What would happen if a cruise ship was struck by lightning?


What would happen if a cruise ship was struck by lightning? Cruise ships are designed to dissipate the energy of a lightning strike and keep it from entering the ship. This is done by running a grounding cable from the top of the mast down to the ship's hull, which absorbs the electrical charge.


What happens if a cruise ship breaks down in the ocean?

In calm waters, ships often can be towed safely to the nearest shore. In rough seas, other options would be considered. Abandoning ship really is a last resort, as moving passengers from one ship to another on the open sea can be dangerous, particularly in inclement weather. As is ordering passengers into lifeboats.


What happens if there is an earthquake while on a cruise ship?

While it's possible that a ship can feel the impacts of an earthquake, it's extremely rare that damage would occur, according to Dr. Thomas Heaton, seismologist and professor of geophysics and civil engineering at the California Institute of Technology.


What cruise ship was hit by a 40 foot wave?

Passengers aboard the Carnival Sunshine described shattered glass, water pouring into rooms and hallways, the ship pitching about and a lack of communication from cruise staff. Some passengers and crew members needed minor assistance from medical staff, a Carnival cruise spokesman told CBS News.


Do cruise ships rock a lot?

Generally, modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers and advanced technologies to minimize rocking and improve passenger comfort. In most cases, passengers may feel gentle swaying or motion, especially during rough seas, but it is typically not severe enough to cause discomfort for the majority of travelers.


What happens if a cruise ship gets caught in a storm?

If a storm is threatening the area a ship was scheduled to sail to, cruise lines will reroute the ships if the forecast is severe enough. While cruise ships can typically outrun most storms, passengers may still experience rough seas as their ship skirts the edges of a weather system.


Can a storm take down a cruise ship?

A possible forced stay at sea: If the storm proves too formidable, the ship may need to hunker down and ride it out at sea. A slim chance of sinking: It's an unnerving thought, but the possibility exists. If the ship takes too much damage, it could go down.


How do cruise ships avoid lightning?

Bonding and Earthing system, which is achieved by connecting two electrical conductors. Such systems usually depend on the type and size of each vessel. Surge protection system, which includes individual breakers and fuses, as well as power supply protection kits.


Do cruise ships ever go through storms?

Though your itinerary may change, cruises are rarely canceled due to storms. Ships are designed to handle rough seas and can be rerouted to avoid danger. Once you're on board, any port updates will be announced over the ship's intercom or detailed in a notice delivered to your stateroom.


How big of a wave would it take to capsize a cruise ship?

The only way that it could happen is if the ship were in extreme weather and positioned sideways to a 70- to 100-foot wave that would have the potential of rolling it over, Bolton said. I guarantee you're never going to be in those kinds of waves anyway, he said.


Is crime common on cruise ships?

Cruise ship crime is not the norm — but since it does occur sometimes, it's wise to know how to avoid being a victim. First, it's important to understand that while a cruise is a vacation, that doesn't mean crime doesn't happen.


What is illegal on a cruise ship?

No sneaking drugs or alcohol on board Contraband booze will be confiscated if discovered, and you might not get it back. Bring illegal drugs on board and you risk fines, disembarkation and jail time. You're not allowed to bring marijuana on a cruise, even if it's legal in your departure port or port of call.


What is the most common crime on cruise ships?

79% of all crimes reported onboard cruise ships are sexual assaults, as per the US Department of Transportation. This statistic is a stark reminder of the prevalence of sexual assaults on cruise ships, and serves as a powerful reminder of the need for increased safety measures to protect passengers.


Do cruise ships have jails?

Yes, cruise ships have brigs, which is the nautical term for a jail on a vessel, including a cruise ship. The term comes from the word brigantine, which is a type of two-masted sailing ship formerly used to house criminals.


How much do cruise ship captains make?

The amount of experience, the level of education, the grades they received, location, and company all can determine the year's salary. In general, a cruise ship captain salary ranges between $54,000 and more than $100,000. This may seem like a low pay scale considering the responsibilities that come with the job.