It’s happened. Royal Caribbean has quietly slipped something onto their ever-growing list of banned items, and it’s got many cruisers talking. As of today, extension cords and multi-plug outlets have joined the ranks of prohibited items on Royal Caribbean ships. And it’s not just the power strips with surge protectors anymore—which have been banned on most cruise lines for a while—now even your regular old extension cords aren’t making the cut.
For those who travel with a small electronics store’s worth of gadgets, this news is particularly troubling. Between phones, tablets, laptops, e-readers, and maybe even a CPAP machine, the need for extra outlets on a cruise ship, especially on older ships, has become a common issue. So, what’s behind this latest change, and could we see other cruise lines following suit?
Why are Power Strips Banned?
First, let’s get into why power strips and surge protectors have been on the no-go list for a while now. The main issue is safety. Power strips with surge protectors can pose a significant fire hazard on ships. The electrical wiring on board isn’t the same as what we’re used to at home. Cruise ships rely on their own power grids, and overloading these systems can lead to overheating, short circuits, and potential fires.
Surge protectors are designed to guard your devices against power surges, which makes sense in a home environment where power fluctuations happen. But on a cruise ship, the risk of power surges is quite low, so surge protectors don’t offer any real benefit. Instead, they can cause problems. The circuitry in surge protectors can interfere with the ship’s electrical system, creating a hazard that isn’t worth the risk.
Royal Caribbean, like most cruise lines, has taken a hard line on power strips for this reason, banning them entirely. However, regular extension cords were still allowed up until now, as long as they didn’t have surge protection.
Why Surge Protectors Are Banned on Cruise Ships and What You Can Use Instead
Extension Cords: The New Victim of the Ban Hammer
So, what changed? Why has Royal Caribbean decided to ban even non-surge protected extension cords and multi-plug outlets? It seems that safety concerns are again the primary factor. Even without surge protectors, extension cords can still cause problems when used improperly or excessively. Cruise cabins are not known for their abundant outlets, especially on older ships where the power grid was designed long before we all started carrying around six different devices that need charging.
By plugging in too many devices using extension cords or multi-plug outlets, passengers can create an overload situation that risks damaging the ship’s electrical systems—or worse, starting a fire. Additionally, extension cords themselves can become tripping hazards in tight cruise ship cabins where space is already at a premium. It’s easy to see how a cord stretched across the floor from a bedside lamp to your phone charger could result in someone taking a spill.
While it makes sense from a safety perspective, the ban on extension cords is sure to leave many cruisers frustrated. Older Royal Caribbean ships, like the Voyager and Radiance class, aren’t exactly known for having USB ports or ample outlets. Some cabins may have only one or two accessible outlets, which makes it hard for families or couples who travel with multiple devices to keep everything charged up.
What’s a Gadget-Loving Cruiser to Do?
So, how can you keep your devices powered up without breaking the rules? Luckily, there are a few options.
First, make sure to bring a USB charging hub. These small devices typically allow you to charge several items at once using a single outlet, without the need for extra cords or plugs. Just make sure it’s a basic USB hub with no surge protection or you’ll be in trouble with security.
Second, if you’re someone who travels with a CPAP machine or other medical equipment, Royal Caribbean (and most cruise lines) will provide an extension cord for medical use upon request. You’ll want to notify the cruise line in advance so they can have it ready for you in your cabin.
Finally, if you know you’ll be sailing on an older ship, it might be worth investing in a portable power bank. These handy gadgets can keep your devices charged throughout the day without relying on an outlet in your cabin.
Other Weird Items That Are Banned
The ban on extension cords might be the latest surprise, but it’s far from the only strange thing you can’t bring on board. Here are a few other items you might not expect to see on Royal Caribbean’s list of prohibited items:
- Irons and Clothes Steamers: While it might be tempting to bring your own iron to keep your cruise outfits looking crisp, these items are banned due to fire hazards. Most cruise ships provide an ironing service, so you won’t be stuck with wrinkled clothes.
- Candles: Candles might seem like a nice way to set a relaxing mood in your cabin, but they’re strictly forbidden due to—you guessed it—fire risks. Stick to battery-operated alternatives if you want some ambiance.
- Hoverboards: Remember when hoverboards were the hot new gadget? Well, even though their popularity has faded, they’re still banned on most cruise lines due to safety concerns. With their history of exploding batteries, it’s not surprising they don’t make the cut.
- Drones: While drones are allowed on board some ships, you won’t be able to use them during the cruise, and they must be safely stowed away in your luggage while on board. The concern here is privacy and safety, especially with so many people gathered in a confined space.
- Hammocks: Bringing a hammock to relax on your balcony might sound like a dream, but unfortunately, they’re not allowed. This is likely due to safety concerns and the potential for damage to the ship’s structures.
- Musical Instruments: Planning to serenade your fellow passengers with some tunes? Better think again. Most musical instruments are banned from being played in public areas, though you might be able to use them in your cabin if you’re feeling inspired (and if your neighbors don’t mind).
Will Other Cruise Lines Follow Suit?
Whenever one major cruise line makes a change like this, the big question is always whether others will follow. In this case, it seems likely that Royal Caribbean’s decision to ban extension cords will be mirrored by other cruise lines in the future.
In fact, some of Royal’s sister brands are already on the same page. Celebrity Cruises lists extension cords as prohibited on their ships, so they’re ahead of the game. Other major cruise lines like Carnival and Norwegian might not be far behind, especially since fire safety is a universal concern.
Cruisers who rely on extension cords will need to adapt to these new rules, but the good news is that the industry is gradually moving towards providing more accessible power solutions. Newer ships tend to have USB ports built into bedside lamps, and some of the most modern cabins are designed with tech-savvy travelers in mind, offering multiple outlets and charging stations.
For now, though, if you’re planning a cruise on Royal Caribbean, it’s time to double-check your packing list. Extension cords and multi-plug outlets are officially out, and you don’t want to end up having your gear confiscated at security. While this change might be frustrating for some, it’s ultimately about keeping everyone safe. So pack wisely, bring a USB hub, and maybe start looking into portable power banks for your next voyage.