First time cruisers

Ahoy there, landlubbers! Are you ready to set sail on a journey through the fascinating world of nautical greetings?

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just a curious land-dweller, learning these 20 nautical greetings will not only impress your seafaring friends but also add a touch of adventure to your daily conversations.

From the classic “Ahoy” to the playful “Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum,” these greetings have a rich history and culture that spans centuries.

Who knows, you may even find yourself using them on your next cruise! So, hoist the colours, grab a bottle of rum, and let’s dive into the world of nautical greetings!

1. Ahoy

Meaning “hello” or “hey there” in nautical language, “Ahoy” is a classic and versatile nautical greeting that can be used to say hello or get someone’s attention on a ship.

This is probably the most popular and well-known of all of the nautical greetings used on ships. If you want to sound more like a pirate, you could say “Ahoy, me hearties” or “Ahoy matey”.

“Hoy” began as a middle English greeting. It was derived from the Dutch word “hoi”, meaning “hi”.

2. Avast

This is a command that means “stop” or “hold on” in nautical language. You can use it to halt activity on board, get someone’s attention, or pause a conversation.

It’s popular with ship captains and officers, but anyone can use it to assert authority or give commands. It’s appropriate to say in most situations, but it’s important to use it in the right context to avoid confusion or misunderstanding.

3. Aye aye

This is a response that means “yes” or “I understand” in nautical language. You can use it to acknowledge a command or order from a superior officer, show respect for authority, or simply add a touch of nautical flair to your conversations.

It’s popular with sailors and seafarers (and, of course, pirates) who value discipline and tradition, and it’s a great way to show your commitment to the ship and its crew. It’s generally considered appropriate to say in most situations.

4. Fair winds and following seas

This is a farewell or well-wishing phrase that means “may you have good luck and a smooth journey”.

You can use it to bid farewell to your fellow sailors, wish them luck on their cruise, or simply express your love for the sea. It’s popular with sailors and seafarers who value camaraderie and adventure, and it’s a great way to show your appreciation for your fellow crew members. It’s appropriate to say in most situations, although you may sound a little strange.

5. Full steam ahead

This is a command meaning “go forward at full speed” in nautical language. The phrase comes from the era of steam-powered ships, which used steam engines to power their propellers and move through the water.

When a ship’s engine was running at full power, it was said to be “at full steam,” meaning that it was producing the maximum amount of steam and energy possible. The phrase “full steam ahead” was used as a command to the engine room to maintain or increase the ship’s speed, and was often used in times of urgency or emergency.

Over time, the phrase “full steam ahead” came to be used more generally to refer to any kind of effort or activity that was being pursued with maximum energy and enthusiasm. You can use this term to show enthusiasm for a project or task. It’s popular with ship captains and officers, but anyone can use it to motivate themselves or their team.

6. Godspeed

The word “Godspeed” means “may God give you success and protection”. It’s popular with sailors and seafarers who value spirituality and tradition and is often used when saying goodbye as a well-wishing phrase.

It comes from the Middle English phrase “God spede,” which was a common farewell greeting in the 15th and 16th centuries.

The word “speed” in this context means “success” or “prosperity,” and the addition of “God” to the phrase was a way of invoking divine assistance and protection. The phrase was often used by sailors and seafarers who were embarking on long and dangerous voyages, and was a way of expressing their hope for a safe and successful journey.

Over time, the phrase “Godspeed” came to be used more generally to express good wishes or blessings for someone who is embarking on a new venture or journey. It’s a symbol of hope, encouragement, and belief in a higher power that can guide and protect us during times of uncertainty and challenge.

7. Hail

This is a general greeting that means “hello” or “greetings”. You can use it to greet your fellow sailors, announce your presence on board, or simply add a touch of nautical flair to your conversations, but it’s not that commonly used outside of formal situations.

8. Happy sailing

“Happy sailing” or even “happy cruising” is a nice phrase to say to someone when they’re planning a voyage or about to embark on a ship.

9. Heave ho

Meaning “put your weight into it” or “pull harder”, this is often used as a command to exert more effort. It comes from the noise that you might naturally make when lifting something heavy such as hoisting a sail.

10. Hello, sailor

This is a playful greeting that’s often used to flirt or show interest in someone that you like. Of course, they don’t need to be a sailor for you to say this. It can be a good ice-breaker when meeting new people on a cruise.

11. Hoist the colours

“Hoist the colours” is a nautical command that means to raise the ship’s flag or colours. It comes from the practice of sailing ships flying flags to identify themselves and communicate with other ships at sea.

Each ship had its own unique flag, or “colours,” that were raised on a flagpole or masthead. The colours were used to signal the ship’s nationality, allegiance, or purpose, and were an important part of naval tradition.

12. Land ho

This is an announcement that means “land is in sight”. It may be used as an announcement when land is spotted. Sometimes, people may say “land ahoy” instead.

Some historians believe that the phrase may have been used by Viking explorers during their voyages to the New World. The Vikings were known to use lookout towers, or “hólar,” to spot land from a distance, and may have used the phrase “hó” or “hólar” to alert their fellow sailors to the presence of land.

Another theory is that the phrase may have originated from the Dutch word “hoog,” meaning “high,” which was used to describe the appearance of land on the horizon. This theory suggests that the phrase “land ho” may have been a shortened form of “land hoog,” meaning “land high,” or “land in sight.”

Regardless of its origin, the phrase “land ho” has become a popular and iconic nautical expression, and is still used today by sailors and seafarers to announce the sighting of land.

13. Ship ahoy

This is an announcement that means “a ship is in sight”. You can use it to alert your fellow cruisers to the presence of another ship. It’s always fun to try to be the first to identify any other ships that you see at sea alongside yours or in the distance.

14. Smooth sailing

This a farewell or well-wishing phrase that means, “May you have an easy and trouble-free journey”. It refers to the desire for the sea to be smooth, as nobody likes a rough sea with high waves!

