Cruises are an exciting way to travel for countless New York residents, especially those who enjoy vacationing at sea. Many people feel safe on cruise ships since most cruise lines have strict safety protocols. However, there are some potentially dangerous activities that cruise-lovers must consider.
Eating at the buffet
Cruise ships offer an abundance of food choices at the buffet, and many vacationers love indulging in foods they typically don’t consume. This can be dangerous, especially for those who have unknown foodborne allergies. The self-service setup at buffets also poses a danger, since dozens of people consume the food, touch the utensils, and circle around the buffet on a continuous basis. Bacteria and illness spread easily in buffet-style settings, so be cautious. It’s not uncommon for cruisers to come down with food poisoning.
Drinking too much
Overindulging in alcohol can be dangerous for cruisers since it’s not safe to be impaired when surrounded by water. Falling off of decks and even drowning occurs all too frequently on cruise ships. Drinking on cruises is a normal and fun activity, but it’s important to consume alcohol responsibly in order to minimize your risk of alcohol-related accidents or cruise ship injuries.
Running on deck
Running on deck is typically not allowed, but many cruisers do it anyway, especially young children. This can be very dangerous, as it puts you at risk for severe falls. Many cruise ships have resin decks and marble floors, which are extremely slippery when wet. Cruise floors and stairs aren’t always very stable either, so it’s important to take your time and watch your step.
Off-ship excursions
It’s essential to be extremely cautious when enjoying off-ship activities among locals. Vacationers are often targeted by locals with bad intentions, so it’s a good idea not to go too far from the port and to stay in an area that vacationers frequent. Avoid visiting unknown towns where you might get stuck without transportation. Cruise ships will leave without you if you’re not back in time, which can put you in a very difficult and potentially dangerous situation.