Cruise passengers have been hit with a significant update regarding the use of phone chargers onboard ships this year, and it is vital information for anyone planning to set sail. One major cruise line, Royal Caribbean, has announced a new policy that effectively bans certain types of chargers, catching many regular travellers by surprise.
In a statement shedding light on the updated regulations, popular cruise YouTuber Jason from Travel Scouts revealed on his channel: “The most surprising new ban is probably Royal Caribbean’s surprising ban on non-surge protected powerbars, power strips and multi-plug outlets.”
Elaborating on the potential impact of the ban, Jason added: “The non-surge protected variety have been allowed for years and even recommended and needed because many times there’s not many outlets available on the older cruise ships.”
The rationale behind the sudden change in policy remains unclear, with Jason commenting, “It’s not really known why this ban came about. It is interesting timing that some of the new ships had some power issues.”
Nevertheless, he provided some reassurance for cruisers loyal to other companies or brands within the same group: “Just so you know, if you’re cruising with other cruise lines, you can still bring the non-surge protected multi-plug outlets,” reports the Express.
But he cautioned Royal Caribbean patrons stating: “Also, if you’re on other Royal Caribbean group brands you can still bring them as well. However, if you’re travelling with Royal Carribean, the only type of multi-plug device you can bring are those that plug in multiple USB ports.”
Royal Caribbean Blog, an information platform for travellers, has issued a warning regarding the use of power strips and extension cords on cruise ships. The blog points out that “Power strips and extension cords are a risk to cruise ships because if they overload, they could cause electrical damage or start a fire.”
Additionally, Royal Caribbean’s own guidelines prohibit such items, stating: “Electrical Extension Cords – including power strips/surge protected strips and multi-plug outlets.”
They do, however, allow certain USB charging devices with appropriate safety markings.
To avoid complications, Jason from the blog recommends passengers bring a USB hub to keep all their devices charged safely during their trip.