lifeboats on cruise ships

Do Cruise Ships Have Enough Lifeboats for Everyone?

If you are thinking of going on a cruise, one of your safety concerns might be what happens in the event of an emergency and whether there are enough lifeboats for all passengers to disembark safely.

You might even have seen the Titanic when many people died because there weren’t enough lifeboats and wondered if things have changed for the much bigger cruise ships of today.

Cruise ships have enough lifeboat capacity for 75% of the maximum capacity of people on board, crew, and passengers.   Liferafts are provided for the remaining 25%, although often not required as a cruise ship is never even near it’s maximum capacity.

Modern cruise ships are bigger than ever, especially mega cruise ships such as Wonder of the Seas or Symphony of the Seas, as examples of some of the largest.

Nowadays, many cruise ships can carry 5000 to 6000 passengers on board and an additional 1000 or more crew members.

It’s not surprising you may wonder if there are enough lifeboats on board to save everyone.

Although it’s unlikely a cruise ship sinking or even capsizing, there are rare occasions when lifeboats may be needed.

At the very least, in times of rough seas and large waves pounding the ship, it can be comforting to know there’s enough lifeboat capacity for everyone.

What is The Requirement for Lifeboats on a Cruise Ship?

The  International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea ( SOLAS ) stipulates that a ship must have enough lifeboats to accommodate 75% of the people on board.   

SOLAS was started after the events of the sinking of the Titanic when there weren’t enough lifeboats for everyone.

Regulations require each side of cruise ships have enough lifeboats to accommodate 37.5% of the total number of persons on board (passengers and crew), 75% in total. Inflatable or rigid liferafts must accommodate the remaining 25% of passengers and crew. (SOLAS, Section II, Regulation 21, 1.1) Travellersunited.org ( Source )

This means that for a ship with 3000 passengers and crew, at least 2250 must be able to fit in the available lifeboats. For a cruise ship carrying 6000 passengers and crew, at least 4500 must be able to fit into the available lifeboats.

In practice, most cruise ships have more than the minimum number of lifeboats required. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder has passenger and crew capacities of 6,988 passengers and 2,300 crew for a total of 9288.

This is slightly more than the 75% requirement set by the IMO, and that’s assuming absolute maximum passenger numbers. 

Often the ship will have far fewer passengers than the absolute maximum, but it still leaves a few hundred people potentially without space on the lifeboats.

This is where liferafts come into play to make up over and above the 25% extra required.

Although it’s worth highlighting that a cruise ship is rarely anywhere near absolute capacity, many staterooms can sleep up to 4 people if you include the extra bed space but often only hold 2 people.

How Many Lifeboats Are Needed on a Cruise Ship?

Ideally, a cruise ship needs a higher lifeboat capacity than the total number of passengers and crew on the ship.

However, as we have seen, the IMO only requires a cruise ship to have enough lifeboats to accommodate 75% of its total capacity.

For every 1000 people on the ship, a cruise ship would need 75%  of that number in lifeboat capacity, or 750 people.  

If the lifeboats hold a maximum of 150 passengers , then the following number of lifeboats would be required:

• 1000 ship capacity = 750 lifeboat capacity = 5 lifeboats
• 2000 ship capacity  = 1500 lifeboat capacity = 10 lifeboats
• 3000 ship capacity 2250 = lifeboat capacity = 15 lifeboats
• 4000 ship capacity 3000 = lifeboat capacity = 20 lifeboats

For larger ships such as some of the Royal Caribbean fleet who have the larger 370 capacity lifeboats you would need the following:

• 6000 ship capacity = 4500 lifeboat capacity = 12 lifeboats
• 7000 ship capacity = 5250 lifeboat capacity = 14 lifeboats

The largest lifeboats, like those which were unfortunately destroyed on Costa Smeralda when it collided with a crane , can hold up to 440 passengers.

Some passengers may need assistance getting into the lifeboats, and crew members will need to stay behind to help with the evacuation process, including the cruise ship captain, who should be the last person to leave the ship and one of the reasons for the high cruise ship captains annual salary.

Additionally, some lifeboats may be damaged or lost during an incident at sea so it’s always important to have more safety boat capacity than required.

If there are not enough lifeboats for everyone on board, then inflatable or rigid liferafts must accommodate the remaining 25% of passengers and crew.

Liferafts must be located on the ship’s exterior, easily accessible, and clearly marked.

They must also be capable of being launched quickly and easily, even in bad weather conditions.

When needed, the liferafts are released from their compartments and connected to shutes are lowered into the sea where they are released and begin inflating.  

Passengers and crew members then have to defend down via the shutes and make their way to a seating position on the liferaft.

Liferafts come in different sizes holding from 25 to 200 people.  The larger ones hold as many as a standard-size lifeboat.

One of the largest is Viking Life Saving Equipment which holds up to 200. 

The 3D video below demonstrates how they would be used in an emergency.

Are There Enough Lifeboats for Everyone in the Event of an Emergency

It’s all well and good having enough lifeboats when setting sail on your cruise vacation, but what about in the event of an emergency?

For example, if the ship is is on fire or is it listing to one side so much, the lifeboats can’t be launched.

There is a SOLAS requirement that lifeboats must be able to be launched if listed as much as 20º.   It would be rare for a ship to list more than that, but it has been known in the case of Costa Concordia.

How Many Lifeboats On Carnival Cruise Ships?

All lifeboats can be seen on each side of the Carnival ships. 

Depending on which ship you are cruising on, you could simply look for a photo and count them. 

Although you can rest assured:

We also ensure that the number of lifejackets, lifeboats, and life rafts on each Carnival ship exceeds the number required, based on the ship’s maximum capacity for passengers and crew. Carnival Safety and Security ( source )

How Many People Can Fit In a Cruise Ship Lifeboat?

For many years, the maximum capacity of a cruise ship lifeboat was typically 150 people.  This will be the case for many cruise ship lifeboats today. However, many of the worlds largest cruise ships now hold lifeboats with a capacity of 370 to 440 people.

1.1.2.1 No lifeboat shall be approved to accommodate more than 150 persons. (LSA 4.4.2.1) rules.dvv.com Source

However, more recently, with ever-increasing cruise ship sizes and required lifeboat capacity, cruise lines such as Royal Caribbeans obtained a waiver to have larger lifeboats like those of Wonder of the Seas, which has 18 lifeboats 9 on each side.

This might not seem like enough for a cruise ship that can hold over 6000 passengers and crew.

However, each lifeboat has a capacity of not 150 but 370 people for a total of 6660.  These mega-lifeboats, as they are known, are found on many of the Royal Caribbean largest cruise ships, including the first to have them, Oasis of the Seas.

These significantly larger lifeboats not only carry more people but also take up significantly less length when all together on the ship’s side and keep them on one deck.

Although it’s still below the passenger (6988) and crew (2300)  maximum capacity of 9288.  Hence why, rafts are needed.

Here’s an interesting time-lapse video of a 150-capacity lifeboat being loaded and released with 150 people (crew members) as part of a periodic capacity test.

Where Are The Lifeboats On a Cruise Ship?

The lifeboats on a cruise ship are typically located on the outside decks , often on both sides of the ship.

They are easy to spot and are usually brightly colored orange and yellow.

The lifeboats might be partially or completely hidden behind panels or glass on some ships.

How Big Are the  Lifeboats On Cruise Ships?

The largest lifeboat, the Palfinger  MPC 49 is 15.25m by 5.5m  and holds 440 persons.

The Royal Caribbean CRW55 mega lifeboats are  16.7m by 5.6m and hold 370 persons.

The more common 150-capacity lifeboats are usually 8.1m to 9.6m in length.

Different types of Lifeboats on a Cruise Ship? 

There are 3 types of lifeboats to be found on cruise ships.

• Open lifeboats
• Closed lifeboats
• Freefall lifeboats

However, the most common type of lifeboat you’ll find on a large ocean cruise ship is the closed lifeboat.

These are designed to protect passengers from the rough seas and weather.

How Are Lifeboats Launched from a Cruise Ship

This passenger was lucky enough to get a great view of a lifeboat being launched into the sea from the Viking Ocean cruise ship.

The lifeboat is extended outwards from the ship and lowered down.

In this instance, the lifeboat was being used as a tender boat.

Tender Boats

Lifeboats aren’t just used in emergencies, they sometimes double up as tender boats to take passengers to shore from the cruise ship when in port.

What’s On a Lifeboat?

Lifeboats carry the essentials, including:

• Water and food rations for each person to last a week
• First Aid Kits
• Seasickness Pills
• Searchlights
• Signaling Devices

Do Cruise Ships Have LifeBoat Drills?

All cruise ship passengers must participate in a lifeboat drill before the cruise sets sail.

During this mandatory safety drill, you will be shown to your assigned lifeboat station, often called a muster station.

You won’t necessarily get into the lifeboat,  but you will learn how to put on a lifejacket and be familiarized with the drill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all cruise ships have lifeboats.

Yes.  All cruise ships have lifeboats.  They are required by law to have enough lifeboats for at least 75% of all passengers and crew on board. Liferafts are provided to make up for the rest.

Why do Ships Not have Enough Lifeboats?

Lifeboats take up space and add weight to cruise ships. 

Inflatable liferafts make up the difference needed to get all passengers and crew off the ship in an emergency.   These are much lighter and take up a lot less space.

The more space a cruise ship can free up the more money it can make by providing more cabins, entertainment or other sources of extra revenue on the ship.

Are there Toilets on Lifeboats?

Generally, lifeboats do not have toilets.  They are designed to be as efficient as possible when it comes to saving lives, and the toilet space could take up the space for 1 or more passengers.

Saying that the larger Royal Caribbean 370 capacity lifeboats do have a water closet.

What Kind of Lifeboats do Cruise Ships Have?

Modern-day cruise ships often have fully enclosed lifeboats made from fiberglass that protect against the elements.

Some lifeboats are even equipped with air conditioning and heat to keep passengers comfortable during their time on board.

How Many Lifeboats on Mega Cruise Ships?

There will be enough lifeboats for 75% of the mega cruise ships’ maximum capacity for crew and passengers.  For mega-cruise ships like Royal Caribbeans Wonder of Seas and Symphony of the Seas, the lifeboats are more than twice the size of the standard cruise ship lifeboats, with a capacity of 370 compared to 150, so not as many are needed. 

All cruise ships must have enough lifeboat capacity for at least 75% of the maximum capacity for total people on board, including crew and passengers.

Often cruises ships are nowhere near full capacity even if every cabin is booked.

Liferafts cover the remaining 25% of maximum capacity.

If you are anywhere concerned, you can take comfort from the fact that of the hundred cruise ships sailing oceans and rivers every day, lifeboats are very rarely required.

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Cruise ship lifeboats and rafts: How your ship is prepared for an emergency

Do cruise ships have enough lifeboats for everyone?

It's a question that comes to many cruisers' minds, especially if they're hesitant about sailing across oceans and seas, far from land.

You can rest assured that cruise lines have many safety systems in place in the rare instance that a major emergency occurs at sea. Among these systems are, of course, the brightly colored lifeboats that you'll see lining the sides of your ship. Not only are they there to carry passengers to safety if the ship needs to be abandoned, but they're also used as tender boats in a port where the ship can't dock at a pier.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

You may have other questions about lifeboats, either from curiosity or safety concerns. How reliable are the small vessels? What supplies are on board? Do they have restrooms?

Here are the top things to know about cruise ship lifeboats, so you'll feel safe and confident when heading out on your next voyage.

What does a lifeboat look like?

Lifeboats are orange or yellow watercraft that you'll find lining the sides of the ship. You'll find two main types of lifeboats on many cruise ships: enclosed lifeboats and lifeboat tenders. The majority of cruise ship lifeboats are enclosed lifeboats, which are tough and built with superior watertight integrity, with the ability to easily right themselves if tossed around by rough waves.

Lifeboat tenders are partially enclosed and are designed for two main functions: to serve as a lifeboat if needed and to ferry guests from the ship to the shore during a port call where the vessel can't dock. Lifeboat tenders are more expensive to maintain than traditional lifeboats, so cruise ships will usually have just enough lifeboat tenders to operate port tender service while the rest are the standard enclosed lifeboats.

The interior of a lifeboat includes rows of seating, which may or may not have a seatback. A steering area with windows and a hatch is located toward the top of the vessel. According to lifeboat manufacturer Fassmer, enclosed lifeboats have no windows besides those in the steering area, while lifeboat tenders have windows for viewing the surroundings from the seats. These windows do not open.

Fun fact: When Disney Cruise Line launched in the '90s, regulations required all cruise ship lifeboats to be orange. However, Disney wanted the exteriors of its ships to match the colors of Mickey Mouse, so it requested an exemption to paint its lifeboats yellow to match Mickey's shoes.

The U.S. Coast Guard granted the unique request, and the lifeboats were painted in Mickey's yellow, Pantone 99, which is a patented color that only Disney can use. Since then, other lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Costa Cruises , have painted their lifeboats yellow.

What's the typical capacity of cruise ship lifeboats?

The maximum capacity of a cruise ship lifeboat is 150 people, according to the International Maritime Organization's International Life-Saving Appliance Code. Most cruise ships have lifeboats that can hold this maximum number of passengers because it is easier, more cost-effective and takes up less space to have fewer large lifeboats instead of a greater number of smaller ones.

Despite the LSA's 150-person capacity limit for lifeboats, an exception allows for larger lifeboats on some of the world's largest cruise ships.

Related: Are cruises safe? Here's what you need to know about cruise ship security and safety

Royal Caribbean's massive Oasis of the Seas, which holds 8,880 passengers and crew members in total, was the first ship to use 370-person CRV55 catamaran lifeboats (or "rescue vessels"), designed and built by marine life-saving equipment company Umoe Schat-Harding. The enclosed vessels are unique in that they can be lowered directly from their storage position on the ship into the water (no moving outward needed), and passengers can board on two levels simultaneously, reducing the loading time. Their catamaran-style hull increases stability, while twin diesel engines and twin propellers allow these "mega" lifeboats to move at speeds of up to 6 knots.

On a cruise ship, there must be enough lifeboats to accommodate 37.5% of passengers and crew members on either side (75% total), according to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea. What happens to the other 25%? This leads us to our next question.

Do cruise ships carry inflatable life rafts?

The remaining 25% of passengers that can't be accommodated in the traditional lifeboats can use cruise ship inflatable life rafts. These are generally designated for crew members, while guests will board the lifeboats first — though rafts can also be used for guests if necessary.

Collapsible cruise ship life rafts are stored in fiberglass canisters and usually utilize a high-pressure gas to automatically inflate once deployed. While lifeboats have motors, life rafts do not. They do, however, have oars. Ships may also carry rigid, noninflatable life rafts, but they aren't as common for large cruise vessels.

On newer cruise ships, life rafts may be used with a Marine Evacuation System, which utilizes a fully enclosed inflatable spiral slide to transfer passengers from the embarkation deck to an automatically inflated raft in the water.

If some lifeboats become damaged or can't be lowered during an emergency, cruise ships have extra life rafts to pick up the slack. SOLAS requires that there are enough additional life rafts for 25% of the ship's capacity. Cruise ships have also been designed to allow lifeboats and life rafts to deploy even if the ship is listing up to 20 degrees.

Where are lifeboats located on cruise ships?

Lifeboats are located outside on both sides of the cruise ship, typically stored on or just above one of the middle decks with an outdoor promenade so passengers can easily board them. This spot is ideal because it's a central location for both the upper- and lower-deck cabins, as well as many public indoor and outdoor venues and amenities.

It also works because it keeps the lifeboats high enough out of the water that they won't be in the way when the ship docks and most likely won't be affected by rough waves. On the flip side, it keeps them low enough that they don't have to be lowered the entire height of the ship (plus, no one wants a lifeboat view from the lido pool or their upper-deck suite).

In an emergency, passengers should not head directly to the lifeboats. Instead, every cabin is assigned an assembly station, where they will meet with crew members and be escorted to a lifeboat if an evacuation is deemed necessary. Passengers must attend a muster drill to identify their assembly station and learn about their ship's emergency procedures. These drills must take place before a cruise ship can set sail.

Related: What is a cruise ship muster drill?

What can be found on a lifeboat?

While this list is not exhaustive, here's most of what you'll find on a cruise ship lifeboat, according to the LSA:

• Enough fuel to travel at 6 knots for at least a full day (24 hours)
• 48 hours' worth of anti-seasickness medication per person
• 2 seasickness bags per person
• 3 liters of fresh water per person
• 2,390 calories' worth of food rations per person
• Life jackets
• Enough thermal protective aid suits for 10% of the lifeboat's capacity
• Three can openers
• First aid supplies
• Buoyant oars
• Illuminated compass
• Hand and parachute flares
• Smoke signals
• Survival manual
• One whistle
• One jackknife
• One searchlight that can work continuously for at least three hours
• Portable fire extinguishing equipment
• Fishing gear
• Tools to repair the engine

Do lifeboats have bathrooms?

Traditional 150-person lifeboats don't have toilet facilities, but the 370-person catamaran lifeboats used on Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class ships do.

What are other requirements for lifeboats on cruise ships?

Cruise ship lifeboats must be made of noncombustible and flame-retardant materials, according to SOLAS. Modern lifeboats are usually made of fiberglass.

All seating on the lifeboat must support a person weighing a minimum of 220 pounds. In addition, the lifeboats and the wires that move them up and down must be strong enough to allow the lifeboat to be lowered at full capacity.

How are lifeboats tested?

During the manufacturing process, lifeboats are tested using water weights, which can mimic the weight of passengers in various spots around the vessel. These water weights are pumped to fill and drain with water remotely. They're placed in various spots in the lifeboat throughout the testing period to gather data on how the watercraft would handle passenger weight in various locations and scenarios.

