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Ocean-going cruise ships have medical staff on board, available 24/7 for emergencies. Most ships have a doctor and at least a couple of nurses as part of their medical team. 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.
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The Baby That Was Born on a Cruise Ship
The baby will automatically take on the citizenship of the parents. For example, they can give you fluids for dehydration or diagnose a miscarriage. These are not medical issues you want to experience in the middle of the ocean, away from land-based hospitals with dedicated prenatal specialists. Cruise lines recognize it's not in the best interest of the mother to be far from care at this time.
Why can't you go on a cruise after 24 weeks pregnant?
That being said, it’s always safer to talk to your doctor before traveling, especially if you’ve had any issues with your pregnancy in the past. Schedule massage treatments at the spa, unwind by the pool, and enjoy the never-ending food and non-alcoholic drinks on board that will leave you feeling completely relaxed and pampered by the end of your vacation. I have been cruising since 2004 and have sailed on dozens of cruises all over the world. As the creator of this website, I want to help families plan fun cruises free of stress and filled with adventure! 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.
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Don't expect to sneak in that bucket list trip to Alaska in your third trimester or schedule yourself for a foot massage in the onboard spa just weeks before your due date. Other smart tips are to stay well hydrated; be sure to bring a reusable water bottle to refill for shore excursions, especially in warmer climates. And don't be shy to ask for virgin frothy drinks (a pina colada is almost as good without the rum!), which can be fun and refreshing. On the bright side, cruise lines are famous for catering to whimsical palates and will do their best to satiate any sudden cravings pregnant guests may have, with various food venues and room service on hand. 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.
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Here’s what you need to know about cruising while pregnant, including why cruise lines have rules about pregnancy. 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. If you are past 24 weeks in your pregnancy, you will not be allowed to board the ship. Keep in mind that while there is a doctor onboard, there is not an obstetrician/gynecologist specializing in women’s health onboard the ship and if trouble strikes, you could be out at sea with no help readily available.
Should I go on a cruise while pregnant?
You may be wondering how would cruise lines know how many weeks pregnant you are? Well, cruise lines require a letter from your doctor before boarding. If you are before 24 weeks, cruise liners require letters stating that you are not at risk for pregnancy complications and that you and your baby are healthy and fit to travel. Additionally, the physical exertion involved in embarking and disembarking the ship and participating in shore excursions may also be challenging for some expectant mothers. 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.
What Is The Best Itinerary For A Pregnant Woman?
Unwind on the heated tile loungers and take in gorgeous views of the ocean in the spa’s relaxation room. Royal Caribbean International cannot accept guests who will be more than 23 weeks pregnant at any time during the cruise or CruiseTour. However, it is best to outline what pregnant women should avoid rather than what they can eat. If the baby was born while the ship was more than three nautical miles off of the coast (international waters), you might be able to apply for the country where the ship is registered. If your ship is docked in a foreign country during delivery, you may apply for citizenship for your baby there.
Stage of Pregnancy:
If you're expecting (or expecting to be soon), here's what you need to know — and what to expect — about cruising while pregnant. Don’t just buy your life jacket online; you will want to be able to try it on to ensure that it is a good fit for your changing body. You are aiming for a life jacket that does not compress your growing bump — which can be dangerous — but that fits well around your shoulders. Some life jackets have straps between the legs, and this can prevent a life jacket that is slightly too large from malfunctioning, should you need it.
Choose a three-day cruise to the Bahamas, where you’ll visit the port of Nassau and its pristine white beaches. Head to family-friendly Aruba and spend your days swimming in its calm, transparent water. Our Caribbean cruises also visit ports in St. Lucia, the Virgin Islands, Bonaire, Curacao, Puerto Rico, and more. 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. Do not book the excursion if it says it’s not recommended for pregnant women. Even so, it is recommended to check with your physician what excursions are safe for you as they would know your pregnancy condition best.
Before booking a cruise, it’s important to discuss your plans with your healthcare provider. They will be able to assess your specific situation and provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you to travel. As expectant parents, you may have planned a special vacation before your little one arrives, and a cruise might be on top of your list. However, before booking your tickets, you may have concerns about whether it is safe to go on a 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. It’s common to book a cruise many months (or even years) in advance.
If malaria is contracted, pregnant women may experience pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, premature birth, and stillbirth. For those thinking a vaccine will put you in the all-clear, this is not always the case. Of course, this is dependent on many factors, such as the type of vaccine. A cruise can be an incredible babymoon for you and your partner and even a future older sibling. Consult your doctor and evaluate the pros and cons before setting sail.
If you are experiencing pregnancy complications, your doctor may advise against going on a cruise. 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.
