Doctor Explains Why You Should Avoid Cruises Right Now

Most of us picture cruises as an all-inclusive escape—endless buffets, ocean views, and perhaps some themed entertainment. But one TikTok-savvy doctor warns of a hidden danger you should know about before packing your bags.

Dr. Rubin, a pediatrician who shares health tips online, has outlined why he’s waving a red flag on cruise vacations—and it’s not because of rough seas or marauding pirates. He starts with a simple premise: a key safety net has been removed.

“I’m not going to step foot on a cruise ship anytime soon,” he tells his viewers. “And you should think twice before you book one.”

The culprit? Cuts to the CDC’s vessel sanitation program, the agency responsible for inspecting cruise ships for health hazards at least twice a year. Those inspections aren’t funded by taxpayers; instead, the cruise lines cover the cost, so eliminating them doesn’t save public money. It merely removes a critical layer of protection.

Dr. Rubin supports his warning by sharing a clip from a recent news report: cruise-ship inspectors have been laid off “amid a bad year for outbreaks.” Without those trained eyes checking kitchens, dining areas, and passenger cabins, outbreaks can spread faster and wider than ever.

He explains, “They trace outbreaks to help reduce the chances of more people getting sick. When you lose that, you lose the front line of defense.”

The doctor warns that a cruise might not live up to the hype.

He then presents a statistic that will make even the most seasoned cruiser pause: so far this year, cruise ships have reported twelve Norovirus outbreaks, up from eight the previous year. Norovirus, often referred to as the “winter vomiting bug,” strikes with brutal symptoms: sudden vomiting, diarrhea, fevers, body aches, and intense headaches.

Because it spreads through touch and shared surfaces, a confined ship environment is an ideal breeding ground for germs. Imagine being stuck in a small cabin with the virus circulating in the hallways.

You’d have to quarantine in your room while crew members barricade common areas and scrub every surface. That’s precisely what happened on the Coral Princess earlier this season: sixty-nine passengers and thirteen crew members ended up isolated while the ship underwent deep cleaning. According to CDC records, that same vessel had battled Norovirus just a few months prior.

Getty Images

For Dr. Rubin, the situation makes no sense from a financial standpoint, either. “The cruise ships pay for these health inspections, so it’s not like we’re actually saving any money from the taxpayers’ perspective. This makes absolutely no sense,” he says, clearly frustrated.

Cutting a service that passengers effectively pre-pay for to boost cruise-line profits? He calls it a step in the wrong direction for public health.

Dr. Joseph Mercola, an osteopathic physician, points out that while cruises can offer a variety of experiences, the health risks often outweigh the benefits during times of heightened infectious disease transmission.

He suggests that families consider taking vacations that allow for social distancing, like camping or road trips, where they can enjoy nature while minimizing exposure to crowded environments.

Moreover, Mercola emphasizes the need for travelers to remain updated on health protocols and recommendations, which can significantly enhance safety while traveling.

He said it’s just a sanitation problem.

Viewers have flooded his comments to support him. One summed it up bluntly: “Cruises are giant floating petri dishes. Ain’t worth it.”

Another added, “Norovirus on land is bad enough. In a tiny cabin on a crowded ship? No, thanks.” A third confessed, “You could not PAY ME to go on a cruise right now.”

Getty Images

Dozens now say they’d never book a cruise again.

Getty Images

Health Risks on Cruises

Dr. Michael Klaper, a physician and nutrition expert, emphasizes that cruises can be breeding grounds for infectious diseases due to close quarters and shared facilities.

His insights into the spread of illnesses like norovirus highlight the importance of hygiene and careful food handling practices. Klaper advises potential cruise-goers to consider alternatives, such as land-based vacations, where they can better control their environment.

He recommends checking the CDC's travel health notices to stay informed about outbreaks before planning any cruise.

If you’re considering a cruise for your next holiday, Dr. Rubin’s message is clear: do your homework. Ask which CDC inspections have taken place and when.

Find out how the ship handles outbreaks, especially regarding onboard medical support and cleaning protocols. If those answers don’t inspire confidence, consider alternative travel plans.

At the end of the day, a cruise might still offer stunning sunsets and exotic ports of call. But without regular, independent health checks, the risk of contracting a nasty bug and spending your vacation locked behind a cabin door looms larger than ever. Please take a moment to think it through: sometimes, the best itinerary is the one you don’t book.

Moving Forward: Actionable Steps

In summary, the concerns raised by healthcare professionals about cruising during uncertain health climates are well-founded. As Dr. Klaper and Dr. Mercola illustrate, the risks associated with infectious diseases in confined spaces are significant. For those still eager to travel, exploring alternatives like road trips or nature retreats can provide safer and equally enjoyable experiences.

Additionally, maintaining awareness of health guidelines and adhering to best practices in hygiene can help mitigate risks. Prioritizing health over convenience will ensure that travel remains enjoyable and safe.