one, cruise ships today are built to be incredibly stable. Even in moderate swells you may not feel much. But ships also don’t make it a habit of sailing through storms.

Modern forecasting — along with the ship’s mobility — mean that cruise lines can anticipate and avoid most instances of bad weather (especially major storms like hurricanes).

Personally, after dozens of cruises we have been caught in squalls but never in anything where there was more than a gentle rocking. Still, if you’re going to be at sea, it’s always possible, just know it’s not common.

Breakdowns & Sinkings And what about the ship breaking down or even worse, sinking? Many people remember the tragic Costa Concordia sinking in 2012. Others may remember the Carnival Triumph fiasco where an engine room fire left the ship crippled at sea, complete with toilets backing up. Both incidents were widely reported, while occasional other incidents make news, such as ships seeing a fire.

We don’t want to downplay the seriousness of something happening in the open ocean. It would no doubt be scary if it were to happen to you. However, these issues are rare. To our knowledge, Costa Concordia is the only modern cruise ship from a major line to actually sink in recent history.

Major breakdowns that impact a cruise happen more, but still are infrequent. A couple of other things to keep in mind is that ships come equipped with emergency equipment including life jackets for all those on the ship and lifeboats. Crew is also trained on how to respond with emergencies. And before you set sail, you’ll participate in a muster drill to go over emergency procedures.

If there were to be an incident, cruise ships — especially in the Caribbean — stick to common routes and destinations. That means even though you might not realize it, there are other ships usually relatively close by that could render aid if needed.

Bottom Line: Are Cruises Safe?

Being in the industry, we’ve personally cruised extensively ranging from Alaska to Mexico to The Bahamas.

While we don’t want to discount incidents that do happen, we have never felt unsafe on a cruise or in a port of call. The statistics seem to bear this out.

Crime figures — while not all encompassing — are low given the millions that set sail each year. Illness can happen on a ship (there’s no denying that), but due to reporting requirements for cruise ships, they are also more well-known than if they were to happen somewhere on land. Falling overboard? As mentioned above, not only is it more common to be struck by lightning, but often other factors come into play that lead to this.

Our advice is that if you use common sense, there is almost no safer vacation you can take. Yes, things do happen. With millions traveling across thousands of cruises each year, there will be incidents. They are also more likely to be heard about versus events at hotels or other resorts. But we wouldn’t let that worry you from having a fun vacation.

More Resources:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Cruise Line Incident Reports
• CDC Outbreak Updates for International Cruise Ships
• CDC Vessel Sanitation Program (Health Inspection Scores)

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Cruises see a fair amount of overboard incidents: Are ships equipped?

Mental health crises can happen anywhere. But what happens if you're stuck in the middle of the ocean?

Between 2009 and 2019, there were 212 overboard incidents – when a guest or crew member goes over the edge of a ship – according to  statistics compiled for Cruise Lines International Association  by consulting firm G.P. Wild (International) Limited. "In discussions with cruise line representatives, they indicated that in every case where the cause of the (overboard) was established following a careful investigation it was found to be the result of an intentional or reckless act," the report said, noting that motives could not be determined in some cases.

There were also numerous reports of suspected suicides among crew trapped at sea during the COVID-19 pandemic. And while cruise lines have protocols and services in place to support to guests and crew members, some experts say they are lacking.

Cruise ships feature a range of amenities, from roller coasters and go-kart tracks to spas and dining, but passengers may not always know where to find mental health resources on board.

‘It’s really, really, really needed’

Cruise ships may be designed to prioritize fun and relaxation, but not everyone responds the same to that approach.

For some passengers, being around family members or away from their day-to-day routine can be stressful, said Dr. Tia Dole, Chief 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Officer at Vibrant Emotional Health. “But for other people who might have been struggling with their mental health … going on a vacation actually takes you out of your environment, it makes you feel better,” she said.

The widespread presence of alcohol and gambling in onboard casinos may also prove challenging for some travelers, said Dr. Michelle Riba, a clinical professor at the University of Michigan Medical School's Department of Psychiatry and former president of the American Psychiatric Association.

"People have to be self-reflective and talk to their loved ones about how problematic it might be to be on a ship where there's easy access to that," she said.

And when it comes to the kinds of overboard incidents that appear in news reports with some frequency, she said jumping into the water has perhaps been featured prominently in films and TV shows, and cruises may provide another "access point" to impulsive suicides.

Travis Heggie, a professor at Bowling Green State University who studies tourist health and safety issues, said it's difficult to draw concrete comparisons, however, between rates at sea and on land due to a lack of comprehensive statistics. Riba added that it would be hard to compare the two, given varying demographics and other factors.

Still, suicide on cruise ships is a “growing concern” for Heggie, among both guests and crew. He has recommended adding mental health care to cruise ship infirmaries in his research .

“It’s really, really, really needed,” he said.

