On a cruise, the top deck pool is a popular spot for passengers to enjoy the sun and ocean views. However, a little-known rule across various cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises, can restrict families from using the pool if their children are not potty trained.
Most cruise lines mandate that children must be potty trained to access the main pool to avoid any hygiene issues. If a child in diapers were to have an accident, it would require draining, cleaning, and refilling the pool, disrupting other passengers’ experiences.
For cruises departing from the USA, it is a Public Health requirement for toilet-trained children to use swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs on board. Despite these restrictions, families can still enjoy pool areas with babies and toddlers who are not potty trained as long as they do not enter the water, with dedicated splash zones available for their entertainment.
Cruise lines like Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer specific guidelines for children in diapers, allowing them access to designated water play areas but restricting them from certain facilities like hot tubs. Lifeguards and crew members enforce these rules, and repeated violations could lead to a ban from pool access.
While parents and older children can utilize the main pool, those with younger ones can explore kids’ club options for some personal time by the poolside. Stay updated on cruise news and ship insights by joining our cruise community through the Anchors Away newsletter for weekly updates.
