Cruise ship pools are a popular feature among passengers who want to soak up the sun, splash around or simply relax during their trip. Yet, even though swimming pools seem like a happy escape at sea, they can quickly become dangerous in rough weather. That’s why cruise ship pools are emptied during rough weather as a safety precaution.
One of the primary reasons why cruise ship pools are emptied in rough weather is the potential for sloshing. Sloshing occurs when large waves cause water to move back and forth in pools, creating strong, sometimes violent waves that can knock swimmers off balance. In extreme cases, sloshing water can even spill out of the pool, leading to injuries and damage.
Furthermore, spacious cruise ships are designed with tenders or watercraft that act as lifeboats for passengers during emergencies. As waves increase, they pose a risk to any tenders or watercraft located on the ship’s deck or tethered to it. Therefore, many cruise ships require that all pools must be emptied during rough weather, so as to avoid damage to or potential loss of the tenders and other lifeboats.
There are also other potential dangers associated with-cruise ship pools filled with water in rough weather. Passengers who refuse to vacate the pool, while others attempt to empty it, could be at risk in the event of an emergency. When a ship is rocking and rolling, a pool that remains full of water can be incredibly dangerous as motion sickness can leave swimmers unable to hold their footing and could cause disorientation or hazardous behavior.
Cruise ship pools are emptied during rough weather as a safety precaution to protect passengers, prevent damage to the ship’s tenders and watercraft, and reduce the risk of any falls, slips, and injuries. While it may be disappointing for passengers to forego a quick swim or dip, the safety of all those on board must always be the priority at all times, especially in unpredictable waters.