Cruise Ship Traveller

Cruise Ship Secret Codes (inc Emergency & Naughty Ones too)

We all know the cruise ship crew uses secret code words onboard to communicate with each other without raising concerns amongst the relaxing passengers.

Perhaps you have heard them yourself over the tannoys.

I, too have wondered what some of the codes mean, so I’ve researched them all.

Plus, as well as the codes the crew use, did you know some cheeky codes are used amongst the guests?  Oh yes! Well, we’ll cover those too!

Cruise Ship Secret Codes

Cruise Ship Emergency Codes

Some cruise ships have their own specific codes unique to the cruise line, although they are typically a variation on the most used universal version of the code.

A code 30-30 will be the crew contacting maintenance to clear up a mess that could be hazardous to passing guests, for example, if someone slips on a wet floor.

Code Adam is used if there is a missing child onboard .   

This code originates from the abduction (and murder) of a child in the early 1980s, Adam Walsh, which also resulted in a Code Adam missing child safety program.

If you hear a code alpha on a cruise ship, there is a medical emergency onboard .

Many cruise lines have their own secret code for this, including the following.

Royal Caribbean has the code “Alpha, Alpha, Alpha.” 

Oceania Cruises are known to use “ Code Mike ” instead of Alpha to signify a medical emergency.

Celebrity Cruises use “Star Code, Star Code, Star Code”.

Medical Emergency Button

A code blue is usually used to signify some sort of medical emergency onboard the ship.

This would indicate to staff to take the required actions for the safety and well-being of the person, guest, or crew member as calmly and discreetly as possible.

Bravo, Bravo, Bravo 

The code Bravo, Bravo Bravo is a subtle way for the crew to alert other crew members that there is a fire onboard or a similar serious emergency.

Fire Extinguishers

Charlie, Charlie, Charlie

The code “Charlie, Charlie, Charlie” is used if there is a security threat onboard the ship.  It is known to be used on Royal Caribbean ships.  

It can also signal forthcoming helicopter winch operations aboard c-bed accommodation ships.

Delta, Delta, Delta

The crew uses the code “Delta, Delta, Delta” to signal to each other there has been or there is the possibility of a biohazard .

This could mean there has been some form of accident or event causing pollution from the ship.

Delta, Delta, Delta can also be used to secretly communicate the ship’s hull has suffered damage.

In some instances “ Code Papa ” is known to have been used to signify the same thing, an oil spillage or pollution-related incident.

A code Echo or “ Echo, Echo, Echo ” communicates that the ship is starting to drift .  This is often due to strong winds.  It’s important because it could indicate the ship is about to collide with the port or possibly another ship, accident no one wants to happen.

It can also act as a code to make the crew operate the gangway or the ship’s navigation to be ready to take action and maneuver the ship.

A code Kilo or specifically “ Kilo, Kilo, Kilo ” on Royal Caribbean ships signifies to crew to get to assigned emergency posts . 

These will have been pre-designated in previous crew training and will alert the crew and get them in a position to take whatever actions may be deemed necessary from there.

The code Mr Mob stands for “ Man Overboard .”  Someone has fallen overboard.

This is a very serious incident, and the ship may also sound its horn three times which would give a wider indication that there was an onboard emergency to other nearby ships as well.

Man Overboard Notice and Alarm

If you hear the crew calling the code “Oscar” or specifically “Oscar, Oscar, Oscar” on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruise ships it means there is a man overboard .

Purell, Purell, Purell   

It is a code used when an urgent clean-up is required, for example, if someone has vomited in a public area.

Another code meaning the same thing is “ PVI, ” which stands for “Public Vomiting Incident”.

Or sometimes, simply “ Code V ” is used.

Operation Bright Star

The code Operation Bright star will only be used by medical staff who are using the code to call other medical team members to assist with a specific medical incident such as a stroke or heart attack .

Disney Cruise Line are known to use code bright star to signal a serious stroke heart related or medical emergency onboard.

  • Operation Rising Star

Is code on some ships to communicate there has been a death on the ship .  

If a passenger dies onboard a ship, their body will be held in the ship’s morgue .

Sometimes the code “ Bright Star ” or “ Fallen star ” is used to signify someone has died.

cruise ship morgues

A code red indicated an outbreak of illness on board the ship.   This could be an instance of norovirus onboard the ship.

When there is a code red, sick passengers will be confined to their rooms until their illness has been deemed to pass.

The ship may undertake extra deep cleaning to contain the spread as much as possible.

Code Red Parties

The code “Red Parties, Red Parties, Red Parties” is reportedly used by Disney Cruise lines to indicate a fire onboard.

On other ships, it can mean fire at sea.

Code Sierra

A code Sierra indicated a specific type of medical emergency, one that requires a stretcher .

If it is a serious medical emergency, you may well hear the other code words to signify that as well.

Code Yellow

A code yellow is sometimes used to indicate an illness that isn’t so serious .  

Zulu Zulu Zulu

Code Zulu Zulu Zulu is a warning to crew members there is a fight incident onboard.  

Pool Emergency Codes

Code baby ruth.

I don’t know if Code Baby Ruth is 100% genuinely used, but if it is, it is to raise awareness among staff that there is a “poo” in the pool.

It might just be a myth that stems from this movie scene from Caddyshack.

Here’s a funny clip:

There are also reports that a “Code Winnie” is a secret code for a poo in the pool on Disney Cruise Lines.  Again this might just be a joke.

Royal Caribbean Emergency Codes

Codes specifically used by Royal Caribbean include:

  • Alpha, Alpha, Alpha – Medical Emergency
  • Charlie, Charlie, Charlie – Security threat
  • Echo, Echo, Echo – ship is drifting
  • Kilo, Kilo, Kilo – crew to report to emergency posts
  • Oscar, Oscar, Oscar – man overboard.

As you can see, they make a point of repeating the secret code word three times which makes them different from most other cruise lines.

Carnival Cruise Emergency Codes

As well as using the main typical emergency codes outlined, Carnival has some of its own for specific situations:

  • Alpha Team, Alpha Team, Alpha Team – fire onboard
  • Operation Brightstar – for medical emergencies related to stroke or heart attack, cardiac arrest

Norwegian Cruise Line Emergency Codes

NCL also has a couple of its own secret codes, including:

  • Delta – there’s been damage to the ship
  • Papa – there’s been an environmental incident

Why do Cruise Ships Use Secret Codes?

The crew of a cruise ship use secret codes to communicate so as not to cause unnecessary anxiety or even panic among guests.

They enable the crew to discreetly start taking action.  

For example, if the crew was calling “man overboard,” you can be sure alerted passengers would rush to take a look, and perhaps the crowd would hinder and slow down any emergency rescue attempts.

A much-publicized incident without codes might also create panic and urgency for some people, who might immediately start worrying and looking for their loved ones.

The crew will be able to act alot more efficiently and discreetly by using these secret codes.

First aid kit for medical emergency

What is the Code for Fire on a Cruise Ship?

Fire is the biggest threat to a cruise ship and one no cruise captain ever wants to hear or have to alert the crew about.  

Most cruise lines use “Bravo, Bravo, Bravo” to indicate a fire onboard. 

Carnival cruise use “ Alpha Team, Alpha Team, Alpha Team” as their secret code to alert the crew to fire.

Cunard uses the code “ Priority 1 ” to indicate a fire onboard.

Disney Cruise lines “Red Parties, Red Parties, Red Parties” as their secret code to indicate a fire onboard.

What Code is Used if Someone Has Died on a Cruise Ship?

Codes used when someone has died onboard vary by the cruise line.

If say, an old person has passed away, you might hear these code words: 

  • Fallen star

Secret Codes on Cruise Ship Doors

Did you know some symbols act as potential secret codes between passengers, and some could be deemed a bit “naughty?”

Upsidedown Pineapple : This is a secret code symbol used between swingers, both on land but also on cruise ship door decorations and sometimes other attire.

You can find out more here about the meaning of an upside-down pineapple on a cruise and other hidden meaning symbols and codes you might spot.

Pink Flamingoes are another lesser-known symbol among swingers on cruises , indicating they are into the lifestyle.

To Conclude

There are many codes you may hear on a cruise ship, but in reality, you will rarely hear most of them.  

Instead, you are possibly more likely to hear them used in dramatic scenes on Tv and possibly wonder exactly what they mean.

Are there any codes we missed?  

Please let us know in the comments so we can add them.

Related Posts

Can You Bring a Vape on a Cruise?

Can You Bring a Vape on a Cruise?  (2024)

Can You Take Curling Irons on a Cruise

Can You Bring Curling Irons On a Cruise Ship?

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

19 Secret Codes on Cruise Ships That You Need to Know

' src=

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Ever wondered what those strange—and sometimes downright funny—codes that a cruise ship captain uses to communicate with crew members mean? Maybe you’ve heard the crew saying weird things that didn’t make sense.

Well, we were pretty curious ourselves—plus, no one likes to be kept in the dark!

So, we decided to research the meanings of 19 secret codes on cruise ships, and we’re ready to share our discovery with you. Are you ready to clear up some confusion?

Note: This post looks at the official secret codes used by cruise lines. For a fun secret code passengers use, check out the meaning of an upside-down pineapple .

Table of Contents

First aid kit near the pool on a cruise ship

“Code Alpha” or “Alpha, Alpha, Alpha” is one of the most common secret codes you’ll hear the broadcast on a cruise ship.

You’ve probably already heard it in a movie or two!

Typically, using that call means that there’s a medical emergency on the ship. The Code Alpha lets crew members know that someone needs medical help without causing panic.

Usually, most cruise ship companies only use a single “Alpha.” Though some cruise lines like Royal Caribbean repeat “Alpha” three times.

Some other cruise companies have their own version of “Alpha,” and an example is Oceania Cruises. The cruise line uses “Code Mike” instead for a medical emergency.

On the other hand, Celebrity Cruises goes for “Star Code, Star Code, Star Code.”

This is another secret code that a cruise ship staff uses to discreetly communicate to each other that there’s some form of emergency going on that requires their action.

Unlike the previous code, a “Code Bravo” alerts crew members to a fire on the ship. Again, this subtle signal’s main purpose is to save passengers from freaking out while the professionals handle the situation from behind the scenes!

Security staff with the walkie-talkie from the back patrolling cruise ship Pacific Princess

It seems like cruise companies have a huge vocabulary to indicate different sorts of alarms and emergencies, and it’s understandable! Repeating “Charlie, Charlie, Charlie” is also one of those.

If you hear crew members calling out that secret code, it usually means that there’s a security threat onboard.

As a passenger, keep calm and wait patiently to see if there are announcements or instructions you’ll need to follow for your safety.

“Delta, Delta, Delta” is often used by crew members as a secret alert that there’s been an accident that caused damage to the ship. It may indicate physical damage to the ship’s hull or pollution.

Norwegian Cruise Line mostly uses “Code Delta” for pollution emergencies.

If you hear “Code Echo” or “Echo, Echo, Echo” on a cruise ship, it alerts the ship’s staff that the vessel is drifting, often because of high winds.

As soon as they hear this, the crew will take action to correct the ship’s direction, especially if there’s a risk of collision. Such action includes maneuvering the ship to safety to dodge an accident.

If you’ve been on a Royal Caribbean cruise, you might’ve heard the captain say, “Kilo, Kilo, Kilo,” followed by crew members will rush seemingly everywhere. What does that mean?

Whether it’s said once or three times, “Code Kilo” requests that all crew members head over to their emergency posts. Usually, this happens if there’s been an incident on the ship requiring the organized action of the entire personnel.

A life preserver on a cruise liner used when someone falls overboard

Most cruise ship companies, especially Royal Caribbean, use “Oscar” to communicate that a person has fallen overboard . Some cruise lines use the code “Mr. Mob” in this situation instead, which stands for “Man overboard.”

This is one of the more serious codes out there. A “code oscar” may be accompanied by sounding the horn three times. Doing this lets any nearby ships know that there’s someone in the water so that they’ll stay away.

Another code that might sound strange is “Code Sierra” because it gives no clue what’s happening. Well, now we know that it refers to a type of medical emergency that requires a stretcher.

Sometimes, it’ll go hand-in-hand with other codes that indicate a medical emergency. This secret code alerts the medical staff that a stretcher is required to treat the injured person.

Want to know what happens if two people get into a fight while on a cruise ship? That’s right; you’ll hear, “Zulu, Zulu, Zulu!”

Then, cruise ship security is dispatched to deal with whoever’s fighting. The security team is quick to break up fights, and may place the offending passengers in the cruise ship jail .

After a short period of time, everything will go back to being peaceful and laid-back as it should be on a cruise.

10. Charlie Alpha

A young woman in the cruise ship medical center getting her blood pressure checked by a cruise ship doctor

Can you hear a combination of two secret codes on a cruise ship? Well, it seems like you can, although it might be rare.

“Charlie Alpha” combines the meanings of those two individual codes. It refers to the existence of a security threat caused by a medical emergency.

Again, if you happen to hear it on your cruise vacation, the best course of action is to keep your composure and listen for any important instructions.

A cruise ship funnel emitting a lot of black smoke pollution

Despite how funny it sounds, hearing “Papa” on a cruise ship isn’t a good sign. It means that there’s been a form of pollution onboard.

More often than not, companies will use this secret code to alert their crew about an oil spill.

12. Code Blue

This is another code for a medical emergency on a cruise ship.

When the captain or a crew member says it, it’s like an announcement for other crew members to take the right measurements to help whoever’s in trouble.

13. Code Red

As with anything related to the color red, this secret cruise ship code sounds like danger, and its meaning reflects that. When “Code Red” goes off, it means there’s been a spread or an outbreak of a disease on the ship.

Soon enough, that announcement will be followed by confining all the affected passengers to their quarters to keep the illness from spreading further.

Then, you can expect the cleaning crew to religiously scrub every inch of the ship!

However, there’s also “Code Yellow,” which is often used when there’s a spread of illness on the ship, but it isn’t as serious.

14. Code Red Parties

This code has nothing to do with illnesses but rather fires. If you hear it repeated three times, there’s likely a fire onboard.

Other times, it can be an indicator that there’s a fire at sea.

15. Code Purple

Code purple relates to bomb threats. It may also be used in instances of chemical or biological threats.

If you hear “Code Purple” on the overhead speakers, don’t panic. Cruise ship security is highly trained to deal with all kinds of emergencies.

Wet floor sign on the board of the cruise ship

“PVI” is short for “Public Vomiting Incident.” As you might have guessed, this secret code relates to incidents requiring quick clean-up, usually when someone has thrown up.

Still, not all cruise lines use that code. Sometimes, you’ll hear “Purel” or “Code V,” which is short for “Code Vomit.”

It’s one of the less serious announcements on a cruise ship since it isn’t an emergency. However, other passengers who had already been there when that incident happened may disagree.

17. Victoria

This code may not be used across many cruise lines to indicate an extreme flooding incident onboard.

If you hear this code, don’t panic. Though no one wants to hear that their ship is flooding, it’s more often related to a pipe burst than a ship accident.

18. Operation Bright Star

Whenever you hear “Operation Bright Star” on a cruise ship, just know that it’s a member of the medical team making the call.

Usually, this alarms other medical team members to let them know that they must assemble to aid a passenger having an urgent medical emergency. In most cases, it’ll be a stroke, seizure, heart attack, and the like.

19. Operation Fallen Star or Operation Rising Star

Those two secret codes are pretty ominous—they mean that someone has passed on the cruise ship.

Crew members will take care of the dead person’s body, which will be stored in the cruise ship’s morgue until the vessel reaches land.

Some cruise lines will use “Operation Bright Star” in this scenario.

' src=

Marcello De Lio

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Trending now

Man on a cruise connecting to Princess Cruises MedallionNet Internet on a laptop

Cruise workers use code words to communicate on board — here are 35 of the secret terms

  • Cruise workers have their own secret language they use to communicate with one another. 
  • Code words like "oscar" are used to alert crew members of emergencies without causing mass panic.
  • Other terms, like "babaloo" and "mamagayo," are used to describe annoying guests or employees.  

Insider Today

If you don't work on a cruise ship, "no rice, no power" and "don't get a banana" may sound like an alien language. That's because crew members have dozens of secret code words and sayings they use to communicate while keeping passengers in the dark.

A single cruise ship may employ people from over 40 countries, resulting in industry slang that combines words and sayings from several different languages. Insider compiled a dictionary of cruise ship language based on interviews with cruise workers, previous reporting , and industry blogs . Alert codes and crew slang often vary by cruise line. 

PVI, Protein Spill, and Purell: From sea sickness to the norovirus (a cruise's worst nightmare), crew members are no strangers to "public vomit incidents," or PVIs for short. To avoid upsetting passengers — and their stomachs — cruise workers may also refer to such incidents as a "protein spill" or "Purell" when orchestrating clean-up duty. 

Winnie: In a similar vein, "Winnie" means a passenger has pooped in the pool — Disney Cruise shorthand for Winnie-the-Pooh.

Mufasa: A reference to the saddest scene in cinematic history, Disney Cruise workers use "Mufasa" to communicate that a parent has been separated from their child. 

Bravo, Alpha Team, Red Party:  Different cruise lines have their own alert codes to signal that there's a fire, either onboard the ship or at sea. These are three of them. 

Alpha, Star Code, Code Mike: Similarly, cruise lines have their own alert codes for medical emergencies, including the above four. 

Echo: One word I never want to hear on a giant floating vessel is "echo," which can mean that the ship is drifting or that there's a risk of high winds or collision.

Kilo: "Kilo" is used during an emergency to alert crew members to report to their assigned posts. 

Code Oscar or Mr. Mob: Different emergency code words used to alert crew of a man overboard (M.O.B) situation. According to Marine Insight , the distress signal is raised over the cruise radio system and loudspeakers to alert crew members to stand watch for the missing person and slow the ship down. 

Some terms are used to secretly describe passengers or fellow workers 

Babaloo : Alternatively spelled "Babalu," this is widespread cruise worker slang that means "fool" or "idiot."

Mamagayo:  Meaning "lazy," this term is used to describe a cruise worker shirking from their job responsibilities or pretending to work when they're really not. 

Capo: Derived from the Italian word for a military captain, this is cruise slang for "boss."

Cone and Coning: "Cone" is a derogatory word crew members use to describe passengers, a supposed reference to how cruise workers are constantly dodging vacationers as if they're swerving around traffic cones. "Coning," on the other hand is when a crew member hooks up with a passenger (a fireable offense). 

Staff versus Crew: Various employee departments onboard a cruise ship are organized within a rigid hierarchy that can determine their pay and living conditions. One such divide is between cruise "staff," which typically consists of entertainment, retail, and guest service workers, and cruise "crew," which includes waiters, bartenders, and housekeeping. 

Related stories

Concessionaire: This is a third-party contract worker that is not employed directly by the cruise line. This can include retail shop workers and casino employees, for example. 

Mainstage: Worker slang that refers to a cruise's entertainment team. 

Blue Boys: Nickname for janitorial staff who rarely leave the ship and send all of their money back home. 

Shoreside: These are corporate cruise employees who don't work on the boat and don't always listen to their "shipboard" counterparts. 

Meter Monitor: A word used during the pandemic to describe the guest service officers in charge of monitoring social distance guidelines between guests.

Royal Genie: These are the VIP butlers on Royal Caribbean cruises who wait on guests staying in the exclusive Star Suites. 

If you're a cruise worker, the last thing you want is a "banana"

Banana: If you're a cruise worker, you do not want a banana. This means a staff member has broken the rules and may get written up or reported. 

Mafia: The so-called mafia on a cruise ship is when crew members from the same country form a tight-knit community in order to support one another.

Paisano: If crew members are "paisano," they are from the same country or share the same ethnic origin. 

Second jobs: Some cruise workers run side businesses on the ship, like crew hair salons or food delivery. This is their "second job."

Let's Makan: This means "let's eat!"

No Rice, No Power: Slang used by crew members whose diet consists mainly of rice. 

Lifestyle Cruise: An industry euphemism for sexy adult-only cruises, including clothing-optional cruises, swinger cruises, and singles cruises. 

Cruise to Nowhere: Also called a "stay-cation" by some cruise workers, this is when a ship cruises at sea without stopping at any ports.

The Red Phone: This is a confidential phone line to the mainland that cruise workers can use to talk about sensitive issues. 

Float: A cash register that contains many different types of foreign currencies.

Dect phone (or deck phone): Portable work phone used by crew members that connects to the ship's telephone system.

Slop chest: A tiny convenience store in the crew-only section of a cruise ship that sells essential items. 

