Jayestravellingadventures

My grandparents took all 12 of us on our first cruise in 2004, and there was never any real concerns regarding our safety. Being such a large group the adults were quite comfortable.

I was a very independent and string minded 4yrs old so typically all eyes and focus was usually on me. I still am alive today and I have cruised since with my niece when she was 2yrs old.

Will my children be safe?

This is possibly the first question which pops into any parents head when booking a cruise for the first time. They are hard to put into perspective with the size of the ships, modern cruise ships are commonly described as floating cities.

When you hear about people “falling” off cruise ships, they are mainly adults. You never heard about children “falling” overboard. There are always hidden factors such as: alcohol, behaving reckless etc.

Any open space on the cruise ship has barriers which are chest height for a 5ft4 (162cm) person, with some being double stacked. Meaning it is nearly impossible to fall overboard.

There is a possibility for children to move furniture to be able to climb over, this should as always be the parents duty to watch your children closely (unless at a children’s club).

Should I book a balcony cabin?

Every parent is different so a balcony might not suit you or your budget. However, most balcony cabins have sliding doors which are heavy, they lock from the inside and they often have a extra bolt higher up for additional security. They can be difficult for adults to open.

You can buy a well valued door alarm which will go off when a door handle turns alerting you to the possible danger.

Balcony railings are at least 42 inches/ 106 cm and made of plexiglass or solid. They meet or exceed the height standards set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

It is common sense that children should never be left unattended or unsupervised on a balcony. Any one who is shorter than 5ft (152cm) tall is very very difficult to “fall” over the railing. If this is something you will still worry about there are options such as an Ocean View Cabin or an Inside Cabin.

My cousin gets an inside cabin as they have 2 children and are hardly in the cabin for the duration of the holiday whereas, my sister gets a balcony cabin with my niece as they like to sit outside and relax more on sea days.

Are there safety barriers around the ship?

Yes, the ship is surrounded by barriers which are mostly plexiglass and some are higher than me. One the top desks they are commonly double staked to act as wind breakers for any sunbathers.

There are safety barriers EVERYWHERE on a cruise ship.

What about the promenade decks?

Traditionally most cruise ships have a promenade deck what are closer to the water line and can lap around the ship. Life boats are commonly located on this desk as well as other mechanical equipment.

The whole promenade deck has a barrier protecting you from the water and can be closed off if conditions are rough due to safety. Onboard P&O’s Iona and Arvia three are some controversial balcony cabins which are located on the promenade deck, which can be a safe option for children.

Anything else?

• Some cruise lines give all children a wristband to wear which can have their muster station, cabin number etc. incase of an emergency whilst they are in the children’s club or not with their parents. Other cruise lines have electronic wristbands which track the children onboard incase they go missing.
• Be careful around the pool, floors can become slippery as well as slightly choppy depending on the sea conditions. There maybe lifeguards however this is not guaranteed so always keep a close eye on the children. (When we were children my mum and auntie who were life-guards use to always keep an eye on the pool as they were not manned).
• Don’t forget common sense, treat a cruise just like a land holiday. Barriers are there for safety but you shouldn’t neglect your responsibility.
• Always be familiar with your cabin location so everyone can get back safety is separated. (Staff are always happy to help)
• Encourage children to approach any crew member and ask for help if needed.
• Children should not climb on or sit on to the barriers and always be extra cautious when close to the ships edge.

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