Cruises can be whatever you want them to be—whether that’s relaxing, luxurious, adventurous, enriching, and so on. However, the last thing you want to be on a cruise is sick, which is why it’s so important to ensure you’re careful about what you eat while you’re afloat. So, whether you’ve done a Turks and Caicos Beaches booking or are setting sail with Silversea Cruises, Princess Cruises, or Mississippi Cruise, ensure your health and safety come first by being aware of what to avoid on the buffet tables. Here are 7 foods to skip for smooth sailing:

1. Cold desserts and treats
The dessert section may beckon with sweet temptations, but exercise caution with items requiring refrigeration. Cakes, mousses, and other chilled treats could pose health risks if not kept at the correct temperature. When in doubt, opt for freshly prepared desserts or those with minimal perishable ingredients, ensuring a delightful end to your dining experience.

2. Raw sushi or raw seafood
While the allure of sushi bars may captivate your taste buds, exercising caution with raw sushi on cruise buffets is paramount. The challenge lies in maintaining the necessary temperature of 40 degrees or colder for raw foods, and buffet settings make this a challenge. Opt for cooked or grilled seafood options over raw choices to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses and savor a maritime culinary experience with peace of mind.

3. Local water
While not a food item, local water can significantly impact your well-being during a cruise. Staying hydrated is vital, especially if you’re in hot and humid cruise destinations. Drinking local water at ports of call can be risky, as it may not meet cleanliness standards. Safeguard your health by opting for bottled water, ensuring a safe and healthy hydration routine throughout your vacation.

4. Food that has been sitting out for a long time
Consider the timing of your buffet visits—foods exposed to the buffet environment for an extended period may lose their freshness and be susceptible to bacterial growth. Aim to visit during peak dining hours when the turnover of food is higher, increasing the likelihood of enjoying freshly prepared dishes and minimizing potential health risks.

5. Salad bars
While salad bars can be a refreshing option, exercise caution with items that have been exposed for an extended period. Leafy greens and perishable toppings can lose their freshness, and improperly stored salads may become a large source of bacteria. Opt for salads that are replenished frequently, ensuring a crisp and safe start to your meal.

6. Local cuisine or street food
Exploring local cuisines is a highlight of any cruise, but discretion is key when it comes to street food or local specialties. While these offerings may be delicious, they might not adhere to the same hygiene standards as cruise ship dining. Balance your culinary adventures by indulging in local flavors cautiously, avoiding any unwelcome surprises and ensuring a delightful culinary journey.

7. Spicy foods with a sensitive stomach
Spice enthusiasts, beware of the potential pitfalls of indulging in spicy cruise ship offerings. Spicy foods can irritate the stomach lining, potentially leading to nausea and discomfort. If you’re prone to seasickness, it’s prudent to steer clear of the spicier menu items, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable cruise vacation without unwanted digestive distress.