Dole also emphasized that “the reasons why people die by suicide are as unique as a fingerprint” and said it’s important not to generalize.

"The circumstances that lead up to completed suicide, and the things that sort of push people over the edge are incredibly unique," she said.

Do cruise ships have mental health resources?

If passengers find themselves in need of mental health support during a cruise, some lines do have resources available.

Passengers sailing with Carnival Corp., the parent company of brands including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, can contact onboard medical staff “who are available 24/7 for mental health support and other medical needs,” a spokesperson for the company said in an email.

“With a referral from the shipboard medical team, guests may also access tele-psychiatrist services for face-to-face consultations with these licensed specialists within 24 hours if needed,” the spokesperson added. The consultations are offered through a third-party company that connects passengers with U.S.-based psychiatrists (the company did not respond to USA TODAY’s request for comment).

While training in mental health care varies among onboard medical staff, they can “fulfill recommendations made by the psychiatrists.” There is a pharmacy on board with many medications used to treat mental health problems, and those not carried on the vessel can be ordered in a port.

Like other medical care, passengers have to pay for any costs associated with mental health services. “Travel insurance coverage varies by provider and typically covers acute-need services but usually includes limitations for pre-existing illnesses,” the spokesperson said. “We urge travelers to contact travel insurance providers directly for specific terms and conditions.”

Crew members can also see psychiatrists via telehealth with a referral from the onboard medical team. The company also has an employee assistance program that allows them to access free mental health services.

Royal Caribbean Group, another major cruise line operator, and Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade group, did not answer questions regarding onboard mental health resources before publishing. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. did not respond to a request for comment.

Cruise ships may also quarantine passengers deemed to be a threat to themselves or others, according to Michael Winkleman, a maritime attorney with Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A.

“Our team of onboard medical professionals safeguards the health and well-being of our guests and crew (including mental health), which may include placing a patient under secure watch in the medical center or in a cabin depending on the risk,” the Carnival Corp. spokesperson said.

While there are major differences – namely, being in the middle of the ocean – Winkleman said there are some commonalities between cruise lines’ approach and that of hotels or resorts, which often do not have on-site mental health providers. “They are just expecting to provide a fun, safe vacation for their guests,” he said.

Crises on cruises, like an overboard incident, for example, may also get outsized attention given their setting, Heggie added. "People are expecting to go and have a good time and have the vacation or holiday mindset, and, 'Oh, something bad happened.' "

However, Winkleman said he thinks cruise lines “could do a lot more” to provide mental health support to crew, many of whom work rigorous schedules on months-long contracts.

How passengers can care for their mental health

Travelers can take proactive steps to care for their mental health before a trip if need be. If passengers have a mental health provider, Dole recommends speaking with them beforehand and making sure they have any medication they might need.

Passengers can also reach out to their therapists mid-cruise to schedule a session as needed – though state laws regarding telehealth vary and could prevent them from accessing care. “But generally speaking, it's really about where the person resides,” Dole said. “So (if) you're on a work trip, and you're like, ‘I need to see my therapist,’ they'll see you.”

Riba noted that it may be more difficult to coordinate than at home with spotty cell service and possible time differences.

The 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline also works in U.S. states as well as territories like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

How safe are cruise stops?: Travel advisories are only one marker for destinations

Checking in with your fellow travelers can also be helpful. Dole said, “One of the biggest clues someone is struggling” is a change in behavior. Typically, that takes the form of withdrawal, but it could also manifest in people engaging in risky or dangerous behaviors.

“‘I noticed something is different,’” she suggested saying. “‘Is there something happening that you feel comfortable talking to me about?’ And that that's not going to make people be defensive as much as, ‘What's wrong? Are you okay? What's happening?’”

Dole recommended framing the question in a way that avoids sounding judgmental or accusatory. “But actually asking the question, especially for young people, can save someone's life,” she said.

If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call  988  any time day or night, or chat online.   Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.

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

30 Facts About Cruise Ships You Might Not Know

Posted: February 25, 2024 | Last updated: February 25, 2024

Cruises can provide passengers with relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Yet, beneath the surface of these floating resorts lies a world of secrets, quirks, and insider tips that only crew members and experienced passengers are privy to. We’re here to delve into the fascinating realm of cruise ship facts and hacks, unveiling the mysteries and sharing the wisdom gained from those who know the ins and outs of life at sea. From hidden crew facilities to the material of cabin walls, join us on a voyage to discover the little-known facts and practical advice that can enhance your next cruise adventure.

#1: Every Cruise Ship Has a Morgue on Board

It might sound morbid and the last thing you want to think about while on vacation, but every cruise ship is equipped with a small morgue. This precaution is in place to handle unforeseen circumstances that can occur during long journeys at sea. Cruise ships often carry thousands of passengers and crew members, and unfortunately, medical emergencies or fatalities can happen due to natural causes or accidents. The onboard morgue provides a secure and respectful place to store deceased individuals until they can be transported to a port of call or returned to their families. While it’s not a topic cruise lines advertise, these facilities are crucial to ensure that proper procedures are in place to address the unexpected and ensure the safety and dignity of all passengers and crew.

