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Watch: cruise ship stuck in massive swell with thousands of passengers on board.

Cruise ship off Queensland stuck in massive swell

About 2000 people are stuck aboard a cruise ship off Queensland being rocked by massive swell.

A passenger ’s seasickness-inducing footage supplied to 7NEWS, seen in the video above , shows the ship being rocked and water from its pool spouting skyward from the resulting momentum.

The ship is the Coral Princess, which made headlines last week after recording more than 120 cases of COVID-19 when it docked in Sydney.

It has been circling off the Sunshine Coast, unable to dock at the Port of Brisbane due to wild weather impacting Australia’s east coast .

It is approximately 40km off the coast amid swell up to 6.5m.

“The Port of Brisbane is closed with the suspension of pilotage operations due to adverse weather conditions associated with the east coast low off Queensland,” Princess Cruises said in a statement.

“The arrival in Brisbane of Coral Princess, which was scheduled to return today (Friday) after a seven-night cruise to Queensland ports, Airlie Beach, Cairns and Port Douglas, will be delayed 24 hours to tomorrow.

“However, confirmation of arrival details depends on the resumption of piloting services and the reopening of the port as conditions improve.

“Guests currently on board and those who were due to embark today for the next cruise are being updated regarding the ship’s late arrival and being assisted as fully as possible.”

A number of other large ships are also off the coast and unable to dock, but the Coral Princess is the only passenger ship.

“They’ve all been instructed just to float or drift, but the Coral Princess because it has passengers on board is unable to do that,” Caloundra Coast Guard Commander Roger Pearce told the ABC.

“So it’s just motoring, in circles at a very low speed, so it keeps moving.”

It has not been confirmed when the ship may be able to dock.

A marine wind warning has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology for much of the Queensland coast.

There is a storm form wind warning for the Fraser and Capricornia coasts, with gale warnings for Hervey Bay, the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay and Gold Coast.

Those warnings are expected to remain in place on Saturday.

There are also heavy surf warnings impacting the coastal areas of Gold Coast, Coolangatta, Maroochydore, Noosa Heads, Caloundra, Rainbow Beach, K’gari (Fraser Island), Moreton Island, North Stradbroke Island and Bribie Island.

“A developing east coast low off the south coast of Queensland is interacting with a ridge to the south to produce gusty winds and large waves along the southern coastline,” the bureau said.

“The low will begin to move away to the east on Saturday.”

Huge Sting Ray lands in family boat.

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88-foot Converted Tug Swell

Swell is a beautiful, classic, converted tugboat. She accommodates up to 12 guests in 6 private cabins, all with full en-suite heads (bathrooms with showers), and a crew of 5.

Ship Layout

Technical Specifications

• Private cabins: 6
• Private ensuites: All cabins
• Max guests: 12 
• Salon and lounge areas: 3 plus wheelhouse
• Shore boats: 2 Polaris rigid hull inflatable boats
• Length over all: 88 feet
• Beam: 22 feet
• Propulsion: Diesel engine
• Watermaker: 3600 gallons per day
• Cruising speed: 7 to 10 knots
• Registration: Canada
• Year built: 1912 (rebuilds 1950s, 1980s, a $3.5 million refit in 2004)
• Where built: Vancouver, B.C., Canada
• Style of ship: Tugboat

Interior and Accommodations

An elegant expedition ship.

The gorgeous Swell is spacious with amenities offered by no other ship on the coast in her class.

Her $4 million in refits transformed her from a powerhouse working tugboat to a comfortable passenger vessel.

The renovations kept the warm character of her classic wooden construction, and each cabin is panelled with natural wood.

It’s also set up as the dining lounge for meals. Snacks, tea, coffee and juice are served on the buffet bar.

The chefs pride themselves on the variety and beauty of their meals. They can accommodate most dietary needs with advance notice.

Aft Deck Lounge, Main Deck

Aft Deck Lounge, Upper Deck

Largest cabins

Outside door, opening portholes.

Large private, 3-piece ensuite head.

Natural light.

Small boat queen sized bed, which is half-way between a double and a queen (75.5” x 57”).

Walls on three sides of bed.

Storage in tall, slim cupboard, various drawers, one shelf and small entry shelf.

120 sq. ft.

Douglas Fir

Large, 3-piece private ensuite head.

Small boat queen sized bed, which is half-way between a double and a queen (75.5” x 57”). Walls on two sides of bed.

Storage in tall, slim cupboard, various drawers, shelves.

Mid-size cabins

Outside door, opening porthole.

Private ensuite head, separate washbasin area.

Upper and lower singles (see below).

Storage in three small cupboards, two large drawers below lower bunk and two shelves and a desk.

Sitka Spruce

Natural light, skylight.

Angled boat double beds (approx 79” x 52”, narrower at feet). These are comfortable beds for two people used to sleeping together and don’t mind their feet near each other. Not for people who wish to sleep well separated from their partner. Luxurious for a single paying a single supplement.

Storage in three small drawers, two cubbyholes under bed, and three shelves, plus cupboard in head.

Western Hemlock

Smallest cabin

Two up and down small, extra-long single beds (79.5” x 30”).

Storage in tall cupboard with shelves, small under-sink cupboard, under bed.

Shore Boats, Kayaks, and Other Equipment

We tow two Polaris rigid-hull, inflatable boats — very reliable and sturdy shore boats. These zodiac-style boats give you ample space and great access to enjoy an explore along shorelines, up rivers, at wildlife colonies, and onto beaches. 

While at anchor, enjoy one of our four single kayaks. Our Delta 10s are sleek, 10-foot single kayaks made from thermoform plastic. They are light and agile. With a clear window in the floor of them, you can even paddle near shore and see through your kayak to the ocean critters below!

Aboard Swell we have fishing rods and lures ready for jigging for licensed anglers. Obtain your sports fishing licence online and take a turn at jigging for halibut or lingcod. Our chefs are delighted to cook your catch and serve it to you at dinner. 

Our zodiacs are stocked with mini-aquariums and other tools for (safely) examining intertidal life. The ship also has many guidebooks for the local flora and fauna and visual aids for understanding big picture concepts or phenomena. The ship also has a hydrophone for listening to whales. This underwater microphone plays the sounds of the sea over the deck, including the clicks and calls of whales.

What Else You Need to Know About Travelling Aboard

Authentic tugboat.

The Swell is an authentic, coastal tugboat. She’s the real deal. Her small size and ruggedness, combined with our special access permits and incredibly knowledgeable and well-connected crew, give you an unparalleled experience.

Human Scale

You have access to sites, phenomena and people you cannot get on larger ships, which are often banned from the special areas we take you. What’s more, you have access to this in a very personalized, human-scale manner. You are not a sheep to be herded around — you are our special guest. Plus, you have a full ship for just you and a few other guests.

Quiet and/or Social Time

With a small number of thoughtful guests, you can choose to have your own quiet time or engage with your fellow guests and your expert guides.

Being Clear About Your Needs for Cabin Size

The cabins are beautifully and lovingly decorated, but they are not hotel rooms . They are authentic, small boat cabins. This means the beds are non-standard sizes (described above) but are very comfortable. There are door sills to step over to enter each cabin. This does mean that you need to step aboard without thinking of cabins as hotel rooms, but rather as cozy cabins on a real heritage ship.

Cabins on the Swell are between 57 square feet and 120 square feet. However, you also will be on deck, on shore, in the salon, or in the wheelhouse for much of the day — spaces that are also uncrowded, elegant and welcoming.

Soft Adventure Travel

This is a trip with a sense of adventure. We take you to spectacular and interesting places that are still intact naturally and culturally. This means that typical North American urban amenities like internet connectivity, roads and pavement, and massive transportation systems generally do not exist. We are experts at planning and operating wonderful trips. The logistical complexity behind a trip is incredible, but we hope you never notice it due to everything running smoothly.

It does mean that we may change the plans for a day because an interesting opportunity for you arose, or wildlife appeared, or we decided to take you to a different area one day because the weather made that the better option. There are new discoveries to be made on every trip – a new individual whale we haven’t encountered before, a new species never seen before, a new cove never explored before, an amazing new person encountered.

The discoveries keep the trip exciting for everyone and are inspirational moments along the general plan of the trip we are unfolding for you. If you are used to trips where every minute is scheduled weeks in advance, this may seem at first an unusual way to travel. We ask that you trust that your expert crew and guides know exactly where to take you and use their knowledge and experience to choose the right moment for every highlight that is planned for the trip. If you have any questions about this, please feel free to contact us.

Physical Eligibility

You need to be able to step over a six-inch (upper deck) to one-foot high (main deck) door sill to enter and exit your cabin.

You need to be able to step into a zodiac (with assistance) from the ship, and up from the floor of the zodiac back onto the ship.

Ashore, you need to be able to get out of a zodiac on a beach with no docks. This involves sitting on the side of the pontoon, swinging your legs over the side, and standing up, with someone lending you a hand.