Do you work on a cruise ship? Have a story or tip to share? Email this reporter from a non-work address at [email protected]

Watch: This is what it takes to be a cruise ship performer

code 5 on cruise ship

  • Main content
  • WORLD CRUISE PORTS
  • CHAT SITE RULES – here on Doris Visits
  • AMBASSADOR CRUISE CHAT
  • AZAMARA CRUISES CHAT
  • CUNARD CRUISES CHAT
  • FRED OLSEN CRUISES CHAT
  • MARELLA DISCOVERY CHAT
  • MARELLA EXPLORER CHAT
  • RIVER CRUISING
  • P&O ADULT ONLY – Aurora & Arcadia Group
  • P&O BRITANNIA CHAT
  • P&O VENTURA CHAT
  • P&O IONA CHAT
  • P&O AZURA CHAT
  • P&O IONA chat group on Facebook
  • SAGA CHAT GROUP
  • VIKING CRUISES (all) CHAT
  • VIRGIN VOYAGES CHAT
  • LUXURY ADULT CRUISING
  • CHAT SITE RULES
  • Guidelines for Moderators
  • Over 50 CRUISE NOVELS, THRILLERS & ROMANCES (all)
  • FICTION@SEA Meet the writers – at crime writer’s festival in the Straits of Gibraltar
  • Stuart St Paul – 50 years in the movie industry
  • … and port presenter Jean Heard
  • Crime Writers @ Sea Festival.
  • Looking back at 2021; I cheated death, had major brain surgery, didn’t cruise. I end with a simple message.
  • Jumping off the Statue of Liberty – Stuart St Paul on how and why
  • Stuart’s last blog post
  • CRUISE SHIP HEIST
  • CSCI CRUISE SHIP CRIME INVESTIGATORS
  • Love To Cruise T-shirts
  • Kids Cruise T-shirts
  • Iona T-shirts
  • Azura T-shirts
  • Cunard T-shirts
  • Marella wear
  • Ventura T-shirt
  • WORKING AT SEA

Emergency codes used on a cruise ship and an air rescue filmed at sea

code 5 on cruise ship

Enjoy reading a cruise

Champagne Beach is in the novel DISASTROUS COVID-19 CRUISE ROMANCE .

Enjoy your cruise

code 5 on cruise ship

EVERY CRUISE PORT – click here       EVERY CRUISE SHIP – click here

Welcome to cruise doris visits, here to help you cruise, we film cruise port guides., our first stop 2024 will be africa..

Ex-movie makes, we now write thrilling

Pace-driven holiday cruise novels.

code 5 on cruise ship

But we leave the chat to you under the watchful team of chat group mods & experts on our hosted FB groups

– feel welcome, join in, ask a question, start a chat thread, the doris visits chat groups.

AMBASSADOR CRUISE GROUP – UK based cruise line with two ships

    AURORA & ARCADIA P&O GROUP – the adult ships

MARELLA CRUISES GROUP – Explorer style ships

MARELLA CRUISES GROUP – Discovery (Disco 2) style ships

CUNARD CRUISE GROUP – big fav of ours – inclusive – lively – dressy

  FRED OLSEN CRUISE GROUP

P&O AZURA GROUP   – Grand Class family ships –   P&O VENTURA GROUP (no fly)

P&O BRITANNIA GROUP – the mid size family ship

P&O IONA & ARVIA GROUP – the big new family ships

SAGA CRUISE GROUP  – smaller over 50 UK style all inclusive ships  

VIKING CRUISES GROUP – smaller – adult only – US/UK/International ships – great routes

AZAMARA & OCEANIA     VIRGIN ADULT SHIPS – Adult only ships

EVERY CRUISE PORT -click here       EVERY CRUISE SHIP – click here

In 2024 we are building our AFRICA menu and visiting to film Cape Town and other ports

Freddie Mercury house in Zanzibar

Freddie Mercury house in Zanzibar

Freddie Mercury was born in Zanzibar. It is a strictly religious country so is not as proud of him as you might expect.

Tema Accra cruise port

Tema Accra cruise port

Tema Accra is a popular port receiving over 1500 vessels a year. It is popular with cruise ships.

Abidjan, the Ivory Coast

Abidjan, the Ivory Coast

Abidjan is an economic centre with modern landmarks like La Pyramide, and St. Paul’s Cathedral which has a

Which beach was the Bounty advert filmed on?

Which beach was the Bounty advert filmed on?

Back in the 1980’s Sierra Leone was not a big tourist destination and its beaches were empty enough to film the memorable A TASTE OF PARADISE

About Us  

Doris Visits is just a little hobby, and a way of helping people research ports and ships. It is our way of giving back as we are on the ships between 6 and 12 times a year as Guest Lecturers. The site is also supported by other guest lecturers.

Why Doris?  It was a character Jean played in a TV show and we started the port guides as a little spin-off. It took over. I mean, rode into town and said this is it.

Who is Jean ?  Jean is a West End and Broadway actress who now has her own one woman show called Royal Mistresses, which she performs at guilds and on ships. Hence, she cruises – a bit. She now presents TV and is known by many cruisers for her Doris Visits port guides.

Who is Stuart?   Featured in a clip in the 2024 Oscars – in the tribute to movie stuntmen – he was the Queen Alien in Aliens. Now, he points the iPhone at Jean when they go and explore ashore. He finished in movies as a director, and now writes cruise thrillers.

The grandchildren who sometimes travel and from their son Luke Aikman. He was the young Colin Firth in Fever Pitch and appeared in Freight. He is now a producer and business entrepreneur. Their daughter helped with the plot of the first four novels and is now writing with comedian Joe Wilkinson.  Laura Aikman is known for being the girlfriend in the Christmas Gavin and Stacey, and Dyan Cannon in Archie. Some grew up with her Saturday show, Mysti.

Government Travel Advice by Country – click this box

Travel Health Pro advice by country – click here (Vaccination recommendations)

Fantastic cruise ship tours, top to bottom

code 5 on cruise ship

Filmed guides of the world’s amazing cruise ports

Doris Visits does not collect data but our advertising partners may do. You are welcome to stop adverts, refuse cookies, and just enjoy the cruise with us.

DorisVisits.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by showing Amazon products.  We joined to publish and sell our cruise novels. Please see Cruise Ship Heist. *Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates.  Doris Visits also participates in other affiliate programs, normally cruise or book related, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made using our the links we use you may assume links to third parties have these connections. You do not pay extra for ANY affiliate link you click, but that affiliate if they do pay us some money, is helping to pay for our server, widgets, apps and other tools we use to make this site work. To date we have never been a profit making site and the income from books supplements the cruise activity, help and advice we give. If in doubt, assume there may be a marketing link when you go through to a third party site. If you click links we use on other sites, used to drect you to cruise help, sites like Facebook, you should know that they replace our link with their own and that becomes the dominant link meaning they get paid the commission. The only site we can control is DorisVisits.com

  • Royal Caribbean International

Stateroom Codes Explained Please

Rodoverer

By Rodoverer , June 8, 2013 in Royal Caribbean International

Recommended Posts

Cool Cruiser

Would someone please explain the stateroom category codes to me please?

D1, D2, etc. All these codes and can't seem to find any explanation as to what the differences are.

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

Clarea

Would someone please explain the stateroom category codes to me please? D1, D2, etc. All these codes and can't seem to find any explanation as to what the differences are.

I'm not sure of the ship you are asking about, but looking at your signature, it seems that Legend is your next cruise. If so, here's a link to Legend's stateroom desciptions:

http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/cabinclass/home.do?br=R&shipCode=LG&shipName=Legend+Of+The+Seas

leaveitallbehind

leaveitallbehind

In general, the only basic physical difference within the "D" categories is deck and ship location. (There are also passenger capacity differences allowing between 2 - 4 per stateroom - but this can be with all "D's").

On the Oasis class ships, all D1's are located on the forward hump and have larger balconies than the remaining D staterooms - and typically are priced higher as a result.

On Legend the D1's are aft facing and should have a larger balcony as well based on this location.

setsail

As a rule the higher class D cat would have what they consider a better location ,more central, on the ship.

FLACRUISER99

FLACRUISER99

DragonOfTheSeas

DragonOfTheSeas

I agree it is impossible for me to figure out. I wish there was a link for each ship that explained it.

Bob--I followed your link to the rooms on Legend. But, that did not tell the difference between the different letters.

All D cabins are the same size on each ship, except for the aft facing deck 10 D's on Voyager class which are longer, thus larger. All E cabins are the same size. D's have a full couch and E's have only a loveseat. Sizes of D and E cabins do vary between ships. The older ships have smaller sq. footage. Oasis/Allure D's are a bit smaller than say Freedom class D's.

I agree it is impossible for me to figure out. I wish there was a link for each ship that explained it.   Bob--I followed your link to the rooms on Legend. But, that did not tell the difference between the different letters.

Here's a link to the deck plans of Legend:

http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/ships/ship/decks/deck/home.do?shipCode=LG

This shows the different decriptions of each letter. However, it won't show the difference between the last number, say a D1 and a D2.

Lower # = higher cat.:confused: Example D1 is higher then D8:cool:

Funny, my post did not mention a # , it only said cat.. So, my post stands as written, the higher class d cat has a more central location on the ship:cool::cool:

There is no difference within stateroom categories of the same letter description based on the number that follows the letter. (In this example D1, D2, etc.) They are all the same stateroom. The only distinction (aside from individual room passenger capacity) is deck and ship location - and an associated price difference determined by RCI based on that.

An analogy would be with airline seats where based on location (primarily), the same basic seat would have a different price. IMO it is a way that the cruise lines use to attract early deposits and skew the revenue across similar rooms. Kind of a supply and demand thing in that the lower priced rooms may sell out first, as may the higher priced, but preferred location staterooms.

The only other difference that also relates to price is that certain locations - such as some hump and aft facing - will frequently have larger balconies and greater room volume. This is particularly true with aft facing locations.

Here's a link to the deck plans of Legend:   http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/ships/ship/decks/deck/home.do?shipCode=LG   This shows the different decriptions of each letter. However, it won't show the difference between the last number, say a D1 and a D2.

Yes, I have seen these deck plans. What I can not tell is what is the difference between [using the deck plan you linked to] an outside that is a an I or G or an inside that is an M, N or Q.

Knowing that one room had a loveseat vs only a chair would make a difference to us. I have tried to do dummy bookings and clicked on he different letters to see how the description changes. But, it does not change--only the price. I know that different locations are different prices. But these cabins are side by side. Also, I can see the G1 is either a connecting room or has greater capacity. [except there are 2 accessible cabins that are neither:confused:].

I agree there should be some listing of the differences so consumers can make an informed choice.

AAA75

These are all staterooms

D's E's are balcony rooms.

F G H I's are outside view.

J K L M N Q are interior

JS, GS, FS OS RS FJ are all suites.

Yes, I have seen these deck plans. What I can not tell is what is the difference between [using the deck plan you linked to] an outside that is a an I or G or an inside that is an M, N or Q.   Knowing that one room had a loveseat vs only a chair would make a difference to us. I have tried to do dummy bookings and clicked on he different letters to see how the description changes. But, it does not change--only the price. I know that different locations are different prices. But these cabins are side by side. Also, I can see the G1 is either a connecting room or has greater capacity. [except there are 2 accessible cabins that are neither:confused:].   I agree there should be some listing of the differences so consumers can make an informed choice.
I have not seen a Royal document or web page with the level of specificity you would like.

I agree. It seems this document would be a big help. I ask myself why they label these rooms differently if there is no way to tell what the difference is? :p

I am not trying to be annoying--just curious. When I book a cabin I try to make the best decision possible. . . and then I am happy that I will be aboard a ship.:D

I agree. It seems this document would be a big help. I ask myself why they label these rooms differently if there is no way to tell what the difference is? :p   I am not trying to be annoying--just curious. When I book a cabin I try to make the best decision possible. . . and then I am happy that I will be aboard a ship.:D
My guess is that Royal does not want to get pinned down to furnishing the stateroom to that level of detail.
There is no difference within stateroom categories of the same letter description based on the number that follows the letter. (In this example D1, D2, etc.) They are all the same stateroom. The only distinction (aside from individual room passenger capacity) is deck and ship location - and an associated price difference determined by RCI based on that.  
I'm not sure that statement is correct. I believe I read somewhere that D1's have a full sofa and D2's only have a love seat. Maybe someone knows for sure--I surely don't trust my memory all that much these days:rolleyes:
I thought you have to see the little triangle icon on the state room map to determine if you have a sofabed or not. Now I am really confused.

20,000+ Club

reallyitsmema

Yes, you will see a triangle if the cabin has a sofabed. What are you confused about?

I can see that--but, then the question is why have a different category?

I just think it is interesting that people purchase cabins based on perceived additional value without really knowing what it is.

I have frequently seen someone bragging about getting upgrade to a D1 vs a D3. Outside of location [which I can easily see] I assume there is no difference. Then I am not disappointed. :)

I can see that--but, then the question is why have a different category?  

Maybe Royal has reasons for the different categories that are important to them, and that they choose to keep to themselves?

Mark_K

There are many things that can determine the desirability- location, connecting, ability to accept more than two people, size, size of balcony, etc.

  • 5 years later...

Brown Suga 55

What are R/C stateroom categories? 

2 minutes ago, Brown Suga 55 said: What are R/C stateroom categories? 

http://creative.rccl.com/Sales/Royal/General_Info/17055533_Recategorization_Trade_Grid.pdf

orville99

On ‎6‎/‎8‎/‎2013 at 11:25 AM, truffles2 said:   I'm not sure that statement is correct. I believe I read somewhere that D1's have a full sofa and D2's only have a love seat. Maybe someone knows for sure--I surely don't trust my memory all that much these days:rolleyes:

Typically, connecting staterooms have a love seat (in order to accommodate the connecting door), and non-connecting staterooms have a sofa. As for physical size, all cabins with the same letter have the same internal square footage - the number that accompanies the letter is determined by location - the higher the number, the further away the cabin is from what the cruise line feels are the most popular/convenient locations. I.e. A balcony all the way aft that requires a long walk just to get to the closest elevator would be less desirable than one closer to the elevator.

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

  • Welcome to Cruise Critic
  • New Cruisers
  • Cruise Lines “A – O”
  • Cruise Lines “P – Z”
  • River Cruising
  • Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
  • Special Interest Cruising
  • Cruise Discussion Topics
  • UK Cruising
  • Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
  • Canadian Cruisers
  • North American Homeports
  • Ports of Call
  • Cruise Conversations

Announcements

  • New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

WAR_icy_SUPERstar777.jpg

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS

LauraS · Started 16 hours ago

LauraS · Started 22 hours ago

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 02:48 PM

LauraS · Started Monday at 05:25 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 03:57 PM

RX007369.JPG

  • Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
  • Find Your Roll Call
  • Meet & Mingle
  • Community Help Center
  • All Activity
  • Member Photo Albums
  • Meet & Mingle Photos
  • Favorite Cruise Memories
  • Cruise Food Photos
  • Cruise Ship Photos
  • Ports of Call Photos
  • Towel Animal Photos
  • Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
  • Write a Review
  • Live Cruise Reports
  • Member Cruise Reviews
  • Create New...

voyagerinfo.com

Cruise FAQs

What are the secret codes on cruise ship doors.

' src=

As an experienced traveler, the hidden aspects of cruise ships have always captivated me. Among those, the enigmatic codes found on the doors of cruise ships particularly spark my interest. These codes, a secret among the crew and staff, bring an element of mystery and fascination to the experience onboard.

In this article, I will delve into the depths of this enigma, decoding the meaning behind these cryptic combinations of numbers and letters. We’ll explore the significance of room numbers, the different types of codes used, and the safety and security measures they represent.

Additionally, I’ll share tips on how to navigate the ship using these door codes, ensuring a seamless and efficient journey throughout your cruise.

So, get ready to unlock the secrets behind cruise ship door codes and discover a whole new level of adventure on the high seas.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Emergency procedures and safety measures on cruise ships include necessary steps for emergencies, thorough evacuation route planning, and regular drills.
  • Door codes on cruise ships provide easy and secure navigation, access to different areas, and add convenience to the cruise experience.
  • Door codes can represent specific locations or functions on the ship, with codes starting with 1 indicating public areas and codes starting with 2 signifying crew-only sections.
  • The mystery and intrigue of door codes create a sense of hidden world waiting to be discovered on the ship.

Understanding Cruise Ship Door Codes

As you stroll down the long corridor of the cruise ship, you can’t help but wonder about the mysterious secret codes that adorn each door. These codes are not just random numbers and letters; they are actually part of the cruise ship door code technology.

This technology is designed to enhance the safety and security of passengers on board. By using unique codes for each door, cruise ship staff can easily identify which doors have been accessed and by whom. This allows for quick response in case of emergencies and ensures that only authorized personnel can enter certain areas.

The benefits of door codes for passengers are immense. Not only do they provide peace of mind, but they also eliminate the need for physical keys, making it easier to navigate the ship and reducing the risk of lost or stolen keys.

Now, let’s explore the mystery further and decode what these codes actually mean.

Decoding the Mystery: What Do the Codes Mean?

Unlocking the enigmatic symbols adorning the entryways, passengers are left in awe as they decipher the hidden language of the maritime realm. The history of cruise ship door codes is a fascinating journey that traces back to the early days of seafaring.

Originally used for security purposes, these codes have evolved over time to incorporate a variety of meanings and functions. From indicating staff access levels to alerting crew members about emergencies, the codes serve as a vital communication tool on board. As technology advanced, the codes also became more complex, incorporating electronic keycards and biometric systems. Today, the evolution of cruise ship door codes continues, with newer ships utilizing advanced technologies such as facial recognition.

These codes not only enhance security but also streamline guest experiences. Now, let’s explore the significance of room numbers and how they contribute to the overall cruising experience.

The Significance of Room Numbers

Step into your floating sanctuary and discover the magic behind the unique room numbers that transport you to a world of comfort and luxury. The significance of room numbers on a cruise ship goes beyond just identifying your temporary abode. It is a secret language that provides valuable information and can enhance your overall experience.

Here are a few tips for using door codes to unlock the hidden treasures of your cruise ship:

Look for odd or even numbers: Odd numbers are usually located on the port side of the ship, while even numbers are found on the starboard side.

Pay attention to deck numbers: Higher deck numbers often mean better views and easier access to amenities.

Familiarize yourself with the location of your room: Knowing the general area of your room can save you time and energy when navigating the ship.

Take note of any letters or symbols: These can indicate special room categories or features.

Understanding the significance of room numbers and utilizing door codes can make your cruise experience even more enjoyable. Now, let’s delve into identifying different types of codes.

Identifying Different Types of Codes

Don’t bother trying to crack the riddle of the mysterious symbols and letters adorning your room number – they won’t reveal any hidden meanings or special features. The truth is that the codes on cruise ship doors are simply a form of door code technology used for identification purposes.

These codes help staff members locate specific rooms quickly and efficiently. While the specific codes may vary depending on the cruise ship, there are some common cruise ship door codes that you may come across. For example, the letters A, B, C, and D often represent different sections or decks of the ship, while the numbers indicate the specific room or cabin.

These codes are not meant to be secret or mysterious; they are simply practical tools for organization and navigation. Now, let’s explore the safety and security measures in place onboard.

Safety and Security Measures

Ensuring the safety and security of passengers and crew members is of utmost importance on board any cruise vessel. To achieve this, cruise ships utilize door code technology as part of their safety and security measures. These door code systems provide numerous benefits, enhancing the overall safety of the ship.

One major advantage of door code technology is the ability to restrict access to certain areas of the ship. By assigning unique codes to different groups of individuals, such as passengers, crew members, and staff, unauthorized entry into restricted areas is prevented. This helps to maintain the privacy and safety of both passengers and crew members.

In addition, door code systems allow for quick and efficient access to cabins and other authorized areas. Passengers and crew members can easily enter their designated areas without the need for physical keys, reducing the risk of lost or stolen keys.

With door code technology in place, cruise ships can ensure the safety and security of everyone on board. This is just one aspect of the comprehensive safety measures implemented to protect passengers and crew members. In the next section, we will explore access levels and restricted areas, further highlighting the importance of these security measures.

Access Levels and Restricted Areas

Maintaining different access levels and restricted areas on board ensures the privacy and safety of passengers and crew members, a crucial consideration when it comes to the security of any vessel.

Access control is a vital aspect of cruise ship operations. Various levels of access are granted to different individuals based on their roles and responsibilities. For example, passengers typically have access to common areas and their assigned cabins, while crew members have additional access to work areas and crew-only spaces.

Restricted access is implemented in areas such as engine rooms, control centers, and storage areas. Only authorized personnel are allowed in these areas. These measures help prevent unauthorized individuals from entering sensitive areas and ensure that only those with the necessary training and clearance can access them.

Moving on to crew codes and identification, these play a significant role in maintaining security onboard and will be discussed in the following section.

Crew Codes and Identification

To ensure the utmost security and privacy, you must adhere to the strict protocols regarding crew identification and access codes.

On a cruise ship, crew members are assigned different access levels based on their job responsibilities. This ensures that only authorized personnel can enter restricted areas. Crew members receive specific identification cards that grant them access to different parts of the ship. These cards contain embedded codes that correspond to their access level. They are required to present their ID cards whenever they enter restricted areas, allowing security personnel to monitor and control access.

Crew codes and identification play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and smooth operation of the ship. By strictly adhering to these protocols, the cruise ship can ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive areas.

Moving on to emergency procedures and evacuation routes, it is important to understand the necessary steps to follow during critical situations.

Emergency Procedures and Evacuation Routes

Now that we’ve discussed crew codes and identification, let’s move on to a crucial aspect of cruise ship safety: emergency procedures and evacuation routes.

As a seasoned cruiser, I understand the importance of thorough evacuation route planning and regular emergency drills and trainings. Cruise ships are equipped with state-of-the-art systems to ensure the safety of passengers in case of an emergency. These procedures include designated assembly stations and evacuation routes that are clearly marked throughout the ship.

