Advice for Canadian travellers: Winter cruises

Photo by Rattan Mall

OVER the winter season, many Canadians choose to embark on a winter cruise. Prior to your departure, careful planning and research on how you can best ensure your personal safety is important, says Global Affairs Canada which would like to remind cruise travellers that planning ahead is the key to a successful trip.

Canadian travellers can minimize their risks by booking through a cruise line or a reputable, insured tour company.

Canadians are also encouraged to sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad service so that they can be contacted in case of an emergency while abroad or a personal emergency at home. Further, before embarking on a cruise, all travellers should consult Global Affairs Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories for their point of embarkation and for any ports of call.

It is also important to remember the following:

  • Carry a valid Canadian passport and protect it at all times.
  • Purchase adequate travel insurance that includes coverage for accidental injury, hospitalization abroad and medical evacuation at sea.
  • Visit an appropriate medical clinic six weeks before your departure for recommendations on immunizations and preventive medications to counter seasickness and other common illnesses.
  • Bring an extra supply of medications and keep medications in their original packaging.
  • Avoid becoming the target of an assault or robbery by being aware of your surroundings at all times and staying in public areas when interacting with other passengers and ship staff.
  • Never leave your food or drinks unattended.
  • Ensure cabin safety by keeping the door and balcony properly locked at all times.
  • During shore excursions, follow local laws and customs. If you break the law, you will be subject to the judicial system of the host country.`

Quick Facts

  • Travel.gc.ca has up-to-date Travel Advice and Advisories for more than 230 destinations worldwide—a key reference in travel planning for Canadians and the travel industry.
  • Every year, Global Affairs Canada helps thousands of Canadians who run into problems while they are travelling, working, studying and living in other countries.
  • In 2017, our consular officers abroad opened cases for:
    • more than 10,000 passports reported lost or stolen abroad; and
    • 916 cases requiring medical assistance for Canadians abroad, of which close to one third of these cases occurred in popular sun destinations.
  • Canadians requiring emergency assistance abroad can contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa anytime and from anywhere by calling collect 1 613 996 8885 or by sending a message to sos@international.gc.ca.