Ocean and pool safety should be a top family, and caretaker, discussion. 

By Rachel Sokol — Here are some essential child water safety tips for cruises and pools to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Recently, a shocking incident on a Disney cruise captured national attention: a 5-year-old girl fell overboard from the ship’s fourth deck. Her father swiftly jumped in after her. Miraculously, both father and child survived; they were rescued by emergency crews and brought back onboard, where they received immediate medical care.  

Their story sparked conversations among families everywhere because it touches on every parent’s worst fear: What if your child falls into the water? Even if they’re a decent swimmer, how could they survive such a terrifying moment? Additionally, beyond swim lessons, is there anything else we can do to prepare our kids—and ourselves—for the unthinkable? 

As a mom of two young children who love the water but aren’t confident swimmers, I needed answers. I’m a strong advocate for swim lessons and water safety, but sometimes being careful just isn’t enough. 

Rebecca Weiner is the owner and founder of Aquafinz™ Infant Aquatics®, Long Island’s premier survival swim school. As a certified stroke technique instructor, she shares water safety tips and what parents can do if their child ever faces an emergency. (Of course, we all hope that never, ever happens.) 

When on a cruise, do you recommend kids wear a life vest at all times? 

Yes! “Anytime your child is on the main deck—especially near railings or around pools—it’s a smart idea to have them wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vest,” says Weiner. “They’re designed for comfort and safety, so kids can enjoy their time onboard with confidence.” According to Weiner, even strong swimmers can be caught off guard by slippery surfaces or the unexpected movement of the ship. 

Swim lessons are crucial for families. Why are they extra important when taking a cruise? 

“Cruises come with unique environments: crowded pools, open water, and sometimes rough seas,” explains Weiner. “Swim lessons build water competence and confidence, teach breath control, and promote survival skills like floating and calmly reacting in an emergency.” 

Do you ever recommend kids “practice” swimming in the ocean in preparation for a cruise (vs. a pool)—just to be extra safe? 

If the opportunity arises and conditions are safe, yes! “Supervised ocean swims are a great way to expose kids to the feel of saltwater, waves, and changing conditions,” says Weiner. “Even just walking into the shallows together and practicing floating can build awareness and confidence.” Survival skills can absolutely be taught in a pool, too. 

Why is being able to float in the water so important? 

Weiner calls floating “a life-saving skill.” If a child accidentally falls in or gets tired, floating gives them time—time to rest, breathe, think, and wait for help. “It’s a core part of survival swim and can make all the difference in an emergency.” 

How should parents warn their child that it’s very rare to fall off a cruise… but just in case…? 

Reassure kids that falling overboard is very, very unlikely—but we still practice “what if” safety, just like we do with fire drills. Weiner’s advice is to say: “The ship is safe and fun, but if you ever found yourself in the water, here’s what you can do to stay safe until help comes.’” 

What should a child do if they fall into the water? 

If they can’t swim, the priority is to float on their back and stay calm. “If they can swim, they should still start by floating to control their breathing, then tread water or swim only if necessary,” says Weiner. “Yelling or waving for help is great—but only if they feel safe enough to do so without exhausting themselves.” 

What else should parents know about cruise and water safety? 

A few things. Supervision is key! Designate a water watcher at pools and always know where your kids are. Also, take advantage of cruise safety drills—make it a game to help kids remember their cabin number or where to meet. Practice floating and water exits before you go…give your kids tools, not fear. “And lastly, stay calm, stay prepared, and have fun,” says Weiner. “Being water-wise doesn’t take away the joy—it adds to your peace of mind.” 

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