fire protection on cruise ships

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CLIA's oceangoing members have adopted this policy to reflect best practices regarding fire protection measures for covered mooring decks on cruise ships. This policy is effective on December 31, 2015, and applies to cruise ships having a covered mooring deck, which is described as a mooring station on an open deck that is located below accommodation, service, or other spaces. CLIA cruise lines are to provide a fixed fire detection and alarm system and a fixed fire suppression system that are suitable for protection of a covered mooring deck, taking into account the general arrangement of the mooring deck, risk of fire, location of mooring lines while stowed and in use, and any manufacturer recommendations for installation of such systems on an open deck, as well as any flag State requirements. The detection system on a covered mooring deck should initiate audible and visual alarms that are integrated into the fixed fire detection and alarm system for other parts of the ship. The fire suppression system, whether of a design that is activated automatically or manually, should have a local manual release capability that is clearly marked and located adjacent to and outside the protected space. As part of this policy, CLIA cruise lines are to establish procedures intended to regularly test the function of the fixed fire detection and alarm system and to train relevant ship’s crew in manual activation of the fixed fire suppression system on the covered mooring deck while at sea and in port.

To increase the level of safety in the event of a fire onboard, CLIA’s members have adopted a policy that each cruise vessel operator install local sounding smoke alarms1 in all passenger and crew cabins that are intended to immediately alert occupants of the cabin to the presence of smoke in all ships that are not required to comply with Regulations 7.5.1 and 7.5.2 of Chapter II-2 of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). These local alarms, when operated in conjunction with the smoke detection and alarm system required by SOLAS, enhance smoke detection with minimal adverse operational impact.

Central to the presence of local sounding smoke alarms is the premise that these alarms should not interfere with internationally required fire detection systems or operational procedures necessary for passenger management in the event of an emergency. Local sounding smoke alarms should not render the public address system ineffective, prevent efficient communications between crew and passengers or within the fire team, or otherwise prevent the passing of information necessary in responding to an emergency.

CLIA’s policy recognizes that life safety onboard cruise ships in the event of a fire is enhanced by a system of safety that incorporates: structural fire resistant design; fire detection and extinguishing systems (including smoke detectors and alarms, sprinkler systems, and fire mains); emergency response teams that have received advanced training in shipboard firefighting; and shipboard operational response procedures formulated for specific emergency situations.

Under CLIA’s policy, local sounding smoke alarms are not to be relied on as the sole means of assuring that a passenger or crewmember is alerted to the possibility of danger from smoke or fire. When smoke detector activation causes an alarm to sound on the bridge or in the ships safety center, CLIA’s policy is that cruise operators also alert the compartment occupant and ascertain if there is indeed a fire, a practice that has existed previously. To this end, CLIA’s policy calls for the following actions:

Immediately direct one or more crew members to the location of the activated smoke detector to investigate.

Immediately place a telephone call from the ship’s safety center to the affected passenger cabin or crew cabin where equipped with a telephone.

In the event of the activation of multiple smoke detectors throughout a space or in more than one space, and in the absence of specific knowledge or additional information regarding the origin of these alarms, immediately assemble and, in the absence of confirmation that there is no fire, dispatch a fire response team.

Additionally, under CLIA’s policy members are to provide passenger instruction on what action to take in the event of the activation of a local sounding alarm. Such instruction may be provided via in-room written, electronic and/or video safety information. Such instructions should include, but are not limited to, the meaning of the alarm and the action the passenger is directed to take. Training for the crew regarding how to respond to local sounding alarms is to be given at appropriate intervals and included in the crew safety manuals required by SOLAS.

1 Local sounding smoke alarm means an audible signal that is emitted within a passenger or crew cabin where a smoke detector is activated and which is of sufficient sound pressure (loudness) to alert occupants of the cabin to the possibility of danger from smoke. 

CLIA's oceangoing members have adopted this policy to reflect best practices regarding water mist fire suppression systems on cruise ships. This policy is effective on December 31, 2015, and applies to cruise ships fitted with a water mist fire suppression system in category “A” machinery spaces. CLIA cruise lines are to eliminate to the extent practicable any programmed time delay from an automated activation sequence of the water mist system and to provide a redundant source of power or supply pressure to the water mist system in the event of power loss. As part of this policy, CLIA cruise lines are to establish procedures intended to maintain adequate head pressure in the water mist system while discharging, in the event multiple adjacent detectors or nozzles are activated, such as through the use of smoke control barriers, isolation valves, or similar measures.

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Fire safety aboard cruise ships: procedures and tips.

• October 29, 2023

Ahoy there! Join us as we explore the fascinating world of fire safety aboard cruise ships. From essential procedures to handy tips, we’ll navigate through the sea of knowledge and provide you with the tools you need to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey on the high seas. So grab your lifejacket, and let’s embark on this enlightening adventure together!

Table of Contents

Understanding Fire Risks on Cruise Ships

Cruise ships are luxurious and exciting vacation destinations, but it’s important to be aware of the potential fire hazards that can arise onboard. Fire incidents on cruise ships can be extremely dangerous due to the enclosed nature of the vessel and the large number of passengers and crew onboard. Understanding the risks associated with fires on cruise ships is essential to ensuring the safety of everyone onboard.

Overview of potential fire hazards

Cruise ships are equipped with various systems and safety measures to prevent and mitigate fires, but it’s essential to understand the common fire hazards that can arise. Some potential fire hazards on cruise ships include electrical malfunctions, cooking equipment, smoking in prohibited areas, flammable materials such as bedding and upholstery, and even arson. It’s crucial for both passengers and crew members to be aware of these risks and take necessary precautions to prevent fires from occurring.

Previous fire incidents on cruise ships

Although cruise ship fires are relatively rare, there have been some notable incidents in the past. One such incident occurred in 1998 when a fire broke out on the Carnival Ecstasy, resulting in the loss of power and the activation of the ship’s sprinkler system. The crew was able to successfully evacuate all passengers, but the incident highlighted the importance of having effective fire safety measures in place. These incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of constant vigilance and adherence to fire safety protocols.

Common causes of fire aboard cruise ships

Fires on cruise ships can have various causes, but some common ones include electrical failures, human error, negligence, and the presence of flammable materials. Faulty wiring or overloaded circuits can lead to electrical fires, while improper use or maintenance of cooking equipment can also result in fires. Negligent behavior such as smoking in non-designated areas or mishandling flammable substances can also contribute to fire incidents. It’s crucial for passengers and crew members to be mindful of these potential causes and take preventive measures to minimize the risk of fires.

Cruise Ship Fire Safety Regulations

To ensure the safety of passengers and crew members, cruise ships must comply with a set of fire safety regulations. These regulations encompass both international standards and guidelines established by individual cruise ship companies.

International Maritime Organization’s regulations

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the governing body responsible for the safety and security of international shipping. The IMO has established several regulations and guidelines specifically addressing fire safety on cruise ships. These regulations cover areas such as construction standards, fire detection and suppression systems, emergency response procedures, and crew training requirements. Cruise ships must comply with these IMO regulations to ensure the safety of all onboard.

Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS)

The Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention is an international treaty that sets minimum standards for the safety of ships, including cruise ships. SOLAS includes specific requirements for fire safety, such as the provision of appropriate fire detection and suppression systems, as well as emergency response procedures. Cruise ships must adhere to SOLAS regulations and undergo periodic inspections to ensure compliance with these standards.

U.S. Coast Guard’s regulations

In addition to international regulations, cruise ships operating within the United States must comply with the fire safety regulations set forth by the U.S. Coast Guard. These regulations, known as the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) requirements, impose additional standards and guidelines for fire safety on cruise ships operating in U.S. waters. The U.S. Coast Guard conducts regular inspections of cruise ships to verify compliance with these regulations.

Cruise ship company’s own internal regulations

Cruise ship companies often implement their own internal regulations to enhance fire safety measures. These regulations may go beyond the minimum requirements set by international and national bodies and include additional safety measures specific to each company. Cruise ship companies invest significant resources in fire safety training, equipment, and technology to ensure the utmost safety of their passengers and crew members.

Fire Detection Systems on Cruise Ships

Fire detection systems play a critical role in identifying and alerting passengers and crew members to the presence of a fire onboard a cruise ship. These systems are designed to detect smoke, flames, and heat and provide early warnings to enable swift and effective responses.

