Is Cruising Still Safe After the Recent Outbreaks Onboard?

Is Cruising Still Safe After the Recent Outbreaks Onboard?

Cruising is a fun way to travel, but recent outbreaks of illness have made some people nervous, with many wondering if it is still safe. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have already been six outbreaks of gastrointestinal illnesses on cruise ships in 2025.

Three of these were caused by norovirus, a very contagious virus that leads to vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain. One of the latest outbreaks happened on Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas, where nearly 100 passengers got sick.

Image: A photo of a person wearing glasses with his eyes closed, lying in a hospital bed.

Why and How Illnesses Spread on Cruise Ships

Here are some common reasons why illnesses spread on cruise ships:

• Close contact - Passengers and crew interact in tight spaces, making it easy for germs to pass from person to person.
• Shared spaces - Buffets, pools, gyms, and elevators are used by hundreds of people each day.
• Port stops - Cruise ships visit different places, increasing the risk of exposure to new illnesses.
• Food and water - Contaminated food or water can spread infections like norovirus.

What Cruise Lines Are Doing to Keep Passengers Safe

Cruise companies know that safety is important, so they have taken several steps to prevent outbreaks. They have put stricter cleaning policies in place to keep ships as germ-free as possible. High-touch surfaces like handrails, elevator buttons, and dining areas are cleaned multiple times a day, while cabins are also sanitised thoroughly between cruises to make sure each new group of passengers arrives to a clean and safe environment.

Many modern cruise ships have improved air filtration systems. These advanced systems help reduce the spread of airborne germs by constantly cycling fresh air into enclosed spaces. Better ventilation means cleaner air for passengers and crew, lowering the chances of viruses spreading through the ship.

To prevent sick passengers from boarding, many cruise lines have introduced health screenings before departure. This may include temperature checks, health questionnaires, and, in some cases, rapid tests for contagious illnesses. If a passenger shows signs of illness, they may not be allowed to board to help keep other travellers safe.

Cruise ships are also improving their medical facilities and staff training. Many ships now have better-equipped medical centers with the ability to test for viruses and provide treatment if necessary. Medical teams onboard are trained to handle outbreaks quickly and can isolate sick passengers to stop the illness from spreading.

Image: A photo of a woman in a white shirt sitting on a bed, with her arms wrapped around herself, tightly holding her stomach as she leans slightly forward, seemingly in pain or discomfort.

How to Stay Safe on a Cruise

If you love cruising, here are some simple ways to protect yourself from getting sick:

• Wash your hands often - Use soap and water, especially before eating or after using the restroom.
• Use hand sanitiser - If soap is not available, use hand sanitiser.
• Be careful with food and drinks - Avoid food that looks undercooked or has been sitting out for a long time.
• Avoid touching your face - This helps stop germs from getting into your mouth or nose.
• Report any illness quickly - If you feel sick, tell the medical staff right away.
• Stay hydrated and get rest - This helps maintain a strong immune system, which is crucial for your body to fight off infections.

Conclusion 

Cruising is still a great way to travel, but it is important to be aware of the risks. With better safety measures and good hygiene, the chances of getting sick can be reduced, so don’t let fear stop you. Just make sure to take precautions to stay safe. If you take the right steps, you are sure to enjoy a fun and safe vacation at sea.