Are you heading out to sea soon? Better be safe out there since the waters, particularly the North Sea, are angry! Cruises worldwide are being knocked around, leaving passengers stranded for days in open waters. Recently, a Norwegian cruise ship carrying 266 passengers and 131 crew suffered a nightmare of a powerful storm, with some passengers fearing the boat may capsize. Fortunately, nobody was hurt.
Let’s explore the latest advancements in cruise ship safety measures, the unique lifestyles of residents on cruise ships, and insurance coverage tailored for cruise ship residents and passengers.
Safety First
Always remember to stay safe when going on a cruise. Go easy when you first arrive on board, indulging in happy hour cocktails so you can pay attention when the staff explains the emergency protocols. Cutting-edge navigation technologies implemented on modern cruise ships, such as advanced GPS systems, radar technology and collision avoidance, enhance safety by providing real-time data, route planning optimization and early detection of hazards. These technologies address challenges like adverse weather conditions and crowded waterways to ensure a smooth and secure cruising experience. Of course, storms are unavoidable, but listen to protocols when the ship starts rocking and try not to panic!
The last thing you want is to be in a situation with everyone on board the vessel in fight-or-flight mode. When the pandemic first started, all cruises were put on hold. Then, when they resumed operations, several cruises became “covid cruises.” What a terrible way to spend your vacation than to be stuck in a small room with COVID-19, the flu or any other illness. ALWAYS be sure to take health precautions. If you are starting to feel sick, wear a mask and vampire cough so you do not spread germs. Keep hand sanitizer on you, and remember to wash your hands regularly and for a full 20 seconds.
Ship Life
Many cruise fans are ready to leave their permanent land home for a permanent residence aboard a cruise ship. Since many can work remotely nowadays, taking a long getaway sounds like a dream come true! Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise sailed off in December, and for nine months, passengers will see 11 wonders of the world and 65 countries in 274 nights. Sounds like this cruise might be the start of a new reality show or movie! Another new residential cruise is called the Community at Seas and is launching this year. It offers fully furnished one-to-four-bedroom residences along with studio and two-story penthouses. Other luxury yachts, including The World, which is parked in Hong Kong, provide the same type of living spaces, but they are invite-only, and one must be a millionaire! All these cruises will offer all-inclusive benefits and sustainable initiatives. Ages range from young to old, and children can continue in education with programs and education spaces in some.
Please ensure your renter’s insurance is tailored to cover travel and belongings. You do NOT want to end up stranded on the North Sea with all your belongings floating in the water, becoming now penguin property and nothing to fall back on. Of course, who wouldn’t love seeing a penguin with some Ray Bans on?!
So Ahoy, Skipper and happy cruising!