Smoke detectors

Smoke detectors are a vital component of fire detection systems on cruise ships. These devices use sensors to detect the presence of smoke particles in the air. When smoke is detected, the alarm is triggered, alerting nearby individuals of a potential fire. Smoke detectors are strategically placed throughout the ship’s public spaces, cabins, and crew areas to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Flame detectors

Flame detectors are specialized devices that can detect the presence of flames or the characteristic infrared radiation emitted by a fire. These detectors are particularly useful in areas where smoke may not be the primary indicator of a fire, such as engine rooms and machinery spaces. Flame detectors can swiftly identify the presence of a fire and trigger the appropriate response.

Heat detectors

Heat detectors are designed to activate when they sense an increase in temperature above a predetermined threshold. These detectors are often used in areas where smoke and flames may not be readily detected, such as storage rooms or laundry facilities. Heat detectors provide an additional layer of protection by detecting fires that may not produce significant smoke or flames initially.

Automatic fire alarms

Automatic fire alarms are integrated systems that combine various types of detectors, including smoke, flame, and heat detectors. These alarms provide quick and reliable detection of fires, ensuring that the appropriate response can be initiated promptly. Upon activation, automatic fire alarms alert the ship’s crew and trigger other safety measures, such as activating sprinkler systems and initiating evacuation procedures.

Fire Suppression Systems on Cruise Ships

In the event of a fire on a cruise ship, it’s crucial to have effective fire suppression systems in place to extinguish the fire or limit its spread. Cruise ships are equipped with a range of fire suppression systems, each designed to combat fires in different areas and scenarios.

Fire sprinkler systems

Fire sprinkler systems are perhaps the most well-known and widely used fire suppression systems on cruise ships. These systems are comprised of a network of pipes and sprinkler heads that are strategically placed throughout the ship. When heat from a fire is detected, the sprinkler heads in the vicinity of the fire are triggered, releasing a stream of water to extinguish the fire and prevent its spread.

Carbon dioxide systems

Carbon dioxide (CO2) systems are commonly used in areas hosting sensitive equipment, such as engine rooms and machinery spaces. When a fire is detected, CO2 is released into the affected area, displacing oxygen and suffocating the fire. These systems are highly effective in spaces where water or other firefighting agents may be impractical or pose additional risks.

Foam systems

Foam systems are specifically designed to combat fires involving flammable liquids, such as fuel or oil fires. These systems use a mixture of foam concentrate and water to create a foam blanket that suppresses the fire, preventing the release of flammable vapors and cooling the fuel source. Foam systems are commonly installed in areas such as loading docks, fuel storage areas, and helicopter landing pads.

Dry chemical systems

Dry chemical systems utilize powdered extinguishing agents, such as dry chemical or dry powder, to suppress fires. These systems are effective in combating fires involving flammable liquids, electrical equipment, and combustible materials. When activated, the dry chemical agent is discharged onto the fire, smothering it and preventing re-ignition. Dry chemical systems are commonly found in galley areas, engine rooms, and machinery spaces.

Water mist systems

Water mist systems are a relatively newer technology that utilizes fine water droplets to suppress fires. These systems work by quickly evaporating water into steam, displacing oxygen and reducing the heat of the fire. Water mist systems can be particularly effective in enclosed spaces where traditional sprinkler systems may cause excessive water damage. They are commonly found in accommodations areas, public spaces, and machinery rooms.

Emergency Response Procedures for Fires

A swift and well-coordinated response is crucial in managing fires on cruise ships. Emergency response procedures are developed and implemented to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members and prevent the spread of fires.

Initial discovery of a fire

Upon discovering a fire, it is essential to alert the ship’s crew immediately through the nearest emergency alarm or by directly informing crew members. Time is of the essence, and prompt action can significantly minimize the damage caused by the fire.

Initiating the alarm

Upon confirmation of a fire, initiating the ship’s alarm system is vital to alert all passengers and crew members to the emergency. The ship’s alarm system typically includes audible alarms, visual indicators, and public address systems. Activating the alarm helps ensure a rapid and orderly evacuation of the ship.

Evacuation procedures

Evacuating the ship in an orderly manner is a critical step in ensuring the safety of everyone onboard. Cruise ships are equipped with designated assembly stations and lifeboats/life rafts to facilitate an organized evacuation. Passengers and crew members should familiarize themselves with their assigned assembly stations and evacuation routes during passenger briefings.

Role of the ship’s crew during a fire

The ship’s crew plays a vital role in managing fires and guiding passengers to safety. Crew members are trained to respond swiftly and efficiently to fires, ensuring the safe evacuation of passengers and implementing necessary fire suppression measures. Crew members are also responsible for maintaining calm and orderly conduct during an emergency, providing reassurance and clear instructions to passengers.

Utilizing lifeboats and life rafts

In the event of a fire, if evacuation becomes necessary, passengers and crew members must evacuate the ship using lifeboats and life rafts. These life-saving appliances are designed to keep individuals afloat and protected until rescue arrives. Passengers and crew members should follow the instructions provided during passenger briefings regarding the proper use and deployment of lifeboats and life rafts.

Fire Safety Equipment on Cruise Ships

Cruise ships are equipped with a variety of fire safety equipment to combat fires and ensure the safety of everyone onboard. These equipment and safety measures are in place to prevent fires from escalating and to provide a means of extinguishing small fires.

Fire extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are crucial fire safety equipment found throughout the ship. They are portable devices that contain extinguishing agents, such as dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide, or foam. Passengers and crew members should familiarize themselves with the location and use of fire extinguishers to suppress small fires before they can grow.

Fire hoses and hydrants

Fire hoses and hydrants serve as an additional means of firefighting onboard cruise ships. These systems are connected to the ship’s water supply or firefighting systems and provide a readily available source of water to combat fires. Crew members are specially trained in the proper use of fire hoses and hydrants to effectively control and extinguish fires.

Protective clothing for crew

To ensure the safety of crew members involved in firefighting activities, cruise ships provide them with specialized protective clothing. This includes flame-resistant clothing, helmets, gloves, and breathing apparatus, such as self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). These items protect crew members from heat, smoke, and other hazards associated with firefighting.

Escape routes and emergency exits

Cruise ships are designed with clearly marked escape routes and emergency exits to facilitate the safe evacuation of individuals in the event of a fire. Passengers and crew members should familiarize themselves with these routes during passenger briefings and be prepared to follow them in an orderly manner during an emergency.

Life-saving appliances

In addition to fire safety equipment, cruise ships are equipped with a range of life-saving appliances that can aid in emergency situations. These appliances include lifebuoys, life jackets, immersion suits, and other flotation devices. By having these appliances readily available and properly maintained, cruise ships are able to enhance the safety of individuals onboard during emergencies, including fires.

Fire Safety Training for Crew Members

Cruise ship crew members undergo rigorous fire safety training to ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage fires effectively. Training drills and exercises are conducted regularly to simulate emergency situations and allow crew members to practice their firefighting techniques.

Regular training drills

Cruise ship companies require crew members to participate in regular training drills, which includes fire emergency scenarios. These drills allow crew members to become familiar with their assigned roles and responsibilities during a fire and ensure that they are prepared to respond swiftly and efficiently. Regular training drills help maintain a high level of readiness and ensure that crew members are well-versed in fire safety protocols.

Firefighting skills and techniques

Crew members undergo training in various firefighting skills and techniques to equip them with the necessary knowledge to combat fires onboard. This training includes fire behavior, fire suppression techniques, equipment operation, and coordination with other crew members. By training crew members in these essential skills, cruise ships enhance their ability to respond effectively to fires.

The importance of communication during a fire

Effective communication is critical during a fire emergency to ensure that all individuals are aware of the situation and can take appropriate action. Crew members are trained in communication techniques to maintain clear and concise communication with both passengers and other crew members. This helps ensure a coordinated response and a swift evacuation if necessary.

Proper use of safety equipment

Crew members receive comprehensive training on the proper use of safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, fire hoses, and personal protective equipment. This training emphasizes the importance of using equipment correctly to maximize its effectiveness in combating fires and protecting crew members.

Passenger Briefings and Evacuation Procedures

Passenger briefings and clear evacuation procedures are critical in preparing passengers for potential fire emergencies. These briefings ensure that passengers are aware of the ship’s safety features, evacuation routes, and the importance of following instructions during an emergency.

