Staying Safe on a Student Cruise
Cruise ships have security staff, medical centers and strict rules, which is part of why parents often feel better about a cruise than a beach-town hotel. Still, a safe trip depends on the choices each traveler makes. These habits help.
Stick with your group
Agree on meeting points and check in with each other, especially at night and in port.
Know your limits
Respect the drinking rules, pace yourself and never leave a drink unattended.
Respect the railings
Never sit on, climb or lean over railings or balconies. Ships take this extremely seriously.
Watch the clock in port
Return well before all-aboard time. The ship will not wait for late passengers.
Carry essentials ashore
Your ship card, photo ID, the ship’s port agent details and some cash.
Use the ship’s help
Report anything that worries you to security or guest services right away.
Before You Leave Home
- Make sure your passport or required ID is valid well beyond your travel dates. The U.S. State Department passport pages explain how to apply or renew.
- Share your itinerary and the ship’s contact details with family.
- Buy travel insurance that includes medical coverage; your home health plan may not cover you at sea or abroad.
- Pack any prescription medicines in your carry-on, in original containers.
- Save emergency numbers and your cabin number in your phone.
Ashore and in the Water
Port days are the highlight of most student cruises, and they are where most problems happen. Book reputable tours, keep valuables to a minimum, swim at beaches with good conditions and avoid going off alone with strangers. Sunburn and dehydration are the most common complaints in the Caribbean, so use reef-safe sunscreen and drink water. For more detail, our sister site Cruising Is Safe covers ship and port safety calmly and in depth, and Cruising Checklist has packing lists.
If Something Goes Wrong
- Feel unwell? Visit the ship’s medical center; charges usually go on your onboard account, which is why insurance matters.
- Lost a friend? Go to guest services; the ship can help locate guests on board.
- Missed the ship? Contact the cruise line’s port agent at once; you will need to reach the next port at your own cost.
- Lost your card or ID? Tell guest services immediately so it can be cancelled and replaced.
- Feel unsafe? Contact ship security straight away, at any hour.
Plan a Safe, Fun Trip
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise can recommend ships and itineraries that suit young travelers and explain the rules before you book.
Ask Mister Cruise