Do You Know What A Muster Drill Is?

Another name for a muster drill is a safety exercise that is required to take place within 24 hours after a ship sets sail. Many cruise lines do theirs 30 to 60 minutes prior to setting sail. (I like it this way to get the formalities out the way so I can then focus on my cruise vacation and seeing the world.)

A muster drill is a mandatory safety exercise for everyone on board! The purpose is to familiarize yourself (and all guests and crew) with the location, or muster station, where you would go or assemble in the unlikely event of an emergency. You'll find groups of cabins are assigned the same muster station, so there is a strong probability that your neighbors in the next cabin are in the same muster station as you. So get to know them, it will make the journey fun!

As you and all those also assigned to your muster station are quietly waiting in an organized fashion, additional safety information is presented. This includes how to put on a life-jacket (much like they do on airplanes prior to take off), where to find the life boats, and general safety in any situation onboard.

"The pre-departure assembly muster drill is a coast guard regulatory requirement and all guests must attend even if they have sailed previously."

If you need medical help and require assistance, you'll need to notify a crew member so they can arrange for you to participate in the most comfortable possible way.

Don't stress about this muster drill. Be sure to follow all instructions over the loud speaker and it will make it relatively painless. It just takes a few minutes of your time prior to departure.

Cruise lines want to give you the knowledge you need to protect you in the unlikely event of an accident when sailing on the ocean. Get this exercise behind you and look forward to your wonderful cruise vacation ahead!