Caribbean Cruise

Well I made it! Or I should say, ‘WE’ made it back from our Caribbean cruise.

The last two weeks were spent in New Orleans and then on the Norwegian Spirit for a 7 day cruise to the Caribbean. I am no stranger to cruising. Regina, my S.O. and myself have been on four cruises now. The first three were on Carnival and this last as I just stated was aboard NCL.

The main reason I am writing this is to let you know about the sanitary practices experienced on this trip.

I had heard about ‘NORWALK like’ or ‘NOROVIRUS’ in the past, but had not been too concerned. These are nasty little buggies that cause a person to have flu like symptoms as well as stomach cramping, vomiting and diarrhea (gastroenteritis) that lasts for 24-60 hours. Not a way to spend a vacation.

Here is a little Q&A the CDC has put together: NOROVIRUS Q&A

I am aware that cruise ships are notorious for these nasties because the passengers are a captive audience like rats in a lab experiment. But this is where I was really impressed by what NCL was doing to combat this problem.

At the time of embarkation, we were asked in writing if we had been sick within the last few days and had to sign a paper of admission or not. I assume to make sure if you had the sickness you would be quarantined.

Then the next surprise was at each buffet or restaurant. As you got in line or entered the area, there were hand sanitizing stations that dispensed an alcohol liquid to kill the viruses. The plates were handed to passengers by a gloved crew member and all of the buffet food was served by crew behind the buffet steam table. The crew was serious about this as passengers would attempt to acquire food of their own only to be hastily chastised and served.

If you are unlucky enough to still contract the virus, you will be confined to your stateroom under quarantine until you have been better for at least 24 hours and released by the ships doctor.
I have to applaud Norwegian Cruise Line for taking a proactive approach to the safety of their passengers. It should be instituted by all cruise lines.

It is ironic that on the last day of our cruise, we were allowed to serve ourselves. I guess at that point, they weren’t worried if we got sick on the way home. Too funny!

So, in closing, to remain relatively safe:

• Wash your hands frequently.
• Always wash hands after using restroom facilities.
• Use a paper towel to open restroom door upon leaving.
• Cough into your arm, not your hand.
• Take some sort of hand sanitizer with you. It may just save your trip!

Bon Voyage!