Ashore, you need to be able to walk along uneven shoreline.

There is a regular staircase from the main deck (where the salon and zodiac loading is, as well as two of the cabins) and the upper deck (where the wheelhouse and upper deck cabins are).

History of the Tugboat Swell

The Swell is one of British Columbia’s most historic ships. Her classic tugboat frame has pulled the materials that created some of BC’s major ports, and has been featured in a national television drama.

1912: The Swell is Born

1912 to 1954: Coal-Fired Steam Tug of the Coast

1954 to 2004: Diesel Tug, TV Star and Changing Times

Swell in Powell River (1980)

2004 to present: Swell Is Reborn As a Passenger Vessel

In 2004, the Swell underwent a $3.5 million refit. The refit was lovingly done by her then-owner Big Time Sport Fishing, and the coastal tradespeople and shipwrights who worked on her. The shipwrights, Spiller Boats, are also coincidentally the shipwrights who do work for our other ship the SV Maple Leaf. In 2014-5, Maple Leaf Adventures augmented that refit with a small refit to make her a greener, more energy efficient ship, as well as to improve the interior space design, alter some cabins, and give her decor an update. Her maiden voyage as a boutique expedition ship was April 16-20, 2015 in the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve / Salish Sea area of southern BC. The voyage began with a blessing ceremony in which three honourary godmothers (Penelakut elder Florence James, conservationist Vicky Husband, and shareholder and teacher Diane Hackett) blessed the ship, and Maple Leaf Adventures president Kevin Smith, under the direction of elder Florence James, struck the ship four times with a cedar bough and then Capt. Alex Ruur fastened it to the ship’s bow. This cedar bough continues to travel with her until it falls off. As of June 18 in Haida Gwaii, the bough was still attached. With our thanks to the following people for information, stories or photographs of Swell’s history: Bob Spearing, Rick Senkler, the Maritime Museum of BC, Michael Kaehn, Josephine Bohemier, William Allan, Greg Evans.

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The Dangers Of West Coast Swells

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Average swell heights on the West Coast are significantly higher than on the East Coast, Gulf Coast, or in the Great Lakes, and can be deadly.

Coast Guard Station Golden lifeboat crews conduct surf training near Ocean Beach, California. The large swells they encounter there ensure the crews are prepared to respond to any maritime emergency during rough weather conditions. (Photo: U.S. Coast Guard/PO3 Loumania Stewart)

The 6-foot comber slammed against the port bow, knocking my 34-foot trimaran sideways until it fetched up on the anchor chain with a jerk that nearly took me off my feet. A scant quarter mile behind me, enormous waves crashed against the rocks of Pebble Beach at the head of Stillwater Cove on California's northern Sonoma coast, shooting spray 40 feet into the air. I needed to leave — now — while I still could.

But I was alone, and there was no way to manually crank up the 200 feet of chain that held the boat against the assault of the relentlessly growing waves. With no other choice, I released the windlass clutch. The remaining chain roared out until it fetched up against the rope tail that secured the bitter end. I tied an orange fender to the chain, then watched the incoming wave train, waiting for what I hoped would be the right moment. I saw my chance and touched my knife to the bar-taut line. It exploded in two, and I raced back to the helm.

Slamming the throttle lever all the way forward and pointing the bow toward the next comber, I prayed the prop wouldn't foul on one of the thick patches of kelp around me, nearly invisible in the foam and spray. Time slowed to a crawl. The growl of the breakers became strangely muffled. Hanging on, I held my breath as the bow rose skyward and the steering wheel rotated down into my gut.

This was the critical moment. If I made it over the top and down the backside of this wave, I'd be out of the trap. If the boat broached or the prop fouled, I'd toss out the anchor I'd laid out on deck and pray it held. If not, I'd be hurled sideways into the maelstrom and the rocks behind me. Neither the boat nor I would survive the pounding. I'd anchored in the cove to escape swells coming out of the north. But as seas grew, it became apparent that the swells were wrapping around the south-pointing breakwater and entering what I'd thought initially would have a been a safe anchorage.

So where do you find safety in circumstances like these? It may seem counter-intuitive, but in the absence of strong winds, shelter from large swells lies in deeper water or offshore. Once I extricated the boat from the dangerous breaking waves in the shallow cove, I simply reanchored in 60 feet of water, ironically, in a more exposed part of Carmel Bay. There was little wind, so the openness of the anchorage wasn't important. What was important was that the depth was nearly three times the height of the swell. I'd already prepared the rode and anchor, so all I had to do was drop it over the side when I got to a safe place.

Here's why waves on the Pacific Coast are much larger than those on the Atlantic Coast of the United States.

At least I got one thing right. Thirty minutes after I almost lost my boat — or worse — I was riding gently up and down with the big swells rolling into the bay — safely anchored less than a half-mile from the scene of my recent narrow escape. In the three days I had to wait for conditions to allow me to return to recover my abandoned anchoring gear, I had plenty of time to contemplate the lessons learned from this terrifying experience.

Comparison Of Significant Wave Heights* On East And West Coasts

Lessons learned.

If the weather turns nasty, a shallow cove can be the worst place to be. Not only will the waves break first in the shallow water near shore, but you have almost no margin of safety if your anchor drags or you need to make a quick exit like I did. Now, unless I'm absolutely sure the weather will remain settled, I drop the hook in the deepest water that is still sheltered from the prevailing wind and waves.

I also underestimated the ability of big swells to wrap around land. I knew that waves refract, or bend, around islands and points of land, but never thought that even large swells could do a 180-degree turn. I learned that when swells are large enough, the effect is almost tidal, and shallow water is hazardous regardless of the relative direction of the offshore swell.

Finally, I should have seen the error in my choice of anchorage sooner and left before it became a life-and-death situation. Much like deciding when to reef, the time to leave a potentially dangerous anchorage is the first time you think about it. Period.

I did have the sense to monitor the weather daily and seek shelter based on NOAA warnings. I picked the wrong spot. With adequate spare anchors and rode onboard, I wasn't reluctant to abandon a set of gear in order to make a quick exit. Equally important, because I'd rigged a length of rope to the bitter end of the anchor chain, I could cut it free in an instant. Before doing so, I'd readied my second anchor that I knew would set quickly even if it encountered some kelp. With the rode carefully flaked on deck so that it would pay out with no chance of fouling, all I'd need to do in case of emergency would be to toss the anchor over the bow.

I had enough line, so I could safely reanchor in deep water. In fact, I needed more than 300 feet to achieve 5-to-1 scope in an average of 60 feet of water. Finally, when things calmed down, I was able to recover my costly anchoring gear because I'd attached a large round, orange fender to the end of the chain before cutting it loose.

A few days later, I celebrated my narrow escape with a steak dinner at one of Santa Cruz's finest oceanfront eateries. Savoring a glass of fine California cabernet while surveying the damage to the harbor through the window, I realized just how lucky I was that my lesson hadn't cost me much more.

Critical Takeaways

• Very large swells will refract around points of land, changing speed, wavelength, and direction. Anchoring in water depths two-and-a half to three times the combined swell and wave height (and carrying enough rode to do so) is good insurance in case swell finds its way around a corner to you. Call the local harbormaster, if there is one, and ask where you'll be safest given the forecast.
• Wind generates waves, but waves often outlive the wind that spawned them to become swells. Of the biggest wave sites in the world, California boasts the majority, with Hawaii a close second.
• To get a feel for the difference in swell between the West and East coasts, check NOAA's National Data Buoy Center . Click on one buoy on each coast and read the significant wave height (the average of the top one-third of all waves over the interval). For instance, we averaged all the significant wave heights taken at one-hour intervals for one year from Station 41623 off Mendocino, California, and Station 44009 off Cape May, New Jersey. Waves average 3.7 feet off Cape May, less than half the 8.4-foot average off Mendocino. The table above summarizes data farther offshore, from Buoy 46006 located 600 nautical miles southwest of Portland, Oregon, and Buoy 44004 located 150 nautical miles east of Cape Hatteras, off North Carolina. Combined wind and swell is never less than 3 feet off the West Coast and exceeds 12 feet almost a quarter of the time.
• While a large swell rarely causes more than discomfort (and involuntary feeding of the fish) in deep water, in shallow water it can produce dangerous breaking waves capable of capsizing even relatively big boats. So, when navigating in a swell, do not enter water shallower than two-and-a-half to three times the total swell height. (The easiest way to determine wave height is to consult the closest measuring buoy using NOAA's National Data Buoy Center and also available as an app.)
• U.S. Sailing investigated the loss of the Sidney 38 Low Speed Chase and the death of five of her crew in the 2012 Farallones Race , and found that the vessel crossed a 28-foot shoal with a forecast for swell of 12 to 15 feet and wind waves of 3 to 7 feet. In that depth, this combined sea and swell could produce a breaking wave capable of capsizing a 38-foot boat several times an hour. Be prudent and steer wide.
• When choosing an anchorage to weather extreme swells (in excess of 20 feet), look for protection from the swell direction and avoid anchoring in shallow water.