#2: The Ship Staff Keeps a Record of Guests’ Activity

Cruise ship staff diligently maintain logs that document virtually everything that occurs during a voyage. These records encompass a wide range of events, from significant incidents like onboard fires to seemingly trivial comments made by guests. While crew members are trained to maintain a pleasant demeanor, the logs serve crucial purposes beyond just recording events. They assist incoming crew members in understanding the voyage’s history, potential hazards, and the best ways to manage them. Additionally, these logs can act as a form of venting, allowing staff to express their frustrations or observations discreetly. Ultimately, these meticulous records help maintain a safe and well-informed cruise environment, benefiting both passengers and crew alike.

#3: Cruise Ships Have a Hidden Pool

It’s no secret that the pool area is often the most crowded on a cruise ship; after all, there’s nothing better than spending a relaxing day by the pool. For that reason, cruise ships frequently feature a hidden gem that remains largely unknown to passengers: a discreet pool area exclusively reserved for staff members. These secret pools offer cruise ship employees a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of their demanding work environment. Located in secluded corners of the ship, these oases provide a space for relaxation, recreation, and a chance to unwind without the constant presence of passengers. While passengers may never catch a glimpse of these covert pools, they serve as a well-deserved perk for hardworking crew members who dedicate themselves to ensuring an enjoyable voyage for all on board.

#4: Cruise Ship Staff Communicate Through Codes

Cruise ship staff members have a unique way of communicating through codes, ensuring passenger safety remains the top priority. These codes serve a dual purpose: maintaining order while allowing swift responses in emergencies. For instance, staff might use specific codes for tasks like cleaning up spills, handling medical situations, addressing fires, or reacting when someone falls overboard. When it comes to the latter, the code word “oscar” is commonly employed. This covert communication approach makes sense as it prevents unnecessary panic among passengers, ensuring that crew members can respond effectively and efficiently in various situations without causing undue alarm.

#5: Cruise Ship Casinos Are Bound to The Nearest City

Cruise ships frequently feature onboard casinos, thanks to their extensive travel through international waters where gambling is legally permitted. However, this maritime status also means that the gambling laws of any specific jurisdiction don’t bind these casinos. Instead, the rules can vary based on the vessel’s proximity to the nearest country or city. For instance, your chances of winning can fluctuate significantly depending on the ship’s geographical location in the open ocean. Cruise liners might even alter the number of decks designated for blackjack and other games. Basically, passengers should remain aware that the rules governing onboard gambling are flexible and subject to change depending on the ship’s location.

#6: Cruise Ships Have a Water Filtration System on Board

A cruise ship operates a lot like a microcosm of a bustling city, and this self-contained ecosystem relies on intricate systems to meet the needs of thousands of passengers and crew members. Among the ship’s vital components is a water filtration plant that ensures a constant supply of fresh, potable water for drinking, bathing, and various shipboard activities. This onboard water treatment facility utilizes advanced technology to purify seawater, removing impurities and making it safe for consumption. The efficiency of such systems highlights the ship’s ability to function as a self-sustaining city at sea, providing essential services to create a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone on board.

#7: You Can Hire “Genies” to Serve as Your Personal Concierge

For those seeking the ultimate cruise experience, many cruise ships offer a luxurious service known as “genies.” These attentive staff members serve as personal concierges, catering to your every desire while on board. While the price tag for this top-tier package reflects its exclusivity, the convenience and pampering it provides are often considered well worth it by avid cruisers. Genies can go the extra mile, from delivering gourmet meals to your stateroom to securing coveted event tickets. While some travelers may opt to maximize their genie experience, others rely on these dedicated staff members to handle a wide range of requests, transforming their cruise into a truly indulgent getaway.

#8: Passengers Gain Approximately a Pound a Day

The allure of delectable cuisine and indulgent dining experiences on cruises is well-known, and it’s not uncommon for passengers to gain approximately a pound each day while at sea. Some seasoned cruisers even claim the figure could be higher. The cruise environment encourages guests to savor a variety of culinary delights and cocktails, often in greater quantities than their usual routines at home. However, for those looking to maintain a healthier balance, there are strategies to mitigate the potential weight gain. Taking the stairs, utilizing onboard gyms, and utilizing jogging tracks are some ways to counteract the temptation and ensure the cruise experience remains enjoyable without taking a toll on one’s waistline.

