Cruise ships have a set of official rules that passengers are expected to follow, but there are also unspoken rules that most people adhere to for a smooth sailing experience.
While some passengers may ignore the rules, such as smoking on balconies or wearing shorts at dinner in the main dining room, there are others that focus on common courtesy, like giving way to mobility scooter users at elevators.
Recently, Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald addressed a passenger’s concern about elevator etiquette for mobility scooter users on the Carnival Horizon. The passenger suggested having a crew member manning one elevator per section exclusively for scooter users, but Heald explained the practical challenges of implementing such a plan.
Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, has introduced new technology on the Icon of the Seas that changes how its elevators operate. Passengers input their desired floor on a keypad, and the system assigns them a specific elevator to wait for, reducing crowding and allowing for smoother boarding.
While Royal Caribbean has not confirmed whether this technology will be implemented on the Utopia of the Seas, set to sail this summer, it highlights the industry’s efforts to address common courtesy issues onboard.
Overall, both cruise lines are working towards enhancing the passenger experience by addressing unspoken rules and ensuring a more efficient and considerate environment for all travelers aboard.
