While a cruise holiday often promises ultimate relaxation with everything taken care of, a stark warning has been issued for expectant mothers. Ignoring a specific industry rule could leave pregnant passengers stranded far from home.
The Hidden Risk for Expectant Mothers at Sea
Mark Barton, a cruise expert with Avanti Travel Insurance, has highlighted a critical safety concern. The core issue is the lack of specialist medical staff on board cruise ships. Vessels do not typically carry obstetricians or gynaecologists, and the medical facilities available are not equipped to handle pregnancy complications or deliver babies.
This becomes a significant problem when you consider a ship's location. Unlike aeroplanes, which are usually only hours from a hospital, cruise ships can be days away from the nearest port. This vast distance makes it incredibly difficult for a pregnant woman needing urgent, specialist medical advice or care.
The 24-Week Rule You Must Know
This medical reality has led to a strict, albeit little-known, rule across the cruise industry. Most cruise lines prohibit women who are 24 weeks pregnant or more from boarding. This policy is clearly stated by major operators.
For instance, Carnival Cruise Lines specifies: 'Due to limitations of medical care, both on board and in various ports of call, you may only cruise if you have not entered the 24th week of pregnancy at any time during the voyage.'
Similarly, P&O Cruises states: 'Pregnant guests can travel with us, however, we cannot accept guests who will be more than 23 weeks pregnant (i.e. 23 weeks + one day or more) at any time during the cruise.'
Essential Steps Before You Book Your Cruise
Despite these restrictions, many cruise lines welcome pregnant guests who are earlier in their term and offer a variety of safe activities, from spa treatments to shows. The key is thorough preparation.
Mark Barton urges pregnant women to take two vital steps before confirming any cruise holiday. First, consult with your doctor to discuss the potential risks. Second, carefully review your travel insurance policy.
He advised: 'In most cases, cruise travel insurance offers protection if you need to cancel your trip, cut your holiday short, or face a medical emergency and require repatriation. However, it won't cover you if you travel against medical advice or fail to declare any pre-existing medical conditions.'
Ultimately, the most important action is to check the specific pregnancy policy of your chosen cruise line before you book, and inform your cruise agent if you know you are pregnant at the time of booking.
