3 ‘secret codes’ you never want to hear on a cruise ship and their terrifying meanings

There are three 'secret codes' you never want to hear on a cruise ship due to the terrifying meanings that are said to be behind them.

While embarking on a cruise was previously associated with older travellers, there is no question that there's something for everyone aboard the seas nowadays.

Heck, one couple decided to 'sell everything' to live on a ship permanently, while others save money by doing similar.

That doesn't mean there aren't things to keep in mind on a cruise ship, with 'secret codes' something anyone planning on vacationing on board a cruise should keep in mind.

Operation Rising Star/Operation Brightstar

If you're hearing any of this on board, then something has gone seriously wrong.

There are many secret codes to keep in mind (Getty Stock Photo)

Basically, Operation Rising Star is used to tell staff a death has happened on the cruise, while Brightstar is called out for medical emergencies on Disney and Carnival ships.

As per The Independent, Cody Candee, CEO of travel luggage firm Bounce.com, said: "If you hear Operation Rising Star, there is no need to be alarmed.

"The cruise staff will have already informed who the deceased was travelling with before making an official announcement to the rest of the passengers. Cruise ships also have international regulations and standards they must adhere to, including the legal requirement to have a morgue on board in case of fatalities."

Echo, echo, echo

This is the last thing you want to hear onboard a ship, with Candee indicating hearing 'echo, echo, echo' means 'brace for collision.

The travel expert added: "Another signal you don't want to hear on a cruise. Normally repeated three times, 'echo, echo, echo' can mean 'brace for collision'.

"This could indicate an impact with another ship or land, as well as dangers posed by strong winds or drifting while in port."

'Echo, echo, echo' is the last thing you want to hear on a cruise ship (CFOTO/Future Publishing via Getty Images)

Oscar, oscar, oscar

Such command means someone on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity ships has gone overboard, The Independent explained.

Candee said: "When this happens, the ship will typically stop and launch a coordinated search-and-rescue operation. This process includes deploying lifeboats and activating onboard safety procedures to locate and recover the individual.

"If you happen to hear this code while on deck, stay vigilant. And if you spot someone in the water, immediately inform a cruise worker."

Of course, those who have ever been on a cruise ship will know a safety demo is performed at the beginning of each trip to ensure all passengers know what to do in the event of something going wrong.

UNILAD has reached out to Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Disney Cruises for comment.