#9: Despite Their Size, Cruise Ships Are Susceptible to Swaying

While cruise ships offer idyllic images of smooth sailing in marketing materials, they are not impervious to the challenges posed by rough seas. Despite their substantial size, cruise ships have a relatively top-heavy design, rendering them susceptible to swaying and rolling when confronted with stormy weather and choppy waters. This reality can make for a less-than-pleasant experience for passengers, especially those who have yet to acclimate to the ship’s motion. For those lacking their sea legs, a significant portion of their cruise may be spent seeking solace in the confines of the ship’s interior, as they wait for the sea conditions to stabilize and provide a smoother voyage.

#10: Cruise Ship Staff Members Are Equipped to Deal with Pirate Invasions

Cruise ships can offer passengers a memorable experience, but an unexpected threat lingers beneath the surface—pirate invasions. While this risk may be alarming, cruise ship crews are well-prepared to handle such situations, even though the specifics of their anti-piracy training remain a closely guarded secret. Passengers can take some comfort in knowing that nearly every crew member is trained to respond effectively to pirate attacks, should they occur. This training ensures that cruise ships can navigate not only the challenges of the open sea but also the potential dangers posed by pirates, allowing passengers to enjoy their voyages with peace of mind.

#11: Cruise Ships Are Equipped with a Jail or a Brig

Despite their reputation as floating paradises, cruise ships are equipped with facilities for handling unruly passengers. Many vessels are equipped with a designated holding area, commonly referred to as the “brig” or “jail.” This secure space serves as a temporary detention area for individuals who engage in disruptive or illegal behavior while onboard. Although it’s rarely used, it ensures the safety and security of the ship and its passengers. Cruise lines aim to create a pleasant experience for everyone, but they are prepared to respond appropriately when issues arise, ensuring that the majority of passengers can continue to enjoy their vacation without disruption.

#12: Crew Members Aren’t Supposed to Fraternize with Passengers

Cruise ship staff are typically discouraged from engaging in personal relationships or fraternizing with passengers. This policy is in place to maintain a professional environment and prevent any potential conflicts of interest. While staff members are trained to be friendly and accommodating, their interactions with guests are expected to remain within the boundaries of professionalism. This rule helps ensure that the cruise experience is enjoyable and impartial for all passengers and avoids any perceptions of favoritism. However, some cruise lines may have specific guidelines regarding staff and passenger interactions, and these policies can vary from one company to another.

#13: Cruise Ships Have Hidden Guards on Board

Certain cruise ships, particularly those sailing through regions with piracy concerns, may employ the services of hidden armed guards onboard. These security personnel are discreetly positioned to safeguard the vessel and its passengers from potential threats. While their presence might not be readily apparent to passengers, they serve as a deterrent and can respond swiftly in the event of a security issue. Cruise lines take passenger safety seriously and implement various security measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable voyage. However, the specifics of these security arrangements, including the use of armed guards, are typically kept confidential to maintain the overall sense of security onboard.

#14: Millennials Like Going on Cruises

In the world of cruise travel, Millennials are making waves as the fastest-growing segment of repeat cruisers. According to a 2023 report by the Cruise Lines International Association, over 80% of Millennials who have experienced the joy of cruising are eager to set sail again, outpacing other age groups by a substantial margin. What’s even more interesting is that Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, are displaying a strong interest in cruising, with over 70% expressing a desire to embark on their maiden voyage, even if they haven’t done so yet. While traditional cruise destinations like the Caribbean remain popular among Millennials, their adventurous spirit extends to more exotic locales, including Asia, Africa, Central America, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East.

#15: Cruise Ship Superstitions

Cruise ships are no stranger to superstitions, and one of the most common quirks is the omission of a deck 13. Passengers riding elevators might find themselves traveling from floors 12 to 14, with deck 13 conspicuously missing. This practice stems from the widespread belief in the unluckiness associated with the number 13. Interestingly, some cruise lines add a twist to this tradition by avoiding a deck 17, influenced by an Italian superstition similar to the fear of 13. These maritime superstitions, though lighthearted, demonstrate the lengths to which the cruise industry goes to ensure passengers have a comfortable and worry-free voyage.

#16: Crew Members Enjoy Discounted Drinks

Cruise ship crew members often enjoy steep discounts on alcohol, which can contribute to their jovial demeanor when off-duty. However, cruise lines assert that they conduct random tests to deter employees from drinking while on the job. Despite these measures, former crew members suggest that alcohol consumption among staff may be more prevalent than cruise companies acknowledge. According to their accounts, drinking is a fairly common pastime for crew members, raising questions about the effectiveness of the cruise lines’ testing protocols and highlighting the lighthearted, unofficial side of ship life that passengers may not always see. Staff members deserve to have some fun too, right?

#17: Some Sweet Cruise Ship Statistics

Cruise ships are veritable feasting grounds, with an astonishing quantity of food consumed during each voyage. Over a typical 7-day cruise, a large ship manages to devour a staggering 45,000 eggs, brew up 1,800 pounds of coffee, 20,000 ice cream cones (!) and consume a whopping 9,000 pounds of lettuce. While pizza consumption isn’t specified, it’s safe to assume that it’s also a significant figure, considering the ship’s diverse culinary offerings. Despite the elimination of the midnight buffet on most cruise lines in recent years, these floating cities continue to satisfy passengers’ appetites with an abundance of delectable dishes, making dining a prominent highlight of the cruise experience.

