Cruise Etiquette: What not to do
Can You Get Kicked Off a Cruise for Bad Behavior?
Absolutely! While cruising is about relaxation and fun, certain behaviors can quickly turn your dream vacation into a nightmare.
To help you avoid any unpleasant surprises, let’s dive into the key things that can get you kicked off a cruise ship. By understanding these rules, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone onboard.
Not having Proper Identification or Documents
Not having the correct paperwork can lead to serious consequences, including being denied boarding and potentially missing your entire cruise.
Here are some common reasons why you might be denied boarding due to insufficient identification:
- Expired passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your cruise’s end date.
- Missing visa: Some countries require visas for entry. If you don’t have the necessary visa, you may be denied boarding.
- Incorrect documentation: Make sure you have the correct type of identification document required for your cruise. This typically includes a valid passport.
- Security concerns: If there are any security concerns related to your identification, you may be denied boarding.
It’s essential to double-check your identification documents well in advance of your cruise to avoid any potential issues. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your cruise line for assistance. Generally, travel insurance will not cover the cost of being kicked off a cruise due to your misconduct. Find out more about Trip insurance in this post: [Travel insurance for Cruisers ]
Possessing illegal substances will get you kicked off your cruise
Cruise ships adhere to strict international laws. Bringing any kind of illegal substance aboard, including drugs, is a big no-no. Most cruise lines have a zero-tolerance policy for drugs.
Remember: Even if a substance is legal where you live, it’s still illegal on a cruise ship, which follows International Laws.
The Consequences: Getting caught with drugs can result in serious trouble. You could be arrested, fined heavily, and even handed over to local authorities at the next port. This applies to all forms of drugs, including marijuana (cigarettes, vapes, creams, gummies, edibles, and more).
Bottom line: It’s not worth the risk.
Don’t Get Too Tipsy
Enjoying a drink or two is part of the cruise experience, but excessive drunkenness can quickly turn into a problem. Cruise lines keep a close eye on alcohol consumption. Your drink package might limit you to 15 drinks, but you could be cut off sooner if you’re getting out of hand.
Remember: Getting too drunk can lead to accidents, being disruptive, and even getting into fights. All of these are serious offenses that could result in you being kicked off the ship.
Getting drunk on port days, you might find yourself missing the ship. Get more information on Port Days in our post: [ All you need to know about Port Days ]
Underage Drinking will get you kicked off the cruise
Underage drinking is a serious offense and can lead to severe consequences, including being kicked off the cruise.
Cruise lines have strict policies regarding alcohol consumption, and providing alcohol to minors is strictly prohibited. If you are caught underage drinking or providing alcohol to minors, you may face the following consequences:
- Denial of boarding: You may be denied boarding the ship if you are found to be underage.
- Removal from the ship: If you are caught drinking underage or providing alcohol to minors while on the cruise, you may be immediately removed from the ship.
- Legal consequences: Underage drinking and providing alcohol to minors are illegal acts. You may face fines, legal action, or even arrest.
To avoid these consequences, it is important to adhere to the cruise line’s alcohol policies. If you are underage, do not attempt to consume alcohol or obtain it from others. If you are of legal age, do not provide alcohol to minors.
Messing with Safety Equipment
Safety equipment on a cruise ship is crucial for everyone’s well-being. Tampering with life jackets, lifeboats, or fire extinguishers is a serious offense.
Why it’s dangerous: Messing with safety gear can put lives at risk. It’s also illegal and can lead to severe consequences, like being kicked off the ship and facing legal charges.
Bottom line: Always treat safety equipment with respect and leave it alone unless there’s an actual emergency.
Ignoring Crew Instructions
Crew members are there to keep you safe and make your cruise enjoyable. It’s important to listen to their instructions, especially during emergencies.
Listen to the crew: Failing to follow crew directions can be dangerous and could even get you kicked off the ship. So, pay attention and do as you’re told.
Being in Restricted Areas will get you kicked off cruise
Some areas on a cruise ship are off-limits to passengers. These include places like crew-only areas, the captain’s bridge, and the engine room.
Why these areas are off-limits: These restrictions are there for safety and security reasons. Trespassing can cause accidents and security breaches.
