I am taking a Disney Cruise Line vacation this summer. Has anyone been on one of these, or know about the blade length limits on cruise ships in general? My daily carry is either a 4" Cold Steel Voyager clip point plain edge, or 3.5" Emerson RavenE1B tanto partially serrated (plus either a Victorinox classic or a Leatherman Micra). I know the FAA limit is 4", but most airlines have set their own limits at 3" plain edge only. I read a review of a Disney cruise that mentioned going through a security check upon boarding, with metal detector. I probably won't need a folder on board ship, but the thought of walking around without one on the island stops makes me nervous. I was thinking of getting a 3" plain edge anyway, maybe a Benchmade 705, or a CS 3" improved voyager. Thoughts?
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Cruise Line limits?
- Thread starter Raver
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I don't know anything about blade length, but I definitely recommend that you stash all blades in your luggage until you're fully checked in and don't mention them. I've only been on one cruise and that was just after my senior year of high school (one of those post-grad "booze cruises" to the Bahamas). When I was boarding the ship and going through security, the boat goons took my SAK Tinker. We were just going through a metal detector and I took the knife, my keys, change, etc. out of my pockets voluntarily, never thinking that it would be a problem. I was stunned and PISSED but there was nothing I could do about it. The guy literally told me I had just one choice, take the knife and leave the ship, or board and lose it. Well, with approx. 100 people in line behind me waiting to hit the bar and casinos, what was I going to do? Once the trip is underway, I don't think inconspicuous carry will be a problem. But during initial boarding, don't show, don't tell.
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I think a lot of these security people like to throw their weight around and get a free knife in the process. That guy stole your SAK Tinker. Any time one of these people want to take anything from me they better have proof posted or in writing that whatever I have is not allowed. Even then I get a written receipt for the item to make sure I get it back. In the same situation I would have contacted the main office of the cruise line and complained about the loss of my property and demanded return or replacement.
Jake
Jake
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Jake:
You're right, the guy stole it from me. If it were to happen again, I'd probably react differently. But at the time I was an 18-year-old punk who just wanted to get on the boat and hit international waters where I could drink like a sailor and earn back my Tinker at the blackjack table (which is did, by the way).
I still think the best bet for cruise-goers is to stash your blade/s in your luggage until you get to your room. Once there, load up and then go on your merry way.
You're right, the guy stole it from me. If it were to happen again, I'd probably react differently. But at the time I was an 18-year-old punk who just wanted to get on the boat and hit international waters where I could drink like a sailor and earn back my Tinker at the blackjack table (which is did, by the way).
I still think the best bet for cruise-goers is to stash your blade/s in your luggage until you get to your room. Once there, load up and then go on your merry way.
Gollnick
Musical Director
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When I went to Alaska with P&O Line (oh, and this is the First Class way to go to Alaska, a wonderful trip), I took my AFCK, which is my daily carry, carried it aboard, and on-board. I took a little gentleman's knife for formal events, and also took my ever-present Leatherman PST, though I didn't carry it since the major uses it sees are fixing things and opening bottles. Aboard ship, the staff fixes anything that might be broken and the staff opens any bottles that might be closed. I did use my PST to fix a broken strap on a bag, but I'm sure that had I asked, the ship's staff would have fixed that too. It was just easier to fix it myself.
Basically, I'd say that everyone is there to relax and have fun. Keep the knife in your pocket and everyone will be fine with it.
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Chuck
Balisongs -- because it don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing!
http://www.4cs.net/~gollnick
Basically, I'd say that everyone is there to relax and have fun. Keep the knife in your pocket and everyone will be fine with it.
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Chuck
Balisongs -- because it don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing!
http://www.4cs.net/~gollnick
Why do they bother with the security checkpoint if you can carry it on in your luggage? With an airline, I understand the concept, because you can't get to your checked luggage while on the plane, but this seems silly on a ship.
Would the staff freak if they see the pocket clip? I generally carry with the pocket clip, either in the right front with the clip visible when I'm wearing jeans, or IWB behind the strong side hip with everything else. I could always get something really small and carry it inside my pocket, but hey, size matters somewhat.
Would the staff freak if they see the pocket clip? I generally carry with the pocket clip, either in the right front with the clip visible when I'm wearing jeans, or IWB behind the strong side hip with everything else. I could always get something really small and carry it inside my pocket, but hey, size matters somewhat.
dogboye
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Hmmmm... take an Arkansas stone, some duct tape, and some cardboard or leather. Once you get on board, borrow one of the dinner knives, take it back to your room, sharpen it, fashion a blade guard for it, and use it as a slip sheath to carry your new knife....
OK, I'm just kidding.I am curious about how they check your luggage, though. Why couldn't you just carry a bazooka on board if they're not checking it?? So, if they are, and you have an illegal knife in there.... well?
I can't wait to see how this thread develops, even though it is doubtful I will ever find myself on a pleasure cruise.
