Does Royal Caribbean allow CPAP machines?

Traveling with sleep apnea requires careful planning—especially on a cruise. One of the most common concerns among travelers with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is whether cruise lines allow CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines onboard and how easy they are to use at sea.

If you’re sailing with Royal Caribbean, the short answer is yes—Royal Caribbean allows CPAP machines, but there are important rules, preparation steps, power considerations, and safety policies you should understand before embarkation.

This in-depth guide explains everything you need to know about bringing and using a CPAP machine on a Royal Caribbean cruise, backed by medical guidance, official cruise policies, and real-world traveler experiences.Understanding CPAP Machines and Sleep Apnea

What Is a CPAP Machine?

A CPAP machine is a medical device prescribed for obstructive sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. CPAP therapy delivers a steady stream of pressurized air to keep the airway open.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of:

• Cardiovascular disease

• Stroke

• Type 2 diabetes

• Cognitive impairment

• Excessive daytime fatigue

(Source: NIH – Sleep Apnea Overview)

Does Royal Caribbean Allow CPAP Machines?

Official Royal Caribbean Policy

Yes, Royal Caribbean allows CPAP, BiPAP, and APAP machines onboard all ships.

Based on publicly available information from Royal Caribbean’s official accessibility and special needs guidelines:

• CPAP machines are considered medical devices

• They do not count toward carry-on or luggage limits

• Guests may use them freely inside their staterooms

Royal Caribbean’s policy aligns with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) principles, which recognize CPAP machines as essential medical equipment.

Based on publicly available information, there is no confirmed data indicating that Royal Caribbean restricts CPAP machines on any ship or itinerary.

Why CPAP Machines Are Medically Necessary

Medical Consensus

Organizations such as:

• World Health Organization (WHO)

• American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM)

• CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

all agree that consistent CPAP use is critical for people with moderate to severe sleep apnea.

Discontinuing CPAP therapy—even temporarily—can lead to:

• Elevated blood pressure

• Poor oxygen saturation

• Increased cardiac stress

(Source: PubMed – Clinical Outcomes of CPAP Interruption)

This medical necessity is why cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, explicitly permit CPAP machines.

Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Your CPAP for a Royal Caribbean Cruise

Step 1: Pack Your CPAP as a Carry-On

• Always carry your CPAP onboard yourself

• Never place it in checked luggage

• Use a medical equipment tag if available

Step 2: Bring a Copy of Your Prescription (Optional but Recommended)

While Royal Caribbean does not require a prescription, having one can help if:

• Security asks about the device

• You need replacement parts abroad

Step 3: Request an Extension Cord or Power Strip (If Needed)

Most Royal Caribbean cabins have limited outlets.

Power Supply Rules and Electrical Considerations

Cabin Power Availability

Royal Caribbean staterooms typically offer:

• 110V (U.S.-style) outlets

• 220V (European-style) outlets

Most modern CPAP machines (ResMed, Philips, Fisher & Paykel) are dual-voltage (100–240V).

Important Safety Rule

Royal Caribbean does not allow personal extension cords or surge protectors due to fire safety regulations.

What You Can Do Instead:

• Request an approved extension cord via:

  • Special Needs Form

  • Guest Services onboard

Do You Need to Notify Royal Caribbean in Advance?

Short Answer: Yes, It’s Highly Recommended

Royal Caribbean advises guests traveling with medical equipment to complete the Special Needs Form at least 30 days before sailing.

This helps ensure:

• Power access near your bed

• Approved extension cord availability

• Awareness by ship medical staff

CPAP Water, Distilled Water, and Humidifier Tips

Is Distilled Water Available Onboard?

• Distilled water is not guaranteed onboard

• Availability varies by ship and itinerary

Best Practice:

• Bring a small supply of distilled water

• If unavailable, bottled water can be used temporarily

  • CDC notes short-term bottled water use is acceptable for CPAP humidifiers

(Source: CDC – Medical Device Hygiene Guidelines)

Cabin Space, Storage, and Nighttime Setup

Cabin Considerations

Royal Caribbean cabins vary in size, but CPAP machines typically fit comfortably on:

• Nightstands

• Desks

• Shelves

Pro Tips:

• Use anti-slip mats to prevent movement

• Secure tubing to avoid entanglement

• Keep machine elevated to reduce condensation

Battery Backup and Emergency Power Options

Do You Need a CPAP Battery?

Royal Caribbean ships have reliable power systems. However, experts recommend a CPAP battery backup if:

• You are medically dependent on therapy

• Sailing remote itineraries

FAA-Approved Batteries

Most lithium CPAP batteries under 100Wh are permitted.

Always verify:

• Airline rules (for flights)

• Battery watt-hour rating

Traveling Internationally With a CPAP on a Cruise

Customs and Security

CPAP machines are universally recognized as medical devices and typically exempt from customs duties.

However:

• Carry documentation when traveling internationally

• Use original manufacturer labels

Royal Caribbean vs Other Cruise Lines

Cruise Line	CPAP Allowed	Advance Notice Recommended	Extension Cord Provided
Royal Caribbean	Yes	Yes	Yes (upon request)
Carnival	Yes	Yes	Yes
Norwegian	Yes	Yes	Yes
Disney Cruise Line	Yes	Yes	Yes

Source: Official cruise line accessibility policies

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cruising With a CPAP

• Packing CPAP in checked luggage

• Forgetting power adapters

• Assuming distilled water will be available

• Bringing unapproved extension cords

• Not notifying the cruise line in advance

Expert Medical and Travel Recommendations

According to Harvard Health Publishing:

“Maintaining consistent CPAP use during travel is essential to prevent sleep fragmentation and cardiovascular strain.”

Consumer Reports also emphasizes:

• Traveling with battery backups

• Using protective CPAP travel cases

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does Royal Caribbean charge extra for CPAP use?

No. CPAP machines are permitted at no additional cost.

2. Can I use my CPAP every night on the cruise?

Yes. CPAP use is unrestricted inside your cabin.

3. Are CPAP machines allowed through cruise security?

Yes. They are treated as medical devices.

4. Will Royal Caribbean provide distilled water?

Not guaranteed. Bring your own supply.

5. Can I bring a CPAP battery?

Yes, provided it meets airline and maritime safety limits.

6. Do CPAP machines count toward baggage limits?

No. Medical devices are exempt.

7. Can I request a cabin near a power outlet?

Yes, through the Special Needs Form.

8. What if my CPAP malfunctions onboard?

Contact Guest Services or ship medical staff immediately.

9. Are CPAP machines safe to use at sea?

Yes. Modern CPAP machines function normally at sea-level cabin pressure.

10. Can I use my CPAP in shared cabins?

Yes, though consider noise levels and tubing placement.

Final Verdict: Is Royal Caribbean CPAP-Friendly?

Absolutely.

Royal Caribbean is one of the most CPAP-accommodating cruise lines in the industry. With clear medical device policies, onboard support, and power accessibility, guests with sleep apnea can cruise comfortably and safely—provided they prepare properly.

By notifying Royal Caribbean in advance, packing wisely, and following medical best practices, you can enjoy a restful, worry-free cruise without compromising your health.

Authoritative Sources

• Royal Caribbean Accessibility Guidelines

• NIH.gov – Sleep Apnea

• CDC.gov – Medical Device Hygiene

• WHO – Sleep Health

• PubMed – CPAP Therapy Studies

• Harvard Health Publishing

• Consumer Reports – CPAP Travel Advice