
When a cruise ship comes to mind, thoughts of fun and unforgettable experiences naturally follow. But beyond the glamorous outlook and the excitement of vacationers, these large vessels harbor secrets hidden from plain view. Take a peek at 15 of them.
One of the Cabins Is a Morgue

What are the chances of stumbling upon a morgue on a cruise ship? Well, it’s unlikely because the morgue cabin is quite discreetly hidden. Each cruise ship morgue is designed to hold three to six bodies, depending on the ship’s size, and body bags are available too. But don’t worry—the morgue rarely gets filled up.
Secret Staff-Only Areas

Beneath the cruise ship is a reserved area for the staff. You’d be amazed to know it is a big community hidden from sight. This area consists of shops, a laundry facility, and crew quarters, all set aside for those working behind the scenes to ensure your trip remains fun with no mishaps.
The Secret Hangout Area at the Ship’s Funnel

Want to get some alone time outside of your assigned cabin? There is a secret hangout area by the funnel of most cruise ships. This secluded area is spacious and reserved, ideal for alone time and relaxation with your partner away from the noise of other guests. Watching the sunset from this place is something you should experience.
Sometimes the Cabins Are Overbooked

A cruise ship can hold anywhere from 150 to 3000 people, depending on its size and purpose. Cruise lines often overbook to ensure there are no empty rooms if someone doesn’t show up. But guess what? Sometimes everyone shows up, and allocation becomes a problem, leading to the turning away of some.
Tucked-Away Spots Where Breakfast Is Served

Apart from the main buffet area which is usually crowded during the mornings, there are hidden cafes and restaurants on the ship where you can have breakfast. Instead of waiting out the queue or going to brunch where there are fewer people, you can discover these places and sneak in.
Hidden CCTV Cameras

The crew members, especially those on the surveillance team, know everything happening on board the ship. This is made possible by a network of CCTV cameras on the cruise ship that even though guests are aware of, do not know the location and the camera’s range.. The cameras ensure that adequate security is maintained for passengers throughout their vacation.
There Is Special Security Onboard

Not everyone who is not a guest is a member of the hospitality staff; some of them are security personnel. Cruise liners have special security on plain clothes that patrol the ship from time to time, monitoring each activity. The team works with port authorities to ensure guests are secured, and hand over suspects to be prosecuted.
Your Room Could Be Searched If You Are a Suspect

It is not like security to infringe on your privacy so you don’t have to worry about privacy invasions. Searches are only conducted if there are specific suspicions of illegal activities in your cabin, and these are carried out discreetly without notifying the occupants.
Cruise Liners Generate Significant Profit from Casino

While cruise liners don’t try to play smart with guests, the rules and odds of casino games are generally made to favor the house. People enjoy gambling whether they are on land or at sea, and cruise liners cater to this interest with additional services. Services such as offering shots and drinks, which might be free on land, come at a cost on the ship, contributing to the cruise liner’s profits.
Extra-Charge Coffee Shops Often Offer Free Food

Unlike what you might experience at home, many cruise ship coffee shops that charge extra for coffee also serve free food to their customers. So while you’re enjoying a cappuccino or latte, you can help yourself to mini sandwiches, homemade pastries, and other gourmet bites at no extra cost.
The Water on the Ship Is Safe for Drinking

Many find it surprising to know that there is a water filtration plant on the cruise ship. The cruise has adequate facilities installed to ensure you thoroughly enjoy your stay. In case you are wondering if you can drink the water flowing on the ship, the answer is yes. They are properly treated and safe for consumption.
Correction Room

Naughty corners are not only limited to our homes on land, there is a “naughty room” for interrogations on the cruise ship for suspected defaulters and those whose offense is not heinous. Earlier, we talked about how rooms could be searched without your notice if something illegal is suspected; if it is confirmed, you will have to go to the naughty room to be questioned.
There Are No Drink Restricted Areas

On cruise ships, there are no restricted areas for drinking. You can bring your beer or whiskey anywhere on board and enjoy it in various spots like the pool, dining areas, or lounges. This means you can fully relax and have a good time without worrying about where you can drink.
Friends of Bill W. and Dorothy Code Word

Code words are not new to regular cruisers, but for a first-timer, you may be confused about the announcement of friends of Bill W. or Dorothy meetings. Friends of Bill W. is a code word for Alcoholics Anonymous, and Friends of Dorothy is a code for those interested in LGBTQ gatherings.
The Water in the Pool Is from the Sea

The swimming pool on your cruise ship is filled with seawater. While the pool’s clarity may give the impression that it’s stored in a special tank or refilled at each port, that’s not the case. The filtration system on the ship not only ensures that you have clean drinking water but also keeps the swimming pool water clear and fresh.