Cruising with a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is very doable, and cruise lines—including Carnival—are generally well-equipped to accommodate guests who need them.

Here are essential tips to make your cruise with a CPAP smooth and stress-free:

Before Your Cruise

Notify your travel agent or the cruise line in advance

• Contact the cruise line special requests team at least 30 days before sailing to request any medical accommodations.
• Ask for:
  
  • Extension cord (regular ones are prohibited for safety reasons; they’ll provide an approved one). But, consider bringing your own just in case you can’t secure one from the cruise line.
  • Distilled water is sometimes provided free by some cruise lines if requested ahead of time. However, Carnival charges about $6. You can bring your own sealed bottle with your machine in your carry on.
    

Bring a doctor’s note (optional but helpful but typically not needed)

• Some guests like to carry a brief note. The note states the CPAP is medically necessary. This is especially useful for air travel or embarkation screening.

Pack your CPAP machine, extension cord and water in your carry-on!

• Never check it in your luggage. It’s considered a medical device and does not count against your carry-on limit if your cruise line has one.

What to Pack

• ✔️ CPAP machine & tubing
• ✔️ Mask & headgear
• ✔️ Power adapter (if from another country)
• ✔️ NON – Surge protector / extension cord
• ✔️ Backup battery (optional – for power outages)
• ✔️ Extra filters
• ✔️ Enough distilled water or request it onboard (don’t assume it will be provided unless prearranged)

Onboard Tips

• Location near the bed: Most cabins have a bedside outlet, but some do not. Request an extension cord if needed.
• Power availability: You may want a multi-USB or outlet hub, since outlets are limited.
• Bring magnetic hooks to hold the cord up off of the floor.
• Avoid tap water: It may contain minerals that can damage your machine. Only use distilled water.
• Use bottled water in a pinch: If distilled isn’t available, many travelers use purified bottled water temporarily.

Cabin Comfort

• Keep the CPAP off the floor to avoid salt air or humidity.
• Wipe it down with disinfectant wipes to keep it clean in the humid cruise environment.
• Store parts in a zippered travel bag when not in use to keep them clean and dry.

Carnival-Specific Notes

Don’t depend on Carnival to have an extension cord. They have a few but very limited with them. They are now recommending that you bring your own.

A sealed bottle of water can be brought on with you.

Pack everything in a rolling bag and drop it off to your cabin immediately. If you see a cabin steward, inform them what you are doing. Just put it in a closet and leave asap.

• Request medical equipment support via the Carnival Access Department at:
  
  • Email: access@carnival.com
  • Phone: 1-800-438-6744, ext. 70025

Let me know your ship name or sail date. I can help draft a request email. I can also check your ship’s outlet layout!

Here’s a group just for new cruisers and others! No judgment with correct answers to your questions. Lots of in-depth information, tips and personal advice! 

Carnival Cruising for First Timers & Seasoned Sailors