As cruising has grown, so, too, has its regulation. Cruise ships operate under the conventions and standards of the U.N.'s International Maritime Organization. Individual ships also must meet the maritime standards of the country where they are registered. In addition, any ship operating from a U.S. port must submit to pre-construction, quarterly, and annual inspections by the Coast Guard. Passengers, meanwhile, must participate in a safety drill within 24 hours of departure.
Most cruise lines complete it before pulling away from the dock.
With new vessels coming out, safety is always the No. 1 concern.