Seasick & Stressed? 18 Things to Know If You Get Sick on a Cruise

Cruise vacations are a fantastic way to relax and explore the world, but getting sick while at sea can quickly turn your dream trip into a stressful experience. Whether it’s a minor illness like seasickness or a more serious medical emergency, it’s important to know what to expect and how to handle the situation. Cruise ships have onboard medical facilities, but services can be costly, and in some cases, passengers may even need to be evacuated. Understanding the protocols, available treatments, and preventative measures can help you stay prepared and minimize disruptions to your vacation. Here’s everything you need to know if you get sick on a cruise ship, so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Most cruise ships are equipped with medical centers that have trained doctors and nurses available to assist passengers who fall ill. These facilities can handle a variety of minor medical issues, such as seasickness, colds, and minor injuries. While they may not be as advanced as a hospital, they are capable of stabilizing more serious conditions until further medical care can be arranged. It’s always a good idea to locate the medical center when you board the ship, just in case you need it later.

Medical care on a cruise ship is not included in your fare and can be quite expensive. Even a simple visit for seasickness medication or a mild fever could result in significant charges. If you require more advanced treatment, such as IV fluids or X-rays, the costs can add up quickly. It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses to avoid unexpected bills.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, don’t worry—cruise ships often provide seasickness remedies at no cost. Guest services or the medical center may have complimentary motion sickness pills, patches, or wristbands to help alleviate symptoms. Some ships even have fresh green apples and ginger tea, known natural remedies for nausea. To minimize discomfort, try booking a cabin in the middle of the ship where motion is less noticeable.

If you develop a contagious illness such as norovirus or COVID-19, the ship’s medical staff may require you to quarantine in your cabin. This is done to prevent the spread of illness to other passengers and crew members. Quarantine policies vary by cruise line, but they often include meal delivery and complimentary medical checkups. While it may be frustrating to miss out on activities, it’s essential to follow health protocols to keep everyone on board safe.

Cruise ships follow strict hygiene protocols to reduce the risk of illness outbreaks. High-contact areas such as handrails, elevator buttons, and buffet serving stations are frequently sanitized by crew members. Hand sanitizing stations are placed throughout the ship, and passengers are encouraged to use them often. Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands before meals, can help you avoid getting sick.

If you’re feeling unwell, you don’t have to worry about missing meals because most cruise lines offer room service. In some cases, if you’re required to quarantine, room service may even be complimentary. Crew members can deliver food, medications, and any necessary supplies to your cabin. This ensures you can rest and recover without putting other passengers at risk.

Cruise ships typically have a small selection of over-the-counter medications available for purchase. However, the inventory is limited and may not include specific prescriptions or specialized treatments. It’s always best to pack your own medications, including those for common ailments like headaches, colds, and allergies. If you require prescription medication, bring extra in case of travel delays.

Many modern cruise lines now offer telemedicine services, allowing passengers to consult with a doctor virtually. This can be a convenient alternative if you’re feeling unwell but don’t require an in-person visit to the medical center. In some cases, telemedicine consultations may be covered by your travel insurance. This option is especially helpful for minor illnesses, giving you peace of mind without the hassle of a trip to the ship’s doctor.

If you develop a severe illness or suffer a medical emergency while on a cruise, you may need to be evacuated. Cruise ships are equipped to handle many medical issues, but they lack the advanced facilities of a full hospital. If your condition is critical, you may be transferred to the nearest port with a hospital, or in extreme cases, evacuated by helicopter. This can be incredibly costly, making travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage a wise investment.

Many crew members on cruise ships undergo basic first-aid and CPR training. This means that if you experience a medical emergency away from the ship’s medical center, trained personnel can provide immediate assistance. They can also coordinate with the ship’s medical staff to ensure you receive proper care as quickly as possible. Having knowledgeable crew members on hand can be a lifesaver in critical situations.

Cruise vacations often involve long hours in the sun, alcohol consumption, and air-conditioned environments, all of which can lead to dehydration. If you’re feeling unwell, staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do to aid your recovery. Most ships provide complimentary water at dining areas, but you should also consider bringing a refillable water bottle to have hydration on hand at all times. Dehydration can make symptoms like headaches and fatigue worse, so drink plenty of fluids throughout your trip.

Medical treatment on a cruise ship is not covered by most health insurance plans. Even minor consultations and treatments can be surprisingly expensive. In serious cases, if you need to be hospitalized at a port or evacuated, the costs can skyrocket into the tens of thousands of dollars. Investing in travel insurance with medical coverage is one of the best ways to protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses while cruising.

Norovirus is one of the most common illnesses on cruise ships, causing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Because it spreads quickly in confined spaces, cruise lines take sanitation very seriously. Frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding buffet utensils touched by others can help reduce your risk. If you suspect you have norovirus, you may be required to quarantine to prevent spreading it to fellow passengers.

If there’s a contagious outbreak on board, the cruise line may alter the itinerary to protect passengers and crew. Ships may skip ports with limited medical facilities or reroute to destinations with better healthcare access. While this can be frustrating, it’s done for the safety of everyone on board. Travel insurance that covers trip interruptions can help mitigate the financial impact of such changes.

Drinking alcohol while feeling unwell can make your symptoms worse. Alcohol dehydrates the body, which can intensify headaches, nausea, and dizziness. If you’re experiencing any signs of illness, it’s best to avoid alcohol until you fully recover. Opt for water, electrolyte drinks, or herbal tea to help your body heal faster.

Before your cruise, make sure you have a list of emergency contacts, including your doctor, travel insurance provider, and any necessary medical facilities at ports of call. In the event of an emergency, having this information readily available can save time and reduce stress. Some cruise lines allow passengers to register emergency contacts during check-in, making it easier for staff to reach out if needed. Always carry a printed copy in case your phone runs out of battery.

Certain destinations have strict health regulations that may prevent sick passengers from disembarking. If you have symptoms of a contagious illness, port authorities could deny you entry to protect public health. In some cases, you may need a medical clearance from the ship’s doctor before being allowed to go ashore. If this happens, use the extra time to rest and recover before continuing your vacation.

The best way to avoid getting sick on a cruise is to take proactive steps before and during your trip. Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and use hand sanitizer when necessary. Staying up to date on vaccines, such as flu and COVID-19 shots, can help protect you from common cruise ship illnesses. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring you stay healthy and enjoy your vacation.

While no one wants to get sick on a cruise, being informed and prepared can make all the difference in how smoothly you handle the situation. From packing essential medications to knowing the costs of onboard medical care, a little preparation goes a long way. Prioritizing hygiene, staying hydrated, and having travel insurance can help protect both your health and your wallet. If you do find yourself feeling unwell, the ship’s medical team is there to assist and guide you through the best course of action. By taking the right precautions, you can focus on enjoying your cruise and making unforgettable memories.