Raw Shellfish
Avoiding raw shellfish on a cruise is a smart move, as the risk of foodborne illness is much higher when consuming these delicacies. Shellfish, especially oysters, can harbor bacteria and viruses that might not be killed even in proper refrigeration or storage. You might find raw shellfish offered in various seafood dishes on board, but a safer and equally satisfying option would be opting for cooked versions like grilled shrimp or steamed mussels, which are delicious and much lower in risk.
Raw shellfish might carry bacteria. Opt for cooked seafood like grilled shrimp, which is safer and still delicious.
Unpasteurized Dairy
Unpasteurized dairy products might sound appealing for their rich flavors, but they can be a gamble on a cruise. These products, which include certain cheeses and milk, aren’t treated to kill harmful bacteria. This can lead to digestive troubles or worse, especially if the dairy has been stored improperly. Instead, go for pasteurized options like hard cheeses or yogurt, which offer the same creamy texture without the potential stomach upset.
Unpasteurized dairy carries bacteria risks. Stick with pasteurized products like yogurt or hard cheeses to stay safe and healthy.
Buffet Sushi
Buffet sushi can be hit or miss, and on a cruise, it's often better to pass. The turnover rate for buffet items can be inconsistent, meaning sushi might not always be as fresh as it should be. Eating sushi that’s been sitting out could expose you to foodborne illnesses. Instead, if you’re craving sushi, seek out a specialty restaurant onboard where it’s made to order. It’s worth the extra effort for freshness and peace of mind.
Buffet sushi isn’t always fresh. Visit a specialty restaurant on board for made-to-order sushi that’s safe and satisfying.
Street Food at Port Stops
While exploring port stops, street food might seem like an adventurous choice, but it can come with unexpected consequences. The hygiene standards in various destinations can vary, leading to the risk of digestive issues from food that isn’t prepared to the same standards as on the ship. To indulge safely, consider trying the local cuisine in a reputable restaurant recommended by the cruise line. You’ll enjoy authentic flavors with less risk.
Street food can be risky. Opt for local dishes at recommended restaurants to savor the culture without the worry.
Undercooked Meats
Undercooked meats might seem tempting if you prefer your steak rare, but on a cruise, it’s better to play it safe. Meat that isn’t thoroughly cooked can harbor harmful bacteria, especially in buffet settings where temperature control can be tricky. To enjoy a juicy steak or chicken, request that your meat be cooked to at least medium. Grilled or baked options can offer the same satisfying taste with less risk.
Undercooked meats can be risky. Choose grilled or baked meats, cooked medium or more, for a safer and tasty meal.
Raw Eggs (they're in More Places Than You Might Expect)
Raw eggs can be a hidden hazard in various dishes, from salad dressings to desserts. The risk of salmonella is higher with raw eggs, and on a cruise, where you might not know the source of the ingredients, it’s better to avoid them. Look for dishes that use cooked eggs or egg-free alternatives, like vinaigrette instead of Caesar dressing. For breakfast, scrambled or hard-boiled eggs are safe and satisfying choices.
Raw eggs may harbor salmonella. Opt for cooked eggs or egg-free dishes like scrambled eggs or vinaigrette dressing. These options will ensure you enjoy your meals without any health concerns.
Cold Cuts From Buffets
Cold cuts from buffet spreads might look convenient, but they can carry risks if they’ve been sitting out too long. These meats can be prone to bacterial growth if not kept at the right temperature. Instead, opt for freshly sliced meats or grilled options that are served hot. A warm turkey or chicken sandwich can be just as delicious, without the potential health risks of cold cuts. By choosing freshly prepared meats, you ensure both safety and flavor.
Cold cuts can spoil easily. Choose freshly sliced or grilled meats served hot for a safer and tasty meal.
Creamy Desserts
Creamy desserts like mousse or custard can be a delight, but they often contain raw eggs or unpasteurized dairy, which can be risky on a cruise. These ingredients can lead to digestive issues if not handled properly. Instead, satisfy your sweet tooth with baked desserts like a slice of cake or a fruit tart. These options are less likely to cause trouble and still offer a sweet ending to your meal.
Creamy desserts can carry bacteria. Opt for baked treats like cake or fruit tarts for a safer sweet option. Treating yourself to safer desserts can still satisfy your cravings.
Ice Cream From Machines
Ice cream from self-serve machines might be fun, but these machines aren’t always cleaned as thoroughly as they should be. Bacteria can grow in the crevices, leading to potential stomach upset. For a safer sweet treat, go for pre-packaged ice cream bars or scooped ice cream from a staffed station where hygiene is more controlled. These options are just as enjoyable and offer peace of mind. You can indulge in a safer way without sacrificing taste.
