Tips for Staying Healthy While Cruising

When you want a vacation to disconnect from real life while someone else does all the driving, a Caribbean cruise is an excellent idea. However, sharing common areas and close quarters with 3,000 of your fellow hodophiles can lead to a little germ-spreading and subsequent illness, especially if you don’t take the proper precautions. We’ve compiled some advice about how to stay healthy on a cruise so you can spend your trip seeing the sights instead of just the inside of your cabin.

How to Avoid Getting Sick on Your Cruise

There are various health issues on cruise ships that you cannot control, but you can safeguard yourself so you do not get sick on your cruise.

1. Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated supports your overall health: Begin by increasing your water intake a week before your trip. Throughout the voyage, drink water regularly—tap water on ships is usually safe to drink. This is especially important after spending time in the sun or doing physical activities. Remember, beverages like coffee or alcohol can contribute to dehydration, so balance them with plenty of water.

2. Wash Your Hands and Use Hand Sanitizer

After using the restroom, touching common surfaces like handrails or elevator buttons, or before eating, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and water aren't available, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol. However, understand that while sanitizers protect against many germs, handwashing is still more effective at eliminating pathogens like norovirus.

3. Eat Fresh, Cooked Foods to Stay Healthy on a Cruise

Minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses such as salmonella by choosing freshly prepared, thoroughly cooked foods, and be cautious with raw or rare dishes. At buffets, use the provided serving utensils to transfer food to your plate — do not use your hands. Furthermore, when dining off the ship during shore excursions, select restaurants that are known for handling food safely.

How to Stay Fit on Your Cruise

There are great opportunities to stay fit and healthy on a cruise ship and switch up your workout routine at the same time.

Stretch and Walk the Deck Every Morning

Wake up your body with a few minutes of simple stretching movements such as:

• Shoulder rolls
• Leg stretches
• Gentle twists
• Neck stretches
• Forward bends

After stretching, take a walk on the deck in the fresh sea air to boost circulation and increase your energy levels. Walking at a steady pace also helps with digestion and overall endurance.

Take the Stairs

Cruise ships have multiple decks, and using the stairs instead of the elevator is an easy way to stay active and give your legs and heart a solid workout. This small habit can improve endurance, strengthen muscles, and help counteract the effects of indulgent cruise meals. Plus, skipping the crowded elevators during peak hours can save you time while keeping you moving throughout the day.

Join a Fitness Class or Pool Activity

Cruise ships offer a variety of structured fitness activities, from yoga sessions to aqua aerobics, that make exercise fun and social. In addition, many classes are held on deck, letting you enjoy ocean views while staying active.

Group classes provide motivation and guidance, helping you stay committed to movement during your vacation. If you prefer something low-impact, pool activities like water volleyball are a great way to stay fit without straining your joints.

How to Keep Kids and Elderly Cruisers Healthy on a Cruise

If you’re traveling with generations or those who are more susceptible to illness or injury, help them take precautions so they can stay healthy on the cruise as well.

1. Encourage Children to Wash Their Hands

Teaching kids the importance of regular handwashing can help them (and others) not get sick on a cruise. Encourage them to wash their hands properly, especially before meals and after using the restroom. Make it fun with a game or a short song to ensure they wash thoroughly. Carrying travel-sized hand sanitizers can also be helpful for times when soap and water aren't readily available.

2. Plan Rest Breaks

Cruise vacations often involve numerous activities and excursions, which can be tiring for both children and seniors. Schedule regular rest periods, such as:

• Returning to your cabin for a short nap
• Relaxing in a quiet lounge
• Enjoying a leisurely meal

Getting enough rest helps prevent fatigue and allows everyone to fully enjoy the cruise experience without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Help Aging Companions Around the Ship

Cruise ships can be challenging to navigate, so accompany seniors when moving between different areas. Offer assistance as needed, particularly in crowded or narrow spaces, to help keep senior companions healthy on your cruise. Wearing comfortable, nonslip footwear can provide better stability on potentially slippery decks. Additionally, consider requesting accommodations like cabins near elevators or accessible dining options to minimize excessive walking.

How to Maintain Mental Well-Being on Your Cruise

Managing all the things you want to do on a cruise can also take a toll on your mental health, so make sure you’re making a little time for yourself.

Use Relaxation Techniques

Engaging in relaxation practices like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can significantly reduce stress and help you clear your mind. Many cruise ships offer structured mindfulness and meditation sessions as part of their wellness programs. Additionally, the calming effect of the ocean's rhythmic sounds and expansive views can naturally facilitate a meditative state, helping to quiet the mind and build focus.

Stay Connected with Loved Ones

Those adjusting to unfamiliar cruise and port environments and solo travelers can easily experience feelings of isolation. While on a cruise, use available communication options to keep in touch with family and friends. Sharing your experiences and staying connected can have positive effects on your mental health by enhancing your mood and overall well-being, reducing stress, and increasing resilience.

Participate in Social Events

Solo travelers can also significantly boost mental well-being by engaging in social activities onboard, such as group classes, themed parties, or workshops. These interactions provide opportunities to meet new people and foster a sense of community and belonging. Moreover, research indicates that social connections play an important role in mental health, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and depression.

How to Stay Safe on Your Cruise

Cruise ships are generally considered safe places, but it is still wise to take some precautions for your personal safety.

Secure Your Cabin

Keeping your cabin secure is essential and simple with these tips:

• Always lock your door when leaving or sleeping.
• Use the deadbolt for extra protection.
• Avoid propping your door open, even if stepping away briefly.
• Store valuables like passports, credit cards, and cash in the cabin safe rather than leaving them out in the open.

In addition, if you receive unexpected knocks at your door, verify the identity of the person before opening.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Overindulging in alcohol can impair judgment, increasing the chances of accidents or making you vulnerable to theft or assault. Pace yourself and enjoy your drinks without losing awareness of your surroundings. Stay with trusted companions, and never accept drinks from strangers. Hydrate and eat regularly to balance alcohol intake to help you not get sick on the cruise. If you feel unwell or overly intoxicated, return to your cabin or seek assistance from ship staff.

Be Cautious at Ports of Call

Exploring new destinations is one of the best parts of cruising, but it’s important to research each port ahead of time to understand safe areas, local customs, and common scams. Stick to well-populated areas, and avoid wandering alone, especially at night.

Also, keep valuables secure, avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics, and use official transportation services. Trust your instincts — if a situation feels unsafe, remove yourself immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Stay Healthy on a Cruise

Your vacation is not the time to worry about your wellness, so we’re sharing our answers to some concerns others have had about how to stay healthy on a cruise.

What should I pack to stay healthy on a cruise?

Pack essential items such as hand sanitizers, disinfectant wipes, a basic first-aid kit, over-the-counter medications for common ailments, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle to stay hygienic and healthy.

How can I make healthier food choices on a cruise?

Choose meals rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, and consider dining in venues that offer portion-controlled servings rather than buffets to manage intake effectively.

What are the best ways to manage motion sickness?

To prevent motion sickness, consider using over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or Bonine, wearing acupressure wristbands, choosing a mid-ship cabin, and spending time on deck focusing on the horizon to stabilize your senses.

Staying Healthy on Your Cruise Starts with Peace of Mind

While you’re taking steps to stay healthy on your cruise, don’t forget about keeping stressors to a minimum! Get peace of mind by knowing your vehicle is parked safely and securely in our indoor, climate-controlled facility just minutes away from your ship’s terminal. Reserve your spot with EZ Cruise Parking today.