u/primo_getaways

After three decades of sending people on cruises, these are the safety basics I wish everyone knew before sailing:

1. Learn your muster station on day one. Don't skip the safety drill, even if you've cruised before.
2. Lock your cabin door and use the deadbolt, especially at night.
3. Don't share your cabin number publicly — not in Facebook groups, not on social media.
4. Use the in-room safe for passports, extra cash, and jewelry.
5. Watch your drink. Same rules as on land — don't accept drinks from strangers, never leave yours unattended.
6. Stick with a buddy in port, especially in unfamiliar areas.
7. Set a phone alarm for all-aboard time — and aim to be back 30 minutes early. The ship will leave without you.
8. Wash your hands constantly. Norovirus spreads fast on ships. Keep sanitizer in your pocket.
9. Save the ship's emergency number in your phone. It's posted in your cabin — don't rely on memory in a panic.
10. Buy travel insurance. A medical evacuation at sea can run $50,000+. Cheapest peace of mind you'll ever buy.

What would you add? Curious what seasoned cruisers consider essential.