Table Of Content
Additionally, shouldbecruising.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes receive a commission from purchases made through our links. So, let’s set sail together as we explore the important aspects and guidelines for soon-to-be mothers. You can “do it yourself” via what you order off the menu to get what you want, but don’t hesitate to ask the waitstaff if there are other options if needed. The good news is that cruises are good at offering a lot of variety and also meeting just about any diet.
Should I go on a cruise while pregnant?
The baby spent the next four months in the hospital before being allowed home. If you’re in any doubt about whether cruising during pregnancy is safe, you should contact your doctor for advice. You'll probably want to avoid sailings that are heavy on formal nights, which might be demanding of formalwear (meaning a new dress to buy that you'll likely only wear once). Don't forget to invest in a maternity swimsuit, however, if your plans involve lounging by the pool or beach, and your regular two-piece no longer fits.
Eight Things That Will Surprise First Time Cruisers
You can easily buy policies that include medical coverage from most cruise lines or directly from the insurance companies themselves. As each cruise line has different activities and entertainment facilities, it is challenging to determine the best itinerary for pregnant women. A general guideline is to choose an itinerary that has activities that are safe and friendly for pregnant women.
Tips for Cruising During Pregnancy
You can go on a cruise provided that you are well enough to travel and have not entered the third trimester of your pregnancy (24 weeks). To be allowed to travel, you must be less than 24 weeks pregnant on the last day of your cruise. Finally, don't rely on the ship's pharmacy or gift shop to have your medications in stock (and if they do, note they're likely to be priced at a premium). Instead, make sure you have an ample supply of any pregnancy-approved prescription and nonprescription medications that you'll need with you (like prenatal vitamins, Tums, acetaminophen, etc.) to cover the duration of your trip. Also carry copies of prescriptions, as well as the emergency contact number for your doctor. And, as always, be sure to keep them in your carry-on during the course of your travels, in case you get separated from your checked bags.
What activities can you partake if you are cruising while pregnant?
Remember, you are on a ship in the middle of the ocean and sailing to ports that are often less developed than what you are used to seeing back home. If there are any complications that come up, it could be a major issue. There are medical facilities on the ship, but they just aren’t equipped to handle these types of issues. Each cruise line will have their own cut-offs, but most only allow you to sail if you are not entering the 24th week of pregnancy before or while on the cruise ship. If you are going to be at this point in your pregnancy any time during the trip, then you won’t be allowed to board.
Read Next: Park & Cruise Hotels for Every Port in America
It’s important to consider issues like your due date, prenatal care access, Zika risks, and ship amenities. This article clearly details what expectant mothers need to know about taking a cruise while pregnant. If you have any pregnancy complications, existing medical conditions, a history of previous premature births, or are expecting multiples, it’s a different scenario. In these cases, your doctor might advise against cruising as a precaution. The risk of complications, especially when far from specialized medical care, is a concern that can’t be overlooked.
Why Cruising While Pregnant Differs From Other Pregnancy Travel
If you’re planning an upcoming babymoon or want to find out more about cruising while pregnant, here is a detailed guide on everything you need to know. During your pregnancy, you should avoid visiting any countries where there is a risk of zika virus, malaria or any developing countries where the food or water may not be safe. The rules for pregnant cruise travelers measure in weeks, not in months, and draw the line at 24 weeks. You will need to provide documentation from a physician that states the progress of your pregnancy in gestational weeks. If you’re planning to travel on one of the popular major cruise lines, the cut-off point is 24 weeks. Please advise us at time of booking or as soon as you are aware that you are expecting a baby.
Before You Board
Check out Romper's new video series, Bearing The Motherload, where disagreeing parents from different sides of an issue sit down with a mediator and talk about how to support (and not judge) each other’s parenting perspectives. Climbing an ancient Mayan temple in the mid-day Mexican heat may be too much, while a long catamaran sail or a ferry ride may be problematic to those who are motion-sensitive. During rough seas, balance can take more focus than usual, and you’ll certainly want to avoid taking a tumble whilst tottering in stilettos. Although you may still fit in normal clothes during the first trimester, after a week of indulgence in the buffet, that can quickly change and you may be more comfortable in elasticated trousers! Comfortable shoes are also a must, as heat can cause your feet to swell and walking puts pressure on your joints. We advise investing in some supportive trainers or sandals to wear during excursions and your feet will thank you.