Muster drills

Before a cruise ship sets sail, passengers are required to participate in a muster drill that includes important safety information. Muster drills familiarize passengers with the ship’s emergency procedures, evacuation routes, and the location and use of safety equipment. Passengers should pay close attention during these drills and actively participate to ensure their understanding of the procedures.

Understanding the evacuation plan

Passengers should familiarize themselves with the ship’s evacuation plan, which outlines the designated assembly stations and evacuation routes. This information is typically provided in the passenger staterooms and during passenger briefings. Understanding the evacuation plan is crucial to ensure a quick and efficient evacuation in the event of a fire emergency.

Location and use of life vests

Passengers should know the location and proper use of life vests, as these are essential lifesaving devices during emergencies at sea. Life vests are typically stored in passenger staterooms or in designated areas throughout the ship. Passengers should ensure that they know how to properly don and secure their life vests, as well as how to activate any additional features, such as lights or whistles.

Listening to and following crew instructions

During a fire emergency, it’s crucial for passengers to listen to and follow the instructions given by the ship’s crew. Crew members are trained in emergency procedures and have the knowledge and experience to guide passengers to safety. By following their instructions, passengers can ensure their own safety and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the emergency response.

Fire Safety Tips for Cruise Ship Passengers

Passengers play a significant role in maintaining fire safety on cruise ships. By being mindful of fire hazards and following specific safety measures, passengers can contribute to a safe and enjoyable cruise experience.

Understanding the layout of the ship

Upon boarding the ship, passengers should take the time to familiarize themselves with the layout and location of important areas, such as their staterooms, evacuation routes, assembly stations, and safety equipment. This knowledge can prove crucial during an emergency, as passengers will be able to navigate the ship and find their way to safety more efficiently.

Avoiding fire hazards

Passengers should be mindful of potential fire hazards and take steps to prevent fires. This includes refraining from smoking in non-designated areas, properly disposing of cigarette butts, and avoiding the use of open flames or other hazardous materials. Following simple guidelines and being responsible can significantly reduce the risk of a fire onboard.

Importance of attending safety briefings

Passengers should prioritize attending safety briefings and muster drills. These briefings provide important information on emergency procedures, evacuation routes, and the proper use of safety equipment. By actively participating in these activities, passengers can ensure that they are well-prepared and ready to respond appropriately in the event of a fire or other emergency.

What to do if a fire breaks out

In the event of a fire, passengers should remain calm and immediately report the fire to the ship’s crew. They should follow crew instructions and evacuate to their assigned assembly stations or designated areas. It’s important to remember that quick and orderly evacuation is crucial to ensuring the safety of all individuals onboard. Passengers should avoid using elevators during the evacuation and take the stairs instead.

Hi, I'm Jeff Jones, the author behind Cruises Uncovered. Embark on unforgettable journeys with us as we explore the world by sea. At Cruises Uncovered, we are your personal compass, helping you navigate the vast seas of cruise travel. Whether you're a seasoned maritime explorer or new to cruising, we cater to all wanderlust seekers. Our team of passionate globetrotters and cruise aficionados curate in-depth guides, inspiring stories, and practical tips. We believe that every voyage is a unique story waiting to be written, and we're here to provide you with the inspiration and resources to craft your own maritime tale. Join us as we uncover the allure of cruising and embark on incredible journeys of discovery.

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In case of fire

The safety of passengers is paramount on a cruise ship. It is, therefore, essential to stay up to date with the latest fire regulations and standards to avoid disaster. Abi Millar speaks to Eddie Segev, senior vice-president of safety, security and environment at Royal Caribbean Group, and Andreas Hildingsson, principal surveyor and ship type expert passenger ships at DNV Maritime, about the importance of fire protection and firefighting on cruise ships.

If there’s one eventuality you want to avoid on board a cruise ship, it’s a fire. Floating on the high seas, sometimes hundreds of miles from land, a cruise ship is in a uniquely vulnerable position in this regard. If not dealt with properly, fires could imperil the lives of thousands of passengers and crew.

Although major incidents are rare – and fatalities even rarer – the incidents that have arisen are a sobering reminder of the need for precautions. According to data compiled by cruise expert Ross Klein, as many as 79 fires occurred on cruise ships between 1990 and 2011. While most were small and rapidly dealt with, the industry should be taking any fire as a warning against complacency.

Over the past decade alone, we have seen fires break out on Carnival Triumph (2013), Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas (2013), Oceania Insignia (2014), Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas (2015), Caribbean Fantasy (2016), Carnival Legend (2019) and MSC Lirica (2021). All these fires were safely contained without casualties excluding the Oceania Insignia fire, which tragically killed three workers.

The most recent example came on 26 May 2022, shortly after Carnival Freedom had docked in port. The ship’s funnel caught alight, forcing the ship to be evacuated. The sister ship, Carnival Conquest, was sent out to retrieve passengers and complete the last leg of the cruise.

“Carnival Freedom’s emergency response team quickly activated and extinguished a fire inside the ship’s funnel while the ship was in Grand Turk,” said Carnival in a statement. “All guests and crew are safe, and the ship’s guests were cleared by local authorities to go ashore. We continue to assess the situation.”

It’s clear that quick responsiveness in this situation – coupled with strong fire prevention and protection systems – can be a lifesaver. So, how are cruise lines dealing with the possibility of fires and what kinds of standards must they abide by to avoid a disaster?

The standards in place

“We understand the risks associated with fires on board cruise ships, and our approach is to proactively work towards the prevention of fire occurrences,” says Eddie Segev, senior vice-president of safety, security and environment at Royal Caribbean Group. “We have robust policies in place, which include large investments in new technologies like laser detection of fuel leaks, as well as partnerships with local and international training facilities.”

Andreas Hildingsson, principal surveyor and ship type expert passenger ships at DNV Maritime, adds that cruise ships have a major responsibility on their hands. They need to be especially vigilant about safety protocols.

“A key challenge is dealing with large numbers of passengers in a limited space, and potentially operating in a remote area without shore support,” he says. “Basically, they need to provide all the functions of a small city in a limited space.”

The first step for shipowners is to comply with the applicable fire standards. Cruise lines are primarily governed by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO)’s Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations, which were first laid down more than a century ago in response to the sinking of the Titanic.

Following a passenger ship fire in 1934, which caused 134 casualties, IMO added further fire-specific requirements. These were updated in 1974, with the addition of Chapter II-2. Among other rules, the new chapter required all new passenger ships to be built from non-combustible materials and to have either a fixed fire sprinkler or a fixed fire detection system installed.

Since then, there have been several additional rounds of amendments. SOLAS now includes detailed rules around many aspects of fire safety, ranging from the fire integrity of windows to the specifics of helicopter facility foam firefighting appliances.

Cruise ships must also follow flag administration standards, along with the CLIA compendium of policies if they’re a CLIA member.

“Examples include ensuring the readiness of all fixed fire detection and suppression systems, as well as portable firefighting equipment through the multiple weekly and monthly inspections,” says Segev.

Prevention and protection

At Royal Caribbean, this plays out in a few ways. First, crew members conduct regular inspections of every space on board. The idea is to guarantee readiness, but also to make sure all combustible materials are stored in the right place.

Next, the cruise line has strict policies in place around open flames and smoking. These must be done in a controlled and responsible way, and must be monitored at all times. For instance, smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas, with the staterooms and interior public areas kept smoke-free. As for candles, incense and the like – these are entirely prohibited.

“Filtering and cleaning of lint in laundry rooms, elimination of grease in galley ducts, proper disposal of oily rags and towels, garbage handling and incinerator safety are other key fire safety standards all our ships are required to follow,” says Segev.

Finally, all ships are equipped with high-pressure water mist to extinguish any blazes that do arise. For instance, Marioff’s HI-FOG water mist fire protection systems (currently installed on hundreds of cruise ships worldwide) have been designed to protect a wide range of spaces.

Suitable for use in the staterooms, deep fat fryers, machinery spaces and pump rooms alike, the sprinklers include a heat-sensitive gas bulb, which breaks and activates the system at a certain temperature. The pump unit starts automatically, discharging water mist throughout the area. (Marioff says that its systems, unlike earlier types of water sprinkler, are designed to keep water damage to a minimum.)

Systems of this nature, along with other fixed firefighting systems (CO2 and foam, ventilation control, closure of fire doors and others), represent a vessel’s first line of defence. As Hildingsson points out, ships need to look beyond their ‘fire prevention’ focus and think about containment too.

