Over the years, we’ve seen several reports of people falling off cruise ships, often with tragic consequences. Just how big of a risk is it, and what is the cruise industry doing about it?
On most cruise ships, the guard rails are at least 42 inches high. That’s generally safe as long as you don’t do something stupid, like lean over a rail after a few frozen margaritas.
There is some talk about making guard rails a mandatory 54 inches, but that’s still in the future.
The Cruise Vessel Safety and Security Act of 2010 requires that all large, overnight cruise ships must integrate technology to detect when someone goes overboard.
There is a high-tech “man overboard detection system” out there, which uses radar and sensors to notify crew members if someone does fall off a cruise ship.
However, the cruise industry has been slow to integrate this technology.
Why? They say it hasn’t been proven effective in sea conditions.
Until it is, most lines will continue to rely on security cameras, not sensors, to determine what’s happening on board.
For more information about cruising safely, check out:
- What to Do if Your Cruise is Canceled
- The Truth About Crime on Cruise Ships
- What You Need to Know About Cruising During Hurricane Season
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