Ocean cruises remain one of the most popular forms of travel worldwide. In 2023 alone, passenger numbers exceeded 31 million, dwarfing reports from previous years. This upward trend is expected to continue, with experts estimating that annual cruise participants will hit nearly 40 million by 2027. Among the biggest reasons why cruises continue to be so successful is because of the many tropical destinations they typically visit. To date, some of the biggest cruises have ports of call at sunny places like the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.
With these destinations in mind, most cruise passengers know the importance of packing sunglasses. As we mentioned in a previous post about what to pack for your next cruise, this eyewear can help you navigate the brightness and climates that most passengers are exposed to. That said, given the special circumstances of a cruise, your average costume sunglasses is not enough. More than just as an accessory, your cruise sunnies should offer proper protection and comfort throughout the entire journey. So, if you’re unsure what to look for in your cruise sunglasses, here are a few features to keep in mind:
Protective lenses
By virtue of being directly out on the open waters, ocean cruises are stunning but often at the mercy of the elements. As such, most passengers have to contend with the harsh sun, strong winds, saltwater, and debris. These can prove risky for the eyes since they can cause a myriad of issues, ranging from ocular sunburns to corneal irritations. This is where the right lenses come in. Rather than just opting for dark-tinted ones, it’s better to use lenses that are proven to block out 100% of UV rays and are crafted so as to safeguard the eyes from debris. Should you require refractive vision correction, you can get the same protective lenses in prescription sunglasses. Available from trusted brands, such as Ray-Ban on reputable sites such as LensCrafters, they can be useful for those who usually wear glasses like single-vision, progressive, and cylindrical, to name a few. On a cruise, having these kinds of lenses helps improve ocular clarity and comfort so passengers can better enjoy themselves.
Durable frames
Another thing that sets cruises apart is the sheer number of activities that passengers can indulge in both onboard and off. For starters, most cruise ships now have at least several entertainment areas, sports facilities, and gaming centers. Then, depending on the itinerary, cruise packages typically include exciting on-land experiences, like tours. While these are inarguably fun, they do bring about an above-average amount of wear and tear. If you happen to be using cheap sunglasses, these can easily incur damage. Alternatively, you’ll want to invest in shades with durable frames that are lightweight yet capable of withstanding extra pressure. For instance, the sporting brand Costa uses scratch- and shatter-resistant materials. This means that even if you were to drop them or if debris were to hit them, they’re less likely to break and hurt you. Although these types of frames may be a bit pricier, they pay off in the long run since they can last you multiple cruises.
High coverage silhouettes
Finally, you’ll also want to consider the silhouette of your shades. As we mentioned earlier, the level of exposure that an ocean cruise comes with can be more intense than what most passengers experience regularly. Consequently, your average sunglasses shape may not be able to provide the appropriate amount of protection. With this in mind, a good example of these is the wraparound sunglasses from Oakley. As a performance brand, their models are designed to benefit individuals who are under extended periods of sun exposure and physical exertion. Since they offer maximum coverage, there is less chance of radiation, glare, or debris entering the eyes, leading to more comfortable vision on deck or on land.
