The short answer
A muster drill is a mandatory safety exercise held at the start of a cruise, usually before the ship leaves port. It teaches you where your assembly station is, what the alarm sounds like and how to put on a life jacket. Yes, you have to go, including if you have cruised many times before. Exact procedures differ by cruise line and ship.
What happens
During a muster drill you typically:
- Learn what the emergency alarm sounds like. The general emergency signal is commonly described as seven short blasts followed by one long blast.
- Review how to find your assembly station and what to bring.
- See how to put on a life jacket.
- Hear instructions from the crew on what to do in an emergency.
Traditional vs. digital muster
Many lines now use a digital format, sometimes called an e-muster. In that case:
- You watch a safety video on your cruise line’s app or your cabin TV.
- You go in person to your assigned muster station.
- A crew member checks you in, often by scanning your room key or boarding pass.
On some ships or sailings you may still have a traditional drill, where everyone gathers at their stations at the same time. Check the instructions in your cabin or the ship’s announcements.
Finding your muster station
Your assigned station letter or location is usually shown on your room key, boarding documents or on the back of your cabin door. Signs and crew guide you there. Find it on embarkation day so you know the route.
Do you have to go?
Yes. Every guest is expected to take part, including children. International maritime rules require passengers to be briefed on emergency procedures. Cruise lines can enforce this seriously, and there have been reports of guests being removed from a ship for repeatedly refusing to take part after warnings.
Tips for the drill
- Arrive on time and listen to the crew’s announcements.
- Bring any items they request, and leave drinks behind if asked.
- Travel with children and make sure they know where to go.
- If you use a wheelchair or have mobility needs, tell the cruise line in advance or speak with the crew. Accommodations are available.
- Take a moment to notice the exits and the way back to your cabin.
If you miss it
If you miss the drill, contact guest services or a crew member as soon as you can. The ship may arrange for you to complete the briefing. Cruise lines can also restrict certain privileges until it is done, so do not assume you can skip it without consequences.
Related reading
For other first-day topics, see what a water shuttle (tender) is and medical care on a cruise ship.