Once a lifeboat is delivered to the shipyard for installation on a ship, the inspections and tests do not stop. Throughout the life of the cruise ship, time, weather and use all mean that — like with any type of equipment — things on the lifeboats will degrade and endure wear and tear over time. This is why SOLAS includes requirements for regular lifeboat drills and inspections.

Related: 15 cruise ship rules you shouldn't break

Cruise crew members conduct weekly and monthly lifeboat inspections and undergo periodic training so lifeboat operations stay fresh in their minds.

A more thorough inspection — by either a certified lifeboat technician from an independent company or an inspector from the lifeboat manufacturer itself — occurs annually. According to the International Maritime Organization, this process includes an inspection of these key components:

• The hull is inspected for cracks, damage or other defects.
• The propulsion system, including the engine, is inspected to ensure it's in good working condition. The cooling, exhaust and fuel systems are also examined.
• The electrical system, including the battery, charging, lighting and communications systems, are checked for defects or malfunctions.
• The maneuvering system is inspected, including the steering mechanism, the rudder and other steering gear.
• Lifeboat equipment, such as life jackets and survival equipment, is examined to ensure it's in good condition.
• The davit and winch system, including the winch and wire ropes, are checked for defects or damage.
• The lifeboat undergoes a load test to ensure that it can withstand its maximum weight of crew and passengers.

Any equipment or systems found to have defects or deficiencies during the inspection are either repaired or replaced.

Bottom line

The chances of passengers ever experiencing an emergency on a cruise that requires abandoning ship via lifeboats is extremely slim. Still, it's good to know your ship is outfitted with safety equipment to give you peace of mind when taking your next cruise.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Cruise Ship Lifeboats: 10 Surprising Facts Most People Don’t Know

Lifeboats on cruise ships have come a long way in the last 20 years.  In fact, modern safety features across the board have made huge strides that most people don’t even know about.

After all, when on a cruise ship, enjoying an amazing vacation at sea, who really thinks about worst case scenarios?

Most passengers are more concerned about a potential view being blocked by a lifeboat hanging off the side of the ship rather than what those bright orange boats do in the first place.

And yes, the internet is chalk full of fear-mongering articles about lifeboats.  Some will say there aren’t enough for everyone.  Others will use “clickbait” on YouTube thumbnails that will make would-be first-time cruisers more hesitant to hop on a ship.

Here’s the good news: cruise ships are built with safety as the top priority. Instead of dwelling on worst-case scenarios, let’s dive into the fascinating world of cruise ship lifeboats.

One of the first things you should do when you first board your cruise ship is to find your muster station so you can complete the e-muster drill that is required before the ship can leave port.

Hopefully, these fun facts will help enlighten that entire muster drill experience.

Here are 10 surprising facts you might not know, from hidden features to rigorous testing procedures.

1. Some lifeboats are used as tenders

A tender is a boat that takes cruise passengers back and forth from ship to land.   These boats are used in ports of call where the ship cannot dock and must drop anchor offshore.

I’ve had the chance to take a ride in a lifeboat tender many times.  In fact, on a recent cruise with Celebrity Ascent , the co-captains (the Kafetzis brothers) actually had a little race along side the ship as Celebrity debuted its brand-new vessel. 

And yes, those boats can move faster than you think.

Now, that’s something the average cruiser won’t get to experience, but it did give me a lot of insight into what these little life-savers are capable of.

Lifeboats that you see hanging off the side of the ship that have no windows along the full length are not usually the ones used as tenders.  Tender lifeboats are much more spacious and will often have padded seating (with some cruise lines).

Of course, in the case of an emergency, these vessels will be much more cramped as they will be filled close to maximum capacity. 

2. The capacity of lifeboats has changed

How many people can fit in a lifeboat?  That number has changed over the years. 

The 150-person capacity for lifeboats was originally set by the IMO (International Maritime Organization) in the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) code 4.4.2.1. 

Many lifeboats on today’s modern cruise ships will hold 300 people.

And now with larger cruise ships with passenger capacity’s pushing over 7,000, exceptions have been made for these behemoth vessels like Oasis-class ships from Royal Caribbean.

The 370-capacity Schat-Harding CRW55 was introduced on Oasis of the Seas, which allowed the ship to carry 18 lifeboats.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas carries lifeboats with an even greater capacity of 450 people.

3. There are enough lifeboats and life rafts for EVERYONE

This really shouldn’t be a “surprise” but if you read certain headlines on social media you might be surprised to know this.

It’s a topic that clickbait articles like to use, saying that “there aren’t enough lifeboats for everyone” on a cruise ship.

And if you’re doing the math yourself you might come to the same conclusion. 

But this fear tactic overlooks some very important facts. 

First, cruise ships do not usually ever sail at true maximum capacity.  This would mean every bed (including lower berths ) is filled.

Most cruise ships sail closer to just above double-capacity numbers, which includes two people per cabin.

Also, while almost every passenger will typically have space in a lifeboat even near maximum capacity, there are also life rafts on board. 

These inflatable life rafts are mainly used for the crew in case of emergency, but they also offer more than enough space for extra passengers as well.

A SOLAS law requires enough lifeboats for 75% of passengers (37.5% on each side of the ship).  But there must be enough lifeboats and life rafts for 100% of passengers, which means the remaining 25% can be inflatable life rafts.

These life rafts are kept in circular drums on the side of the ship.  They use a hydrostatic release system that automatically inflates when they hit the water.

Note: Even though life rafts are mainly for the crew, each lifeboat will also have crew members in them to help cruise passengers with supplies, food, and overall organization.

The number of crew in each lifeboat will vary.  There could be anywhere from 10 – 18 crew members depending on the capacity of the lifeboat.

Read more: Top 5 cruise lines with the most capacity (total berths)

4. The color of some lifeboats has changed

Historically, lifeboats have been bright orange.  This bold color would allow the boats to be more easily spotted in a vast ocean.

International maritime safety regulations emphasize the importance of lifeboats being as visible as possible.

But Disney Cruise Line wasn’t a fan of this color, as it contrasted with their brand’s color scheme. 

Thanks to approval from the U.S. Coast Guard, Disney was allowed to paint its lifeboats bright yellow, affectionately known as Pantone 99. 

Since then, Royal Caribbean has adopted yellow as its lifeboat color of choice for ships in the fleet (except for Vision and Sovereign-class ships).  Costa Cruises also has yellow lifeboats.

5. Lifeboats can be launched even with 20-degree listing

It’s important for a lifeboat to be launched in all kinds of conditions.   20-degrees is a significant tilt for such a large vessel. 

But even in this circumstance most cruise ships can still launch their life saving vessels.  

Special launch systems like adjustable davits and self-balancing winches allow lifeboats to be lowered safely. Lifeboats themselves are designed to bob upright upon water entry.

Some davits may also have counterbalancing mechanisms to help manage the weight of the lifeboat during launch on an incline.

Video tour of cruise ship lifeboat

6. All aspects of these boats are tested regularly

Before a lifeboat is even installed on a cruise ship it goes through rigorous testing.  This includes filling the boat with water weights to mimic the weight of passengers and making sure the lifeboat can handle various loads and weight distribution, among other things.

If you’ve taken many cruises you’ve probably noticed the crew take a lifeboat or two for a spin while your ship was in port. 

This isn’t just a joy ride.  It’s to make sure the engines are still operational and the vessels as still seaworthy.

Lifeboats go through weekly and monthly inspections.  The crew check for damage or improper equipment function when running through these regular tests.

Life rafts are not tested by the crew but are periodically sent to facilities for inspection as they are sealed in drums on the ship and not easily accessible.

Even the equipment on board the lifeboats are inspected.  Food rations, batteries, signal equipment, and first-aid kits are inspected for quality to make sure everything is operational in the event of an emergency.

7. Each boat has an assigned commander who drives

Not everyone on a cruise ship can drive a lifeboat. It takes a special certification that involves classes, written exams, and practical tests on the water.

The person in charge of driving a particular lifeboat (the boat commander) is often determined by their position on the ship, rather than who currently holds that job title.

There is also a second in command who will drive if the boat commander is not available. 

Also, launch teams are assigned to each boat who are in charge of operating the hooks and pulleys and will lower the boats into the water.

All of this training goes on behind the scenes with most passengers completely unaware of the safety protocols in place.

8. There’s enough food and water for at least a week

In any emergency situation in which a lifeboat is used the goal is to be rescued as quickly as possible.   But if the rescue takes longer than expected there is enough fresh water and food on board to ensure survival for at least a week.

Many cruise ships have enough water for about half a liter of water per person per day and also a box of high-calorie dry biscuits (about 270 calories per bar).  These ration biscuits have an extremely long shelf-life and can be eaten without any preparation, making them the perfect survival food that is jam packed with calories.

No, it’s not the kind of gourmet food you may find in the main dining room, but again, the point here is survival.

Read more: 10 biggest things that can ruin your cruise if you let them

9. Seasickness medication is available on lifeboats

Large cruise ships are very stable and barely move at all in relatively calm weather.  The same cannot be said of lifeboats. 

These smaller vessels do their fair share of bobbing up and down and back and forth in even minimal waves.  

This is why every lifeboat also comes equipped with motion sickness medication for every person on board.  In fact, upon entering a lifeboat every person will be given motion sickness tablets along with a bag in case anyone gets sick from all of the rocking.

What other kinds of equipment and essentials can be found in a lifeboat?

• Fishing tackle
• Sea anchor (to slow the boat or stay in one position)
• Thermal protective blankets and aids
• First-aid kit
• Rope and rope ladder
• Smoke floats
• Rockets and hand flares to for better visibility
• Fire extinguishers
• Flashlight and batteries

Read more: 35 genius cruise items on Amazon for under $15 (mostly)

10. Some lifeboats have bathrooms

People often ask if cruise ship lifeboats have toilets.   And while historically the answer has been no, some modern lifeboats do have a bathroom.

It should be noted that the primary purpose of a lifeboat is to keep you alive.  These aren’t cushy and comfortable pleasure vessels.  They are used in emergencies to help ensure your safety.

But when Oasis of the Seas debuted in 2009, she also debuted a new concept in her 370-passenger lifeboats: a toilet.   While the idea of sharing a bathroom with several hundred people isn’t a brochure-worthy concept, it’s presumably better than nothing.

Final Thoughts

While we hope that no one reading this ever has to use a lifeboat in an emergency situation, at least now you have some useless knowledge to throw around at the dinner table in the main dining room.

And you can rest at ease knowing not only are there enough lifeboats and life rafts for everyone on board, but that the crew is vigilant in making sure this equipment is kept in working order.

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Cruises Altered Due to Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean

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Cruise Ship Lifeboats: Are There Enough?!

Anyone whose every been on a cruise (or seen one) will immediately notice the rbight, colored lifeboats on the sides.

And if you’re anything like me, you probably have a lot of questions about cruise ship lifeboats.

Like, are there enough lifeboats for everyone? What is the lifeboat capacity? And in the case of an emergency, will the lifeboats on a cruise really save you?

You’d be happy to learn, cruise ship lifeboats have come a long way and modern lifeboats are incredibly designed in the highly (highly!!) unlikely event of an emergency…

Table of Contents

What Does A Lifeboat Look Like?

A lifeboat, particularly those found on cruise ships, is a brightly-colored, sturdy vessel with a protective canopy and streamlined design.

It’s designed to prioritize the safety and rescue of individuals during maritime emergencies. When picturing a lifeboat, several key characteristics come to mind.

The bright color is chosen to ensure high visibility even in rough seas and poor weather conditions, aiding rescuers in locating them from a distance.

Lifeboats are generally robust, with a hard outer shell made of materials like fiberglass, designed to withstand harsh sea conditions and resist damage upon impact.

The shape is streamlined, with a slightly rounded hull and canopy, aiding in making them stable and minimizing the risk of capsizing.

One of the most distinguishing features of a lifeboat is its canopy. The canopy covers the majority of the boat and serves multiple purposes.

It protects passengers from the elements, such as rain, wind, and sun, and also prevents water from entering the boat. There are typically windows or clear patches on the canopy to allow for visibility.

On the inside, the seating is arranged to maximize capacity while still providing each passenger with a secure spot. Lifeboats are equipped with essential safety equipment, including life vests, ropes, and sometimes even basic navigational tools.

To aid in propulsion, lifeboats can have oar locks for manual rowing, but many modern ones are equipped with motorized engines to move quickly in water when needed.

What’s the Typical Capacity of Cruise Ship Lifeboats?

Lifeboats are specifically designed to accommodate a large number of people in a secure manner.

Typically, the standard lifeboat found on many cruise ships can hold around 150 passengers. This number ensures that, in the event of an emergency, passengers can be evacuated quickly and efficiently.

However, with the advent of larger cruise ships, there has been a need for lifeboats with greater capacities.

As a result, some of the newer and larger ships have lifeboats that can accommodate up to 370 passengers.

It’s important to note that these capacities are determined based on rigorous safety standards and regulations.

These standards consider not just the number of seats, but also the provision of essential life-saving equipment within the lifeboat, ensuring that everyone aboard has access to necessary supplies and safety gear.

Do Cruise Ships Carry Inflatable Life Rafts?

Yes, in addition to the traditional hard-shelled lifeboats, many cruise ships are equipped with inflatable life rafts. These rafts serve as an essential supplement to the regular lifeboats, providing additional evacuation capacity in emergency situations.

Inflatable life rafts are compact when stored, taking up minimal deck space. In their packed state, they are usually housed in cylindrical containers.

When deployed, these rafts inflate automatically, usually using a mixture of gas canisters, to form a buoyant, stable structure on water.

The design of inflatable life rafts emphasizes both safety and visibility. They are typically bright-colored, most often orange or yellow, for easy detection in open waters.

They come equipped with canopies to protect evacuees from the elements, be it scorching sun, rain, or high waves. These canopies, just like those on hard-shelled lifeboats, have clear patches or windows to allow for visibility.

Inside, the rafts contain essential survival gear, including flares, first aid kits, water pouches, and sometimes even basic fishing equipment. They also possess ballast bags filled with water on their underside to enhance stability in rough seas.

Inflatable life rafts on cruise ships are not meant to replace traditional lifeboats but to complement them.

In situations where a rapid evacuation is essential, or when the main lifeboats might be inaccessible due to the ship’s angle or damage, these rafts play a pivotal role in ensuring passengers and crew have a safe means of leaving the ship.

The inflatable life rafts on cruise ships are available for the remaining 25% of passengers who may not find space in the traditional lifeboats. While these rafts are usually reserved for crew members, guests can also use them if needed.

Priority is given to guests for boarding the regular lifeboats, with the inflatable rafts serving as an additional option if required.

Life Rafts Vs Life Boats

It’s easy to mix up lifeboats and life rafts, but they’re actually pretty different.

Some quick differences to keep in mind are:

• Hard-shelled, sturdy.
• Bright colors, typically orange.
• Can have a motor.
• Inflatable, flexible.
• Also brightly colored for visibility.
• No motor, rely on currents and oars.
• Larger, designed to hold many passengers.
• Offer more protection against rough waters.
• Smaller than lifeboats.
• Deployed quickly, ideal for rapid evacuation.
• Takes more time to launch.
• Priority for passengers during evacuations.
• Faster to deploy.
• Often reserved for crew, but available for passengers if needed.
• More stable due to their structure.
• Equipped with more amenities like seats and protective cover.
• Less stable than lifeboats but still safe.
• Basic, focusing primarily on flotation and protection.
• Main evacuation vessel for passengers.
• Aimed at longer duration at sea.
• Backup or supplementary evacuation option.
• Best for short-term use until a more stable rescue option arrives.

Are There Enough Lifeboats for Everyone in the Event of an Emergency?

Cruise ships typically don’t have a lifeboat for every single person on board. Instead, they ensure that there are enough lifeboats for all the guests.

But what about the crew then? Most crew members have designated inflatable life rafts instead of lifeboats. These are quick to deploy and are an efficient way to ensure the crew’s safety.

Now, there’s a reason behind this configuration. Imagine trying to fit a lifeboat for everyone on the ship’s sides. That’d be like trying to park too many cars in a limited space. Lifeboats need room.

They have to be spaced out so they can be easily lowered to the ocean without causing chaos. And, there’s a limit to how many of these boats can be attached along the ship’s sides.

Here’s another thing: the act of launching a lifeboat isn’t as simple as pressing a button. It needs a trained crew member.

But once they’ve launched a lifeboat, how do they evacuate? They can’t exactly take a leap after sending the boat down, right? That’s where the life rafts come in, ensuring those crew members also have a safe exit.

Now, if you’re scratching your head thinking about regulations, here’s some clarity: according to maritime laws, cruise lines aren’t mandated to have a lifeboat for every passenger.

As long as there’s enough capacity for 37.5% of passengers on each side of the ship (adding up to 75% in total) in lifeboats, the rest can be in life rafts.

However, many cruise lines often go above and beyond. Why? Because ensuring their customers feel safe and secure is a priority.

A little extra reassurance never hurts when you’re out at sea.

Is There Food On A Lifeboat?

Lifeboats, while crucial for emergencies, are also designed to sustain lives in potentially prolonged rescue scenarios.

They are equipped with:

• Food Rations : Every lifeboat is mandated to carry sufficient food provisions. Specifically, there should be at least 10,000 kJ (or 2,390 calories) set aside for each person the lifeboat can accommodate. This ensures that even if a rescue takes time, individuals on board have enough sustenance. It’s vital that this food remains uncontaminated, so it’s kept in packaging that’s both airtight and watertight.
• Tinned Food and Tools : Canned food is a popular choice for lifeboat provisions due to its long shelf life and compact storage. But what’s canned food without a way to access it? Recognizing this, regulations stipulate that lifeboats must be equipped with at least three tin openers. This redundancy ensures that even if one becomes unusable, there are backups available.
• Water Supplies : Fresh water, indispensable for survival, must also be on board. Each person should have access to three liters of fresh water. However, there’s a provision in the rules: if the lifeboat carries materials to desalinate seawater, turning it into drinkable fresh water, then the initial requirement can be reduced to two liters per person. This flexibility acknowledges the potential of self-sustaining practices while at sea.

