A cruise expert has identified one common household item that is banned on almost all cruise ships, and provided details of an alternative that is allowed in your cabin
Before you start packing your bags for that much-anticipated cruise holiday, take note of some insider advice from a seasoned cruise expert, particularly about one everyday item you might be planning to bring along. “You might not expect this, but this is one item that almost every cruise line around the world does not allow you to take on ships,” Tim shared in a TikTok video.
“That item is an extension cord [for electrical devices].” As per Tim’s advice, it seems most cruise lines have a ban on all kinds of extension cords, due to safety concerns. But why exactly are they so frowned upon?
“They can be a fire risk – plugging in lots of things into the outlets is obviously more risky than just a single one,” he clarified. “And they say the surge-protected ones can also interfere with other electronics on the ship.”
For those needing to charge multiple devices, Tim suggests using a USB multi-plug or hub instead, which normally get the green light from cruise operators. “They are very happy with those,” he assured viewers regarding ships’ policies.
Wrapping up his advice, Tim underscored the point that, although your extension cord might not be confiscated, it’s best to steer clear of using them on board.
“I took one, but didn’t use real plugs in it, just used the USB ports that it also had,” explained one TikTok user in response.
Another person mentioned that in certain situations, using an extension is allowed, adding: “I have a CPAP so take a non-surge protected extension lead, which is permitted if you let them know in advance.”
A third individual confirmed this, advising: “P&O allow extension cords if one is required for a medical device such as a CPAP machine. They cannot be surge protected and you need to make sure the transformer with your machine is compatible with the electrical supply.”
Meanwhile, a fourth TikTok user revealed: “I’ve taken one on both Princess and Celebrity with no issues.”
This led Tim to comment: “It is allowed on Princess – one of the few lines that do allow it. Technically banned in Celebrity.”
When it comes to the leading cruise lines, Royal Caribbean’s website clearly states: “Guests cannot bring electrical extension cords, including power boards or surge protected power boards.”
P&O Cruises informs passengers: “Extension leads are not permitted on board unless they’re for use with essential medical equipment (e.g. CPAP and nebuliser machines). These will be checked.”
Celebrity Cruises’ ‘What not to pack’ list explicitly mentions: “Electrical Extension Cords.”
While Princess Cruises declares on their site: “The use of extension cords, power banks and surge protectors are restricted.”
