Cruise Approved Power

Surge suppressor power supplies, also known as surge protectors, are often prohibited on cruise ships due to safety concerns. Some of the reasons behind this restriction include:

1. Fire hazard: Surge suppressors can generate heat, and in case of a malfunction or overload, they can potentially cause a fire. Cruise ships have strict fire safety regulations to protect passengers and crew members, as fires at sea can be particularly dangerous and challenging to manage.
2. Electrical compatibility: Cruise ships have unique electrical systems that are designed to handle fluctuations in power and maintain a steady voltage. Using surge suppressors on these systems could cause compatibility issues, potentially leading to malfunctions, overloads, or damage to the ship’s electrical infrastructure.
3. Limited space: Cruise ship cabins are usually compact, and the overuse of electrical devices can cause a strain on the ship’s power supply. By prohibiting surge suppressors, cruise lines aim to discourage passengers from using too many devices simultaneously, reducing the risk of overloading the ship’s electrical system.
4. Circuit protection: Cruise ships already have built-in circuit protection systems that protect against electrical surges and overloads. Therefore, using additional surge protectors is unnecessary and may even interfere with the ship’s safety features.

To ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members on board, it’s essential to adhere to the cruise line’s guidelines and policies, including those related to the use of electrical devices and accessories. Always check the specific cruise line’s rules and regulations before packing your electronic devices and accessories for a cruise vacation.

You may not need a power adapter

Whether you need a power adapter on a cruise ship depends on the type of outlets provided on the ship and the compatibility of your electronic devices’ plugs with those outlets. Cruise ships often use the standard electrical outlets of their country of origin or the region where they primarily operate. Many modern cruise ships even provide several common types of electrical outlet to meet the needs of travelers.

If you are traveling on a cruise ship that uses the same type of electrical outlets as your home country, you may not need a power adapter. However, if the ship has outlets that are different from what you have at home, you will need an appropriate power adapter to plug in and use your electronic devices.

It’s a good idea to research the specific cruise ship you will be traveling on to determine the type of outlets provided on board. Once you have this information, you can decide if you need a power adapter and which type to bring with you.

Keep in mind that power adapters should not have built-in surge protection, as surge protectors are typically prohibited on cruise ships due to safety concerns. If you need a power adapter, opt for a basic one that only converts the plug shape without surge protection or voltage conversion.

Improving your chances

Power adapters that are more likely to be approved for use on cruise ships are those that do not pose safety risks or interfere with the ship’s electrical system. Here are some features to look for in power adapters suitable for cruise ships:

1. Basic power adapters: These adapters simply convert the shape of the plug to match the outlets on the ship without altering voltage or providing surge protection. They are generally accepted on cruise ships as they don’t pose significant safety risks.
2. USB charging hubs: Cruise ships often approve USB charging hubs or multi-port USB chargers for charging multiple devices simultaneously, such as smartphones, tablets, or cameras. These devices typically don’t provide surge protection or convert voltage, making them safer to use on board.
3. Voltage converters (if needed): If you’re traveling on a cruise ship with a different voltage than your home country, you may need a voltage converter to safely use your electronic devices. Make sure to choose a high-quality voltage converter without built-in surge protection, as surge protectors are usually prohibited.
4. No surge protection: As mentioned earlier, surge protectors are generally not allowed on cruise ships due to safety concerns. When selecting a power adapter, ensure it does not have built-in surge protection.
5. Compliance with safety standards: Choose power adapters that are compliant with relevant safety standards and certifications, such as UL, CE, or FCC. These certifications indicate that the adapter has been tested and meets specific safety requirements.

Several power supplies are marketed as cruise approved. Before your cruise, always check the specific guidelines and restrictions provided by the cruise line regarding the use of power adapters and electronic devices on board. This will help you pack the right adapters and avoid any potential issues during your trip.