— The Editors

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Swell Cruise Ship, Alaska

• from ₽ 84,053 / day

• Converted tugboat with classic charm
• Wood-paneled salon and charming lounges
• Get up close to incredible wildlife

Look no further than the Swell yacht for a fantastic small-ship adventure cruise in Alaska. She is a classic converted tugboat accommodating up to 12 guests in 6 private en-suite cabins. A $4-million refit means she offers amenities found on no other ship in her class in the region. The spacious wood-paneled salon offers a charming place to relax, read a book or play a quiet game. During meal-times, the salon is set up as a dining room so guests can enjoy the delicious onboard cuisine, snacks, and drinks available. There are two Aft Deck lounges: one on the main deck, an enclosed space perfect for enjoying the stunning surrounding views. The upper deck aft lounge has comfortable sofas and a semi-covered hot tub.

Itineraries aboard the tugboat Swell explore the best of Alaska's Inside Passage. Cruise through Fredrick Sound, Endicott Arm, Tracy Arm, and Baranoff Island on a 9, 10, or 11-day cruise to get up close to incredible wildlife. Brown bears, humpback whales, sea otters, icebergs, glaciers, and historic towns are all on the agenda creating a small-ship Alaskan cruise to remember.

Book online today for an adventure of a lifetime aboard the tugboat Swell.

Choose your departure date adventure cruise | no scuba diving

Included: VAT, Fuel Surcharge, National Park Fees, Port Fees, Visas and Fees, Alcoholic Beverages, Drinking Water, Soft drinks, Tea & Coffee, Wine with Dinner, Beach BBQ, Full-Board Meal Plan (All meals), Snacks, Kayaks, Land Excursions, Naturalist Guide, Cabin Towels, Complimentary Toiletries, Deck Towels.

Required Extras: Environment Tax (200 CAD per trip).

Optional Extras: Gratuities.

Book now, pay later: You can easily place your booking online. We will then hold the spaces for you and you can confirm with a payment later.

* Extra fees are shown per person.

Pay by bank transfer or online with Best Price Guaranteed

Boat features

• Daily housekeeping
• Indoor Saloon
• Warm Water Showers
• En-Suite bathrooms
• Non-Smoking Rooms
• Seaview Cabins
• Kayaks On-Board
• Dedicated Local & International Crew
• Nearly 1:1 Crew-to-Guest Ratio
• Naturalist Guide
• Observation Deck
• Available for Charter
• Jacuzzi / Hot Tub

Food & Drinks

• Western Food
• Vegetarian Options
• Snacks All Day
• Free Wine w/Dinner
• Vegan Options
• Fine Wines Selection
• Free Soft Drinks
• Set Menu Dinner
• Fine Cuisine

If you have any specific dietary requirements whilst on-board your cruise, you can add this to your special requests on step 2 of the booking form. We advise limiting these requests to religious beliefs or food allergies.

Languages Spoken

The crew speaks English.

Drawings & Vessel Layouts

Accommodation.

Cat 3: Cedar

Cat 3: Douglas Fir

Cat 2: Arbutus

Cat 2: Sitka Spruce

Cat 2: Western Hemlock

Cat 1: Red Alder

Boat specifications.

• Year built 1912
• Year renovated 2004
• Length 88 ft
• Deck area 2 covered
• Beam 20.6 ft
• Top speed 9 knots
• Cruising speed 8 knots
• Max guests 12
• Number of cabins 6
• Number of bathrooms 6
• Freshwater maker yes

Boat Navigation and Safety

• Depth Sounder
• Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
• E.P.I.R.B. Distress System
• Emergency Rafts
• Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
• First Aid Kits
• Satellite & mobile phones
• Bilge pump alarm
• Search light
• Crew trained in first aid
• Emergency flares

We’re here to help, 24/7.

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• 1 double bed
• 120 sq. ft.
• Aircon with control
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• Max 2 guests

Largest cabin. Outside door, opening portholes with large private, 3-piece ensuite head, natural light. Small boat queen-sized bed, which is half-way between a double and a queen (75.5” x 57”). Walls on three sides of bed. Storage in a tall, slim cupboard, various drawers, one shelf, and small entry shelf.

Largest cabins. Outside door, opening portholes with Large, 3-piece private ensuite head, natural light. Small boat queen-sized bed, which is half-way between a double and a queen (75.5” x 57”). Walls on two sides of bed. Storage in tall, slim cupboard, various drawers, shelves.

• 2 single beds (twin)

Outside door, opening porthole with private ensuite head, separate washbasin area, natural light. Upper and lower singles. Storage in three small cupboards, two large drawers below lower bunk and two shelves and a desk.

Outside door, opening porthole with large, 3-piece private ensuite head. natural light, skylight. Angled boat double beds (approx 79” x 52”, narrower at feet). Comfortable beds for two people used to sleeping together and don’t mind their feet near each other. Not for people who wish to sleep well separated from their partner. Luxurious for a single paying a single supplement. Storage in three small drawers, two cubbyholes under the bed, and three shelves, plus cupboard in the head.

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Outside door, opening porthole with large, 3-piece private ensuite head, natural light, skylight. Angled boat double beds (approx 79” x 52”, narrower at feet). Comfortable beds for two people used to sleeping together and don’t mind their feet near each other. Not for people who wish to sleep well separated from their partner. Luxurious for a single paying a single supplement. Storage in three small drawers, two cubbyholes under the bed, and three shelves, plus cupboard in the head.

Outside door, opening portholes with private ensuite head, separate washbasin area, natural light, skylight. Two up and down small, extra-long single beds (79.5” x 30”). Storage in tall cupboard with shelves, small under-sink cupboard, under bed.

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How to Prevent Swollen Legs and Ankles on a Cruise

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Have you ever gone on a cruise and found that after a couple of days your legs and ankles became swollen? Many cruisers say that they’ve suffered on occasion with swollen calves and puffy ankles, even if they’re relatively fit and healthy.

However, there are ways to prevent fluid retention when cruising, and reduce the uncomfortable symptoms of swollen legs, ankles and feet.

In this post, I’ll share some effective tips and remedies to help manage and prevent fluid retention when cruising, as well as answer some frequently asked questions about leg swelling on cruise ships.

Please note, this post is not intended to replace medical advice and it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor if you have concerns.

Many of these awesome cruise tips , come from real cruisers who have shared their experiences. As well, as someone who has dealt with swollen calves and ankles while cruising, I share some things that have helped me to manage this well.

Why Do Legs Get Swollen on a Cruise?

There are different theories as to why some people experience swelling in legs and ankles while cruising. 

The most common and plausible answer is salt in the cruise food and drinks. When at home, most of us don’t eat restaurant meals daily, which tend to have more salt then our own home cooking. As well, we tend to eat in larger quantities on a cruise, and drink more cocktails and alcoholic beverages. These foods and drinks that are high in sodium, likely lead to excess water retention in our legs. 

There are many other theories floating around (pun intended), including that the sea air and even the ship’s salt water contribute to this problem. All the theories are inconclusive, and cruise ships desalinate their drinking water, so this is unlikely to be a major contributor. 

How to Stop Feet and Ankles from Swelling on a Cruise

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Here are 15 helpful tips and remedies to prevent and relieve swollen legs, ankles and feet while on a cruise ship. These are all real cruise travel tips that have been effective for cruisers who’ve experienced puffy and swollen legs while cruising in the past.

Avoid salty foods

This is easier said than done, however, cruise lines are very accommodating and will prepare foods that are low in sodium if needed. Ask your travel agent to note this on your booking, and speak with the maitre’D once on the cruise ship. You may have lower sodium and “healthier” options on the main dining room menus as well.

Look for the “hidden” salt in foods that isn’t obvious. Avoid olives, bacon and even soups and sauces, that may have high sodium content.

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Lemon water

It’s a good idea to drink a lot of water on a cruise. However, even better, is to drink lemon water. Lemon water is said to be a natural diuretic, reducing fluid retention. Simply add a slice into your glass or even your water bottle.

Bringing a refillable water bottle is a good way to make sure you drink water often.

I love these refillable water bottles with encouraging messages and reminders to drink more water.

Recommended: Leakproof “Motivational” water bottles (see over 7000 awesome Amazon reviews)

Drink bottled water

Some cruisers report that avoiding drinking the tap water on cruise ships, and instead opting for bottled water has been helpful. 

Ask for parsley

Parsley is a traditional remedy for water retention. Many cruise passengers say that eating a bit of parsley has been helpful in managing leg swelling while cruising. Ask your waiter if you can have some extra parsley with your meal each night.