“They need to include systems for detecting a fire, such as smoke alarms,” he says. “Additionally, cruise vessels must comply with strict requirements for escape routes, as well as strict requirements around training and drills for crew.”

The role played by crew and passengers

‘Strict’, then, is really the watchword – unsurprising when you consider the stakes. Should the worst-case scenario arise, the crew will know exactly what to do, while specially assigned firefighters will arrive promptly on the scene to contain and extinguish the blaze.

“Despite the high effectiveness fire detection and suppression systems offer, we always activate highly trained fire teams in parallel,” says Segev. “We provide verbal instructions over the PA system, which will activate and direct different tactical groups to the location of the fire for the rapid commencement of firefighting efforts.”

The relevant training, he says, takes place in approved facilities ashore, supplemented with weekly training by safety officers once on board. Every week, crew members participate in fire drills, with scenarios ranging from engine room fires to those in the staterooms and public spaces.

“This training is governed by international standards. In addition, crew members are trained and tasked to guide passengers to right locations in the case of a calamity,” says Hildingsson.

The situation for passengers would depend on the nature of the fire. Sometimes, as a proactive measure, cruise lines would summon passengers at the earliest stages of an emergency. In this instance, the ship’s safety officer would use the PA system to sound the emergency signal and let them know what they needed to do next.

“A key challenge is dealing with large numbers of passengers in a limited space, and potentially operating in a remote area without shore support. Basically, they need to provide all the functions of a small city in a limited space.”

Andreas Hildingsson

“All passengers are familiarised with this alarm when they receive the mandatory safety briefing during embarkation day and all ships are required to physically sound such alarm before departure,” says Segev. “This and more safety information for all passengers can be found at the back of their stateroom door, in the TV or RCG app.”

These kinds of safety protocols are in place across the industry. According to CLIA, the average ship plays host to five advanced firefighting teams, 4,000 smoke detectors, 500 fire extinguishers, 16 miles of sprinkler piping, 5,000 sprinkler heads and six miles of fire hose. While a fire would certainly put a dampener on passengers’ holiday plans, they can at least be assured that any modern ship exists in a state of constant vigilance.

“Our goal is to ensure we always have an active barrier against fires,” says Segev. “While the various sets of regulations provide the minimum standards we abide by, our mantra is to always go above and beyond compliance. We frequently adopt more stringent fire safety policies and procedures.”

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• Fire protection
• Maritime Safety

Fire can devastating on a ship - particularly on a passenger ship, where large numbers of people may need to be evacuated, or on a ship carrying inflammable cargo, with serious risks to crewmembers or to ports and harbours.

On 1 July 2002, a comprehensive new set of requirements for fire protection, fire detection and fire extinction on board ships entered into force as a new revised chapter II-2 of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, as amended, incorporating technological advances in fire detection and extinction as well as lessons learned from fire incidents over the years.

The regulations are designed to ensure that fires are first of all prevented from occurring - for example by making sure that materials such as carpets and wall coverings are strictly controlled to reduce the fire risk; secondly, that any fires are rapidly detected; and thirdly; that any fire is contained and extinguished. Designing ships to ensure easy evacuation routes for crew and passengers are a key element of the chapter.

Current work

For the current work on fire safety matters, see the SSE Sub-Committee's meeting summaries .

Publications

The following publications are available from IMO:

SOLAS Consolidated Edition, 2020 edition

Fire Safety Systems (FSS) Code, 2015 edition

International Code for Application of Fire Test Procedures, 2010 (2010 FTP Code), 2012 edition

Model Course: 1.20 - Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting, 2000 edition

Model Course: 2.03- Advanced Training in Fire Fighting, 2000 edition

Model Course: 3.05- Survey of Fire Appliances and Provisions, 2004 edition

Symbols for Fire Control Plans, 2006 Edition

Click to learn more about how to obtain IMO publications.

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Tackling fire onboard: Where we stand

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In 2020, there was an approximate average of one fire every two weeks onboard ships, while fire/explosion remained the third most common cause of ship total losses (11%) over the past decade. These recent numbers by Allianz show the problem persists despite coordinated industry efforts to minimize such incidents.

F ire onboard remains among the main safety concerns for shipping, since, unlike a fire incident ashore, seafarers are not able to walk away in case of such occurrence and are thus dependent upon adequate fire prevention measures. However, the Safety and Shipping Review 2021  by Allianz revealed that the number of fires/explosions resulting in total losses of vessels increased again year-on-year in 2020, hitting a four-year high of 10. Vessel size has a direct correlation to the potential size of loss, while fire hazards onboard are common both in the engine room and the accommodation rooms.   

4 common causes of fire onboard

1. Oil leakage : Leakage from high-pressure fuel oil pipes is the most common risk for fire onboard as oil from these pipes can accidentally fall in high temperature areas due to the machinery involved. 

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Do :  Insulate any hot surface with a temperature above 220 C to prevent any oil encountering a hot surface  

Don’t :  Invest in poor quality materials regarding pipes and/or associated fittings.   

2. Electrical failures : Leaving personal electronic items unattended always entails risks, as there have been cases of faulty devices , overloading of extension cables  and plugs, etc.  

Do : Remove defective equipment from use/service, when damage is identified.   

Don’t:  Use multi-gang extension leads and high current devices onboard.  

3. Flammable cargo : It is not uncommon that fires erupt during loading and unloading of specific cargoes, like coal, as well as frommisdeclaredhazardous cargo in containers, such as self-igniting charcoal, chemicals and batteries.  

Do : Check that all packages are properly marked and labelled; consider using a  Container Packing Checklist .  

Don’t:  Pack damaged packages or stow heavy goods on top of light goods.   

4. Hot work : Many cargoes, including a wide range of bulk cargoes and general cargoes can be ignited by hot work. 

Do : Carefully prepare and isolate the work area before work commences.   

Don’t:  Neglect a written plan for the operation, agreed by everyone involved.   

Regulatory overview  

On 1 July 2002, a comprehensive new set of requirements for fire protection, fire detection and fire extinction onboard ships entered into force as a new revised chapter II-2 of the SOLAS, 1974, as amended, incorporating technological advances in fire detection and extinction as well as lessons learned from fire incidents over the years.  

The main regulatory tool for fire detection and fire extinguishing systems is the IMO’s Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE) which deals with a wide range of technical and operational matters related to systems and equipment on all types of ships, vessels, craft and mobile units covered by IMO instruments.   

Recognizing several recent serious fire accidents on ferries, the latest SSE Sub-Committee (SSE 7), that took place in March 2020, focused on potential draft amendments to SOLAS Convention and associated codes, to enhance fire prevention, detection and extinction on these ship types. It also finalized draft amendments to:  

• Chapter 9 of FSS Code,   
• the  Revised guidelines for the design and approval of fixed water-based fire-fighting systems for ro-ro spaces and special category spaces  ( MSC.1/Circ.1430/Rev.1 ) and  
• the  Guidelines for the maintenance and inspections of fixed CO2 fire-extinguishing systems  ( MSC.1/Circ.1318 );  

It also progressed the revision of the  Guidelines for the approval of fixed dry chemical powder fire-extinguishing systems for the protection of ships carrying liquefied gases in bulk  ( MSC.1/Circ.1315 ).  

5 major ship fires to remember     

• July 2012:  MSC Flaminia  
• March 2018:  Maersk Honam  
• January 2019:  Yantian Express    
• March 2019:  Grande America  
• May 2021:  X-Press Pearl  

Preventing fires onboard: Technology is the key!  

The best way to resolve any challenge is to prevent it. The industry seems to have recognized the severity of the issue, especially on container ships, and to be taking initiatives to tackle it. Currently, an IUMI working group on container ship fire safety is working on a draft of recommendations to the IMO for improved fire detection and firefighting capabilities onboard container ships. Amid an increase of container ship fires in the last years, five partners in the Cargo Integrity Group issued last year the ‘ CTU Code – a quick guide’  to serve as a route-map for the CTU Code and to assist wider understanding of good packing practices.   

Among the bright initiatives that do not seem enough to address the issue, innovation and technology with the use of AI and sophisticated algorithms, as well as blockchain, have unveiled potential to bridge the gap. Currently, the Misdeclaration of Dangerous Goods pilot project by the Maritime Blockchain Labs (MBL) seeks to evaluate how blockchain could support the proper documentation and declaration of dangerous goods. South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries has developed an AI-based fire alarm system that helps detect the outbreak of fires more quickly, while there are firms, like Zim, are trialing the use of AI to identify potential cargo misdeclaration.  What is more, the use of video analytics operators can minimize fire risk; video cameras are widely used in shipboard machinery spaces to detect hazardous conditions. A shipboard camera network combined with video analytics creates a highly efficient means for rapidly detecting oil mist, a precursor to a potential fire or explosion, allowing critical time to take action before disaster occurs.   