You can use it to bid farewell to your fellow sailors, wish them luck on their journey, or simply express your hope for their safety and well-being.

15. Splice the mainbrace

“Splice the mainbrace” is a nautical command that means to issue an extra ration of alcoholic beverages to the crew!

In the past, sailors were often given a daily ration of rum or other spirits as part of their pay, which was known as a “tot.” However, on special occasions such as holidays, victories, or other notable events, the captain might order an extra ration of spirits for the crew as a reward or celebration.

The phrase “splice the mainbrace” specifically refers to the practice of splicing, or repairing, the mainbrace, which is the largest and most important rope on a ship. The mainbrace was used to control the ship’s sails and was essential for navigation and manoeuvring. Splicing the mainbrace was a difficult and time-consuming task that required skill and expertise, so it was often used as a way to reward the crew for their hard work and dedication.

Today, the phrase “splice the mainbrace” is still used in the British Royal Navy and other navies as a ceremonial command to issue an extra ration of spirits to the crew. It’s also used more generally to refer to any kind of celebration or reward for hard work and achievement.

16. Three sheets to the wind

“Three sheets to the wind” is a nautical expression that means a person is very drunk or intoxicated. This is what you’ll be if you’re not careful with your drinks package!

The phrase comes from the practice of sailing ships, which used sheets, or ropes, to control the sails. If a sheet was not secured properly, it could cause the sail to flap uncontrollably in the wind, which was known as being “in the wind.”

If three sheets were in the wind, it meant that all three of the ship’s sheets were loose and flapping in the wind, causing the ship to drift aimlessly and uncontrollably. This was a dangerous situation for the ship and its crew, and was often used as a metaphor for a person who was out of control or directionless.

Over time, the phrase “three sheets to the wind” came to be associated with drunkenness. Today, the phrase is still used to describe someone who is very drunk, and has become a popular and well-known expression both inside and outside of the nautical world.

17. Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum

“Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum” is a well-known phrase from the song “Fifteen Men on a Dead Man’s Chest,” which was originally a sea shanty sung by sailors and seafarers. The phrase is often associated with pirates and the swashbuckling adventures of the high seas.

The phrase itself is a playful and rhythmic expression that combines the pirate’s call of “yo ho ho” with the idea of drinking a bottle of rum. It suggests a sense of revelry, adventure, and danger, and has become a popular symbol of the pirate lifestyle.

Related posts:

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

Cruise ships are epic, magnificent feats of engineering. But how are such incredible ships, which are often huge, launched in the first place?

You might’ve wondered this when standing atop a deck of the biggest ships on the ocean, or you might just have an interest in shipbuilding.

In this guide, I’ll explain the different ways that ships can be launched, and which method is primarily used for cruise ships.

The different ways ships can be launched…

There are four main ways that ships can be launched into the water. Two of those only really apply to smaller ships, though.

1. Mechanical launching

Mechanical launching involves using a crane to lift a boat or small ship, and then move it into the water. Imagine trying to do this with a cruise ship!

2. Air bag launches

Some boats and small ships are launched by placing air bags underneath, inflating them, and then using that cushion of air to slide a ship into the water.

The two methods above aren’t possible with most cruise ships. There’s not a crane in the world that could lift a completed cruise ship, nor can airbags lift that much weight.

3. Gravitational launching

Gravitational launching is a method used for cruise ship-sized vessels, but not really with actual cruise ships these days.

This method involves transporting the ship to the side of the water, if that wasn’t where it was built, and then using sliders to slide the ship into the water at the side.

The momentum causes the entire ship to plunge into the water, before it rights itself just in time to avoid taking water on from the top deck.

It’s messy and dramatic, and it risks damage to the ship because of the pressure placed on it by the sudden force of water.

It looks cool on YouTube videos, though.

4. Floating out

The fourth method is possibly the most boring, but it is by far the most sensible for cruise ships. Cruise ships are ‘floated out’.

How floating out works

Cruise ships are launched into the water using the float out technique. This means the cruise ship is built in a special dry dock – an open dock area which has been drained. Once the ship is ready, the dock is flooded with sea water and the ship simply floats out.

While the actual launching of the ship is therefore low on drama, it’s often accompanied by a lot of pomp – cruise ships are expensive and so cruise lines like to celebrate each stage of their building journey.

Here’s an example from when Disney Wish was floated out – it’s Disney, so of course there are multiple sets of fireworks:

In terms of the safety of the ship, floating a ship out really is the best way. The ship is just positioned on a dry space and then, once that dock is flooded, it naturally begins to float. There’s no risk of waves crashing against it, or shock forces. The supports holding the cruise ship upright don’t move, and the ship just naturally raises from them.

Obviously, for this type of launch to work, you need a lot of space, and so dry docks are limited to just a handful of shipyard locations around the world.

Here’s a look at the biggest ship in the world, Icon of the Seas, floating out for the first time. It involved 219 million litres of water, which took 9 hours to fill the dock.

Cruise ship float outs, step-by-step

Here’s a quick run-down of how cruise ship float outs work.

1. Cruise ships are built in a large dry dock, using support structures to make sure they stay upright. It’s always interesting to see photos of a cruise ship out of water – it doesn’t look right.
2. Once the outer shell is completed and the ship is judged to be sea-ready, the float out begins.
3. The dock is flooded using seawater. This is a slow process that is often done overnight.
4. Once the dock is flooded, the ship will begin to float.
5. The ship is then dragged into position, often out of the hangar where it was built, using tugboats. The ship’s engines are not usually used at this stage.
6. Once the ship is in the new correct position for construction to continue, it is anchored and secured in place.

Construction will then carry on until the ship is almost ready for passengers. She’ll then be sent on sea trials while final fixtures are added.

