What I Learned from Watching Trainwreck: Poop Cruise on Netflix

…and How It Might Just Save Your Next Cruise

When I watched Trainwreck: Poop Cruise on Netflix, I couldn’t help but think about how many people book cruises without really knowing what to expect—or how to prepare if something goes wrong. The Carnival Triumph situation was extreme (and honestly, pretty hard to watch), but it’s a good reminder that being stuck at sea without the right essentials can turn a dream vacation into a nightmare.

If you’re planning a cruise, here are a few smart tips I picked up that can make all the difference—whether things go perfectly or not.

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1. Book a Veranda Room When You Can

During the days the ship was disabled, many passengers were stuck in windowless interior rooms with no power or air circulation. Having a veranda cabin with access to fresh air and sunlight makes a huge difference in both comfort and mental well-being in an emergency—or even just a rocky sea day. It’s not just a luxury. It could be a lifesaver. Literally.

2. Pack Your Own Medications—Don’t Count on the Ship

Most people aren’t used to eating so much food in a week. All that rich food can really add up.

When hundreds of people fall ill at the same time, ship medical supplies run out fast. Bringing basics like Imodium, Dramamine, Tylenol, and even electrolyte tablets can mean the difference between toughing it out in your cabin or being fully out of commission. You know what your body needs—come prepared, just in case.

3. Pre-Order a Case of Water for Your Room

Cruise lines often offer the option to have a case of bottled water delivered to your cabin before embarkation. DO IT. If water systems go down or room service becomes limited, having a stash of clean drinking water can make a miserable situation at least a little more bearable. Plus, you’ll always have water for excursions or late-night hydration without relying on the buffet.

4. Know the Ship’s History—Some Stories Stay Afloat

Did you know the Carnival Triumph (a.k.a. the Poop Cruise) was later refurbished and renamed Carnival Sunrise? Yep, same ship, new paint job. While most cruise lines do a great job upgrading older vessels, some travelers (myself included) would rather not sail on a ship with a traumatic backstory. If you’re cruise shopping and see Carnival Sunrise—maybe keep scrolling.

5. Back Up Power is Your Best Friend

You never know when you’ll lose access to electricity. A battery-powered fan and a fully charged portable charger can be small miracles if the power goes out. Even in normal cruise conditions, these are handy items to have for excursions or long travel days.

A flashlight with extra batteries can be helpful if the ship loses power. Hopefully, you will never have to experience this.

6. Don’t Skip Travel Insurance

Although it’s not discussed in the documentary, it’s worth noting: passengers who had travel insurance may have received better support and reimbursement. Emergencies don’t care how prepared you are—but insurance can help soften the blow.

You can read all about travel insurance in “To Insure or Not to Insure? That is the Question.“

7. Be Smart About Alcohol

Yes, you’re on vacation—and yes, those drink packages can be tempting—but in extreme heat or emergency situations, alcohol is not your friend. It can dehydrate you quickly, impair your judgment, and make it harder to react clearly when something goes wrong. If you’re out in the sun all day or if anything feels off, it’s a good idea to skip the cocktails and stick to water or electrolyte drinks. Keeping a clear head could make all the difference.

8. A Passport is Highly Recommended

Even on a closed-loop cruise I recommend to ALWAYS have a passport when traveling to a foreign country. Unfortunately, emergencies DO happen. If you have to use air travel to return back into the U.S. a passport is a must. For more information, read our other blog post “Why You Should Always Have a Passport When Traveling.”

Final Thoughts

Watching Trainwreck: Poop Cruise was both eye-opening and oddly validating. It reminded me how much value there is in planning ahead and asking the right questions when booking a cruise. While the chances of a catastrophe like that happening again are slim, being prepared is never a bad idea—especially when you’re floating in the middle of the ocean.

Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, these little steps can add up to a smoother, safer experience.

Want more behind-the-scenes cruise tips and destination ideas?

Stick around—I’ve got plenty more where this came from.

Ready to start planning your own Dream Vacation? Contact me today: [email protected]. I understand that each family is unique and offer individualized family vacation planning to help you tailor your vacation to fit your family.

Remember… Life’s Short… Take the Trip!