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"Absolute safety is for those who don't have the balls to live in the real world."
[This message has been edited by rockspyder (edited 02-11-2000).]
OK, I'm just kidding.I am curious about how they check your luggage, though. Why couldn't you just carry a bazooka on board if they're not checking it?? So, if they are, and you have an illegal knife in there.... well?
I can't wait to see how this thread develops, even though it is doubtful I will ever find myself on a pleasure cruise.
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"Absolute safety is for those who don't have the balls to live in the real world."
[This message has been edited by rockspyder (edited 02-11-2000).]
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In March 98 I had the priviledge of taking my wife Linda on a well deserved cruise.
(After all she's put up with me for going on 14 years.) We boarded the Celebrity cruise ship in Acapulco Mexico. But not before going through customs. At Mexican customs I was a bit freaked out, as I had a C49(plain-edge) in my waistband and a C48 (plain-edge) with some twenties tucked into the clip deep in my rt front pocket. I also had two spares, one of each model, a Surefire 6Z and a Leatherman Wave buried in my luggage along with my camera gear and toiletries . There was a partially serrated titanium Mission MPS stashed in my snorkel gear to boot. I had chosen these blades with the advice of a well traveled friend in the firearms training industry. (One who routinely travels with knives and firearms.) I knew full well I might lose some or all of them, but I was unwilling to travel knifeless. I also wanted to see for myself just what I could get away with as far as gear selection on a trip such as this. I had some Blade-Tech literature just in case I had to try and convince any one I was on a bussiness sales trip. At Mexican customs I was lucky and got the random green light, passing without being inspected, had I got the red light they would have searched all my stuff. (now I'll never really know If there would have been problems or not.) I have flown all over the U.S. with plain edge C48&C49's and so far have always been able to pass security without problems. (The preceding does not include flying into NY. or CA.)
The cruise ship was not a problem at all, I carried the C49 openly all the time. The C48 I carried a little more descreetly tucked into my waistband or in my knife pocket on my hiking shorts without so much as a sideways look. I snorkeled with the MPS in Huatulco Mexico no problem. We toured Costa Rica Jungles with no problems then went through the Panama canal and made a port call in Cartehena Columbia, where I WAS VERY CAREFUL to conceal my C48 on our forays into the city. Knives weren't a problem at all in the Caymans. I snorkeled with my MPS and carried one of my C48'S openly. All and all I have to say It was a great experience and If your relaxed and discreet, not paranoid, knife carry should'nt be a problem.If your not sure carry it deep in a pocket or in a passport neck pouch with your passport. It may not be as readily available but its better than being knifeless in a strange place. Remember its not just a defensive weapon but a survival tool!
I'm not telling you all this to brag, but to give you my firsthand experience, take it for what its worth and decide for yourself what to carry .
P.S. It will be a while before Momma gets another trip like that.
Hope my .02 cents helps!
Tim
(After all she's put up with me for going on 14 years.) We boarded the Celebrity cruise ship in Acapulco Mexico. But not before going through customs. At Mexican customs I was a bit freaked out, as I had a C49(plain-edge) in my waistband and a C48 (plain-edge) with some twenties tucked into the clip deep in my rt front pocket. I also had two spares, one of each model, a Surefire 6Z and a Leatherman Wave buried in my luggage along with my camera gear and toiletries . There was a partially serrated titanium Mission MPS stashed in my snorkel gear to boot. I had chosen these blades with the advice of a well traveled friend in the firearms training industry. (One who routinely travels with knives and firearms.) I knew full well I might lose some or all of them, but I was unwilling to travel knifeless. I also wanted to see for myself just what I could get away with as far as gear selection on a trip such as this. I had some Blade-Tech literature just in case I had to try and convince any one I was on a bussiness sales trip. At Mexican customs I was lucky and got the random green light, passing without being inspected, had I got the red light they would have searched all my stuff. (now I'll never really know If there would have been problems or not.) I have flown all over the U.S. with plain edge C48&C49's and so far have always been able to pass security without problems. (The preceding does not include flying into NY. or CA.)
The cruise ship was not a problem at all, I carried the C49 openly all the time. The C48 I carried a little more descreetly tucked into my waistband or in my knife pocket on my hiking shorts without so much as a sideways look. I snorkeled with the MPS in Huatulco Mexico no problem. We toured Costa Rica Jungles with no problems then went through the Panama canal and made a port call in Cartehena Columbia, where I WAS VERY CAREFUL to conceal my C48 on our forays into the city. Knives weren't a problem at all in the Caymans. I snorkeled with my MPS and carried one of my C48'S openly. All and all I have to say It was a great experience and If your relaxed and discreet, not paranoid, knife carry should'nt be a problem.If your not sure carry it deep in a pocket or in a passport neck pouch with your passport. It may not be as readily available but its better than being knifeless in a strange place. Remember its not just a defensive weapon but a survival tool!