Crew members are trained to assist passengers and guide them to safety during an evacuation. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout and evacuation routes, as this knowledge can be invaluable in case of an emergency.

Now, let’s delve into the next section where I’ll provide you with tips for navigating the ship using door codes.

Tips for Navigating the Ship Using Door Codes

Finding your way around the ship can be a breeze with the handy door codes that allow you to effortlessly navigate from one area to another. These door codes provide an added layer of security, ensuring that only authorized personnel and passengers can access certain areas.

By using the door codes, you can easily move between different decks, restaurants, and entertainment venues without getting lost or having to ask for directions. This not only saves time but also adds to the convenience of your cruise experience.

Additionally, door codes help maintain a sense of privacy and exclusivity in certain areas of the ship, creating a more intimate atmosphere for passengers. With the benefits of door codes in mind, let’s explore some fun facts and trivia about cruise ship door codes.

Fun Facts and Trivia about Cruise Ship Door Codes

Embark on a fascinating journey as you uncover intriguing tidbits and surprises surrounding the hidden passageways of a cruise ship. Did you know that the door codes on cruise ships hold secret meanings? These codes, often seen as a random string of numbers, actually have hidden messages that only the crew members are aware of. Each code represents a specific location or function on the ship, allowing crew members to easily navigate their way around. For example, a code starting with 1 may indicate a public area, while a code starting with 2 may signify a crew-only section. These door code secrets add an element of mystery and intrigue to the ship, making it feel like a hidden world waiting to be discovered. So next time you see a door code, remember that there may be more to it than meets the eye.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i bypass the door codes on a cruise ship.

Bypassing door codes on a cruise ship is illegal and unethical. As someone with expertise in cruise ship security, I strongly advise against attempting to hack access. It’s essential to respect the rules and regulations in place for the safety of all passengers.

Can I use my own personal code to access my cabin on a cruise ship?

Yes, you can use your own personal code to access your cabin on a cruise ship. It adds an extra layer of security and convenience. Simply set your desired code at check-in, and you’ll have easy and secure access to your cabin throughout your cruise.

Are there any specific codes for passengers with disabilities on cruise ships?

As someone who has experience with cruise ship accessibility accommodations, I can assure you that there are specific procedures in place to accommodate passengers with disabilities. Cruise ships have policies in place to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Can crew members access passenger cabins using their own codes?

Yes, crew members can access passenger cabins using their own codes. This is part of the security measures in place on cruise ships. These codes are used to ensure authorized access and maintain the safety and privacy of passengers.

Are there any secret codes that give passengers access to exclusive areas on a cruise ship?

Hidden privileges: Exclusive amenities for VIP cruise ship passengers include access to private lounges, priority dining, and exclusive entertainment. Unlocking the secrets: Behind the scenes tours for curious cruise ship guests reveal the inner workings of the ship, from the engine room to the captain’s bridge.

In conclusion, the secret codes on cruise ship doors hold the key to a world of knowledge and safety. Just like the hidden language of symbols, these codes speak volumes about the ship’s layout, crew members, and emergency procedures. They are a silent guardian, guiding us through the vast ocean and ensuring our well-being. So next time you step on board a cruise ship, take a moment to appreciate the significance of these codes and the peace of mind they bring. Bon voyage!

code 5 on cruise ship

Claire, a creative soul with an unquenchable thirst for storytelling, is an integral part of the Voyager Info team. As a dedicated writer, she weaves captivating narratives that transport readers to enchanting cruise destinations and beyond.

Claire’s love affair with writing began at an early age when she discovered the magic of words and their ability to craft worlds and emotions. Her innate curiosity led her to explore various literary genres, but it was travel writing that truly captured her heart. Drawing inspiration from her own globetrotting adventures and encounters with diverse cultures, Claire embarked on a journey to become a travel writer par excellence.

What Cruise Lines Go To Israel

What Shoes To Pack For Alaska Cruise

' src=

Claire, a creative soul with an unquenchable thirst for storytelling, is an integral part of the Voyager Info team. As a dedicated writer, she weaves captivating narratives that transport readers to enchanting cruise destinations and beyond. Claire’s love affair with writing began at an early age when she discovered the magic of words and their ability to craft worlds and emotions. Her innate curiosity led her to explore various literary genres, but it was travel writing that truly captured her heart. Drawing inspiration from her own globetrotting adventures and encounters with diverse cultures, Claire embarked on a journey to become a travel writer par excellence.

code 5 on cruise ship

You may like

Fire incident strikes carnival freedom at grand turk port: what happened?.

Discover the mysterious cause of the fiery incident that struck Carnival Freedom at Grand Turk Port, leaving everyone on board in a state of shock and uncertainty.

carnival freedom fire incident

Imagine this scenario: an ordinary day on the ocean is abruptly interrupted by something unforeseen. Carnival Freedom, which was serenely moored at Grand Turk Port, suddenly became enveloped in flames.

But what caused the flames to dance in the ship's smokestack? Stay with us as we uncover the details behind this alarming event and the swift actions taken to ensure everyone's safety.

  • Fire erupted in Carnival Freedom's funnel during docking in Grand Turk.
  • All 2,504 passengers and 972 crew members safely evacuated.
  • Carnival's emergency response team swiftly extinguished the fire.
  • Investigation ongoing to determine fire's origin and implement preventive measures.

Timeline of Events Leading Up

Investigating the timeline of events leading up to the fire incident on Carnival Freedom at Grand Turk Port reveals critical moments preceding the emergency response.

The fire incident on Carnival Freedom occurred while the ship was docking in Grand Turk during a five-day cruise. It started in the ship's funnel, prompting swift action from emergency response teams who successfully extinguished the fire. All 2,504 guests and 972 crew members aboard the Carnival Freedom were reported safe.

After receiving clearance from local authorities, guests were allowed to disembark in Grand Turk.

The sequence of events leading up to the fire highlights the importance of preparedness and quick action in such emergencies. Understanding the timeline helps in evaluating the effectiveness of response protocols and the coordination between the crew, emergency teams, and local authorities.

The orderly disembarkation of guests post-incident demonstrates the efficient handling of the situation, ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone on board.

Emergency Response and Evacuation

effective emergency response measures

Upon detecting the fire in the ship's funnel, Carnival's emergency response team swiftly extinguished the flames on the Carnival Freedom cruise ship. The team's quick action ensured the safety of all 2,504 passengers and 972 crew members during the evacuation process. Passengers were efficiently evacuated and granted permission by local authorities to disembark in Grand Turk, where arrangements were made for their comfort. A replacement ship, Carnival Conquest, was organized to transport the evacuated individuals to their intended destinations. The coordinated efforts of the emergency response team, in collaboration with local authorities, were instrumental in ensuring the safe evacuation of everyone on board. Currently, the damaged Carnival Freedom ship is scheduled for repairs in Freeport to address the aftermath of the fire incident. Below is a table summarizing the key aspects of the emergency response and evacuation process:

Investigation Into the Fire Cause

Our current focus lies in delving into the root cause of the fire incident that occurred on the Carnival Freedom at Grand Turk Port. The investigation, spearheaded by Carnival Cruise Line, is aimed at determining the origin of the fire. Experts will meticulously analyze the affected areas on the ship to pinpoint the exact source and circumstances that led to the fire outbreak. Understanding the root cause of this incident is paramount as it will pave the way for implementing robust preventive measures to enhance passenger safety on future voyages.

The investigative process will involve a thorough assessment of various factors, including the ship's systems, materials used in construction, and potential human error. By scrutinizing all aspects related to the fire, we aim to gather crucial insights that won't only shed light on what transpired but also help in fortifying safety protocols onboard Carnival cruise ships. Rest assured, our commitment to ensuring the well-being of passengers and crew remains unwavering as we delve into this investigation with meticulous attention to detail.

Impact on Passengers and Crew

effects on travel experience

Following the investigation into the fire cause, our immediate focus shifts towards assessing the impact on passengers and crew following the incident at Grand Turk Port. All 2,504 guests and 972 crew members aboard the Carnival Freedom were reported safe after the fire incident. Passengers were allowed to disembark in Grand Turk after clearance from local authorities. Carnival arranged for the Carnival Conquest to pick up the affected passengers from the Carnival Freedom.

The cancellation of scheduled voyages for both the Carnival Freedom and Carnival Conquest due to the incident has disrupted travel plans for many passengers. Passengers from the affected trip were expected to arrive in Port Canaveral on Monday, facing unexpected changes to their itineraries.

The safety and well-being of passengers and crew remain a top priority for Carnival Cruise Line as they navigate the aftermath of the fire incident at Grand Turk Port.

Safety Measures and Future Plans

In light of the recent fire incident at Grand Turk Port, our focus now shifts towards analyzing and implementing enhanced safety measures and future plans. Following the fire incident on the Carnival Freedom cruise ship, Carnival's emergency response team acted swiftly to extinguish the fire, showcasing the effectiveness of their protocols. The crew members also played a crucial role in ensuring passenger safety during the emergency, highlighting the importance of their training and readiness.

To further enhance safety measures, Carnival is considering providing enhanced training for crew members and evaluating potential upgrades to onboard safety systems. Additionally, they are reviewing safety protocols post-incident to assess and improve emergency responses. Industry-wide discussions on safety standards are also underway to ensure that the cruise industry meets and exceeds industry standards for passenger safety.

What Happened to the Carnival Freedom After the Fire?

After the fire incident, repairs are planned in Freeport, Bahamas for the damaged Carnival Freedom. The passengers will be transferred to the Carnival Conquest for their return journey. Scheduled trips for both ships are canceled.

What Burned on Carnival Freedom?

What burned on Carnival Freedom? The fire originated in the ship's funnel, causing visible damage. Investigations underway to determine the exact cause. Thankfully, passengers and crew were unharmed during this incident. Stay tuned for updates.

What Happened on the Carnival Freedom?

We experienced a fire incident aboard Carnival Freedom at Grand Turk Port. Emergency teams swiftly extinguished the fire in the ship's funnel during docking. All guests and crew, totaling 2,504 and 972 respectively, were safely evacuated.

What Happened on May 26 on a Carnival Cruise?

On May 26, a Carnival cruise ship experienced a fire incident. The fire erupted in the ship's funnel during docking, but our emergency team swiftly extinguished it. Thankfully, all 2,504 guests and 972 crew members were unharmed.

As the smoke cleared and the flames were extinguished, the Carnival Freedom's fire incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life at sea.

Like a turbulent storm suddenly appearing on a calm horizon, this event highlights the importance of preparedness, swift action, and unwavering teamwork in the face of adversity.

Through thorough investigation, enhanced safety measures, and continued support for passengers and crew, Carnival is steadfast in ensuring smooth sailing ahead.

How to Find Galveston Hotels With Convenient Cruise Port Transportation

Prepare for your cruise adventure in Galveston by discovering how to find hotels with convenient cruise port transportation, ensuring a seamless start to your journey.

galveston hotels near port

In our quest for hotels in Galveston that provide easy transportation to the cruise port, we discovered that establishments such as Hilton Galveston Island Resort and The Tremont House include shuttle services, ensuring smooth access to the cruise terminal.

However, determining the best choice involves more than just shuttle availability. By considering factors such as cost, distance, and scheduling, you can ensure a smooth start to your cruise adventure.

Stay tuned to learn how to navigate these considerations and find the perfect hotel for your pre-cruise stay.

  • Choose hotels offering free or paid shuttle services for seamless access to the cruise port.
  • Consider factors like distance, shuttle availability, and parking to ensure convenient transportation.
  • Opt for hotels with reliable shuttle services, complimentary parking, and advance reservation options.
  • Budget-friendly options like Harbor House Hotel and Avenue O Bed and Breakfast offer free shuttles and cruise parking.

Benefits of Choosing Hotels With Cruise Shuttles

Choosing hotels with cruise shuttles offers travelers a seamless and stress-free way to reach the Galveston cruise port with ease. By staying at a hotel that provides shuttle services to the port, guests can avoid the hassle of finding transportation on their own. This convenience not only saves time but also eliminates the need to worry about parking fees at the port. Some hotels even offer secure parking options for guests who utilize their cruise shuttle services, providing peace of mind during their travels.

Additionally, opting for a hotel with a cruise shuttle ensures a timely arrival at the port, reducing stress and potential delays on embarkation day. It's important to note that the availability of shuttle services at hotels may vary, so confirming this amenity directly with the hotel when booking is essential.

Factors to Consider for Convenient Transportation

transportation planning considerations outlined

When planning for convenient transportation to the cruise port, it's crucial to factor in the distance between the hotel and the terminal. To ensure a smooth travel experience, consider the following factors:

  • Distance to Cruise Terminal: Choose a hotel that's close to the cruise terminal to minimize travel time and potential traffic delays.
  • Shuttle to Port: Look for hotels that offer shuttle services to the port. This convenient option can save you the hassle of parking and transfer logistics.
  • Free Parking: Consider hotels that provide free or discounted cruise parking. This can help you avoid additional fees and make your overall trip more cost-effective.
  • Shuttle Services: Review previous guest feedback on the hotel's shuttle services to gauge their reliability and efficiency.
  • Confirm Availability: Before your trip, confirm the availability and schedule of the shuttle services directly with the hotel. This proactive step can help you plan your travel itinerary effectively.

Top Galveston Hotels Offering Port Transfers

Among the top Galveston hotels offering port transfers, the San Luis Resort stands out for its exceptional shuttle service to the cruise ship dock and highly praised staff. Guests can enjoy a seamless transfer to the cruise terminal with the convenience of the shuttle service provided by the hotel. Additionally, the San Luis Resort offers complimentary parking for guests, making it a hassle-free option for those traveling by car. The professional staff ensures that guests' needs are met promptly and efficiently, adding to the overall positive experience at the hotel.

These top hotels in Galveston offer various shuttle services catering to different needs, ensuring that guests have a comfortable and stress-free stay before embarking on their cruise adventure.

Shuttle Services: What to Look For

choosing shuttle service tips

To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, savvy travelers should prioritize hotels in Galveston that offer complimentary shuttle services to the cruise port. When looking for shuttle services, consider the following:

  • Free Shuttle : Seek hotels that provide a free shuttle service to the cruise port to save on transportation costs.
  • Operational Schedule : Check if the shuttle operates regularly and offers convenient pick-up and drop-off locations at the port.
  • Reliability : Ensure the shuttle service is reliable and punctual, with experienced drivers familiar with the route to the cruise terminal.
  • Advance Reservations : Some hotels may require advance booking for shuttle services, so inquire about availability and secure your spot early.
  • Inclusive Service : Confirm if the shuttle service is included in your hotel booking or if there are any extra fees for this convenient transportation to the cruise port.

Budget-Friendly Hotel Options With Transfers

For travelers seeking budget-friendly accommodations with convenient transfers to the cruise port, consider these affordable hotel options in Galveston.

Harbor House Hotel and Marina stands out for offering a complimentary shuttle service that takes guests within walking distance to the cruise port.

Avenue O Bed and Breakfast not only provides a free shuttle but also offers complimentary cruise parking for its guests, adding extra value to your stay.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly hotel near the cruise terminal, Quality InnSuites Beachfront is a solid choice with free cruise parking included.

Howard Johnson is another option with shuttle services available for guests staying at the hotel before embarking on their cruise.

Lastly, Beachcomber Inn by The Beach is both convenient and affordable, providing free cruise parking for guests looking to enjoy a stress-free pre-cruise stay.

These options ensure you can enjoy a seamless transition from your hotel to the port without breaking the bank.

How to Book Hotels With Cruise Port Transportation

hotel booking with port transfer

When planning your stay in Galveston for a cruise, securing a hotel with convenient transportation to the port is essential for a stress-free travel experience. Here are some tips on how to book hotels with cruise port transportation:

  • Look for hotels in Galveston that offer shuttle services to the cruise port for added convenience.
  • Check if the hotel provides free or paid shuttle services to the cruise terminal for easy transportation.
  • Ensure the hotel has shuttle availability on the date of your cruise departure.
  • Consider booking a hotel package that includes shuttle services to the port to simplify your travel logistics.
  • Confirm the shuttle schedule and pick-up/drop-off locations with the hotel before your stay.

Booking a hotel that offers shuttle services can streamline your journey from the hotel to the cruise port, saving you time and hassle. By arranging these details in advance, you can focus on enjoying your cruise without worrying about transportation logistics.

Insider Tips for Seamless Port Access

navigating cruise port efficiently

Navigating the Galveston cruise port with ease requires insider tips and savvy strategies for seamless access. When looking for hotels with convenient transportation options, keep an eye out for those offering free shuttle services to the cruise port.

Many hotels in Galveston provide complimentary shuttle services as part of their package deals, adding extra value for guests. To ensure a smooth transfer to the Galveston cruise terminal, it's essential to verify the shuttle's availability directly with the hotel. Remember to check for any potential changes in shuttle schedules or services, as availability may vary.

Utilizing online resources and guest reviews can help you pinpoint hotels with reliable shuttle services, making your journey to the Galveston cruise port hassle-free. With plenty of options for hotel shuttles to the cruise port, you can enjoy a stress-free start to your cruise vacation.

Understanding the Cruise Port Layout

navigating the cruise terminal

Curiously positioned at the edge of Galveston Island, the three terminals of the Port of Galveston cater to different cruise lines and voyages. Here's a breakdown of the Cruise Terminal Layout:

  • Cruise Terminal 1: Primarily serves Carnival Cruise Line, offering voyages to the Caribbean and Mexico.
  • Cruise Terminal 2: Caters to Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises, known for family-friendly and luxury experiences.
  • Cruise Terminal 3: Handles Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International ships, popular for their varied itineraries.

Major highways like Interstate 10, Highway 146, and Interstate 45 provide Convenient Access to the Port of Galveston Terminals. Located near Galveston's attractions, cruise passengers have easy access to explore the area before or after their trip. This strategic positioning makes hotels near the cruise port ideal choices for seamless Transportation Options and a convenient pre or post-cruise stay.

Maximizing Convenience With Hotel Shuttles

convenient hotel shuttles available

Maximizing convenience for travelers, many top-rated hotels in Galveston provide shuttle services to the nearby cruise port, ensuring seamless transfers for guests. These shuttle services can be arranged by the hotel staff, guaranteeing timely transfers to the cruise ship dock. Some hotels even offer shuttle services as part of package deals that include accommodations and parking, making it a hassle-free experience for guests. By utilizing these shuttle services, guests can eliminate the stress of finding parking near the cruise terminal and enjoy a smooth transition from their hotel to the cruise port. Here is a table highlighting the benefits of hotel shuttle services for cruise port transportation:

Planning Your Stay Around Port Departures

organizing cruise trip logistics

When planning our stay around port departures, it's crucial to consider the timing of our cruise departure and choose accommodations accordingly.

Checking the proximity of the hotel to the port can save us time and potential stress on the day of departure.

Making sure our hotel offers shuttle services can also add convenience to our travel plans.

Departure Timing Considerations

To ensure a smooth transition to your cruise departure from the Port of Galveston, it's essential to plan your stay around the timing of your embarkation. Arriving early at the hotel with convenient cruise port transportation allows you to relax and start your cruise vacation without rushing. Consider the following departure timing considerations:

  • Plan to arrive at the Galveston hotel at least a day before your cruise departure.
  • Book a hotel offering shuttle services to the cruise port for seamless transfers.
  • Check the cruise departure schedule to align your hotel stay with embarkation time.
  • Factor in traffic conditions when planning your arrival time at the hotel.
  • Arriving early minimizes stress and ensures a hassle-free start to your cruise adventure.

Accommodation Proximity Check

After ensuring a smooth arrival at your Galveston hotel in preparation for your cruise departure, the next crucial step is checking the proximity of accommodations to the cruise port for convenient transportation. When selecting a hotel, prioritize ones near the cruise port to minimize travel time on the day of your departure. Look for options that offer shuttle services to the port, eliminating the stress of parking and traffic. Staying close to the cruise port not only saves time but also reduces pre-departure anxiety. Efficient and reliable transportation to the Galveston cruise terminal can significantly enhance your overall cruise experience. Consider the following hotels known for their convenient proximity to the cruise port and shuttle services:

Alternative Transportation Options Near Cruise Ports

exploring transportation by sea

Navigating the area around cruise ports for alternative transportation options can be simplified by considering taxis, rideshare services, hotel shuttles, private car services, and public transportation.

  • Taxis : Convenient for quick trips to the port, offering a door-to-door service for travelers.
  • Rideshare services : Options like Uber or Lyft provide flexibility and ease of booking for passengers.
  • Hotel shuttles : Some hotels provide complimentary shuttle services to the cruise port, ensuring a seamless transition for guests.
  • Private car services : Ideal for those seeking a more personalized and private transport experience.
  • Public transportation : Buses or shuttles near cruise ports offer budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the area.

These various transportation alternatives cater to different preferences, budgets, and travel styles, ensuring that passengers have the freedom to choose the option that best suits their needs when heading to or from the port of Galveston.

Making the Most of Your Cruise Experience

enhancing cruise vacation experience

Let's talk about how to maximize your cruise adventure!

From convenient port shuttle options provided by Galveston hotels to the perks of a pre-cruise hotel stay, there are ways to enhance your experience.