#18: Cruise Ships Security

Did you know that cruise ship security and surveillance rival that of casinos, ensuring passengers’ safety and monitoring activities across the ship? Virtually anywhere you go on board is under watchful eyes, except your private cabin. This stringent surveillance serves multiple purposes, primarily enhancing passenger safety in cases of crime or potential overboard incidents. It also allows for post-incident reviews to determine what went wrong in emergencies, akin to the functionality of an airplane’s black box. This comprehensive security infrastructure is a vital component of cruise ship operations, aimed at preventing mishaps and promptly addressing any issues that may arise during the voyage.

#19: Cruise Ships Are Perfect for Retirement, Apparently

Some retirees have discovered an affordable alternative to traditional senior residences by spending their golden years on a cruise ship, claiming it’s more cost-effective. These intrepid seniors find that, when factoring in the expenses of room, board, healthcare, entertainment, and amenities on a cruise ship, it can be competitively priced compared to the often steep fees associated with senior living communities. Additionally, cruise ships offer the allure of constant travel and exploration, adding to the appeal of this unique retirement option. While it may not be for everyone, for some adventurous seniors, retiring on a cruise ship provides both affordability and an exciting lifestyle.

#20: There’s a Doctor, But No Dentist on Board

While cruise ships typically have a doctor and nurse on board to address various medical concerns, one notable absence is a dentist. Cruise ship medical facilities are primarily designed to handle general medical issues, injuries, and emergencies, but they often lack the equipment and expertise required for dental care. Passengers with dental problems may receive pain relief and basic first aid, but for more extensive dental treatments, they would need to wait until the ship docks at a port with suitable dental services. It’s a notable limitation, and passengers are advised to address any dental concerns before embarking on a cruise to ensure a comfortable voyage.

#21: Cruise Ships Keep Doors Unlocked – for Good Reason

Onboard a cruise ship, it might come as a surprise that most doors, apart from passengers’ cabin doors, aren’t equipped with locks. However, this design is primarily for safety considerations. In the event of an emergency, such as a fire or a need for evacuation, quick and unrestricted access throughout the ship is crucial for both passengers and crew. Locking doors could potentially trap individuals in unsafe areas during a crisis, which is why these doors are left without locks. While it might initially seem unsettling, it’s a prudent measure to ensure everyone’s safety in challenging situations at sea.

#22: Waste Disposal on Cruise Ships

When it comes to waste disposal on cruise ships, it’s often a matter of out of sight, out of mind. These vessels typically release treated human waste into the ocean when they are approximately 12 miles from the shore. Although they are obliged to treat the waste – and often do so – the environmental impact remains a concern. Not all countries have uniform regulations in place, leading to occasional discharge in regions governed by more lenient laws. A recent example involved U.S. cruise ships dumping waste near British Columbia, prompting complaints from Canadian residents about the environmental consequences of these practices.

#23: Living in Closed Quarters

The sleeping quarters of crew members on cruise ships are often a contrast to the luxurious cabins enjoyed by passengers. These quarters are typically compact, functional spaces with shared accommodations. Crew members often bunk in rather small rooms with limited personal space, sometimes even sharing with several colleagues in shifts. The hierarchy of positions aboard determines the quality of these accommodations, with higher-ranking staff having more comfortable living conditions. Crew members’ living quarters are primarily designed for rest and recuperation, providing a place to recharge before their next shift. Luckily, they have other facilities where they can enjoy some rest and relaxation, such as the bar or pool area.

#24: Utilizing the Adult-Only Areas

If you’ve ever gone on a cruise, you know that amidst the thousands of passengers on a cruise ship, it’s not always easy to find a tranquil escape, especially when families with children are part of the mix. Fortunately, cruise ships offer a sanctuary for adults seeking a serene retreat from the bustling crowds. Most cruise ships designate specific adult-only areas, making it convenient for passengers looking to unwind. Locating these serene spots is typically straightforward, but if you ever need assistance, the helpful crew members are readily available to guide you to these tranquil havens, ensuring that your vacation includes the relaxation you desire.

#25: Cruise Ship Cabin Walls Are Made of Metal

It may come as a surprise to some, but cruise cabin walls and doors are typically constructed from metal. This design is primarily rooted in safety considerations, with a focus on fire safety in particular. However, this feature also offers some unexpected advantages for passengers. Here’s a clever cruise cabin hack suggested by passengers: bringing along magnet hooks and clips, allowing you to create additional storage within your stateroom. These metal walls provide an excellent surface for attaching these useful accessories, making your cruise experience even more convenient and organized.