I'm not telling you all this to brag, but to give you my firsthand experience, take it for what its worth and decide for yourself what to carry .
P.S. It will be a while before Momma gets another trip like that.
Hope my .02 cents helps!
Tim
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I have been on several cruises. Carnival mostly, and yes it is the fun ship!
On Carnival and Royal Carribean I have taken a HALO II, Mini-Reflex & Cold Steel Recon Tanto and several others. I have never had a problem.
Posts included: Grand Cayman, Jamaica, St. Thomas, St. Croix, Cozumel (a bunch of times, Carlos and Charlies Rules!), Playa Del Carmen, Puerto Rico, Coco Cay among others.
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On Carnival and Royal Carribean I have taken a HALO II, Mini-Reflex & Cold Steel Recon Tanto and several others. I have never had a problem.
Posts included: Grand Cayman, Jamaica, St. Thomas, St. Croix, Cozumel (a bunch of times, Carlos and Charlies Rules!), Playa Del Carmen, Puerto Rico, Coco Cay among others.
------------------
Best Regards,
Mike Turber
BladeForums Site Owner and Administrator
Do it! Do it right! Do it right NOW!
CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW RIGHT NOW! YOU WILL BE GLAD YOU DID!
www.bladeforums.com/ubb/Forum8/HTML/001202.html
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What in God's name would you do with a Recon Tanto on a cruise ship? Break lobster claws?
Gollnick
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Oh yeah, they're "the fun ships (tm)" alright.
Before booking your Fun Ship Cruise (tm) with Carnival, you might want to check this story out:
http://www.abcnews.go.com/sections/world/DailyNews/cruise000215.html
Chuck
Before booking your Fun Ship Cruise (tm) with Carnival, you might want to check this story out:
http://www.abcnews.go.com/sections/world/DailyNews/cruise000215.html
Chuck
Good Evening Raver-
Speaking from experience here....
Managed to get a fully-serrated Spyderco Delica and a big BM AFO onto a Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines vessel during Spring 1998. The big BM AFO stayed in my luggage the whole time. In the eyes of the security staff, I looked like any other 30+ businessman out on vacation.
The security was pretty thorough for the "carry-on" section of the trip. The reason I say this is because once we were shown to our rooms, I easily could have transferred the BM AFO and carried it around the whole time.
What becomes a pain is when you want to go ashore at the different ports of call. They run you through the metal detectors each and every time you want to re-board the ship. If you're in port for a few days, the hassle-factor starts to really figure in to the equation.
If and when I have to do it again, I will take the fully-serrated Delica and leave everything else at home, including the slightly more expensive "legal" blades like Mini-AFCK's and similar.
There aren't enough "hiding spaces" in your cabins, and there aren't enough realistic concerns to worry yourself about your expensive, exotic hardware out on the high seas. The staff on these ships are primarily college kids or people looking to roam the globe...not lifelong employees. It would mean nothing to some to take a quick peek in your luggage while you're out playing shuffleboard.
If the ship (God forbid) sinks, something along the lines of a Delica would prove plenty capable until help arrived.
Just my $.02. Have a great cruise and just remember to go easy on the Midnight Buffets!
Regards,
~ Blue Jays ~
Speaking from experience here....
Managed to get a fully-serrated Spyderco Delica and a big BM AFO onto a Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines vessel during Spring 1998. The big BM AFO stayed in my luggage the whole time. In the eyes of the security staff, I looked like any other 30+ businessman out on vacation.
The security was pretty thorough for the "carry-on" section of the trip. The reason I say this is because once we were shown to our rooms, I easily could have transferred the BM AFO and carried it around the whole time.
What becomes a pain is when you want to go ashore at the different ports of call. They run you through the metal detectors each and every time you want to re-board the ship. If you're in port for a few days, the hassle-factor starts to really figure in to the equation.
If and when I have to do it again, I will take the fully-serrated Delica and leave everything else at home, including the slightly more expensive "legal" blades like Mini-AFCK's and similar.
There aren't enough "hiding spaces" in your cabins, and there aren't enough realistic concerns to worry yourself about your expensive, exotic hardware out on the high seas. The staff on these ships are primarily college kids or people looking to roam the globe...not lifelong employees. It would mean nothing to some to take a quick peek in your luggage while you're out playing shuffleboard.
If the ship (God forbid) sinks, something along the lines of a Delica would prove plenty capable until help arrived.
Just my $.02. Have a great cruise and just remember to go easy on the Midnight Buffets!
Regards,
~ Blue Jays ~
Gollnick
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Wow, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line sounds like less than a fun ship too. P&O made no search at all. To search the carry-on baggage would be silly as while I carried my camera bag aboard by hand, two large suitcases went ahead. The amount of baggage that boarded that ship was unbelieveable. I have a picture somewhere of just the piles and piles of bags waiting to go aboard. For a two-week trip, you gotta take some stuff.
Chuck
Chuck