Machine ice cream can harbor bacteria. Choose pre-packaged or scooped ice cream from a staffed station for a safer treat.
Soft Cheeses
Soft cheeses like brie and camembert are delicious but can be risky due to the potential presence of listeria, especially if made from unpasteurized milk. On a cruise, where you might not know the source, it’s safer to avoid these. Instead, enjoy hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda, which are less likely to cause issues. Pair them with fresh fruit for a delightful and safe snack. Opting for hard cheeses can add both flavor and safety to your snack.
Soft cheeses can carry listeria. Choose hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a safer and tasty alternative.
Tap Water
Tap water is something you should be cautious about, especially when at port stops. The water quality can vary greatly from place to place, and drinking it could lead to an upset stomach or worse. On the ship, stick to bottled or purified water to stay hydrated safely. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink, try flavored sparkling water or herbal tea, which are both safe and satisfying options. Staying hydrated wisely can enhance your cruise experience.
Tap water quality varies. Stick to bottled or purified water on board and at ports to stay safe and hydrated.
Salads at Buffets
Salads at buffets can be a healthy choice, but the risk of contamination from unwashed vegetables or improper handling is higher. On a cruise, it’s better to choose salads made to order or those you prepare yourself from fresh, whole ingredients. You’ll still get the crunch and freshness you crave, but with much less risk. If you’re looking for greens, opt for steamed vegetables or a freshly made salad.
Buffet salads can carry bacteria. Choose made-to-order salads or steamed vegetables for a safer and healthy option. Fresh and carefully prepared vegetables can be both tasty and safe.
Sushi From Non-Specialty Restaurants
Sushi from non-specialty restaurants can be a gamble on a cruise. The fish may not be as fresh, and the handling standards might not be as rigorous as in dedicated sushi bars. To avoid the risk of foodborne illness, seek out sushi only from specialty restaurants on board. You’ll enjoy expertly prepared sushi with peace of mind. If you’re craving raw fish, a poke bowl from a reputable source is a great alternative.
Selecting sushi from trusted sources ensures both safety and quality. Non-specialty sushi can be risky. Visit a specialty restaurant or opt for a poke bowl for a safer, fresh seafood experience.
Homemade Sauces
Homemade sauces on a cruise can be risky if they contain raw eggs, like in hollandaise or Caesar dressing. These sauces might be tempting, but they can lead to foodborne illness if not prepared correctly. Instead, opt for sauces that are cooked or avoid them altogether. For a flavorful kick, choose vinaigrettes, tomato-based sauces, or even a squeeze of lemon to enhance your meal without the worry.
Homemade sauces can contain raw eggs. Opt for cooked sauces or vinaigrettes to add flavor safely. Making safer sauce choices can still elevate your dish.
Condiments Left Unrefrigerated
Condiments that are left unrefrigerated, especially in buffet settings, can become breeding grounds for bacteria. Items like mayonnaise or tartar sauce are particularly susceptible. To avoid potential foodborne illness, choose single-serve packets or ask for fresh condiments from the kitchen. For a flavorful alternative, try using mustard, hot sauce, or vinegar, which are less prone to spoilage and still pack a punch. Choosing the right condiments can make a big difference in your cruise dining experience.
Unrefrigerated condiments can spoil. Opt for single-serve packets or safer options like mustard or hot sauce.
Cut Fruits From Buffets
Cut fruits from buffets might look refreshing, but they can pose a risk if they’ve been handled too much or left out for too long. Bacteria can grow quickly on cut surfaces, especially in warm conditions. For a safer option, choose whole fruits that you peel yourself, like bananas or oranges. These fruits are naturally protected and offer a healthy, safe way to enjoy fresh produce on your cruise.
Opting for whole fruits can keep your snacks both fresh and safe. Cut fruits can harbor bacteria. Opt for whole fruits you peel yourself, like oranges, for a safer, fresh snack.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods might be a delight for your taste buds, but they can cause digestive issues, especially on a rocking ship. The heat can be too much for sensitive stomachs, leading to discomfort or worse. If you’re craving a bit of spice, try milder options like grilled chicken with a light pepper seasoning. You’ll still get a kick of flavor without the potential for heartburn or an upset stomach.
Spicy foods can upset your stomach. Selecting milder spices can ensure your meals are enjoyable and easy on your stomach.
