Allergies shouldn’t leave you stranded

Holidays for people with allergies can be challenging but for parents of kids with allergies, they can be terrifying.

Cruising with kids affected by food allergies is more than a matter of keep calm and carry an epi-pen. There can be no guarantees about not having an allergic reaction, but it is possible for mum and dad to take a break from kitchen duties – it’s all about communication. On the Royal Caribbean, this conversation needs to start 45 days before sailing, but executive chef Nicola Di Pardo will also meet you on board to discuss your fears … and ease them.

“We do not take any chances … our job is to make everyone feel secure and we find after the first few days going well, they then relax and enjoy their cruise,” Di Pardo says.

“I am notified of guests who have severe allergies and we discuss the planning. Then when the guest comes on board, I – or one of my managers – go and meet with them and we talk about the menu we can do for them while on board. For families with severe allergies, I have even had a chef go with that family to every restaurant to feed them … we will not take any chances.”

Prior to sailing

Contact your travel adviser and ensure your reservation details include the fact you are travelling with a passenger who has allergies.

If you made your reservation online at royalcaribbean.com you may add your request to the “update personal information” section. You should also send an email request to special_needs@rccl.com; include the guests’ names, booking number, ship name and sail date.

Also ask if there is any paperwork that needs to be submitted before the cruise and what is and isn’t allowed in terms of taking food from home/ the cruise ship for shore trips.

Take out travel insurance – declare being at-risk of anaphylaxis when purchasing.

When on board

In the Windjammer buffet, any made to order items can usually be made to accommodate specific dietary restrictions. In the specialty restaurants, make your server aware of your dietary restrictions.

In the main dining hall – tell your waitstaff. They are your servers for the entire cruise. If you’re still worried – talk to the chef!

Always disclose your allergy at every meal and carry more than one epi-pen just as you should at land restaurants.