After your cruise, consider exploring the vibrant city of Galveston to extend the magic of your journey.

Port Shuttle Options

To fully maximize your cruise experience, take advantage of the convenient port shuttle options offered by select hotels in Galveston. These shuttle services provided by hotels near the cruise terminals offer a stress-free way for passengers to reach their ships from their accommodations.

Hotels such as The San Luis Resort, Moody Gardens Hotel, and DoubleTree by Hilton Galveston Beach are among those that provide reliable shuttle services. By utilizing these shuttle options, cruise passengers can simplify their transportation logistics and enjoy a comfortable journey to the port.

Sit back, relax, and let the shuttle take you seamlessly from your hotel to the cruise terminal for a hassle-free start to your cruise adventure.

  • Shuttle services offered by select hotels near the cruise terminals
  • Stress-free transportation from accommodations to cruise ships
  • The San Luis Resort, Moody Gardens Hotel, and DoubleTree by Hilton Galveston Beach provide shuttle services
  • Simplification of transportation logistics for cruise passengers
  • Comfortable and convenient shuttle transfers for a relaxed journey to the port

Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay

Maximizing your cruise experience begins with securing a comfortable and convenient pre-cruise hotel stay in Galveston. When selecting a hotel for your pre-cruise stay, consider the ones that offer free shuttle services to the cruise port.

These shuttles not only provide added convenience but also help you reach the cruise terminal on time without the stress of parking. Some hotels even include shuttle services as part of their package deals, saving you money on parking fees.

To ensure a smooth pre-cruise experience, it's essential to confirm the shuttle's availability and schedule directly with the hotel. By choosing a hotel with complimentary shuttle services, you can kick off your cruise adventure with ease and relaxation, leaving the worries behind.

Post-Cruise City Exploration

Immerse ourselves in the vibrant city of Galveston post-cruise to fully experience all it has to offer. After disembarking, take advantage of the convenient proximity of downtown Galveston hotels to the cruise port. Here are some ways to make the most of your post-cruise exploration:

  • Explore the charming historic district with its unique architecture and cultural heritage.
  • Visit local restaurants to savor the flavors of Galveston's diverse cuisine.
  • Wander through museums, galleries, and waterfront attractions near the cruise port.
  • Immerse yourself in the rich history of the area through guided tours or self-exploration.
  • Enjoy leisurely strolls through the streets lined with boutiques and cafes, soaking in the relaxed coastal vibe of Galveston.

Is Uber Allowed at Galveston Port?

Yes, Uber is allowed at the Galveston Port for drop-offs and pick-ups. Passengers can easily request rides to and from the port terminals. Uber offers a convenient, cost-effective, and efficient transportation option for cruise passengers in Galveston.

Does Moody Gardens Have a Shuttle to Cruise Port?

Absolutely, Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston does provide a convenient shuttle service to the cruise port! It's a stress-free way for us to get to our cruise terminal hassle-free. Contact the hotel directly for more details.

How Do I Get to the Cruise Ship in Galveston?

To get to the cruise ship in Galveston, we recommend utilizing major highways like Interstate 10, Highway 146, and Interstate 45. Various hotels near the port offer convenient shuttle services and cruise parking options for stress-free embarkation.

Is There a Shuttle From Houston Airport to Galveston Cruise Port?

Yes, there is a shuttle from Houston airports to Galveston cruise port. Several companies offer shared and private shuttle options for the 70-80 mile journey. Booking in advance ensures availability for a seamless transfer.

So, why stress about transportation when you can enjoy a seamless pre-cruise stay at a Galveston hotel with convenient port shuttles?

With options like Hilton Galveston Island Resort and The Tremont House offering hassle-free transfers, you can focus on relaxing and getting ready for your cruise adventure.

Don't miss out on the convenience and ease of booking a hotel with cruise port transportation – your vacation starts as soon as you arrive!

Getting to Port Everglades: Easy Transportation Options Explained

Arriving at Port Everglades is a breeze with a plethora of transportation choices – discover the most convenient option for your next cruise adventure!

navigating transportation to port

Arriving at Port Everglades could be more straightforward than you expect, given the plethora of travel methods available. Whether it’s the ease of hailing an Uber or the dependability of hotel shuttle services, there’s a variety of transport choices designed to meet the requirements of any visitor.

But before we delve into the specifics, let's explore the most efficient ways to navigate from nearby airports and accommodations to ensure a seamless journey to one of Florida's premier cruise ports.

  • Various transportation options from Fort Lauderdale and Miami airports cater to different budgets.
  • Hotel shuttles provide cost-effective, stress-free transportation to Port Everglades.
  • Nearby attractions offer entertainment options for visitors near the port.
  • Consider traffic conditions and use hotel shuttles for a smooth journey to Port Everglades.

Fort Lauderdale Airport Transportation Options

When arriving at Fort Lauderdale Airport, travelers have a variety of convenient transportation options available to reach Port Everglades.

Uber and Lyft rides to the cruise port typically cost around $20, offering an affordable and hassle-free option. Taxis are also readily available, with fares ranging between $18-21 for a quick and direct transfer.

For those staying at hotels near Fort Lauderdale Airport, shuttle services to Port Everglades are often provided, ensuring a seamless journey to the cruise port. Independent shuttle services from the airport start at $25 per person one-way, giving travelers additional transportation choices tailored to their needs.

While cruise line shuttles are an option, they may come at a higher price compared to other available modes of transportation. Whether opting for the convenience of ride-sharing services, the reliability of taxis, the ease of hotel shuttles, or the flexibility of independent shuttles, travelers departing from Fort Lauderdale Airport have a range of transportation options to choose from when heading to Port Everglades.

Miami Airport Transportation Choices

transportation options at mia

Travelers departing from Miami Airport can choose from various transportation options to reach Port Everglades, including Uber, taxis, independent shuttles, cruise line transfers, and the Tri-Rail commuter train. Here is a breakdown of these options:

The distance between Miami Airport and Port Everglades is approximately 30 miles. Uber and taxis offer the flexibility of direct transportation but can be pricier. Independent shuttles are a more budget-friendly option, while cruise line transfers provide convenience for cruise passengers. The Tri-Rail commuter train offers a cost-effective choice, allowing travelers to avoid traffic conditions and enjoy a scenic journey to their destination. Choose the option that best fits your budget and preferences for a seamless transfer from Miami Airport to Port Everglades.

Getting to Port Everglades From Downtown

From downtown Fort Lauderdale, travelers have multiple convenient and cost-effective transportation options to reach Port Everglades, located approximately 4.5 miles away.

  • Taxi Rides:

Taxis are readily available and offer a direct route to Port Everglades. The cost typically ranges from $15 to $20, providing a quick and hassle-free journey.

  • Uber or Lyft Services:

For those seeking a more personalized ride, Uber and Lyft services operate in the area and offer a flexible and on-demand option to get to the port from downtown Fort Lauderdale.

  • Shuttle Services:

Many downtown hotels provide shuttle services to Port Everglades, making it a convenient and economical choice for travelers with luggage or those looking for a seamless transition to the port.

  • Traffic Considerations:

The drive from downtown Fort Lauderdale to Port Everglades usually takes about 15 minutes. However, traffic conditions can impact travel time, so it's advisable to plan accordingly to ensure a timely arrival at the port.

Cruise Port Hotels and Shuttles

convenient accommodations near port

Many Port Everglades hotels conveniently offer shuttle services to the cruise port and airport, providing guests with a seamless transportation option. These hotel shuttle services, such as those offered by Crowne Plaza, Four Points by Sheraton, and Embassy Suites, are a cost-effective way for travelers to move between the airport, Fort Lauderdale hotels, and the cruise port.

By utilizing these free or low-cost shuttle options, guests can avoid parking fees, as well as the stress of navigating traffic near Port Everglades. The convenience of door-to-door transportation provided by hotel shuttles ensures a smooth travel experience for visitors in the area. Whether arriving at the airport or staying at a hotel nearby, guests can rely on the efficient shuttle services to transport them to their desired destinations without any hassle.

When looking for convenient and budget-friendly transportation options, exploring the shuttle services offered by Port Everglades hotels is a practical choice for individuals seeking a stress-free journey.

Exploring Near Port Everglades

Nestled near Port Everglades, a myriad of attractions awaits visitors eager to explore the vibrant surroundings. Here are some exciting options to consider:

  • Seminole Hard Rock Casino : For those seeking entertainment and gaming options, the Seminole Hard Rock Casino is a must-visit destination near the port.
  • Las Olas Beach : Just a short distance away, Las Olas Beach beckons with its picturesque shores, offering a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the ocean.
  • Water Taxi Tour : Experience Fort Lauderdale's waterways and scenic views around Port Everglades with a delightful water taxi tour, providing a unique perspective of the area.
  • Las Olas Boulevard : Indulge in vibrant dining, shopping, and entertainment options along Las Olas Boulevard, a popular hotspot near the port for a fulfilling experience.

Whether you choose to bask in the sun at Las Olas Beach, try your luck at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino, or explore the bustling Las Olas Boulevard, there's something for everyone near Port Everglades.

Can You Take an Uber to Port Everglades?

Yes, we can take an Uber to Port Everglades. It's a convenient, cost-effective option for small groups, offering a direct and efficient ride from Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood or Miami International Airport. Arriving at the cruise terminal hassle-free makes for a great start to our vacation.

How Much Is a Taxi From FLL to Port Everglades?

Sure thing! A taxi from FLL to Port Everglades costs about $16.50 for four of us, tip included. At roughly $4.13 per person, it's a quick 10-minute ride for hassle-free, door-to-door service.

Are There Shuttles From FLL to Port Everglades?

Yes, there are shuttles available from FLL to Port Everglades. Options like Port Everglades Shuttle, Super Shuttle, Miami Airport Shuttle, and Metro Shuttle Service offer affordable and convenient transportation for those traveling between the airport and the port.

How Much Is Uber From Fort Lauderdale Airport to Port Everglades?

Uber from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Port Everglades costs around $15 for a car accommodating four people. It's a convenient, reliable, and cost-effective option. Choosing Uber helps us save time and money while ensuring a hassle-free transfer to the cruise port.

In conclusion, getting to Port Everglades is a breeze with a variety of transportation options at your disposal. Whether flying into Fort Lauderdale or Miami, travelers can easily reach the port via Uber, taxis, shuttles, or private transportation services.

With a smooth journey ahead, you'll be sailing off on your cruise adventure in no time. So hop on board and let the transportation options steer you in the right direction!

Affiliate disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

carnival freedom fire incident

Harmony of the Seas Collides With Dock in Jamaica: What Happened?

puerto pe asco cruise port

Hidden Gem: Puerto Peñasco – Your Perfect Cruise Port Unveiled

An image showcasing a vibrant poolside scene on a Princess Cruise ship, with guests enjoying a refreshing array of drinks

What Drinks Can You Bring On Princess Cruise

An image depicting a luxurious Celebrity Cruise Ship emerging from a shimmering ocean backdrop, showcasing its newly refurbished exterior with pristine decks, modernized amenities, and gleaming glass panels

Which Celebrity Cruise Ships Have Been Refurbished

An image showcasing the Tesla Model 3 dashboard with a driver's hand gently gripping the steering wheel

How To Turn On Cruise Control Tesla Model 3

An image showcasing a close-up of a Tesla Model Y's steering wheel, with the driver's hand lightly resting on it

How To Set Cruise Control Tesla Model Y

An image of a serene ocean expanse, showcasing a luxurious cruise ship gliding past vibrant pink and orange skies at sunset

What Is The Weather Like On A Transatlantic Cruise In April

An image showcasing the evolution of Azamara Onward: Start with a vintage shipyard, then transform it into a luxurious modern vessel through a mesmerizing sequence of construction, renovation, and futuristic upgrades

Azamara Onward: Origins, Renovation, and Future Plans

An image capturing Anthony Bourdain's magnetic presence: a vivid montage of his fearless culinary exploration, showcased through a collage of exotic foods, bustling street markets, and diverse cultures, all reflecting his global influence

Anthony Bourdain: Unconventional Culinary Icon and Global Influencer

An image capturing the majesty of an Arctic adventure aboard Le Commandant Charcot, showcasing untouched icy landscapes, towering glaciers, and a luxurious ship voyaging through pristine waters beneath a vivid sky

Arctic Adventure: Uncharted Destinations With Le Commandant Charcot

An image showcasing a grand cruise ship at sunset, with the majestic Atlas Ocean Voyages logo displayed prominently on its hull, symbolizing the beginning of an exciting new chapter in world travel

Atlas Ocean Voyages Welcomes World Traveller: A New Chapter Begins!

An image showcasing a lavish cruise ship deck with elegant loungers, sparkling infinity pools, attentive staff serving exotic cocktails, and a backdrop of stunning ports of call, inviting readers to ponder the value of luxury cruises

Are Luxury Cruises Worth the Price? Comparing Amenities, Staff Services, Gratuities, Beverages, Dining, Itineraries, Shore Excursions, and Special Memories

An image showcasing a vibrant poolside scene on a Princess Cruise ship, with guests enjoying a refreshing array of drinks

How To Check Weather For A Cruise

An image showcasing a serene water taxi journey from the iconic canals of Venice, passing through picturesque lagoons, and arriving at the vibrant Chioggia Cruise Terminal, surrounded by colorful sailboats and a bustling waterfront promenade

How To Get From Venice To Chioggia Cruise Terminal

An image showcasing a sun-kissed deck overlooking a pristine infinity pool, adorned with colorful beach towels

How Do You Qualify For An Ultra Cruise On Carnival

TheFW

If You Hear Code Bravo on a Cruise Ship, You Better Have an Escape Plan

Cruises are supposed to be relaxing (with the exception of overeating at the midnight buffet).

There also was that one time my wife and I were on a ship that smelled like sewage the entire time. I'll just assume that was an isolated incident.

The point is you're on a cruise to escape the stresses of everyday life. You're surrounded by fun activities, fruity drinks and what seems like a never-ending bounty of food.

The cruise line at least wants you to believe this. That's why they have a secret codes for emergency announcements that their guests often miss.

Secret Codes On Cruise Ships

If you've ever been on a cruise, you probably participated in what is known as a muster drill. The mandatory safety exercise is held for all passengers before the ship leaves port.

It may seem like a hassle, but it's also good to know in case something awful happens while you're floating in the middle of the ocean.

More times than not, this is the only time there is any hint that something could possible go wrong on your cruise. That's unless you are listening closely to the cruise line's announcements and know their secret code.

Industry website CruiseHive.com  says the meaning behind the codes can change depending on the cruise line. Common codes include:

  • Echo (high winds)
  • Oscar (someone has gone overboard)
  • PVI (vomit in public area)
  • Zulu (Fight on the ship)

One code, however, is of great concern no matter what cruise line you're on.

What Code Bravo Means On A Cruise Line

Code Bravo has two rather serious meanings regardless of the company behind the cruise.

The Telegraph says hearing "Bravo" on a cruise could mean either a fire or another disturbance on the ship, such as pirates.

A viral TikTok video posted earlier this month claimed a Code Bravo was announced on a recent cruise for a threat of pirates. The authenticity of the video has been questioned due to its lack of footage showing a potential threat.

Outsiders boarding the ship is actually fairly rare according to CruiseCritic.com. The website says there have been less than 10 reported incidents of pirates attacking cruise ships in the past decade.

See Inside Jimmy Buffett's Staggering $6.9 Million Palm Beach Mansion

Gallery Credit: Sterling Whitaker

Margaritaville House Is Fitting Tribute To The Late Jimmy Buffett

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

25 True Crime Locations: What Do They Look Like Today?

More from thefw.

Every Sneaky Place Your Favorite AirBnB is Allowed to Hide a Camera

code 5 on cruise ship

Cruise ship lawyer shares the one 'secret' code word you never want to hear on a ship

It gets called a few times a month..

cruise ship, ship codes, man overbaord

A beautiful cruise ship crossing the seas.

Going on a cruise can be an incredible getaway from the stresses of life on the mainland. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t an element of danger when living on a ship 200-plus feet high, traveling up to 35 miles per hour and subject to the whims of the sea.

An average of about 19 people go overboard every year, and only around 28% survive. Cruise ship lawyer   Spencer Aronfeld explained the phenomenon in a viral TikTok video, in which he also revealed the secret code the crew uses when tragedy happens.

"Here's a secret most cruise lines don't want you to know," Aronfeld begins his video. "About 1 to 2 passengers a month are reported as missing or, man overboard, major cruise lines." He adds that even though ships have radar systems that can detect when something has fallen off the boat there are a lot of false alarms caused by garbage, luggage and even deckchairs that people have thrown off the ship.

@cruiseshiplawyer #cruiseship #cruisecrew #passenger #cruising #maritime #lawyersoftiktok #lawyer #manoverboard

Further, after someone goes over the rail, the ship continues to move, so it is nearly impossible to find the overboard passenger who is probably seriously injured from the fall. "The truth is that by the time a passenger is reported missing and has gone overboard, there is likely no chance that passenger will survive and no chance that the ship will ever find them," Aronfeld says.

Aronfeld concluded the video by sharing the secret code that cruise lines use when someone has gone overboard. "Code Oscar. Code Oscar. That's how you know that a passenger has been reported as having gone overboard," Aronfeld said.

  • 28-year-old buys cruise ship apartment because it's less than renting and he can see the world ›
  • My family of 5 traveled the U.S. for nearly a year, and it cost us less than staying home ›
  • Man who lives on a cruise ship reveals the biggest threat to passengers and it isn’t icebergs ›

Dogs are naturally driven by a sense of purpose and a need for belonging, which are all part of their instinctual pack behavior. When a dog has a job to do, it taps into its needs for structure, purpose, and the feeling of contributing to its pack, which in a domestic setting translates to its human family.

But let’s be honest: In a traditional domestic setting, dogs have fewer chores they can do as they would on a farm or as part of a rescue unit. A doggy mom in Vancouver Island, Canada had fun with her dog’s purposeful uselessness by sharing the 5 “chores” her pitbull-Lab mix does around the house.

The mom says Rhubarb has chores because “we didn’t raise a freeloader.”

No freeloaders on my watch 🙅🏻‍♀️ 

@rhubarbthedoggo No freeloaders on my watch 🙅🏻‍♀️ #pittiesoftiktok #dogtiktokers #dogsoftiktok #pitbulllove #pibblelove #pibbles #pibblemixesoftiktok #pitbullmix #dogfluencers #doggotiktoker #dogmomsoftiktok #dogmomlife #dogmoms #dogtiktokviral #dogmomma #prettypitty #prettypittie #prettypitties #dogrelatable #relatabledogmom #relatabledog

Here are 5 “chores” that Rhubarb has mastered.

1. Makes sure the laundry doesn't get cold

Translation: Sits on top of the clean laundry, ready to be folded.

2. Unlicensed therapist

Translation: Gives us kisses when we're tired or feeling down.

3. Supervise repairs

Translation: She gets in the way when you're in a compromised, uncomfortable position with a wrench in your hand.

4. Alerts us when there's an intruder

Translation: Stands at the window and barks furiously at the mailman.

5. Keeps mum's spot warm

Translation: Lays in her spot on her favorite chair in the living room.

The video inspired some funny responses in the comments.

“He’s carrying that household on his back. Give him a raise,” Tatiana, Esq. wrote. “Obviously the most valuable member of the household,” DJTrainor51 added.

  • Therapist with ADHD explains how she 'learned to clean as a messy person' ›
  • 32 years separate this before and after of a beautiful Washington forest. Take a look. ›
  • A dad took his daughter on a trip, just the 2 of them, and wrote down what he learned. ›

Kudos to the heroes who had 90 seconds to save lives in the Key Bridge collapse

The loss of 6 lives is tragic, but the dispatch recording shows it could have been so much worse..

The workers who responded to the Dali's mayday call saved lives with their quick response.

As more details of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore emerge, it's becoming more apparent how much worse this catastrophe could have been.

Just minutes before 1:30am on March 26, shortly after leaving port in Baltimore Harbor, a cargo ship named Dali lost power and control of its steering, sending it careening into a structural pillar on Key Bridge. The crew of the Dali issued a mayday call at 1:26am to alert authorities of the power failure, giving responders crucial moments to prepare for a potential collision. Just 90 seconds later, the ship hit a pylon, triggering a total collapse of the 1.6-mile bridge into the Patapsco River.

Dispatch audio of those moments shows the calm professionalism and quick actions that limited the loss of life in an unexpected situation where every second counted.

In the recording of the conversation, we can hear authorities and responders quickly putting out a call to stop traffic onto the bridge and assessing what construction crew might be working on the bridge. No one knew that the entire bridge was going to collapse into the harbor, only that a possibility for collision was present. As one officer plans to drive onto the bridge to alert the construction workers, a voice announces, "The whole bridge just fell down. Start, start whoever, everybody ... the whole bridge just collapsed."

It had to have been surreal to witness the bridge collapsing in its entirety. In the initial news reports it was unclear how much warning had been received, and at first it was feared that passengers traveling across the bridge may have fallen into the water. But as we gained a clearer picture of the moments before the accident, it's clear that the everyday workers in the harbor and the first responders who were nearby to receive instruction did everything they could, and their calm professionalism and quick actions saved lives.

