
Have you ever been on a cruise and overheard staff mentioning something like "Bright Star" or "30-30"? These aren’t just random phrases – they’re part of a secret code system used by crew members to communicate discreetly.
Why Do Cruise Ships Use Secret Codes?
From medical emergencies to security threats, cruise ship workers rely on coded announcements to handle situations without causing panic among passengers. These terms help maintain order while keeping guests blissfully unaware of potential issues.
The Most Common Cruise Ship Codes
- "Bright Star" – A medical emergency, often requiring urgent attention.
- "30-30" – A warning about vomit (yes, it happens more than you’d think).
- "Code Alpha" – A general emergency, which could range from a fire to a security threat.
- "Operation Rising Star" – A crew member has gone overboard.
- "PVI" (Passenger Violently Ill) – A guest is causing a disturbance, often due to excessive drinking.
How Passengers Can Decode the System
While most codes are kept under wraps, frequent cruisers have picked up on some of the lingo. If you hear an announcement that sounds unusually vague or repetitive, it might be a coded message.
Next time you’re on a cruise, listen closely – you might just crack the crew’s secret language!