It is well known, at this point, how versatile and practical lanyards are. But for the avid travelers, especially those that fancy a trip on a cruise ship every now and again, there is the question of the cruise lanyard: Is it worth it at all?
The short answer is yes. Very much so. Here are some of the common reasons why you need lanyards on a cruise:
Key Card Holder
One of the main benefits of having cruise lanyards is that they are great for holding onto your cruise ship card, among other things. This card is essential for accessing your stateroom, making onboard purchases and disembarking at ports of call. Wearing cruise cards on a lanyard makes for a great convenience. This is to say nothing of safeguarding them from getting lost – as you can either attach the lanyard to a belt loop or get one with a retractable reel.
Also, in emergency situations like safety drills, having your card on a lanyard ensures you have it on hand for immediate use. Many cruise passengers find lanyards with key card holders to be a simple yet essential accessory that greatly enhances their cruise experience.
Safety and Security
In the event of an emergency while on a cruise, having your key card readily available can be crucial. In the event of a safety drill, for example, passengers are often required to carry their key or cruise card. Having your key card on a lanyard ensures you can quickly present it whenever needed, helping crew members verify your identity and participation in safety protocols.
Moreover, in the event of an emergency evacuation, a lanyard with your key card can be crucial. Passengers are typically required to bring their identification cards during these situations, and wearing it on a lanyard ensures you won’t forget or lose it in the chaos. This added level of preparedness indeed contributes to a safer and more organized response during any unexpected onboard emergencies.
Souvenir or Keepsake
A cruise lanyard can also serve as a meaningful souvenir or keepsake from your vacation. Many cruise lines provide passengers with lanyards as part of their welcome package or as a token of appreciation. These lanyards often feature the cruise line’s logo, the ship’s name or the destination, making them, thus, a tangible reminder of the unique experience you had on that particular cruise.
Indeed for many travelers, lanyards become more than just a practical accessory during the trip; they become a symbol of the memories and adventures they had while cruising. Passengers often attach small pins, badges or decorative elements to their lanyards. This kind of personalization goes a long way to create a lasting memento of their cruise journey, making them a popular and sentimental choice for cruise enthusiasts.
Identification and Promotion
Cruise lines may provide passengers with lanyards as a way to promote their brand or to easily identify passengers who are part of a particular group onboard. These lanyards not only help passengers easily identify themselves as part of the cruise community but also act as a subtle form of advertising for the cruise line itself. It’s a way for the cruise company to showcase its brand and create a sense of unity among passengers.
Additionally, lanyards can play a role in identifying specific groups or participants in special events or activities onboard. For example, passengers taking part in a cruise-sponsored excursion or attending a themed event may receive lanyards with distinctive designs or colors. This goes a long way to helping crew members quickly recognize and assist them. In this way, lanyards not only serve as a form of identification but they also contribute to the efficient organization and enjoyment of the cruise experience.
Personalization
Personalization is a significant aspect of using a lanyard on a cruise. Many passengers enjoy customizing their lanyards to reflect their individual tastes and preferences. They often add decorative elements such as pins, badges, or small pouches that hold personal items like cash, lip balm, or even a small camera. These personal touches not only make the lanyard uniquely their own but also enhance its functionality.
By personalizing their lanyards, passengers can express their personalities, interests, and cruise experiences. It’s a way to share their journey and engage with fellow cruisers, sparking conversations and connections throughout the trip. This customization not only adds a fun and creative dimension to the lanyard but also makes it a more practical and versatile accessory that aligns with each passenger’s needs and style
It’s worth noting, of course, that not all cruise lines provide lanyards, so you may want to check with your specific cruise operator or consult their guidelines before your trip. Even if a lanyard is not provided, there are often a gift shop onboard that is sure to cater to your lanyard needs.
Where Can I Find Custom or Cruise Lanyards?
Now that it’s been established that you need a cruise lanyard for your next trip coming on, say, the Norwegian cruise line, the question becomes: where can you find them?
For one, as earlier mentioned, most cruise lines have gift shops that will no doubt offer free lanyards, among other things. If not, it would be advisable to get your hands on them beforehand. A host of stores, but online and physical, offer lanyard. Imprint is a great example.
Happy shopping and bon voyage!