Costa Concordia’s Incident Demonstrates Passengers Need To Be Prepared Prior To Sailing
The Costa Concordia lays on its side and that should alert passengers to be prepared.
Traveling by cruise ships are safe, make no mistake about it.
But after the Costa Concordia hit a rock, rolled over and killed half a dozen people in January, there’s some questions that passengers should be asking before any ship sets sail. This is especially important for those who have never been on a cruise or are taking a different cruise ship or new cruise line.
They are:
1.) Where are the Lifeboats and Life Vests? In light of the fact that the Costa Condordia had an emergency before its drills could be giving to passengers it’s likely the rule will change to make this mandatory before a ship begins its journey. And that’s a step in the right direction. But such laws move more slowly than the ships going into port, so upon boarding the vessel, find out the location of the lifeboats and inquire about where to find a life vest.
2.) Exactly Where IS Everything On This Giant Floating City? Get to know the ship right after boarding. After putting the bags down in the room, take a walk about the decks of the ship to familiarize yourself with it a bit. Learn where the exits are, note how long the hallways are and how to get out of them, walk port to starboard and bow to stern on the upper deck(s) so you know where everything is located. This will take a couple of hours but treat it as a tour; you should know the ship anyway.
3.) Where is the Crew That Can Help Families And Elderly People With Their Potential Special Assistance? It’s tougher to move as a family and elderly people may have difficulty moving at all (Sightseeing Sam’s father, while otherwise in excellent health, has knee problems and has trouble with stairs and walking great distances without pausing). Those passengers should identify themselves to crew members, alerting them they may need assistance in case of emergency (or perhaps otherwise, such as someone in a wheelchair). Be sure more than one crew members knows you and your potential needs.
4.) Does The Crew Seem Capable And Well Trained? Upon boarding, if the crew is not helpful, doesn’t know where certain things are on the ship (say they just wave in the direction of your cabin) or seems disorganized, then proceed immediately to questions one and two. If they seem completely in control and well organized, then you’re probably in capable hands. Look in the eyes of the crew; in the case of an incident, the crew could well be your lifeline.
5.) Ask Other Passengers: Have You Been On This Ship Before For Other Sailings? Use the knowledge of your fellow passengers for information. Ask around to find out if anybody has been on this particular ship before or that particular cruise line and if so, inquire about their experiences. Chances are, it’s positive and you’ll set sail with a positive attitude. On the other hand, if you encounter people who had a bad experience (in rare cases, the cruise ship company may be giving them a “make-up” journey), then proceed with caution. On the other hand, if you’re the one with that kind of knowledge, share it with your fellow passengers.
With the incredible safety record of cruise liners, it’s easy to become complacent. But it’s best to be on your toes.