Cruise health and safety: How to stay safe on your trip

• Getting sick: Cruise ships have lots of people in close spaces. This makes it easier for illnesses like gastroenteritis, COVID-19 and flu to spread.
• Food and water safety: Cruise lines work hard to keep food safe, but there can still be risks of food poisoning.
• Injuries and accidents: Slippery decks and crowded areas can cause falls and other accidents.
• Sun exposure: Being in the sun too long can cause sunburn or heat exhaustion.
• Motion sickness: The ship's movement can make some people feel sick.
• Security risks: Theft and other security issues can happen on the ship or during trips ashore.

• Practice good hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Use hand sanitisers when soap is not available, especially before meals and after touching shared surfaces.
• Stay informed: Pay attention to health advisories and safety instructions provided by the cruise line. Attend safety drills and familiarise yourself with emergency procedures.
• Choose your food wisely: Opt for freshly prepared meals and avoid foods that have been sitting out for extended periods. Drink bottled or purified water, especially when off the ship.
• Be mindful of your surroundings: Wear appropriate footwear to prevent slips and falls. Be cautious when navigating crowded areas or unfamiliar environments.
• Protect against sun exposure: Use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours. Stay hydrated to prevent heat-related illnesses.
• Prepare for motion sickness: If you're prone to motion sickness, consider bringing over-the-counter medication or natural remedies like ginger. Staying mid-ship and on lower decks can also help minimise the effects.
  
• Secure your belongings: Use the safe in your cabin to store valuables and be careful with your belongings, especially during shore excursions.
• Talk to a doctor: Before your trip, consult with a healthcare provider about vaccinations and medications that may be necessary for your destinations. Bring a basic first aid kit and any personal medications you may need.

If you get sick or injured during a cruise, the ship's medical team will typically take care of you. If your condition is too severe for onboard treatment, you might be taken to a hospital at the next port or evacuated while the ship is at sea.

Usually, the costs for any medical services or medication you receive will be charged to your room.

If you have an Allianz Travel Insurance policy, contact our 24/7 emergency assistance on +61 7 3305 7499 to let us know what’s going on. The earlier we know about a potential medical emergency, the more time we have to prepare for assistance. Ask the onboard doctor to keep us up-to-date on your condition.

The medical standard of care on the ship might not be the same as you expect in Australia, which could affect the quality of care and availability of medical equipment and medication. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, it’s a good idea to discuss the onboard medical facilities with the cruise operator before booking your cruise trip.

If you need to make a claim on your cruise trip, don’t worry, it’s easy to submit your claim online by following these simple steps:

1. Submit the claim form - Log in to the Travel Claims website using your Allianz Travel Insurance policy number, name and date of birth to complete the claim form.
2. Provide supporting documentation - You’ll need to provide documentation that supports your claim for us to assess it. You can upload this information or email us.
3. Wait for us to contact you - once we’ve received your claim form, we will be in touch within 10 business days to discuss.

Cruising is a wonderful way to see the world. By knowing the risks and taking steps to avoid them, you can enjoy your trip safely. Being prepared and careful during your trip will make your cruise a great adventure. Enjoy your journey!