5 Worst Things That Could Happen on a Cruise! Watch Out!

Have you ever wondered what could be the worst things to happen on a cruise?

Cruises offer the promise of unforgettable sunsets, endless buffets, and a relaxing escape from everyday stress – sounds like a dream, right? However, what happens when your dream vacation takes a turn for the worse?

While most cruises go smoothly, there are a few unexpected surprises that could quickly dampen your spirits. From missed ports and medical emergencies to seasickness and sunburns, the open sea can be as unpredictable as it is beautiful.

But don’t panic just yet—being aware of potential issues is the first step toward avoiding them! This list of the worst things that could happen on a cruise isn’t meant to scare you; it’s designed to prepare you. By knowing what to expect, what to avoid, and how to handle situations like a pro, you can make sure your cruise is filled with the loveliest experience ever.

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, these tips can help you navigate potential trouble spots. Let’s dive into what you should steer clear of!

…The next thing might make you feel a little itchy!

1. Getting bedbugs

Nothing makes a cruise more terrible than realizing you have bedbugs! These tiny and annoying hitchhikers can lurk in upholstery, mattresses, and even luggage. Protect yourself by inspecting the headboard, mattress seams, and bedding before you settle into your cabin. Look for small brown spots or bugs, and let the staff know immediately if you find anything suspicious.

Since there are thousands of people on a cruise ship at once, prevention is better than treatment. Keep your suitcase off the bed and store it on a hard surface—if your room has a luggage rack, use it!

To stay extra cautious, wash and dry your clothes on high heat as soon as you return home, even the clean ones. This simple step can help you eliminate any potential bugs before they become a bigger problem!

2. Too much seasickness

Would you expect smooth sailing? Not always. A rough sea can give you a hard time even if you’re a seasoned sailor. If you’re prone to motion sickness, you’d better book a midship cabin on a lower deck where motion will be less intense.

And don’t forget to pack your medicine, because you or someone else might need it. Doctors say that ginger chews, wristbands, and medicine like meclizine and Dramamine are great. Seasickness is, without a doubt, one of the worst things that can happen on a cruise, so don’t sit silently, waiting for it to pass. Check in with the staff and visit the ship’s medical center, because many of them offer seasickness shots.

3. Missing the ship after a port stop

You’re enjoying a delicious meal in port, sipping from a tasty coffee, or walking through a stunning local market, and before you know it… the ship’s no longer there. Missing embarkation is one of the most terrible cruise fails, and before you ask, yes, it happens more often than you think.

Unfortunately, ships don’t wait for someone, and if you’re not back on time, you’ll be stranded. Always double-check the departure time, avoid last-minute excursions that cut it close, and keep your watch set to ship time (not local time) to avoid being left out.

Other than that, book your excursions through the cruise line, because that ensures the ship won’t leave without you. Set a phone alarm, head back, and have fun!

4. Booking the wrong cabin

If you think all cabins are created equal, let me tell you it’s not like that. From noisy engine rooms to sleepless nights under the pool deck, your cabin location can make or break your experience.

If you’re not a party animal, for instance, you might not be comfortable staying in a room directly above or below high-traffic areas, such as theaters, dining rooms, or clubs. Other than that, balcony cabins might be worth the extra cost if you book a longer cruise because the views are amazing.

…Want to book a cabin above the club? Get ready for the party to follow you all night long!

5. Catching a terrible norovirus

Did you know that cruise ships are an excellent spot for germs, and norovirus spreads like wildfire in cramped quarters? This can cause you diarrhea, vomiting, and an overall bad vacation.

Make sure you respect all hygiene measures, avoid public buffet utensils if possible, and always tell the medical team you don’t feel well.

…What are your thoughts on these worst things that could happen on a cruise? Have you ever been on a sailing adventure? Let us know in the comments below! Until next time, here’s another post from Devastating Disasters you won’t want to miss: Hidden US Facts From 14 States