That’s the practical side of a float out, but there may be other ceremonial steps involved too. Again, this is seen as quite the important stage in a cruise ship’s life.

So often, speeches will be given by the CEO of the cruise line, or another senior staff member. The ship’s godmother may also be present, and a bottle of Champagne may be smashed against the hull. This will be repeated at the naming ceremony too.

Depending on the ship and the stage of the build, the senior dignitaries may take in the float out from the dock at the side of the ship, or they may board and witness it from the current top deck.

Cruise ships are often finished off in the water

The initial steps of a cruise ship build don’t happen in the water. They happen in a dry dock, which has been drained. Once the exterior of the ship is complete and the ship can be floated, the dock will be flooded, the ship floated out, and construction will continue.

So, ships are partially built while they’re in the water. It may be that the ship needs to be moved to a new location to fit specialist features, or it just has to be outdoors to allow for larger works to be carried out on the ship.

This means that ships are typically floated out as soon as they’re ready. The dry docks will have limited space for just the shell of the ship, and when that is intact and seaworthy, the ship is floated into a bigger area to make it easier to fit the ship with the next building blocks.

Read more: How Long Does It Take To Build A Cruise Ship?

Once a ship has been floated out, it will stay in the water almost permanently. The only difference is when she may need to undergo extensive repairs or renovations, such as Royal Caribbean’s Amplification Program.

When this happens, she’ll return to the shipyard for another dry dock. She’ll be positioned above support structures, and the water will be slowly drained until the ship is sitting on dry land.

The repair work will be carried out, and then the dock will be flooded again, ready for the ship to float out and resume service.

Final word

The process of launching a cruise ship is not so dramatic compared to some other large ship launches. Float outs are quite complex, and they require a dedicated space large enough to house the whole ship – which is why other large ships still stick with the gravitational launches.

The floating out process keeps the cruise ship in perfect condition, with no risk of damage, meaning these incredible investments that cost hundreds of millions of dollars (or into the low billions) are properly looked after and kept pristine for their first guests.

Related posts:

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

Are you ready to set sail on a cruise adventure, but feeling a bit confused or overwhelmed by all the deck names?

Don’t worry, I’m here to help! From the Sun Deck to the Riviera Deck, each deck on a cruise ship has its own unique name and purpose.

But why are they called what they’re called, and what can you expect to find on each one?

1. Sun Deck

The Sun Deck is typically the highest deck on a cruise ship. It’s used for sunbathing, lounging, and enjoying the panoramic views of the ocean. It’s called the Sun Deck because it’s the best place to soak up the sun!

2. Lido Deck

The Lido Deck is usually the main outdoor deck on a cruise ship, and is home to the ship’s pools, hot tubs, and outdoor bars. Sometimes, people just call this the ‘pool deck’.

Lido is a fancy word for ‘outdoor pool’. But did you know that the word ‘lido’ comes from the name of the Lido di Venezia district in Venice, Italy? The town is an island and its name comes from the Latin word ‘litus’, ‘meaning shore’.

3. Sports Deck

This deck is usually located near the top of the ship towards the aft. It’s used for sports and fitness activities like basketball, golf nets and the jogging track. It’s called the Sports Deck because it’s where you’ll find all of the ship’s sports facilities.

Most cruise ships have outdoor sports courts, but some do have indoor sports halls instead.

4. Promenade Deck

The Promenade Deck (or Prom Deck for short) is a wide, outdoor deck that wraps around the entire ship. It’s used for strolling and enjoying the ocean views. It’s called the Promenade Deck because promenade is a word meaning ‘walk’.

Not all cruise ships have promenade decks, and even when they do, they don’t always wrap all the way around the ship.

One of the best promenade decks can be found on P&O Cruises ships, Iona and Arvia. These ones each have eight whirlpool jacuzzis on them, as well as an outdoor bar, dining areas, lots of sun loungers and some of the most controversial balcony cabin designs.

5. Bridge Deck

The Bridge Deck is the deck where the ship’s bridge is located. The bridge is usually off-limits to passengers unless you’re lucky enough to book a behind-the-scenes ship tour.

The term ‘Bridge Deck’ isn’t used all that much in reality. While it refers to the deck from which the ship’s captain and crew navigate the ship, that’s just the front section. The rest of the deck is just a normal deck and usually has cabins on it.

6. Landing Deck

This is the deck that you use to get on and off a cruise ship. However, it’s not always the same deck!

Depending on the tides, a ship may sit higher or lower in relation to the dock at different times. At some ports, the gangway will be open and quite short, whereas at others it will be a long closed tunnel that takes you into the terminal building.

So some days you may disembark from Deck 3 and on other days you may disembark from Deck 5. In the photo below, you can see that you can get on and off the ship on two different decks.

7. Poop Deck

Modern cruise ships don’t have poop decks, but I’m including it here because people often wonder what it is! And no, it’s nothing to do with actual poop!

A “poop deck” is a term that was commonly used in the past to refer to a deck that’s located at the aft (rear) of a ship, above the main deck. The poop deck was typically used by the ship’s officers as a high point for observation and navigation.

As for why it’s called a “poop” deck, there are a few theories. One theory is that the term comes from the French word “la poupe,” which means stern or rear.

Another theory is that it comes from the Latin word “puppis,” which also means stern.

However, there is also a more humorous theory that the name comes from the fact that the deck was located at the rear of the ship, where the smell of the ship’s waste (or “poop”) would be carried away by the wind. While this theory is not supported by historical evidence, it has become a popular explanation for the name.

Read more about poop decks.

Other deck names

Cruise ship decks typically have numbers, but some decks also have names. These names are specific to the ship and each has its own meaning.

For example, on MSC Grandiosa, the decks are named after famous artists such as Monet and Van Gogh, whereas on Costa Deliziosa the decks are named after ornamental flowers such as Petunia and Azalea.

