Most people don’t experience any problems when they go on a cruise, but problems can – and do – occur. Fortunately, most problems are minor, but it is important to know how to resolve them as soon as you can and in the best way possible. If you are still new to cruising, here are some tips for what you can do in various situations.
You Become Ill or Injured
Because you will be sharing the cruise with so many other people, the risk of becoming ill is perhaps one of the most common worries you will have. You may even have read about norovirus outbreaks on cruises, like this one. If you do find yourself feeling ill, go and see the on-board doctor. They are likely to order you to stay in your cabin until you feel better, and this is the best place for you.
It can be a bit miserable, but you can always order room service and relax in your bed watching TV. Cruises are great for relaxing even if you are ill, so try to enjoy your holiday if you can.
If you have seasickness, this is often simpler to remedy. The doctor may give you some medicine, or you may have even brought your own. You can also eat ginger and green apples to help, and you may want to wear a pressure band. The best place to stay is in a cabin low down and in the center of the ship where the movement is less.
If you become injured, go and see the doctor. Minor injuries can be dealt with on board, but for a more serious injury, you may need to go to hospital on land. You may even need to be air lifted, which is one of the many reasons to have insurance.
Your Luggage Does Not Arrive
It is unlikely that your luggage won’t arrive, but it does happen. If your luggage does not turn up in your cabin after a few hours, go to the purser’s desk and they will try and track it down for you. If a porter took your bag before boarding, it is likely to be on the ship and it may just have been sent to the wrong cabin.
If your bag doesn’t show up at the airport, arrange at the information desk for it to be sent on to one of your future ports.
To avoid more serious problems, make sure you keep your essential items like medicines with you, and pack some clothes and swim gear in your small day bag to keep with you.
The Ship Changes Itinerary
Itinerary changes can happen, and this will be covered in the contract of the cruise line. It could be for various reasons, including the weather or political reasons. You should get a refund for the port tax and for any excursions you booked through the cruise line, but unfortunately there is not a lot more you can do about this.
You Have Noisy Neighbors
Soundproofing is not typically good on cruises, and noisy neighbors can sometimes be a problem. If it is really bothering you, consider simply asking them to lower the volume. If it gets out of hand, you could tell reception or even request a different cabin.
You Are a Victim of Crime
This could happen on land or on the ship. If it occurs on land, report the crime to local police. This may be necessary to claim any lost items on your insurance policy. If you lose your passport, contact the local embassy for a replacement. However, if you might miss your ship, wait until the next port rather than getting stranded. You could also call your travel insurance provider for advice.
If you are the victim on crime on board the ship, report it to the staff immediately. They can then investigate and they may ask you to complete a formal report.
Deal with Problems Calmly, and Don’t Worry Too Much
Problems can occur on any type of holiday, including cruises. Before you start worrying, remember that you are very unlikely to experience a problem at all. Just prepare yourself in advance so that you know what to do in different situations, and then sit back, relax and enjoy your holiday.
Michael Wilson is the Managing Director at Bolsover Cruise Club, a company his parents formed in the late 1960’s. Originally known as Bolsover Travel, Michael continues to work passionate in the business, taking interest in all aspects. Outside of work, Michael enjoys holidays with his family, gardening and watching rugby.