Maybe these are only a few examples of the upcoming opportunities that technology can open up for the industry to deal with fire incidents onboard. In any case, as  Standard Club noted,  some human interaction for greater monitoring and maintenance is vital towards fire detection.

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Fire Protection for Cruise Ships

Cruise ships offer passengers the allure of luxurious travel on the high seas, with the promise of unforgettable experiences and breathtaking destinations. However, amidst the glamour and excitement, safety must remain paramount.

One of the most critical aspects of cruise ship safety is fire protection. Given the unique challenges posed by maritime environments, robust fire protection systems are essential to safeguard passengers, crew members, and the vessel itself. In this article, we investigate the various aspects of fire protection for cruise ships, exploring the systems, strategies, and technologies that ensure a secure voyage for everyone on board.

Understanding the risk

Cruise ships, although designed with intricate safety measures, are not immune to fires. The combination of a complex infrastructure, numerous electrical systems, and confined spaces creates an environment where fire risks are heightened. Additionally, the isolation of being far from shore can exacerbate emergency response efforts. It is therefore crucial to understand the potential sources of fire and their implications.

Active fire protection systems

To counter the threats posed by fire, cruise ships employ a range of active fire protection systems. These include fire sprinklers, which are strategically placed throughout the vessel to suppress fires with water, and fire alarms that rapidly alert crew members to the presence of smoke or flames. Modern cruise ships are also equipped with advanced fire suppression systems that use gaseous agents to extinguish fires in enclosed spaces without causing damage to sensitive equipment.

Passive fire protection measures

Passive fire protection measures are equally vital in ensuring cruise ship safety. Fire-resistant materials are used in construction to prevent the spread of flames and contain fires within specific compartments. Fire doors and fire-rated barriers play a crucial role in compartmentalising the ship, limiting the potential for fires to spread. These measures buy valuable time for evacuation and emergency response.

Evacuation protocols and training

Effective evacuation protocols are the backbone of cruise ship safety. Passengers and crew must be well-versed in evacuation procedures, muster station locations, and the proper use of life-saving equipment. Regular drills and training exercises prepare everyone on board for swift and coordinated responses to emergencies, including fires. These practices ensure that panic is minimised and order is maintained during critical moments.

Integration of technology

The maritime industry is rapidly adopting technological innovations to enhance fire protection. Advanced smoke detection systems utilise intelligent algorithms to differentiate between harmless particles and potentially hazardous smoke, reducing false alarms. Thermal imaging cameras enable crew members to detect hotspots and potential ignition sources, even in low visibility conditions. Additionally, real-time monitoring systems allow for remote observation of critical areas, enabling quicker intervention.

Compliance and regulations

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) sets regulations for fire safety on cruise ships. The Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention outlines comprehensive requirements for fire detection, prevention, and response. Cruise ship operators must adhere to these standards to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and the environment. Regular inspections and audits verify compliance and identify areas for improvement.

Future trends in fire protection

As technology continues to advance, the future of fire protection for cruise ships holds exciting possibilities. Firefighting drones equipped with extinguishing agents could offer rapid response capabilities in hard-to-reach areas. Furthermore, predictive analytics and artificial intelligence may enable early identification of potential fire hazards, allowing for proactive measures to prevent incidents.

Safe travels

Fire protection for cruise ships is a complex endeavour that demands a multi-faceted approach. From active suppression systems to passive barriers, from robust evacuation protocols to cutting-edge technology integration, every element plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of those on board. Cruise ship operators must remain dedicated to complying with regulations, adopting innovations, and prioritising the well-being of their passengers and crew. As the maritime industry navigates toward a safer and more secure future, effective fire protection measures will remain a beacon of assurance on the open seas. Get in touch with us today to discover more about fire protection.

Safety with Cooper’s Fire

At Cooper’s Fire , our FireMaster Marine fire curtain was developed and manufactured specifically for marine use and is fitted with the Cooper’s Fire total gravity fail-safe system, featuring variable speed, controlled descent, smoke leakage and side channels as required by fire regulations – compliant to the marine regulations.

Get in touch with us today to discover more about fire protection.

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Danfoss is the preferred supplier of SEM-SAFE ®  low-pressure CO 2  fire protection for many major PCTC owners. Amongst these are Wallenius Wilhelmsen

  Passenger & Cruise vessels

Passenger safety has especially during the recent years become a major focus point for cruise and passenger vessel owners & operators. High-pressure water mist is more than ever in demand as the most effective mean to control fire whether in engine room or accommodation areas. The minimal water consumption combined with high suppression capabilities makes high-pressure water mist an optimal way to ensure safety throughout all hazard areas.

Protected areas

The SEM-SAFE ® pump unit is designed in order to integrate all hazard areas into one pump unit. For engine room protection dispersion of high-pressure water mist is very effective as the sheer volume of the water mist not only displaces oxygen from the fire but also has dramatic cooling effect.

For accommodation areas, the low water consumption prevents the risk of vessel instability but also minimises the potential of costly water damage. Passenger safety and an un-interrupted journey is of utmost importance. Combined with very limited service costs you have a reliable partner with SEM-SAFE ® technology from Danfoss.

“Radiance of the Seas”, a cruise ship, protected with SEM-SAFE ® high-pressure water mist from Danfoss in engine room and accommodation.

Read more about our fire fighting system for other types of vessels here .

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Passenger Cruise Ship Information

To assist cruise ship passengers, the U.S. Department of Transportation is sharing information and resources provided by other Federal agencies

Consumer Assistance

The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) requires operators of passenger vessels carrying 50 or more passengers from a U.S. port to be financially capable of reimbursing their customers if a cruise is cancelled. The FMC also requires proof of ability to pay claims arising out of passenger injuries or death for which the ship operator may be liable. If a cruise is cancelled or if there is an injury during the cruise, the consumer will have to initiate action on his or her own behalf against the cruise line.

The FMC reviews any problems or inquiries that passengers bring to its attention. The FMC's Office of Consumer Affairs and Dispute Resolution Services (CADRS) will contact a cruise line on a passenger's behalf. However, the final resolution of such complaints or inquiries is a matter between the cruise line and the individual. The role of OCC essentially is to help ensure a quick and fair consideration of the issues involved.  Consumer complaints can be reported to the FMC by telephone at 202-523-5807. See FMC’s website for additional information .

Vessel Safety

The U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for cruise ship safety . Although each cruise ship is subject to the vessel inspection laws of the country in which it is registered, as a condition of permitting the vessels to take on passengers at U.S. ports, the Coast Guard requires the ships to meet the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea and other international regulations. Among other things, these regulations concern structural fire protection, firefighting and lifesaving equipment, watercraft integrity and stability, vessel control, navigation safety, crewing and crew competency, safety management and environmental protection. The Coast Guard conducts routine onboard inspections of cruise ships to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Cruise Line Incident Reports

The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010 prescribes security and safety requirements for most cruise ships that embark and disembark in the United States. The Act mandates that reports of criminal activity be reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).   See the cruise line reports .

Criminal Activity Prevention and Response Guide (Security Guide)

Cruise ships are required by 46 USC 3507(c)(1) to have a security guide available for passengers. The security guides provide important information, such as a description of medical and security personnel designated on board to prevent and respond to criminal and medical situations; and law enforcement processes available with respect to criminal activity.

