Staying Healthy on a Cruise: Tips for Smooth Sailing
A cruise vacation is all about fun—pool days, shore excursions, endless food, and late-night shows. The last thing you want is to spend part of it feeling under the weather. With thousands of passengers sharing the same ship, it’s smart to take a few precautions so you can focus on enjoying every moment.
Wash, Sanitize, Repeat
You’ll hear it from the crew and see it on signs all over the ship: wash your hands often. It sounds simple, but it’s your best defense against germs. Hand-sanitizing stations are everywhere—outside restaurants, near elevators, and before the buffet—so make use of them regularly.
Be Smart About Food and Drink
The buffet is a cruise highlight, but it’s also where lots of people gather and touch serving utensils. Grab a napkin to hold tongs, or hit up the made-to-order counters where food is prepared fresh. And don’t forget to stay hydrated—between sun, salt air, and maybe a cocktail or two, your body needs plenty of water.
Don’t Push Through Fatigue
Cruises are exciting, and it’s tempting to pack your days with activities from sunrise to midnight. But lack of rest can make you more susceptible to getting sick. Take a break when you need to—whether it’s a mid-afternoon nap in your cabin or just lounging on deck with a book.
Fresh Air Helps
Ships are huge, and it’s easy to spend hours indoors. Make it a point to get outside. A morning walk on the jogging track or a stroll along the promenade deck does wonders for your energy—and fresh ocean air feels amazing.
Listen to Your Body
If you do start feeling off, don’t ignore it. Cruise ships have medical centers, and crew members are trained to help. Sometimes resting in your cabin for a few hours can make all the difference and keep you from missing out on the bigger parts of your vacation.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, staying healthy on a cruise comes down to balance. Wash up, pace yourself, stay hydrated, and get outside. Do that, and you’ll set yourself up for smooth sailing—and a trip full of memories instead of missed moments.