First-time cruisers have been warned that homemade food and streaming devices could be a safety hazard at sea.
Travel experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have revealed the seven items inexperienced cruisers may not know are dangerous if brought on board.
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With over 30 million passengers predicted to have sailed in 2023, cruising is booming and remains one of the fastest-growing sectors in tourism.
There is a 70% increase in travellers looking to take their first cruise, and experts are now emphasising the importance of packing carefully.
Holidaymakers who have never cruised before must ensure they don’t accidentally take prohibited items on board.
Taking items like travel irons and toy vehicles onboard as well as extension cables and some sports equipment are not allowed because they could be dangerous at sea.
John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com said: “We expect to see an increase in first-time cruisers heading out to sea this summer, and it is important they are all aware of the items they shouldn’t be taking onboard.
“Although no cruise lines have exactly the same rules, we wanted to share a guide to some of the items which are usually banned because they could be hazardous at sea.
“A fire starting on a cruise ship, or food contamination, could be devastating at sea, so it is important first-time cruisers do their research and avoid packing any unsafe or prohibited items.
“Streaming devices and homemade food are just some of the items which will not be allowed onboard because of the safety risks, so ensure they are not packed for your trip.”
Six surprising items which pose a risk at sea, according to StressFreeCarRental.com:
1. Irons and steamers
Avoid packing irons, travel irons and steamers because items which generate heat are prohibited from most cruises. They are fire hazards and could have potentially devastating effects with the combination of heat, electricity and cramped quarters. Instead, most ships provide public laundry services to maintain a safe environment.
2. Extension leads/cords
Aside from medical reasons, extension cords, power strips and surge protectors are usually prohibited under fire and safety regulations.
3. Streaming devices
Some cruise lines prohibit streaming devices, including the Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, and Google Chromecast, for the safety of guests on board as they are considered a fire hazard. If found in baggage during security screening they will be confiscated and result in a delay of luggage delivery on embarkation day.
4. Toy vehicles
If cruising with a little one, you’ll need to avoid packing remote-control toys, including things like toy cars, aeroplanes or even Star Wars droids. It may seem strange, but these electrical items could be a potential hazard to other guests, as well as a possible fire hazard.
5. Homemade food
First-time cruisers may be surprised to know that homemade food is banned on most cruises because of concerns over food safety and contamination prevention. If food is allowed on board, it usually has to be pre-packaged and unopened.
6. Sports gear
Many cruise companies have decided to ban sports gear as they deem it dangerous. Items like baseball bats, hockey sticks, and skateboards could potentially be used as weapons, and they pose a risk of injury.
