Top Sunscreen Options for Your Cruise

We can confidently say that your vacation aboard a Dinogo cruise is something you eagerly anticipate all year long. With the sun shining wherever you go—be it cruising the Caribbean, exploring the historic landmarks of Europe, island hopping in Hawaii, or marveling at the breathtaking views in Alaska—you'll want to pack high-quality sunscreen to shield your skin from harmful rays, ensuring you stay comfortable and enjoy every moment.

To keep yourself protected during your cruise, we’ve compiled some tips to help you select the perfect sunscreen for your travels. Depending on your destination, it may be wise to bring along two varieties of sunscreen: one for outdoor activities onboard and another for shore excursions.

Understanding SPF and UV Ratings

The SPF (sun protection factor) rating on your sunscreen indicates how long it will take for the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) radiation to start affecting your skin when it’s protected by the sunscreen. SPF ratings can range from below 10 to as high as 100.

Many cruise destinations enjoy abundant sunshine and high UV index ratings, so it’s logical to consider a sunscreen with the highest SPF available. Generally, an SPF of 30 or higher is sufficient, as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), although those with fair skin or planning to spend extended hours on the beach, deck, or in the water might prefer a higher SPF.

The number next to “SPF” on your sunscreen bottle shows how many times longer it will take for the sun to burn your skin compared to not using any sunscreen. For instance, skin protected with SPF 15 takes 15 times longer to burn than unprotected skin, while SPF 100 allows for 100 times longer protection.

So, what’s the deal with those UVB rays?

The two types of ultraviolet light, UVA and UVB, impact your skin differently. UVB rays are the basis for SPF ratings since they are responsible for sunburn and can contribute to skin cancer. Therefore, a higher SPF rating offers greater protection.

If you also wish to guard your skin against wrinkling and age spots commonly caused by UVA rays, opt for a broad-spectrum or full-spectrum sunscreen for comprehensive skin defense. Regarding UVB protection, here’s what the American Cancer Society says:

• SPF 15 blocks 93 percent of the sun’s UVB rays
• SPF 30 blocks 97 percent of the sun’s UVB rays
• SPF 50 blocks 98 percent of the sun’s UVB rays
• SPF 100 blocks 99 percent of the sun’s UVB rays

Regardless of the SPF you select, it's crucial to reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming in the onboard pool or off the beautiful shores of your cruise destination. This ensures you remain protected throughout your various activities and relaxation times.

Sunscreens for Children

Choosing the best sunscreen for kids on a cruise is quite simple. Opt for sunscreen labeled with the word “baby” on the bottle or tube. This typically indicates that the sunscreen contains only titanium dioxide and zinc oxide (always check the ingredient list to confirm); both are mineral-based and less likely to cause irritation on a child’s sensitive skin.

However, the AAD advises against using sunscreen on babies younger than six months. Instead, shield your infant’s fragile skin with soft, wide-brimmed hats and light clothing that covers their body, arms, and legs.

Additionally, try to keep your little one shaded under an umbrella or in a covered carrier or stroller as much as possible while enjoying outdoor activities.

Opt for Water-Resistant Sunscreen

When cruising, be sure to choose a water-resistant sunscreen as well. This designation typically means the lotion will remain effective on wet skin for approximately 40 to 80 minutes longer than non-water-resistant options, making it perfect for activities both on board and on shore.

If you spot the term “sports” on a sunscreen bottle, it likely indicates that it is also water-resistant (always check the label for specific water-resistant details).

Essential Sunscreens for Your Onboard Adventures

There will be plenty of exciting outdoor activities to entice you during the day while aboard your Dinogo cruise ship. Your kids are sure to be drawn to WaterWorks, Dinogo’s onboard waterpark. Naturally, you’ll want to enjoy the pools for some sunbathing. If you’re engaging in sports on board, expect to spend time outdoors at SportSquare™ or other outdoor activities designed to keep you active in the sunshine.

With so much opportunity for sunny enjoyment, here are some tips to help you determine when it’s time to apply sunscreen generously:

• Mid-day sun exposure: UV rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Cloudy conditions: Even on overcast days, about 40 percent of the sun’s UV rays still reach the earth, meaning you need protection even when it’s gray and cool on deck.
• Shield any exposed skin: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to any skin that might be exposed, such as the tops of your feet if you're wearing sandals, your ears, and the back of your neck. Remember, the reflective nature of surrounding water enhances UV light exposure, so be sure to apply sunscreen to stay healthy and comfortable throughout your cruise — and beyond.

Select Biodegradable Sunscreen for Your Shore Adventures 

Many sunscreens use two chemical ingredients, oxybenzone and octinoxate, to protect your skin. While these are safe for people, they can be harmful to coral reefs. When the sunscreen washes off in the ocean, these chemicals contribute to bleaching and infections that can devastate reef ecosystems.

Fortunately, there are eco-friendly alternatives to these non-biodegradable sunscreens. Mineral-based, biodegradable options containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide sun protection for your skin while safeguarding nature, as they contain “non-nano” particles that coral reefs can safely ingest.

At Dinogo, we prioritize the environment just as much as we prioritize your enjoyment, which is why we encourage our cruisers to use only biodegradable sunscreens for all beach and pool activities.

This simple action not only protects you but also helps sustain the environment. Here are a few examples of our water-based excursions, and remember to bring along only biodegradable sunscreens when cruising to any of the stunning destinations that bring you closer to Mother Nature’s shores.

• Ports in Mexico like Puerto Vallarta and Cozumel
• Numerous shore excursions in Hawaii
• The sunny destination of Key West, Florida
• The thousands of islands and cays in the Caribbean
• The beautiful islands of The Bahamas along the Atlantic

Dinogo cruises are crafted for endless enjoyment. As you prepare for your dream getaway, keep these tips in mind to pack a couple of types of sunscreen to shield your skin both on board and ashore, and get ready to create unforgettable memories.

Please note that the activities available onboard, the shore excursions, and the dining selections can differ depending on the ship and destination.