Heavy Cream Sauces
Heavy cream sauces can be rich and indulgent, but they’re also a ticket to digestive discomfort, especially if you’re not used to such richness. On a cruise, where you might be more active or indulging more than usual, it’s better to go for lighter sauces like a tomato-based marinara or a simple olive oil drizzle. These alternatives still offer plenty of flavor without weighing you down. Choosing lighter sauces can help you maintain energy and comfort on board.
Heavy cream sauces can cause discomfort. Opt for lighter alternatives like marinara sauce or olive oil for a satisfying meal.
Deep-Fried Foods
Deep-fried foods might be tempting, especially at buffets, but they can be heavy and lead to indigestion, particularly if the ship is swaying. Instead of fried options, look for grilled or baked dishes that are easier on your stomach. A piece of grilled fish or roasted vegetables can be just as satisfying without the greasy aftermath, making your cruise experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Light and healthy meals can enhance your time at sea.
Deep-fried foods can cause indigestion. Choose grilled or baked options for a tasty, lighter meal that’s easier on the stomach.
Canned Tuna
Canned tuna is a convenient option, but it can carry a high level of mercury, which isn’t ideal when you’re on a cruise and might be eating it regularly. Instead, opt for fresh fish like salmon or mackerel, which are rich in omega-3s and safer to consume frequently. Freshly grilled fish from the cruise’s seafood restaurant can provide a delicious, healthier alternative with plenty of flavor and health benefits.
Opting for fresh seafood ensures you get the nutrients you need without the risks. Canned tuna has high mercury levels. Choose fresh fish like salmon for a safer, omega-3-rich meal.
Nuts
Nuts are a healthy snack, but they can be a concern if you have allergies or if they’re cross-contaminated with other foods on a buffet. On a cruise, where you might not control the preparation, it’s safer to opt for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin, which are less likely to cause issues. These seeds offer a similar crunchy texture and are packed with nutrients, making them a great alternative.
Nuts can be allergenic. Opt for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a safe, nutritious snack. Choosing seeds can help avoid allergen risks while still enjoying a healthy snack.
Hard Alcohol in Excess
Hard alcohol can be enjoyable in moderation, but on a cruise, where dehydration and seasickness are already concerns, it’s best to limit your intake. Instead of reaching for that extra cocktail, consider sipping on a refreshing mocktail or a glass of wine, which is easier on your system. Staying hydrated with water or herbal tea can also help you feel your best and enjoy all the activities on board. Limiting alcohol can enhance your overall cruise experience.
Hard alcohol can dehydrate you. Enjoy mocktails or wine in moderation and stay hydrated with water or herbal tea.
Cured Meats
Cured meats like salami or prosciutto are tasty, but they’re high in sodium, which can lead to dehydration—something you don’t want on a cruise. To satisfy your craving for something savory, opt for lean proteins like grilled chicken or turkey slices. These are lower in sodium and provide essential nutrients, keeping you hydrated and energized for all your cruise adventures. Opting for lean proteins can keep your meals both satisfying and healthy.
Cured meats are high in sodium. Opt for grilled chicken or turkey slices for a lower-sodium, protein-rich alternative.
Foods With Artificial Dyes
Foods with artificial dyes might look fun and colorful, but they can cause allergic reactions or digestive issues for some people. On a cruise, where your access to medical care might be limited, it’s better to avoid these. Instead, choose naturally colorful foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, which not only look appealing but also boost your nutrient intake. A colorful salad or a fruit platter can be just as vibrant and much healthier.
Selecting natural colors ensures both visual appeal and safety. Artificial dyes can cause reactions. Choose naturally colorful foods like fruits and veggies for a vibrant, healthy meal.
Pastries
Pastries are a delightful treat, but they can be heavy and difficult to digest, especially on a cruise where you might be eating more than usual. Instead of indulging in a croissant or danish, opt for whole-grain toast or a piece of fruit for breakfast. These alternatives are lighter and provide the energy you need to enjoy your day without the sugar crash that often follows a pastry binge.
Choosing lighter breakfast options can keep you energized for all your cruise activities. Pastries can be hard to digest. Choose whole-grain toast or fruit for a lighter, energy-boosting breakfast.
Soft Drinks
Soft drinks might be refreshing, but their high sugar content can cause bloating and discomfort, particularly on a cruise where you’re already prone to feeling queasy. To stay refreshed, try sparkling water with a splash of juice or a herbal iced tea. These options hydrate you without the added sugar and can help you feel light and energized as you enjoy your time on board. Opting for healthier drinks can keep you feeling good throughout your trip.
Soft drinks can cause bloating. Opt for sparkling water or herbal iced tea for a refreshing, healthier drink.