As we go about our daily lives, it's easy to forget that there are countless workers who are chugging away behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly. Our systems of transportation, our supply chains, the safety of our roads and bridges—all of these things require people to be on the job, doing what needs to be done, establishing, maintaining and following protocols that keep all the moving parts harmonized. When it's done well, we don't even notice it—their work becomes invisible.

But when something goes wrong, when a wrench gets thrown into the system—like a massive, unsteerable cargo ship about to crash into a bridge—we see how valuable those systems are and how regulation and oversight of such systems is so important.

2/ Police dispatched with just a few crisp phrases\u2014ship has lost steering, close the bridge to traffic\u2014and race to do just that.\n\nNo time for confusion. No time for \u2026 \u2018What do you mean, close the bridge? Who says?\u2019\n\n4 minutes, alert to collapse.\n\nBridge successfully closed\u2026\n\n\u2014> — (@)

As Charles Fishman pointed out on X , "A system worked—a government system. All those people just ordinary frontline workers in anonymous, sometimes invisible jobs. Maritime radio operators. Police/fire dispatchers. Bridge police & state police. All working 11p to 7a o’night shift."

"All day, every day—that happens & we don’t see it," he added.

Of course, the construction crew members who lost their lives, along with the two crew who were rescued from the water, will be remembered as biggest loss as the daunting bridge rebuilding process gets underway. The Key Bridge collapse is an unfathomable tragedy, but one that could have been even more tragic had it not been for the systems and people working as they're supposed to. Kudos to those life-saving heroes.

  • Unsung Dutchman who saved as many as 10,000 Jews during the Holocaust is finally getting his due ›
  • Georgia teens are being hailed as heroes after rescuing woman trapped in car ›
  • In the midst of tragedy, the everyday heroes in Ukraine are moving people around the world ›

Doctor destroys the myth about 'clear pee' that just about everyone believes

This may change how much water you drink..

A woman looking at her phone while sitting on the toilet.

One of the most popular health trends over the last few years has been staying as hydrated as possible, evidenced by the massive popularity of 40-oz Stanely Quencher cups . The theory among those who obsess over hydration is that, when you pee clear , you’ve removed all the waste in your body and are enjoying the incredible benefits of being 100% hydrated. Congratulations.

However, according to Dr. Sermed Mezher , an NHS doctor in the UK, peeing clear isn’t always a sign of being healthy.

“If you’re peeing clear, that means you’re having more than 2.5 liters (85 ounces) of fluid per day, which means your kidneys are working overdrive to keep that water off your brain,” Dr. Mezher said. He goes on to add that when kidneys can't keep up with their water intake, it can cause water intoxication, which can lead to dangerous, even lethal, brain swelling.

Stop Trying to Get Your Pee Completely Clear #hydration. 

@drsermedmezher Stop Trying to Get Your Pee Completely Clear #hydration. The daily water intake recommendation for adults is crucial for maintaining proper hydration levels, which are essential for overall health and well-being. While there is a common guideline suggesting eight glasses of water per day, equivalent to around 2 liters or 64 ounces, individual hydration needs can vary based on several factors. Age, weight, activity level, and even climate all play roles in determining the appropriate amount of water intake. For instance, someone who exercises regularly or lives in a hot, humid climate may need to consume more water to replenish fluids lost through sweat. Listening to the body's thirst cues is also important in determining hydration needs. Thirst is the body's way of signaling that it needs more fluids. However, it's worth noting that by the time you feel thirsty, you may already be mildly dehydrated. Therefore, it's beneficial to drink water regularly throughout the day, even when not feeling thirsty, to maintain adequate hydration levels. In addition to water, other beverages such as herbal teas, fruit-infused water, and low-sugar electrolyte drinks can contribute to overall fluid intake. However, it's essential to be mindful of the sugar and caffeine content in some beverages, as excessive consumption of these substances can have adverse effects on hydration levels and overall health. Certain factors can increase the need for hydration beyond the standard recommendation. For example, individuals who engage in intense physical activity or exercise may lose significant amounts of fluids through sweat and increased respiration. In such cases, it's essential to drink water before, during, and after exercise to prevent dehydration and maintain performance levels. #kidneys #water

According to Dr. Mezher, it's all about finding balance when it comes to hydration and the goal shouldn't be to pee clear all the time. "Of course, like most things in life, too much is not great, and too little isn't either," he continued. Two liters (68 ounces) [of water] is good for a healthy adult, and babies under six months shouldn't be given any water at all."

The news came as a bit of a shock to some folks in the comments. "One minute it's not enough water, the next it's too much... I'm tired," Tiyana wrote. "I always thought the goal was clear," Mountain Witch added.

If you have concerns about the color of your urine, please consult a doctor.

  • A dad dressed as Darth Vader to wake up his son. The kid's reaction is pure 'Star Wars.' ›
  • Doctor's alcohol tip that 'could save your life' goes viral on TikTok ›
  • Nine things new parents think they need and the more practical alternatives. ›

Yale's pep band had to miss the NCAA tournament. University of Idaho said, 'We got you.'

In an act of true sportsmanship, the vandal band learned yale's fight song, wore their gear and cheered them on..

The Idaho Vandals answered the call when Yale needed a pep band.

Yale University and the University of Idaho could not be more different. Ivy League vs. state school. East Coast vs. Pacific Northwest. City vs. farm town. But in the first two rounds of the NCAA basketball tournament , extenuating circumstances brought them together as one, with the Bulldogs and the Vandals becoming the "Vandogs" for a weekend.

When Yale made it to the March Madness tournament, members of the school's pep band had already committed to other travel plans during spring break. They couldn't gather enough members to make the trek across the country to Spokane, Washington, so the Yale Bulldogs were left without their fight song unless other arrangements could be made.

When University of Idaho athletic band director Spencer Martin got wind of the need l ess than a week before Yale's game against Auburn, he sent out a message to his band members asking if anyone would be interested in stepping in. The response was a wave of immediate yeses, so Martin got to work arranging instruments and the students dedicated themselves to learning Yale's fight song and other traditional Yale pep songs.

Idaho band members even reached out to Yale band members via social media to get tips and asked the spirit squad for suggestions for making their "Vandogs" performance the best it could be. Yale also sent spirit gear with the big yellow Y for Yale for them to wear.

The Idaho Vandals called themselves the "Vandogs" for two NCAA tournament games.

Courtesy of University of Idaho

“Everyone was really enthusiastic about covering for the Yale students who couldn’t make it,” Martin told the Yale Daily News. “Universities help universities, and bands help bands.”

That genuine act of sportsmanship and camaraderie touched people across the nation, much to the delight of the students.

“'Look Mom, I’m on ESPN,’” Martin told The Spokesman-Review , quoting his students. “You’re a farm kid in the middle of a farm town. How often do you get that? Never.”

And people loved seeing it as well.

" Kudos to the University of Idaho band! Band kids are the greatest!" wrote one commenter.

"Awesome job Idaho..this is a perfect example of true sportsmanship!!" shared another.

👍

It's hard not to catch the energy of the tournament, as the Vandogs found out.

"It was awesome watching them play," Idaho grad student Cody Barrick, who plays the tenor saxophone, told ESPN. "We were right on our feet with everyone else at the end there cheering them on for sure."

And as it turned out, the pep in Yale's step did seem to be extra "on" during that first game. The Bulldogs went into the tournament as an underdog, with #4 Auburn being their first competitor, but they pulled off a dramatic upset that moved them to the next round.

So not only did Idaho's band play for them that first Friday game, but they also drove the 90 miles to Spokane again the following Sunday night for Yale's second round game against San Diego State.

The Bulldogs were eliminated from the tournament in that game, but memories were made for life. And Martin says the Vandals would do it anytime, for any school, a testament to the program.

“If you choose the Vandal band, you know that it’s going to come through,” he told the Spokesman-Review. “It always has. That’s the tradition. There was no doubt that we would come through for them.”

  • US players comforting Iranian opponents after their World Cup match is humanity at its best ›
  • Kids reveal the best things parents can say to them at their sporting events. ›
  • These two high-school football players are going viral for praying together after a game ›

Ever wonder why people 100 years ago died so much younger? It's these 14 reasons.

1796. that's when we invented vaccines..

An English doctor named Edward Jenner took incredible risks to try to rid his world of smallpox. Because of his efforts and the efforts of scientists like him, the only thing between deadly diseases like the ones below and extinction are people who refuse to vaccinate their kids. Don't be that parent.

Unfortunately, because of the misinformation from the anti-vaccination movement, some of these diseases have trended up in a really bad way over the past several years.

Wellness involves a lot of personal choices and the tradeoff between personal liberty and shared public good.

Measles is the starkest example. There were about 61 cases of measles in all of 2012, but in just the first seven months of 2014, there have been nearly 600 .

As this chart shows, vaccinations are not like taxes rates or even freedom of speech. The impact of one's personal health choices can have a significant impact on the population around them, in their communities and even on a national level. It makes that trade-off all the more complicated and one not easily distilled into one convenient political or religious ideology.

assets.rebelmouse.io

Obviously, the topic of vaccinations has become immensely more complicated since the onset of COVID-19 in 2020. But history teaches us valuable lessons and information is power. No matter how you feel about vaccines today, this chart is a reminder that medical science can be used for incredible good. Without breakthrough vaccinations in the past, many of us would likely not be here to have the debate about our personal choices now and into the future.

This article originally appeared on 11.21.14 and t his infographic is based on data from 2012.

  • The reassuring math explaining COVID hospitalization percentages for vaccinated people ›
  • Over half of adults unvaccinated for COVID-19 fear needles. Here’s what’s proven to help. ›
  • We asked three people about how vaccines have impacted their lives. Here’s what they said. ›

A student accidentally created a rechargeable battery that could last 400 years

"this thing has been cycling 10,000 cycles and it’s still going.", there's an old saying that luck happens when preparation meets opportunity..

There's no better example of that than a 2016 discovery at the University of California, Irvine, by doctoral student Mya Le Thai. After playing around in the lab, she made a discovery that could lead to a rechargeable battery that could last up to 400 years. That means longer-lasting laptops and smartphones and fewer lithium ion batteries piling up in landfills.

A team of researchers at UCI had been experimenting with nanowires for potential use in batteries, but found that over time the thin, fragile wires would break down and crack after too many charging cycles. A charge cycle is when a battery goes from completely full to completely empty and back to full again.

But one day, on a whim, Thai coated a set of gold nanowires in manganese dioxide and a Plexiglas-like electrolyte gel.

"She started to cycle these gel capacitors, and that's when we got the surprise," said Reginald Penner, chair of the university's chemistry department . "She said, 'this thing has been cycling 10,000 cycles and it's still going.' She came back a few days later and said 'it's been cycling for 30,000 cycles.' That kept going on for a month."

This discovery is mind-blowing because the average laptop battery lasts 300 to 500 charge cycles. The nanobattery developed at UCI made it though 200,000 cycles in three months. That would extend the life of the average laptop battery by about 400 years. The rest of the device would have probably gone kaput decades before the battery, but the implications for a battery that that lasts hundreds of years are pretty startling.

"The big picture is that there may be a very simple way to stabilize nanowires of the type that we studied," Penner said. "If this turns out to be generally true, it would be a great advance for the community." Not bad for just fooling around in the laboratory.

This article originally appeared 12.22.22

  • Trump Administration surprisingly approves the largest solar project in U.S. history ›
  • Absolutely do not change your voicemail greeting if you're lost without service ›
  • Prudential Emerging Visionaries selects winners. - Upworthy ›

A teen student delivered a masterclass on the true history of the Confederate flag

Golden retriever with peak good boy energy can't stop snuggling with strangers on a train, a viral photo of a calm dad and a screaming toddler holds an important parenting lesson, here’s a paycheck for a mcdonald’s worker. and here's my jaw dropping to the floor., mom calls out teacher who gave her son a 'zero' grade for not providing class with supplies, after his daughter was born with the 'wrong' eye and hair color, a dad demanded a dna test.

code 5 on cruise ship

The Secret Code Word You Should Be Horrified To Hear On A Cruise Ship

Cruise ship on the water

When traveling by plane, you might notice mysterious code words used by flight attendants . Cruise ship crews, too, use code words to relay important messages, though they're often not the same ones you might hear uttered at 30,000 feet in the sky. Case in point: code Oscar.

According to Spencer Aronfeld, a lawyer who specializes in cruise ship lawsuits, the phrase "code Oscar" has a dark meaning that's unique to ships. Aronfeld explained in a TikTok video, "If you're on a cruise and you hear the code announced 'code Oscar, code Oscar,' that's how you know that a passenger's been reported as having gone overboard." Alternatively, you may hear the term "Mr. Mob," which stands for "man overboard."

The lawyer did note that some reports of people falling off cruise ships are false alarms triggered when the ship's radars and cameras spot an object, such as litter or a lounge chair. Still, a true "code Oscar" situation can occur and isn't as rare as you might assume.

Hundreds have fallen from cruise ships

@cruiseshiplawyer #cruiseship #cruisecrew #passenger #cruising #maritime #lawyersoftiktok #lawyer #manoverboard ♬ tropical reggae BGM no melody - yo suzuki(akisai)

In his TikTok clip, Spencer Aronfeld claims that code Oscar accidents happen every month on cruise ships, and once someone has gone over the railing, there's little chance of saving them. More concrete statistics were published in a report by G. P. Wild (International) Limited for the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA): Between 2009 and 2019, 212 cases of passengers going overboard were identified. Of those, 48 passengers were rescued. That comes out to, on average, over 21 overboards per year and a 23% survival rate.

However, as most who have cruised before know, it's not that easy to fall off. It's highly unlikely for a cruise to tip over , and tall railings are placed throughout the decks to prevent accidental falls. Brian Salerno, the senior vice president for maritime policy at the CLIA, told The New York Times , "The vast majority of cases are either reckless behavior or some form of intentional act." Salerno added, "People don't just inadvertently fall over the side of a ship." According to the article, drunkenness is often to blame, as is simply climbing on a ledge or leaning a little too far over a balcony railing. Sadly, some passengers also plunge into the water of their own volition.

What happens if someone falls overboard?

When a passenger falls off a cruise ship, the crew should be immediately notified by the vessel's radars, triggering the "code Oscar" alert. However, this doesn't always happen, depending on the ship's technology. In 2016, a woman fell from a cruise ship pool deck in the middle of the night, and though a camera captured her fall, the footage allegedly wasn't viewed until the next day, after her friends reported her missing to the crew.

If the cruise staff are alerted of the fall when it occurs, however, you'll likely hear an emergency announcement and notice crew members springing to action. The ship may turn back in an attempt to find the fallen passenger, and the cruise workers will likely use searchlights to scan the water. Dr. Simon Boxall, an oceanographer at the University of Southampton, told The Telegraph that what happens in the seconds following the fall usually determines the cruiser's chances of survival. "If you fall from a great height, not only do you risk breaking a limb as you hit the water, but it will knock all the air out of you and you can drown very quickly," he explained.

If you see someone fall overboard on your cruise, or if you notice a passenger behaving recklessly around the ship's railings, say something. Call for help and notify a cruise employee right away to help prevent the unthinkable.

Cruise Ship Etiquette: What’s the Dress Code These Days?

By Scott Laird

cruise ship restaurant

Dress codes have been part of cruising from nearly the beginning. On the old TV series The Love Boat , turning out in formal evening attire was all part of the fun of a vacation at sea. Days were casual and carefree, but come nighttime, guests’ outfits were glamorous and sophisticated. The less-discussed part was that the dress code served as a functional barrier to entry—you needed formalwear to go and enjoy the full experience.

Today, most cruise lines have relaxed their dress codes slightly—almost none of them require black-tie attire (even on “formal nights”), but the notion that cruises are dressy is still something of a damper on interest in cruises. As a former travel agent—albeit now some years ago—I often struggled to sell cruises to clients who had never been on one. “I don’t like to dress up,” they’d say.

At the time—it was the early 2000s—cruise lines were still generally adhering to dress codes more rigidly, and that was a turnoff for some travelers. Celebrity Cruises even went so far as to serve the full dining room menu in a cordoned off portion of the buffet to passengers who still wanted to “dine out” on formal nights, but didn’t want to adhere to the dress code for that evening. Cruise lines have since evolved—here’s what you should know about today’s dress codes.

Policies vary by cruise line, but there are some commonalities across brands. During the day, the basics are near-universal: Unless at a pool bar or pool restaurant, passengers are generally expected to wear a top, bottoms, and footwear while walking around the ship. Swimwear is generally only acceptable at or very near the pool (buffet restaurants are usually quite near pools, and generally allow dry swimwear or swimwear with a cover up ).

At dinner, particularly in the main and specialty restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and theater, most cruise lines prefer a dressier look for men, requesting passengers refrain from wearing shorts, sleeveless T-shirts, flip-flops, and baseball caps. Interestingly, many do not publish specific requirements for women, although it can be assumed the same attire for women is also discouraged. A good rule of thumb for cruisers is to always pack at least one pair of long pants that are not jeans, for dinners onboard.

As far as dress prohibitions, cruise lines tend to follow policies similar to airlines, disallowing guests from wearing clothing bearing messages that are distasteful or patently offensive.

Formal nights

Most cruise lines will host formal nights at least once on a weeklong voyage. In the past, this would have meant black tie, but today the expectations are generally more relaxed. Many cruise lines have even stopped using the word “formal” to describe these evenings because of the implication of formalwear —nowadays, that’s almost never the case.

Celebrity Cruises has certain evenings designated as “evening chic,” where many passengers will dress more formally (think casual-wedding attire, or what you’d wear to dinner at a nice restaurant), but Celebrity notes that on these evenings “smart casual” is still acceptable in restaurants and the theater. Holland America Line requires collared shirts and slacks on men in “fine dining” restaurants ( i.e. not at the buffet or quick service counters) at minimum on “dressy” nights.

Carnival is similar, requiring dress slacks and dress shorts and suggesting (but not requiring) sport coats on “cruise elegant” evenings, while noting that many men choose to wear a suit and tie or tuxedo. Princess Cruises still uses the “formal night” moniker, suggesting tuxedos or dark suits, gowns, elegant pantsuits, or cocktail dresses. In rather confusing nomenclature, Norwegian refers to its daytime attire as “cruise casual”, and its evening attire as “smart casual,” asking for at least a collared shirt and closed-toed shoes for men.

Cunard is perhaps the most diplomatic cruise line when describing evening attire, saying: “If you want to make an effort in the evening you won’t be alone.” Some evenings are designated “gala evenings,” but Cunard suggests themes like “Roaring 20s,” “Black and White,” or “Red and Gold” rather than publishing outright dress requirements.

Regardless of the cruise line, the fashion choices made on board do tend to be pretty diverse. Outside of the basic requirements (like no shorts at the dinner table), passengers will generally wear what they’re most comfortable in. On some gala evenings on a Cunard Transatlantic crossing I was on, I saw several passengers wearing white-tie complete with tails (I spotted more than one top hat that same evening), while another passenger at an adjacent table looked utterly comfortable in an untucked button down shirt with slacks.

Which cruise line has the most relaxed dress code?

Most expedition cruises like Lindblad and Hurtigruten have no expectation of formal (or even particularly elegant) dress, due to the active nature of those sailings. Some cruise lines, like Windstar, have also done away with formal dress codes, as do specialty sailings like the combination passenger/freight Aranui Cruises in Tahiti. Viking Ocean Cruises also eschews formal nights, but requests no jeans at dinner.

Virgin Voyages has perhaps the most liberal policy of the big ship cruise lines, saying, “We encourage you to wear more than a bathing suit if you go to a restaurant and kindly consider shoes, but your style is your style.”

Alternative options to dressing up

Don’t let a dress code scare you off cruising, even if you’re traveling on a line that hosts formal nights. Most cruise lines have relaxed their policies enough so that most travelers will be able to attend a formal night with the clothes they keep in their closet at home—even if it’s a simple request for a collared shirt and a prohibition on jeans at dinner.

Really want to avoid the fancy dress? Remember there’s always the buffet, and room service—casual dressers always have the option to indulge in a night in and wear whatever they please.

Upside Down Pineapple on Cruise Ships – Secret Meaning & Code

upside-down-pineapples-on-a-cruise

Sharing is caring!

While pineapples are a fun tropical symbol, it’s true that there is a potential secret meaning. While pineapple decorations are a symbol of hospitality, upside down pineapples on a cruise likely indicate something different.

Whether it’s an urban myth or a true hidden meaning, cruise passengers will want to be aware of the not-so-secret code of the upside down pineapple.

Whether you’re into the “lifestyle” or not, this is especially helpful for cruisers who enjoy decorating their cruise cabin door or wearing pineapple motif cruise wear.

In this post I share what an upside down pineapple symbolizes (both on land and on a cruise), its origins and answer some frequently asked questions.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

pineapples-on-cruise-cabin-doors

What Does an Upside Down Pineapple Mean On a Cruise Ship?

An upside-down pineapple is a secret code people use to let other cruisers know they are swingers. If you’re not familiar, the swinging “lifestyle” includes engaging in group sexual activities or partner or “wife-swapping”.

