Cruise Ship Security Tips: How to Stay Safe on Your Cruise Vacation | By Jordan Frankel

Cruise ship vacations feel like stepping into a floating resort, offering fun events, delicious food, and breathtaking views of the open sea. However, as relaxing as these getaways can be, they’re not without risks. Just like any vacation destination, cruise ships can be hotspots for crime, including theft and burglary. By following these cruise ship security tips, you can better protect yourself, your belongings, and your family while ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey.

Cruise Ship Security Tips for Your Luggage

Most passenger complaints on cruise ships involve lost, stolen, or damaged luggage. Protecting your belongings starts before you even board the ship. Follow these cruise ship security tips to minimize risk:

• Make an Inventory: List everything you pack in your luggage, and take photos of valuable items. This will help if you need to file a claim.
• Carry Valuables with You: Important items like electronics, jewelry, medication, and travel documents should be kept in a carry-on bag that stays with you at all times.
• Make Copies of Documents: Photocopy your passport, ID, and credit cards. Keep one copy with you and leave another with a trusted friend or family member at home.
• Avoid Expensive Luggage: Choose sturdy but unassuming bags. Flashy or high-end luggage can attract thieves who assume the contents are valuable.
• Monitor Your Bags: Never let your luggage out of your sight until you’ve checked it in with cruise staff. Confirm that the correct ID tags are securely attached to your bags before handing them over.

Cabin Security: Keeping Your Private Space Safe

Your cruise ship cabin may feel like a private haven, but it’s important to take precautions to ensure its security. Housekeeping staff may accidentally leave doors ajar, and some employees may even misuse their access privileges. Use these cruise ship security tips to keep your belongings and yourself safe:

• Lock Your Door: Always use all available locks on your cabin door when inside. Deadbolts and security latches provide extra layers of protection.
• Verify Visitors: If someone unexpected knocks on your door claiming to be staff, verify their identity with the main desk before opening the door. Teach children to follow this rule, too.
• Check Your Room: Each time you return to your cabin, inspect the bathroom, closets, and other spaces where someone could hide. Keep the door open while you check.
• Secure Valuables: Never leave valuables like cash, jewelry, or passports out in the open. Use the cabin safe if provided, or ask the cruise ship staff to store them in the ship’s central safe. Hiding items in your room isn’t effective—thieves know the usual hiding spots.

Cruise Ship Safety Tips for Families

Traveling with family adds an extra layer of responsibility, especially when young children are involved. Preparing a family safety plan and discussing potential risks are crucial steps for keeping everyone safe. Here are some cruise ship safety tips to protect your loved ones:

• Set Clear Rules: Teach children about potential dangers, such as pickpockets or scams, without frightening them. Make sure they understand not to go anywhere with strangers.
• Establish Check-Ins: If children are allowed to explore certain areas of the ship on their own, set up regular check-in times and curfews.
• Teach Stranger Danger: Emphasize that children should avoid wandering off with cruise ship staff, other passengers, or their children, even if they seem friendly.
• Supervise Activities: Whenever possible, supervise your children’s activities, especially near pools, play areas, or elevators. Never leave young children unattended.

Beware of Knock-and-Enter Scams

Some criminals gain access to passenger cabins by posing as staff members. Protect yourself and your family by being cautious when answering the door:

• Use the Peephole: Always check who’s at the door before opening it.
• Verify Staff Claims: If someone claims to be delivering an item or performing maintenance, call the main desk to confirm their identity.
• Don’t Rely on Chains or Bars: Partial door openings secured by chains or bars are not reliable. A determined intruder can easily break through them.

Parking and Valet Considerations

For cruise ships with port parking, security begins before you even board. Follow these cruise ship security tips for parking and valet services:

• Choose Valet Parking: If available, valet services eliminate the need to navigate potentially unsafe parking lots alone.
• Park Strategically: In self-parking situations, choose well-lit areas close to the entrance.
• Stay Alert: Avoid distractions like rummaging through bags while walking to your vehicle. If you feel unsafe, ask for an escort from security.

Protecting Yourself in Open Waters

Cruise ships often sail through international waters, where U.S. laws may not apply. Understanding the legal nuances of these jurisdictions can help you prepare for any incidents:

• Know the Laws: Crimes committed in international waters fall under International Maritime Law (IML), which may handle cases differently from U.S. authorities.
• Report All Incidents: If a crime occurs, report it to the ship’s security team and local authorities at the nearest port.
• Understand FBI Involvement: The FBI investigates major crimes involving U.S. citizens in international waters but typically doesn’t handle minor offenses like theft.

Additional Cruise Ship Security Tips

Here are a few more ways to ensure your safety and security while onboard:

• Use Occupancy Deterrents: Leave the “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door and keep a light or TV on to make it seem like someone is in the room.
• Stay Informed: Research your cruise line’s safety policies, lost luggage procedures, and crime response protocols before booking your trip.
• Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers lost or stolen items to minimize financial loss if an incident occurs.

Cruise Ship Safety: Your Responsibility

Cruise ships offer countless opportunities for fun and relaxation, but your safety ultimately depends on your vigilance. By implementing these cruise ship security tips, you can significantly reduce risks and focus on enjoying your vacation.

Remember, preparation and awareness are your best defenses. From securing your luggage to verifying visitors at your cabin door, every precaution you take contributes to a safer, more enjoyable trip for you and your loved ones.

Click here for more street-smart security tips by home security expert Jordan Frankel.