There are some deck names that are common across several different ships. These include:

• Riviera Deck
• Sky Deck
• Atlantic Deck
• Empress Deck
• Marina Deck
• Vista Deck
• Panorama Deck

However, these names don’t particularly mean anything more than the obvious. The Sky Deck is likely to be the top deck, the Vista Deck or Panorama Deck will have great views and so on.

When it comes to choosing your cabin, the deck that you pick definitely matters and some decks are much better than others.

To find out which decks you should avoid for cabins on a cruise ship, be sure to read my guide to The Best and Worst Decks on Cruise Ships. This will help you to avoid any noisy locations or those that might make you feel particularly seasick.

Related posts:

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

Cruising has undergone significant changes in recent years, leaving many passengers feeling disappointed and nostalgic for the golden days of luxury at sea.

From reduced services to extra charges, cruise lines have implemented various cutbacks that leave cruisers grumbling.

Let’s dive into the seven most disappointing trends that have everyone talking about cruise cutbacks.

1. The Return of In-Person Muster Drills

Remember when muster drills were a quick and painless part of embarking on your cruise adventure? You could just watch a short video on your stateroom TV, then quickly scan your card at your assigned muster station?

Well, many cruise lines have reintroduced in-person muster drills, ending the brief era of digital convenience brought on by the pandemic. This change has been met with mixed reactions from passengers, to say the least.

The complaints often centre around poor organisation and overcrowding, with passengers feeling that their precious holiday time is being squandered. ‘ChiefMateJRK’ on Cruise Critic didn’t mince words when describing the return to in-person drills as “a wasted 40 minutes of my life that I will never get back.”

I too experienced one of the most depressing muster drills ever on Ambassador Cruise Line. We had to stand outside on the deck for at least 30 minutes, with no chairs available for any of the older or larger people who appeared to find the experience uncomfortable.

When the muster drill started, with so many people crowded around it was impossible to see the life vest demonstration properly anyway.

2. Reduced Choice and Lower Quality Food In the Dining Rooms

One of the most significant areas of discontent is the noticeable decline in dining options and food quality over the years. Many cruise passengers have reported a reduction in menu choices and a drop in the overall culinary experience, particularly in main dining rooms and buffets.

A Royal Caribbean passenger expressed their disappointment on Cruise Critic, noting a “significant drop in quality compared to pre-COVID experiences” on the Grandeur of the Seas.

Another cruiser claimed that their dining experience on Navigator was “the worst we’ve experienced” compared to six previous Royal Caribbean cruises.

The cutbacks seem to go beyond just quality. Cruisers have pointed out the disappearance of higher-cost items from menus, such as lamb chops. It’s clear that cruise lines are tightening their belts, but at what cost to passenger satisfaction?

Cheese boards, once a symbol of indulgence, are now often served pre-plated, taking away the fun of selection and presentation. Even luxury touches, like the beloved port-infused Stilton cheese, have been removed from some cruise lines’ offerings. 

These changes have left many cruisers feeling shortchanged, especially when cruise fares haven’t necessarily decreased to reflect these cutbacks.

3. Housekeeping Reductions

The days of returning to a freshly made bed and spotless bathroom twice a day seem to be behind us. Many cruise lines have reduced their housekeeping services from twice daily to once daily, a change that hasn’t gone unnoticed by passengers.

On Cruise Passenger, Lissete expressed her preference for evening cleaning: “I don’t mind once daily, but I’d like it to be done while we’re at dinner… I like coming back to a fresh bed and bath when turning in at night.”

This reduction in service is also placing more pressure on the room stewards. “kelkel2” on Cruise Critic highlighted the increased workload: “I think the room stewards have to be some of the hardest-working individuals on the ship.”

Many passengers have noticed that stewards are now responsible for more rooms, leading to a decline in the personal touches that once made cruising feel so special.

The loss of nightly turndown service, complete with towel animals and chocolates on pillows, has been particularly hard for long-time cruisers to swallow. These small gestures once contributed significantly to the feeling of being pampered on holiday.

4. Nickel-and-Diming

One of the most frustrating trends is the introduction of fees for services that were once complimentary. Room service, for example, now often comes with a charge.

Princess Cruises is just one of the lines that has implemented this change, much to the chagrin of passengers who enjoyed the luxury of breakfast in bed without an extra cost.

On Cruise Community, cruisers have been vocal about their dissatisfaction with these additional charges. One user summed up the sentiment: “The headline price of a cruise has come down… more and more reliance is placed on charging for anything we want.”

Even small amenities haven’t escaped the chopping block. Some cruise lines have removed complimentary toiletries from cabins, while others have cut back on elite benefits without prior notice.

These changes have left many cruisers feeling like they’re being nickel-and-dimed at every turn, diminishing the once-inclusive nature of cruise holidays.

5. No More Little Luxuries

It’s often said that the devil is in the details, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the cruise industry’s recent cutbacks. Many of the small luxuries that once made cruising feel special have disappeared, leaving passengers longing for the good old days.

Gone are the fresh flowers in cabins and main dining rooms, the complimentary cakes with coffee, and the nibbles and canapés in certain bars. On some ships, even practical items like facecloths in cabins are now only available on request.

These changes might seem minor, but collectively they contribute to a significant shift in the cruise experience. As one cruiser on Cruise Community put it: “It has been dumbed down to a point where it is simply a sea-based holiday rather than a special experience.”

The absence of little cards reminding passengers of time changes or the discontinuation of cruise logs at the end of the trip might not break the bank, but they do break with tradition. These small touches once added to the sense of adventure and the unique nature of cruise travel.

Suggested read: 27 Most Thoughtful Little Touches on River Cruise Ships

6. Lacklustre Entertainment

While the main shows and activities on cruise ships remain largely intact, there’s a growing concern about potential future charges for entertainment. Some cruisers worry that shows or lectures, which have always been included in the fare, might soon come with an extra fee.

