VSP 2025 Environmental Public Health Standards – Chapter 5.0 — Potable Water Safety.

Potable water is one of the most critical public health elements on board any vessel. Safe water protects guests and crew from waterborne diseases and contamination, supporting overall hygiene and food safety. The VSP 2025 Environmental Public Health Standards requires cruise vessels to maintain potable water systems that meet strict design, operation, and maintenance standards to prevent microbiological, chemical, and physical contamination.

This chapter outlines the core requirements for ensuring that all water distributed on board is safe to drink, cook with, and use for cleaning and hygiene. It addresses the entire potable water system — from bunkering and production to storage, distribution, and end-use points — and provides guidance for monitoring, testing, and corrective actions when hazards are identified.