Cruising with a CPAP:

How to Travel Smart and Sleep Well at Sea

If you use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, traveling takes a little more planning—but cruising with your CPAP on Royal Caribbean is easier than you might think. With the cruise line’s medical accommodations and a few smart hacks (like magnetic hooks!), you can sleep soundly at sea just like you do at home.

💼 Before You Sail: What to Pack

While you can’t bring your own extension cord or power strip (more on that in a minute), here’s what you should pack:

• Your CPAP machine

• Power cord for your machine

• CPAP cleaning wipes or mild, fragrance-free soap https://amzn.to/433m83i

• Strong magnetic hooks (for a smart stateroom setup) https://amzn.to/3GSwpqz

• A few zip-top bags to separate clean/damp parts

• A Hose cleaning brush https://amzn.to/3SExCnP

You can also request a gallon of distilled water to be delivered to your stateroom. Royal Caribbean provides this at no charge for CPAP users—just submit a Special Needs form before your cruise or let your stateroom attendant know once onboard.

And remember: your CPAP machine should go in your carry-on bag, not your checked luggage.

🛏️ Setting Up Your CPAP Onboard

Here’s something important to know: you’re not allowed to bring your own extension cord or power strip on Royal Caribbean ships. This is a safety policy. But don’t worry—they’ve got you covered. Just request an extension cord through the Special Needs form or directly from your stateroom attendant, and they’ll provide a ship-approved extension cord to help you set up your machine by your bed.

Now, the outlets on cruise ships aren’t always ideally located—often across the room from the bed. That’s where magnetic hooks come in handy. Since ship ceilings and walls are metal, I used a few strong magnetic hooks to guide the extension cord safely overhead from the wall outlet to the nightstand. This keeps the cord off the floor, out of the way, and prevents tripping. It worked like a charm!

🧼 How to Clean Your CPAP at Sea

Keeping your equipment clean is pretty easy with a simple routine:

• Wipe down the mask and hose daily with CPAP wipes or a soft cloth and mild soap.

• Rinse the humidifier chamber with warm water and soap every couple of days, then air dry on a clean towel.

• Use the distilled water Royal Caribbean provides for your humidifier.

I also packed a few zip-top bags to separate clean gear from anything damp after rinsing, especially helpful if you need to clean in the morning before an excursion.

😴 Sweet Dreams on the High Seas

Once your setup is in place and everything is running smoothly, you can truly relax. I slept just as well on the ship as I do at home—and with the gentle rocking of the ship and the hum of my CPAP, it was some of the best sleep I’ve had in ages.

Final Thoughts

Using your CPAP on a Royal Caribbean cruise doesn’t need to be stressful. With the cruise line’s support—distilled water and extension cord provided, and a little planning on your part—you’ll rest easy every night of your vacation. Don’t forget to pack those magnetic hooks to elevate your setup (literally!).

Do you cruise with your CPAP? Share your tips or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!