Do Cruise Ship Lifeboats Have Toilets?

Lifeboats, historically, prioritized primary life-saving features over comforts. Consequently, many older lifeboats didn’t come equipped with toilets, as these vessels were designed for short-term emergency use rather than extended stays. Toilets, in this context, weren’t seen as essential amenities.

However, the evolution of cruise ships and their lifeboats has brought about changes. Enter the “mega lifeboats” – a nod to modernity and passenger comfort.

First seen on vessels like the Oasis of the Seas, these larger lifeboats incorporate toilets, reflecting an acknowledgment of potential longer rescue periods and the basic needs of occupants.

But what if you found yourself on one of those older lifeboats without a toilet? Given advancements in signaling and communication technologies, rescues are typically swift nowadays. Once aboard the rescue vessel, restroom facilities would be available.

In the unlikely scenario where the wait becomes long, and nature calls become urgent, one would ideally and carefully relieve themselves over the boat’s side, keeping personal safety paramount.

Admittedly, this workaround might be more challenging for some passengers than others, depending on circumstances and gender.

Another practical concern, often more prevalent than the need for a restroom, is seasickness. The motion of a lifeboat on choppy waters can be unsettling to many.

If seasickness occurs, it’s advisable for passengers to lean over the boat’s side to avoid contaminating the interior. This measure ensures the comfort and well-being of all on board.

Do Cruise Ships Have Lifeboat Drills?

Cruise ships do conduct lifeboat drills, and they are an essential aspect of the cruising experience. These drills are not just a nod to safety standards, but a foundational practice to ensure the wellbeing of every passenger and crew member on board.

Every major cruise line takes safety as its utmost priority. Therefore, before the ship embarks on its journey, all passengers are required to participate in a lifeboat drill, commonly known as a muster drill. This drill is so crucial that it’s mandated by international maritime law.

Now, let’s break down what happens during these drills. Passengers are guided to specific locations, known as muster stations.

These stations are strategically placed, usually near lifeboats, to streamline the evacuation process in case of an actual emergency.

While at the muster stations, passengers receive instructions on how to wear life jackets, how the evacuation process works, and what they should expect in case of an emergency.

It’s worth noting that the crew members on cruise ships are highly trained in safety protocols. They undergo frequent drills and training sessions themselves, even more rigorous than what passengers experience. This ensures that in the unlikely event of an emergency, they’re well-prepared to guide and assist passengers.

In the digital age, some cruise lines have even incorporated technology into the mix. While the traditional loudspeaker announcements still play a role, many ships have screens displaying safety information and procedures, making it easier for passengers to understand and follow the drill.

Lifeboat drills on cruise ships are a non-negotiable, vital practice. They not only adhere to safety regulations but also equip passengers with the knowledge and confidence that, should an emergency arise, they’ll know what to do.

How Many Lifeboats on Mega Cruise Ships?

Modern mega-cruise ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas , feature lifeboats significantly larger than those on traditional cruise ships.

These advanced lifeboats can accommodate up to 370 passengers, more than double the typical capacity of 150 in standard lifeboats.

This enhanced capacity not only ensures the safety of a larger number of passengers but also means that fewer lifeboats are required on board, optimizing deck space and ensuring efficient evacuation processes in case of emergencies.

Safety Regulation Of Cruise Ship Lifeboats

One of the primary regulations comes from the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), which mandates that a ship must have enough lifeboats to accommodate at least 75% of the people on board.

This rule was implemented in response to the Titanic disaster, which tragically did not have sufficient lifeboat capacity for everyone.

In addition to the SOLAS requirement, modern cruise ships must also meet the following lifeboat criteria:

• Ships are required to have partially or totally enclosed lifeboats for 50% of the total capacity of people onboard, on each side. This means that the combined lifeboat capacity on both sides of the ship should cover 100% of the passengers and crew members.
• A rigid or inflatable liferaft must make up at least 25% of the ship’s total capacity.
• Lifeboats and liferafts need to be easily accessible and quickly deployed in emergency situations.

These rules are strictly enforced by international maritime bodies, and inspections ensure that cruise ships comply with these standards.

Lifeboat Operations

Launch Procedure

As a passenger, you’ll participate in a mandatory lifeboat drill on the first day of your cruise to familiarize yourself with the process and ensure you can act quickly in case of an emergency.

Lifeboats are typically stored on both sides of the ship, and each passenger is assigned to a specific one.

During the launch procedure, the crew will give the signal to assemble at your designated muster stations.

These are areas close to the lifeboats where you’ll receive further instructions from the crew. Make sure to wear your lifejacket and follow the crew’s guidance to board the lifeboat safely and efficiently.

Once all passengers are on board, the lifeboats are lowered into the water using a davit system. This mechanism releases the lifeboat in a controlled manner while ensuring it remains stable.

As the lifeboat reaches the water, the crew will start the engine, disconnect the boat from the davit system, and navigate away from the cruise ship.

Recovery Operation

After a successful lifeboat launch, the next phase is the recovery operation.

In a real-life emergency, the lifeboat’s primary goal is to transport passengers to a safe location; however, during a drill or exercise, the lifeboat will return to the ship to practice the recovery process.

Once the lifeboat approaches the cruise ship, the crew must align it with the davit system carefully. The boat hooks are then reconnected, and the lifeboat is hoisted back to its original storage position.

Throughout this process, it’s essential for passengers to remain calm and seated to maintain stability and ensure the lifeboat can be safely recovered.

Remember, your safety is the top priority during lifeboat operations. By familiarizing yourself with the launch and recovery procedures, you’ll be better prepared to act calmly and efficiently if an emergency evacuation is ever required. Trust the crew and follow their guidance to ensure the best possible outcome.

Training and Drills

Training and drills play a crucial role in ensuring the crew and passengers are well-prepared for any situation that may arise regarding lifeboats.

Cruise ship crew members undergo intensive training to handle lifeboat operations. This training may include activities such as launching, maneuvering, and retrieval of lifeboats.

It’s essential to ensure that the crew is well-equipped to manage any situation that might require the use of lifeboats, whether for evacuation or other emergencies.

During your cruise, you’ll likely participate in a mandatory muster drill. This drill is designed to familiarize you with your designated muster station, where you should go in case of an emergency. You’ll also learn about the location of lifeboats and life jackets and the proper techniques for wearing them.

Cruise ships often conduct regular abandon-ship drills that involve the crew simulating an evacuation scenario. These drills are essential for maintaining the crew’s proficiency in handling lifeboats and ensuring that necessary equipment is in proper working order. In addition to standard lifeboats, cruise ships may also have lifeboat tenders that serve as both a rescue vessel and a form of transportation during port calls.

As a passenger, knowing about the training and drills related to lifeboats can help you feel more confident in your safety while enjoying your cruise vacation.

Maintenance and Inspection

When it comes to keeping the lifeboats on your cruise ship in top condition, regular maintenance and inspection is absolutely essential.

With safety as the top priority, you must ensure that lifeboats are frequently checked and maintained by qualified professionals.

Starting with weekly and monthly inspections, you should follow a strict schedule that adheres to the regulations set forth by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Items to be inspected include the basic lifeboat structure and its release gear. By conducting these routine checks, you’ll be able to promptly identify any issues or potential problems that could compromise the lifeboat’s functionality during an emergency.

In addition to the regular inspections, the IMO has also recently amended the requirements for periodic servicing of life-saving appliances.

Beginning January 2020, new procedures have been enforced for maintenance and inspection of lifeboats, and requirements for authorizing service suppliers have also been adjusted accordingly.

This ensures that only credible and qualified suppliers handle the critical task of maintaining lifeboats.

When servicing lifeboats, remember that there is a specified frequency at which different components need attention. For instance:

• Weekly : Examine the release gear, buoyancy material, and any visible signs of wear or damage.
• Monthly : Inspect the lifeboat’s hull, engine, and electrical system to ensure optimal functioning.

As part of the maintenance process, it’s important to engage qualified engineers who are experienced with lifeboat systems. Companies like Survitec are gaining ground in lifeboat maintenance services, deploying highly skilled technicians across continents to provide annual and five-yearly inspection and maintenance services.

By following these guidelines and adhering to the regulations set forth by the IMO, you can ensure that the lifeboats on your cruise ship are well-maintained and ready for use in case of an emergency.

Remember, a properly maintained lifeboat could be the difference between life and death for passengers and crew members alike.

History of Lifeboats on Cruise Ships

Lifeboats have come a long way since their humble beginnings. Back in the day, they were simple vessels launched from shore, their primary purpose being to rescue people stranded at sea.

With time, technological advancements saw the evolution of lifeboats as they are known today on cruise ships: double-decker mini-ships capable of carrying hundreds of people.

As you dive into the history of lifeboats on cruise ships, you’ll learn that regulations played a crucial role in shaping their development.

It wasn’t until the 1948 adoption of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) agreement that certain ships were required to carry at least one motorized lifeboat on board. Interestingly, in 1964, motors were only mandated for lifeboats designed to carry over 100 people.

Today, lifeboat tenders on cruise ships possess a dual nature. Primarily, they serve their main purpose of acting as lifeboats in times of need.

Moreover, they’re used to ferry passengers from the ship to the shore when docking isn’t possible at a port. The dual functionality underscores the importance of lifeboats in ensuring both safety and convenience for cruise passengers.

Throughout this journey into the history of lifeboats on cruise ships, you’ll come to appreciate the efforts made to enhance safety at sea.

Continuous improvements in technology and design have elevated lifeboats from simple rescue vessels to modern marvels capable of providing refuge for potentially hundreds of passengers in the event of an emergency.

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Are There Enough Lifeboats On Cruise Ships To Save Every Last Passenger?

By: Author David Chapman

Posted on Last updated: October 14, 2023

Categories Health & Safety , LEARN

The Titanic disaster was more than 100 years ago, and it remains a vivid, cautionary tale. Have we truly learned from the mistakes of the past? Today, are there enough lifeboats on cruise ships sufficient to save every single person on the ship? With the combined numbers of passengers and crew, the capacity of today’s modern cruise ships are often three or four times greater than that of the Titanic.

Contemporary lifeboats are required by law to have a sufficient number of lifeboats onboard to ensure a seat on a lifeboat for every soul on board the ship. Most ships have extra lifeboats that exceed the ship’s passenger capacity to accommodate for lifeboat malfunctions, etc.

While ships are designed and regulated so that everybody is guaranteed a spot on a lifeboat should the need arise, there is no guarantee that this will always be achieved. However, the likelihood of the ship sinking is extremely low, with a far higher risk associated with everyday tasks like driving to work. The last major cruise ship disaster involving lifeboats was the Costa Concordia wreck in 2012 .

Are There Enough Lifeboats On Cruise Ships?

The number of lifeboats on cruise ships is highly regulated by SOLAS, an acronym referring to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea . Each ship must have lifeboats situated along each side of the ship, with a minimum of 37.5% of the ship’s passenger capacity accommodated on each side. 

Ships will exceed this number in most cases, usually accommodating around 150% of the total number of souls on board. And all of that extra space does not sit idle. Typically, a cruise ship will use its own lifeboats as tender boats when it needs to tender passengers to shore. (If you’re not sure what a “tender” is, check out our tips for first-time cruisers .)

Why We Care About Lifeboats On Cruise Ships

The first thing that comes to mind when mentioning lifeboats on a cruise ship is the Titanic . This is because it is a well-known fact that the Titanic simply did not have enough lifeboats to accommodate all of the passengers on board.

This was mostly due to outdated regulations and the fact that it was never anticipated that every soul on board would need to leave the ship simultaneously. 

Despite not having a sufficient number of lifeboats, some were broken before they could be used, and several of them left the vicinity of the sinking ship with only half the number of passengers they could have potentially carried.

The case of the Titanic has served as the ultimate precedent in ensuring that everybody on the ship has a spot on a lifeboat should the need arise to abandon the ship. And, notwithstanding what happened with the Costa Concordia, one of the essential functions of a cruise ship captain’s job is to supervise the overall safety of the ship.

If the ship runs into trouble of any sort, and the entire contingent of individuals on board need to leave the ship immediately, there must be a series of accessible lifeboats with a combined capacity for every person on the ship. 

This is the only way to ensure the survival of everybody on board should the ship sink or catch fire.

What Is The Design Of A Lifeboat

Lifeboats are usually one of three designs, but the most popular is the fully enclosed option which provides protection for passengers whatever the weather conditions. Traditionally, the primary focus of a lifeboat was survival, and so the design was based solely with survival in mind.

However, these days a cruise ship’s lifeboats can be multipurpose — used to ferry passengers to the port as necessary. And, as cruise ships have grown bigger and bolder, this has carried over to the lifeboats in some instances.

For instance, Celebrity Edge had lifeboats that are downright luxurious. The Edge Launches have air conditioning, plush bucket seats, and picture window views. As Celebrity has said, the “Edge Launches are desinged to get you to your destination in luxurious style.”

Lifeboats are built out of non-combustible materials to ensure that they are flame-retardant. They are built to be completely stable even when filled to capacity, and they are able to be deployed while the ship is moving at a maximum speed of 5 knots. 

How Many People Can Fit In a Lifeboat

The usual maximum capacity for lifeboats is around 150 people. This is a number that has been used for a number of years. New megaships have adopted the use of larger lifeboats that can accommodate 370 people, which means that fewer lifeboats are needed in order to meet the required capacity.

Lifeboats Today – Do They Have Enough Room For Everyone On Board

Contemporary lifeboats are carefully designed to accommodate a specific number of passengers, with a designated seat for every individual on board. No lifeboat will exceed its capacity, ensuring that there is sufficient space for everybody on board.

How Big Are Lifeboats On Cruise Ships

All lifeboats on cruise ships are usually around 7.3 meters or longer, with all seats able to support a 100 kg person (220lbs). Most lifeboats have the capacity for 150 people.

How Do Lifeboats Work On Cruise Ships

The majority of lifeboats are lowered from the boat deck on the ship (once the passengers are on board) by cradle arms that swing out and lower the boats onto the water using cables. This system is designed to lower the boat onto the water as quickly as possible to ensure that it is able to get passengers away from the ship.

Where Are The Lifeboats On a Cruise Ship?

Lifeboats are located along the sides of the ship on the deck that is the most easily accessible to the majority of the passengers and crew. This deck is usually named the boat deck, ensuring that passengers and crew know exactly where to go in the event of an emergency.

Inside Lifeboats On Cruise Ships

Lifeboats are designed with one thing in mind – survival. The design focuses on fitting in as many people as possible to ensure their survival. The center of a lifeboat is most often oval in shape, with the center area blocked out for structural elements.

There are seats around the external perimeter of the boat, with padding for the basic comfort of the passengers. Equipment is usually stored in compartments underneath the seats. The equipment includes everything needed to survive at sea while awaiting further assistance, including water, food rations, and numerous other items.

In the front center of the boat, above the diesel engine, there is the command console from where the boat’s pilot will ensure that everybody reaches safety.

This post may contain affiliate links that could provide a commission to this website (at no additional cost to you). See our  Disclosures Page .

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With contemporary regulations as well as strict training protocols enforced for all staff onboard a ship, you can pretty much be assured that you will have a place on a lifeboat if the ship you’re traveling on is ever in need of evacuation while you’re on board.

Regulations ensure that there are enough lifeboats to accommodate all passengers and crew onboard the ship, and an extra 50% of the ship’s passenger capacity is usually catered for in order to accommodate for any failures of lifeboats. 

This includes the off chance that some lifeboats may not be deployable due to the boat listing too far to one side or for any other unforeseeable circumstances.

Last update on 2024-07-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Related Articles

Do Modern Cruise Ships Have Enough Lifeboats? (Safety at Sea)

Many people worry that cruise ships don’t have enough lifeboats if an emergency evacuation is needed.

Evacuations from cruise ships by lifeboat are incredibly rare – but all cruise ships must carry enough lifeboats for all passengers and crew .

All ships are governed by SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea) regulations. These regulations make sure that all ships have the necessary safety equipment onboard, and regular safety checks and crew training take place.

A Short History of Lifeboats

For over a century, Ocean liners were the main way people travelled when making intercontinental journeys.

Ocean Liner travel began in the middle of the 19th century and continued until travel by plane became possible and affordable in the 1950s. The popularity of travel by Ocean Liner then declined.

Large Ocean Liners carried passengers, cargo and mail. Find out more about Ocean Liners here:

Ocean Liners, They Still Exist: Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Although ships were getting bigger and more people travelled, safety rules regarding lifeboats were woefully inadequate.

British legislation said that the number of lifeboats needed onboard was based on the tonnage of the ship. Any ships under 10,000 gross registered tons were excluded completely.

The Sinking Of The Titanic Led To Changes

It is a well-known fact that Titanic didn’t hold enough lifeboats to hold all of the passengers onboard.

Why would she? the White Star Line said she was “unsinkable.”

The shortage of lifeboats was not due to the lack of space, she had actually been designed to accommodate up to 64 lifeboats.

There were only 20 lifeboats onboard on her ill-fated maiden voyage. This was enough to save only around 33% of the people onboard.

The White Star Line felt that too many lifeboats on Titanic would clutter the deck and obscure the First Class passengers’ views.

Titanic sailed under safety regulations that originated nearly 20 years earlier – when the largest passenger ships weighed 10,000 tons. Titanic was more than four times that size.

