The Philippines has over 7,000 islands. This made ferry travel an essential form of transport in the country to reach coastal destinations. According to statistics, the total number of maritime passengers in the Philippines reached approximately 59 million in 2022.
Ferry travel is an affordable and convenient way to travel. It has its benefits and by paying attention to safety precautions, you can have a worry-free sea travel. To help you plan a smooth sailing trip, here’s a ferry safety checklist that you should check before your ferry journey.
Ferry Safety Checklist for Sea Travelers
PRE-DEPARTURE:
Book a Trusted Ferry Service
Ferry booking is the initial step to sea travel. Choose a reputable shipping company with a ferry service in the Philippines to ease your worries about sea travel safety.
Pack Basic Medicines
Sea travel could be a “bumpy” ride. If you or a companion tends to get seasick, take medicine for motion sickness before the trip.
Prepare Emergency Contacts
Keep a list of emergency contacts. Save contact numbers that should come in handy in case of emergencies.
Charge Your Devices
Charge your phone and power bank before the departure to ensure that your device is ready in case you need to call for assistance. You’d also want to use your phone to take pictures of the sights you’ll see during your trip.
DEPARTURE DAY:
Check Weather Conditions
On your departure day, check the weather forecast as this can affect your sea travel. In case of storms or adverse conditions, consider rescheduling your trip.
Find Emergency Exits
Once onboard the ferry, familiarize yourself with the vessel and take note of the emergency exit’s locations.
Locate the Emergency Supplies
It’s better to be prepared than be clueless on what to do during an emergency. Know the location of lifeboats, life jackets, and first-aid kits. Know the evacuation routes once you’re settled on the ferry.
Listen to Safety Guidelines
Shipping companies have trained personnel who demonstrate sea safety procedures during passenger briefings. Pay attention to their instructions so you’ll know what to do and how to use the available emergency supplies.
Secure Your Personal Belongings
Be conscious of your personal belongings. Secure them properly to keep them from falling or causing harm to yourself and others.
Supervise Your Kids
Don’t leave your kids unattended. Prevent them from wandering to avoid accidents. Do this to your fur babies too.
Stay Away from Restricted Areas
Restricted areas are prohibited for passengers. Stay away from them to avoid potential hazards.
Be Alert and Calm
Be alert to know what’s happening around you. When emergencies occur, stay calm. This will allow you to act accordingly and reach based on the safety protocols.
ALSO READ: CHELSEA TRAVEL AMASEANG RAFFLE
Sea travel can be safe and convenient when due preparations are done. Follow the safety measures shared in this ferry safety checklist for safe and enjoyable ferry travel!
Starlite Ferries is a ferry booking and cargo shipping company with vessels that ply through Batangas, Mindoro, Aklan, Romblon, Capiz, Cebu, Dapitan, Surigao, Agusan, Tagbilaran, Larena and Oroquieta. We advocate for safe sea travel by providing new boats designed for Philippine waters and its seasonal rough seas.