Cruise FAQs
Your cruise questions answered — from first-timers to experienced cruisers. Updated April 2026.
Have questions about cruising? Whether it's your first cruise or your fiftieth, we have the answers.
Are cruises good for wheelchair users?
Cruises can be excellent for wheelchair users, as most modern cruise ships are designed with strong accessibility features including wide hallways, automatic doors, spacious accessible cabins with roll-in showers, and ramps or elevators to nearly all public areas. However, accessibility still varies by ship, tender ports can be challenging, and it's essential to book an accessible cabin well in advance.
Do cruise ships have doctors onboard?
Yes, virtually all ocean-going cruise ships are required by international maritime law to have at least one licensed doctor and medical staff onboard, with a fully equipped medical center capable of handling emergencies. Medical services are available 24/7, though visits are charged to your onboard account, making good travel insurance highly recommended.
Do cruise ships have dentists onboard?
Most large cruise ships do not have a dedicated dentist onboard. In cases of severe dental pain, the ship's doctors can provide temporary relief and will arrange urgent dental care at the next port. Handle any dental work before your cruise.
Do cruise ships provide irons & ironing boards?
Cruise ships do not provide irons in cabins for safety reasons. Most ships offer self-service laundry rooms with irons, or provide pressing services through your cabin steward. Pack wrinkle-resistant clothing or a travel steamer (allowed on most lines).
Do cruise ships provide curling irons?
Cruise ships do not provide curling irons or high-wattage styling tools in cabins. Most ships supply a low-wattage hair dryer. You are generally allowed to bring your own curling iron as long as it is not left unattended while hot.
Do cruise ships have hair dryers in the rooms?
Yes, virtually every cruise ship cabin includes a hair dryer. Newer ships often have powerful wall-mounted units, while older ships may have basic models in a drawer. If underpowered, ask your cabin steward — some ships keep higher-quality ones on request.
Do cruise ships allow guns onboard?
No, cruise ships do not allow passengers to bring any firearms onboard — zero exceptions, even for concealed-carry permit holders. Attempting to bring a firearm results in being denied boarding or immediate removal at the next port.
Do cruise ships have jails?
Yes, nearly all cruise ships have a small detention room called a "brig" used to temporarily confine passengers who commit serious offenses such as assault or theft. It is used as a last resort until the ship reaches port where local law enforcement takes over.
Do cruise ships have free WiFi or Internet?
Cruise ships do not offer truly free unlimited WiFi. Most lines charge $15–$40 per day for usable plans. Premium lines like Celebrity and Virgin Voyages sometimes include WiFi. Newer ships with Starlink have improved dramatically.
Do cruise ships have family rooms or suites?
Yes, nearly all mainstream cruise lines offer family accommodations from larger cabins sleeping 4–5 to multi-bedroom suites. Royal Caribbean's Ultimate Family Suite even includes an in-suite slide. These book quickly — reserve 12–18 months out for popular sailings.
Do cruise ships have free food?
Yes, cruise ships provide abundant free food around the clock — main dining rooms, buffets, poolside grills, pizza stations, and more are all included. You only pay extra for specialty restaurants, alcohol, and premium coffee bars.
Do cruise ships have fireworks?
Yes, Disney Cruise Line is the most famous for its nightly "Pirates Night" fireworks — the only line with regular permits at sea. Royal Caribbean and others occasionally schedule them on holiday sailings. Always weather-dependent and announced in advance.
Do cruise ships have gluten-free food?
Yes, all major cruise lines offer extensive gluten-free options. Notify them when booking or at least 30–60 days in advance. Gluten-free bread, pasta, pizza, and dedicated items are available in the main dining room and buffet.
Do cruise ships have ATMs?
Yes, almost every large cruise ship has at least one ATM, usually in the casino or near guest services. They charge steep fees — typically $5–$10 per withdrawal. It's much cheaper to bring cash or withdraw in port.
Do cruise ships have morgues?
Yes, all large ocean-going cruise ships are required to have a small morgue. Deaths from natural causes happen more often than most realize, and the facility ensures dignified handling of deceased passengers until the vessel reaches port.
Do cruise lines allow pets on a cruise ship?
No, mainstream cruise lines do not allow pets onboard. The only exceptions are fully trained service dogs and, on select lines, emotional support animals. The Cunard QM2 has real kennels for transatlantic crossings.