Introduction of SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea)

After the sinking of the Titanic, it was decided that ships should carry enough lifeboats for everyone onboard. There would also be lifeboat drills and inspections to avoid another similar disaster.

The SOLAS Convention sets out the minimum standards for:

• Minimum standards / Quality control etc
• Including Machinery, electrical equipment, fire protection, life-saving appliances, radio communications, navigation safety, and cargo carriage.
• Regular drills, crew training etc.

This is why you MUST carry out a Muster Drill when you take a cruise.

A muster drill is a  mandatory  safety exercise with the objective to familiarize all guests and crew with the location (muster station) where they are to assemble in the unlikely event of an emergency. During this drill, additional safety information (i.e., how to don a life jacket) is presented. The International Convention of Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulatory guidelines require that a muster drill be held within 24 hours of a ship’s departure from its embarkation port. Royal Caribbean International

Find out more about cruise ship Muster Drills here:

What is a Muster Drill on a Cruise? Everything You Need to Know (REVIEW of Traditional and Virtual Muster Drills)

It Is VERY Unlikely That You Would Be Evacuated By Lifeboat

If a modern cruise ship were to get into any difficulties, it is very likely that they would quickly detour to the nearest available port.

If Cruise Lines thought that bad weather may cause a ship problems, they would avoid the area or cancel the cruise, rather than risk the passengers or ship coming to harm.

Find out the ways cruise ships avoid bad weather in the article below:

5 Ways Cruise Ships Avoid Bad Weather – and How It’ll Affect Your Cruise

Emergency Situations At Sea

Some ships have found themselves in an emergency situations at sea – although this is very rare.

Some well-known examples include:

When MS Viking Sky got into difficulties off the coast of Norway in March 2019, a partial evacuation by helicopter took place.

MS Viking Sky is a cruise ship that was carrying 1,373 passengers and crew,

She sailed from the northern city of Tromso, heading for Stavanger in southern Norway, but the ship began struggling with engine failure. She started to list dangerously, took in water, and was in danger of being blown ashore.

Norwegian weather was reported at the time as having wind gusts up to 43 mph and waves of over 26 feet. 

Just under 500 people were evacuated by helicopter before the ship managed to start some of her engines and limped back to port. She finally docked under her own power in the port of Molde.

Star Princess

In March 2006 there was a serious fire onboard the Star Princess. 23% of her cabins were destroyed in that fire.

No one was evacuated by lifeboat, but this led to yet more safety improvements on cruise ships.

Find out about that fire here:

Lifeboats Used When The Costa Concordia Sank

Some lifeboats were launched when the Costa Concordia sank off the coast of the island of Giglio in 2012.

The Costa Concordia ran aground after Captain Francesco Schettino detoured from his approved course, sailing close to an Island and gashing the ship’s hull on a reef.

4,200 passengers and crew had to evacuate in the dark, and 32 people died.

Unfortunately, because the ship had listed heavily to starboard, it made it impossible to launch all of the lifeboats.

Find out more about that disaster here:

What Happened to The Captain of The Costa Concordia? – Conviction and Sentence

What Are Lifeboats Like on Modern Cruise Ships?

Modern Lifeboats are well-equipped, and carry enough food and water for passengers onboard to survive for a week at sea.

They also carry seasickness tablets, first aid kits, thermal blankets – and far more besides!

They are usually bright orange, so they can be easily seen against the blue sea or dark skies .

Disney Cruise Line are an exception to this rule .

Disney Cruise Line was the first cruise line to have yellow lifeboats, instead of the traditional regulation orange. Disney was granted special permission from the U.S. Coast Guard to paint the lifeboats yellow, to keep with the special colour theming of the ship. Disney Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean and Costa Cruises also use yellow lifeboats , instead of orange.

As well as the rigid-bodied lifeboats onboard, there will be some inflatable life rafts too.

When I sailed onboard P&O’s Arvia, the crew spotted a liferaft out at sea. The ship spun around and headed back to recover it.

Find out all about that here:

Normally life rafts are reserved for the crew because they’re not as comfortable.

Crew may have to use slides to reach them, rather than just stepping onboard them from the ship’s deck.

Able-bodied guests may be required to slide down a chute and into an inflatable life raft in a case of emergency.

Find out everything you could ever wish to know about lifeboats – and more – here:

Inside a Cruise Ship Lifeboat (Crew Tour) – Emergency Food, Engine, Seating Plan and More

Lifeboats Are Also Used As Tenders

Tendering is where guests use a lifeboat, or smaller boat, to get from the cruise ship to the port.

Tendering usually happens when the ship is too big to dock in a certain port or the port is already occupied by another ship.

Guests are able to find out before a cruise if a port is tendered, as it is detailed on the itinerary.

Find out all about tendering from Cruise Ships here:

Cruise Ship Tendering – 5 Tips You NEED to Know

When I sailed onboard the Celebrity Edge we tendered to the port of Portofino. On the way back the ship’s Captain sailed the lifeboat back to the cruise ship! Watch that here:

Before You Go

Find out more about the route of Titanic’s maiden voyage in the article below:

The Titanic’s Route – From Shipyard to Sinking (Via Southampton, Cherbourg and Queenstown)

Find out about the bizarre superstitions surrounding sailing on ships here:

7 Bizarre Cruise Superstitions (That You’re Probably Breaking)

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

Ever wondered how the mainstream cruise lines compare? Cruise lines won’t tell you this, but I will.

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Plan Your Trip

How Many Lifeboats Are Required On A Cruise Ship

Published: December 8, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Mickie Garrett

• Sustainability

Introduction

Welcome aboard the exciting world of cruise ships! Cruise vacations offer a unique and thrilling experience, with stunning ocean views, luxurious amenities, and a wide range of onboard entertainment. For those venturing out into the high seas, it’s important to prioritize safety and be aware of the precautions in place to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew members.

Among the many safety measures implemented on cruise ships, one crucial aspect is the provision of lifeboats. These are designated for use in emergency situations, ensuring the safe evacuation of passengers and crew in the event of an incident at sea. But have you ever wondered how many lifeboats are required on a cruise ship, and what factors influence this number? In this article, we will delve into the international regulations governing lifeboat requirements, the factors that determine the number of lifeboats, the size and type of ships that affect these requirements, and the additional safety measures put in place to enhance emergency preparedness.

Understanding the regulations and principles behind lifeboat requirements is essential for cruise ship operators, as they strive to provide a safe and secure environment for their passengers. It also gives passengers peace of mind, knowing that adequate measures are in place to protect their well-being during their cruise vacation.

So, let’s embark on this journey of exploration to discover the fascinating world of lifeboat requirements on cruise ships, and gain insight into the critical aspects that contribute to this vital safety feature.

International Regulations for Lifeboats on Cruise Ships

When it comes to the safety of passengers and crew members on cruise ships, international regulations play a crucial role in determining the requirements for lifeboats. These regulations provide a framework that cruise operators must adhere to, ensuring that the necessary life-saving equipment is available in case of an emergency.

The primary international regulation that governs lifeboat requirements is the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). SOLAS is a treaty developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and sets out minimum safety standards for ships, including rules for life-saving appliances like lifeboats.

According to SOLAS regulations, every cruise ship must have sufficient lifeboat capacity to accommodate all persons on board. This capacity includes both passengers and crew members, ensuring that everyone can be safely evacuated in an emergency. Additionally, these lifeboats must be arranged in a manner that allows for safe and efficient launching, under the supervision of trained crew members.

SOLAS also specifies the equipment and features that lifeboats must possess. These include provisions for survival at sea, such as emergency rations, fresh water, and appropriate signaling devices. Additionally, lifeboats must be equipped with propulsion systems or be designed to be easily maneuvered with oars, ensuring that they can be navigated to safety if the ship becomes incapacitated.

It’s important to note that SOLAS regulations are regularly updated to incorporate advancements in technology and address emerging safety concerns. Cruise ship operators must stay abreast of these changes and ensure that their vessels are in compliance with the latest requirements.

Beyond SOLAS, there may be additional regulations at the regional or national level that cruise ships must adhere to, depending on the routes they operate in and the countries they visit. These regulations may provide specific guidelines on lifeboat capacity, equipment standards, crew training, and emergency response procedures.

By adhering to these international regulations, cruise ship operators demonstrate their commitment to passenger safety and emergency preparedness. These regulations provide a standardized framework that ensures a consistent level of safety across the global cruise industry.

Factors Affecting the Number of Lifeboats Required

The number of lifeboats required on a cruise ship is influenced by several factors that aim to ensure sufficient capacity for all passengers and crew members. These factors take into account the vessel’s passenger capacity, the type and size of the ship, and the potential risks it may encounter during its operational lifespan.

1. Passenger Capacity: The primary factor that determines the number of lifeboats required is the passenger capacity of the cruise ship. SOLAS regulations mandate that there must be enough lifeboats to accommodate every person on board. Passenger capacity includes both paying guests and crew members, ensuring that everyone can be safely evacuated in the event of an emergency. The number of lifeboats must be proportional to the total passenger capacity to meet these requirements.

2. Vessel Type and Size: The type and size of the cruise ship also play a significant role in determining the number of lifeboats required. Larger vessels are expected to have a higher passenger capacity and, therefore, need more lifeboats to accommodate everyone. Additionally, the size of the ship may impact the availability of deck space for lifeboat storage and launching arrangements. Ship designers must carefully consider these factors to ensure that the required number of lifeboats can be accommodated safely and effectively.

3. Risk Assessment: Cruise ship operators need to assess potential risks that their vessels may encounter, such as the cruising region’s weather conditions and proximity to land. These risk assessments help determine whether additional lifeboats or alternative life-saving equipment, such as liferafts, are necessary. For example, ships operating in remote or challenging areas may require additional lifeboats to account for longer response times or limited nearby assistance.

4. Crew Training and Capability: Alongside the number of lifeboats required, crew training and capability are vital considerations. The crew must be adequately trained to handle lifeboat operations and navigation in emergency situations. The number of qualified crew members available to man the lifeboats may influence the overall lifeboat capacity, as there must be enough trained personnel to operate all lifeboats effectively.

5. Industry Best Practices: While not mandatory, industry best practices and guidelines can provide additional guidance on lifeboat requirements. These recommendations may go beyond the minimum standards set by SOLAS and serve as a benchmark for cruise operators to enhance safety measures and ensure adequate lifeboat provisions.

By considering these factors, cruise ship operators can determine the most appropriate number of lifeboats required for their specific vessel. It is essential to adhere to these guidelines and regulations to prioritize the safety and well-being of all passengers and crew members on board.

Passenger Capacity and Lifeboat Requirements

The passenger capacity of a cruise ship is one of the key factors in determining the number of lifeboats required. It is vital to ensure that there are sufficient lifeboats on board to accommodate all passengers and crew members in the event of an emergency. The primary objective is to facilitate a safe and swift evacuation, minimizing the risk to human life.

SOLAS regulations stipulate that cruise ships must have enough lifeboats to accommodate all persons on board, including passengers and crew members. The total passenger capacity is a crucial consideration when determining the number of lifeboats required. The regulations ensure that there are enough lifeboats for everyone, regardless of the ship’s size or route it operates in.

The passenger capacity of a cruise ship is determined by several factors, including the size and layout of the vessel, the number of cabins or staterooms, and the available amenities and facilities. Cruise ships can range from intimate vessels carrying a few hundred passengers to mega-ships accommodating several thousand individuals.

For smaller cruise ships with a passenger capacity of, for example, 200-500 passengers, there may be enough deck space and resources to accommodate the required number of lifeboats directly on board. These lifeboats are typically located on designated lifeboat decks or promenades, where passengers and crew members can easily access them during an emergency.

However, as cruise ships increase in size and passenger capacity, carrying enough lifeboats on board becomes more challenging due to space limitations or weight restrictions. In such cases, the cruise ship may be equipped with a combination of lifeboats and alternative life-saving appliances, such as liferafts.

Liferafts are inflatable rafts that can be deployed in an emergency and provide a means of evacuation and survival at sea. They are designed to accommodate a specific number of individuals and are equipped with necessary supplies, including food, water, and communication devices. The passenger capacity of liferafts should be sufficient to compensate for any shortfall in the number of lifeboats required to accommodate all passengers and crew members.

It is essential for cruise ship operators to carefully calculate and allocate the appropriate number of lifeboats and liferafts based on the passenger capacity of the ship. Adequate training and preparedness are also critical factors to ensure the safe and efficient deployment of these life-saving appliances in an emergency.

Passenger safety is of paramount importance to the cruise industry, and complying with lifeboat requirements is an integral part of providing a secure and enjoyable cruise experience. By adhering to regulations and considering the passenger capacity, cruise ship operators demonstrate their commitment to the well-being and security of all those on board.

Size and Type of Cruise Ships and Lifeboat Requirements

The size and type of cruise ships play a significant role in determining the specific lifeboat requirements. Cruise ships come in various sizes and configurations, each requiring careful consideration to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.

1. Vessel Size: The size of a cruise ship directly impacts the number of passengers it can accommodate, as well as the space available for lifeboats. Larger cruise ships typically have a higher passenger capacity and, therefore, require more lifeboats to ensure everyone can be safely evacuated in an emergency. Due to space limitations, mega-sized cruise ships might face challenges in carrying the necessary number of lifeboats on board. Therefore, alternative solutions, such as liferafts, may be employed to compensate for any shortfall, in compliance with regulations.

3. Space Constraints: The availability of deck space and storage areas also influences the number and type of lifeboats a cruise ship can carry. Larger ships with more open deck areas may have sufficient space to accommodate the required number of lifeboats directly on board. However, space limitations may require smaller ships to employ alternative solutions, such as davit-launched or inflatable lifeboats. These variations must still comply with safety regulations and ensure the safe embarkation and launching of the lifeboats.

4. Hybrid Solutions: Some cruise ships utilize a combination of lifeboats and alternative life-saving appliances, such as liferafts, to fulfill the required capacity. This hybrid approach allows for flexibility in meeting the regulatory requirements while considering the unique characteristics and constraints of the ship. The number and capacity of liferafts are determined based on the shortfall in lifeboat capacity, ensuring that all passengers and crew members have access to a suitable life-saving appliance.

It is important for cruise ship operators to work closely with ship designers, naval architects, and regulatory bodies to determine the optimal lifeboat requirements based on the size and type of their vessels. This collaborative approach ensures that industry standards and regulations are met while considering the specific characteristics and operational needs of each cruise ship.

By carefully considering the size and type of cruise ships, and working within the guidelines set forth by regulatory bodies, cruise operators can provide a safe and secure environment for their passengers, ensuring that they can enjoy their cruise experience with peace of mind.

Emergency Preparedness and Additional Safety Measures

Ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers and crew members is a top priority for the cruise industry. In addition to meeting the standard lifeboat requirements, cruise ship operators implement various emergency preparedness measures and additional safety precautions to enhance the overall safety of the vessel.

1. Drills and Training: Regular safety drills and training sessions are conducted on cruise ships to familiarize passengers and crew members with emergency procedures, including the proper use of lifeboats. These drills simulate real-life emergency scenarios and provide hands-on experience in the event of an evacuation. Proper training ensures that everyone knows their roles and responsibilities during an emergency, promoting a more efficient and organized response.

2. Advanced Lifeboat Technologies: Cruise ship operators continuously invest in advanced lifeboat technologies to improve safety and ease of use. Modern lifeboats are equipped with innovative features such as self-inflating systems, automatic launching mechanisms, and improved stability in rough sea conditions. These advancements enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of lifeboat operations, increasing the chances of a successful evacuation.

3. Enhanced Communication Systems: Reliable communication systems are crucial in emergency situations. Cruise ships are equipped with state-of-the-art communication systems that allow for prompt and effective communication between the bridge, crew members, and passengers. This enables swift response and coordination during evacuations, increasing the overall safety of everyone on board.

4. Alternative Evacuation Methods: In addition to lifeboats, cruise ships may deploy alternative evacuation methods to ensure the safe evacuation of passengers and crew. These methods can include the use of liferafts, marine evacuation systems (MES), or other inflatable devices designed for emergency situations. These alternatives provide additional options and flexibility in emergency scenarios, accommodating a larger number of individuals if the capacity of lifeboats is insufficient.

5. Emergency Response Teams: Cruise ships have dedicated emergency response teams composed of trained crew members who are responsible for managing crisis situations. These teams are equipped with the necessary expertise to handle various emergency scenarios, including lifeboat operations. Their presence ensures a swift and coordinated response, minimizing panic and ensuring the safety of all individuals on board.

6. Regular Safety Inspections: Cruise ships undergo rigorous safety inspections, both internally by the cruise operators and externally by regulatory bodies. These inspections evaluate the condition of lifeboats and other life-saving equipment, ensuring that they are in proper working order and compliant with safety regulations. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to guarantee the readiness and effectiveness of lifeboats in case of an emergency.

Cruise ship operators are committed to meeting and exceeding safety standards to safeguard the lives of passengers and crew members. By implementing comprehensive emergency preparedness measures and additional safety precautions, they strive to create a secure environment for everyone on board, ensuring that the cruise experience is enjoyable and worry-free.

Case Studies of Cruise Ship Lifeboat Configurations

Examining case studies of cruise ship lifeboat configurations provides valuable insights into the practical implementation of lifeboat requirements and the measures taken by cruise operators to ensure passenger safety.

1. Oasis-class Ships: Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships are among the largest cruise ships in the world, with a passenger capacity of over 5,000 individuals. To comply with SOLAS regulations, these ships are equipped with a combination of traditional lifeboats and inflatable liferafts. The lifeboats are stored on dedicated lifeboat decks, with several launching stations strategically positioned around the ship. The presence of liferafts ensures that the required life-saving capacity is met, providing an alternative evacuation method if needed.

