Cruise Line ads promise to be the ultimate vacation, carefree, carefree, relaxed and full of adventure. But, as many travelers have discovered, what is shown in the glossy pamphlets doesn't always match the reality on board. In fact, there are several important things that Cruise Lines are reluctant to disclose, which can have a major impact on their passenger experience.
Cruise's Gary Bembridge used tips from a YouTube channel for travelers to share five things passengers should know before embarking on a cruise.
1. Hidden Operators
Most passengers assume that the cruise line operates all aspects of the ship, but in reality, much of the experience is outsourced to a third-party company.
From medical services to spas, shops and art auctions, third-party contractors handle many onboarding activities. For example, major cruise lines such as Carnival and the Royal Caribbean run their own medical centres, while others such as Vikings and Virgin Voyages rely on companies such as Vikand and Marine Medical Solutions.
“If something goes wrong, the cruise line will not be held responsible,” warned Bembridge. Similarly, spas and retailers are typically run by external companies such as OneSpaworld and Starboard Cruise Services, with a constant sales pitch as staff earns fees.
2. Constant monitoring
Another truth that many people don't realize is how closely they are seen. “CCTV cameras are everywhere, and facial recognition technology tracks you across the ship,” explained Bembridge.
Beyond surveillance cameras in public areas, cruise lines use facial recognition to identify all passengers, from photos to onboard pursuit movements.
On some lines, such as Princess Cruises, passengers can wear devices that track their locations and crews can greet them by name. This will enhance service, but also raise privacy concerns, especially as some ships have cameras located to capture activities on private balconies.
3. Overboard detection
Many cruise ships don't have an automatic male outboard detection system that costs around $200,000 per ship. These systems use thermal cameras and radar to detect whether someone falls overboard, but there are only 30 ships.
“Without these systems, you may not notice the overboard situation until someone raises the alarm,” Bembridge pointed out.
4. Not all passengers are treated equally
Cruise policies vary greatly depending on where the passengers live. For example, US travelers booking Cunard Suites may receive drink packages, although not UK residents.
“There are different terms for people from different countries, and it can make a huge difference in pricing,” warned Bembridge.
5. Hidden Cruise Contract Clause
Finally, the cruise contract includes conditions that most passengers do not read. These include the rights for cruise lines to search for luggage, limit it to cabins, or change itinerary without compensation.
“You agree to use those images in marketing without compensation,” Bembridge said, “You will be photographed and use them in your marketing.”
Understanding these hidden truths will help travelers navigate the cruise experience with more realistic expectations. As Bembridge puts it, “it's always best to know what's under the surface before you set sail.”
