Cruises in Exotic Locations Precautions

Cruises in Exotic Location Precautions

When taking cruises in exotic locations precautions need to be taken to ensure both our safety and comfort. Here’s what to keep in mind.

Health and Safety Precautions

1. Get Vaccinated

• • Research if any vaccinations are required or recommended for the destinations you’ll be visiting (e.g., yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A)
  • Carry a vaccination card or proof of immunizations, especially for countries that require it for entry.

2. Pack a First-Aid Kit

• • Include medications for common ailments (seasickness, headaches, digestive issues) and any personal prescriptions. Medical services can be limited or costly onboard.
  • Insect Repellant: Don’t forget essentials like insect repellent (for mosquito-borne diseases), sunscreen, and basic first aid supplies (bandages, antiseptic).

3. Prepare for Seasickness

• • Long cruises can encounter rough waters. Bring seasickness medications or remedies, such as motion sickness bands or ginger candies, especially for ocean crossings.

4. Stay Hydrated and Avoid Unsafe Water

• • Stay hydrated, especially in hot or tropical climates. Be cautious with drinking water at ports, particularly in developing countries—stick to bottled water when unsure.

5. Practice Hand Hygiene

• • Close quarters on cruise ships can lead to the spread of illness. Use hand sanitizer regularly, especially before meals or after touching surfaces. Wash hands frequently to avoid gastrointestinal bugs like norovirus.

6. Be Aware of Health Services

• • Research the ship’s medical facilities before traveling, and find out what medical assistance is available at your destinations. Have contact info for local hospitals at each port, just in case.

Travel and Security Precautions

1. Get Travel Insurance

• • Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and evacuations, particularly in remote areas. Confirm the policy includes coverage for cruise travel.

2. Research Local Laws and Customs

• • Know the local laws, cultural practices, and customs at the ports you will visit. Some places may have strict laws on things like alcohol consumption, dress code, or behavior.

3. Avoid Remote or Unsafe Areas

• • Stick to well-known, reputable excursions, especially in foreign or remote places. Avoid venturing alone in areas that are known for high crime rates or political instability.

4. Guard Your Documents and Valuables

• Keep important documents like your passport, cruise tickets, and any visas secure, either in a cabin safe or on your person when you go ashore.
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash, and be mindful of pickpockets at tourist-heavy destinations.

Environmental and Packing Considerations

1. Pack for Varying Climates:

• • If you’re traveling to multiple climates (e.g., tropical islands followed by colder areas), pack layers and a mix of warm-weather and cool-weather clothing.
  • Bring waterproof gear (jackets, shoes) for unexpected rain or excursions involving water activities.

2. Watch for Jet Lag

• • If your cruise involves a long flight to the port of departure, prepare for jet lag. Try to arrive a day or two early to acclimate before the cruise.

3. Plan for Limited Connectivity

• • On long, remote cruises, Wi-Fi can be expensive and limited. Download offline maps, books, and entertainment in advance. Let friends or family know that communication might be sparse during the cruise.

4. Time Zone Differences

• • On longer cruises to distant places, you may cross multiple time zones. Be mindful of time changes, especially when planning excursions or onboard activities.

Financial and Logistical Precautions

1. Notify Your Bank:

• • Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid issues with using your cards in foreign locations. Bring multiple forms of payment in case of issues with one.

2. Exchange Currency in Advance

• • Research the currencies used at your destinations. It’s often helpful to carry local currency for smaller purchases or tipping in ports. Cruise ships usually offer currency exchange services, but at higher rates.

3. Understand Entry Requirements

• • Check visa requirements for each country you’re visiting. Some destinations may require you to have a visa, even for a short day trip off the ship.

Excursion and Adventure Precautions

1. Choose Reputable Tour Operators:

• • If booking excursions independently of the cruise line, ensure the operator is reputable, licensed, and insured. Cruise lines often vet the operators they partner with, which can add a layer of security.

2. Pack for Shore Excursions

• • Bring a day pack with essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and copies of important documents. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for the type of excursion you’ll be taking (hiking, city walking, etc.).

3. Stay Aware of Time Limits

• • Always keep track of time while onshore and leave plenty of time to get back to the ship. Ships won’t wait for passengers who are late due to independent excursions.