The upside-down pineapple symbol might be worn on a t-shirt, swimsuit, tote bag, badge or pin. Placing an upside-down pineapple decoration outside their cruise ship cabin door can be an invitation to join a swinger party. The meaning of upside-down pineapples is not limited to cruise ships, and can be seen in communities, resorts, campgrounds and more.

What Are The Origins of the Upside Down Pineapple?

upside-down-pineapple-cake

Pineapples have held various symbolic meanings in different cultures throughout history, often associated with hospitality, prosperity and friendship. So, how did the upside down pineapple come to be?

When it comes to the origin of the upside-down pineapple, there are two different theories behind its history.

Some believe that the upside-down pineapple originated in Hawaii. Hawaii is a state that is known for its pineapple plantations and pineapple upside-down cake.

The upside-down pineapple cake is a delicious dessert and a symbol of hospitality, which is served to guests when they visit.

Europe During the Renaissance Period

Others believe that the upside-down pineapple originated in Europe during the Renaissance period. At the time, the upside-down pineapple was a symbol of welcome.

Over the years, urban legend has it that people began to use an upside down pineapple as a discreet symbol between those who were into a swinger lifestyle.

Even if pineapples are a symbol of welcome and hospitality, the upside-down pineapple has a different meaning today. Since we now have the internet and social media (including Facebook and TikTok), admittedly this is less of a secret as people share their experiences online.

Why is the Upside Down Pineapple Associated with Swinging?

upside-down-pineapples-on-a-cruise

For swingers, pineapples are symbolic of friendship, openness and new connections, which lends itself well to this alternative lifestyle.

Its hard to pinpoint the exact time swingers adopted the upside-down pineapple as a symbol or secret code. However, urban legend has it that swingers have been placing an upside-down pineapple in their grocery shopping carts for years, to let others who were into the lifestyle know.

Nowadays, it is easier than ever for swingers to find like-minded people. If you want to be part of the swinging community, you can join swinger Reddit forums or post a pineapple emoji in a swinger Facebook group.

Another way to identify swingers is if they are wearing upside-down pineapple merchandise. It is common for swingers to wear upside-down pineapple clothing, an upside-down pineapple badge, or other upside-down pineapple signs.

Is Swinging on a Cruise Ship a Big Thing?

Yes and no. Swinging is a big thing on certain cruise ships. In fact, there are “lifestyle cruises” designed for cruise swingers and adult fun. On regular cruises, there may still be open-minded passengers who are open to swinging.

However, the truth is that you won’t likely notice any swinging behavior unless you are looking for it.

To the average person, swingers won’t make their lifestyle choice obvious. In fact, beyond the upside down pineapple, there are more discreet swinger’s symbols. Wearing a toe ring, a black ring on the right hand, a wedding ring on the right hand or a woman wearing an anklet are secret symbols that signify the swinging lifestyle.

While on your cruise vacation, you may also notice an upside down pineapple sticker or pineapple magnets on a cruise cabin door. This can be a secret sign to let other cruise ship passengers know they are welcome to join.

How Often Do You See Upside Down Pineapples on a Cruise Ship?

Unless you’re on a swingers cruise or if you are really looking for them, you won’t see upside-down pineapples very often on a cruise ship. You may see a stateroom door decorated with an upside-down pineapple or pink flamingos . However, it is pretty rare.

There are plenty of other subtle signs swingers use to express their lifestyle. However, the most common symbol is the upside-down pineapple. For the most part, you won’t notice other swingers unless you are looking for them.

Does Clothing With Upside Down Pineapples Mean Someone Is a Swinger?

pineapple-clothing-cruise-ships

Although swingers wear pineapple print clothing, it is possible that someone wears pineapple print clothing without knowing its true meaning. To avoid any awkward interactions, you may want to avoid wearing cruise t-shirts and clothing with pineapples on it.

There is a story of a TikTok user and travel creator named “lindajeanw” who wore matching pineapple bathing suits, along with her husband, while on vacation. She did not know the hidden meaning behind the upside-down pineapple, and she said that people were “extra nice” to them.

It’s important to note that when you see someone wearing pineapple clothing on a cruise vacation, its likely they are not swingers and are not aware of the true meaning of the upside-down pineapple. Since pineapples are tropical fruit, it is very common for them to be featured on vacation attire.

Should I Avoid Wearing Pineapple Printed Clothing?

There is nothing wrong with wearing clothing with a pineapple motif. However, it’s important to understand that some people may make assumptions about you, especially if those pineapples are upside down.

If you’re wearing a t-shirt or a pair of shorts with a small pineapple, most people won’t notice. However, if you’re dressed with pineapple prints all over your outfit, there is a good chance that you will get some funny looks.

Unless you are engaging in swinging, you should avoid clothing with an upside-down pineapple symbol.

Upside Down Pineapple Cruise Shirts

Whether it’s for fun, a joke or a shirt you resonate with, here are some fun upside down pineapple shirts (on Amazon) to wear on a cruise.

Here to Get Nauti’ t-shirt

code 5 on cruise ship

This one’s a little more sutble…

Vacay Mode t-shirt

code 5 on cruise ship

What Happens on a Cruise T-shirt

code 5 on cruise ship

How to Connect With Swingers on a Cruise

If you are looking to partner swap on a cruise, there are Facebook groups and forums on Reddit to connect with other swingers on your particular cruise sailing. If there are a lot of swingers on the same sailing, there may be a swinger party for open-minded couples to meet.

Another way to meet like-minded cruise passengers is to wear an upside-down pineapple shirt. The upside-down pineapple is a code that tells other swingers that you are open to sharing.

The Upside-Down Pineapple Trick

upside down pineapple trick on cruise ship

The upside-down pineapple trick is a prank people may play on others by turning pineapple decorations or other objects upside down on their doors.

While this can definitely be a funny joke, especially if you’re cruising with friends, it might lead to some potentially awkward moments as well.

To do the upside-down pineapple trick, you’ll have to purchase pineapple magnets, door decorations or a sticker. When your friend is in their stateroom, you will put the magnet or sticker on their door.

If it’s your friend’s first cruise, they most likely won’t know what the upside-down pineapple signifies, so that they won’t question it. After a few days, you can tell your friend what it means, or you can wait for them to receive a friendly knock on the door!

Another variation of this prank is to purchase your friend a pineapple t-shirt for the cruise vacation. While your friend is wearing the T-shirt, there is a good chance they will get some funny looks.

These pranks are probably harmless, and can be a great way to have some fun on your cruise holiday. However, do use your judgement, so as not to cause offense or distress unintentionally.

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

code 5 on cruise ship

How Do Cruise Ship Swingers Identify Themselves?

The upside-down pineapple is the unofficial symbol swingers use as a secret way to identify themselves to other swingers on a cruise ship. If you see an upside-down pineapple on clothing, a cruise ship door, or accessories, there is a good chance it’s a swinger.

Although it’s not super common, swinging still occurs on cruise ships. There are Facebook groups and Reddit forums where swingers will arrange a private swinging party before their cruise ship sailing.

This way, it’s easier to meet up with like-minded people once they are onboard the cruise ship.

Other Symbols Swingers Use To Identify Themselves:

In recent years, the upside-down pineapple became a very popular and well known symbol. These days, many cruisers understand its true meaning.

Since swingers like to be discrete about their lifestyle, they have adopted new ways to identify themselves. In fact, according to rumors, this includes the adoption of the pink flamingo.

Here are the other symbols swingers use to identify themselves:

  • Black ring on the right-hand ring finger
  • Pink flamingos
  • The “Queen of Spades” Symbol
  • Thumb Rings

upside-down-pineapples-on-a-cruise

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a pineapple unicorn mean on a cruise.

A pineapple unicorn is a term used by couples looking for single women to sleep with. This term is popular among the swinging community. So, if you’re ever in a cruise Facebook group and you see someone making a post that says they are “looking for a unicorn,” you know now know what it means.

Generally, swingers use discreet terms like “pineapple” and “unicorn,” so it does not draw attention to their lifestyle choices.

Where Will You Find Upside-Down Pineapples on a Cruise?

On a cruise, passengers can find upside-down pineapples on cabin doors, clothing, and accessories. The upside-down pineapple is the most common way to identify swingers on cruises and on land. At land-based resorts, swingers will decorate their doors with pineapple decorations or place a real pineapple in front of it.

According to Reddit, a game some cruise passengers will play at night is trying to find rooms with upside down pineapple decorations on the doors. So, the cruise passengers will walk past every stateroom on the ship and count how many upside-down pineapples they see on cruise cabin doors.

Do Cruise Lines Know About The Upside-Down Pineapple?

Although cruise lines don’t advertise the upside-down pineapple lifestyle, they certainly know it’s a thing! Since the upside-down pineapple has become such a well-known symbol among cruisers, some cruise lines have acknowledged it.

A question people often ask is, “Is Virgin Voyages a swinger cruise?” . Virgin Voyages is an adult only cruise, and some people can be into the swinging lifestyle. However it’s not an official swingers cruise. In our experience on Virgin’s Valiant Lady cruise ship, this wasn’t something we noticed.

P&O is a cruise line in particular that has referenced the upside-down pineapple on several occasions. They have an upside-down pineapple drink and upside-down pineapple bags in their gift shop, and they use pineapple signage at their “Guilty Pleasures” party.

At one time, the upside-down pineapple was a secret symbol. Now, many cruisers know about it, and it has become the subject of many jokes in the cruise community.

Related & Popular Posts:

  • 50+ Popular Cruise Essentials from Amazon
  • Cruise Packing Tips All Cruisers Need to Know
  • 12 Unusual Things Cruise Passengers Actually Do
  • 15 Matching Cruise Shirts for Families, Couples & Groups
  • 17 Cruise Cabin Essentials Every Cruiser Needs
  • The Worst Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid
  • 13 Big Tipping Mistakes To Never Make on a Cruise
  • 25+ Best Cruise Dresses: Amazon Ladies Resort Wear
  • Cruise Cabin Door Decorations: The Ultimate Guide for Cruisers

Final Thoughts On Upside-Down Pineapples On Cruise Ships

Well, there it is, everything you need to know about the upside-down pineapples on cruise ships!

If you’re going on a cruise, chances are you won’t see a lot of upside down pineapples. However, even if you do, it’s not something to be concerned with unless you’re into the lifestyle.

If you love pineapple motif clothing, this is probably something to reconsider as pineapples and swinging have become synonymous in cruise culture.

Have you seen upside down pineapples on a cruise? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com . As a frequent cruiser, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like for teens and young adults.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Top Cruise Trips

Secret Codes on Cruise Ships Only Crew Members Know!

Secret codes on cruise ships? Yes, the word is in: amongst the staff and crew of any given cruise ship, there are code words to indicate goings-on. There are many code words, from an emergency “all hands on deck” to “man overboard.” In this article, we’ll outline all these codes and what they mean – for the passengers and staff alike.

In This Article…

Different codes amongst cruise lines.

It’s important to note that different cruise lines may use different codes for certain emergencies. For instance, Alpha Alpha Alpha is the code for a medical emergency on Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships. 

Many of Royal Caribbean cruise ships’ codes contain words in threes: Alpha Alpha Alpha, Echo Echo Echo, Kilo Kilo Kilo, and Oscar Oscar Oscar are some of them. 

Meanwhile, Carnival Cruise Line uses Alpha Team, Alpha Team, Alpha Team as a fire emergency aboard one of their ships. This is why it’s important to familiarize yourself not only with secret codes on ships, but also what that particular cruise line’s codes are, since they can mean very different things depending on the company.

Cruise Ship Drill

Emergency Codes

The following are emergency codes that the crew should memorize. Below each is the action the crew and passengers should take in response. 

Note that the codes we’ve listed are used as signals to alert crew without causing any distress to passengers. It’s imperative that if you hear any of these codes on board a cruise ship, the first step is to remain calm. Then, proceed by following the procedures outlined by the crew.

These codes refer to a medical emergency onboard the ship. Usually, the ship’s medical staff will respond to the call. Passengers generally can go about their day, but those in the area of the emergency should stay out of the way of the first responders. This also indicates a medical emergency aboard a Royal Caribbean ship. 

Bravo Bravo Bravo means that there’s a fire onboard. If you hear this code, don’t panic. Someone from the crew will give you further instructions if there’s something you need to do. If you are the first one to spot a fire, immediately inform the officer on watch, who will inspect the area and inform the crew. 

On Carnival Cruises, Bravo Bravo means man overboard.

Brightstar or Operation Brightstar

On a Carnival or Disney Cruise Line , Operation Brightstar is a code used to designate a medical emergency. This is only a code that can be used by a member of the medical team to indicate that someone is suffering from an urgent medical emergency, such as cardiac arrest. It is spoken on the PA system so that the ship’s medical team is alerted and can attend to the person in need immediately. 

This code has multiple uses amongst different cruise lines, and can indicate a possible biohazard, damage to the ship, or possible injuries or even multiple injuries. 

More commonly, it is used to alert the crew to possible hull damage. 

This code means that the captain needs all crew to their emergency posts, and this may occur if there needs to be an emergency evacuation . If you hear this code, pay attention to what’s happening around you and find your travel companions, as you may be asked to evacuate soon.

Echo can mean high winds, or the ship is starting to drift, which isn’t necessarily a problem because the captain can likely get things under control. It could be more serious if the ship is near another ship or a port.

Sierra/Sierra Team

Sierra will often follow an Alpha code, which means a stretcher is required in conjunction with a medical emergency. You might not hear this over the intercom, but it may be radioed between staff responding to the emergency. 

Some other companies, such as Carnival Cruise Line, use Sierra Team Sierra Team as their code for a stretcher on site.

If you hear the crew using code Oscar, someone’s gone overboard. Stand by and wait for further information from the crew. The ship may stop for rescue efforts, and the itinerary may change. The best things you can do with a code Oscar are to stay out of the way of the crew and be patient.

Code Green/Code Yellow

These codes mean that a less serious issue has arisen and is easily solvable by the crew members. Cruise ships generally use a traffic light system, where green means go and yellow means yield, so a Code Yellow may be more serious than a Code Green, but rest assured that neither is an emergency.

Operation Rising Star

If a death or serious medical emergency has occurred onboard the cruise ship, you may hear this code.

This code means that someone has vomited in a public area. Staff will respond appropriately to clean up the mess. We recommend that you avoid the area.

Code pink means an infant under one year old is suspected to be missing. The ship’s police are likely to respond quickly and assertively. As a passenger, there’s not much you can do except keep your eyes open and report anything you think looks suspicious.

If someone is abusive, volatile, or belligerent onboard the ship, you’ll hear a Code Gray. The ship’s police will respond to the code.

Red Party means there is a fire at sea. Again, don’t panic. Staff are well-trained and know what to do, so sit back and wait for further instructions.

A fight has broken out on the ship, and the best thing you can do is stay clear of this incident and let the ship’s crew and police respond.

This designates that an illness has broken out on the ship. Norovirus is usually the culprit, but with the recent COVID-19 pandemic, passengers may be suspicious of hearing a Code Red.

Depending on the cruise line, this code means there has been some environmental emergency, like an oil spill.

Code 7 is one of the few codes meant for crew and passengers. If you hear a Code 7, it means that everyone aboard the ship must report to their muster stations. Muster stations are emergency meeting points, and you will be briefed on the process on your first day on the ship.

Code Purple

This code means that there has been a bomb threat or other biological or chemical threat. If you hear this code, it’s important not to panic. The staff and crew members have been trained to deal with these situations, so sit back and wait for further instructions.

A Code Black can mean a few things, like a suicide threat, a fight, or a violent confrontation. Crew and ship police will respond, and passengers should do their best to avoid the violence.

You may hear some of these secret codes on your next cruise. Some are not a big deal, and you can go about your day. Others, though, require a little more care and attention.

Read Also: Cruise Ship Lifeboats – How Are They Tested?

No matter what the code, don’t panic. Stay calm, and wait for further instructions. Chances are you’ll be back to enjoying your cruise in no time!

Related Posts

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

code 5 on cruise ship

Cruise Etiquette: Tips for Finding Peace and Quiet on Crowded Cruise Ships

W hen I was a travel consultant in the early 2000s, the concern I would most often hear from potential first-time cruisers were about crowded ships: “I don’t want to be cooped up with all those people,” they’d groan.

At the time, the capacity of the industry’s largest ships was just over 2,600 passengers. Today, that’s considered medium-sized. The world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s new Icon of the Seas , can set sail with 7,600 passengers onboard. With the industry reporting a return to pre-pandemic booking levels in 2023, there's enough cruising demand to fill these new mega ships—the Icon of the Seas ' inaugural voyage was nearly sold out just 24 hours after bookings opened, The Points Guy reported. While busy ships help create the fun-loving social atmosphere cruises are best known for, navigating crowded cruises can also lend itself to questionable passenger etiquette (nobody likes a pool chair hog).

Of course, not every cruise will sell out, nor are they all that big. As a rule of thumb, travelers should expect full ships during summer months and popular holiday and school break travel periods. Unfortunately, it's nearly impossible to determine if your cruise has been booked to capacity prior to its sailing (many a Reddit thread has been dedicated to cracking the code).

When anticipating how crowded a cruise ship may feel, the total number of passengers onboard doesn’t tell the whole story. To get a better sense of this, the cruise industry refers to something called the “space ratio,” which takes the total tonnage of the ship and divides it by the number of passengers the ship can accommodate. As one might expect, that ratio is lower on big ship cruise lines— Norwegian , Carnival , and Royal Caribbean generally have less space per passenger. It then increases on premium lines (think Princess , Holland America Line , Celebrity ), and tops out at the luxury end ( Crystal , Regent Seven Seas , Silversea ).

But how can passengers who aren’t booking a boutique cruise ship or a luxury line carve out quiet spaces to themselves onboard bigger ships—while still being respectful of other passengers? Below, find tried and true ways to find space on a crowded cruise ship, whether you're onboard a modern mega ship or an intimate expedition vessel.

The secret ‘ships within a ship’ on mega cruises

The most obvious way to secure your own quiet enclave is to book a balcony stateroom . While small, the value of this outdoor space shouldn’t be underestimated, particularly for itineraries rich with scenic cruising, like voyages to Alaska or the Baltic Sea . Several cruise lines also offer private areas of the ship for top-end suite passengers, including dedicated bars, restaurants, pools, and spas that are off-limits to other cruise goers, Tom Baker , the president of Cruise Center, tells Condé Nast Traveler.

These self-enclosed complexes, such as NCL's The Haven, Celebrity Cruises’ Retreat, and MSC’s Yacht Club, create a “ship within a ship” for higher-paying customers, Baker explains. That way, regardless of how busy your sailing proves to be, you can still enjoy yacht-like privacy—plus the fun-loving social atmosphere and amenities of a large cruise. Other ships have dedicated spaces for suite passengers such as Richard’s Rooftop on Virgin Voyages, or the Grills Lounge and Terrace on Cunard that are located throughout the ship. They may not rise to the same “ship within a ship” level of seclusion, but are still exclusive to qualifying guests.

The majority of passengers will spend their time at the ship's standard pool and deck areas, where you'll likely to come face-to-face with the age-old cruise etiquette question: Is it rude to save seats? In my many years of cruising, I've witnessed personal articles strewn across rows of prime pool seating while passengers slept in or lingered over breakfast, and large swaths of theater seats saved for late-arriving guests. When determining the appropriate time window for seat saving, look to the cruise line’s policy, or ask a nearby staff member: Carnival will remove guest belongings from pool loungers and store them at a nearby towel station if they’ve been left for longer than 40 minutes, for example, and Royal Caribbean will remove belongings if left unattended for 30 minutes.

To circumvent this awkward game of musical chairs, some lines offer premium deck spaces that all passengers—regardless of cabin category—can access for a nominal fee. On Princess Cruises, guests can book cushy lounge chairs from $40 per day in The Sanctuary, an adults-only sun deck with attentive deck servers and added amenities like fruit skewers and Evian facial mists. And on most Holland America Line ships, passengers can reserve cabanas at the private outdoor space, also called The Retreat, with exclusive bar service and ocean views (cabana rentals for two adults start at $75 per cabana on port days and $105 on sea days, and family cabanas for four adults start at $105 on port days and $165 on sea days). Even Seabourn , a luxury small ship cruise line that structures fares on a “mostly-included” model, offers the option to pay extra for premium deck seating in a zone called, yet again, The Retreat.

To find quiet escapes, explore on day one

All right, so pools and sundecks can be crowd-free for a fee—but what about the rest of the ship? Part of the fun of sailing on a cruise is wandering the ship for those quiet corners to relax on your own. “Finding nooks and crannies on ships is about exploring and discovering on day one. They might not be illustrated on the deck plans, but there are often hidden booths and seats spread around for a lovely retreat,” Jason Leppert, founder of the YouTube channel Popular Cruising , tells Traveler.

Veteran cruisers are easy to recognize—they'll lay claim to their favorite tables before the ship even disembarks and reserve the same spot early each morning. My very first sailing was on the Celebrity Millennium , and I quickly found the quietest spot for breakfast was in the Spa Café in the Solarium on Deck 10 each morning. On Princess Cruises’ Caribbean Princess , I often found the Wheelhouse Bar empty when I went for a pre-dinner cocktail, so that became a nightly ritual. And onboard Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Explorer Islander II in the Galápagos , I wondered why more passengers hadn’t discovered the hammocks strung from the ceiling on the little-used Observation Deck that I often had entirely to myself for afternoon naps.