Drink mint tea

Several herbal teas have been touted as helping to reduce fluid retention, including dandelion and parsley teas. However, many cruisers say that mint and peppermint teas have been helpful in so many ways when cruising. From managing bloat and swelling, to easing a queasy “seasick’ stomach , if you’re a tea drinker, give this a try.

Reduce your alcohol consumption

I drink much more on a week long cruise than I do at home, and I suspect some of the sugary cocktails and other alcoholic drinks contribute to my legs and ankles swelling.

Try and be conscious of how much you’re drinking, especially if you’ve got a  cruise line beverage package . 

Compression stockings

Compression stockings reduce swelling in the legs, as well as discomfort. While you may not want to wear compression socks during the day, especially on a Caribbean cruise , it can be a good idea to wear them in the evening under pants, or even to sleep.

Wearing compression stockings can be really helpful when flying as well. If your legs tend to swell on flights and on cruises, it’s really worth trying.

Go to the sauna

A sauna or steam room can help to reduce water retention. However do make sure to increase your water intake to prevent dehydration.

Keeping active can help reduce weight gain on a cruise, as well as fluid retention build up in the legs . This doesn’t mean that you need must go to the gym or do fitness classes. Even getting up and walking around the promenade deck, taking the stairs or even dancing are great ways to move more and keep fit on a cruise.

Elevate your feet at night

This handy tip is one I’ve heard from other cruisers. When going to bed, place a couple of pillows under your feet to elevate them while you sleep. While you may still experience some swelling the next day, it will start the morning off well and reduce the discomfort you may feel.

Massage with aloe

Doing a self massage of your lower legs, feet and ankles will help with circulation and reduce swelling. However, some great tips come from cruisers! Some cruisers report that massaging with aloe vera is the secret!

See your doctor

Some cruisers report seeing their physician and being prescribed medication, such as Laxis, to reduce excessive fluid retention. If this is serious problem for you, make sure to consult with your doctor.

Leg exercise /Yoga pose

On our last cruise, I met some new friends who would lay on deck chairs with their legs up, and their heads down or flat. After seeing them do this for a couple of days, they told me about how this stopped their legs and ankles from swelling. She was a yoga teacher.

Because I suffered from this moderately on cruises, I tried it. I held my legs up against the back of the lounge chair or against the wall my cabin, while my back was on the bed for several minutes at a time. I did this every day in the morning when I woke up, mid-morning, afternoon and before bed.

Not only did my legs rarely swell up, but when I felt my legs or ankles starting to get puffy, this exercise reduced the swelling fast.

Bring an extra pair of comfortable shoes

This may go against some cruise packing advice which suggests bringing only 3 pairs of shoes, with 1 pair of dress shoes for the evenings. In my experience, if you’re concerned about having swollen ankles and feet, you should bring at least one other pair of alternative, comfortable shoes on a cruise .

I like to have a pair of open back, wedge shoes that can still be worn with dresses or pants. These provide a lift for my heal and support my arch, reducing the pressure on my feet and ankles. As well, if my feet are a bit swollen, the open back of the shoe is comfortable.

Eat watermelon and cucumber

Fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, cucumber, celery and asparagus are said to contain chemicals that work as natural diuretics. Fruits and vegetables are plentiful and readily available on a cruise, and a great way to keep healthy when cruising as well .

Planning a Cruise? Read these posts next:

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How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise: 10 Effective Remedies

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

23 Essential Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On Bag

What To Wear on a Cruise Vacation (when dress codes are changing)

Final thoughts: How to Prevent Swollen Legs and Ankles on a Cruise

Getting swollen feet and ankles while on a cruise is not uncommon. Whether it’s the excess salt in our diets when cruising or the sea air or water, fluid retention can happen. Many of the natural remedies mentioned in this post will work best in combination. For example, drinking more fluids and avoiding excess salt in foods, plus elevating your legs at night, will yield better results.

Have you dealt with swollen legs on a cruise before? If so, how did you manage it and what products or tips were helpful? Please share in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

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Thanks so much for the info on dealing with swollen ankles!

So glad this was helpful! Somehow this happens sometimes 🙂

I’m afraid none of these have worked. My legs were so tight and painful that I went to see the ship’s doctor as I thought that I had a DVT! I might visit my GP before my next cruise.

I’m sorry to hear Tricia. It’s a good idea as you said to consult your GP and discuss the problem.

These are great suggestions! As a nurse I love the natural remedies! The medication that you referenced is named “Lasix” not Laxis and it’s a commonly prescribed diuretic but it comes with side effects of depleting potassium and other electrolytes from your blood, so eating healthy foods and drinks that replace these electrolytes will help replenish those. We LOVE cruising and this may help many people to prevent that annoying ankle swelling! Safe travels & God bless! Love, Nautical Nurse Nancy

Thanks Nancy for your comments! I’ll make that adjustment. Btw, I love your videos 🙂

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• Royal Caribbean International

3-5ft swells: Will we feel it?

By ShipsInBergen , March 20, 2009 in Royal Caribbean International

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ShipsInBergen

We are sailing on Brilliance and the forecast is for 3-5ft swells. I think this is around beaufort 4.

I know these are pretty mild conditions, but I was wondering if they are enough to cause the ship to noticably pitch/roll, the water in the pools to slosh, etc?

I get travel sick and wonder how prepared I need to be for any motion?

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I've only experienced waves of that size on a small yacht so I'm not really sure. I'd say since you are prone to sea sickness, be very prepared! It's hard to get "un" seasick so I'd rather be ready for it.

you won't notice......we had 12-20 foot swells on Explorer in Feb..THOSE you would feel....A LOT....and you'd probably be a lovely shade of green......:eek:

3-5 foot is very calm, I wouldn't worry about it. I was on the Explorer in between two hurricanes with 25 foot swells and the ship handled it beautifully.

I was on the constiliation last mo. to the panama can. We had 5 to 8 ft swells no movement at all. We did have 15 to 18 one day that you noticed but not enough to take a pill . CARL

Nope you won't if you're having fun. Shouldn't be a problem. Those are mild. Now on Splendour in 20' swells, the whole ship was leaving deposits. We never get sick (so far) but Todd had to lead me down our hallway with my fingers pinching my nose on that trip:eek: Get the patch of bonine, I've heard it works great if you do get higher waves.

The waves have to get to double digits to notice it much on a cruise ship and be 20 feet or more to really be a significant factor.

Rancher Dave

Well in my experience I will take 25' rolling seas in the Atlantic over 15-20' choppy seas in the Gulf of Mexico. The confused seas that come about in the GOM really can make it uncomfortable. Head into the rolling seas, well you get used to it quickly and just walk and stop as needed to get where you are going without too much difficulty. The stairs in those kids of seas are probably the most dangerous place to walk though, if you don't get the hang of the swell pattern.

Of course wind on the ship side can be worse than waves in terms of making the ship roll side to side. Ideally you are head into the wind or it is directly astern blowing the ship along. When its on the side directly, the ship acts like a Giant sail and will roll just from the strong winds, where wave action is of less consequences.

Go forth and enjoy your cruise!!!

Arizona Laura

We had 5' on the Mariner and nothing noticed. It was such a smooth cruise I said prayers of thanks for that.

The first night on the Carnival Victory out of Miami I was rolling back and forth in bed but could tolerate fine. DH never moved. That was the most movement I have ever felt.

I do dread the day I run into more active swells. I was getting a little seasick with Rancher Dave's last paragraph. I know the more I cruise the chance increases of big swells but I just will have to deal with it and be prepared.

It seems that coming out of Ft. Lauderdale, headed for the Bahamas.....we have experienced more rolling.....sometimes very gently, and sometimes where we have had bed stand drawers opening and closing.......and flower vases falling off of vanities and tables.

However.........that is not the norm. If I have learned anything....if you have a loved one give you flowers.......take a face cloth......wet it, and put it between the vase and the table............I don't care how rough (within reason)...........the vase will never move.

After 74 cruises........I would think that my DW would be pretty immune to seasickness............but alas......it's just who she is......and she still needs patches or bonine.

On most cruise ships..........5 to 9 foot swells mean nothing........might as well be sailing on smooth waters.

On 10 to 15 foot swells.......a bit of movement will be felt........very good sleeping for me...........almost like rocking in the cradle!

15 to 25 foot swells...........you will feel a bit of movement.......and for those that are prone to seasickness.........good time to get bonine or the patch.

25 to 35 foot swells.............some of us are really enjoying the ride, but baggies will be found on the railings in the passageway.

We were caught in the end of a typhoon in the sea of Japan on a cruise in 2001..........and those were the worst seas that I have encountered.

I'm sure that some have seen worse. On that day.......everything on the ship was closed. All of the glasses from every bar were shattered.

This happened on an NCL ship............and we all come out unscathed.

What I have learned from that experience is that todays cruise ships are built to withstand heavy force winds and waves........and although you may feel that you are being tossed about........the ship is safe!