So, keep out: It’s important to respect these boundaries and stay in designated areas.
Smoking in off limit areas
Cruise ships have specific smoking areas. Smoking outside these areas, especially indoors, is a big no-no.
Why it’s dangerous: Smoking in non-smoking areas can cause fires, putting everyone on the ship at risk.
The consequences: If you’re caught smoking where you shouldn’t, you could be fined $500 per violation and even kicked off the ship at the next port.
Any violation of this policy will result in a $500 charge, per violation, posted on the guest’s Sail & Sign® account and may also result in the disembarkation of all guests in the stateroom. [Carnival Cruise Tabacco and Marijuana Policy]
Bringing prohibitted items
Cruise lines have strict rules about what you can and can’t bring on board. Some items are prohibited for safety reasons, while others can interfere with the ship’s operations.
Prohibited items include:
- Weapons (like firearms, knives, and pepper spray)
- Dangerous materials (like explosives, gasoline, and aerosols)
- Electrical devices (like extension cords and coffee makers)
- Drones
- Illegal drugs
- Pets (except service animals)
- Hard liquor (except one bottle of wine or champagne per person on embarkation day)
- Glass or plastic bottled drinks (except small amounts in cans or cartons)
Why these items are restricted: These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and security of everyone onboard. Bringing prohibited items can result in them being confiscated and you could even be kicked off the ship.
Stealing and/or vandalizing
Theft and vandalism can ruin the experience of everyone on the ship. Cruise lines take these offenses very seriously.
The consequences: If you’re caught stealing or vandalizing, you could face serious legal consequences, including fines and arrest. You’ll also be immediately kicked off the ship.
May I say please that if you are going to take your table number as a sodding souvenir I suggest you don’t leave it on your Carnival Vista cabin dresser so the state room attendant sees it.
Oh FFS John Heald, Facebook page
Remember: Respect the property of others and the ship itself. It’s not worth the trouble. This should go without saying, but stealing property owned by other cruisers or by the cruise ship, is going to get you kicked off of the cruise. Also, the destruction of property is another great way to end your cruise early. For those with sticky fingers or whose ‘go to’ reaction is to throw a chair or punch a wall, that behavior won’t be tolerated onboard a cruise ship.
Find out more about the Main Dining Room in this post: [ 9+ Easy Dining Room Tips Every Cruiser Should Know ]
Poor Behavior can get you kicked off your cruise of banned
Cruise ships strive to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere. Engaging in inappropriate public behavior can disrupt this environment and lead to complaints and disciplinary action.
Examples of inappropriate behavior include:
- Public indecency: This includes any actions that are considered indecent or offensive in public, such as exposing oneself or engaging in inappropriate physical contact.
- Offensive gestures: Avoid making gestures that are considered offensive, rude, or threatening.
- Inappropriate clothing: While there is no strict dress code on most cruise ships, it’s important to avoid wearing clothing that is excessively revealing, vulgar, or offensive.
Remember, your behavior reflects on you and can impact the experience of others. Be mindful of your actions and avoid engaging in any behavior that could be considered inappropriate.
Being loud or disruptive
Loud and disruptive behavior can significantly impact other passengers’ enjoyment of their cruise. Even seemingly minor actions, such as talking loudly in the hallways or letting doors slam, can be considered disruptive.
Here are some examples of disruptive behavior that could result in being kicked off the cruise:
- Starting fights: Physical altercations or verbal disputes with other passengers are strictly prohibited.
- Causing disturbances: Loud noises, excessive shouting, or playing loud music can be considered disruptive.
- Disrespectful behavior: Rude or offensive language, harassment, or any behavior that makes others feel uncomfortable can be grounds for eviction.
Remember, a cruise is a shared experience. It’s important to be considerate of others and avoid behavior that may disturb or annoy them. By keeping the noise level down and being respectful, you can help create a pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone onboard.
Dressing inappropriately
Cruise ships have dress codes for certain areas, like dining rooms and nightclubs. Following these codes helps maintain a pleasant atmosphere for everyone.
Don’t be a fashion faux pas: If you don’t dress appropriately, you might not be allowed into certain venues. In extreme cases, you could even be kicked off the ship.
