Cruise ships are luxurious and come with a lot of amenities and luxuries. But, does every cruise ship have a morgue?
The answer is yes, in fact, all cruise ships legally need to have one. A morgue is a special room on the ship specifically designed to store bodies of people who have passed away while on the ship or during their travels. This is a requirement from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which regulates safety and environmental standards for ships.
Having a morgue onboard makes it easier for cruise ships to handle deceased passengers appropriately. If someone passes away in the middle of the ocean, the crew needs a place to keep them until they can reach land and arrange for proper arrangements. The morgue also makes it easier for authorities on land to investigate any suspicious deaths.
The design of these morgues vary by ship. Some may be dedicated spaces while others may be converted spaces such as spare cabins or storage rooms. Regardless, they are all designed to keep bodies preserved in case they need to be identified by authorities or family members.
Cruise ships also need to have certain equipment onboard that can help the staff in handling deceased passengers with respect and dignity such as stretchers and body bags. Additionally, there must be an official record-keeping system so that if any death occurs on board, it can be properly documented.
Conclusion:
Yes, every cruise ship must have a morgue according to international maritime laws. It is essential for allowing cruise lines handle deceased passengers properly and provides authorities with necessary documents if an investigation is required.