You might need to call the cruise line, rather than buying it online. But, I’ve done my research since then, so read on for everything you need to know about cruising while pregnant. I took a Caribbean cruise when I was 12 weeks pregnant and I’m sad to admit that I made a couple of mistakes because I wasn’t aware of all the rules and recommendations. So I wrote this guide to help others who might fall into the same trap.
Also, be aware of other viruses that spread via mosquitoes such as dengue and malaria. Currently, the CDC has listed an advisory for Jamaica as it relates to dengue. Bug repellent, long sleeves, and pants can be effective in preventing bites or guests may decide to stay onboard and enjoy the quiet of the ship. It is helpful to review ship activities and shore excursions to determine what is suitable. Rock climbing, ATV adventures, waterslides, and bumper cars may not be appropriate, even at the early stages of pregnancy.
Pregnant woman says Carnival denied her boarding and refused a refund - Business Insider
Pregnant woman says Carnival denied her boarding and refused a refund.
Posted: Sun, 18 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
In the event that you have any medical complications during your cruise, your regular health insurance likely won’t cover any care you receive on board the ship or in foreign ports. With the health and safety of parents and newborns in mind, cruise lines have implemented strict policies to avoid risking both patients’ lives in case of a premature delivery. That’s why it’s important that as soon as you know you won’t meet the cruise line’s requirement to sail that you go through the steps to cancel. Cruise lines have cancellation policies that escalate — meaning that the closer you are to the sail date, the less money you’ll receive as a refund if you cancel. A Guest may be at sea for several days without any immediate hospital and/or specialist back up, and that since the proposed itinerary is not within the U.S., and the availability of specialized shore side facilities can be problematic.
Soon-to-be moms can usually fly later into pregnancy than cruise ships allow. Each cruise line has its own policies regarding pregnant passengers. Some may have restrictions on how far along you can be in your pregnancy, while others may require a medical certificate stating that you are fit to travel. Be sure to check the cruise line’s website or contact their customer service to understand their specific requirements. On many cruise ships, smoking is permitted in the casino and there is sometimes quite a smoky atmosphere.
She funds her four-year (and counting!) cruise adventure using points and miles. Sophia’s travel expertise comes from her time as a reporter for The Points Guy, featured in Forbes, Business Insider, and The Balance. When not traveling, she enjoys relaxing in Priority Pass lounges with tea and battling slow Wi-Fi.
Indeed, a little R&R-themed, stress-free "babymoon" of lounging poolside, racking up naps, getting pampered at the spa and eating 'round the clock can be a pregnant woman's dream. Pregnant travelers can generally travel safely with appropriate preparation, and this includes cruise travel. Experts advise avoiding destinations where viruses such as malaria are more frequent. You should confirm that a doctor or nurse will be on the ship, and that you visit ports with modern medical facilities in case medical attention is needed. Women who have reached or exceeded their 24th week of pregnancy, at any time during the cruise, will not be allowed to board or sail with the ship due to limitations of medical care. I love sharing my best cruise tips with you, along with reviews of cruise destinations, shore excursions, cruise ships and cruise lines.
Since many people plan their cruise vacations well in advance, it's entirely possible that an unexpected pregnancy might end up overlapping with your planned sailing dates. If you don't wish to sail while pregnant and have not yet paid your final payment, it's generally easy to cancel your sailing and get a refund of your deposit. As an added safeguard, purchasing travel insurance is highly recommended to protect your vacation investment. Depending on the coverage you choose, you should be able to cancel or reschedule your sailing if you find out that you're pregnant after booking (see more travel insurance advice below). Cruises can be safe for pregnant women, but it’s essential to get clearance from your doctor prior to embarking on the cruise. Your doctor’s assessment ensures that your pregnancy condition aligns with the safety requirements of cruising.
Some cruise lines do have non-smoking areas of the casino though, and Princess Cruises has dedicated non-smoking nights, beginning at 6pm on certain sailings. Most cruise lines allow women on-board until their 24th week of pregnancy. This means that you must be less than 24 weeks pregnant at the end of the cruise. Most cruise lines won’t deny you boarding unless you’ll be at 24 weeks into your pregnancy (or beyond) by the end of the cruise.
No comments:
Post a Comment