#26: Cruise Ships Might Get More Expensive Over Time

Cruise ship vacations have historically been affordable due in part to cruise lines leveraging tax loopholes by registering their vessels in foreign countries. This practice allows them to avoid paying U.S. taxes. However, calls to address these loopholes have been growing louder in recent times. While no immediate changes have occurred, the cruise industry may eventually face increased expenses if regulations are tightened. Consequently, cruise costs could potentially rise as cruise lines adapt to evolving tax policies and the industry faces new financial challenges in the future.

#27: Hacking the All-You-Can-Eat Buffet

While on a cruise ship, one tempting feature that’s hard to resist is the all-you-can-eat buffet. It’s not a secret, but it’s worth being mindful of how much you indulge while on vacation. As we revealed before, most passengers end up gaining around 5 to 10 pounds during their cruise. Fortunately for passengers concerned about weight gain, cruise ships are equipped with onboard gyms, although exercising might be the last thing on your mind during a vacation. It’s a worthwhile endeavor to stick to your fitness routine or even start a new one while cruising to balance out the delectable temptations offered at the buffet.

#28: It’s Important to Be on Time

It seems like a common understanding, but a crucial one: cruise ships won’t wait around at port for straggling passengers. If you happen to be late returning to the ship, you might find yourself watching as it sails away without you. Given the vast number of passengers on board, it’s simply not practical for a cruise ship to delay departure for a few individuals. To avoid this unfortunate scenario, always ensure you return to the ship well before its scheduled departure time. Carrying your documents and passport with you is also a wise precaution, just in case you find yourself left behind in a foreign port.

#29: Trying to Be More Environment-Friendly

Cruise ships have been increasingly embracing environmental initiatives in recent years to reduce their impact on the planet. Many cruise lines are investing in cleaner and more fuel-efficient technologies, such as LNG-powered ships and exhaust gas cleaning systems to reduce emissions. They’re also implementing waste reduction and recycling programs to minimize ocean pollution. In addition, cruise ships are taking steps to reduce single-use plastics on board and improve energy efficiency through advanced lighting and HVAC systems. By adopting these environmentally friendly measures, cruise lines aim to preserve the pristine destinations they visit and meet the growing demand for sustainable travel options among passengers.

#30: Make Sure to Give Crew Members a Positive Review

Cruise ship crew members depend on positive passenger reviews for their earnings. While the ship’s amenities are designed for passenger enjoyment, crew members’ pay is often determined by the reviews they receive. Good reviews can result in a substantial bonus that helps compensate for their relatively low salaries. Conversely, negative feedback can mean the loss of that bonus, leaving them with a relatively modest income. It’s a system akin to how waitstaff relies on tips rather than a fixed salary. While passengers enjoy their vacations, crew members work diligently to ensure a memorable experience, making these reviews a crucial aspect of their livelihoods.

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How these cruise passengers missed boarding, got stranded in Africa

Both Americans and Australians were left at port after an excursion ran long.

After what seemed like a dream trip, several American travelers were left stranded at port in West Africa mid-cruise while traveling from Cape Town, South Africa, to Barcelona, Spain.

Jay and Jill Campbell told ABC News Myrtle Beach affiliate WPDE that they were in the first week of a three week voyage aboard Norwegian Cruise Lines when they stopped just off the coast of West Africa.

The couple and others opted to tour the nearby island of São Tomé and Príncipe on the afternoon of March 27, and when the excursion ran late, they said they brought it to the guides' attention.

"We were like, 'our time is getting short,'" Jay Campbell recalled, at which point he said the guide let them know, "'No problem we can get you back in an hour.'"

Upon their return, the passengers said cruise officials refused to let them aboard the ship, even as the local Coast Guard had ferried the group to the anchored vessel.

"The harbormaster tried to call the ship. The captain refused the call. We sent emails to NCL the customer service emergency number," Jay Campbell said. "They said the only way for us to get in touch with the ship is via email. They're not responding to our emails."

The Campbells say they were left stranded along with four other Americans and two Australians -- of whom one is a paraplegic, one has a heart condition and one is pregnant. Some did not have credit cards or medication that was left on board.

Cruise expert Stewart Chiron, known as The Cruise Guy, told ABC News that "the bottom line was, they were hours late, the ship was ready to go."

MORE: Norwegian Cruise Line passengers claim Antarctica voyage was rerouted mid-trip

"More than likely that the anchor was already up, and the ship was already possibly moving," he said.

He continued, "Any operation at that point to get these passengers back on the ship would have caused tremendous delays, and safety would have been a major concern."

In a statement to ABC News, a spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Lines said, "On the afternoon of March 27, 2024, while the ship was in São Tomé and Príncipe, an African island nation, eight guests who were on the island on a private tour not organized through us missed the last tender back to the vessel, therefore not meeting the all aboard time of 3 p.m. local time."

