Cruise ship passengers have been issued a significant warning regarding charging their phones and other devices onboard. This comes as one cruise liner has imposed a ban on certain types of phone chargers.
Jason, a YouTuber from the Travel Scouts, has noted that these chargers have often been essential for many cruisers due to the lack of charging capacity on some older ships. However, Royal Caribbean has now decided that only surge-protected chargers will be permitted onboard.
In a video on his channel, Jason revealed: “The most surprising new ban is probably Royal Caribbean’s surprising ban on non-surge protected powerbars, power strips and multi-plug outlets.
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“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. It’s not really known why this ban came about. It is interesting timing that some of the new ships had some power issues.”
Jason emphasised that not all cruise liners ban the non-surge protected chargers. He added: “Just so you know, if you’re cruising with other cruise lines, you can still bring the non-surge protected multi-plug outlets.
Extension cord
“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.”
According to the Royal Caribbean Blog, a popular information site for cruise-goers, power adaptors are frequently used by travellers on older ships but pose a significant safety risk. The blog warns: “Power strips and extension cords are a risk to cruise ships because if they overload, they could cause electrical damage or start a fire.”
The cruise line itself has listed electrical extension cords, including power strips/surge protected strips and multi-plug outlets, on its list of prohibited items. It clarifies: “Electrical Extension Cords – including power strips/surge protected strips and multi-plug outlets.”
We do allow consumer type power conversion device USB charger (multi-plug blocks on which the outputs are for USB cables). Note: Devices must be stamped with US/Europe recognised Conformance Marking to demonstrate compliance with Electrical Safety standards. “.
Travel expert Jason suggests that travellers should consider investing in a USB hub before setting sail, allowing multiple devices to be plugged in and charged simultaneously.