Energy Drinks
Energy drinks promise a quick boost, but their high caffeine and sugar content can lead to dehydration and jitteriness—two things you definitely don’t want on a cruise. Instead, fuel up with natural energy sources like nuts, seeds, or a piece of fruit. These snacks provide a steady release of energy without the crash, helping you stay active and alert throughout your cruise without the side effects.
Energy drinks can dehydrate you. Choose nuts, seeds, or fruit for natural energy without the crash. Natural energy sources can keep you feeling great all day long.
Exotic Meats
Exotic meats might seem like an exciting culinary adventure, but on a cruise, they can be harder to digest, especially if you’re not used to them. Instead of trying that rare delicacy, opt for familiar proteins like chicken or fish, which are less likely to upset your stomach. Grilled or roasted options provide a safe and satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling uneasy during your vacation. Familiar proteins ensure you can fully enjoy your meals without any discomfort.
Exotic meats can be tough to digest. Stick with familiar proteins like chicken or fish for a safer, satisfying meal.
Spicy Sauces
Spicy sauces can add a fiery kick to your meal, but they can also irritate your stomach, particularly on a cruise where your diet and environment are different from usual. If you’re craving some heat, go for a milder option like a slightly spicy salsa or a peppery seasoning on your dish. You’ll still get a flavor boost without the potential for discomfort, allowing you to enjoy your meals worry-free. Milder seasonings can keep your meals flavorful and comfortable.
Spicy sauces can upset your stomach. Opt for milder spices or peppery seasonings for flavor without the discomfort.
Tropical Fruits You’re Unfamiliar With
Tropical fruits can be tempting on a cruise, especially when you’re in a new location, but if you’re unfamiliar with them, they can sometimes cause allergic reactions or digestive issues. To play it safe, stick with fruits you know and love, like bananas or oranges. These fruits are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that will keep you feeling your best as you enjoy your cruise. Familiar fruits can ensure both satisfaction and safety.
Unfamiliar tropical fruits can cause reactions. Stick with familiar fruits like bananas or oranges for a safe, healthy snack.
Shellfish From Buffets
Shellfish from buffets can be a risky choice, as the freshness can be questionable. If shellfish isn’t stored or handled correctly, it can lead to foodborne illness. Instead, enjoy shellfish at a specialty seafood restaurant on board where it’s more likely to be fresh and prepared properly. Grilled shrimp or steamed mussels can offer the taste you’re craving without the potential health risks. Specialty restaurants ensure that your seafood is both fresh and safe.
Buffet shellfish can be unsafe. Choose shellfish from specialty restaurants on board for a fresh, safe seafood experience.
Cold Pasta Salads
Cold pasta salads at buffets might seem like a light and tasty option, but they can be a breeding ground for bacteria if left out too long. To enjoy pasta safely, opt for a hot pasta dish made to order. A warm plate of spaghetti or penne with marinara sauce offers the same satisfaction without the risk, making it a safer and more enjoyable choice during your cruise. Hot, freshly prepared pasta can keep your meals both delicious and safe.
Cold pasta salads can spoil easily. Opt for hot pasta dishes made to order for a safer, satisfying meal.
Room Temperature Dairy
Room temperature dairy, like cream or milk left out on a buffet, can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria. To avoid potential digestive issues, stick with dairy products that are kept cold or are served fresh. If you’re looking for a creamy addition to your meal, consider yogurt or a freshly made smoothie, which offer the same creamy texture without the risk of spoilage. Cold and freshly prepared dairy options ensure a tasty and safe meal.
Room temperature dairy can spoil quickly. Choose cold or freshly prepared dairy options like yogurt for safety.
Caviar
Caviar might be a luxury item, but it’s also highly perishable and can spoil easily if not kept at the correct temperature. On a cruise, where you might not know how long it’s been out, it’s better to skip it. Instead, indulge in fresh seafood options like oysters or smoked salmon, which are safer and still offer a taste of luxury without the risk of spoilage or illness. Fresh seafood alternatives can still provide a luxurious dining experience.
Caviar can spoil easily. Opt for fresh seafood like oysters or smoked salmon for a luxurious, safer option.
Undercooked Poultry
Undercooked poultry is a big no-no, especially on a cruise where you want to avoid any risk of foodborne illness. Poultry that isn’t cooked thoroughly can harbor harmful bacteria. To enjoy chicken or turkey safely, request it cooked to a safe internal temperature, or choose dishes that are roasted or grilled. These options provide the same delicious taste without the health risks, ensuring a safer dining experience on your cruise. Properly cooked poultry ensures a worry-free and tasty meal.
Undercooked poultry can be dangerous. Choose roasted or grilled options for a safe, delicious meal on board.