The recent disaster aboard the
m/s Costa Concordia has sparked intense interest in cruising safety, yet very few cruise lines offer specific safety advice. To address this serious void, travel expert and veteran cruiser Mike Thiel, Founder and President of Hideaways International, Inc. (
Hideaways.com) shares his must-know tips for cruising safely. Says Thiel, "I first cruised at five years old and, in all the cruising I've done in the decades since, I've never experienced a situation that was truly serious or life-threatening. And yet I always expect the unexpected when I cruise, and I've developed my own safety checklist."
1. Think Small When You Plan a Cruise
For safety, as well as a number of other reasons—like an overall higher-level experience—consider cruise lines that specialize in smaller ships, anywhere from 100 to about 1,000 passengers. These ships usually have a higher crew-to-guest ratio (that means better service and more trained crew), and likely the crew aboard smaller vessels are a tighter-knit group with less turnover, so they probably have a greater familiarity with the ship and each other. Besides, in an emergency situation, less—people, that is—is more.
2. Choose a Cabin Strategically
Opt for a cabin or suite near a set of stairs (in an emergency, you won't be using the elevator) and toward the middle of the ship—the higher the deck, the better. That way you can evacuate more quickly if necessary. Besides, being central on the ship and near stairs and elevators will make it easier to get around under normal circumstances.
3. Prepare a "Ditch Bag"
Before you leave, pack a small bag with items that will be useful in an emergency. The bag can be as small or smaller than your toiletries kit, even a zip-lock bag, but it is best if it's a bright color to be easily identifiable in your luggage or a drawer. Stow it in your check-on luggage with these three key items (the fourth is for checked baggage only).
1. A small waterproof flashlight (preferably the LED type) with fresh batteries.
2. A small, lightweight, and waterproof strobe light such as those used by kayakers to help searchers spot you, day or night, in an emergency.
3. A simple police whistle to signal with. Note many personal flotation devices (PFDs) are already equipped with a whistle and strobe light, but why take a chance?
4. A Swiss Army knife or Leatherman multi-tool—either could be a lifesaver in an emergency and also can come in handy for other things around your cabin, like opening a bottle of wine. Just remember, it must be in your checked baggage.
4. Pack Smart
If you have to go in the water, hypothermia is a big worry, especially if you're wearing cotton. If you have time to change clothes, don a synthetic polypro or similar T-shirt and a synthetic fleece vest. Worn under your PFD, they will act as a sort of wet suit and keep your body core warmer. A shell windbreaker on top will add to your protection and even is good for strolls around deck at night when it can be chilly.
5. Familiarize Yourself with the Lay of the Ship
After settling into your cabin, take some time to read the safety information on the back of your cabin door. Familiarize yourself as soon as possible with the layout of the ship. The exercise will be good for you, and you'll have the lay of the ship down so you won't waste as much time and energy getting to the dining room, the gym, or the spa during the early days of your cruise. Do show up promptly for the safety muster (it must be held within 24 hours of sailing). On most ships, it's held either the evening of sailing, before cocktail hour, or, if a late sailing, the next morning after breakfast.
"Beyond these suggestions, I encourage you to just relax and enjoy as much pampering as you can on your cruise," says Thiel. "You surely deserve it."
About Mike Thiel
Mike Thiel founded Hideaways International™ in 1979. Over the last three decades, he has traveled the world sampling its best lodgings and travel experiences, and has become a sought-after guest on radio and television news and talk shows across the country.
Thiel first cruised at five years of age on the
s/s Queen Mary; in the decades since, Thiel has cruised on the smallish ships of Star Clippers, Windstar, and SeaDream, and on the mid-size ships of lines like Silversea, Regent, and many more. Thiel considers cruising a favorite vacation experience and a very safe way of enjoying the world.
To arrange an interview with Mike Thiel—for additional insight on cruising safety, or cruising in general—contact Gail Richard at 603-430-4433, ext. 112, or
pr@hideaways.com.
About Hideaways International™
Hideaways International, Inc., which operates the Hideaways Aficionado® Club, has been seeking the best-of-kind and the out-of-the-ordinary for its savvy, discerning, and well-traveled members for more than three decades. Members, who hail from around the world, range from notable celebrities, musicians, publishers, authors, captains of industry, and politicians to ordinary folks with extraordinary taste. All are part of this lively community with a passion for travel away from the madding crowds.
For more information, visit
Hideaways.com or contact Gail Richard at 603-430-4433, ext. 112, or
pr@hideaways.com.