2. Expedition Vessels: Expedition cruise ships, such as those operated by Hurtigruten and Ponant, sail to remote and challenging regions, requiring specialized lifeboat configurations. These vessels often carry a higher number of lifeboats due to the potential risks associated with operating in remote areas. Additionally, they may feature unique designs that allow for enhanced stability and maneuverability in rough sea conditions, ensuring the safe launch and operation of lifeboats in challenging environments.

3. Small Luxury Cruise Ships: Small luxury cruise ships, like those operated by Silversea Cruises and Seabourn, prioritize passenger comfort without compromising on safety. These ships typically have a lower passenger capacity and ample deck space, allowing for the inclusion of sufficient lifeboats on board. The lifeboats are usually located on dedicated lifeboat decks, easily accessible to passengers and crew members during an emergency evacuation.

4. River Cruise Ships: River cruise ships, such as those operated by Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways, navigate inland waterways and face different regulations compared to open-sea cruise ships. Due to the nature of their operations, these vessels typically have smaller passenger capacities and may employ alternative evacuation methods, such as liferafts or marine evacuation systems (MES), to meet the required life-saving capacity.

These case studies highlight the varied approaches taken by cruise ship operators to meet lifeboat requirements while considering the size, type, and operational needs of their vessels. Cruise operators invest in technologies and designs that balance safety regulations, passenger capacity, and operational feasibility.

It is important to note that specific lifeboat configurations may vary across different cruise lines and ships, depending on regulatory requirements, safety protocols, and the evolving nature of the industry. Cruise ship operators continually assess and adapt their lifeboat configurations to align with the latest standards and best practices to ensure the highest level of safety for passengers and crew members.

Challenges and Potential Solutions Regarding Lifeboat Requirements

While lifeboat requirements are essential for ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members on cruise ships, they also present certain challenges for cruise operators. These challenges can arise due to factors such as space constraints, weight limitations, and evolving industry standards. However, cruise operators continuously strive to find potential solutions to address these challenges and uphold the highest standards of safety.

1. Space Limitations: Space limitations on cruise ships, particularly larger vessels, pose a challenge when it comes to storing and launching an adequate number of lifeboats. To overcome this challenge, cruise operators may employ innovative solutions such as compact or foldable lifeboat designs that can be stored in smaller spaces. Utilizing alternative life-saving appliances, such as liferafts or marine evacuation systems (MES), can also provide flexibility in meeting the required life-saving capacity while utilizing less deck space.

2. Weight Restrictions: Large cruise ships have weight limitations that must be considered when determining the number and size of lifeboats. The weight of additional lifeboats can impact the ship’s stability and compromise its overall performance. To address this challenge, cruise operators may explore lightweight materials for lifeboats, as well as alternative evacuation methods like liferafts, which have a lower weight burden.

3. Evolving Industry Standards: The cruise industry is continuously evolving, with regulatory bodies regularly updating safety standards and requirements. Keeping up with these changes can be challenging for cruise operators. However, by staying informed and actively participating in industry discussions and collaborations, cruise operators can adapt their lifeboat configurations to align with the evolving industry standards and ensure ongoing compliance.

4. Incorporating Technological Advancements: Technological advancements offer opportunities to enhance lifeboat design and operation. For example, advanced launching systems, improved stability features, and enhanced communication systems can significantly contribute to the overall effectiveness of lifeboat operations. Cruise operators can invest in and adopt these technological advancements to optimize lifeboat configurations and maximize safety measures.

5. Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: Collaboration among cruise operators, industry experts, shipbuilders, and regulatory bodies is crucial in addressing challenges related to lifeboat requirements. By sharing insights and best practices, the industry can collectively overcome challenges, implement innovative solutions, and ensure the highest level of safety for passengers and crew members.

It is important to note that compliance with applicable regulations and standards remains paramount, and cruise operators should work closely with regulatory bodies to ensure that any potential solutions meet safety requirements. Continuous monitoring, evaluation, and improvement of lifeboat configurations are necessary to adapt to evolving challenges and provide an optimal safety environment for all those on board.

Lifeboat requirements on cruise ships are of paramount importance when it comes to ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers and crew members. These requirements are governed by international regulations, such as SOLAS, which mandate that every cruise ship must have the appropriate number of lifeboats to accommodate all individuals on board.

In this article, we have explored the international regulations surrounding lifeboat requirements, the factors that influence the number of lifeboats on a cruise ship, and the additional safety measures implemented by cruise operators. We have also discussed case studies of different cruise ship lifeboat configurations and the challenges faced by the industry in meeting these requirements.

Passenger capacity, vessel size and type, risk assessment, and crew training are essential factors that impact the number and arrangement of lifeboats on a cruise ship. Additionally, emergency preparedness measures, advanced lifeboat technologies, and regular safety inspections contribute to enhancing the overall safety of the vessel.

Case studies have provided insights into the practical implementation of lifeboat requirements, showcasing how cruise operators adapt to different ship sizes, types, and operational demands. Despite challenges such as space limitations and weight restrictions, cruise operators employ innovative solutions, incorporate technological advancements, and engage in knowledge sharing to overcome these obstacles.

Ultimately, the cruise industry is committed to the safety of passengers and crew members. By adhering to international regulations, conducting regular safety drills and training, and incorporating industry best practices, cruise operators continuously strive to provide a secure environment for everyone on board.

In conclusion, lifeboat requirements on cruise ships are a critical aspect of emergency preparedness and passenger safety. By meticulously considering the factors that influence the number and arrangement of lifeboats, as well as implementing additional safety measures, the cruise industry demonstrates its commitment to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all who embark on a cruise vacation.

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Cruise Ship Lifeboats (Are There Enough?)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

Cruise ship lifeboats are an essential safety feature on board any cruise vessel. These life-saving vessels are designed to protect passengers and crew in emergencies when evacuation is necessary.

Modern lifeboats are carefully constructed for optimal safety, ensuring quick and efficient evacuation in an emergency.

The capacity of lifeboats on cruise ships is a crucial aspect to consider when evaluating overall safety.

Passenger ships must have enough lifeboat space for a minimum of 75% of the ship’s maximum capacity. Cruise ships also provide liferafts for the remaining 25%.

However, it’s important to note that the provided lifeboats are often more than enough, as cruise ships rarely sail at maximum capacity.

Lifeboats on cruise ships also serve another purpose, acting as tender boats when needed. In certain situations, cruise ships must anchor away from the shore, requiring smaller tender vessels to transport passengers between the ship and the dock.

These multi-purpose lifeboats ensure cruise ships are well-equipped for routine and emergencies.

Table of Contents

Lifeboat Regulations and Standards

The  International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS)  is the main regulatory body responsible for setting standards and regulations related to lifeboat safety on cruise ships. SOLAS aims to ensure that lifeboats are adequately maintained and can safely accommodate sufficient passengers and crew in an emergency.

Amendments to SOLAS, which came into effect on January 1, 2020, included additional measures for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul, and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, as well as their launching appliances and release gear.

Cruise ship lifeboats must adhere to SOLAS regulations, which require lifeboat capacity and provisioning during drills to follow specific guidelines.

Although lifeboats are required to accommodate a certain percentage of passengers and crew, they do not necessarily need enough lifeboats for everyone on board.

Instead, SOLAS allows for a minimum of 75% lifeboat capacity, with a minimum of 37.5% of the ship’s passenger capacity accommodated on each side of the ship. Additional liferafts cover the remaining 25%.

Don’t let that number scare you. Cruise ships always have enough lifeboats and rafts to accommodate all passengers and crew members.

Cruise ships rarely sail at total capacity, so there is always ample space for guests. Additionally, most cruise ships provide more lifeboat capacity than the minimum standard. Modern cruise ships usually have enough capacity for 150% of the maximum ship capacity.

Lifeboat Types and Design

Cruise ship lifeboats are an essential safety measure designed to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew in an emergency.

There are several types of lifeboats, each with unique designs and features. This section covers the three most common types: Enclosed Lifeboats, Partially Enclosed Lifeboats, and Inflatable Life Rafts.

Enclosed Lifeboats

Enclosed lifeboats offer high levels of protection against the elements and are the most common type of lifeboat on cruise ships. These lifeboats are fully enclosed with a hard shell, providing shelter from harsh weather conditions, waves, and possible fire hazards.

Passengers and crew can find seating, life vests, and necessary survival equipment.

Depending on the design, enclosed lifeboats can accommodate a few dozen to several hundred passengers.

Enclosed lifeboats typically have built-in diesel engines, allowing them to move independently from the ship in an emergency.

Partially Enclosed Lifeboats

Partially enclosed lifeboats, also known as open lifeboats, are more commonly seen on older cruise ships. These lifeboats provide a level of shelter but are not fully enclosed like their modern counterparts.

They typically feature a partial roof or canopy to protect passengers from the weather while the sides remain open to provide visibility and ventilation.

Partially enclosed lifeboats can hold a similar number of passengers to enclosed lifeboats, depending on the design.

Inflatable Life Rafts

Inflatable life rafts are a lightweight and compact alternative to traditional lifeboats. While not as sturdy as their hardshell counterparts, they offer quick and efficient means of emergency evacuation.

Cruise ships often carry inflatable life rafts and enclosed and partially enclosed lifeboats to ensure adequate capacity for all passengers and crew.

Some attributes of inflatable life rafts include:

• Portability : Due to their compact and lightweight nature, inflatable life rafts can be stored easily on cruise ships.
• Ease of Deployment : Inflatable life rafts can be launched quickly, often with minimal assistance.
• Capacity : Inflatable life rafts come in various sizes, accommodating anywhere from a handful to over a hundred passengers depending on the design.

Boarding and Launching Lifeboats

When boarding and launching lifeboats on modern passenger ships, use Davit systems. These crane-like devices enable lifeboats to launch swiftly, even in rough seas.

During the launch, passengers and crew gather at their assigned assembly points, put on lifejackets, and board the lifeboats.

Three basic release mechanisms are used to launch a lifeboat from the davit. 

Lifeboats using an on-load mechanism can release at any point from the davit. This system allows lifeboats to be released when they are not in the water.

An on-load release allows for quick evacuation but must be watched to ensure no accidental release of the lifeboat.

The lifeboat is usually released right as it’s about to enter the water to minimize damage to the lifeboat or injuries to the occupants.

An off-load release requires the weight of the lifeboat to be off the hook. Once the lifeboat reaches the water, the weight transfers to the water.

When the ship’s weight is transferred to the water, the water pressure moves a hydrostatic piston to the up position, pushing a lever and releasing the hook.

The Titanic used a more basic type of off-load mechanism. When the Titanic’s lifeboats reached the water, the slack in the line allowed a person to release the hook attaching the rope to the lifeboat.

Free-fall release mechanisms are the most basic. The lifeboat is on a ramp and slides off the ship. It provides the fastest means of evacuation but may cause injuries to the boat’s occupants.

Emergency Procedures and Drills

Muster Station

A  muster station  is a designated area on a cruise ship where passengers gather in case of an emergency. Passengers are assigned to specific muster stations based on their cabin location.

The purpose of a muster station is to ensure that all passengers are accounted for and can be safely evacuated if necessary.

They also provide an organized evacuation means as passengers are assigned to a specific lifeboat.

Safety Drill

By law, all passengers must attend a  safety drill (also known as a muster drill)  before the cruise ship departs.

This mandatory briefing educates passengers about emergency procedures, the use of life vests, escape routes, and their designated muster stations. By participating in the safety drill, passengers become familiar with the ship’s layout and safety measures, better preparing them for potential emergencies.

Most cruise lines offer the safety drill via passenger TV for some time following the initial demonstration. Many cruise ships also provide virtual muster drills through the cruise line app.

Crew Training

Ensuring the safety of passengers and crew members is a top priority on cruise ships. To achieve this goal, crew members undergo extensive training and regular practice in emergency procedures.

They spend significant time learning how to:

• Evacuate the ship
• Launch and operate lifeboats and life rafts
• Fight fires
• Provide medical assistance

Lifeboat Maintenance and Testing

Regular maintenance and testing of lifeboats are crucial for ensuring the safety of passengers and crew aboard cruise ships. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has established guidelines and requirements for lifeboat maintenance, including the SOLAS.

The maintenance of lifeboats mainly involves checking and servicing essential components, such as engines, batteries, and other equipment. This process often includes cleaning, lubricating, and adjusting the various parts of the lifeboat to ensure proper functioning.

Additionally, thorough examinations help identify potential issues or defects that may impact the lifeboat’s performance or safety.

Operational testing is essential to lifeboat maintenance, as it ensures that lifeboats can be safely launched, maneuvered, and recovered. Crew members typically conduct these tests during scheduled drills, which may occur in various ports of call when most passengers are off the ship.

You’ll often hear an announcement by the ship’s captain before a drill.

Tests simulate emergencies, complete with alarms and the lowering and raising of lifeboats with crew onboard.

Survival Equipment and Supplies

Cruise ship lifeboats are equipped with essential survival equipment and supplies to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and crew members in an emergency.

One of the critical components of a lifeboat is its  engine , which allows it to travel and bring people to safety.

Lifeboats also carry  oars  as a backup means of propulsion should the engine malfunction or run out of fuel. These buoyant oars enable the crew to navigate and steer the lifeboat when the engine is unavailable.

Lifeboats come with a food ration as part of the mandatory survival gear. This  food  usually comprises energy-rich and compact bars designed to provide sustenance during an emergency.

Lifeboats are equipped with water supplies to keep people hydrated.

Lifeboats carry  flares  and other signaling equipment to signal for help to nearby vessels. These pyrotechnic devices emit a bright light or colorful smoke to draw the attention of rescuers and facilitate locating the lifeboat.

Apart from flares, other  signaling  devices found in lifeboats include mirrors and whistles. These tools are helpful when visibility is limited or if there is a need to communicate with other lifeboats or rescuers nearby.

Lastly, lifeboats supply essential first-aid supplies for treating injuries and fulfilling medical needs during survival situations. These first-aid kits come in waterproof cases to ensure their contents remain usable and protected from the elements.

Notable Lifeboat Incidents

On December 1, 2022, a lifeboat accident occurred on the Royal Caribbean cruise ship, Quantum of the Seas. During maintenance, the ship’s number 12 lifeboat unexpectedly detached from its davits and fell into the water. Fortunately, no passengers were onboard the lifeboat, and no one reported any injuries. However, this incident highlights the potential risks of lifeboat operations on cruise ships.

Equipment failure, lack of maintenance, design flaws, and insufficient training are common factors contributing to lifeboat accidents. In the case of Quantum of the Seas, investigators believe that the davits responsible for securing the lifeboats to the ship may have been vulnerable due to wear and tear. Similar lifeboat accidents have been reported in the past, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and maintenance.

A similar incident occurred in December 2018 onboard the Carnival Dream when the lifeboat sheered from the davit hook and fell into the water. Fortunately, no one was in the lifeboat or injured during the incident.

While the Titanic tragedy is often associated with lifeboats – or, more specifically, the lack of them – it is essential to point out that cruise ship lifeboat operations have come a long way since 1912. In the aftermath of the disaster, maritime safety regulations have been significantly enhanced, with contemporary cruise ships now carrying enough lifeboats to accommodate all passengers and crew in an emergency.

Most recently, on May 22, 2023, port-side lifeboats on Royal Caribbean International’s Navigator of the Seas detached from the vessel and flipped upside down in the water during maintenance. No one reported any injuries.

Lifeboat accidents still occur despite these improvements, highlighting the need for vigilance in safety procedures, training, and equipment maintenance. By learning from past accidents and keeping a friendly and proactive attitude towards safety, the cruise ship industry can continue to work towards minimizing the risk of lifeboat-related incidents and providing a more secure environment for passengers and crew alike.

Are There Enough Lifeboats On A Cruise Ship?

Cruise ships have enough lifeboats and liferafts to accommodate passengers and crew members. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) requires a cruise ship to have lifeboats holding at least 75% of its maximum passengers and crew. The remaining 25% can be accommodated using life rafts and other life-saving equipment.

Do Cruise Ship Lifeboats Have Engines?

Yes, modern cruise ship lifeboats have engines. The engines enable lifeboats to navigate in the water. They also provide oars and other manual propulsion methods as a backup in case the engine fails.

Is There Food In A Lifeboat?

Yes, lifeboats store food as a part of emergency supplies. The food typically consists of high-energy food bars, water, and other non-perishable items. Food storage ensures passengers can survive for a specified period, usually at least three days, until help arrives.

Is There A Toilet In The Lifeboat?

Cruise ship lifeboats do not have toilets. The only means of relieving yourself is out the door or in a bucket or bag.

Why Didn’t Titanic Have Enough Lifeboats?

The Titanic tragedy resulted from multiple factors, including insufficient lifeboats.

At that time, lifeboat regulations were based on the ship’s gross tonnage rather than its passenger capacity, leading to fewer lifeboats than needed for the number of passengers on board. The Titanic actually sailed with four more lifeboats than the legal minimum requirement.

Additionally, the belief in the “unsinkable” nature of the ship contributed to the inadequate number of lifeboats. Many believed the vessel could stay afloat for several hours before sinking into a disaster.

Surprisingly, the Titanic was designed with enough lifeboats to accommodate all passengers and crew at full capacity. However, the ocean liner’s owners thought that the lifeboats cluttered the top deck and would obscure the views of the first-class passengers.

What Is The Capacity Of A Cruise Ship Lifeboat?

Most cruise ship lifeboats can hold 150 people. However, the larger lifeboats used by Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class vessels can accommodate up to 372 individuals.

Marcello De Lio

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Lifeboats on Cruise Ships: Safety, Capacity, and Amenities

Lifeboats on Cruise Ships: The brightly colored lifeboats on the sides are immediately noticeable to anyone who has ever taken a cruise or seen one. And if you’re anything like me, you undoubtedly have a lot of inquiries concerning lifeboats on cruise ships.

