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After all, it’s always better to be safe than sorry, especially when you’re expecting and away from home. That’s why it’s important that as soon as you know you won’t meet the cruise line’s requirement to sail that you go through the steps to cancel. Cruise lines have cancellation policies that escalate — meaning that the closer you are to the sail date, the less money you’ll receive as a refund if you cancel. Each cruise line will have their own cut-offs, but most only allow you to sail if you are not entering the 24th week of pregnancy before or while on the cruise ship. If you are going to be at this point in your pregnancy any time during the trip, then you won’t be allowed to board.
Look Out for Suitable Activities
If you or the baby are unwell, the captain may decide to enlist an air evacuation. If both parents are U.S. citizens, the baby will automatically be given the parent’s citizenship. However, the baby may also be eligible for dual citizenship, depending on the country. Other major cruise lines, such as Norwegian, Disney, and MSC Cruises have similar policies. Also, depending on your itinerary, not all of the locales that you visit will necessarily have appropriate medical care in case you run into problems.
Can you go on a cruise while pregnant?
"You have increased risk for preeclampsia, high blood pressure, also gestational diabetes." The reason you can't sail during your third trimester of pregnancy is a health-focused one. From when you book to when you disembark, so long as you clearly communicate your desires and preferences, you can count on your cruise line to bend over backward to make sure that they cater to your every pregnant need.
Cruises Are Great at Working Around Special Diets
Well, cruise lines are particularly cautious about the risk of pregnancy complications and the chance of preterm birth. Shore excursions are a fantastic and easy way to explore each of your cruise’s port destinations. In all of our ports of call, you’ll find all kinds of shore excursions in activity levels ranging from mild to strenuous. For pregnant women, there are many safe options to enjoy while in port. Pregnant travelers can generally travel safely with appropriate preparation, and this includes cruise travel. Experts advise avoiding destinations where viruses such as malaria are more frequent.
During the first trimester, you may feel comfortable in normal clothes. But this may not happen after a week of enjoying the delicacies available onboard. Therefore, always wear comfortable clothing like elasticated trousers, floaty dresses, etc. If you are enjoying a healthy pregnancy, a cruise trip can be an ideal vacation option before your little one arrives. However, the majority of cruise liners have some strict pregnancy policies.
Why can't you go on a cruise after 24 weeks pregnant?
Also carry copies of prescriptions, as well as the emergency contact number for your doctor. And, as always, be sure to keep them in your carry-on during the course of your travels, in case you get separated from your checked bags. Pregnant cruisers should avoid participating in risky or adventurous activities like diving, snorkeling, zip-lining, ice-skating, and more.
These drink packages are popular, but obviously they are not for those who are expecting. Still, the rules say that if one person in the cabin buys it (i.e. the husband) then all adults in the same room must purchase it as well. Be sure to join my email list for my best cruise tips and handpicked deals each week. While you’re here, if coming up with a baby name is on your list still, take a look at my list of ocean-themed names for babies for some inspiration. Our Pacific Coastal cruises are an incredible way to explore the stunning sites of the region, from southern California and the Baja California peninsula to northern cities in Washington and British Columbia.
Keep in mind, however, that pregnant women should not, ideally, lift anything heavier than 18 lbs before the 20th week of pregnancy. Women who have reached or exceeded their 24th week of pregnancy, at any time during the cruise, will not be allowed to board or sail with the ship due to limitations of medical care. However, cruise lines take extensive measures to ensure the health and safety of their passengers, including rigorous sanitation protocols and mandatory health screenings before boarding. As long as you practice good hygiene and follow the cruise line’s recommended precautions, the risk of contracting an illness should be low. Expecting travelers should be aware of any transportation issues related to their trip. Soon-to-be moms can usually fly later into pregnancy than cruise ships allow.
Of course, all of the dietary restrictions that apply during pregnancy back on land, also do so at sea. Don't expect the staff to know pregnancy-relevant particulars, like how much mercury is in the fish they're serving -- it's your job to know what's safe and unsafe to eat while you're pregnant. Nobody onboard should be expected to figure out food safety decisions for you. So what are your options if you're prego and longing for a little luxury on the high seas? Unfortunately, if you're in, or close to, your third trimester, you're probably not going to have many options, warned Cruise Compete.
"That's a period where the mom is still feeling well and the risks for complications are a bit lower in terms of preterm labor." If you've done a risk analysis and are fine with travel, the question becomes whether a cruise is a good choice for a babymoon. I've cruised during both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy and can identify both pros and cons of the decision. Just be sure to avoid the hot tubs and sauna, which aren't advisable during pregnancy. You'll also likely want to skip that rock climbing wall or skydiving simulator at this stage in the game.
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A relaxing beach escape or shopping tour may be more accessible for pregnant women. While seasickness should always be considered as a possibility, keep in mind that some women are hyper-sensitive to motion, smells and certain situations. The convenience of food availability, like room service for those late-night cravings, coupled with the ease of planning, makes it an excellent relaxation option before advancing further into pregnancy. This underscores the importance of cruising within a safe timeframe during your pregnancy. If you find yourself in this sort of situation, it’s worth a call to the cruise line. Since you are pregnant, buying an alcoholic drink package shouldn’t be required.
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It’s important to prioritize your health and the health of your baby. Opt for well-cooked meals, avoid raw or undercooked foods, and drink plenty of water. If you have any dietary restrictions or concerns, inform the cruise staff in advance.
It has been estimated that nausea can affect up to 75% of pregnant mothers, which can be exacerbated by seasickness while cruising. "A Guest may be at sea for several days without any immediate hospital and/or specialist back up, and that since the proposed itinerary is not within the U.S., and the availability of specialized shore side facilities can be problematic." The letter must also include the estimated date of delivery (EDD) calculated from both Last Menstrual Period (LMP) and ultrasound (if performed). Please ensure you have your doctor’s letter with you when you embark." Cruise Radio prioritizes well-balanced cruise news coverage and accurate reporting, paired with ship reviews and tips.
This is where having travel insurance can be a lifesaver, offering you protection and more options. In the U.S., fetuses are considered viable at that gestational age. That means if a mother delivers a baby at 24 weeks, it has enough of a chance of survival (due to organ development and medical technology) that doctors will intervene to save it.
Perhaps, you are considering hiding your pregnancy so you can go on a cruise early in your third trimester. TPG does not condone rule-breaking, and as I stated above, the cruise lines have good reasons for banning pregnant women from cruising in their third trimester. Notably, however, many river cruise lines like Avalon, Uniworld, Viking and AmaWaterways don't apply these same restrictions, given that riverboats are always close to land and land-based medical facilities. The decision of whether to cruise is left to the judgment of the woman and her doctor instead. Packing your backpack is crucial if you are planning a cruise trip while pregnant.