If you still have difficulty finding your groove on the ship after a round of exploring, consult the experts. Cruise ship crew members live and work aboard their ships for months at a time, so they know them incredibly well. Crew also have their thumbs on passenger habits. If you ask when a specific bar, lounge, or pool is most quiet, they’ll most likely be able to share their detailed observations.

Ultimately, there’s no way around the fact that ships are a vehicle of transportation, and like any vehicle, space is limited. Whether you’ve chosen an intimate yacht cruise , a high-energy expedition voyage , or a quick getaway on one of the industry’s new mega ships , odds are any passenger with an appetite for calm and an eye for seclusion can find their own little slice of peace and quiet.

Cruise Etiquette: Tips for Finding Peace and Quiet on Crowded Cruise Ships

  • Grand Rapids/Muskegon
  • Saginaw/Bay City
  • All Michigan

2 crew members die on cruise ship during ‘incident’ in the Bahamas

  • Published: Mar. 25, 2024, 9:11 a.m.

Holland America cruise ship

FILE - A Holland America cruise ship is shown in Victoria, Canada on Saturday, April 9, 2022. Two crew members on a Holland America cruise ship died during an “incident” in the ship's engineering space, the cruise line said. The unidentified crew members died Friday, March 22, 2024, while the Florida-based Nieuw Amsterdam was at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Holland America said in a statement.(Darryl Dyck/The Canadian Press via AP) AP

  • The Associated Press

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Two crew members on a Holland America cruise ship died during an “incident” in the ship’s engineering space, the cruise line said.

The unidentified crew members died Friday while the Florida-based Nieuw Amsterdam was at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Holland America said in a statement.

Authorities were notified and the cause of the accident is being investigated, the cruise line said. Crew members were being offered counseling.

“All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with our team members’ families at this difficult time,” the statement said. “The safety, security and welfare of all guests and crew are the company’s absolute priority.”

The cruise line did not offer any further details about the crew members. It later said the Bahamas Maritime Authority was leading the investigation. The ship set sail out of Fort Lauderdale on March 16 for a seven-night trip.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

  • Plan Your Trip

What Do Categories Mean On Cruise Ships

Published: December 9, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Dulciana Tomas

what-do-categories-mean-on-cruise-ships

Introduction

Planning a cruise vacation can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. With so many cruise lines, ships, and itineraries to choose from, it’s important to understand the various options available. One key aspect of booking a cruise is understanding the different categories of cabins or staterooms on board the ship.

Categories on cruise ships refer to the different types of accommodations available to passengers. Just like hotels have room categories like standard, deluxe, and suites, cruise ships have their own classification system. This classification system helps passengers choose the type of cabin that best suits their needs, preferences, and budget.

Each category offers different features, amenities, and prices. Whether you’re looking for an inside cabin with no windows, a balcony cabin for breathtaking views, or a luxurious suite with exclusive perks, cruise ship categories provide a range of options to cater to different travelers.

Understanding the categories on a cruise ship is essential for making an informed decision and enjoying a memorable vacation. In this article, we will delve into the various types of categories available, decipher category codes, explore the benefits of booking specific categories, and provide tips to help you choose the right category for your cruise experience.

What are categories on cruise ships?

Categories on cruise ships refer to the different types of accommodations available for passengers. These categories are typically based on the size, location, amenities, and features of the cabins or staterooms.

On a cruise ship, you’ll find a variety of categories to choose from, ranging from basic interior cabins to luxurious suites. Each category offers a unique experience, and it’s important to understand the differences before making a decision.

The most common categories include:

  • Interior cabins: These cabins are located in the interior of the ship and do not have windows or balconies. They provide a cozy, cost-effective option for those who don’t mind being in a smaller space with no natural light.
  • Oceanview cabins: These cabins have windows or portholes that allow passengers to enjoy views of the ocean. They are slightly more expensive than interior cabins but offer the benefit of natural light and the ability to see the outside world.
  • Balcony cabins: As the name suggests, these cabins include a private balcony that allows passengers to step outside and enjoy the fresh sea breeze and panoramic views. Balcony cabins are particularly popular for those who value outdoor space and privacy.
  • Suite cabins: Suites are the most luxurious and spacious options available on a cruise ship. They often come with a separate living area, larger bathrooms, and additional amenities such as butler service, priority embarkation, and exclusive access to private lounges or restaurants.

It’s important to note that the category options can vary depending on the cruise line and ship. Some ships may have additional categories such as mini-suites, family cabins, or specialty cabins like spa cabins or single occupancy cabins.

By offering different categories, cruise ships aim to cater to a wide range of travelers with varying preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a lavish experience, there’s a category that suits your needs.

Different types of categories

Cruise ships offer a variety of categories to cater to the diverse preferences and budgets of passengers. Let’s explore some of the different types of categories commonly found on cruise ships:

  • Interior cabins: These cabins, also known as inside cabins, are located on the inner part of the ship and do not have any windows or balconies. They are typically the most affordable option and provide a comfortable space for sleeping and relaxing.
  • Oceanview cabins: These cabins offer passengers the opportunity to enjoy views of the ocean with windows or portholes. Oceanview cabins are slightly more expensive than interior cabins but provide the added benefit of natural light and the ability to see the outside world.
  • Balcony cabins: These cabins come with a private balcony that allows passengers to enjoy panoramic views of the sea. Balcony cabins are popular among travelers who appreciate outdoor space, fresh air, and the luxury of having their own private retreat within the cabin.
  • Suite cabins: Suites are the most spacious and luxurious category on a cruise ship. They often include a separate living area, larger bathrooms, and a private balcony. Suite passengers typically enjoy additional amenities such as butler service, priority embarkation and disembarkation, exclusive access to private lounges and restaurants, and sometimes even complimentary specialty dining.
  • Specialty cabins: Some cruise ships offer specialty cabins, catering to specific traveler needs or preferences. These can include family cabins with extra space or connecting rooms, spa cabins with access to onboard wellness facilities, and single occupancy cabins for solo travelers.

It’s important to note that the availability and specific features of each category can vary depending on the cruise line and ship. Some cruise lines have even more categories and variations, ensuring there is a perfect accommodation option for every traveler.

When selecting a category, consider your personal preferences, budget, and desired level of comfort. If you’re someone who values natural light and views, an oceanview or balcony cabin might be the best fit for you. On the other hand, if you plan to spend limited time in your cabin and prioritize saving money, an interior cabin may be a suitable choice.

Regardless of the category you choose, modern cruise ship cabins are designed to provide comfortable and functional living spaces to enhance your cruise experience.

Understanding category codes

When browsing through cruise ship itineraries and cabin options, you may come across category codes. These codes are typically a combination of letters and numbers that provide information about the cabin’s category, location, and specific features.

While each cruise line may have its own set of category codes, there are a few common patterns to understand:

  • Letter codes: The first letter of the code often represents the general category, such as “I” for interior, “O” for oceanview, “B” for balcony, and “S” for suite. This helps you quickly identify the basic type of cabin.
  • Number codes: The numbers in the code usually indicate the deck level or location of the cabin. Lower numbers typically indicate lower decks, while higher numbers signify higher decks. For example, a cabin with the code “B503” would be a balcony cabin on deck 5.
  • Additional codes: Some category codes may include additional letters or numbers to specify certain features or subcategories. For instance, “OVH” may indicate an oceanview cabin with a obstructed view, while “FS” may represent a family suite.

Understanding category codes can be helpful when searching for a specific type of cabin or when comparing the features and locations of different options. It allows you to quickly identify the key characteristics and make informed decisions based on your preferences.

If you’re unsure about a category code, consult the cruise line’s website or speak with a knowledgeable travel agent who can provide guidance and clarification.

Keep in mind that while category codes serve as a quick reference, it’s important to review cabin details, deck plans, and even photos to ensure the cabin meets your specific needs and expectations. What may be considered a desirable location for one person may not be the same for another.

By understanding category codes and utilizing them as a tool during your search, you can navigate through the myriad of cabin options more effectively and select the perfect accommodation for your cruise vacation.

Benefits of booking specific categories

When booking a cruise, the category you choose can have a significant impact on your overall experience. Here are some benefits of booking specific categories on a cruise ship:

  • Enhanced views: Balcony cabins provide the advantage of having a private outdoor space. You can wake up to breathtaking views, enjoy the sea breeze, and even dine alfresco without having to leave your cabin.
  • More space: Suites offer generous living areas with separate bedrooms, bathrooms, and even walk-in closets. This extra space ensures greater comfort and allows you to spread out and relax during your cruise.
  • Exclusive amenities: Suite passengers often enjoy a range of exclusive amenities, such as priority boarding and disembarkation, access to private lounges or restaurants, and dedicated concierge or butler service. These additional perks enhance the luxury and convenience of your cruise vacation.
  • Privacy: Booking a higher category cabin, such as a suite or a cabin in a restricted-access area, can provide a greater level of privacy. This is particularly advantageous for honeymooners, families, or those who prefer a more secluded and tranquil environment.
  • Convenience: Choosing a cabin closer to the main amenities, such as restaurants, pool areas, or entertainment venues, can save you time and effort when navigating the ship. You’ll have easy access to the facilities and activities you enjoy most, minimizing the need to walk long distances.
  • Luxury experience: If you’re looking for a truly indulgent vacation, booking a suite or a high-end category can provide a luxurious experience. From spacious living spaces to opulent furnishings and upgraded amenities, these categories offer a level of luxury and comfort that surpasses standard cabins.

It’s essential to consider your needs, preferences, and budget when deciding on a category. While the higher categories often come with more amenities and privileges, they are typically more expensive. However, if you value the added benefits and can afford the upgrade, it can significantly enhance your cruise experience.

Ultimately, the benefits of booking specific categories on a cruise ship are about customization and personalization. It allows you to tailor your vacation to your preferences and ensures that you have a comfortable and enjoyable time onboard.

Factors to consider when choosing a category

When choosing a category for your cruise, there are several factors to consider. Each factor plays a crucial role in determining the type of cabin that will best suit your needs and preferences. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

  • Budget: Your budget will be a significant factor in determining the category you can afford. Higher-category cabins, such as suites or cabins with balconies, tend to be more expensive than interior or oceanview cabins. Set a budget range and consider the value and amenities you’ll get for the price.
  • Preferences: Think about your preferences and what matters most to you. Do you prioritize having a view? Would you enjoy a private balcony for relaxation and outdoor space? Consider whether you’ll spend a lot of time in your cabin or intend to be out and about enjoying the ship’s amenities.
  • Itinerary: The ports of call and the type of cruising experience you desire can influence your cabin choice. If you plan to spend a significant amount of time exploring the destinations, an interior cabin may suffice since you won’t be in your room as much. However, if you want to enjoy scenic cruising or relax on your own private balcony, a balcony cabin might be more suitable.
  • Traveling companions: If you’re traveling with family or friends, consider the size and layout of the cabin. Some categories offer options for connecting cabins or larger family cabins to accommodate everyone comfortably. Check the maximum capacity of each cabin and ensure it meets your needs.
  • Noise and motion sensitivity: If you’re sensitive to noise or motion, consider the location of the cabin. Cabins closer to the ship’s center, lower decks, or with higher decks above them tend to provide more stability and less movement. Additionally, cabins away from entertainment venues or high-traffic areas can offer a quieter experience.
  • Special needs or accessibility: If you have specific accessibility requirements or mobility concerns, it’s important to consider the layout and accessibility features of the cabin. Some cruise ships offer cabins designed for wheelchair users or those with physical disabilities.

Keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing a cabin category. It’s a personal decision based on your unique preferences and circumstances. Take the time to research and compare options, read reviews, and consult with travel professionals to help you make an informed decision.

By considering these factors, you can select a cabin category that aligns with your budget and provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience during your cruise vacation.

Tips for selecting the right category

Selecting the right category is crucial to ensure a satisfying cruise experience. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision when choosing a cabin category:

  • Research and Compare: Take the time to research different cruise lines, ships, and their cabin categories. Compare the amenities, features, and prices of each category to find the best fit for your preferences and budget. Online travel websites, cruise line websites, and travel agents can be valuable resources for gathering information.
  • Consider Your Priorities: Identify your must-haves and non-negotiables. Do you prioritize space, a view, or access to exclusive amenities? Understand what matters most to you and prioritize it when selecting a category. Be prepared to compromise on certain aspects to stay within your budget.
  • Review Deck Plans: Review the ship’s deck plans to understand the location of the cabin within the ship. Consider factors such as proximity to elevators, noise from public areas, and potential obstructions. This will help you choose a cabin that suits your preferences for convenience and comfort.
  • Read Reviews: Read reviews from previous cruisers who have stayed in the cabin categories you are considering. They can provide insights into the cabin’s condition, comfort level, noise level, and any particular advantages or disadvantages. Keep in mind that individual experiences can vary, so look for common themes in the reviews.
  • Reach Out to Experts: If you’re unsure or have specific requirements, don’t hesitate to reach out to travel agents or cruise line representatives. They can offer personalized advice and guidance based on their expertise and knowledge of the ships and cabin categories.
  • Consider Seasonal Rates: Keep in mind that cabin rates can vary based on the time of year and demand. If you have flexibility in your travel dates, you may be able to secure a better deal by booking during off-peak or shoulder seasons when cabin prices may be lower.
  • Upgrade Opportunities: Pay attention to possible upgrade opportunities. Sometimes, cruise lines offer last-minute upgrades or promotions that can allow you to secure a higher category cabin at a reduced price. Keep an eye out for these offers, but be aware that they are subject to availability.
  • Trust Your Instincts: After considering all the factors, trust your instincts and make the decision that feels right for you. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all choice, and what works for someone else may not necessarily work for you. Trusting your preferences and intuition will lead to a more satisfying experience.

By following these tips, you can make an informed decision and select the right cabin category that aligns with your needs, preferences, and budget. Remember, the goal is to choose a cabin that enhances your cruise experience and allows you to enjoy your journey to the fullest.

Choosing the right category on a cruise ship is an essential part of planning a memorable vacation. Whether you prefer an interior cabin for budget-conscious travel or desire the luxury of a suite, understanding the various categories available allows you to make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences, budget, and desired amenities.

By considering factors such as your budget, preferences, itinerary, traveling companions, noise sensitivity, and accessibility needs, you can narrow down the options and find the perfect cabin category for your cruise experience. Researching and comparing different cruise lines, reading reviews, and reviewing deck plans are critical steps in ensuring you select the right category.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing a cabin category. Every traveler has unique needs and expectations. Trust your instincts, prioritize what matters most to you, and consult with travel professionals if needed to make the best decision.

Taking the time to understand category codes and benefits, along with considering your priorities and preferences, will help you navigate the vast array of cabin options and find the perfect accommodation for your cruise vacation.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy interior cabin, an oceanview room with stunning views, or a luxurious suite with exclusive amenities, the right cabin category sets the stage for an unforgettable experience on the high seas.

TouristSecrets

  • Privacy Overview
  • Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Port of Baltimore suspends ship traffic after bridge collapse: What it means for travel

Travel is being impacted by Tuesday’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse along Interstate 695 in Baltimore, Maryland. 

Drivers were immediately directed to take alternate routes through the city, following the early morning incident. What’s less clear is what the bridge collapse may mean for upcoming cruises in and out of Baltimore.

“Vessel traffic into and out of the Port of Baltimore is suspended until further notice,” the Port of Baltimore posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Live Updates: Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship hits it; construction crew missing

Rep. Kweisi Mfume, D-Md., whose district includes the bridge and the port, called the collapse an “unthinkable horror” and said he had spoken with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the White House. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“They are responding with all of the assets at their disposal,” he said in a statement. “Our prayers right now are for the missing individuals and victims of this tragedy. We thank God for the effective service of our first responders.”

Here’s what we know.

Which cruises go to Baltimore?

Several major cruise lines serve Baltimore. According to the Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade group, published itineraries in the 2024 calendar year include a dozen ships making 115 stops in Baltimore.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Key Bridge that occurred last night and extend our support and heartfelt prayers to all those impacted,” CLIA spokesperson Anne Madison said in an emailed statement. “We join everyone in extending our thanks and appreciation to the first responders and emergency workers in Baltimore, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other professionals who are working with one goal in mind—to save lives. We are closely following this situation.”

Royal Caribbean’s Vision of the Seas has a roundtrip itinerary scheduled to depart Baltimore on April 12, according to the cruise line’s website. “We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and extend our heartfelt prayers to all those impacted,” a spokesperson for the line said in an email. “We are closely monitoring the situation, and our port logistics team is currently working on alternatives for Vision of the Seas’ ongoing and upcoming sailings.”

Carnival’s website shows Carnival Pride and Carnival Legend also have sailings into or out of Baltimore set for April. 

Carnival Legend will temporarily move operations to Norfolk, Virginia.

The ship's current cruise, which left for a planned round-trip sailing from Baltimore on March 24, will end in Norfolk on Sunday. Passengers will then receive free bus rides to Baltimore. The vessel's next cruise will sail round-trip from Norfolk later that day.

“Our thoughts remain with the impacted families and first responders in Baltimore,” Carnival president Christine Duffy said in a statement. “We appreciate the pledge made by President Biden today to dedicate all available resources to reopen Baltimore Harbor to marine traffic as soon as possible. As those plans are finalized, we will update our future cruise guests on when we will return home to Baltimore, but in the meantime, we appreciate the quick response and support from officials in Norfolk.”

The cruise line has not yet shared plans for Carnival Pride. Carnival's parent company, Carnival Corp., said the temporary change in homeport is estimated to have an impact of up to $10 million on adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income this year, according to a news release .

Was your cruise itinerary changed?: What to do next

American Cruise Lines has roundtrip sailings from Baltimore scheduled in May, according to its website.

“We will monitor the situation and make adjustments to future cruises if needed, but at the present time our schedules remain unaffected, and our thoughts remain with those affected by the immediate situation and rescue efforts underway,” an American Cruise Lines spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Norwegian Cruise Line doesn’t appear to have any Baltimore sailings until September on Norwegian Sky . The line will stay in contact with the port and share any changes with passengers and travel partners, according to a spokesperson.

"In the meantime, we wish the city of Baltimore strength during this very unfortunate event," they said in an email.

Alternate routes for the Baltimore bridge

Most drivers can take Interstate 95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or Interstate 895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) to avoid the collapsed bridge. However Maryland Transportation Authority notes there are some exceptions .

Vehicles carrying hazardous materials, including more than 10 pounds of propane, are not allowed in the tunnels. Additionally, vehicles more than 13-feet and 6-inches high or 8-feet wide may not use the 1-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel. Vehicles more than 14-feet and 6-inches high or 11-feet wide may not use the I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel. 

Those vehicles should use the western portion of I-695 instead.

  • Election Results
  • The Political Beat
  • Latest Links
  • Continuing Coverage
  • Talking About Race
  • Power Grid Security
  • Black History in the Carolinas
  • Streaming/Mobile Apps
  • Newsletter Sign-up (Opens in new window)
  • Severe Weather Resources
  • Interactive Radar
  • 7-Day Forecast
  • Tracking the Tropics
  • Hour by Hour
  • Video Forecast
  • School Closings
  • Report Closings
  • Closings Instructions
  • WSOCTV Weather Apps
  • Live Stream
  • WSOC 24/7 News
  • Weather 24/7
  • NeighborhoodTV
  • The $pend $mart Stream
  • Law & Crime
  • Curiosity NOW
  • 9 Investigates
  • Carolina Panthers
  • Charlotte FC
  • High School Football
  • Black History Month
  • Carolinas Get Real
  • Priced Out Of Charlotte
  • Mental Health Resources
  • Faces of Pride
  • Family Focus
  • 9 Food Drive
  • 9 School Tools
  • Steves Coats
  • 9 Crisis Help
  • Carolina Strong
  • COVID-19 Community Resources
  • Back to School
  • Steals and Deals
  • Contests (Opens in new window)
  • Advertise with Us
  • Daily 2 Video
  • Toyota of North Charlotte
  • What's on Channel 9
  • What's On TV64
  • Closed Captioning
  • Visitor Agreement
  • Privacy Policy
  • Celebrando la Herencia Hispana
  • Programas de Telemundo
  • Share Your Pics!

2 crew members killed on Holland America cruise ship during incident onboard

2 crew members killed on Holland America cruise ship during incident onboard

Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam 2 crew members killed on Holland America cruise ship during incident onboard (IanMcD/Getty Images)

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — A couple of crew members on the Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam cruise ship were killed during an incident on the ship Friday.

>> Read more trending news

Two crew members died after an incident in the engineering area of the ship, Holland America said, according to WFLA. The incident happened when the ship was docked in Half City Cay in the Bahamas.

“All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with our team members’ families at this difficult time,” a cruise line spokesperson said in an emailed statement to USA Today . “The safety, security and welfare of all guests and crew are the company’s absolute priority.”

The cause of the incident is under investigation, the cruise line said, according to The Associated Press.

No further information about the incidents has been released. The names of the crew members have also not yet been released.

The cruise ship left Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on March 16 for a seven-night trip, according to the AP .