I mean, are lifeboats available to accommodate everyone? What is the capacity of the lifeboat? Will the lifeboats on a cruise save your life in an emergency?

You’d be glad to hear that lifeboats for cruise ships have advanced significantly and are now extremely well-designed in the extremely (very!!) unlikely case of an emergency.

If you’re curious about lifeboats or worried about your safety, you might have more questions. How dependable are the tiny boats? Which supplies are transported on board? Are there restrooms available?

To make you feel secure and comfortable when embarking on your next trip, here are the most important things to know about cruise ship lifeboats.

How does a lifeboat look?

The orange or yellow watercraft that line the ship’s sides are known as lifeboats. Many cruise ships have two major types of lifeboats: lifeboat tenders and enclosed lifeboats. Most lifeboats on cruise ships are enclosed, strong vessels with exceptional watertight integrity that can readily right themselves if pushed around by strong waves.

The two primary purposes of lifeboat tenders, which are partially covered, are to transport passengers from the ship to the land in the event of a port call in which the vessel is unable to dock and to act as a lifeboat in an emergency. Cruise ships often have just enough lifeboat tenders to run port tender service, with the remaining lifeboats being the typical enclosed lifeboats, because lifeboat tenders are more expensive to maintain than traditional lifeboats.

There are rows of seats within a lifeboat, some of which may or may not have seatbacks. Toward the top of the boat is a steering section with windows and a hatch. Enclosed lifeboats only have windows in the steering compartment, while lifeboat tenders include windows so they can see outside from their seats, according to lifeboat manufacturer Fassmer. There is no way to open these windows.

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How many lifeboats can a cruise ship typically hold?

Large groups of people can be securely accommodated in lifeboats because to their special design.

The typical lifeboat that is seen on many cruise ships has a capacity of about 150 people. In the case of an emergency, passengers can be swiftly and effectively evacuated thanks to this number.

Larger lifeboats, however, are now required due to the introduction of larger cruise liners. Because of this, lifeboats on some of the bigger, more recent ships can hold up to 370 people. It’s crucial to remember that strict safety rules and regulations are used to define these capacities.

These requirements take into account not only the quantity of seats but also the presence of vital life-saving gear inside the lifeboat, guaranteeing that all occupants have access to supplies and protective gear.

Are inflatable life rafts available on cruise ships?

Cruise ship inflatable life rafts are available for the remaining 25% of passengers who cannot fit in the standard lifeboats. Although visitors can also use rafts if needed, these are usually reserved for staff members, with guests boarding the lifeboats first.

When deployed, collapsible cruise ship life rafts typically use a high-pressure gas to automatically inflate while being kept in fiberglass canisters. Life rafts lack motors, but lifeboats do. But they are equipped with oars. Although they are less frequent on large cruise ships, stiff, non-inflatable life rafts are still available on ships.

A Marine Evacuation System, which transfers passengers from the embarkation deck to an autonomously inflated raft in the water using a fully enclosed inflatable spiral slide, may be utilized in conjunction with life rafts on more recent cruise ships.

Cruise ships include spare life rafts to cover in case any lifeboats are destroyed or cannot be lowered in an emergency. According to SOLAS, there must be an extra 25 percent of the ship’s capacity in life rafts. Additionally, lifeboats and life rafts on cruise ships are intended to deploy even in the event of a 20-degree list.

On cruise ships, where are lifeboats located?

Lifeboats are situated outdoors on both sides of the cruise ship, usually kept on or slightly above a middle deck, with an accessible outdoor promenade for people to board. This position is perfect because it’s close to a lot of public indoor and outdoor activities and services, as well as the upper- and lower-deck cabins.

Additionally, it functions well since it raises the lifeboats high enough above the sea so that they won’t obstruct the ship’s docking path or be impacted by choppy waves. However, as no one wants to see a lifeboat from their upper-deck suite or the lido pool, it keeps them low enough so they don’t have to be lowered the whole height of the ship.

Passengers should not go straight to the lifeboats in an emergency. Instead, each cabin is given an assembly station where, if an evacuation is judged necessary, they will meet up with crew members and be directed to a lifeboat. To locate their assembly station and get familiar with the ship’s emergency protocols, passengers are required to participate in a muster drill. Before a cruise ship may depart, these exercises have to be completed.

What kind of items are in a lifeboat?

The majority of the items on a cruise ship lifeboat are listed below, however it’s not all-inclusive, per the LSA:

• Enough fuel to travel at 6 knots for at least a full day (24 hours)
• 48 hours’ worth of anti-seasickness medication per person
• 2 seasickness bags per person
• 3 liters of fresh water per person
• 2,390 calories’ worth of food rations per person
• Life jackets
• Enough thermal protective aid suits for 10% of the lifeboat’s capacity
• Three can openers
• First aid supplies
• Buoyant oars
• Illuminated compass
• Hand and parachute flares
• Smoke signals
• Survival manual
• One whistle
• One jackknife
• One searchlight that can work continuously for at least three hours
• Portable fire extinguishing equipment
• Fishing gear
• Tools to repair the engine

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Exist restrooms aboard lifeboats?

The 370-person catamaran lifeboats that are utilized on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships are equipped with restrooms, while traditional 150-person lifeboats do not.

What additional specifications apply to lifeboats on cruise ships?

According to SOLAS, lifeboats on cruise ships have to be constructed from noncombustible and flame-retardant materials. Fiberglass is typically used to make lifeboats nowadays. Every seat in the lifeboat must be able to support a person weighing at least 220 pounds. Furthermore, the lifeboats and the cables that raise and lower them need to be strong enough to enable the lifeboat to be lowered to its maximum depth.

How do lifeboats undergo testing?

Water weights are used in lifeboat testing during the production process to simulate the weight of passengers at different locations throughout the vessel. These water weights have remote pumps that fill and empty them with water. During the testing phase, they are positioned throughout the lifeboat to collect data on how the craft would manage passenger weight in various settings and circumstances.

The testing and inspections continue even after a lifeboat is delivered to the shipyard for installation on a vessel. Like any equipment, lifeboats may experience wear and tear and degradation over time due to weather, time, and use during the cruise ship’s lifetime. For this reason, SOLAS stipulates that lifeboat training and inspections must occur regularly.

To keep their knowledge of lifeboat operations up to date, members of the cruise crew participate in frequent training as well as weekly and monthly lifeboat inspections.

Every year, a more comprehensive check is conducted, either by an inspector from the lifeboat maker or by a qualified lifeboat technician from a different business. The International Maritime Organization states that an inspection of five crucial elements is a part of this process:

• The hull is inspected for cracks, damage or other defects.
• The propulsion system, including the engine, is inspected to ensure it’s in good working condition. The cooling, exhaust and fuel systems are also examined.
• The electrical system, including the battery, charging, lighting and communications systems, are checked for defects or malfunctions.
• The maneuvering system is inspected, including the steering mechanism, the rudder and other steering gear.
• Lifeboat equipment, such as life jackets and survival equipment, is examined to ensure it’s in good condition.
• The davit and winch system, including the winch and wire ropes, are checked for defects or damage.
• The lifeboat undergoes a load test to ensure that it can withstand its maximum weight of crew and passengers.

During the inspection, any systems or equipment that are discovered to have flaws or shortcomings are either replaced or rectified.

It is highly unlikely that any cruiser will ever experience a situation that necessitates lifeboat evacuation. Nevertheless, knowing that your ship is equipped with safety features will ease your worry when you embark on your next trip.

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Do Cruise Ship Lifeboats Have Enough Space For Everyone?

The New York Times records that approximately 16 ships were sunk between 1980 and 2012. One of the most tragic accidents on sea happened in 1994 when the Estonia ship sank in the Baltic Sea, leading to the loss of more than 800 lives. Cruise ship lifeboats can transport people to the mainland, thus preventing such tragic accidents. But can they accommodate everyone on board?

According to SOLAS, i.e., the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), a cruise ship should have lifeboats that can accommodate 75% of passengers and crew members. The lifeboats are positioned on both sides, with 37.5% capacity each. The life rafts should accommodate the remaining percentage of inflatable life rafts. 

Cruise ship lifeboats can help save lives when ships develop technical issues, collide with icebergs and start sinking. Therefore, all ships should have enough lifeboats and life rafts to ferry people to safety. If you plan to go onboard a cruise ship , go through this article to learn about lifeboats and safety on cruise ships. 

What Are Lifeboats? 

Lifeboats are small boats on cruise ships for evacuating people during emergencies. Their primary function is to carry people from the vessel during emergencies and take them to other ships or the mainland for safety. 

The lifeboats are positioned on each side of the cruise ship and lowered into the water using davit systems. Unlike inflatable rafts, cruise ship lifeboats can accommodate more people and cruise at higher speeds with the help of a motor. Furthermore, they are designed with an auto-inflation system for better convenience during an emergency. 

According to SOLAS, lifeboats should ensure the safety of the people on board by having various safety features and equipment. For instance, the lifeboat should have bright orange paint with the call sign of the ship printed on it. 

The lifeboat station must be made easily accessible so that crew members can access launching guidelines and safety awareness posters. Some of the equipment that a lifeboat must have include:

• Signaling Mirror
• Embarkation or pilot ladder
• First Aid Kit 
• Food rations 

How are Lifeboats Designed?

Traditional lifeboats were only designed for survival purposes. However, modern cruise ship lifeboats have luxurious, more safety features and can function as lifeboat tenders. A lifeboat tender ferries people to the mainland if the port is not deep enough for docking. 

Generally, lifeboats measure about 7.3 meters or longer, and the seats can accommodate users weighing 220 lbs. (100 kg). The seats are located around the boat’s perimeter and are usually padded for comfort. Underneath the seats are compartments with survival equipment, and the command console is situated in the boat’s front center above the engine. 

Types of Lifeboats 

Various lifeboat types aim to provide safety for the ship’s passengers and crew members during emergencies. Lifeboats are mainly classified into open, closed, and freefall lifeboats. 

• Open Lifeboats 

These are the oldest model of lifeboats with no roof to protect the passengers from adverse weather conditions. They are typically propelled manually using oars but may also have a compression ignition engine for easier navigation.

However, it is rare to see open lifeboats in modern cruise ships as recent guidelines require lifeboats to offer more safety to their users. You can only find open lifeboats in older vessels. 

• Closed Lifeboats

Unlike open lifeboats, these boats have a roof to enclose the passengers. Therefore, they are more secure and will protect passengers from seawater currents and adverse weather conditions such as strong winds and rain. There are two types of closed lifeboats:

• Partially enclosed lifeboats
• Fully enclosed lifeboats 

Closed lifeboats feature advanced watertight integrity, and if waves topple them over, they will get upright automatically without requiring the manual support of crew members.

• Free Fall Lifeboats 

Freefall lifeboats are similar to closed lifeboats, but they apply a different release mechanism. They are placed on the ship’s aft to provide a clear pathway for free fall. Freefall lifeboats launch into the water by falling freely through a sloppy slipway. 

Due to their heavy and robust design, freefall lifeboats can sustain the water impact when dropped directly from the ship to the water. 

How Many Lifeboats are on a Cruise Ship?

As per the regulations set by SOLAS, a cruise ship must have enough lifeboats to accommodate 37.5% of the ship’s population on each side. Therefore, the number of lifeboats per vessel will depend on the total population and the maximum capacity of the lifeboats. 

• Maximum Capacity of Lifeboats 

Most cruise ship lifeboats have a maximum passenger capacity of 150 people. According to the LSA Code, “No lifeboat shall be approved to accommodate more than 150 persons.” Since larger lifeboats require less space and maintenance, most cruise ships will have lifeboats that accommodate as many people as possible. 

Some modern vessels have lifeboats that accommodate more than 150 people. For example, the Oasis of the Seas ship has lifeboats that accommodate up to 370 passengers. 

• Total Population on Board 

The other factor that determines the number of lifeboats in a cruise ship is the population of the passengers and crew members. The rule is to ensure that all passengers and crew members will have space on the lifeboats if the need arises. 

However, according to SOLAS, lifeboats should accommodate a total capacity of 75% of the total number of people on board. The remaining people would find space on life rafts that use Marine Evacuation System or the traditional davit launch system. 

To determine the number of lifeboats on each cruise ship, you can assume that all cruise ship lifeboats should accommodate 150 people and carry 75% of the total population on board. With these considerations, an 800-passenger ship will have four lifeboats while a large 4000-passenger vessel will have 20 lifeboats on board. 

Conclusion 

If ships like the Titanic had enough lifeboats and life rafts to accommodate all passengers and crew members on board, many lives would have been saved. Thanks to the SOLAS, modern cruise ships now have enough cruise ship lifeboats that offer maximum safety if an emergency arises. With such safety measures and modern technology, public members can now board and enjoy their time on cruise ships without worrying much about their safety. 

About the author

I worked as an officer in the deck department on various types of vessels, including oil and chemical tankers, LPG carriers, and even reefer and TSHD in the early years. Currently employed as Marine Surveyor carrying cargo, draft, bunker, and warranty survey.

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Icon of the Seas Doesn't Have Enough Lifeboats—on Purpose

Royal Caribbean's mighty new cruise ship reserves lifeboats for paying customers. So how would the remainder of its 7,960 passengers escape?

By Jason Cochran

January 12, 2024

Megaship cruise line Royal Caribbean is getting a lot of hype this month as it begins sailings on its gargantuan new Icon of the Seas , the largest cruise ship ever built.

And this ship is big . According to the cruise line's numbers , when  Icon is fully loaded with double occupancy (and as the hottest new ship in the cruise market in 2024, it often will be), the vessel can fit 5,610 guests plus another 2,350 people comprising the crew. That's a grand total of 7,960 souls that could be on board, but if guests squeeze additional kids into their cabins, the number would go higher.

Yet despite the Icon 's never-before-attempted size, it has only 17 lifeboats, each of which can contain a maximum of 450 people. That falls short of the total number of possible passengers who will require evacuation in the event of an emergency.

What the hey?

Icon of the Seas may be getting a lot of comparisons to the Titanic (which was five times smaller), but is the new ship sailing into a similar danger zone because of a shortage of lifeboats?

Rest easy, me swabbies. Icon of the Seas has not excused itself from full safety compliance. International maritime rules agreed upon in 1974  by the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) require the safe evacuation of everyone within 30 minutes, regardless of a ship's size. 

So how would Icon manage to get every individual off the ship in an emergency without handing out swimsuits?

This way: Not everyone on board would use traditional lifeboats, which would take up too much deck space.  

Icon of the Seas , like an increasing number of vessels, is also equipped with what the maritime industry terms a Marine Evacuation System  (MES). When a signal to abandon ship is issued by the bridge, MES systems deploy escape tubes over a ship's sides. Escaping passengers make their way down the tubes using an internal ladder system and descend into rafts that are capable of fully inflating within 90 seconds.

Here's a video from 2018 that shows such a deployment in action.

"Captain Corey," who covers the mainstream cruising industry on YouTube , reports that only crew members of the Icon of the Seas  will be assigned to the MES escape tubes, which can be physically difficult to navigate without prior training.

All customers of the cruise line, including children, seniors, and travelers with mobility concerns, are always assigned spaces on the traditional, familiar, hard-sided lifeboats ( Icon 's  were made in China and installed in Finland in May 2023). So as long as all paying passengers stick to their assigned lifeboats amid the chaos of catastrophe, Icon guests should be able to flee the most traumatic moment of their lives in relative comfort.

Captain Corey calls the evacuation situation the ship's "dark secret," but we wouldn't agree that the info has been kept from the public. In fact,  Icon 's MES system has been previously discussed in the press . YouTube tends to reward clickbait language, though. But if you can peer past the mirage of scandal, the video is worth checking out to watch actual footage of an MES system like the one aboard  Icon of the Seas .

MES systems have been around since the 1970s , and have been improving ever since. Now they even pass muster, if that's the phrase, with the lawyers of Royal Caribbean.

Would the system work as intended if nearly 8,000 humans needed to scramble off a ship during a disaster? We hope we'll never have to find out.

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Do Cruise Ships Have Enough Lifeboats For All? No, But…

If you’re planning a cruise trip, you may wonder if cruise ships have enough lifeboats for all passengers and crew in case of an emergency.

The answer is not a simple yes or no; rather, it depends on a few factors.

Do Cruise Ships Have Enough Lifeboats?

According to maritime safety regulations, cruise ships must have enough lifeboats and life rafts to accommodate at least 75% of the maximum capacity of people on board, including passengers and crew. The remaining 25% can be accommodated in life rafts.

Lifeboats that accommodate up to 37.5% of crew and passengers should be placed on either side. So, lifeboats to accommodate 70% of the total guests + crew is mandatory.

Now you may be wondering about the remaining 25 percent.

As per the maritime safety regulations, for the remaining 25 percent, there will be enough life rafts.

As per the guidelines of IMO , a cruise ship should have life rafts that could accommodate more than the remaining 25%.

How Many Lifeboats Are On A Cruise Ship?

The number of lifeboats on a cruise ship can vary greatly depending on the size and passenger capacity of the vessel. Here are some typical numbers of lifeboats:

• Small ships (up to 250 passengers): 2-4 lifeboats
• Mid-size ships (250-1000 passengers): 6-8 lifeboats
• Large ships (1000-4000 passengers): 8-16 lifeboats
• World’s largest ships (5000+ passengers): 20+ lifeboats

In addition to lifeboats, cruise ships have numerous inflatable life rafts that can be quickly deployed in an emergency.

Some examples of lifeboat numbers on real cruise ships:

• Carnival Vista (4000 passengers): 20 lifeboats
• Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas (6000 passengers): 18 mega lifeboats
• Norwegian Bliss (4000 passengers): 16 lifeboats
• Disney Fantasy (4000 passengers): 14 lifeboats

The total lifeboat capacity should be at least 75% of the total guests + crew count.