Fire protection for cruise ships, en

Making cruise ships safer The cruise ship industry is rapidly expanding, with more and more people choosing cruises as a preferred way to spend their holiday. Cruise ships with capacity for thousands of passengers resemble floating cities which must function safely and efficiently both in harbour and at sea. Ensuring passenger safety and the operation of the ship in case of a fire is a focus area for cruise ships, owners and operators. Dozens of fires occurred on cruise ships in the last 25 years. This places great demands on efficient fire fighting equipment as well as a well-trained crew. There is a lot of advanced technology operating behind the scenes to ensure everything runs flawlessly. Danfoss is constantly pushing boundaries for innovation in the pursuit of technological developments that make cruise ships safe, sustainable and competitive. The intelligent use of water for fire fighting on cruise ships A safer tomorrow starts with SEM-SAFE® The SEM-SAFE® high-pressure water mist fire fighting system from Danfoss uses micro droplets released through nozzles into protected areas. It comprises a modular pump unit, valves, stainless steel piping and water mist nozzles. SEM-SAFE® high-pressure water mist nozzles will activate immediately upon detecting a fire to ensure the best possible fire protection for passengers and crew on board the ship. Having a fixed high-pressure water mist system installed in the cruise ship will make the fight against fire more efficient with the ultimate goal of saving lives and limiting property damage. High-pressure water mist technology for fire fighting is one of the most effective means of handling fire on a cruise ship, whether it is in an engine room or a passenger cabin. Through continuous research and development, Danfoss has pioneered the use of water for fire fighting and developed the SEM-SAFE® high-pressure water mist system for fire fighting on cruise ships. 2 Danfoss Fire Safety A/S · Cruise ships

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Basics of Fire Prevention On board Ships

The best way to deal with fires on board ships is to prevent them rather than letting them occur. Breaking out of fire in a place where no fire exist is called “ignition”, whereas “flash” is a term used for fire eruption in a new place as a result of flames from an existing fire in a nearby place (the ignition source).

Fires on board ships can be prevented by finding and rectifying leakages of fuel oil, lubricating oil, and exhaust gases.

In a ship’s generator room, the biggest danger of fire is from a leaky high pressure fuel pipe. Oil leaking from such pipe can fall on high temperature exhaust manifold or on indicator cocks, which are sensitive points for catching fire.

In modern marine engines, there is push-type cover concealing the indicator cocks; however in old engines there is no such provision available which makes it quite difficult to provide lagging to indicator cocks.

These days fuel high pressure pipes are sheathed and the leakage finds its way to a small tank at the bottom of the engine known as fuel leak off tank. It is imperative to keep this system in good order by regularly testing the tank alarm – fuel leak off tank high level alarm.

Leakages are mainly caused because of pipes breaking due to vibrations, clamps rubbing against pipes to create holes, pipe connections behind the pressure gauges getting damaged due to ageing (we generally do not look here), leakages from fittings at boiler furnace front and incinerator front etc. These leakages are some of the most common “hot spots” for fire. Moreover, careful and periodical checks are also required on boiler smoke side and incinerator uptake.

Fires can be largely prevented by providing effective laggings to hot surfaces such as generator turbocharger bellows, main engine exhaust uptakes after the turbocharger, various steam pipes and pipes carrying hot oil. Laggings can be done by ship staff but these days specialist contractors are available to carry out this work more aesthetically. Also, whenever lagging is removed, a habit should be cultivated to put it back after the work is finished.

Apart from this, it is also important to check/test fire detectors on regular basis. Some of the main types of detectors used on ships are:

Flame detectors  

Light produced by a flame has a characteristic flicker frequency of about 25Hz. The spectrum in the infra red or ultra violet range can be monitored to give an alarm. Oil fires generally do not give off much smoke and this type of sensor is preferred, especially near fuel handling equipment or boilers to give an early warning.

Heat detectors

Heat detectors are of various types such as rate of rise type, which has bi-metallic type detecting elements – a thick strip and a thin strip. The thin strip is more sensitive to temperature rise than the thicker one.  If there is a sudden rise in temperature, the thin one bends faster than the thicker one, bringing both of them in contact.

During normal temperature rise both strips will deflect about the same amount and thus show no reaction. Normally if rate of rise is less than 10 deg C in half an hour, the detector will not give any alarm. If the rate should rise to 75 degree Celsius, or more, the two strips come in contact, thus triggering the alarm.

Smoke detectors

There are two main types of smoke detectors used

1) Light obscuration type

2) Ionization type Liquid or gas fires may not give off smoke initially but will catch fire spontaneously. Thus smoke detectors are not effective for such fires. These detectors are mostly used in accommodation areas.

Important points to consider for fire prevention on board ships

• In engine room, waste bins used for storing oily rags must have lids (covers). Oily rags should not stay lying around or stuck at unnecessary places. Receptacles with covers should be provided at each floor and on both sides.
• High pressure fuel oil pipes should not be tightened to control a leakage while the engine is running. Also, oil shouldn’t be taken in to turbochargers during operation.
• Short sounding pipes should be kept shut with plugs. Never should they be left in open position for the sake of convenience. Cases have been reported wherein oil has spilled out from these short sounding pipes leading to accidents.
• Loose pet cocks /small cocks on common rail pipes should be checked for.
• Exhaust leakages and steam leakages should be promptly attended.
• Ship’s crew should be careful about galley fires, especially by keeping electrical equipment in good order. Senior officers should keep an eye in the galley when provision is being received because this is the time when galley remains unattended for a long time.
• One of the patent methods of fire prevention is effective and regular fire patrol. There is no method that can beat physical monitoring.
• Fire caused by cigarettes is still one of the most common causes of fire. All care should be taken to dispose cigarettes (using self closing ashtrays) and never should one smoke in bed.
• Fires have also caused during loading and unloading of cargo such as coal. For this reason, ship personnel must always discuss the characteristics of the cargo and preventive methods to be taken during safety meetings and weekly drills.

These are some of the main points one needs to consider for a safe environment on ship. This list might not feature all the methods to prevent fire; however it does provide a brief overview of how things are to be handled on board ships.

Do you have more useful tips to prevent fire on board ships?

You may also like to read – Can Bacteria Cause Fire on Ships?

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12 comments.

Hello out there I do not know if this is the right place to ask this question, but I do not know where to .I am a firefighter for 20 years including shipboard and airport firefighting. I am interesting in becoming a sailor. I would like to know how to get started what school to attend to become a junior officer on a ship? I would greatly appreciated if someone can point me in the right direction. Thanks

There is age limit to join various posts on ship. Please refer your local (country) law regrading eligibility requirement for various positions on ship.

how fire detectors are tested onboard??

I want to know about the acting have to take in case of fire onboard at sea,and at port..thank you

I want to know about the action have to take in case of fire onboard at sea,and at port..thank you

I want to know, what are the effects of heat in boardships?

How the ship’s FFA are kept in readiness at all times in port ?

i want to know about the type of detectors in some important locations in ship such as : cabins, galley, engine rooms, switchboard rooms and ….

@Reza: Smoke and fire detectors are prominently used in these mentioned locations

Could you clarify how many members wear BA? If we have 2 fire parties for deck and ER should both of them wear BA for any drill?!

“Do you have more useful tips to prevent fire on board ships?”

Please check FIPRES!

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Why No Surge Protector On Cruise Ship Rule Is Really Important

By: Author Family Cruise Companion

Posted on Last updated: April 18, 2024

Categories Health & Safety , ONBOARD EXPERIENCE , Travel Gear

At some point in your cruise planning, you have likely heard that surge protectors are not allowed on cruise ships. So, while you will benefit from having a travel power strip in your cabin , you must take care to select one that does not have surge protection. 

Wondering why “no surge protector on cruise ship” is a rule? It’s a matter of shipboard safety. Because of the differences in electricity configuration between land and sea, surge protectors carry an increased fire risk. And, fire on a ship at sea can be particularly perilous !

Keep reading to learn more about why all cruise lines have some version of this rule, and why you should take it seriously.

• Regular surge protectors can disrupt a cruise ship’s electrical balance by blocking only one of the two active currents in the ship’s outlets. Unlike in homes, both wires in a cruise ship’s outlets are “live,” and this partial blockage can cause overheating and fires.
• The US Coast Guard has documented ship-board fires caused by surge protectors which resulted in a warning against using surge protectors on sea vessels.
• Travelers should use non-surge-protected power strips or other alternatives to expand outlet availability in their cabins safely.

Why Surge Protectors Are Banned From Cruise Ships

Here is the short answer: The electrical circuits in a house and a cruise ship are very different.

Surge protectors are not allowed on cruise ships because they increase fire risk. The reason this danger exists is that a normal surge protector only breaks the circuit on the “live” electrical wire, whereas both the “live” and “neutral” wires carry current on a cruise ship.

The Electrical Circuit In A House

This is the high-level basic version of how electricity generally works.

We are all familiar with electrical outlets – the items on the wall or floor that allow electrical devices to connect to the electrical grid and receive power. The two sides of an electrical outlet essentially form parts of a loop, and when you plug a device into the outlet, it completes the loop. 