The traditional cruise atmosphere has also taken a hit. Sailaway parties, once a highlight of embarkation day, have reportedly diminished in scale and excitement on some ships. This has left some passengers feeling that the cruise experience has become more mundane and less celebratory.

On Reddit, one cruiser shared their recent experience: “Completed a 7-day Southern Caribbean cruise from San Juan on the NCL Viva. Felt underwhelmed; lacked the usual ‘magic’ experienced on prior cruises.”

This sentiment is echoed across various cruise forums, with passengers noting a general decline in the overall cruise atmosphere. The reduction in activities, and the perceived lack of effort in creating special moments, have left many wondering if they’re getting less bang for their buck.

7. Diminishing Staff Interactions

Perhaps one of the most significant changes noticed by cruisers is the reduction in personal interactions with staff. This shift is partly due to technology advancements, such as the increased use of tablets for ordering in restaurants and bars. Although these innovations can improve efficiency, they often come at the cost of the warm, personal service that many cruisers value.

On Reddit, one passenger noted that “servers primarily used tablets for service, affecting personal interaction.” This technological barrier, combined with reduced staff numbers and increased workloads, has led to fewer opportunities for meaningful exchanges between passengers and crew.

Kobie Edwards shared on Cruise Passenger: “I know they are busy, but long gone are the days where you had a quick chat in the hallway or a hello in passing.” This loss of personal connection has not only affected passenger satisfaction but also impacted tipping habits. Cruisers feel less inclined to reward service that feels impersonal or rushed.

The reduction in staff-to-passenger ratios has put immense pressure on crew members. Jason McIntosh empathised with a room attendant who was “just trying to hang out for his 15-year service bonus to feed his family.” 

Navigating the New Cruise Reality

It’s clear that the cruise industry is navigating choppy waters. From dining dilemmas to vanishing luxury touches, these changes have significantly impacted the experience that many passengers have come to know and love.

While cruise lines grapple with post-pandemic recovery and economic pressures, some are left wondering if the value proposition of cruising has fundamentally changed. The loss of small luxuries, reduced personal interactions, and the introduction of additional charges have many questioning whether cruise holidays still offer the same magic they once did.

The loyal guests of P&O Cruises have been particularly vocal about the cutbacks made over the past few years, with over 20 things no longer on offer.

However, it’s worth noting that not all experiences are negative. Some passengers continue to find joy in cruising, adapting to the new reality or exploring different cruise lines and destinations to recapture that special feeling. As the industry continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether these cutbacks are temporary measures or a permanent shift. 

One thing is certain: passengers are vocal about their dissatisfaction, and cruise lines would do well to listen. A balance must be found between cost-saving measures and making cruising a unique and cherished holiday experience.

For now, cruisers may need to adjust their expectations and perhaps be more selective in their choices to ensure they get the experience they’re looking for. As one wise cruiser put it, it might be time to “personalise experiences rather than paying for all-inclusive options.”

Despite the challenges, the allure of the open sea and the promise of adventure continue to draw people to cruising. It’s up to both cruise lines and passengers to navigate these changes together, finding new ways to create memorable experiences.

Related Posts:

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

If you’ve ever been on a cruise, you may have heard the captain communicating with the crew using codes, and you might wonder what they mean. 

When I hear a code spoken over the public address system, the first thing I think is, “I wonder what that means?” After all, it must be something set, otherwise, they would just say what the problem is!

In this article, I’ll reveal the meanings of some of the most common secret cruise codes, so you’ll no longer be kept in the dark about what’s going on on board your cruise ship.

But a quick note first – don’t let this article worry you if you’re nervous about cruising! You’ll rarely, if ever, hear these codes and even if you do, the crew will handle things quickly and efficiently.

1. Charlie Alpha

“Charlie” means a security threat, and Alpha” communicates a medical emergency. If you hear both, it’s a security threat caused by a medical emergency.

On the Cruise Critic Community forum, a passenger reported hearing it during an outbreak of meningitis.

2. Charlie Charlie Charlie

The code “Charlie Charlie Charlie” is used when the captain needs to communicate to the crew that there’s a security threat. If you hear it, try to remain calm and await instructions. This particular code is known to be used on Royal Caribbean cruises.

3. Alpha Alpha Alpha

The code “Alpha Alpha Alpha” is used to alert cruise ship crew to an onboard medical emergency. This code is known to be used on Royal Caribbean cruises, but other companies may use a single code Alpha. Either way, the Alpha Alpha Alpha cruise ship code means that somebody is in need of urgent medical attention.

4. Bravo

It might be repeated three times, so you might hear it as “Bravo Bravo Bravo,” but either way, “Bravo” means there’s a fire on board. Be sure to follow all instructions from the crew to ensure your safety – though this applies to all cruise ship codes, really.

5. Delta

Codes aren’t standardised across cruise lines, so the meaning if the code “Delta” depends on who you’re sailing with. It often means damage to the ship, but a former Norwegian Cruise Line employee wrote on the Cruise Critic Message Board that NCL uses the “Delta” cruise code to inform of pollution.

6. Mike

The code “Mike” is used by the cruise line Oceania Cruises to communicate to the crew that there is a medical emergency on board that requires urgent attention. Therefore, the code “Mike” performs a similar function to Alpha, but on Oceania Cruises only.

7. Oscar

The cruise code “Oscar” is one of the most important and urgent there is. It’s used by both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises to alert the crew to a man overboard.

Read more: What happens if someone jumps off a cruise ship?

8. Kilo

The cruise code “Kilo” is used when the captain needs to request that all crew members report to their emergency stations. The code “Kilo” is known to be used on Royal Caribbean ships, and it may be said three times.