The number, size, and capacity of lifeboats are determined by international maritime regulations and the ship’s dimensions and layout.

Cruise lines work closely with regulators to ensure each new ship meets or exceeds the latest safety standards.

How Many People Can Fit In a Cruise Ship Lifeboat?

When it comes to cruise ship safety, lifeboats are an essential part of the equation. But how many people can fit in a lifeboat?

According to the  LSA Code , most cruise lines use lifeboats designed to accommodate the maximum possible number of people. This means that the number of people who can fit in a lifeboat will depend on size.

The number of people each lifeboat can hold varies by cruise line and specific boat model. But most cruise ship lifeboats have a capacity of between 150 to over 300 people.

Lifeboats are configured with extended bench seating and have low ceilings to accommodate as many passengers as possible.

For example, Royal Caribbean’s lifeboats have a capacity of 155 to 370 people. So on a ship like Symphony of the Seas with 18 boats , the total lifeboat capacity is around 6,660 people. This helps provide emergency evacuation for most of the ship’s total passengers and crew.

Life Rafts Vs. Life Boats

What’s the difference between lifeboats and life rafts on cruise ships? And why do ships have both?

Lifeboats are hard-shell boats with enclosed cabins that can be launched and operated independently of the ship.

They contain supplies, an engine, navigation equipment, and sometimes basic facilities like water and bathrooms.

Lifeboats allow passengers to evacuate the cruise ship and get fully clear of any hazards while waiting for rescue.

Life rafts are lighter inflatable crafts without engines. They require launching equipment and lines to lower them into the water from the cruise ship.

Rafts are temporary habitats until passengers can transfer to lifeboats or be rescued. Due to their small storage footprint, inflatable rafts maximize survival craft capacity on board cruise ships.

Having lifeboats and rafts provides cruise ships with versatile, redundant survival capacity tailored for different emergencies.

Lifeboats allow immediate evacuation and complete separation from the ship. Life rafts offer accessible capacity for more passengers during a rapid evacuation.

What is The Requirement for Lifeboats on a Cruise Ship?

To sail legally, cruise ships must meet specific safety requirements for lifeboats mandated by international maritime regulations.

The primary guideline is the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea ( SOLAS ) overseen by the International Maritime Organization.

Under SOLAS, cruise ships must carry enough lifeboats to accommodate at least 37.5% of the total number of people on board.

So on a ship with 4,000 passengers and crew, for example, lifeboat capacity must be for at least 1,500 people.

Ships built or converted after 1986 are required to accommodate at least 75% of people on board between lifeboats and life rafts combined. So modern cruise ships’ total survival craft capacity is greater than the pure lifeboat requirement.

These SOLAS lifeboat requirements provide an important emergency evacuation minimum for the massive populations onboard cruise ships. But as we’ll see next, some industry experts argue even more capacity is needed.

How Many Lifeboats Are Needed on a Cruise Ship?

Do current regulations requiring enough lifeboats for 37.5-75% of passengers provide adequate safety?

According to some maritime safety advocates, cruise ships should have enough lifeboats for 100% or more of the people on board.

The reasoning is straightforward – during an emergency evacuation like a sinking , having the capacity to get every single person safely off the ship as quickly as possible should be the goal.

Partial coverage leaves the risk of some passengers being left behind if total evacuation is needed.

But cruise lines argue that having lifeboats for 100% or more of passengers is unrealistic. Modern cruise ships already dedicate large amounts of deck space to existing boats and rafts.

Fitting enough to accommodate all passengers would require nearly the entire outer deck, leaving little room for pools, lounges, and other amenities that guests expect.

Where are the lifeboats on a cruise ship?

On cruise ships, lifeboats are mounted on davits or mechanical arms on open decks for quick deployment.

Typically, lifeboats are located on upper decks near lifevest stations and embarkation areas. This allows easy access for passengers during an emergency evacuation.

You can identify lifeboat locations on a cruise ship by color-coding and numbering. The boats are usually painted bright orange, and each boat will have a visible number displayed on both sides of the bow.

Lifeboats are positioned on the ship’s outer port and starboard sides for maximum launching stability.

Usually, boats are spaced evenly apart from each other along the length of the deck. On larger ships, lifeboats may be located on multiple available outer decks to provide capacity for more passengers.

Next time you take a cruise, check out a deck plan to see where lifeboats are located. Look for bright orange boats aligned along open areas of the outer decks. Knowing how to find lifeboats can help you get oriented in an emergency.

Do cruise ship lifeboats have engines?

Yes, cruise ship lifeboats are equipped with inboard diesel engines to provide self-powered propulsion. Having independent powered engines allows lifeboats to rapidly move away and maneuver independently from the cruise ship after being launched.

Lifeboat engines are typically at least 30-50 horsepower. The engine power can reach up to 115 HP on some larger lifeboats. Powerful engines ensure lifeboats can overcome wind and waves to evacuate even under poor sea conditions successfully.

In addition to the main drive engine, lifeboats also have a smaller generator engine. This provides power for electrical systems like radios, lighting, ventilation fans, and water pumps.

Cruise ship crew members are trained to maintain lifeboat engines and test them regularly. The engines need to be ready to start instantly and operate reliably in an emergency to deliver passengers to safety.

With robust powerplants, lifeboats provide crucial escape mobility if a cruise ship is endangered.

Is there food on a lifeboat?

Lifeboats on cruise ships contain emergency provisions to sustain passengers while awaiting rescue.

According to maritime safety requirements, each lifeboat must carry fresh water and 7 days of food rations for the maximum number of people on board.

Typical lifeboat food rations include high-calorie survival items like dried biscuits, energy bars, crackers, tinned fish, meat, and fruits. Drinking water is stored in sealed containers.

Lifeboat food supplies provide critical nourishment during an emergency evacuation at sea when quick rescue is not guaranteed.

In addition to food and water, lifeboats also contain basic emergency equipment. This includes first aid kits, signal flares, flashlights, whistles, thermal blankets, rain gear, seasickness medication, and sanitation/hygiene supplies.

While no one hopes to ever rely on lifeboat rations, it’s reassuring to know cruise ship lifeboats are stocked with essentials to aid survival for multiple days if needed.

Do cruise ship lifeboats have toilets?

Typically, lifeboats on cruise ships do not have integrated toilet facilities. Using the restroom is one of the more challenging realities if passengers end up needing lifeboat evacuation for an extended time.

However, some larger lifeboats are designed with small privacy curtains and basic portable toilet buckets. This allows for makeshift human waste management without an installed marine head.

For the majority of lifeboats without curtains or pails, passengers would be limited to urinating over the side or into a container if stuck for prolonged hours or days. For solid waste, passengers may need to uncomfortably do their best given the demands of the situation. It’s not a pleasant thought but a likely necessity until rescue.

While the lack of bathrooms is not ideal, including fully plumbed heads and holding tanks on lifeboats would reduce maximum passenger capacity. Tradeoffs exist between comforts and saving space for people in life-or-death evacuations. Preparing mentally and emotionally is part of cruise ship safety.

Did the Titanic have enough lifeboats?

When the Titanic sank in 1912, there were only 20 lifeboats onboard for the over 2,200 passengers and crew. This was fully compliant with maritime regulations of the time, which dictated having a lifeboat capacity for about 1/3 of those on board.

20 lifeboats on the Titanic only had a capacity of 1178 people.

But when Titanic hit the iceberg and call went out to abandon ship, there was only enough space in the boats for around half of the passengers. Regrettably, over 1,500 people were left behind on the Titanic as it sank, resulting in a huge loss of life due to insufficient lifeboats.

The sinking of Titanic sparked revisions to maritime safety laws regarding lifeboat capacity. New standards mandated enough lifeboats for at least 75% of passengers and crew in addition to life rafts

Had these updated regulations been in place earlier, many more lives could potentially have been saved on the Titanic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can lifeboats be lowered safely if the cruise ship is tilting or sinking.

Cruise ship lifeboats are designed to be launched even if the vessel is listing up to 20 degrees. If needed during extreme tilting, lifeboats on the raised side can be moved via onboard davits to the lowered side for easier launching. Lifeboats can also detach completely from the sinking ship to get clear.

How are passengers assigned to lifeboats in an evacuation?

Responsible crew members oversee loading passengers into lifeboats according to carefully planned procedures. The priority is getting boats lowered and away from the ship safely as quickly as possible. Passengers should follow crew instructions for orderly boarding and launching.

Can passengers try getting in a lifeboat if they think the ship is sinking?

Passengers should never try to board lifeboats on their own except by direct orders from the captain and crew during an evacuation. Lifeboats require proper preparation and procedures for safe loading and lowering. Attempting to take matters into your own hands can make the situation more dangerous for everyone.

Cruise ships take extensive precautions to keep passengers safe, including carrying lifeboats and life rafts.

While regulations don’t require enough emergency boats for 100% of people on board, crews are extensively trained on emergency evacuations. The probability of needing full abandonment is extremely low.

But if the worst happens, cruise lines work hard to ensure they have life-saving capacity and procedures to maximize lives saved.

Though more capacity is always better, cruise lines must find a reasonable balance across safety, regulations, costs, and customer experience.

With sound design and training, crews can successfully evacuate passengers from even the largest ships using on-board lifeboats.

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Cruise FAQs

How many lifeboats are required on a cruise ship.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• International regulations govern the minimum lifeboat requirements for cruise ships.
• Lifeboat requirements are determined by factors such as ship size, stability, and alternative evacuation methods.
• Lifeboats are strategically placed throughout the ship and equipped with safety equipment.
• Crew members undergo rigorous training to operate lifeboats efficiently and handle emergencies.

International Regulations and Standards

Factors Considered in Calculating Lifeboat Requirements

Ship’s capacity.

Number of Passengers and Crew Members

Ship’s design and structure.

• The lifeboats are designed to be self-righting, ensuring stability even in rough seas.
• They are equipped with essential safety equipment such as life jackets and emergency supplies.
• Each lifeboat has a designated capacity, based on the number of passengers and crew on board.
• Regular maintenance and inspections are conducted to ensure the lifeboats are in optimal condition.
• Crew members undergo rigorous training to efficiently operate the lifeboats during emergency situations.

Distance from Shore

Potential emergencies and evacuation plans, importance of lifeboat drills and training, types of lifeboats on cruise ships, traditional lifeboats, davit-launched lifeboats, inflatable lifeboats, lifeboat capacity and safety features, maximum occupancy, lifeboat equipment and supplies, communication and navigation systems, evacuation procedures and protocols, crew responsibilities, passenger instructions and safety briefings, emergency alarms and signals, lifeboat maintenance and inspections, regular inspections and certification, equipment testing and replacement, emergency preparedness drills, collaborations with international maritime organizations, international maritime organization (imo), safety of life at sea (solas) convention, cruise line industry associations, recent advances in lifeboat technology, improved design and stability, enhanced safety features and equipment, emergency evacuation systems, continuous improvement and safety measures, frequently asked questions, how often should lifeboats be inspected and certified, what are some recent advances in lifeboat technology, how are emergency alarms and signals communicated to passengers and crew members, what specific safety features and equipment are included in lifeboats, how are crew responsibilities divided during an emergency evacuation.

Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.

With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

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Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform. With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

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What Types Of Lifeboats Are Used On Ships?

Since the Titanic tragedy, it has been mandatory for ships to carry enough lifeboats for everyone aboard.

Back then, you could have a few open boats stored on deck. Now, you need enough capacity in lifeboats that have been specifically chosen for the vessel’s operational requirements. To achieve that, there are numerous types of lifeboat available.

Modern lifeboat designs include:

Open lifeboats

Partially-enclosed lifeboats, totally-enclosed lifeboats, free-fall lifeboats, hyperbaric lifeboats, lifeboats with a self-contained air support system, fire-protected lifeboats, lifeboat tenders.

• Rescue boats
• Fast rescue boats

Each type of lifeboat has advantages and disadvantages. Open lifeboats, partially-enclosed lifeboats, and totally-enclosed lifeboats are each designed for different environmental conditions and capacity requirements.  

Others, like the hyperbaric lifeboats, have been specifically designed for one industry. Hyperbaric lifeboats are there for an abandon ship situation on a dive support vessel where divers are living in a hyperbaric chamber on board.

General lifeboat requirements

Regardless of what type of lifeboat a ship carries, it needs to meet some basic requirements to qualify as a lifeboat.

These requirements are listed with the LSA Code from the International Maritime Organisation, enacted into law by governments around the world.

For example, lifeboats can only carry a maximum of 150 people. Testing is carried out under the assumption that each person weighs 75kg and they are wearing a lifejacket.

Having seen these “capacity tests” carried out on passenger ships, a filled lifeboat is a cosy environment. These tests were conducted with crew members, so swapping them with passengers will make it an even tighter fit. None-the-less, the boats are designed with a significant margin of safety in mind.

Regarding propulsion, lifeboats must be able to travel at a speed of at least 6kn for at least 24hrs. When towing the ship’s largest liferaft, it must achieve at least 2kn. With the exception of freefall lifeboats, you also need to be able to row the lifeboat.

As for strength, the boat needs to be strong enough to withstand loads significantly higher than those it would be subjected to during normal launching and operation. For example, impacts against the ship’s side, or a 3m drop into the water.

General lifeboat requirements apply to all boats that are classified as a lifeboat. In addition to that, most categories have extra requirements they need to meet which we will discuss in the sections below.

Open lifeboats, as the name suggests, are completely open to the elements. They offer minimal protection to their occupants.

In the past, open lifeboats were the only ones that were carried on ships. You may remember the film “Titanic”, where they showed all the open lifeboats that she carried. Titanic wasn’t unusual, all other ocean liners also carried open lifeboats at that time.

As safety has improved, open lifeboats have been replaced with other types of boat that have been designed to offer better protection to their occupants.

Nowadays, you are most likely to find open lifeboats on older, or classic ships.

Apart from the lack of protection for their occupants, open lifeboats do suffer from other drawbacks as well.

They are more susceptible to filling with rainwater or spray that falls on the deck. Not only does water affect the boat’s weight, but the prolonged submersion of parts inside the boat also leads to their deterioration.

The reduced protection inside an open lifeboat makes it harder to maintain and service machinery and equipment. It is harder to have fixed electronic communication equipment and an engine.

Despite all that, open lifeboats are still used on ships today.

A partially-enclosed lifeboat is a lifeboat where at least 40% of the boat is covered by a rigid cover, and the rest with a permanently attached foldable canopy. It provides its occupants with a weatherproof shelter to protect them from exposure.

Partially-enclosed lifeboats offer the next level of protection above an open lifeboat. The foldable canopy gives occupants protection from the weather.

They are “partially-enclosed” because they are partially covered by a rigid cover. At least 40% of the boat will be covered by a permanent, rigid cover.

“Partially enclosed lifeboats shall be provided with permanently attached rigid covers extending over not less than 20% of the length of the lifeboat from the stem and not less than 20% of the length of the lifeboat from the aftermost part of the lifeboat” LSA Code

Partially-enclosed lifeboats are common on passenger ships because they have large, foldable canopies. These large openings assist with the speed of embarkation of passengers in an emergency.

Passenger ship lifeboats need to be able to be boarded by their full complement of passengers within 10 minutes. Considering their full capacity is usually 150 people, it needs to be as easy as possible for people to board.

Partially-enclosed lifeboats also offer a small degree of comfort. When they are loaded with 150 people, having the ability to open the flexible covers is advantageous. 150 people generate a lot of heat, so it is good to have the option of creating large openings if the sea conditions allow.

When in their stowed position, partially-enclosed lifeboats offer good protection to their machinery and equipment. Radiocommunications equipment can be permanently fitted, without worrying about it being exposed to the weather on the open deck.

A totally-enclosed lifeboat is a lifeboat that is provided with a rigid watertight enclosure which completely encloses the lifeboat. They afford the maximum protection from the elements for their occupants.

Totally-enclosed lifeboats are designed to give more protection to their occupants than either open or partially-enclosed lifeboats. Their rigid watertight enclosure means that they are much better at keeping occupants safe and dry in adverse conditions.

Despite their total enclosure, however, they do not offer much protection from extremes of temperature.

The crew always need to enter lifeboats wearing clothing suitable for the conditions. In Arctic conditions the clothing required is substantial. As such, the capacity of a totally-enclosed lifeboat in Arctic conditions may be lower than the equivalent boat in other conditions.

Totally-enclosed lifeboats are commonly found on all vessels except passenger ships. The small crew on most commercial vessels means that everyone can embark within the legislative maximum time of 3 minutes.

As a totally-enclosed lifeboat provides better protection than a partially-enclosed lifeboat, they are preferred on cargo vessels whenever they are suitable.

Totally-enclosed lifeboats are inherently self-righting assuming all hatches are closed and sealed, and all occupants are seated with seatbelts in use. This means that in particularly bad weather, they will return upright if they get capsized by the weather.

Within the category of totally-enclosed lifeboats you get several variants with special features: free-fall; hyperbaric; and fire-protected. I’ll cover each of these variants in detail in the sections below.

Free-fall lifeboats are totally-enclosed lifeboats that have been designed to be launched from a free-fall davit. 

Free-fall lifeboats are designed to be boarded by their full complement of crew in their stowage position in the same way as totally-enclosed lifeboats.

The difference comes in the way they launch. Free-fall lifeboats simply release their securing hook and use gravity to “fall” into the water. They are mounted on angular rails so that the process of “falling” off the ship gives them an element of headway to help them run clear.

Due to their launching technique, they are subjected to forces and dangers that other lifeboats do not experience. They initially experience acceleration at the rate of 9.8m/s 2 while in free-fall, then rapid deceleration when they hit the surface of the water.

They are designed to land bow-first so that the boat cuts into the water, spreading the deceleration over a longer time.

