Travel experts said passengers should be aware of the symbols and codes used onboard
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Cruise holidays have surged in popularity in recent years. This type of holiday was once enjoyed by mostly older travellers, however younger generations are now also showing an increased interest in cruise vacations.
When planning to go on a cruise, most of us would be researching what amenities there is onboard and what destinations we would be visiting.
But travel experts are now warning of the secret codes and symbols passengers need to be aware of before their trip.
Cody Candee, CEO and founder of Bounce.com, has put together a list of cruise codes and symbols passengers may encounter on their next trip and explains what they mean.
Oscar: This code signals that someone has gone overboard. When this happens, the ship will typically stop and launch a coordinated search-and-rescue operation.
This process includes deploying lifeboats and activating onboard safety procedures to locate and recover the individual. If you happen to hear this code while on deck, stay vigilant, and if you spot someone in the water, immediately inform a cruise worker.
Charlie Charlie Charlie: This code is typically used to alert the crew and passengers of severe weather conditions or a security threat.
Whether it’s an approaching storm or a potential risk nearby, it signals increased vigilance and may lead to precautionary measures to ensure the safety of everyone onboard. If you hear this code, you must remain calm and await instructions.
Operation Rising Star: This term is used to indicate a death onboard or a serious medical emergency to other crew members. This code is used in cases when a passenger requires urgent medical care beyond what the ship’s medical facilities can provide.
If you hear this code, there is no need to be alarmed. The cruise staff will have already informed who the deceased was travelling with before making an official announcement to the rest of the passengers.
Cruise ships also have international regulations and standards they must adhere to, including the legal requirement to have a morgue on board in case of fatalities.
Red Party/Bravo: If you hear either of these codes announced, it signals a fire or another hazardous situation onboard. In the event of a fire, trained crew members will act quickly to contain and extinguish the flames, while others work to ensure passenger safety through coordinated evacuation procedures.
Echo, Echo, Echo: Another signal you don’t want to hear on a cruise is this one. Normally repeated three times, “Echo, Echo, Echo” can mean “brace for collision”.
This could indicate an impact with another ship or land, as well as dangers posed by strong winds or drifting while in port.
Wearing a blue wristband or ring: Another lesser-known romantic symbol to look out for on a cruise is wearing a blue ring or wristband.
This can signal that someone is open to meeting new romantic partners. So, if you’re not looking for love on your trip, you might want to reconsider your choice of accessories.