9. Papa

The cruise code “Papa” may sound innocuous, and cute even, but don’t be lulled into a false sense of security, it means the ship has encountered an oil spill or some other form of pollution.

10. Victoria

A cruise passenger on the Cruise Critic message boards has reported that the cruise code Victoria is used by Marella for “extreme flooding”. It’s not a code I’ve heard, but if you’re on a Marella cruise and you hear “Victoria,” there’s likely flooding on board.

11. Code 7

“Code 7” likely relates to the seven short blasts and one long blast that signals that all guests and crew must report to their muster stations.

You should be briefed on this during your muster drill as it’s important that you take action. Put on warm clothing, gather any medication you need and head straight to your assigned muster station for further information.

12. Code Red

On a cruise ship, “Code Red” means that an illness has broken out on board. This is often norovirus, which sadly, isn’t exactly uncommon on board cruise ships, as regular cruisers will know.

I have been on a cruise ship during a norovirus outbreak and have heard this code. Unfortunately, my daughter was quarantined to the cabin for 24 hours after becoming sick. The rest of our family managed to avoid it.

Read more: Cruise Ship Norovirus Statistics

13. Code Purple

On a cruise, “Code Purple” is used to signify a bomb threat or some other form of chemical or biological threat. If you hear it, you’ll probably be a bit scared, but try not to panic, the crew will have robust procedures in place to deal with it.

Read more: Do cruise ships have police?

14. Code Black

An announcement of “Code Black” on a cruise can be used to alert the crew to a few possible situations – none of them good. A code black can mean the possibility of a violent confrontation, or the possibility of a suicide threat.

15. Code Gray

Code Gray alerts the crew to the presence of an abusive person or a combative person on board. I’m sure it won’t be you but do remember to be respectful to your crew and fellow cruise travellers at all times.

16. Code Pink

Code Pink is used to alert the crew that an infant under the age of 12 months is suspected (or confirmed) as missing. This is a rarely used code that I hope you’ll never hear on any of your cruises.

17. Code Green

On a cruise, “Code Green” is generally nothing to worry about, and just the captain alerting the crew to a less serious issue on board. Think of it as a kind of “traffic light system, with green for go” meaning things are relatively fine.

18. Code Blue

Some cruise lines use “Code Blue” as an alternative to “Alpha” codes to communicate that there is a medical emergency on board. Alternatively, some cruise lines use “Code Blue” to warn of hull damage. So the meaning of this code really depends on the ship.

19. Code Yellow

Similar to “Code Green”, the ship’s captain might use the cruise code “Code Yellow” to alert the crew to a less serious issue. The traffic light analogy holds up, with yellow (similar to amber) being nothing serious to worry about.

20. Sierra

The secret cruise code “Sierra” is used to communicate that a stretcher is required on board to assist with a medical emergency. Due to this, you might hear the “Sierra” cruise code after you hear one of the “Alpha” cruise codes. 

A code like this is unlikely to be announced to the whole ship. Instead, it will be radioed to the medical centre on board.

21. Echo

If you hear the “Echo” cruise code, this means that the ship has started to drift, but don’t panic! It’s possible that the Captain will get the ship back under control – they’ll certainly have a procedure for correcting the problem.

The bottom line

I hope my article hasn’t made you anxious about your cruise, as that certainly wasn’t my intention. Remember that it’s unlikely that you’ll hear most, if any, of these cruise codes during your cruise, but it’s always worth being in the know about what they mean.

Also, remember that your cruise crew and captain will be highly trained professionals who will be able to deal with any emergency efficiently, so even if you do hear one of these cruise codes, there’s no need to panic!

After reading about secret cruise codes you may be wondering whether your cruise crew will include doctors or police officers, well,  for your peace of mind, I’ve written articles answering these questions.

Related posts:

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

A humorous look at how Royal Caribbean’s colossal cruise ship Icon of the Seas manages to stay afloat!

There are still some great discussions on Twitter/X every once in a while. Some are super-useful and informative, but occasionally there’s a thread that is packed with great and funny replies.

In response to a video about Icon of the Seas, user @edmsillygoose made a request:

A couple of people took the assignment a little too literally:

But there were some fantastic funny replies too, which definitely made the thread worth reading!

Here’s a look at some of the best ‘definitely real’ reasons why Icon of the Seas stays afloat:

1. Thoughts and prayers

‘Thoughts and prayers’ are apparently all that you need to keep a cruise ship floating on the water.

But does everyone onboard need to think about the ship floating, or pray for it to stay up? What happens if someone gets distracted?

Or is it just the thoughts and prayers of the captain? Maybe that’s why they’re paid so well – to always stay focused on using their brains to keep the ship afloat!

2. Iconic legs

Turns out, the real secret behind the ship’s buoyancy is its impressive set of iconic legs. Forget complicated engineering or displacement – the ship just gracefully wades through the ocean on its oversized limbs, like some sort of stylish aquatic flamingo.

It raises the question: do the legs get tired after a long journey? Maybe there’s a secret team of masseuses onboard, dedicated solely to giving the ship’s legs a well-deserved break after hours of elegant striding across the waves.

3. Magic

It’s as simple as that – magic. While the engineers might try to convince you with their fancy jargon and science, we all know it’s really just a sprinkle of pixie dust and a flick of the wand.

No need for hulls, stabilisers, or propellers when you’ve got good old-fashioned sorcery keeping the ship afloat.

4. Floating devices

It’s a well-kept secret that the real buoyancy magic happens at the stern, where dozens of brightly coloured helium balloons keep the ship bobbing along.

It’s so obvious once you think about it. Why else would cruise ships need to stay so far from shore? They can’t risk anyone seeing the balloon setup!

And next time you’re on board, try and sneak a peek over the back. If the wind’s just right, you might catch a glimpse of a rogue balloon trying to float away.