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They continued, "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 communication and posted just before exiting the vessel."

The spokesperson added that the passports for the passengers who did not return at the all aboard time "were delivered to the local port agents to retrieve when they returned to the port, as per the regular protocol."

"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," they said.

The Campbells said that their eight person group spent 15 hours traveling through six countries in an attempt to rejoin the Norwegian Dawn ship in Banjul, Gambia, on April 1. However, the ship couldn't dock due to low tide, so they are now trying to get to Senegal where the ship is meant to dock on Tuesday.

The Norwegian spokesperson said, "Unfortunately the ship was unable to safely dock in the destination 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 cruise line contacted the guests "regarding this itinerary adjustment and provided them with authorization to rejoin the ship at Dakar, Senegal on April 2, 2024."

In light of the "series of unfortunate events outside of our control," the spokesperson said Norwegian Cruise Lines "will be reimbursing these eight guests for their travel costs from Banjur, Gambia to Dakar, Senegal" and are still in communication with the guests to provide additional information as it becomes available.

MORE: Meet the cruise couple who have spent over 450 days at sea so far

In a separate, unrelated situation that took place coincidentally on the same day of the voyage, the spokesperson said, "An 80-year-old woman was medically disembarked after being evaluated by our onboard medical team, who thought it best that she receive further assessment and treatment as needed from a local hospital."

"In instances such as these, as the guest was released from the hospital and in a coherent state, our protocol is to contact the guest directly, as we would not have the authority to share any medical details with anyone else without their expressed consent," the spokesperson added, saying they worked with the port agent to receive updates.

"The guest has since been escorted on a flight to Lisbon, Portugal, and then put in the care of airport staff to continue her journey to the United States, where she has now made a safe return," they said.

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March 27, 2024 - Baltimore Key Bridge collapse

By Kathleen Magramo , Antoinette Radford, Alisha Ebrahimji , Maureen Chowdhury , Elise Hammond , Tori B. Powell and Aditi Sangal , CNN

Our live coverage of the Baltimore bridge collapse has moved here .

Here's what you should know about the Key Bridge collapse

From CNN staff

Officials recovered the bodies of two construction workers who were on Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge when it collapsed early Tuesday morning after a 984-foot-long cargo ship collided into a pillar.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore called the collapse Wednesday " a global crisis ."

"The national economy and the world's economy depends on the Port of Baltimore. The port handles more cars and more farm equipment than any other port in the country," Moore said.

Here's what you should know:

• The victims: The six people who are presumed dead were from Mexico Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras, according to Col. Roland L. Butler Jr, the superintendent of Maryland State Police. Two bodies were recovered and have been identified as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes from Mexico and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera from Guatemala. The two workers were filling potholes on the bridge and were later found trapped in a red pickup truck in about 25 feet of water, Butler said. The FBI is handling notifying the victims' families, Butler said.
• Recovery efforts: Authorities are pausing search efforts for the four other workers who are presumed dead, because additional vehicles are encased in concrete and other debris, making it unsafe for divers, Butler said. Once salvage operations clear the debris, divers will search for more remains, he said.
• The investigation: The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the fatal incident, according to the agency's chair Jennifer Homendy. During a Wednesday news conference, Homendy said there were 21 crew members and two pilots on board the Dali cargo ship when it crashed into the bridge. She also said a senior NTSB hazmat investigator identified 56 containers of hazardous material, and that some containers are in the water. The agency received six hours of voyage data from the ship and the investigation could take 12 to 24 months to complete, Homendy said. She emphasized that NTSB will not analyze information collected or provide conclusions while on scene of the collapse.
• Looking forward: Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said rebuilding the bridge will not be "quick or easy" but that it will get done. He said there are four main focus points ahead: reopening the port, dealing with supply chain issues until its reopening, rebuilding the bridge and dealing with traffic issues until the bridge is rebuilt. Biden  pledged the full support  of the federal government in the response and recovery efforts. His administration has already conveyed a sense of urgency to open up federal funding to remove debris and ultimately rebuild the bridge. Maryland has submitted a request to the Biden administration for emergency relief funds "to assist in our work going forward," Moore said Wednesday.

It's almost impossible to place people on the bow of ship due to the unstable structure, fire official says

 From CNN's Sarah Engel

Baltimore City Fire Chief James Wallace said Wednesday that the cargo ship's bridge structure and containers at the bow remain unstable.

"It's going to be very difficult, if not impossible, and very dangerous, to place people on the bow of that boat right now," Wallace told CNN's Kaitlan Collins.

"Naturally, we're still very cognizant of the fact that there are hazardous materials on board the vessel itself," Wallace said, alluding to the National Transportation Safety Board saying earlier that 56 containers were carrying hazardous materials.

Wallace said his team is relying heavily on aerial recognizance, including drones. "That's the only way we're able to see in," he said.  