And, in closing......we were in the harbor of the island of Bora Bora.....on the old R-4, having dinner with a delightful couple. I noticed that their daughter........on her first cruise......was wearing a patch behind her ear.

On inquiry..........she told me that the rocking of the ship had made her seasick........and hence the patch. Folks............there was no movement in those glassy waters.........but we all have our tolerance levels.:)

I experienced my first cruise the first week of March on the Voyager of the Seas. Almost every day was 4 to 6 foot waves according to the ship status channel on the tv in the cabin. I'm going to disagree with every other poster and say that you can definitely tell the ship is rocking. It's not bad, mind you, but it's noticeable. My DW is susceptible to motion sickness so we planned ahead and got her the patch prescription. Neither of us had any problems with it. It was actually kinda fun to me to feel the ship rocking. However, it took me 3 days to get my land legs back (also a first). That was a strange experience.

boz68...........first....let me welcome you to Cruise Critic!

Second...........I know exactly how you felt........especially on your first cruise ...........getting your land legs back.

As we started to cruise more.....and on longer cruises......even after our 10th cruise............I had a problem for up to 3 days after getting off of a ship......to feel that I was no longer rocking! It's a very unreal feeling.......and many of us have had the same experience.

I want to thank you for sharing..........and let you know that you are not alone...........by a long shot!!

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The best new cruises in the world: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: every spring when we pull together the Hot List, our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of travelling the globe – to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage – it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali . We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that makes a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From around £574 per person for a seven-night sailing. Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara, Emerald Cruises

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August , the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles . Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia, has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From around £3,112. David Dickstein

Explora I, Explora Journeys

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where ageing meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs – such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic – curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From around £564 per person per night. Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with a capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map – forgetting your sunscreen , for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the speciality seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crewmembers dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From around £1,818 . Charlie Hobbs

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli , CN Traveller

MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the Italian cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details – this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevvy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. Itineraries from around £420. Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Cruise Line

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima. There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over-the-top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From around £791. Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista, Oceania Cruises

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilisers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience – Vista’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley , and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year, Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year, it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul , Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025. From around £2,182. Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse. Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs – and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveller. From around £6,025. Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit, Seabourn Cruise Line

Pursuit is a small, “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear – or damp Arctic expedition gear – in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From around £8,729. Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek islands , and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travellers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving speciality pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jewelled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From around £3798. Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova, Silversea Cruises

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool , the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate – as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture and place before even disembarking. From around £2465. Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton, Viking River Cruises

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio – designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration – just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt ’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travellers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real-time to shepherding travellers through modern night markets with endless fervour. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen – and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travellers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton, and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until that is, your next Aton sailing). From around £4849. Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady, Virgin Voyages

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai . Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship – 20-plus to be exact – and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From around £1616 . Rachel Dube

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass. Back in your cosy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant – think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favourite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From around £1495. Celeste Moure

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I sailed on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas. These were my 8 favorite amenities on the world's largest cruise ship.

Posted: April 20, 2024 | Last updated: April 23, 2024

• Royal Caribbean invited me to spend three complimentary nights on its new Icon of the Seas  in January.
• My eight favorite amenities included the waterpark and jazz bar.
• I've yet to see most of the amenities on my list on other cruise ships.

There's a reason Royal Caribbean's new mega-cruise ship is only operating seven-night sailings .

The 1,196-foot-long, 20-deck Icon of the Seas is packed with bars, restaurants, and things to do. Any shorter of an itinerary, and you might not have time to experience all it has to offer.

If you're a frequent cruiser — especially with Royal Caribbean — amenities like the mini-golf course and water playground may not seem exciting.

But of all the activities the new world's largest cruise ship has to offer, my eight favorites are, for the most part, ones I've yet to see on another vessel.

Take a look at what made the cut.

1. The six-slide waterpark

It wouldn't be a roundup of Icon of the Seas' best amenities without a mention of its waterpark.

Plenty of family-friendly cruise ships have waterslides, but few have six — or even one that requires a multi-person raft.

However, if you don't like the feeling of your stomach dropping, I'd advise skipping the 46-foot-tall drop slide.

2. The adult-only suspended infinity pool

The 7,600-guest Icon of the Seas has seven pools and nine hot tubs. As a kid-fearing adult, I loved the grown-ups-only suspended infinity pool.

I spent my time there perched at one of its in-water loungers, contently splashing my legs around the water, wondering if I actually hated cruises.

While I would've preferred a quieter atmosphere (the DJ did not, in fact, play smooth jazz), the pool's views, day beds, and lack of screaming children were hard to beat.

3. The Crown’s Edge thrill 'ride'

There's no need to grab coffee before harnessing up for the part-zipling, part-agility Crown's Edge course. You'll be jolted awake when the floor drops from beneath your feet, leaving you dangling 154 feet above the ocean before the zipline kicks in.

Unfortunately, it comes with two costs: $49 and a spike of anxiety.

4. The 'Wizard of Oz' and 'Aqua Action!' shows

If you hate cruise shows, Icon of the Seas could make you change your mind.

The ship's riff on Broadway-approved "Wizard of Oz" — 16-piece live orchestra and flying bed included — delighted me, a hater of most musicals.

For something less traditional, the semi-circle AquaDome theater hosts a compelling multi-disciplinary swim, dive, and aerial show reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil.

It's the first show-at-sea I've seen with a waterfall and nine-foot-tall robotic arms, and so far, it's one of my favorites.

5. The live jazz bar

Ya like jazz? So do I.

Icon of the Seas has plenty of live music venues — including rowdy karaoke and dueling pianos bars, if that counts. But if you're a jazz fan or looking for a peaceful nightcap, none of these options will top the live music at Lou's Jazz 'n Blues.

6. The customizable Mediterranean-style wrap at the five-stall food hall

The mega-ship's food hall wasn't nearly as diverse or exciting as the one on Norwegian Prima .

But compared to the rest of my mediocre meals on Icon of the Seas — including dinner at a specialty restaurant — my complimentary pork pita wrap from the food hall's Mediterranean-inspired stall was admittedly pretty decent.

The Cava -like meal was balanced, succulent, and filling. Ending it with a strawberry nutella crepe from one of the vendors didn't hurt either.

7. The Pearl Café with sweeping ocean views

Everyone takes a picture inside the Pearl . But few people know that the best part about the glittering structure isn't what's inside it — it's what's behind it: the Pearl Café.

Admittedly, the food wasn't standout.

But it's 2024. In this era, we don't dine for food. We dine for vibes . And the Pearl Café was definitely "serving" (even with its mediocre sandwiches).

At first glance, I had snubbed the dining and lounge area as a rip-off of a generic airport coffee shop. But during my three days on Icon, I returned to the centrally located space more often than expected. It turns out it's a great place to get some work done.

8. The lounging pods that tower above passerbys

Speaking of vibes, if you're looking for a secluded place to drink (as in, not the swim-up pool bar), few will top the Overlook Pods, perched just behind the AquaDome.

If you want to feel like you're drinking in a nest atop a tree, bring your coffee-infused cocktail from nearby Rye and Bean to one of the elevated pods. .

Just don't drink too much. What goes up must come down. And to get down from the pods, you'll have to take the stairs.

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A company is turning former cruise ships into floating hotels — see inside its largest 'floatel'

• Bridgemans ServicesGroup operates a fleet of former cruise ships turned into hotels. 
• Its "floatels" are designed to house workers during long-term projects.
• See its largest 652-cabin floatel with a game room and buffet.

Some old and unwanted cruise ships meet their demise at ship-breaking yards , where they are disassembled and sold for scrap.

Other vessels find a more fortunate fate, receiving a second chance to do what they already do best: serve as floating hotels.

Canada-based Bridgemans Services Group buys and charters former cruise ships to turn into "floatels," outfitted with standard cruise amenities like daily housekeeping, buffets, and relaxing lounges.

But the ships aren't designed to transport tourists from one destination to another anymore. Instead, companies turn to Bridgeman when they need to house workers for a long-term project, whether it be the construction of an offshore wind farm in Europe or the shooting of a major film in a remote destination.

Floatels can accommodate workers in remote destinations where hotels might not be an option.

In more metropolitan areas, Bridgemans says its ships could lessen the stress an inundation of workers might have on the local housing market.

And once they are no longer needed, the vessels depart and "leave no trace behind," the company said.

Over the last decade, Bridgemans has deployed its ships for 15 projects on every continent, Brian Grange, the company's president, told Business Insider.

Grange said that its deployments — most often for liquified natural gas companies — last for an average of two years.

In the past, it has also provided accommodations for MSC Cruises at its Ocean Cay private island and housing for more than 1,000 workers in the Philippines' on a project for the Manila International Airport during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company's three ships range from 150 to 652 cabins.

The floatel operator acquired its largest ship, the 561-foot-long MV Isabelle X, in 2023.

