Cruise passengers travelling with young children may be unaware of a strict rule that bans children who are not potty trained from using the main swimming pools. The regulation, enforced by nearly all major cruise lines, is designed to prevent hygiene incidents that could force pool closures.
Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises are among the lines that prohibit children in nappies, including swim nappies, from entering pools, whirlpools, and water play areas. MSC states that 'for hygienic reasons, babies in nappies are not allowed in the water', while Royal Caribbean says children in diapers or pull-ups are not permitted in pools or the H2O Zone.
The rule exists because if a child has an accident in the water, the entire pool must be drained, cleaned, and refilled for health and safety reasons. This process is time-consuming and disrupts other passengers, often leading to overcrowding in other areas of the ship.
However, some cruise lines offer alternatives. Disney Cruise Line allows children in swim nappies to use designated water play areas, though not hot tubs, spas, or waterslides. Royal Caribbean's Baby Splash areas are reserved for children in diapers. Norwegian Cruise Line also has a clear policy on diaper use.
Passengers are advised to check their specific cruise line's guidelines before travelling to avoid disappointment at the pool.
