If you use a CPAP machine, the recent crackdown on extension cords and power strips by cruise lines like Royal Caribbean has probably caused you a bit of anxiety. You’ve heard the horror stories: you pack your standard extension cord, security flags your bag, and suddenly you’re standing in line at the "naughty room" to surrender your contraband. 

 As a retired Fire Chief, I get it. Unapproved electrical devices are a legitimate fire risk on a ship. But as a traveler, I also know you need to breathe at night! If you are worried about the logistics—where to plug it in, how to get distilled water, and how to pack it—we’ve put together this guide to help you sleep easy on your next voyage. 

1. Packing Your Machine: Carry-On Only! First things first: Never put your CPAP in your checked luggage. Between the baggage handlers at the airport and the porters at the cruise terminal, your bag goes through a lot of tossing and turning. I always pack my CPAP in a carry-on—either a backpack or a small rolling suitcase—to ensure it stays safe and doesn't get broken before the vacation even starts. 

2. The Power Struggle: Outlets and Extension Cords One of the biggest variables on a cruise ship is the outlet situation. 

Newer Ships: You’ll often find USB and standard outlets right next to the bed (we saw this on Star of the Seas). 

Older Ships: The outlets might be all the way across the room at the desk/vanity. 

The "Official" Solution: Do not bring your own extension cord from home. Instead, let the cruise line provide one for you. 

Special Needs Form: Most lines (like Royal Caribbean) have a special needs form on their website. Fill this out about 30 days before you sail. 

Check the Box: Look for the option for CPAP/BIPAP. This alerts the crew that you need an extension cord and distilled water provided in your cabin. 

On Board: If you forget the form, ask your Room Steward on Day 1 or try requesting it via the cruise line's app. 

The "Better" Solution (My Personal Favorite): If you want to be self-reliant and avoid the hassle of waiting for a cord, look at your CPAP's power brick. The cord that connects the brick to the wall is usually removable. You can buy a longer replacement power cord (e.g., 6-10 feet) that plugs directly into your CPAP’s brick. 

Why this works: It is not an extension cord; it is a specific power cable for your device. Safety Factor: From a fire safety perspective, this is actually better because it is one continuous line from the wall to your machine, rather than daisy-chaining cords. 

3. The Water Situation Don't stress about lugging a gallon of water through the terminal. Use the same Special Needs Form mentioned above to request distilled water. It will usually be waiting in your stateroom when you arrive. 

4. The "Fire Chief's Hack": Magnetic Hooks Cabin nightstands are notoriously small. Once you put a CPAP machine on one, you have zero room for your phone, glasses, or book. 

The Fix: Bring strong magnetic hooks (link to Amazon). Since ship walls are metal, you can stick a hook on the wall right above your side of the bed. In the morning, hang your mask and hose up on the hook. It keeps the gear off the dirty floor, lets it air dry efficiently, and keeps your nightstand clutter-free.  

Want to see exactly what cord I’m talking about or how we set up the room? Check out our full video breakdown below: 

Watch: How to Cruise with a CPAP: Distilled Water, Outlets, and Cabin Hacks