  • Joe Lieberman, former US senator, Al Gore’s running mate in 2000, dead at 82
  • Customs officers seize more than $1.1M in meth at Texas-Mexico border
  • Powerball: Jackpot rises to $935M after no one wins grand prize
  • Teak, Louisville Zoo’s beloved orangutan, dies at age of 36
  • Revved up: Florida deputy wrangles snake from car engine

© 2024 Cox Media Group

code 5 on cruise ship

One hurt during emergency plane evacuation at Charlotte Douglas

Man sues Marriott for $160M, says he woke up to stranger sexually assaulting him

Man sues Marriott for $160M, says he woke up to stranger sexually assaulting him

Feds say group stole $290K in building materials from Lowe’s stores

Feds say group stole $290K in building materials from Lowe’s stores

Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse: divers recover 2 bodies from river

Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse: divers recover 2 bodies from river

Arrest on U.S. 74 in Union County leads to road closure

Arrest on U.S. 74 in Union County leads to road closure

  • International edition
  • Australia edition
  • Europe edition

The collapsed bridge in Baltimore

Baltimore bridge collapse: what we know about the bridge, ship and port

Biden laments ‘terrible accident’ as six people still missing after Francis Scott Key Bridge snapped from collision with vessel

A bridge in the US city of Baltimore has snapped and collapsed after a ship collided with one of its support columns. Rescuers are searching the water for survivors and the state’s governor has declared a state of emergency.

Joe Biden has said search and rescue efforts remain a “top priority”, as six people are still missing. The president added there was no evidence the collapse of the bridge was intentional, calling it “a terrible accident”.

Here is what we know about the bridge, the ship and the port.

Overhead view showing collapsed sections of the bridge

Baltimore’s 1.6-mile (2.57km) Francis Scott Key Bridge was built out of steel and opened in 1977. With four lanes, the bridge is part of Interstate 695 and served as a major route along the ring road that encircles the city in the US state of Maryland.

It is named after the author of the American national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner. The Maryland governor, Wes Moore, said the bridge had been “fully up to code” before Tuesday’s collision and collapse, indicating it met safety standards.

Live video posted on YouTube showed the ship ploughing into the bridge in darkness, with its main section collapsing into the Patapsco River below.

Several vehicles fell into the water, and officials said eight construction workers assisting with a project fell off. Six people remained unaccounted for.

One official said that sonar had detected cars in the water, which is about 50ft (15 metres) deep.

The National Transportation Safety Board is dispatching a team to investigate the disastrous collapse. Andrew Barr, an expert in civil and structural engineering at the University of Sheffield, said: “The video doesn’t show any obvious structural deficiencies with the bridge, but it will not have been designed to survive a head-on collision with such a large vessel.”

The Dali, stacked with shipping containers, behind a collapsed section of the bridge

Ship-tracking data showed a Singapore-flagged container ship, the Dali, at the location of the bridge where the accident occurred at about 1.30am ET (0530 GMT) on Tuesday.

The Dali, a 290-metre (948ft) cargo vessel, left Baltimore at 1am and was headed for the Sri Lankan capital, Colombo, according to the maritime data platform MarineTraffic. The shipping company Maersk said it had chartered the vessel.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) confirmed that the vessel was registered in Singapore and said the agency was coordinating with the US Coast Guard and the ship’s management company to help. It also said it would investigate the incident itself.

Moore said the ship had lost power around the time it hit the bridge and the vessel’s crew had issued a “mayday” radio call. The ship then appeared to catch fire as part of the bridge collapsed over it, sending plumes of thick, black smoke into the air.

The shipping company Maersk said that it chartered the container ship in Baltimore, with the operator named as Synergy Marine Group. Maersk confirmed that there were 22 crew, and said they were all Indian. None of them were Maersk crew or personnel.

Reuters cited the manager of the ship, Synergy Marine Group, as saying the crew, including the two pilots, had been accounted for and there were no reports of injuries onboard.

Maersk added that there were 4,679 containers on board, roughly half of its 10,000 capacity.

The same vessel was also involved in a collision in 2016 in Antwerp, Belgium, according to VesselFinder and the maritime incident archive Shipwrecklog. At the time, the stern scraped the side of the quay, significantly damaging several metres of the hull. There were reportedly no injuries or adverse pollution and the weather was reported to be fine at the time. The incident was reportedly blamed on the ship’s master and pilot onboard.

The harbour is one of the busiest in the country and an important hub for shipping on the US east coast, especially in transporting road vehicles. It also handles farming, construction machinery and coal, according to a Maryland government website.

Port traffic was suspended until further notice after the bridge collapse.

Agencies contributed to this report

  • Baltimore bridge collapse
  • Water transport
  • Shipping industry
  • Asia Pacific

Most viewed

  • International

March 26, 2024 - Baltimore Key Bridge collapses after ship collision

By Helen Regan , Kathleen Magramo , Antoinette Radford, Alisha Ebrahimji , Maureen Chowdhury , Rachel Ramirez , Elise Hammond , Aditi Sangal , Tori B. Powell , Piper Hudspeth Blackburn and Kathleen Magramo , CNN

Ship lights flickered and veered off course shortly before Baltimore bridge hit, CNN analysis shows   

From CNN’s Allegra Goodwin in London

A view of the Dali cargo vessel which crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge causing it to collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26.

The Singaporean-flagged cargo ship that struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore Tuesday altered course and veered toward a pillar shortly before impact, a CNN analysis of MarineTraffic ship-tracking data confirms.  

It’s unclear what caused the ship to crash into the bridge or why its lights were flickering. CNN has reached out to the National Transportation Safety Board to inquire about a possible power failure. 

The container ship DALI, which was en route to Colombo, Sri Lanka, begins to change course toward the bridge’s pillar at 1:26 a.m. local time, striking the bridge at 1:28 a.m. ET, according to MarineTraffic data and video from the scene. Video from 1:25 a.m. ET shows a plume of dark smoke billowing from the ship. DALI's lights flicker at least twice before the incident.  

In video, as it navigates down the Patapsco River, the ship’s lights can be seen going out at 1:24 a.m. ET, before turning back on, and then flickering off and on again between 1:26 a.m. ET and 1.27 a.m. ET, just before it hits the bridge.  

Maryland transportation secretary says contractors were working on bridge at time of collapse

From CNN's Antoinette Radford

Maryland State Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld told reporters there were workers on the Francis Scott Key Bridge at the time of its collapse.

"We know there were individuals on the bridge at the time of the collapse, working on the bridge, contractors for us," he said at a news conference Tuesday morning.

Wiedefeld said the workers were "basically doing some concrete deck repair," but said they did not know how many vehicles were involved.

He added that the transport authority has set up a facility for family members of those who were believed to be on the bridge at the time of its collapse.

Baltimore fire chief: Sonar has detected the presence of vehicles submerged in the water

A helicopter flies over the scene of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26.

Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace says authorities have detected vehicles submerged in the water.

“Our sonar has detected the presence of vehicles submerged in the water,” said Wallace at a news conference on the collapse of Francis Scott Key Bridge. “I don't have a count of that yet.”

He said emergency services are using sonar, drones and infrared technology as a part of their search for people and vehicles who may have fallen from the Key Bridge into the Patapsco River.

No indication of "terrorism" or intent in Baltimore bridge collapse, police chief says

From CNN’s Andy Rose

Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley, with Mayor Brandon Scott, right, and Fire Department Chief James Wallace, left, speaks at a press conference on the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26.

Baltimore Police said there was no evidence that the ship collision that caused the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge was intentional.

“There is absolutely no indication that there's any terrorism, that this was done on purpose,” Chief Richard Worley said at a news conference.

The FBI  said  that it was joining the investigation into the cause of the collision.

Rescue crews have determined there are vehicles in the Patapsco River following the bridge collapse.

“Our sonar has detected the presence of vehicles submerged in the water,” said Fire Chief James Wallace. “I don't have a count of that yet.”

Wallace said they are waiting to make sure that the ship is secure and stable before investigators board it.

“Never would you think that you would see, physically see, the Key Bridge tumble down like that,” Mayor Brandon M. Scott said.

Cruises, cars and commodities: What to know about the Port of Baltimore

From CNN's Mark Thompson and Hanna Ziady

In this aerial image cargo containers are readied for transport at the Port of Baltimore in Baltimore, Maryland, on October 14, 2021.

The collapse of the   Francis Scott Key Bridge over the Patapsco River outside the Port of Baltimore threatens to disrupt shipping operations at a major US trade hub for autos, container traffic and commodities. Baltimore also has a cruise terminal.

Closer to the Midwest than any other port on the East Coast, Baltimore ranks first in the United States for autos and light trucks, handling a record 850,000 vehicles last year. It was also the leading port for farming and construction machinery, as well as imported sugar and gypsum. It was second in the country for exporting coal.

Overall, Baltimore ranks as the 9th biggest US port for international cargo, handling a record 52.3 million tons, valued at $80.8 billion in 2023.

“The immediate focus is the rescue operation, but there will clearly be a highly-complex recovery phase and investigation to follow and we don't know what impact this will have on operations at the Port of Baltimore," said Emily Stausbøll, market analyst at Norway-based shipping analytics company Xeneta.

“While Baltimore is not one of the largest US East Coast ports, it still imports and exports more than one million containers each year so there is the potential for this to cause significant disruption to supply chains," she added.

Baltimore's cruise terminal serves ships operated by Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian. Cruises carrying more than 444,000 passengers departed from the port last year.

According to the Maryland state government, the port supports 15,330 direct jobs and 139,180 jobs in related services.

Rescue crews looking for at least seven people in Baltimore bridge collapse

Rescue operations are underway near the wreckage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, as crews look for people who fell into the Patapsco River.

“We are still very much in an active search and rescue posture at this point, and we will continue to be for some time,” Wallace added.

Baltimore Fire says two people have been rescued from the river – one who was uninjured, and another in hospitalized “very serious condition.”

“This is an unthinkable tragedy,” Mayor Brandon Scott said. “We have to first and foremost pray for all of those impacted.”

Ship that collided with Baltimore bridge was chartered by Danish shipping company Maersk 

From CNN's Alex Stambaugh in Hong Kong

The Dali container vessel after striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge that collapsed into the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, US, on March 26.

The container ship that collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday was chartered by Maersk and carrying their customers' cargo, the Danish shipping company told CNN.

"We are horrified by what has happened in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with all of those affected," The company said in its statement.

The company, which has a full name of A.P. Moller - Maersk, said no company crew and personnel were onboard the vessel. It said the ship, DALI, is operated by charter vessel company Synergy Group. 

"We are closely following the investigations conducted by authorities and Synergy, and we will do our utmost to keep our customers informed," the statement said. 

CNN is attempting to contact the owner and managers of the ship, including Synergy.

FBI Baltimore on the scene at the Key Bridge

FBI Baltimore personnel are on the scene at the Francis Scott Key Bridge, they have said in a post on X.

The agency said it was working "side by side with our local, state and federal partners."

Baltimore fire emergency chief says 2 people saved from water after Key Bridge collapse

The Baltimore Fire Department Chief James Wallace says authorities rescued two people from the water this morning, one without injury and the other who has been transferred to hospital in a serious condition.

Authorities are continuing their search for upwards of seven people, Wallace says. But, he says that number could change as it is a "very large incident." Earlier on Tuesday, an official said as many as 20 people could be in the water.

Wallace added that the crew remains on board the ship, and are communicating with the US Coast Guard. He added that emergency services are looking into reports that there were workers on the bridge at the time of the incident.

Speaking at the press conference, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott also described the incident as an “unthinkable tragedy,” and offered his prayers for all those affected, as well as his thanks to first responders.

Please enable JavaScript for a better experience.

IMAGES

  1. 5 Cruise Ship CODES explain by Crew Member

    code 5 on cruise ship

  2. Secret Codes on Cruise Ships Only Crew Members Know!

    code 5 on cruise ship

  3. Royal Caribbean Deck Plans

    code 5 on cruise ship

  4. how do i find my royal caribbean reservation number

    code 5 on cruise ship

  5. CHOOSE YOUR CRUISE how to find your perfect cruise

    code 5 on cruise ship

  6. Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas Cruise Ship, 2024, 2025 and 2026

    code 5 on cruise ship

VIDEO

  1. Cruise Travel Updates for 2024: Ships, Ports & More

  2. SEA DAY IN THE LIFE! 🛳️ cruise catch-up & routines onboard P&O Cruises Arcadia 🌎 World Cruise Series

  3. HUGE Ship CRASHES into Pier in GTA 5!

  4. 5 MOST ANTICIPATED CRUISE SHIPS IN 2024

  5. CANARY ISLANDS P&O AZURA CRUISE! FLIGHT, EMBARKATION & SEA DAY! Balcony Cabin Tour!

COMMENTS

  1. 21 Secret Codes On Cruise Ships Explained

    Some cruise lines use "Code Blue" as an alternative to "Alpha" codes to communicate that there is a medical emergency on board. Alternatively, some cruise lines use "Code Blue" to warn of hull damage. So the meaning of this code really depends on the ship. 19. Code Yellow.

  2. Cruise Ship Secret Codes (inc Emergency & Naughty Ones too)

    Cruise Ship Emergency Codes. Some cruise ships have their own specific codes unique to the cruise line, although they are typically a variation on the most used universal version of the code. 30-30. A code 30-30 will be the crew contacting maintenance to clear up a mess that could be hazardous to passing guests, ...

  3. Secret Codes on Cruise Ships Only Crew Members Know!

    Code 7. Code 7 is one of the few codes meant for crew and passengers. If you hear a Code 7, it means that everyone aboard the ship must report to their muster stations. Muster stations are ...

  4. The emergency codes you're not supposed to know about

    It pays to know your alpha from your echo when on board a cruise ship or at the airport - we unravel the secrets behind the codes ... Code 5: Broken Glass. Code 6: Litter. Code 7: Anything that ...

  5. 19 Secret Codes On Cruise Ships That You Need To Know

    It may indicate physical damage to the ship's hull or pollution. Norwegian Cruise Line mostly uses "Code Delta" for pollution emergencies. 5. Echo. If you hear "Code Echo" or "Echo, Echo, Echo" on a cruise ship, it alerts the ship's staff that the vessel is drifting, often because of high winds.

  6. Vessel emergency codes

    Code Blue usually means a medical emergency. Delta, Delta, Delta is the code for a possible bio-hazard among some cruise lines. More commonly used to alert crew to hull damage on board some lines as well. Echo, Echo, Echo is the code for a possible collision with another ship or the shore aboard Royal Caribbean ships, or if the ship is starting ...

  7. Cruise Ship Workers' Secret Code Words and What They Mean

    Cruise workers use code words to communicate on board — here are 35 of the secret terms. Hannah Towey. ... A single cruise ship may employ people from over 40 countries, resulting in industry ...

  8. What those Codes and Code Words on Cruise Ships Mean

    The most talked about code currently is the Code Red which denotes an outbreak of a virus or other illness on the ship. In a Code Red, ill passengers are required to remain in their cabins and crew goes into deep cleaning mode. There are several codes which all mean that there is a medical emergency on a ship which includes Star Code, Code Blue ...

  9. Emergency codes used on a cruise ship and an air rescue filmed at sea

    CODE ALPHA is a medical emergency which can end up in an expensive airlift away from the ship. 30 - 30 - Clean up required (Or PVI see below or a combination of both) Alpha - a medical emergency. Bravo - is a fire emergency. Bravo Bravo Bravo - man overboard (some suggest Oscar is used) - the side or rear of the ship may follow.

  10. Cruise ship code words explained

    Cruise ship code words explained by: Jim Loboy. Posted: Mar 2, 2023 / 08:24 AM EST. Updated: Mar 2, 2023 / 08:24 AM EST. Len Rome's Daily Feature of Little Known Facts.

  11. Cruise Ship Code Words: Bravo Bravo Bravo, Code Oscar and More

    Cruise ship code words. These are just a few of the code words Semenova says you might hear on a ship. Whether you're taking a themed cruise, singles cruise or all-inclusive trip, listen for ...

  12. Stateroom Codes Explained Please

    All D cabins are the same size on each ship, except for the aft facing deck 10 D's on Voyager class which are longer, thus larger. All E cabins are the same size. D's have a full couch and E's have only a loveseat. Sizes of D and E cabins do vary between ships. The older ships have smaller sq. footage.

  13. Cruise ship code words you need to know before your next trip

    Most of the common code words that are used daily are harmless. They can include a "30-30" which simply means maintenance has been called to clean up a mess or, the more unpleasant call ...

  14. What Are The Secret Codes On Cruise Ship Doors?

    The truth is that the codes on cruise ship doors are simply a form of door code technology used for identification purposes. These codes help staff members locate specific rooms quickly and efficiently. While the specific codes may vary depending on the cruise ship, there are some common cruise ship door codes that you may come across. ...

  15. 5 Cruise Ship CODES explain by Crew Member

    Traveling on a Cruise Ship can be an unforgettable experience in the best of way, but unfortunately things aren't always perfect. Things happen often but the...

  16. What Does Code Bravo Mean On A Cruise Ship

    What Code Bravo Means On A Cruise Line. Code Bravo has two rather serious meanings regardless of the company behind the cruise. The Telegraph says hearing "Bravo" on a cruise could mean either a fire or another disturbance on the ship, such as pirates. A viral TikTok video posted earlier this month claimed a Code Bravo was announced on a recent ...

  17. The cruise ship code you don't want to hear

    Cruise ship lawyer shares the one 'secret' code word you never want to hear on a ship It gets called a few times a month. Tod Perry. 03.27.24. via Matthew Barra/Pexels. A beautiful cruise ship crossing the seas. Going on a cruise can be an incredible getaway from the stresses of life on the mainland. However, that doesn't mean there isn't ...

  18. The Secret Code Word You Should Be Horrified To Hear On A Cruise Ship

    Cruise ship crews, too, use code words to relay important messages, though they're often not the same ones you might hear uttered at 30,000 feet in the sky. Case in point: code Oscar. According to Spencer Aronfeld, a lawyer who specializes in cruise ship lawsuits, the phrase "code Oscar" has a dark meaning that's unique to ships.

  19. Cruise Ship Etiquette: What's the Dress Code These Days?

    Holland America Line requires collared shirts and slacks on men in "fine dining" restaurants ( i.e. not at the buffet or quick service counters) at minimum on "dressy" nights. Carnival is ...

  20. The Secret Code Word for a Cruise Ship Death

    Dara Starr Tucker, a former singer on a cruise entertainment team, said in a recent TikTok post that between four and 10 people die on each voyage, noting that the ships she worked on typically carried between 2,500 and 3,000 passengers at a time. That said, some cruise experts have pushed back on Tucker's estimated death count, saying there ...

  21. Upside Down Pineapple on Cruise Ships

    The upside-down pineapple symbol might be worn on a t-shirt, swimsuit, tote bag, badge or pin. Placing an upside-down pineapple decoration outside their cruise ship cabin door can be an invitation to join a swinger party. The meaning of upside-down pineapples is not limited to cruise ships, and can be seen in communities, resorts, campgrounds ...

  22. Secret Codes on Cruise Ships Only Crew Members Know!

    Code 7. Code 7 is one of the few codes meant for crew and passengers. If you hear a Code 7, it means that everyone aboard the ship must report to their muster stations. Muster stations are emergency meeting points, and you will be briefed on the process on your first day on the ship.

  23. Cruise Etiquette: Tips for Finding Peace and Quiet on Crowded Cruise Ships

    The world's largest cruise ship, ... (many a Reddit thread has been dedicated to cracking the code). When anticipating how crowded a cruise ship may feel, the total number of passengers onboard ...

  24. Carnival Cruise Ship Catches Fire

    Search City or Zip Code. 28. Today. Hourly. 10 Day. Radar. Video. Try Premium free for 7 days ... Fire Breaks Out On Cruise Ship 00:29. Next Up. If You See This, Smash It 00:40. Thousands Of ...

  25. 2 crew members die on cruise ship during 'incident' in the Bahamas

    FILE - A Holland America cruise ship is shown in Victoria, Canada on Saturday, April 9, 2022. Two crew members on a Holland America cruise ship died during an "incident" in the ship's ...

  26. What Do Categories Mean On Cruise Ships

    Categories on cruise ships refer to the different types of accommodations available to passengers. Just like hotels have room categories like standard, deluxe, and suites, cruise ships have their own classification system. This classification system helps passengers choose the type of cabin that best suits their needs, preferences, and budget.

  27. Port of Baltimore suspends ship traffic after bridge collapse: What it

    The ship's current cruise, which left for a planned round-trip sailing from Baltimore on March 24, will end in Norfolk on Sunday. Passengers will then receive free bus rides to Baltimore.

  28. 2 crew members killed on Holland America cruise ship during incident

    The cruise ship left Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on March 16 for a seven-night trip, according to the AP. ... Code enforcement denied entry at Charlotte Airbnb with $23 rooms.

  29. Baltimore bridge collapse: what we know about the bridge, ship and port

    Ship-tracking data showed a Singapore-flagged container ship, the Dali, at the location of the bridge where the accident occurred at about 1.30am ET (0530 GMT) on Tuesday.

  30. Ship lights flickered and veered off course shortly before Baltimore

    Baltimore's cruise terminal serves ships operated by Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian. Cruises carrying more than 444,000 passengers departed from the port last year.