In its past life, the 35-year-old vessel sailed around the Baltic Sea as one of Estonia-based Tallink Gruipp's cruise ships.

But gone are its days of leisurely cruising. The 35,000 gross-ton ship is now on its first deployment in Howe Sound, just north of Vancouver, where it's housing more than 600 workers who are building Woodfibre LNG's "net zero" LNG export facility.

Isabelle X underwent a six-month retrofit before it was sent to Howe Sound.

The process included updating the ship's cabins and adding amenities like a game room and an 8,000-square-foot gym.

The latter two are especially important: "We need to make sure we delineate between work and home," Grange told BI. "We have to create a social environment on board these vessels that makes it attractive for workforces around the world."

During their free time, workers can play billiards, relax in the outdoor lounge, or use the ship’s WiFi to catch up on social media.

The sports lounge has large television screens, while the games lounge has darts, ping pong tables, and air hockey.

The 'quiet lounges' are the go-to space for people who need to unwind after a long work day.

Or, they could recharge and catch up on the latest shows in their cabins, which all come with desks, storage, and 32-inch televisions.

Like a typical cruise ship, Bridgemans' vessels have buffets with live cooking stations, a dessert bar, and the occasional themed night.

The ships' chefs tailor their menus to the demographic and dietary restrictions of the workers on board, the company's president told BI.

Residents can expect at least four protein options, plenty of veggies, and handmade bread and desserts.

Unlike most cruise lines, Bridgemans can pre-purchase all the food it needs before deployment.

Grange says this allows the ships to maintain food quality and consistency in remote locations.

Remember that deployment in the Philippines during COVID-19? He said the ship had packed almost 800 tons of food ahead of the project.

He wouldn’t disclose the cost to rent one of Bridgemans’ floatels.

But he did note that the cost of a cabin on the Woodfibre LNG project in Howe Sound is comparable to a hotel room in nearby Vancouver, as is the case with most of its projects near major cities.

The company’s most recent acquisition, the 150-cabin Diamond XI, is currently being retrofitted and would be ready for deployment this year.

According to the company's president, the vessel is small and high-end, likely to be used for sporting events and movie shoots.

It could also be the start of a greater expansion: He hopes to add two or three more vessels to its fleet in the next five years.

"The world has opened up to this as a valued alternative to housing," Grange told BI.

Who knows, the next time you see a cruise ship off the coast, there's a slim but possible chance it could be housing workers — not vacationers.

• Main content

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

Why Do My Feet And Ankles Swell On A Cruise

Published: January 2, 2024

by Marilyn Mcrae

• Sustainability
• Travel Essentials & Accessories

Introduction

Welcome aboard the magnificent world of cruising, where the open seas beckon and adventure awaits. However, while cruising offers a thrilling escape from the land, it can also bring about some unexpected changes to your body. One common issue that many cruisers experience is foot and ankle swelling. It’s not uncommon to notice your feet and ankles feeling puffy and swollen after spending some time on a cruise ship.

Understanding the reasons behind this swelling can help you take necessary precautions and ensure a comfortable voyage. Several factors can contribute to foot and ankle swelling on a cruise, ranging from the effects of prolonged sitting and standing to dehydration and dietary habits. By being aware of these causes and implementing some simple strategies, you can minimize swelling and make the most of your cruise experience.

In this article, we will explore the various reasons why your feet and ankles may swell on a cruise and offer some tips on how to prevent and alleviate this discomfort. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first voyage, this information will help you better understand your body’s response to cruising and enjoy a more relaxing and enjoyable vacation.

Understanding Foot and Ankle Swelling

Foot and ankle swelling, also known as peripheral edema, occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the tissues of the feet and ankles. This swelling can cause discomfort, tightness, and difficulty wearing shoes.

When it comes to cruising, there are a few factors that contribute to foot and ankle swelling. Firstly, changes in altitude and cabin pressure can affect fluid balance in the body, leading to fluid retention and swelling. Additionally, the increased physical activity and prolonged periods of standing or walking onboard can also put extra pressure on the lower extremities, causing fluid to pool in the feet and ankles.

Furthermore, factors such as dehydration, salt intake, and certain medical conditions can exacerbate swelling. Dehydration, which is often overlooked while on a cruise, can lead to a decrease in blood volume and result in fluid retention in the lower extremities. Similarly, consuming excessive amounts of salt, which is commonly found in processed foods and restaurant meals, can cause the body to retain water and contribute to swelling.

It’s important to note that foot and ankle swelling can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), congestive heart failure, and kidney problems can cause fluid retention and swelling in the lower extremities. If you have a history of these conditions or experience severe or persistent swelling, it’s essential to seek medical attention.

In the next sections of this article, we will delve deeper into the specific causes of foot and ankle swelling on a cruise and provide tips on how to prevent and alleviate this discomfort. By understanding the root causes and taking proactive measures, you can enjoy your cruise without letting swollen feet and ankles dampen your experience.

Causes of Swelling on a Cruise

There are several factors that can contribute to foot and ankle swelling while on a cruise. Understanding these causes can help you take appropriate measures to prevent or minimize the discomfort:

• Prolonged sitting and standing: Many activities on a cruise, such as lounging by the pool or attending shows, involve extended periods of sitting or standing. This can lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities, causing fluid to accumulate and resulting in swelling.
• Changes in altitude and cabin pressure: As a cruise ship travels to different destinations, changes in altitude and cabin pressure can affect the body’s fluid balance. These shifts can cause fluid to collect in the feet and ankles, leading to swelling.
• Dehydration: In the excitement of the cruise experience, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause a decrease in blood volume, leading to fluid retention in the feet and ankles. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in hot and humid climates.
• Diet and salt intake: Many cruise ship dining options offer delicious but often salty meals. Consuming excessive amounts of salt can cause water retention in the body, leading to swelling. Be mindful of your salt intake and opt for healthier, low-sodium food choices when possible.
• Lack of exercise: While it’s tempting to relax and enjoy the amenities on board, lack of physical activity can contribute to foot and ankle swelling. Exercise helps improve circulation and prevent fluid retention in the lower extremities. Make it a point to incorporate regular movement and stretching into your daily routine while cruising.

It’s important to note that certain medical conditions can also contribute to foot and ankle swelling. Conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), congestive heart failure, and kidney problems can cause fluid retention and swelling in the lower extremities. If you have a history of these conditions or experience severe or persistent swelling, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.

In the next sections, we will discuss steps you can take to prevent and alleviate foot and ankle swelling while on a cruise. By being proactive and making small adjustments to your lifestyle, you can ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable vacation.

Impact of Prolonged Sitting and Standing

On a cruise, we often find ourselves indulging in various activities that involve prolonged periods of sitting or standing. While it may seem harmless, these extended periods of immobility can have a significant impact on our feet and ankles, contributing to swelling. Let’s explore how sitting and standing for extended periods affect our lower extremities:

Poor circulation: When we sit or stand for long periods, blood circulation in the legs and feet can be compromised. Lack of movement hinders the blood flow, causing fluid to accumulate and leading to swelling. This is particularly common when sitting in cramped spaces, such as airplane seats or tour buses, or when standing in queues or at events.

Increased pressure on the lower extremities: Prolonged sitting or standing puts excessive pressure on the feet and ankles. This pressure can compress blood vessels, making it more difficult for blood and fluids to circulate properly. The result is fluid retention and swelling.

Effects of gravity: Our bodies are naturally affected by the force of gravity, which causes fluid to pool in the lower extremities. When sitting or standing for extended periods, gravity works against the normal flow of fluids, leading to the accumulation of fluid in the feet and ankles.

Inactivity of leg muscles: When we sit or stand for prolonged periods, our leg muscles remain inactive. These muscles play a crucial role in pumping blood back up to the heart against gravity. Without regular muscle contractions, blood and fluid can pool in the lower extremities, contributing to swelling.

To minimize the impact of prolonged sitting and standing, it’s essential to incorporate regular movement and exercise into your daily routine while on a cruise. Take breaks every hour to stretch your legs and do simple exercises like ankle circles, calf raises, or walking around the ship. Even small bursts of activity can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of swelling.

In the next sections, we will explore more tips to prevent foot and ankle swelling on a cruise. By being proactive and making mindful choices, you can ensure a more comfortable experience while exploring the magnificent destinations of your cruise.

Dehydration and its Effects on Swelling

When we think about the causes of foot and ankle swelling, dehydration might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, staying properly hydrated is crucial not only for our overall health but also for preventing swelling while on a cruise.

Dehydration occurs when your body doesn’t have enough fluid to function properly. It can happen easily on a cruise, especially in warmer climates or when engaging in physical activities. The effects of dehydration can be far-reaching, including its impact on foot and ankle swelling:

Decrease in blood volume: When you’re dehydrated, the volume of your blood decreases. This reduction in blood volume affects blood circulation, leading to fluid retention in the lower extremities and thus causing swelling in the feet and ankles.

