The medical facilities across cruise ships differ widely depending on the age and size of the ship. It’s important to note that in the event of a health emergency that the ship is not equipped to cope with, either the ship will divert off course to the nearest port or an emergency services helicopter or boat will be called out to collect the passenger. In the event of such an emergency, the person travelling with the passenger who has taken ill will also be transported along with a dedicated member of the ship staff who will provide support and assistance.