Sharing is caring!
At the risk of being a bit controversial, there are some rude things cruise passengers should never do! In fact, there are some inappropriate behaviors that other cruise cruise passengers are calling out.
While these are things that you might see at hotels, resorts or at your local grocery, it does seem like some things seem to happen on cruise ships. Keep in mind that most people are actually pretty nice and considerate, but there are always some cruisers that may be annoying or even cross a line.
I recently asked Life Well Cruised community members for the rudest things they’ve seen their fellow guests do. From things not to do in cruise cabins to buffets & elevators and pool deck, these are things cruisers should stop doing!
17 Rude Behaviors to Avoid on a Cruise
1. Chair Hogs
Reserving chairs on the pool deck or in theaters for extended periods, especially for large groups, is a common annoyance. Being a chair hog bothers other cruisers and disrupts the overall cruise experience, making it less enjoyable for everyone.
As cruisers, it’s important to remember that we all have to share the pool deck. So, saving chairs for extended periods can ruin other cruise passengers’ days as they may not be able to find a chair for themselves.
2. Blowing Nose in Cloth Napkin
Blowing your nose in a cloth napkin at the table is unsanitary and impolite. Although it’s rare, some cruise passengers do this, which can spread illness and even get the crew members sick.
If you need to blow your nose, use a tissue or step away from the dining table get some tissues if needed.
3. Dress Code “Violations”
While cruise dress codes are less formal than years ago, there are some guidelines and suggestions. Following the dress code of your own cruise line of course.
However, beyond this, many cruise passengers wish people would svoid wearing pyjamas, robes, cover-ups, or swimwear to restaurants, especially in the evenings.
Additionally, while wearing a baseball cap might be fine for some, it’s often seen as inappropriate in more formal dining settings.
Although contemporary cruise lines may be more lenient with the dress code rules, it’s still important to respect the dress code in the main dining room. Typically, premium cruise lines have a stricter dress code and will ask cruise passengers to change if it’s not being followed.
4. Children in Adult-Only Areas
Bringing children into designated adult-only spaces, such as adult-only pool areas or sun decks, can disrupt the intended atmosphere. Respecting these boundaries is important to ensure everyone can enjoy their space.
In recent cruise news, there are stories of some families bringing their kids to the adult only pool. The crew usually says something, but it puts everyone in an awkward position.
Onboard cruise ships, there are many areas for children and families to hang out. These include the kids club, main pool area, and sports court.
5. Disposing Cups and Dishes in Hallways and Elevator Areas
Leaving plates and cups in elevators, hallways, or stairways creates hazards and makes the cruise ship look dirty. Getting rid of your items the right way ensures that the cruise ship is clean and safe.
The exception to this are room service trays, is your cruise ship has a policy to leave them outside your cabin. In these cases, there’s often a crew member assigned to sweep the hall regularly.
6. Elevator Etiquette
When you’re on a cruise ship (or elsewhere), there’s a basic elevator etiquette that all cruise passengers should follow.
For instance, letting people exit the elevator before entering is a rule that makes the elevators more efficient. Furthermore, giving priority to those with wheelchairs, walkers, or scooters who have been waiting is important.
Something I’ve seen people do on cruise ships is overcrowding the elevators. Entering an elevator when it’s full, it’s probably best to just wait for the next one.
7. Passing Gas in Public Areas
Cruise passengers tell tales of other guests passing gas in elevators, which has to be the worst. Beyond this, other cruisers share that they have been in the buffet line with someone consistently passing “wind” and it was unpleasant, to say the least.
8. Bad Buffet Etiquette
The cruise ship buffet is awesome, but there are some potential annoyances. The line cutters annoy a lot of other guests. Although lines can get long during peak hours, it’s important to be considerate of the other cruise passengers.
Eating, or grazing, while in line is also best avoided. However, people taking food items with their hands, rather than utensils is probably worse, but sometimes seen.
Others share than they wish people would avoid occupying tables in the buffet for extended periods of time during peak or busy hours.
9. Slamming Doors
Avoid slamming cabin doors, as this can disturb your stateroom neighbors. Whether it’s early morning, afternoon, or late at night, people can be sleeping or resting in their cabin.
10. Being Loud in the Hallway
People should avoid yelling, running and singing loudly in the passenger cabin hallways, especially at night. This is likely not intentional, but families may have children who are sleeping or even adults can be disturbed.
11. Fighting
Although it rarely happens, people getting into fights is something you’ll sometimes see in the cruise news.
It’s important to remember that physical fights should never happen on a cruise ship. It’s better to de-escalate a situation, as a physical fight can harm you and other cruise passengers as well. In fact, getting involved in a fight can get you kicked off a cruise.
12. Playing Music on a Speaker in a Public Area
Playing loud music from personal speakers in public areas or on your balcony can disturb others. Most cruise lines have rules against playing music from a speaker in public areas.
If you enjoy listening to your own music, it’s a good idea to wear headphones to keep your entertainment to yourself.
13. Smoking on Balconies
Cruise lines have strict smoking policies to reduce fire risk and keep passengers safe. Smoking in unauthorized smoking areas can be dangerous and disturb other cruise passengers.
Furthermore, smoking on your cruise ship balcony is prohibited on most cruise lines. If you want to smoke, it’s best to head to an authorized smoking area.
14. Watching Videos Without Earphones in Public Spaces
Whether you’re watching a movie, TV show, or YouTube video, it’s important to wear headphones in public. The audio can disturb other cruise passengers and ruin the relaxing cruise environment.
As someone who likes to watch TV shows on my phone when relaxing by the pool, I always bring my AirPods to avoid disturbing the other cruise passengers.
15. Posting Unflattering Photos of Others
Avoid taking photos of other passengers and sharing them on social media without their consent, especially if they are unflattering. Not only is this extremely rude, but it can also make the cruise passenger feel uncomfortable.
In recent years, this intrusive and disrespectful behavior has become more common in cruise groups on Facebook. It might seem like innocent fun, but it can actually be hurtful to others.
16. Stealing Door Decorations
It’s common for cruise passengers to decorate their doors. Using magnets, signs, and other decorations is a fun way to personalize your cruise cabin door.However, certain cruise passengers have recounted stories of cabin decorations being stolen. Taking someone’s door decorations is rude and disrespectful.Respecting other passengers property and maintaining a fun and friendly atmosphere is important.
17. Leaving Shows Early
If you must leave a show early, try to sit near the back to minimize disruption. Leaving a show early (when sitting in the front) can disrupt other cruise passengers and the performers.
Performers have told us they notice when people leave, which can affect their performance. Cruise ship shows only last an hour, so even if you’re watching a performance that isn’t your cup of tea, staying till the end is respectful.
Video: 17 Rude Cruise Passenger Behaviors EXPOSED
Related & Popular Posts:
Please PIN to Your Favorite Pinterest Board to Save for Later
Final Thoughts on Rude Behaviors to Avoid on a Cruise
By avoiding these rude behaviors, you can contribute to a pleasant and respectful atmosphere on your cruise, guaranteeing a better cruise experience for everyone on board.
What rude behaviors have you seen on a cruise? Please let me know your experiences in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ethan
If you enjoy this post please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please feel free to share on Facebook or Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!
Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising with his family since he was four years old and has been on more than 30 cruises. As a frequent traveler, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like from a young person’s perspective. Ethan also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com.