5. Clouds

Clouds aren’t just for dramatic sunsets and holiday snaps – they’re the real reason cruise ships stay afloat. Like a giant waterbed in the sky, the ship just lounges comfortably on a soft, fluffy cloud as it glides across the ocean.

It explains why cruises are so relaxing. The passengers are basically on a floating pillow! The tricky part is making sure the clouds don’t drift away.

That’s why the crew always keeps an eye on the weather forecast – it’s all about cloud management.

6. Neanderthal poetry

In perhaps the most ancient and poetic explanation, our Neanderthal ancestors have cracked the code. With wisdom passed down from the dawn of time, they remind us that it’s all about the big air pockets. Water stays wet, air stays dry, and the boat just… floats.

Simple, right? Who needs modern science when you’ve got the primal power of Neanderthal logic? We can only assume they were also responsible for the earliest cruise designs – probably with fewer decks and a lot more mammoths.

7. Help from another Icon

When you’re the Icon of the Seas, who better to keep you afloat than another icon? That’s right – the ship doesn’t rely on engineering or physics, but on the sheer power of Beyoncé’s presence. Her energy alone is enough to keep the cruise ship gliding smoothly over the waves.

Forget lifeboats! All you need is a playlist of Queen Bey’s greatest hits, and you’ll stay above water indefinitely. Maybe that’s why the ship has such amazing sound systems – they’re secretly part of the flotation plan!

8. I’m not sure this is right…

Buoyancy? Who needs it when the ship is actually airborne? That’s right – Icon of the Seas isn’t floating on the water at all, it’s just hovering slightly above the surface, like a giant luxurious hovercraft.

The smooth ride? That’s because you’re technically flying the whole time. So next time someone asks how a cruise ship stays afloat, you can confidently tell them it doesn’t. It’s secretly just levitating in style.

9. The animal kingdom pulls its weight

Why rely on man-made propulsion when nature’s finest are happy to help? Beneath the waves, a dedicated team of dolphins is hard at work, pushing the ship along with graceful flips and synchronised swimming.

They don’t just make for great photo ops – they’re the true power behind the ship’s movement! So the next time you spot dolphins frolicking near the bow, just know they’re not playing. They’re clocking in for another shift keeping the Icon of the Seas afloat and moving.

10. Crouching giant

Forget engines and displacement – the real reason the ship floats is thanks to a helpful giant, wading through the ocean like it’s a paddling pool.

With the ship perched delicately on his head, he carefully strolls along the seabed, making sure to keep everything balanced. You can only hope he doesn’t sneeze!

Maybe he’s on the cruise payroll, or maybe he’s just a friendly sea giant who enjoys the steady pace of ocean travel.

Either way, it explains why the ship never seems to struggle, since it’s just along for a ride on a giant’s shoulders.

11. Mythical creatures

That’s right, hundreds of mermaids working tirelessly beneath the surface, holding up the ship like a mythical support crew. They don’t just save sailors from storms – they’ve upgraded to luxury cruise ships now.

Their siren songs might explain why everyone’s so relaxed on board. While passengers sip cocktails and sunbathe, a hidden mermaid workforce is keeping everything in balance. I wonder if they’re included in the daily gratuities you’ve got to pay.

12. Human-generated propulsion

Well, I know that some people do worry about the emissions of a cruise ship…

The next time you’re enjoying the smooth ride on the Icon of the Seas, just remember that somewhere below deck, there’s a hidden team of passengers contributing their share to keep the ship gliding effortlessly over the waves.

13. That’s why you always find them onboard…

The true secret to keeping the ship afloat lies in a vast, hidden army of rubber ducks!

They’re discreetly tucked away under the deck, or all around the ship, creating a buoyant force that ensures the ship stays high and dry. Who knew those little quacking companions were actually the unsung heroes of marine engineering?

Next time you spot a rubber ducky hidden on a ship, remember: it’s not just a toy. It’s a key component in the high-tech floating system of the Icon of the Seas.

14. Ah, the Finns made it so

When in doubt, trust the Finns! Apparently, the real magic behind the Icon of the Seas is that it’s Finnish-made, and the key to its buoyancy lies in the simple command: “Float.”

In true Finnish fashion, they’ve infused the ship with a special blend of craftsmanship and polite, no-nonsense efficiency. It’s a bit like asking a well-trained husky to pull you along – you just tell it what you need, and it delivers.

15. Of course, it’s so simple…

It turns out the secret to floating is as straightforward as it gets: just make the ship’s bottom really big, and voilà, it goes ‘floaty float’. Who knew?

Science is the answer, and you don’t need to understand it to believe. Just say “Science!” and you have solved the problem!

Final word

There you have it – lots of reasons why a cruise ship as big as Icon of the Seas can stay afloat. Don’t trust anyone who tells you it’s displacement. It’s clearly a combination of magic, mermaids, rubber ducks and some human-powered emissions.

Feel free to add your own suggestions too!

Or if you’re interested in the actual answer, I spoke to my friend John who is a cruise ship pilot and he explained everything here: How Cruise Ships Float And Not Tip Over.

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In cruise ship cabins that sleep more than two people, the third and fourth beds may be sofa beds or Pullman beds. But what is a Pullman bed, exactly?

What Is an Upper Pullman on a Cruise Ship?

An upper Pullman bed is a top bunk bed that pulls down from the ceiling or comes out of the wall of a cruise ship cabin. Pullman beds are most often used for children but may also be used by adults, provided that they meet the weight requirements.

Pullman beds take their name from inventor George M Pullman who designed the concept for the sleeper cars of trains in the late 1850s. Pullman beds are also known as ‘upper beds’, ‘bunk beds’ or ‘pull down beds’.

Cruise ship cabins can have either one or two Pullman beds. Underneath the Pullman bed may be a single bed, a double or queen-sized bed or the floor.