So, check the dress code: Before you head out, take a look at the dress code for the places you want to visit.
Violence: A Serious Offense
Cruise lines take a hard stance against violence. Any kind of physical altercation, from fights to assault, is strictly prohibited. If you’re caught engaging in violent behavior, you’ll be kicked off the ship immediately.
Remember: There’s absolutely no excuse for violence. It’s not only harmful but can also ruin your vacation and have serious legal consequences.
Using vulgar language
Cruise lines expect everyone to communicate respectfully. Using offensive language can make things unpleasant for everyone else.
Be mindful: If you use offensive language, you could face complaints from other passengers. In serious cases, you might be kicked off the ship.
So, keep it clean: Choose your words carefully and avoid using offensive language.
Jumping Ship
Jumping off a cruise ship is extremely dangerous and illegal. It can seriously injure or even kill you, and it can disrupt the ship’s operations.
Climbing on railings is also a bad idea: It’s dangerous and could get you kicked off the ship.
The consequences: Jumping overboard is a major offense. You could face serious legal consequences and be immediately kicked off the ship.
So, stay put: Your safety and the safety of others depend on it.
Have a Great Cruise: Follow the Rules
Adhering to the rules on a cruise ship is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. By understanding and following these guidelines, you can help create a positive atmosphere for yourself and others.
Remember: The crew is there to help, so be respectful and cooperate. By doing so, you’ll have a fantastic vacation without any unwanted surprises.
So, have fun and cruise responsibly!
Cruise Etiquette FAQs
What should I avoid doing on a cruise?
Avoid disruptive behavior, ignoring safety protocols, and bringing illegal substances onboard.
Can I be kicked off a cruise for being too loud?
Yes, excessively loud or disruptive behavior can result in being asked to leave the ship.
What happens if I miss the muster drill?
Missing the muster drill is a serious offense and can lead to disembarkation for safety reasons.
Are there dress codes I need to follow?
Yes, most cruises have specific dress codes for different areas and events. Failure to comply can result in restricted access.
What are the consequences of bringing drugs onboard?
Bringing illegal drugs onboard will lead to immediate expulsion from the cruise and potential legal action.
Can I be arrested on a cruise ship?
Yes, serious offenses such as possession of illegal substances or violent behavior can lead to arrest and legal action by local authorities at the next port.
Are there security personnel on the cruise ship?
Yes, cruise ships have security teams to ensure the safety and security of all passengers and crew.
How can I avoid getting into trouble on a cruise?
Familiarize yourself with the cruise line’s rules and guidelines, respect crew instructions, and be considerate of other passengers.
What should I do if I witness someone breaking the rules on a cruise?
Report any rule violations to a crew member or security personnel immediately to ensure everyone’s. Call the ships’ emergency number.
What to Do If You See Someone Jump Off a Ship?
While it’s a rare occurrence, it’s important to know what to do in case of an emergency. If you witness someone jumping overboard, follow these steps:
- Immediately alert the ship’s crew: Notify a crew member or go to the nearest guest services desk as quickly as possible. Provide as much detail as you can about the person’s location and appearance.
- Point out the person: If possible, continue to point out the person in the water until help arrives.
- Stay calm and assist others: Help other passengers stay calm and avoid creating a panic.
The ship’s crew is trained to handle such emergencies and will initiate rescue procedures immediately.
Remember: Safety is a top priority on cruise ships. Always prioritize your own safety and follow the instructions of the ship’s crew.
Can I Be Denied Boarding Without Proper Documentation?
Can I be denied boarding if I don’t have the proper documentation or identification?
You can be denied boarding if you don’t have the necessary documentation or identification. This is a common reason for passengers to be denied embarkation.
Here are some specific scenarios where you might be denied boarding:
Invalid passport: If your passport is expired or doesn’t meet the required validity period, you may be denied boarding.
Missing visa: If you’re traveling to a country that requires a visa and you don’t have one, you’ll likely be denied boarding.
Incorrect documentation: If you have the wrong type of documentation or if your documentation is incomplete, you may be denied boarding.
Security concerns: If there are security concerns related to your documentation or your travel history, you may be denied boarding.