Not only does the boat need to be designed to structurally withstand these forces, but it also needs to protect its occupants from them as well.

Free-fall lifeboats will have their seats positioned facing backwards so that occupants are facing the door. This means that their back is against the seat’s backrest for the most dangerous part, the deceleration. It is the same way astronauts are protected during the acceleration of a rocket launch.

The coxswain’s position is often able to rotate so that they can face aft during launching, then turn to face forward for navigation.

You will most commonly find free-fall lifeboats in locations that would require a rapid evacuation in an emergency.

On ships, this commonly includes oil tankers, gas carriers, chemical tankers and product tankers. Bulk carriers are the next most common, due to the speed that they could break apart. Then less commonly you will find them on other vessels like car carriers, general cargo ships and container ships.

Free-fall lifeboats are also common in the offshore industry on oil rigs and platforms.

Hyperbaric lifeboats are totally-enclosed lifeboats which contain an integrated hyperbaric chamber, designed for use by saturation divers living in a pressurised environment.

Hyperbaric lifeboats are a highly specialised type of lifeboat that is carried onboard dive support vessels for use by saturation divers.

When divers work in deep water, ordinarily they would need to spend hours, or sometimes days, decompressing after each dive. To get around this, dive support vessels bring them up in a pressurised pod, which connects to a fully pressurised environment onboard the vessel. Divers live in this pressurised environment rather than decompressing every time.

In an emergency, they need a way of escaping from the vessel just like the rest of the crew. As it is not possible to decompress quickly, they have their own lifeboats which are fully pressurised just like their living conditions. These are hyperbaric lifeboats.

Hyperbaric lifeboats are designed to the same lifeboat specifications as totally-enclosed lifeboats, but they have additional hyperbaric capabilities. They contain a complete life support system, designed to sustain their occupants for at least 72 hours. 

The idea is that the lifeboat can sustain its occupants for three days, during which they will be transferred to a reception facility on land or on another vessel where they can safely decompress and receive medical attention.

JFD is one supplier of these hyperbaric lifeboats, so if you want more information you can read their brochure: JFD Brochure .

Lifeboats with a self-contained air support system are totally-enclosed lifeboats which can maintain a safe and breathable atmosphere for at least 10 minutes with all entrances and openings closed.

Totally-enclosed lifeboats are great for a rapid escape from a vessel, but it can still take a little time to move away to a safe distance. If the cargo from the vessel is burning, there could be a toxic atmosphere which a lifeboat needs to safely navigate through.

This is where lifeboats with a self-contained air support system come in. They are designed to keep the air inside the boat safe and breathable while it navigates to a safe location.

Their openings have an airtight seal against the environment so that the toxic atmosphere does not get inside.

With the boat sealed, the self-contained air support system maintains an air pressure slightly above that of the atmosphere outside. This ensures any gaps that are not completely airtight result in air escaping the boat rather than toxic air entering.

The self-contained air supply has a capacity for at least 10 minutes of operation. Within 10 minutes, the boat should be able to steam through anything toxic and get its occupants to safety.

Fire-protected lifeboats are totally-enclosed lifeboats with a self-contained air support system that also have a fire protection system capable of protecting its occupants from a continuous oil fire for at least 8 minutes.

Fire-protected lifeboats are an upgrade from lifeboats with a self-contained air support system. The fire protection element allows the lifeboat to navigate through burning oil that may be on the surface of the water.

The usual method of providing fire protection is to fit a drencher system around the lifeboat. Clean water is pumped in from underneath the lifeboat and sprayed over the solid coverings.

Its primary purpose is to keep the outside of the lifeboat cool to protect it from damage from burning oil. Effectively, the system is giving “boundary cooling” to the lifeboat.

As the boat navigates away from danger, oil on the water’s surface may be sprayed up onto the deck. The drencher system washes it straight off, and at the same time, it keeps the surface of the craft cool from the flames.

Fire-protected lifeboats are typically fitted to vessels carrying products that could ignite on the surface of the water. Oil tankers, product tankers and even oil rigs are examples of use cases for fire-protected lifeboats.

Lifeboat tenders are partially-enclosed lifeboats that have been specifically designed to operate as passenger-carrying tenders. They are commonly found on cruise ships.

In their capacity as a lifeboat, lifeboat tenders meet the design specifications of partially-enclosed lifeboats. The main difference is that they usually have a greater percentage of their surface covered by fixed coverings than regular partially-enclosed lifeboats.

A partially-enclosed lifeboat only needs 40% of its surface to be covered by a rigid cover. The rest can be covered by fixed flexible coverings.

Lifeboat tenders are likely to only have flexible coverings over a standard-sized entrance. Their entrances will still be big enough to allow the full lifeboat capacity to board within 10 minutes in an emergency.

They are also designed to offer more comfort to passengers, so there will be a lot more seating and windows. You’ll often find cushions in place, although these are usually only fitted during tendering operations.

Lifeboat tenders are certified as passenger carrying vessels in their own right. They have more redundancy in their engines and better navigation equipment than standard lifeboats. Additionally, they carry a full complement of lifejackets, which is not required on a lifeboat.

The reason lifejackets are not required on lifeboats is that everyone is expected to board the boat already wearing their lifejacket. With a tender, passengers will not usually have life jackets on unless there is an emergency.

When operating in a tendering capacity, the maximum capacity will be different from the same vessel operating as a lifeboat. Lifeboats have a maximum capacity of 150 persons, but as a tender, the capacity will be nearer to 100 persons.

Rescue boat

A rescue boat is a craft between 3.8m and 8.5m in length that is carried onboard another vessel and intended to be used for rescuing persons from the water or marshalling liferafts. Rescue boats can be rigid, or inflatable, or rigid-inflatable boats.

Rescue boats are small craft, usually launched by a single davit. They can have either an outboard or an inboard engine and are sized according to the vessel they are carried on.

A rescue boat needs enough power to tow the ship’s largest liferaft at a speed of at least 2kn. On its own, it needs to be able to steam at 6kn for at least 4hrs.

Their manoeuvrability needs to be such that they can efficiently retrieve persons from the water and marshall liferaft.

As they are designed for rescue, they need to be able to fit a stretcher laid down, in addition to 5 seated people.

Rescue boats are carried on all ships. Every ship needs one rescue boat, and passenger ships over 500 GRT need at least one on each side. The rescue boat may be substituted with a fast rescue boat instead, but that is designed for the same purpose.

Fast rescue boat

A fast rescue boat is a craft between 6m and 8.5m in length, intended to be used for rescuing persons from the water and marshalling liferafts. Fast rescue boats can manoeuvre at a speed of at least 20kn for at least 4hrs. 

Fast rescue boats must fit the same basic criteria as rescue boats. They need to be able to retrieve people from the water and tow the ship’s largest liferaft at a speed of at least 2kn. They also have the same requirement of carrying 5 people and a stretcher which is laid flat.

In addition to the basic rescue boat requirements, fast rescue boats need to be able to maintain a speed of at least 8kn while fully loaded.

With a crew of three, the fast rescue boat must be able to maintain a speed of at least 20kn for at least 4hrs.

Fast rescue craft are found on all sorts of different ships, but the main example of carriage of fast rescue boats is on passenger ships. The above image is one that I took of a fast rescue boat from a cruise ship.

Although they are not classified as a lifeboat, I have included liferafts at the end of this article for completeness.

Liferafts are used for evacuations from ships in the same way as lifeboats are. The main difference being that a liferaft is inflatable and does not have its own propulsion system.

The rescue boats that we discussed in the previous section are designed to work with liferafts. The intention is that the rescue boats can pull liferafts away from a sinking ship.

On passenger ships where there are a significant number of liferafts, powered lifeboats can also be used to marshal liferafts. Fast rescue craft will pull liferafts away from the side of the ship, then the lifeboats can take over.

Within the category of liferafts, you will find “Marine Evacuation Systems”, or M.E.S. An M.E.S. is like a liferaft, but significantly larger. It deploys from its stowage location, dropping down to the water where it inflates.

As the MES drops to the surface, it deploys a slide which is used to embark everyone safely at the water’s surface. This eliminates the need for lowering liferafts on davits as you would with conventional liferafts.

Once fully embarked, rescue boats or lifeboats are used to pull the M.E.S. away from the side of the ship to a safe distance.

What Are the Lifeboats Called on a Cruise Ship?

By Alice Nichols

Lifeboats, also referred to as life rafts or life preservers, are an essential safety feature on cruise ships. Cruise ships typically carry several lifeboats for evacuation in case of emergency.

The lifeboats are typically located on the top decks of the ship and can be lowered into the water in a matter of minutes. The name for these lifeboats varies by cruise line and type of vessel, but they all function similarly and provide a safe, secure way to evacuate passengers in case of an emergency.

On most cruise ships, the primary type of lifeboat is called a “lifeboat” or “life raft”. These vessels are usually inflatable and designed to carry 40-50 passengers.

They are equipped with oars, flares, food rations, and other emergency supplies. Lifeboats also feature inflatable buoyancy chambers which enable them to remain afloat even if they become partially submerged.

In addition to the standard lifeboat, many larger vessels may have additional evacuation vessels such as rescue boats or survival craft. Rescue boats are typically motorized vessels capable of carrying up to 30 passengers at once and can reach shore quickly in order to help evacuate passengers from the ship. Survival craft are smaller than rescue boats but still capable of evacuating up to 50 people in an emergency situation.

Modern cruise ships also often feature a range of advanced safety features such as automated man-overboard systems and satellite tracking devices that alert authorities when the ship is in distress. Other safety features include fire suppression systems and emergency lighting for dark hallways.

Conclusion:

Cruise ships must always be equipped with sufficient lifesaving equipment such as lifeboats or rescue boats for evacuation during an emergency situation. While the names may vary by vessel type and cruise line, they all serve the same purpose – providing a safe way for passengers to evacuate the ship if needed.

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Royal Caribbean shares the biggest danger for cruise ships

W hen a fire breaks out on land at a hotel or a restaurant, people can simply leave the building. That's not the case on a cruise ship where an evacuation would involve lifeboats.

That's something that rarely happens, but every cruise ship prepares for. When you board a ship, no matter how many times you have cruised before, you must see a safety demonstration and visit your muster stations (the place you go to in the event of an emergency).

Related: Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise fix key passenger pain point

The actual process varies by cruise line. Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises  ( RCL )  and Carnival Cruise Line  ( CCL )  use virtual musters where you can watch videos on your phone and then check in at your station.

MSC Cruises has a much less pleasant version of the muster drill: All passengers go to watch the safety videos in their cabins. They they check in at their muster station at the same time (which crowds people together on the stairwells as the elevators are shut down).

In addition to making passengers do a safety drill, crew members regularly drill to handle everything from a fire to dangerous weather. That's especially relevant during hurricane season — June 1 through November 30 — as high-level crew members and shore personnel are making decisions designed to maximize safety.

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How do cruise lines keep passengers safe?

Every cruise line has an operations center that tracks weather using a variety of services. Royal Caribbean actually employs two full-time meteorologists.

No matter how they do it, cruise lines prioritize the safety of their passengers and ships above all else. They also work to deliver the best weather experience possible.

Sometimes, that's as simple as sailing a route away from rain. When you are sailing from Florida to the Caribbean the actual distances sailed are relatively small. 

That gives the cruise lines a lot of flexibility to avoid bad weather and still make their port stops. In some cases, however, cruise lines will change itineraries, skip a port, or even sail someplace that was not anywhere close to the original plan.

It's not wildly uncommon for a sailing from New York to the Caribbean to be diverted to New England and Canada in certain weather situations. A cruise ships departure or return can also be delayed for weather-related reasons.

Cruise lines don't like changing plans as they know passengers have booked excursions, planned travel, and made other arrangements. Still, their most important job is keeping passengers, crew, and their ships safe.

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What is Royal Caribbean most worried about?

Royal Caribbean Group Chief Meteorologist Craig Setzer has been busy as this hurricane season has started early and is expected to be one of the biggest ones ever.

Mark Sudduth of Hurricane Track interviewed Setzer on a YouTube series called Hurricane U. Setzer, who has been working for Royal Caribbean for about 10 months, called tracking all the moving pieces involved in keeping the cruise line's ships safe during inclement weather "slow moving chess." 

• You can watch the interview here .

"You're anticipating, where's the storm going to be? Where's my ship going to be? What am I going to do with my ship?" the Royal Caribbean Blog reported.

Trackable weather events, Setzer shared, can be avoided or at least ships can be positioned where the impact will be lessened. The biggest danger, he shared, are "unforeseen weather events."

These are storms and other weather-related issues that don't show up on models. 

"These events can be a microburst of air or a gust front of wind that wasn't visible on the forecast," Matt Hochberg wrote on the Royal Caribbean Blog, which is not affiliated with the cruise line.

Most of the time, however, Setzer and his team are well ahead of the weather.

"You're not going to be impacted [by a hurricane] on a cruise ship because we're getting away quickly," Setzer said."The one thing that might happen is your itinerary might change."

Related: Get the best cruise tips, deals, and news on the ships from our expert cruiser

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This New Cruise Lets You Spend the Rest of Your Life on a Ship

Villa Vie Residence’s new “Endless Horizons” program offers unlimited cruises.

Courtesy of Villa Vie Residences

Want to spend the rest of your life on a cruise ship? It may sound like a fantasy, but a new residential cruise line is making this dream a reality.

For a one-time fee, travelers can enjoy unlimited lifetime cruises through Villa Vie Residence’s new “ Endless Horizons ” program. For $299,999 for a solo cabin or $499,999 for a double, travelers can live out the rest of their days in comfort while sailing around the world .

“This is more than just a travel opportunity, it's a new way of life,” Mikael Petterson, chief executive officer of Villa Vie Residences, said in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure . “For less than the price of an average home, you can secure a lifetime of experiences."

This summer, Villa Vie Residences is slated to launch a perpetual world cruise that will circumnavigate the globe every 3.5 years. During that time, the cruise will visit all seven continents, with stops scheduled at more than 425 ports in 147 countries.

Kasper Willow Nissen/Courtesy of Villa Vie Residences

Through the “Endless Horizons” program, travelers get guaranteed access to a cabin with an ocean view aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey , a recently refurbished ship that can accommodate up to 924 guests. The one-time fee also includes high-speed Starlink internet service, meals and snacks, select shore excursions, laundry, and access to the ship’s pool and fitness center, among other perks.

Guests can stay on the ship for as long as they’d like. But they can also hop off for extended periods, so long as they give 30 days' notice before rejoining the sailing. And they can invite friends and family to join them for $129 per day.

There’s no age requirement for the package, though the company expects “Endless Horizons” to be particularly appealing to retirees.

"One aspect most people nearing retirement age are concerned about is ongoing living expenses and the possibility of outliving their savings," Kathy Villalba, Villa Vie Residences’ chief operating officer, said in a statement. "This program eliminates that concern altogether while offering the ultimate dream: exploring every corner of the world by sea."

If you’re not quite ready to commit to a lifetime of cruising , Villa Vie Residences also offers pay-as-you-go segments that range from 35 to 120 days long—for instance, you could join a 69-day journey from Sydney to Bali or a 51-day voyage through India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia.

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Shocking moment cameras captured woman falling off cruise ship before being found alive in water

The woman treaded water for 90 minutes before she was finally saved.

Jess Battison

Warning: This article contains graphic content which some readers may find distressing

The shocking moment a woman fell off a cruise ship before being found alive in the water was captured on camera.

It’s pretty rare that someone falls from one of the big boats out at sea and lives to tell the tale. But Sarah Kirby is one of the few lucky ones after she fell from a ship back in October 2012.

The woman was celebrating her 30 th birthday back in October 2012 when she went onto the stateroom’s balcony on the first night.

She told Inside Edition: “I remember leaning back to look out at the ship and then falling.”

Then, as the harrowing clip shows, Kirby dropped two stories before ‘ricocheting off a lifeboat’ and plummeting another five stories into the pitch-black sea below.

Footage from infrared cameras show her figure tumbling and falling along the side of the ship.

BLOKE LIVING ON CRUISE SHOWS HOW MUCH IT COSTS A YEAR

TERRIFYING REALITY OF CRUISES AT NIGHT PUTS PEOPLE OFF

The survivor remembers feeling ‘pure terror’ as she saw the ship sailing off.

“I felt hopeless. Helpless and hopeless. It’s pitch black out there. There's no land. No lights,” she described. Kirby ended up being pretty battered and injured after she managed to tread water for reportedly 90 minutes until she was rescued.

“I kept praying to God, please don't let me die, please don't let something eat me like a shark,” she added, noting that she was bleeding into the water.

When she was rescued, passengers captured the lifeboat lowering into the ocean to collect her as Kirby was ‘crying and sobbing’ over finally being saved.

The woman admitted to being drunk on the night of celebrating before she horrifically tumbled down from the balcony.

Her friend was so overwhelmed by her appearance after being saved that she cried.

“She didn’t look the same,” her friend and fellow passenger Rebecca explained. “Her face was five times the normal size.”

When Kirby was plucked out of the dark waters and rescued by the staff, the cruise director made an announcement for the ship: “Folks I have some very good news.

“We have found the guest. We have pulled her from the water and we are now bringing her back aboard the vessel.”

YouTube viewers were shocked by the footage as they say they ‘just died 4 times by imagining it’. Others called it ‘one of the scariest things’ they’ve seen as many agree they would be ‘terrified’ in that situation.

Topics:  Cruise Ship

Jess is an Entertainment Journalist with a love of all things pop culture. Her main interests include keeping up with the Twitter girlies, waiting for a new series of The Traitors and losing her voice at a Beyoncé concert. She graduated with a first in Journalism from City, University of London in 2021 and has previously worked at MyLondon.

@ jessbattison_

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