Increased sodium concentration: Dehydration can result in an imbalance of electrolytes in the body, especially sodium. When sodium levels are high, water is retained, and swelling can occur. Cruise ship meals often contain higher levels of salt, contributing to the risk of fluid retention.

Efficient waste removal: Proper hydration is essential for the kidneys to effectively remove waste and toxins from the body. When dehydrated, the kidneys may not function optimally, leading to fluid buildup and, consequently, swelling in the feet and ankles.

So, how can you prevent dehydration and minimize the risk of foot and ankle swelling on your cruise? Here are some tips:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in hot and humid climates.
• Avoid excessive consumption of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.
• Carry a refillable water bottle with you and make it a habit to sip water regularly.
• Include hydrating foods in your diet, such as fruits and vegetables with high water content.
• Listen to your body and drink water whenever you feel thirsty.

By staying properly hydrated, you can maintain a healthy fluid balance in your body and reduce the likelihood of foot and ankle swelling. In the next sections, we will further explore dietary factors that can impact swelling and provide tips to make mindful food choices while on a cruise.

Diet and Salt Intake While Cruising

When it comes to foot and ankle swelling on a cruise, your diet and salt intake play a crucial role. Many cruise ship dining options offer a wide array of delicious meals, but they can also be laden with excessive amounts of salt. Understanding the impact of your diet and making mindful food choices can help prevent or alleviate swelling during your cruise.

Salt, or sodium chloride, is a mineral that is commonly used to enhance the flavor of foods. While we need a certain amount of sodium for proper body functioning, excessive salt intake can lead to fluid retention, which contributes to swelling in the feet and ankles. Here’s how it works:

Fluid imbalance: When you consume too much salt, your body retains water to maintain proper electrolyte balance. The excess water is stored, leading to swelling in the feet and ankles.

Increase in blood pressure: High salt intake can raise blood pressure, increasing the force exerted on blood vessels. This can affect fluid movement in the body, causing fluid to accumulate in the lower extremities.

While it may be challenging to completely avoid salt while cruising, there are steps you can take to minimize its impact on swelling:

• Choose fresh, whole foods: Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins instead of processed or pre-packaged foods. These whole foods tend to be lower in sodium and provide essential nutrients for overall health.
• Be mindful of restaurant meals: When dining in restaurants on board, ask for sauces, dressings, and seasonings to be served on the side. This way, you can control the amount of salt added to your dishes.
• Read food labels: Pay attention to food labels and choose low-sodium or salt-free alternatives when available. Compare products to find options with lower salt content.
• Limit processed and salty snacks: Items like chips, pretzels, and salted nuts can be tempting snacks while cruising. However, these snacks are usually high in salt content. Opt for healthier, low-sodium snack options instead.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out excess salt from your body. It also promotes proper kidney function, aiding in the removal of waste and reducing the risk of fluid retention.

By being mindful of your salt intake and making conscious food choices, you can minimize fluid retention and reduce the likelihood of foot and ankle swelling while enjoying the culinary delights of your cruise. In the next sections, we will explore additional tips to prevent swelling and exercises that can help alleviate discomfort during your voyage.

Tips to Prevent Foot and Ankle Swelling

Foot and ankle swelling can be uncomfortable and can hinder your enjoyment of a cruise. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent or minimize swelling during your voyage. Here are some helpful tips:

• Stay active: Incorporate regular movement and exercise into your daily routine while on a cruise. Take breaks from sitting or standing for extended periods and stretch your legs. Engage in activities such as walking or swimming to improve circulation and prevent fluid retention in the feet and ankles.
• Elevate your feet: Whenever possible, elevate your feet to encourage proper blood flow and reduce swelling. You can prop your feet up on a pillow or use a footrest. Elevating your feet above the level of your heart can help alleviate swelling.
• Avoid tight shoes: Opt for comfortable and well-fitting shoes that provide adequate support. Tight or ill-fitting shoes can restrict blood flow and contribute to swelling. Consider wearing compression socks or stockings to improve circulation in the lower extremities.
• Manage your salt intake: As mentioned earlier, reducing your salt intake can help prevent fluid retention. Be mindful of your food choices and opt for fresh, low-sodium options whenever possible. Limit your consumption of processed foods and choose healthier alternatives instead.
• Stay hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate foot and ankle swelling. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain proper hydration. Limit your intake of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to fluid loss.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to heat: Excessive exposure to heat can cause your feet and ankles to swell. To prevent this, avoid direct sunlight or hot environments for extended periods. Seek shade, wear breathable footwear, and take breaks in air-conditioned areas as needed.
• Massage your feet and ankles: Gentle massage can help stimulate blood flow and reduce swelling. Use your hands or a massage ball to apply light pressure to your feet and ankles in circular motions. This can provide relief and improve circulation.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of foot and ankle swelling on your cruise. However, if you experience severe or persistent swelling, or if you have a history of certain medical conditions, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate guidance.

In the next section, we will discuss specific exercises that can help alleviate foot and ankle swelling and promote circulation while cruising.

Recommended Exercises to Alleviate Swelling

Exercising regularly is not only beneficial for overall health but can also help alleviate foot and ankle swelling while on a cruise. By incorporating specific exercises into your daily routine, you can promote circulation, reduce fluid retention, and relieve discomfort in your lower extremities. Here are some recommended exercises to consider:

• Ankle circles: Sit comfortably and lift one foot off the ground. Rotate your ankle in a circular motion, first clockwise and then counterclockwise. Perform 10 circles in each direction for each foot.
• Calf raises: Stand with your feet hip-width apart, with your hands resting on a stable surface for balance. Simultaneously lift both heels off the ground, rising up on your toes. Hold for a few seconds, then lower your heels back down. Repeat 10-15 times.
• Toe stretches: Sit on a chair and extend one leg in front of you. Use a towel or exercise band to loop around your toes and gently pull them back towards you, stretching the muscles in the top of your foot. Hold for 15-20 seconds, then release. Repeat 3-5 times for each foot.
• Leg exercises: While sitting, extend one leg and straighten your knee. Flex your foot, pointing your toes towards your body, and hold for a few seconds. Then, point your toes away from your body and hold for a few seconds. Repeat 10 times for each foot.
• Walking or swimming: Engaging in low-impact aerobic activities like walking or swimming can help improve circulation and reduce swelling. Take a stroll around the ship’s deck or make use of the onboard swimming pool to get your blood flowing.

It’s important to listen to your body and adjust the intensity and duration of these exercises based on your comfort level. Start slowly and gradually increase the difficulty as you feel more comfortable.

Remember, these exercises are intended to alleviate swelling and improve circulation. However, if you experience any pain or discomfort, it’s important to stop and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

By incorporating these exercises into your daily routine while on a cruise, you can promote proper blood flow, reduce fluid retention, and minimize foot and ankle swelling. In the next section, we will explore medical conditions that may contribute to swelling and when it’s necessary to seek medical attention.

Medical Conditions that May Contribute to Swelling

While foot and ankle swelling is often a result of factors such as prolonged sitting, dehydration, or salt intake, it’s important to recognize that certain underlying medical conditions can also contribute to swelling. Understanding these conditions can help you determine when it’s necessary to seek medical attention. Here are some medical conditions that may contribute to foot and ankle swelling:

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): DVT is a condition where blood clots form in deep veins, typically in the legs. These clots can obstruct blood flow, leading to swelling, pain, and increased risk of complications. Prompt medical attention is essential if you experience persistent swelling, redness, warmth, or pain in your legs.
• Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): CHF occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid buildup in various parts of the body, including the feet and ankles. Swelling due to CHF is typically accompanied by shortness of breath, fatigue, and other cardiac-related symptoms. If you have a known history of heart problems and experience worsening swelling or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Kidney Problems: Kidney dysfunction can impair the body’s ability to properly eliminate waste and excess fluid, resulting in swelling. If you have kidney disease or are experiencing symptoms such as decreased urination, fatigue, or changes in urine color, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and management.
• Lymphedema: Lymphedema is a condition characterized by the accumulation of lymph fluid, typically in the arms or legs. It can be caused by damage to the lymphatic system due to surgery, radiation therapy, or infection. Swelling from lymphedema is often persistent and may worsen over time. If you suspect you have lymphedema, consult with a healthcare professional experienced in its management.
• Venous Insufficiency: Venous insufficiency occurs when the veins in the legs have difficulty returning blood to the heart. This can lead to fluid retention and swelling, as well as other symptoms such as pain, varicose veins, and skin changes. If you have symptoms of venous insufficiency, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

