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Larger cruise ships do have basic medical facilities, but they don’t have hospitals on board equipped for labor and delivery, or to care for a newborn. So, if someone goes into labor on a cruise ship, the ship needs to either head to the nearest port to access a hospital, or find a way to get you there (at your own expense). Shore excursions are a fantastic and easy way to explore each of your cruise’s port destinations. In all of our ports of call, you’ll find all kinds of shore excursions in activity levels ranging from mild to strenuous.
Choose Your Destination Carefully
You’ll need to let your insurer know that you’re pregnant, and ensure that you have adequate cover to cruise while pregnant. It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to get a full refund for your cruise, but you may be able to claim on your travel insurance, as long as you were not aware of the pregnancy when you booked the cruise. You will be denied boarding – in early 2024, a woman was banned from the ship due to the Carnival cruise pregnancy policy and refused a refund. 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).
Are There any Destinations you Should Avoid While Cruising Pregnant?
In general, you'll want to pay heed to the demands of your body and the fact that you might tire easily. Don't resist the appeal of a lazy day on the beach or of lounging poolside if that feels right. Do keep the potential for fatigue in mind when choosing any lengthy excursion, or one that requires a lot of walking and activity. Consider, too, that your pregnancy might make you hyper-sensitive to sun and heat, so limit exposure to sunlight (pack those wide-brimmed hats!) and avoid dehydration by drinking lots of water.
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For pregnant women, shore excursions that do not require athleticism or strain the body are generally safe. So consider booking a sight-seeing bus tour, visiting the local museum or attractions, spending a day at the beach, or a local cuisine cooking class. If you are experiencing pregnancy complications, your doctor may advise against going on a cruise.
What If I Get Sick or Have Complications During My Cruise? Is There Medical Care Onboard?
If this is the case, going on a cruise against your doctor’s recommendation can be potentially dangerous for you and your baby. When thinking about safety, it is also essential to consider the destination. Cruise lines do have good reasons for disallowing people who are relatively far along in their pregnancy. When you think about it, going on a cruise is a really different type of trip than, say, flying. If something were to happen while you were in the air, you wouldn't be far from either your destination or, if necessary, an emergency landing. If a pregnancy complication were to arise, or if you went into labor prematurely, they would not be equipped to handle it, as explained by Cruise Critic.
What Should I do if I feel Nauseous Onboard?
If you purchased travel insurance, you could see if your policy would cover this situation. Given that final payment is typically 90 days (roughly 13 weeks) prior to sailing, you shouldn't have a problem if you discover that you're pregnant before you're 10 weeks along and cancel immediately. "If you're going to choose a trimester, [the second trimester] is probably the lowest of the risks because that's not fetal development anymore," said Yu.
Coast Guard medevacs pregnant woman aboard Disney cruise - NewsNation Now
Coast Guard medevacs pregnant woman aboard Disney cruise.
Posted: Wed, 17 Apr 2024 23:28:37 GMT [source]
For dedicated cruisers doubling as moms-to-be, what better way to celebrate your growing family than by taking a relaxing and fun-filled trip out to sea? Happily, cruising in the midst of a normal, healthy pregnancy is not only entirely possible but is generally altogether recommendable, with just a little extra planning to ensure a fun, safe and healthy sailing. 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. "...any pregnant woman who tries to board the vessel, who has or will enter her 24th week of estimated fetal gestational age at any time during the cruise, risks denial of boarding and/or disembarkation without compensation or refund." "All pregnant women are required to produce a physician's letter stating that mother and baby are in good health, fit to travel and the pregnancy is not high risk," states Princess Cruises' FAQ section on pregnancy. "The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery (EDD) calculated from both Last Menstrual Period (LMP) and ultrasound (if performed). Please ensure you have your doctor's letter with you when you embark."
Are There Any Destinations I Should Avoid While Cruising?
What is covered while pregnant varies by provider, so review the terms and conditions carefully and ask a question if unclear. As of July 2022, the CDC's COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships is no longer in effect. If you have any concerns, weigh them with your primary care physician prior to booking. 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. If you have any concerns about taking certain medications while pregnant, we suggest consulting your primary care physician. Ultimately, if you want your child to have an additional passport, giving birth prematurely on a cruise is not the best way to go about that.
Have Fun. Be Safe
The right travel insurance policy covers your investment in your entire vacation, from the cruise fare to your airline tickets to any pre-booked shore excursions. It should also include medical evacuation coverage in case you need to be airlifted or need a medically-equipped flight. Obtaining travel insurance with a medical coverage component is always a smart idea when setting out on a cruise vacation, but especially so when you're pregnant. With the potential for exorbitant expenses like ship evacuations, the cost of insurance is a small price to pay to help ensure financial peace of mind.
I’m Bobby Pham, but you can call me “Bobby on Cruise.” I’ve been cruising the high seas and exploring the world for years, and I’m thrilled to share my passion and expertise with you. So, let’s set sail together as we explore the important aspects and guidelines for soon-to-be mothers. 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. A combination of heat and over-indulgence can lead to your clothes and shoes becoming tight fairly quickly on a cruise. Pack elasticated trousers and floaty dresses to ensure that you’re comfortable.
However, cruise lines take extensive measures to ensure the health and safety of their passengers, including rigorous sanitation protocols and mandatory health screenings before boarding. As long as you practice good hygiene and follow the cruise line’s recommended precautions, the risk of contracting an illness should be low. It is also in your best interest to check with your doctor before booking a cruise. If there are any complications or concerns with your pregnancy (early labor, high blood pressure, pregnant with multiples, etc.), your doctor can advise you as to whether staying ashore or proceeding with your sailing is recommended.
Planning a cruise while pregnant, though, calls for thoughtful consideration due to specific industry restrictions and advisories. Now that you know everything you need to about cruising while pregnant, it’s time to book your next vacation. Browse through the itineraries on our website and pick the perfect cruise to celebrate your bundle of joy. Think about keeping some snacks in the room for those late-night cravings (many modern cruise ships even have mini-fridges featured right in the staterooms).
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