Of the slots in an outlet, one will be “hot,” and one will be “neutral.” If there is a third slot, it will be for “grounding.” Thus, for either two-prong or three-prong outlets – only one wire will be hot.

How Electricity Flows in a Circuit

In the outlets in your home, power flows from hot to neutral. The device you plug into an outlet completes the circuit between the hot slot and the neutral slot. Electricity flows through the device and powers whatever the intended operation should be. 

A surge protector is designed to interrupt the flow of electricity when it detects an excessive charge that may overwhelm the system. 

The live wire delivers 120V (North America), and the neutral wire completes the circuit. The ground circuit is connected to the main breaker panel. 

Only one prong out of the three carries a live current.

The typical surge protection device made for home use will interrupt only the hot conductor when a surge occurs. 

The Electrical System On A Cruise Ship

A ship’s wiring is different.

Unlike land-based systems, where the neutral wire is typically grounded on a cruise ship, the neutral is isolated from the ship’s hull. This setup enhances safety by preventing ground faults, which could create a direct path for current that might lead to electric shocks or fires.

In this ungrounded system, all conductive paths can potentially carry current; thus, both wires in a circuit can be considered ‘live’ in terms of shock risk.

This means that, unlike typical residential systems where only the ‘hot’ wire would pose a shock hazard, on a cruise ship, contact with any wire while also contacting the ship’s structure (which acts as the ground) could result in an electric shock.

The voltage levels on a cruise ship are typically standardized, similar to those on land (often 120V or 220V), but the key difference is the lack of a ground connection to earth. This setup requires careful monitoring and the use of advanced safety systems, such as ground fault indicators and circuit protection technologies, to ensure that any electrical faults are quickly detected and remedied to maintain safety aboard.

Why No Surge Protector On Cruise Ship: The US Coast Guard 2013 Warning

The notice , which was issued to vessel owners, advised that following the completion of two separate fires on container vessels, they concluded that the immediate cause was surge protector devices that failed. 

A marine casualty investigation of two separate stateroom fires onboard a US-flagged container ship attributed the sources of the fires to the use of surge protective devices plugged into a lighting circuit.

The US Coast Guard concluded that even though the live circuit had tripped, current continued to be supplied through the “neutral” circuit and shorted the device’s ground wire to the vessel’s structure.

The Coast Guard advised that surge protector devices used on cruise ships must be able to break both power conductors. 

Adding More Power Outlets to Your Cruise Cabin Safely

Surge-protected power strips are not allowed on cruise ships because they’re not safe. So, if you need more outlets for charging all your devices, especially when sharing a room, here’s what you can do:

• Use a power strip that doesn’t have surge protection.
• Pack something else that works like a power strip but is safe for cruises, like an outlet extender.

Selecting Non-Surge Power Strips for Cruises

The first option is simple: Look for a travel power strip that lacks surge protection . You can find these at most stores or online. Just make sure the product clearly says it has no surge protection. While some might be labeled as “cruise-approved,” that’s mostly for marketing. The key is the absence of surge protection, not the “cruise-approved” label.

A non-surge power strip will give you enough outlets to charge devices like smartphones and cameras for everyone traveling with you.

Safe Alternatives to Power Strips for Your Cruise

Besides regular power strips, there are other ways to get more power in your cruise cabin. We’re sharing a few alternatives that suit various needs, helping you find what’s right for you. Plus, we’ll mention our top picks for 2024.

Outlet Extenders

These are simple tools that turn one outlet into several, making them perfect for travel. They’re small and light, fitting easily in your luggage. Useful in hotels, airports, and on cruises, they help charge multiple devices like phones, laptops, and cameras from one spot. Many come with USB and USB-C ports, letting you charge directly and skip carrying extra chargers.

USB Hub Stations

A USB hub station lets you charge multiple USB-powered devices at once, without needing a wall outlet. They’re great for phones, tablets, cameras, and some laptops. Look for hubs with several USB ports, including USB-C for the latest gadgets.

Portable Power Banks

High-capacity power banks mean you can charge your devices anytime, anywhere. If you pack extra power banks, you can leave spare ones charging up during the day, then use them to power your phone, tablet, or e-reader overnight. This works well if you have power banks that can charge multiple devices at the same time.

Of course, you can also use power banks while you’re out and about. They’re a traveler’s best friend, ensuring you’re never left with a dead battery.

Battery-Powered or USB-Rechargeable Gadgets

Choosing gadgets that run on batteries or can be charged via USB cuts down your need for outlet space. From fans and nightlights to speakers, these items can be powered up using a USB hub or charger. It’s a smart move to stay fully charged and comfortable, wherever you are.

This post contains affiliate links that could result in a commission to this website (at no additional cost to you). Visit our  Disclosures Page  for more information.

Our Personal Favorite Cruise-Safe Power Choices (2024)

These are the travel devices that we have taken on our most recent cruises.  They have performed well and earned an esteemed place in our travel luggage.  Tip:   Pack least one in a carry-on bag so that you can easily whip it out in an airport or on a plane as needed.

The Trond Flat-Plug Power Strip

• 【Flat Plug Saving Space】With only a 0.33-inch ultra flat plug design, the upgraded flat wall plug is thinner than the regular flat plugs, which can easily fit in tight spots and hide behind the furniture, sitting flush against the wall completely. The wrapped-around cord is much thinner than the standard round power cord to run smoothly under…
• 【Power Strip with 2 USB C】This USB power strip features 3 widely spaced outlets and adds 2 USB C and 1 USB A, which provide power and charging for up to 6 devices. Max. power: 1250W (125V-10A). AC 100-250V. Maximum 3A output for each USB C port and Maximum 2.4A output for USB A port, USB total output 3.4A/17W. Power Delivery charge technology…

We loved this power strip when it first came out. Check out our detailed first-hand review . And it has become our go-to travel power strip.

Our favorite features:

• The truly compact design. It has a recessed groove so that the wrap-around cord can stay flush with the device and not bulk up.
• The widely spaced outlets so that they can be used simultaneously.
• The flat plug that plugs into its own outlet for tidy storage.

The Anker 3 Port USB Fast Charger (Compact Version)

• 3-in-1: Equipped with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port to power three devices simultaneously.
• High-Speed USB-C Charging: Loaded with 67W of power to charge phones, tablets, and laptops. Fast charge a MacBook Pro 13″ (M1) from 0 to 50% in just 46 minutes.
• Compact and Foldable: Slightly smaller than an original 67W charger and equipped with a foldable plug that makes it easy to carry.

This USB hub station from Anker is great for travel. Anker has multiple versions of hub stations, including multiple versions of 67W USB hub stations. This version is a smaller compact size with a foldable plug, and it definitely delivers on the speed.

• Top line fast-charging capabilities
• Comes with its own 5-foot cord
• Foldable plug makes it easy to pack (or slip in a pocket)
• Wide compatibility with both Apple and Samsung devices

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring any type of power strip on a cruise.

No. Not all power strips are suitable for cruise ships. Only bring a power strip that does not have surge protection.

What happens if I accidentally bring a surge protector on a cruise?

If you bring a surge protector onboard, it’s likely that the cruise ship’s security measures during the embarkation process will confiscate it. If not spotted at that time, it may be confiscated later if noticed by your state room attendant. This is to adhere to the ship’s safety protocols and prevent any potential fire hazards.

How can I identify a safe power strip for cruise ship use?

Look for power strips explicitly labeled as “without surge protection,” “no surge protection,” or “cruise-approved.” These products are designed to be compatible with cruise ship electrical systems and are safe to use.

Do all cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival, have the same policies regarding power strips without surge protectors?

While you will commonly find a ban on surge protectors across all major cruise lines for safety reasons, specific policies may vary slightly. Check with your individual cruise line before embarking to confirm their approved types of power strips and electrical devices. You can usually find this information on the cruise line website.

While surge protectors increase safety on land, they can increase the danger of fire on a cruise ship. You can readily find power strips and outlet expanders without the problematic feature, and you should take steps to do so. Stay safe!

Keep up with the latest cruise tips and insights! Follow us on Pinterest:

Last update on 2024-05-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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• Recruitment process

Carnival Cruise Line is the most popular cruise brand in North America and operates a fleet of ships designed to foster exceptionally safe, fun, and memorable vacation experiences at an outstanding value. Our company is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment. Our focus is on continuous improvement and collaboration. Our employees have a responsibility to be accountable for all actions. We consider the environment in all aspects of our business and have a responsibility to put safety and sustainability first. We live and share a positive attitude that is based on fostering an environment of inclusion, trust, a willingness to listen, openness, and integrity. Doing this helps us to achieve our ultimate goal, which is to include FUN in everything we do!

