Following the extremely unfortunate mishap in the year 2012 where the cruise liner Costa Concordia faced a disaster killing around 32 on-board passengers and crewmembers, shipping industry around the world has implemented numerous additions to the safety laws of ships. A Global Cruise Industry Operational Safety Review was eventually formed bringing together eminent shipping officials who have since then reviewed, surveyed, inspected and reviewed the older laws and the overall functioning of the ships.
Shipping laws now focus even more on the presence of more life-jackets, lifeboats, a disciplined conducting of safety drills and close inspection of the ship’s engines. The ship’s entry and exit points, docking at ports, navigating through heavy traffic or during unfavourable weather conditions are areas that should not be relegated to a last minute practice drill. Crew members have to be alert and must be conditioned to face untoward challenges with ease ensuring a sense of safety all around.
It is true that the safety of on board passengers remain the top most priority on cruise liners however it is still better to be safe than feel sorry later. Taking a few initial precautions even before indulging in the luxuries that a massive liner has in store for you and your loved ones will go a long way in ensuring a smooth experience.
Avoid Falling ill
Vacationing on board a cruise liner is for most a once in a lifetime experience. Let’s face it, cruising can be extremely expensive and to not enjoy the fruits of your labour due to you not taking care of yourself is a huge disappointment. Sickness can also lead you to not respond effectively to minor safety measures and these can lead to severe consequences. Even on board the ship, use disinfectants before and after meals and take medications (if needed) as prescribed by your physician. Being on a holiday does not mean that you forego your health completely.
Practice Shipping Etiquettes With The Children
Parents often feel that the close quarters of the ship and the extreme safety measures practised by the shipping crew would prevent their kids from falling victim to many an unforeseen incident. Children should be made to attend the safety drill session along with the adults and this must be treated with much seriousness. Instructing them to not wander unsupervised into restricted areas of the ship, to go near the rails or ride elevators on their own are some of the measures that adults must take along with equipping them with the various safety measures.
Be Aware Of Your Immediate Surroundings
As important as safety drills are at the beginning of your journey, it will not come into effect if you are unaware of what you are in the midst of. A cruise liner spans a huge area and it is impossible to get a clear idea of its magnitude unless you plan to tour it yourself, preferably with a seasoned guide. These trips not only allow you to acquaint yourself with the fineries and exciting activity centres that the ship has on offer but also helps you get familiarised with the location of fire extinguishers, lifeboats, life jackets and also emergency evacuation points.
Research, Research and Research Some More
Even before making the final bookings it is essential to conduct a thorough research about the cruise liner that you are about to board. Research reveals a lot of unknown facts and data of the liners that are not always displayed on official websites or the ship’s manuals. Know the safety regulations that are prevalent within the ships and whether they are abiding by the laws and regulations. An in-depth survey also brings to light former mishaps that the ship has been subjected to and also user reviews that talk of the experiences on the ship further influencing your decision to spend your holidays on that particular liner.
Cruise ship brokers keep an updated inventory of all the ferries and liners and even highlight the safety measures on each ship for interested investors.
Make the most of your luxurious holiday taking adequate precautions and turn your onboard experiences into memories that last a lifetime.
