What to Avoid Eating on a Cruise
Planning on going on a cruise soon? While many travelers get excited about the delicious food onboard, there might be some foods or dishes you should avoid if you have a sensitive stomach and want to stay as healthy as possible while sailing. We’ve put together a list of foods to avoid eating on a cruise to help you stay healthy while traveling.
1. Communal Condiments
While you might be tempted to dip your fries in that ketchup, be aware that communal condiments are on the list of foods to avoid eating on a cruise. Condiments should be kept refrigerated to be best preserved, and the condiments on a cruise are often left out for long periods of time.
Plus, they’re touched by many other passengers, some of whom might not be as prone to hand washing as you!
2. Tap Water at Port Destinations
While you’ll typically be provided with water during your cruising journey, avoid the local water while ashore. In destinations such as Mexico, for example, you should not drink the tap water under any circumstances. Even in Europe you might have a bad reaction to the different bacteria found in the tap water. When possible, purchase bottled water if you need a drink.
3. Shellfish
One of the main foods to avoid eating on a cruise is shellfish. It's one of the worst foods for possible food poisoning, both off and on board. Both raw and undercooked shellfish can be harmful. Likewise, shellfish shouldn’t be left out on a table or improperly stored due to the risk of bacteria growth, so shellfish from the buffet is not always the best idea.
4. Soft-Serve Ice Cream
Like the communal condiment station, the soft-serve ice cream station can be a hub of bacteria since so many people touch it. While having ice cream can be a delicious addition to your vacation, it might be better to check out another dessert at the dessert station. Go for something that doesn't require refrigeration, and isn't handled by so many people.
5. Fried and Processed Foods
While fried and processed foods don't necessarily have to be avoided on a cruise, they can leave you feeling sluggish and generally unwell since they’re not the healthiest choice. To avoid any issues, opt for fresh, grilled food whenever possible, as well as fruits and veggies.
6. Scrambled Eggs from the Buffet
Yes, eggs are a healthy food, but scrambled eggs on the buffet tend to be powdered and sit out under a heat lamp for a long period of time. If you have the opportunity, it’s better to ask for an omelet or scrambled eggs made to order by the kitchen staff for a fresher and healthier option.
How to Stay Healthy on Board
While going on a cruise can be an opportunity to indulge in some fun treats, there are ways to have your favorite cruise foods while still keeping your health in check. Here’s how to stay healthy on board:
- Get your steps in. Cruise ships are often huge, which means you can do thousands of steps just walking from one part of the ship to another. Plus, on days when you’re on dry land, exploring your destination on foot is ideal for staying healthy.
- Stay hydrated. Cruise ship air conditioning and tropical sun can dehydrate you quickly. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and electrolyte drinks.
- Wash your hands often. Since cruises are enclosed environments with lots of people in the same space, infections can travel fast. Wash your hands regularly and avoid buffet stations that see a lot of traffic.
- Balance indulgence with lighter meals. Nobody is expecting you to eat perfectly on your vacation, it’s a good idea to balance treats with healthier meals. While occasional desserts and fried foods are fun, remember to enjoy plenty of fresh fruit, veggies and fiber-rich foods.
Cruises are a foodie’s dream, but staying healthy is still extremely important. Make note of what to avoid eating on a cruise. Many cruises offer the ability to order your own food in a sit-down restaurant or have breakfast items made-to-order, which tends to be better and safer than food from the buffet.