Set sail on a new career with Carnival, and help us bring the FUN to life aboard one of our fantastic vessels! We’re looking for dedicated individuals to join us as Fire Patrol!  

As part of our Amazing Deck, Team Fire Patrol is responsible for all fire fighting equipment, ensuring it is properly  maintained and in working order at all times , performing patrol/watch duties, inspections of fire fighting equipment, and assisting with the training of crew on Fire Safety.   

Joining Carnival as a member of our Fire Patrol is the first step towards a rewarding career onboard our Fun Ships!  

Your Responsibilities and Tasks: What will you be doing? 

• Prepare the fire drill and training and together with the Safety Officer prepare the weekly familiarization and safety meeting for all sign-on crew and crew changes.  
• Together with the Safety Officer, Security Officer and if required a Deck Officer orientate each new crew member in their emergency duties in relation to the Crew Emergency Plan, Station Bill, including the use of fire Screen and watertight doors.  
• Report drills and training conducted to the Safety Officer.  
• Assist in the assignment of and ensure that all fireteam members are properly trained.  
• Identify, prepare and train backup teams to support Fire & Damage Control and Air and Supply.  
• Prepare and maintain training schedules for the above teams.  
• Maintain the portable firefighting equipment on-board the vessel ensuring that all equipment is kept in good working order and available for immediate use.  
• Complete inspections and maintenance including the vessel's tenders and lifeboats.  
• Ensure that all fire-extinguishing appliances are in accordance with SOLAS regulations, Class Authorities, Flag State Administration, Manufacturer’s recommendations, and all repairs, alterations or modifications are done in accordance to the above-mentioned institutions and also shall be fully conversant with the regulations of the authorities in addition to local authorities.  
• Continuously evaluate and prevent potential fire hazards to improve the ship's fire prevention and control standards.  
• Inspect all hot work areas and give permission for the work to commence.  
• Check atmosphere of enclosed spaces for gas and sufficient oxygen level, prior to entry of any work teams into enclosed spaces.   

Minimum Requirements:   What do you bring to the table? 

• High School Diploma, Technical training
• Basic STCW Trainings
• English Language proficiency
• Follow Carnival’s Occupational and Health policies and procedures at all times
• Ability to work well with a team
• Being representative of Carnival Brand

Preferred Requirements:  What would we love to see? 

• Experience onboard cruise ships

Undergo assigned trainings to develop skills & knowledge for the future positions.

Report any equipment malfunction, difficulties & concerns to the supervisor on duty.

Follow additional duties, other than listed in the job description, assigned by management due to the operational needs/shortages/changes.

Ensure beverage stations are full at all times and cleaned daily.

Engage in light conversations with guests always greet them with a smile.

You should have at least 1-2 years of experience in a similar role.

Intermediate level proficiency in English is required.

Minimum guest interaction might be required.

You must pass a Seafarers Medical Fitness Examination.

You focus on continuous improvement and collaboration.

Fire Patrol

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What the New Overtime Rule Means for Workers

One of the basic principles of the American workplace is that a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay. Simply put, every worker’s time has value. A cornerstone of that promise is the  Fair Labor Standards Act ’s (FLSA) requirement that when most workers work more than 40 hours in a week, they get paid more. The  Department of Labor ’s new overtime regulation is restoring and extending this promise for millions more lower-paid salaried workers in the U.S.

Overtime protections have been a critical part of the FLSA since 1938 and were established to protect workers from exploitation and to benefit workers, their families and our communities. Strong overtime protections help build America’s middle class and ensure that workers are not overworked and underpaid.

Some workers are specifically exempt from the FLSA’s minimum wage and overtime protections, including bona fide executive, administrative or professional employees. This exemption, typically referred to as the “EAP” exemption, applies when: 

1. An employee is paid a salary,  

2. The salary is not less than a minimum salary threshold amount, and 

3. The employee primarily performs executive, administrative or professional duties.

While the department increased the minimum salary required for the EAP exemption from overtime pay every 5 to 9 years between 1938 and 1975, long periods between increases to the salary requirement after 1975 have caused an erosion of the real value of the salary threshold, lessening its effectiveness in helping to identify exempt EAP employees.

The department’s new overtime rule was developed based on almost 30 listening sessions across the country and the final rule was issued after reviewing over 33,000 written comments. We heard from a wide variety of members of the public who shared valuable insights to help us develop this Administration’s overtime rule, including from workers who told us: “I would love the opportunity to...be compensated for time worked beyond 40 hours, or alternately be given a raise,” and “I make around $40,000 a year and most week[s] work well over 40 hours (likely in the 45-50 range). This rule change would benefit me greatly and ensure that my time is paid for!” and “Please, I would love to be paid for the extra hours I work!”

The department’s final rule, which will go into effect on July 1, 2024, will increase the standard salary level that helps define and delimit which salaried workers are entitled to overtime pay protections under the FLSA. 

Starting July 1, most salaried workers who earn less than $844 per week will become eligible for overtime pay under the final rule. And on Jan. 1, 2025, most salaried workers who make less than $1,128 per week will become eligible for overtime pay. As these changes occur, job duties will continue to determine overtime exemption status for most salaried employees.

The rule will also increase the total annual compensation requirement for highly compensated employees (who are not entitled to overtime pay under the FLSA if certain requirements are met) from $107,432 per year to $132,964 per year on July 1, 2024, and then set it equal to $151,164 per year on Jan. 1, 2025.

Starting July 1, 2027, these earnings thresholds will be updated every three years so they keep pace with changes in worker salaries, ensuring that employers can adapt more easily because they’ll know when salary updates will happen and how they’ll be calculated.

The final rule will restore and extend the right to overtime pay to many salaried workers, including workers who historically were entitled to overtime pay under the FLSA because of their lower pay or the type of work they performed. 

We urge workers and employers to visit  our website to learn more about the final rule.

Jessica Looman is the administrator for the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division. Follow the Wage and Hour Division on Twitter at  @WHD_DOL  and  LinkedIn .  Editor's note: This blog was edited to correct a typo (changing "administrator" to "administrative.")

• Wage and Hour Division (WHD)
• Fair Labor Standards Act
• overtime rule

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• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

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If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

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Carnival Cruise ship catches fire after possible lightning strike

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. – The Carnival Freedom ship caught fire Saturday near the Bahamas after passengers reported a lightning strike on the boat during a thunderstorm .

Carnival Cruise Line said the crew reported a fire on the port side of the ship's exhaust funnel around 3:15 p.m. Saturday. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, sailing to Freeport after being unable to dock at Princess Cay due to weather conditions. 

"Our onboard team acted quickly to contain and put out the fire," Carnival Cruise Line said. "While we continue to investigate multiple eyewitness reports of a lightning strike, our technical team completed a thorough assessment during the ship’s visit to Freeport on Sunday."

LIGHTNING FATALITIES WERE SECOND LOWEST ON RECORD IN 2023, SAFETY COUNCIL SAYS

Around the time of the fire, radar showed a storm cell over the area and a lot of lightning activity.

Multiple passenger videos show flames and dark smoke billowing from the exhaust funnel as rain continues to pour onto the deck.

Passenger Heath Barnes said the ship was supposed to dock at Princess Cay on Saturday about 9 a.m., but passengers were told that the boat would continue to Freeport due to strong winds . 

During the afternoon, the rain returned, and passengers reported hearing loud thunder and then seeing the smoke. Soon after, guests were told to remain in their cabins.

"Why is our tail on fire?" someone can be heard saying in the video recorded by Barnes. "That's not good, y'all."

On Monday, Carnival Freedom returned to Port Canaveral , where guests disembarked.

The cruise line said damage to the ship is "more than we first thought" and will require immediate repair to stabilize the funnel. Cruises scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on March 25th and March 29th have been canceled. All guests on the canceled trips will receive a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit.

FOX Business reported that the same cruise ship caught on fire in 2022 after being struck by lightning. 

Another video recorded on Saturday by X user @breezebreeze showed the fire on the ship.

"Carnival Freedom on fire AGAIN!!" they wrote on X.

Original article source: Carnival Cruise ship catches fire after possible lightning strike