While cruise ships are generally considered safe, there are still different ways things can go wrong.
Cruisers have shared undesirable situations that have happened to them, such as getting stuck in a cruise bathroom. Even more shockingly, being stuck on a ship that has lost electrical power for an indefinite amount of time.
However, risks also exist out in the ocean. That’s what one woman realized aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, calling it a “new fear unlocked.”
What Scared Her While On A Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship?
In her video, which has gone viral with over 4.2 million views, TikTok creator Megan Watts (@megansparkswatts) stares out of the big glass windows of the ship toward what look like two waterspouts far away in the distance.
“New fear unlocked,” she wrote in the video’s text overlay.
Geographical describes waterspouts as “tornadoes that form over water or move from land to water.” The publication says fair-weather waterspouts often happen at sea when a cumulus cloud and the water’s surface connect, creating a vortex.
They are usually short-lived, lasting around two to 20 minutes, and tend to move at speeds of 10 to 15 knots, or 18 to 28 km/h. Their diameter can reach up to 50 meters, or around 165 feet.
There is a more dangerous version, too, called a tornadic waterspout. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), these are associated with severe thunderstorms. They can also come with high winds, rough seas, hail, and dangerous lightning.
Are Waterspouts Dangerous For Cruisers?
Fortunately, the advanced systems cruise ships use to avoid storms make cruising extremely safe in most cases.
According to a blog post by Royal Caribbean, its crews track storms using advanced technology, satellite systems, and constant updates from weather agencies.
James Van Fleet, a broadcast and maritime chief meteorologist, said that being on a ship may actually give people more options during severe weather.
“If a storm is coming your way on land, you have fewer options: Your home is a potential target that can’t be moved,” he said. “On a cruise ship, captains can sail out of the way quickly.”
He added that having a dedicated meteorologist working with onboard teams makes a major difference because they can look at weather patterns and make real-time decisions.
Commenters Find it Fascinating
“Remember that a water spout can easily turn into a sharknado!” one commenter wrote.
Important to note: Sharknadoes are mostly fictional. One has never been recorded actually happening. However, other animals, including fish and frogs, have allegedly been sucked up by tornadic waterspouts and later fallen back down as “rain.”
Another commenter was less scared and more excited.
“Ohh Texan here,” they wrote. “I’d be fighting for a front row seat to watch the sea tornadoes.”
Someone else said the video only added to their list of reasons to avoid cruises.
“Another reason to my list of ‘why not to go on a cruise,’ they wrote. “Lol hope you was all safe!”
@megansparkswatts Excuse me, what?? @Royal Caribbean #cruise #tornado #royalcarribean #newfearunlocked #ocean
BroBible has reached out to Royal Caribbean and Watts via email for comment.