The Cruise Lines International Association reports that global cruise passenger volume reached a historic high in 2025, with 37.2 million people taking cruises in the year. It can certainly be a magical time, enjoying the amenities while sailing across various countries.
However, these vessels are like mini-cities, and because everyone’s in close quarters, illnesses can quickly spread. In addition, healthcare emergencies can be harder to take care of while on the sea, so it’s important to be prepared ahead of time.
Here are the steps you should take to prepare for cruise health and safety.
Build a Pre-Sail Health and Medication Checklist
To make sure that small problems don’t become big ones on your trip, do a little health planning beforehand. For example, create a medication checklist that includes:
- Prescription drugs
- Over-the-counter medications
- Dosages
- Your prescribing clinician’s contact information
In addition, bring enough medication for the entire trip, as well as a little extra in case of delays.
You should also have copies of:
- Prescriptions
- Relevant medical records
- Vaccination documentation
- Insurance information
Make sure your copies are available both on paper and digitally. It’s also wise to have a final appointment at a hospital like South Shore Health before you leave so that you can address any concerns before boarding your cruise.
Prepare for Motion Sickness Before You Board
Many people get motion sickness, especially if they’re prone to nausea. Discuss preventive medications with your doctor ahead of time instead of waiting to get sick on the vessel.
Options can include:
- Prescription patches
- Oral medications
- Ginger
- Acupressure products
Choosing a cabin that’s closer to the middle of the ship and on a lower deck can also reduce motion sickness for some people. You should also plan to get fresh air and focus on the horizon, as well as avoid heavy meals or excessive alcohol.
Check Insurance, Evacuation Coverage, and Telehealth Access
Standard travel insurance may not necessarily give you the same protection as a policy that specifically addresses medical evacuation, so it’s important to review your current coverage before leaving. Details you should examine are:
- Emergency transportation
- Hospitalization
- Treatment outside your home country
- Evacuation from a ship or remote destination
It can also be beneficial to check whether your health plan or another service provides telehealth access while you’re traveling. Also, understand any exclusions, reimbursement requirements, and geographic restrictions.
Know the Ship’s Clinic and Healthcare Options at Port
Typically, cruise ships have medical facilities where guests can get their illnesses, injuries, and other health emergencies taken care of. However, they’re not substitutes for full hospitals. Find out where the onboard medical center is, when it operates, and how to contact it during an emergency.
While you’re onboard, you should also practice good hygiene habits. Not only can this help you reduce the chances of catching something, but it can also protect other passengers from getting ill.
Stay Safe and Healthy on Your Cruise
You’ve worked hard to save up for your trip, so don’t let it get ruined by health problems. Knowing how to prepare for your cruise can make it a much better time, and you’ll have peace of mind, too.
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