Royal Caribbean is following Disney’s lead by becoming the second cruise line worldwide to offer families peace of mind with the introduction of lifeguards onboard all its vessels.
Starting this week on Oasis of the Seas and rolling out across the 24-ship fleet over the next four months, Royal Caribbean will station at least one licensed lifeguard at every pool on each vessel during opening hours.
Lifeguards will wear distinctive red and white uniforms and will be hired for the sole purpose of protecting ship passengers in and around the water.
In order to be qualified for the job, lifeguards are required to undergo risk prevention and lifeguard training with the industry-leading aquatic company, StarGuard Elite.
Additionally, guests will be able to view a 15-minute water safety presentation during the Adventure Ocean open house session, Royal Caribbean Blog reported.
The first of the lifeguards will be start protection guests on Oasis of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas this month.
Australia’s frequently visited Explorer of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas will receive lifeguard protection from May this year.
Royal Caribbean’s decision to improve water safety comes almost seven months after an eight-year-old boy died from an accidental drowning on Anthem of the Seas. The boy received CPR after being discovered and was rushed to the Staten Island hospital.