Do cruise lines search luggage before boarding?
Yes, every piece of luggage is X-rayed and physically screened before loading — exactly like at an airport. Security looks for prohibited items including weapons, excessive alcohol, irons, and drones. Consequences range from confiscation to being denied boarding.
Can cruise lines change your itinerary?
Yes, cruise lines can and frequently do change itineraries due to weather, mechanical issues, port closures, or operational decisions — and your contract gives them that right. Flexible travel insurance is the best protection.
Do cruise ships get bedbugs?
Yes, cruise ships can and occasionally do get bedbugs, introduced by passengers' luggage. Inspect mattress seams on embarkation day, keep luggage off the floor and bed, and unpack into drawers only after a quick check.
Do cruise ships get attacked by pirates?
It is extremely uncommon. Modern cruise lines plan routes to avoid high-risk regions, maintain onboard security teams, and receive guidance from international maritime authorities. The chance of encountering pirates is incredibly low.
Do cruise ships get cold at night?
Cruise ships can feel cooler at night on open decks due to sea breezes. Inside the ship, temperatures are carefully controlled with air-conditioning. Bringing a light sweater or jacket is usually enough for evening deck walks.
Can cruise ships tip over or sink?
Cruise ships are engineered with advanced stability systems that make tipping over or sinking extremely unlikely. Modern ships use stabilizers and weight distribution to remain balanced even in challenging conditions.
Can cruise ships handle rough seas?
Yes, cruise ships use large stabilizer fins that reduce rolling, and their size and weight help them ride over waves smoothly. Captains use advanced weather tracking to navigate around the worst conditions whenever possible.
Can cruise ships leave passengers behind?
Yes, cruise ships can and do leave passengers behind if they don't return before the all-aboard time. Always keep track of the all-aboard time and build in buffer time — the ship will not wait.
Do cruises include free flights?
Some cruises include flights through "fly-cruise" packages that bundle airfare, transfers, and the cruise. These can simplify planning and sometimes save money. You can also book flights separately for more flexibility.
Do cruises go on sale?
Yes, cruises absolutely go on sale. Cruise lines offer promotions throughout the year including seasonal sales, last-minute deals, and early-booking discounts. Perks like onboard credit, free upgrades, and reduced deposits are common.
What happens on a cruise if there is a hurricane or storm?
If a hurricane threatens the route, the captain will adjust the itinerary — changing course, skipping ports, or adding sea days. Advanced forecasting allows crews to plan well ahead. Safety is always the top priority.
What does a cruise ship do with human waste?
Cruise ships treat waste onboard through filtering, biological treatment, and UV sterilization before discharging treated liquid into the ocean more than three miles from shore. Solid waste is incinerated or offloaded at ports.
Where do cruise ship staff sleep?
Crew members sleep in small cabins on lower decks, often shared with roommates. Officers have single larger cabins while junior staff share bunk-bed cabins. All are designed to be efficient with limited space.
Are cruises safe?
Yes, cruises are generally very safe, with serious incidents being exceedingly rare. Modern ships are highly regulated, equipped with advanced safety systems, and staffed by extensively trained crews.
Do cruise ships provide soap and shampoo?
Yes, most cruise ships provide soap and a wall-mounted 2-in-1 shampoo/body wash. Suites often offer separate branded bottles. Many passengers still recommend bringing their own preferred products.
Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?
You don't always need a passport for a closed-loop cruise, but one is strongly recommended. A passport is required for open-jaw itineraries and cruises to Canada. It's also essential if you need to fly home in an emergency.
Do I have to dress up on a cruise?
No, most cruise lines have a casual atmosphere. Smart casual is appropriate for dinner. Formal nights exist on many ships but are not strictly enforced. Pack a few dressier options for evenings just in case.
How many cruise ships have sunk in the past 100 years?
Over 20 major cruise ships have sunk in the last 100 years, though the exact number varies by definition. Sinkings are rare but have sometimes resulted in significant casualties. Modern safety regulations have dramatically reduced the risk.
Do I need travel insurance for a cruise?
Travel insurance is not legally required but is strongly recommended. Standard US health insurance including Medicare often does not cover international travel. Without it you face significant financial risk from medical emergencies and trip cancellation.
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