A Pullman mattress for cruiseship staterooms won’t be super thick but it’ll be comfortable enough.

What Does a Pullman Bed Look Like?

When they are not in use, Pullman beds may be folded up against the wall or hidden away in the ceiling so that they are barely visible at all.

The photo below shows Pullman beds folded up against the wall…

The photo below shows one Pullman bed which has been lowered and one which remains hidden in the ceiling…

I made a video of our cabin on Britannia, which shows the Pullman bed upright and lowered along with footage of the ladder and the extra railing to prevent young kids from falling out of bed. See it here: P&O Britannia Inside Cabin Review

Can Adults Use Pullman Beds?

Adults are allowed to use the Pullman beds on cruise ships. This means that it’s possible for up to four adults to share a cabin. If your child is too young to use the top bunk, you can put them in the bottom bed and take the top bunk yourself.

What Is the Weight Limit on a Pullman Bed?

As upper Pullman beds are attached to the wall or ceiling, there are limits to the weight that they can hold safely. Pullman beds are suitable for most adults but are not recommended for particularly heavy people. The table below shows the maximum Pullman bed weight limit for each cruise line.

*On P&O Cruises and Cunard, the restriction of 130 kg applies to the bunk ladder. There is no restriction on the bed itself, and it has been ‘shock tested’ to 300 kg.

Is There a Height Limit for a Pullman Bed?

On Royal Caribbean cruises, the maximum height to use an upper Pullman bed is 6 feet 6 inches. The other cruise lines don’t specify a maximum height. Pullman beds are usually the same length as a standard single bed.

What Age Can Children Use Pullman Beds?

Most cruise lines do not have any age limits on who can use a Pullman bed on a ship. However, on Royal Caribbean cruises and Celebrity Cruises, children must be at least six years old to use a Pullman bed. This is not monitored, however. I let my five-year-old sleep in a Pullman bed with no issues.

When deciding who should sleep in the Pullman bed – you or your child – it’s important to think about the sleeping habits of your own child and the bed they sleep in at home. If your older child or teenager is prone to sleepwalking, then a Pullman bed probably isn’t the best option. It really depends on the child.

I allowed my daughter to use the top Pullman bed on MSC Preziosa when she was two years old. The bed was positioned over a double bed so if she were to jump out, the fall would only be a couple of feet onto the bed below, rather than further on to the hard floor.

If you would prefer your child not to use a Pullman bed, there are some beds available for third and fourth passengers in a cabin that are at floor level. These include sofa beds (where a sofa converts into a bed) or pull-out beds (also known as trundle beds, where a bed rolls out from under another.)

Usually, when there is a sofa bed, it’s a single sofa bed for the third passenger. If you have four people in your room, the fourth may have a Pullman bed above the sofa.

You’ll need to make sure that you’re happy with the bed type when you book your cruise, as you won’t be able to change it once you’re on-board.

Read more: How To Upgrade Your Cruise Cabin After Purchase

Do Pullman Beds Have Guard Rails?

Pullman beds have guard rails to prevent people from falling out. However, the size of the guard rail can vary considerably depending on the ship.

The photo below shows the Pullman bed on Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas with a very small rail. I asked the cabin attendant if there was any option to have a larger rail but he said no.

The photo below shows the guard rail on Allure of the Seas which is a little larger.

The photo below shows an ocean view cabin on Liberty of the Seas which has large guard rails and a double bed beneath.

The photo below shows the standard guard rail on P&O Cruises Britannia (the silver one) with the additional guard rail which was provided on request by our stateroom attendant.

If your Pullman bed has no guard rail at all, lift up the mattress and you’ll likely find it under there. If you’re in any way concerned, just call your cabin attendant and they’ll be happy to help in any way they can.

How To Stop Your Child From Falling Out of Bed on a Cruise

If you’re at all worried that your child may fall out of bed on your cruise, there are some things you can do to prevent this. These are:

1. Ask for an extra guard rail. This is available on some ships but not others.
2. Bring your own guard rail. Inflatable guard rails are available to buy from Amazon.
3. Ask for an extra blanket. You can roll this up to create extra padding between your child and the edge of the bed.
4. Put your child in the lower bed. This may mean that an adult has to sleep in the upper Pullman bed.
5. Place the mattress on the floor. Some cabins have enough space to do this, but not all do.
6. Allow your child to sleep on the sofa. Some cabins have a small sofa which can be turned around so that kids can’t fall off it.
7. Bring your own inflatable bed. Ready beds are available to buy on Amazon.

Whilst a Pullman bed might look like a safe place for a child to sleep, it’s important to pay attention to the weather. If the ship passed through a storm in the night, this could increase the chance of your child being rocked out of bed.

It’s also important to think about what they would fall onto if they did fall out. Would it be onto a double bed below, or onto the floor?

Can You Put the Pullman Beds Up and Down?

On a cruise, your cabin steward will raise the Pullman beds during the day and lower them again while you’re out for the evening. It’s usually not possible to do this yourself.

How Big Is a Pullman Bed?

Pullman beds vary in size but are generally the size of a single bed or slightly narrower. Space above the bed is limited so an adult may not be able to fully sit up in bed.

Pullman beds are generally best suited to children and smaller adults. If you have three of four adults in your cabin, it would probably make sense for the smaller adults who are most capable of climbing a ladder to use the top bunk.

What Is a Convertible Bed?

A convertible bed on a cruise ship is two single beds that can be joined together to create a queen size bed. An extra thin mattress is placed on top so that you don’t feel the join in the middle. Convertible beds enable cruise ship cabins to be used by people who prefer double or twin beds.

A lower convertible bed usually means a sofa that converts into a bed. These are suitable for children or adults.

Disney cruise ships don’t have convertible beds, they are always Queen beds. However, there is a sofa that converts into an extra single bed for friends who don’t wish to share a bed.

Related Posts:

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me