Similar to staying in a hotel, when traveling aboard a ship you should not give into that fake sense of security.   Although the biggest threat onboard is an act of terrorism and the biggest onboard health concern is the norovirus, there are steps you should take towards taking care of your personal safety, but first let’s talk about the norovirus.

          The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 23 million Americans contract the norovirus each year.  Of the eight million people who cruise every year, 2,200 cases of norovirus are reported, making your chances of getting ill one in 3,600, which is less than one percent.  To protect yourself from the norovirus you should practice good hygiene and wash your hands with soap and warm water after you use the bathroom, before you eat, and upon your return to the ship. 

          Now, let’s talk about terrorism.  Since September 11^th all airport security has changed and cruise ships are no different.  Measures outlined by the U.S. Coast Guard include, requiring all commercial vessels to give 96 hours notice before entering U.S. ports, previously it was a 24 hour notice.  Every U.S. port now maintains and enforces a minimum 300 foot “no float zone.”  In addition, cruise ships get an armed U.S. Coast Guard escort in and out of port and the safety list goes on.

          Okay, so now let’s talk personal security.  Here’s where common sense goes a long way.  Let’s start with your luggage.  Just like traveling by airplane, you should use sturdy plain looking luggage that does not attract attention.  If you have something of great value, like a laptop or expensive piece of jewelry, keep it with you in your handbag.  Write your name and phone number on the luggage name tag, but do not write your home address.

          Once you get to your cabin, you should put your belongings in a safe place and jewelry should be kept in the cabin safe.  When walking onboard you should be aware of your surroundings at all times, even if you are in a public area.  Avoid being alone at night in deserted areas and don’t feel like you have to open your cabin door to an unexpected visitor.  Remember, a room invasion can happen anywhere.   If you are traveling with family or friends, make sure that someone always knows where you are and check in with children on a regular basis.

          If something were to be stolen from you, then ask ship security to take a look at their surveillance cameras.  On most ships there is security staff that visually monitors almost every area of the ship.  There are cameras in the embarkation areas, corridors, public rooms, and entry points to the "out of bounds" areas.

          Finally, if you are with underage children it’s a good idea to set curfews just as you would at home.   Advise your children not to hang out with crewmembers in areas that are not public.  Ship nightclubs, casinos, even swimming pools are places to be weary of when alone.  A cruise line can be a very safe vacation and lots of fun, just don’t forget to be on guard because crime can happen anywhere, even at sea.