He added that the aerial surveillance has "been able to really assure us right now we have no [chemical] reactions on board." 

"It's just utter devastation," NTSB chief says of the bridge collapse site

From CNN's Aditi Sangal

Jennifer Homendy, chair of the National Transportation Safety Board, called the site of the Key Bridge collapse "devastating."

"It's pretty devastating, certainly, seeing not just what's going on with the cargo containers, but just looking at what was a bridge span — three bridge spans that is pretty much gone. It's just utter devastation," she said at Wednesday evening's news briefing.

She added that she is thinking of families who lost loved ones and those who are waiting to reunite with their lived ones.

NTSB interviewed the Dali's captain and some other crew members today, agency chief says

The National Transportation Safety Board has interviewed the ship's captain, his mate, the chief engineer and one other engineer today, according to Chair Jennifer Homendy.

The two pilots on board the Dali at the time of collision will be interviewed tomorrow, she added.

Cargo ship's voyage data recorder is basic when compared to an airplane's, NTSB chair says

From CNN's Tori B. Powell

The voyage data recorder on the cargo ship Dali was a "newer model" but is considered basic when compared to that on an airplane, according to National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy.

"But it is very basic compared to say, a flight data recorder, where we would have 1,000 parameters," she said at a news conference on Wednesday.

The NTSB chief investigator Marcel Muise added:

"It's not a ship-wide system recorder, so most of the sensors that are being recorded are from the bridge. So things like GPS, the audio, rudder feedback, rudder commands are recorded on there. But not engineering, the temperature of each cylinder, power distribution sensors."

There were no tug boats with Dali at the time of the collision. That's normal, NTSB chief says

There were no tugs with Dali when the cargo vessel collided with Baltimore's Key Bridge, which is normal protocol, according to National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy.

Remember: At 01:26:39 on Tuesday, Dali's pilot made a general very high frequency (VHF) radio call for tugs in the vicinity to assist, the NTSB investigator Marcel Muise had said.

"The tugs help the vessel leave the dock, leave the port and get into the main ship channel. And then they leave. Once it's on its way, it's a straight shot through the channel. So there are no tugs with the vessel at the time. So they were calling for tugs," she said.

NTSB chair says she saw some containers that were carrying hazardous materials in the water

National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy said she did see some of the 56 containers that were carrying hazardous materials in the water.

When asked how many

When asked how many containers of hazardous materials were in the water, Homendy said:

"I did see some containers in the water, and some breached significantly on the vessel itself," she said. "I don't have an exact number, but it's something that we can provide in an update."

Homendy said that a preliminary report should be out in two to four weeks.

This post has been updated with more quotes from Homendy.

Bridge did not have any redundancy, unlike the preferred method for building bridges today, NTSB chair says

Baltimore's Key Bridge did not have any redundancy, which is included in the preferred method of building bridges in the present day, according to National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy.

"The bridge is a fracture critical," she explained. "What that means is if a member fails that would likely cause a portion of, or the entire bridge, to collapse, there's no redundancy. The preferred method for building bridges today is that there is redundancy built in, whether that's transmitting loads to another member or some sort of structural redundancy. This bridge did not have redundancy," Homendy said.

There are 17,468 fracture critical bridges in the United States out of 615,000 bridges total, she said, citing the Federal Highway Administration.

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Andrea Zito

Andrea Zito, Swan Hellenic’s Chief Executive Officer and a Reserve Officer in the Italian Navy, has a long and distinguished c-suite career in the cruise industry. Born in Trieste, he studied in Genoa, gaining an MSc in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. Remaining in Genoa, he worked in the offshore, shipping and cruise industries for many years before establishing himself in the Principality of Monaco.

His first job was with Saipem in Milano, where he worked in offshore vessels, semisubmersibles and jack ups. He then moved to a professional partnership with Martinoli Group where he was Project Manager for various Costa Cruises ships built in the early 1990 and managed several Costa vessels from Genova and Miami office before settling in Monaco in 1995.

When Costa was acquired by Carnival Corp in 1997, Andrea expanded the ship management activities in Monaco working for various operators of oil tanker operators to cruise companies, including Festival and Renaissance Cruises, until his company was acquired by V-Ships in 2005.

Andrea stayed with V-Ships until 2017, first as CEO of V-Ships Leisure and then as Chief Tech Officer of V-Group. Not long after the fourth round of V-Group’s private equity transaction, client Silversea took its ship management in-house and brought Andrea with them, in agreement with V-Group, of which he remains a shareholder. As Senior Vice President Operation Safety and Crewing, he managed Silversea’s new build programme and majority acquisition by Royal Caribbean. Then, in early 2020, Andrea embarked on another completely new adventure. Leaving Silversea, he and a small number of investors signed a contract for three new expedition ships from Helsinki Shipyard, while acquiring the Swan Hellenic name to renew its founders’ iconic vision of cultural expedition cruising.