Cruise line advertisements promise the ultimate vacation, carefree, relaxing, and full of adventure. But as many travellers discover, what’s shown in the glossy brochures doesn’t always match the reality on board. In fact, there are several key things that cruise lines are reluctant to disclose, which could significantly impact your experience as a passenger.
Cruise Gary Bembridge took to his YouTube channel Tips for Travellers to share five things passengers should know before embarking on a cruise.
Most passengers assume that cruise lines operate every aspect of the ship, but in reality, much of the experience is outsourced to third-party companies.
From medical services to spas, shops, and art auctions, third-party contractors handle many onboard activities. For example, while major cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean run their own medical centres, others, such as Viking and Virgin Voyages, rely on companies like Vikand and Marine Medical Solutions.
“If something goes wrong, the cruise line won’t take responsibility,” warned Bembridge. Similarly, spas and retail shops are typically operated by outside companies like OneSpaWorld and Starboard Cruise Services, leading to constant sales pitches as staff earn commissions.
Another truth many don’t realise is how closely they're being watched. “CCTV cameras are everywhere, and facial recognition tech tracks you across the ship,” Bembridge explained.
Beyond surveillance cameras in public areas, cruise lines use facial recognition to identify passengers for everything from photos to tracking movements on board.
On some lines, like Princess Cruises, passengers wear devices that track their location, allowing crew members to greet them by name. While this enhances service, it also raises privacy concerns, especially as some ships have cameras positioned to capture activities on private balconies.
Many cruise ships lack automatic Man Overboard Detection Systems, which cost around $200,000 per ship. These systems use thermal cameras and radar to detect if someone falls overboard, yet only 30 ships have them.
“Without these systems, a man overboard situation may not be noticed until someone raises the alarm,” Bembridge noted.
Cruise policies also vary greatly depending on where passengers live. For example, US travellers booking a Cunard suite may receive a drinks package, while UK residents do not.
“There are different terms for people from different countries, which can make a big difference in pricing,” Bembridge warned.
Lastly, cruise contracts contain terms that most passengers don’t read. These include the right for cruise lines to search your baggage, confine you to your cabin, or change itineraries without compensation.
Bembridge warned: “You’re also agreeing to be filmed and have those images used in marketing without any compensation to you.”
Understanding these hidden truths will help travellers navigate their cruise experience with more realistic expectations. As Bembridge puts it, "It’s always best to know what’s under the surface before setting sail."
