Feature

While enjoying your day in The Bahamas, remember to be aware of your surroundings. 

Would you ever spend the night on a haunted ship? I did—and survived—but I’m not rushing to do it again.

If you're in Long Beach, California, it's hard to miss the Queen Mary ship across the water from downtown. The historic ocean liner, which was originally launched in 1936, has been permanently docked in the city since transatlantic operations ceased in 1967. Now, the vessel operates as a floating hotel.

When cruise passengers arrive at the terminal, they trust porters to safely transport their larger pieces of luggage to the ship. Though bags won't be immediately available outside the cabin, guests expect to find them within hours of embarking. The last thing anyone wants to hear is that the cruise line has misplaced their suitcases. 

Cruise ships operate on a tight schedule and have strict all-aboard times for guests. If you delay your return, you may have to sprint down the pier in a desperate attempt to catch your ship before it sets sail. Known as "pier runners," the frantic dash serves as a reminder of the consequences of spending too long in port; however, it's also a spectacle for those onboard. 

Though it's not uncommon for cruise passengers to spend time on their private balconies, it's rare to see guests drag bedding outside. However, TikTok user @naomijaneadams did just that on her recent sailing to Antarctica with Albatros Expeditions. 

Mega cruise ships like Icon of the Seas and massive aircraft carriers are engineering marvels. These impressive vessels can carry thousands of people and feature an array of amenities that rival small towns. However, cruise ships and aircraft carriers serve different purposes. 

While both are bigger than standard pontoon boats, the operational focus and facilities are tailored to their specific functions. Instead of multi-story dining rooms and expansive buffets, for example, aircraft carriers have traditional mess halls. 

Did you know there are certain items allowed in your checked baggage for air travel that are prohibited on cruise ships? While you may not encounter issues in the airport, cruise lines have a longer list of banned items due to safety and environmental concerns. 

Nobody wants to be embarrassingly pulled aside during the physical check-in process because they're trying to smuggle something onboard—even worse, something they didn't know was prohibited! 

Within the past year, I've set sail on 10 cruises, venturing to the Mexican Riveria, Western Mediterranean, Bahamas, Caribbean, and Alaska. When I first began working as a full-time cruise writer, I'd try and save money whenever possible. Now, I've learned a few experiences are always worth the extra cost, namely specialty dining.

While vacation is a time to kick back and relax, those who disregard certain rules could be banned from cruising again. 

Not only does following the rules ensure you have the opportunity to create more memories at sea, but it also helps foster a positive onboard environment. You don't want to be the subject of multiple news articles for a foolish decision, either, though it would be a memorable topic to bring up at your holiday gatherings! 

From theft to engaging in dangerous behavior, here are 9 reasons guests have been banned from cruising.