Cruise ships can be a potential terrorist targets, that’s why the United Nations implemented maritime security laws in order to protect on-board guests.  The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code was introduced in 2004 by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and United States also created the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA).   Through these security programs, there is a strict implementation of formal security plans , access control ,  screening measures and communications between ships and ports that also include  waterside security.  All passengers and their luggage are checked before the cruise and all the crew undergo a U.S. State Department background check.   Anyone who enters and leaves the ship must also pass through security screening.   Different programs and departments are working hand in hand to protect the passengers.

Although there are a lot of accidents and tragedies we have heard from cruise ships, it is still safe. It will not only depend on the security the crew and the ship is providing you, but you should also learn to protect yourself by being cautious and ready at all times.

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• First, be aware that after boarding and settling in you will most likely be required to produce a credit card or cash deposit against expenses at the beginning of your cruise. (This is also referred to as your shipboard account).

• Keep up with all receipts for purchases charged to your room while on board.

You absolutely do not want to get your bill and find any unexpected surprise for extra expenses or other things that you thought were included in you cruise but weren’t. One surefire way to avoid this issue is to request a print out from the ships purser. And if while you’re in the casino and happen to need additional cash you can obtain a cash advance against your account from the casino cashier.

• One thing no matter how long or short your cruise, no matter your cruise destination, you should always remember to Never, Ever flash your money! Not even gambling inside the ships casino. And, if by chance Lady Luck smiles on you and you should win, remember that someone was probably watching, so don’t draw needless and unnecessary attention to yourself.

• Another thing is that if you were silly enough to bring along a lot of cash and your expensive jewelry, please keep them locked in the ships safe along with your travel passports and cruise tickets. Don’t prompt anyone to take your things. Never leave them out in the open when you are not in the room.

Your everyday items can be locked in the safe in your cabin, but crew members do know how to open them. Cruise ship crew members and other employees are there to make your trip as pleasant and fun-filled as possible and many go to great lengths to do just that.

But one must also remember that even though they are hard working, honest and conscientious about their jobs they sometimes picture you as “rich” with lots of cash on hand or at least available to throw around. Particularly if you are afflicted with the “big shot” syndrome of being a loud mouth braggart who likes to flash cash.

• One last safety tip to consider while cruising is overindulgence. Hey, who doesn’t like a occasional cocktail or two? And that’s fine, but overindulgence on vacation to the point of stupidity and negligence can be a little dangerous especially on board a ship.

So, if you know that you tend to over indulge on dry land, chances are you won’t have clear judgment much less good judgment at sea, so be smart and always have a designated member of your travel party to keep a clear head.

Listen, it’s okay to enjoy yourself but please try not to drink too much, and if you have been drinking never take a stroll alone and never visit the crews quarters.

If you follow these common sense cruise ship safety tips and combine them with good judgment, you’re sure to enjoy your cruise vacation.

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