If you have a history of these medical conditions or suspect that an underlying condition may be contributing to your foot and ankle swelling, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can assess your symptoms, provide a diagnosis, and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Remember, while it’s natural to experience some degree of swelling during a cruise, persistent or severe swelling requires further evaluation to ensure your health and well-being. In the next section, we’ll discuss when it’s necessary to seek medical attention while on a cruise.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While foot and ankle swelling is often a common occurrence during a cruise, there are certain circumstances where it is important to seek medical attention. Recognizing when to seek help can prevent potential complications and ensure your health and safety. Here are some situations that warrant medical attention:

• Sudden and severe swelling: If you experience a sudden and significant increase in foot and ankle swelling, especially if it is accompanied by pain, redness, or warmth, it could be a sign of a serious condition such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Seek immediate medical attention to rule out any potentially life-threatening conditions.
• Persistent swelling: If your foot and ankle swelling persist for an extended period, despite attempts to alleviate it through home remedies and lifestyle changes, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Chronic swelling may be indicative of an underlying medical condition that requires further evaluation and treatment.
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain: If you experience difficulty breathing or chest pain, especially when accompanied by foot and ankle swelling, it could be a sign of congestive heart failure or other cardiac-related issues. Seek urgent medical attention in such cases.
• Worsening symptoms: If your foot and ankle swelling worsen over time or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, chills, or changes in urine output, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to identify any underlying causes and initiate appropriate treatment.
• Known medical conditions: If you have pre-existing medical conditions such as kidney disease, heart problems, or lymphedema, and you notice a significant change in your foot and ankle swelling, it is best to consult your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. If you are unsure or concerned about your foot and ankle swelling, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Medical professionals are trained to evaluate and treat such conditions and will provide appropriate guidance based on your specific circumstances.

By being attentive to changes in swelling patterns and knowing when to seek medical attention, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable cruise experience. In the next section, we will conclude our article with a summary of the key points discussed.

Foot and ankle swelling can be a common occurrence while on a cruise, but understanding its underlying causes and implementing preventive measures can help ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable voyage. Factors such as prolonged sitting and standing, dehydration, salt intake, and certain medical conditions can contribute to swelling. By addressing these factors proactively, you can minimize fluid retention and reduce the discomfort associated with swollen feet and ankles.

Some helpful tips to prevent foot and ankle swelling on a cruise include staying active, elevating your feet, managing your salt intake, staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to heat, and incorporating exercises that promote circulation. These strategies can improve blood flow, reduce fluid retention, and alleviate swelling.

However, it’s essential to be aware that foot and ankle swelling can also be a sign of underlying medical conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, congestive heart failure, kidney problems, lymphedema, or venous insufficiency. If you experience severe or persistent swelling or have a history of these conditions, seeking medical attention is crucial to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Ultimately, by being mindful of your body’s needs, making healthy choices, and seeking medical attention when necessary, you can enjoy a more comfortable and worry-free cruise experience. So, set sail on your adventure, knowing that you are well-equipped to prevent and manage foot and ankle swelling while creating unforgettable memories along the way.

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Monster growth! The cruise boom at Carnival continues with debut of another new ship

Make that five new ships for Carnival Cruise Line in just 18 months.

The world's second-biggest cruise brand on Thursday welcomed the first cruisers aboard yet another new vessel, the 4,126-passenger Carnival Firenze, in Long Beach, California.

The 135,156-ton ship is debuting just four months after Carnival unveiled the even bigger 5,374-passenger Carnival Jubilee and 11 months after the line began operating the 4,090-passenger Carnival Venezia .

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The latter two ships operate out of Galveston, Texas, and New York City, respectively. Carnival Venezia also spends part of the year sailing out of Port Canaveral, Florida.

Over the past 18 months, Carnival has also added the Miami-based, 5,374-passenger Carnival Celebration and the Australia-based, 2,260-passenger Carnival Luminosa . Carnival Luminosa also spends part of the year sailing out of Seattle.

The addition of the five ships to the Carnival fleet over such a short time span marks one of the fastest expansions of any cruise brand in the history of cruising.

With the addition of the five ships, Carnival now has a record 27 vessels in its fleet.

A new ship with an asterisk

Scheduled to sail year-round out of Long Beach, California, Carnival Firenze is a new ship for Carnival, but it's new with an asterisk. The 15-deck-high vessel has sailed before for another cruise line, Italy-based Costa Cruises.

Originally called Costa Firenze, the vessel sailed its maiden voyage for Costa, a sister brand to Carnival, in July 2021, making it nearly three years old.

Carnival Firenze is just one of several Costa vessels that Carnival Corporation, the parent company of Costa and Carnival, has transferred from Costa to Carnival in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic and its aftermath hurt the Costa brand much more than the Carnival brand. This was in part because the Costa brand had big operations in China, where cruising shut down during the pandemic for far longer than it did in North America.

Carnival operates most of its ships out of U.S. ports and draws a lot of the customers for these ships from the states near these ports — a segment of close-to-home cruising that has been booming since cruising resumed in 2021.

The result has been a stronger demand for Carnival ships than Costa ships.

Carnival Firenze's first sailing for Carnival, starting Thursday, will be a seven-night voyage to the Mexican Riviera that includes stops at Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas.

Carnival cruising with an Italian twist

Like Carnival Venezia, which also is a former Costa ship, Carnival Firenze is something of an outlier in the Carnival fleet as the vessel retains much of its Italian theming from when it sailed for Costa.

The ship also still has its original, distinctive gold-and-blue funnel that is a trademark of Costa's vessels.

That said, Carnival Firenze won't be devoid of Carnival's signature shipboard venues. In recent months, the ship has undergone a significant overhaul in a dry dock in Spain that included the re-theming of many interior eateries and bars, as well as top-deck attractions to make them more consistent with the Carnival brand.

For instance, the ship will have a Carnival Waterworks water play area and a Steakhouse — a signature Carnival venue.

Related: The 8 classes of Carnival Cruise Line ships, explained

Other venues now on the ship that will be familiar to Carnival fans include a Guy Fieri-inspired Guy's Burger Joint, a Bonsai Sushi eatery, a Chef's Table, Lido Marketplace, Seafood Shack, a Pizzeria del Capitano pizza outlet and a Heroes Tribute Bar.

The ship also will have a new crew made up of Carnival staffers.

In short, Carnival Firenze will combine elements of both Costa and Carnival ships.

Carnival originally planned to call the ship a "Costa by Carnival" product to differentiate it from the rest of the Carnival fleet, but it eventually switched to marketing Carnival Firenze as a vessel that offers "Carnival Fun Italian Style."

Carnival Firenze, notably, was originally purpose-built to sail out of China with Chinese travelers but with Italian theming that played up Costa's Italian roots. Its theming is specifically tied to Florence, Italy — Firenze is what Italians call Florence.

The Carnival and Costa brands have long had similarities that make a transfer of ships between the two lines less complex than one might think. Ships for both Costa and Carnival often are built on the same platforms — that is, they share the same basic structural design and rough interior spaces. In such cases, the main difference between the ships of the two brands is the theming of specific spaces.

As of this week, fares for Carnival Firenze sailings start at $214 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a four-night sailing from Long Beach to Mexico.

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• China's 2nd homegrown large cruise ship enters shipyard for final assembly

A keel laying ceremony of China's second domestically-produced large cruise ship is held on April 20, 2024 in Shanghai, marking the onset of the vessel's hull structure assembly and another achievement of China's shipbuilding prowess. (Photo by Chen Mengze/for China Daily)

A keel laying ceremony of China's second domestically-produced large cruise ship was held on Saturday morning in Shanghai, marking the onset of the vessel's hull structure assembly and another achievement of China's shipbuilding prowess, according to official sources. 

Chen Gang, general manager of the vessel's builder China State Shipbuilding Corporation's (CSSC) Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co Ltd called the ceremony a milestone in China's cruise industry development. 

"In comparison with the first one, the second homegrown cruise ship was built more efficiently in terms of design and construction, with higher quality and standards," said Chen. 

The vessel has currently completed 20 percent of its total construction workload, with its design, construction, procurement and logistics well underway. 

Garnering ample experience from building the first China-made cruise ship Adora Magic City, CSSC has optimized the construction of a second large cruise ship and enhanced the efficiency by 20 percent, said Chen Jianwei, assistant to the general manager of China State Shipbuilding Corporation's (CSSC) Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co Ltd. 

The efficiency improvement will come along with design optimization, including supply chain development and management, as well as process innovation, according to Chen. 

To be named and delivered by the end of 2026, the vessel is expected to get floated in May 2025, which means its construction is at the halfway mark and ready for undocking in March 2026, said Chen, who is also the construction director of Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding's large cruise project. 

The 141,900-gross-tonnage ship will be 341-meter-long and 37.2-meter-wide, 17.4 meters longer than the first one. In the meantime, the vessel will add 19 more guest rooms to expand its rooms to 2,144. 

China's first self-made cruise ship Adora Magic City launched its maiden commercial voyage on the first day of 2024, and has successfully completed 26 trips and served more than 100,000 passengers home and abroad so far, official sources said.

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