10 Things You Should Never Do On a Boat Cruise

Cruising is an amazing way to spend a vacation, spending time enjoying the sea while mingling and meeting new people may just be the thing you need to relax and unwind.

However, it’s important to be aware of some things you should never do while on a cruise. Some of these tips help ensure your safety, while others make you a much better co-traveler. Here are 10 things you should not do while on a cruise:

1. Don’t drink and cruise

Cruise ships are alcohol-free zones, so drinking and cruising are off-limits. Passengers caught violating the rules will be kicked off the ship. When drinking aboard a boat, it’s easy to become distracted and not pay attention to your surroundings.

2. Don’t gamble

Cruise ship gambling is prohibited on all lines except for ships operated by Carnival Cruise Lines, which has casinos on five of its six ships. Gambling is strictly prohibited on the Royal Caribbean cruise line and the MSC cruise line as well. Rules regarding gambling on other cruise lines may vary by ship. 

3. Don’t be a litterbug

The number-one thing passengers hate about other cruisers is that they leave trash everywhere they go, including in the elevator, on the ship’s balcony, and even in the ocean! Be sure to pick up after yourself and help keep the ship clean. If you spill something or drop something on the floor, be sure to pick it up right away.

4. Don’t overeat in the buffet

Some cruise lines have a reputation for serving huge portions in buffet restaurants. Travelers may get carried away and eat way more than they should, especially in public. If you have a large appetite, ask the wait staff to bring your meal to your room so you can enjoy your dinner in your pajamas or sit at the specialty restaurants instead.

5. Don’t bring food or drinks to the beach

By law, any food or drinks brought to a beach by the passengers of a cruise ship must be consumed in that area and cannot be taken back to the cruise ship. The beach areas on cruise ships are also strictly prohibited from smoking, so if you’re a smoker, you’ll have to leave the beach to enjoy a cigarette.

6. Don’t get sunburned

The sun is more potent at sea than it is on land, so be careful and protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing such as a hat, sunglasses, and clothing that covers your arms and legs. You should also take frequent breaks in the shade to cool off. 

7. Don’t stare at other passengers 

It’s understandable that you might want to admire your gorgeous surroundings and new friends, but don’t spend too much time staring at the other guests on board — they might just be reading a magazine and don’t want to be disturbed! If you’ve met someone you want to get to know better, try striking up a conversation instead of staring. It’s better to be friendly and approachable than shy and reserved.

8. Don’t invite strangers to your cabin

Although you may be friendly with many of the other passengers on board, inviting them to your room could be potentially dangerous. You don’t know what someone might have on them in their luggage, and you shouldn’t have to open your door to a complete stranger. It is advisable to only let in crew members where necessary. 

9. Don’t give your room key to anyone but the crew

Unless you are giving the room key to your partner or friend, do not give it to anyone but a member of the crew. This is because most of the cabins on board do not have locks on the doors. If you give your room key to a stranger and they are not satisfied with their accommodation, they can leave your belongings behind and you will not be reimbursed. It is in your best interest to keep your key to yourself at all times and only share it with members of the crew when necessary. 

10. Don’t go swimming alone

If you don’t know how to swim, you should be accompanied by a crew member or a lifeguard at all times when near the water. Keep in mind that currents in the sea can be extremely strong and even the most experienced swimmers can get into trouble if they attempt to swim against the current for too long. If you are feeling tired or sick at any time, you should play it safe and stay away from the water until you are feeling well again.

The above list is a list of 10 things you should NOT do while you’re on a cruise vacation. If you have any questions or concerns about any other aspect of your cruise experience, don’t hesitate to ask your onboard host. 

For more tips on making the most of your vacation, read our blog titled “Things to know when embarking on a boat cruise”