Common Cruise Ship Crimes to be Cautions About

Cruise vacations offer a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. However, like anywhere else that has thousands of people gathered in a relatively small space, cruise ships are not immune to crime.

Understanding the most common crimes on cruise ships and the steps you can take to protect yourself can lead to a safer and more enjoyable voyage.

Common Crimes on Cruise Ships

According to reports filed with the Department of Transportation (DOT), the most common crimes aboard cruise ships are thefts, sexual assaults, physical assaults, and drug-related incidents. The more you know about these risks, the better you’ll be able to protect yourself:

• Theft and Property Crimes – Theft is one of the top reported crimes on cruise ships. As passengers often carry valuable items like jewelry, cash, and electronics, opportunistic thefts can occur in unlocked cabins, public areas, and during shore excursions. To minimize the risk of being a theft victim, always use the in-cabin safe for valuables and be cautious about leaving belongings unattended, such as by the pool when you go for a swim.
• Sexual Assault – Sexual assault is among the most serious crimes that occur on cruise ships, affecting both passengers and crew members alike. The confined environment and social activities, often involving alcohol, can create situations in which sexual assaults are more likely to occur. Cruise lines are required to report sexual assaults to authorities and have measures to keep passengers safe, such as security cameras.
• Physical Assault – Physical altercations between passengers and sometimes crew members can happen, particularly when alcohol is involved. It’s essential to avoid confrontations and report any threats of violence to ship security.
• Drug-Related Incidents – Drug possession and distribution are illegal on cruise ships, and yet drug-related incidents still occur. Passengers should be cautious about accepting substances from strangers and should not leave drinks unattended in public areas. Report any suspicious activity you see to ship security.

Cruise Line Liability for Injured Passengers

Cruise lines are responsible for providing a safe environment for their passengers. They can accomplish this by implementing security measures, conducting employee background checks, and responding appropriately to reported crimes.

The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA) mandates that cruise ships operating in U.S. waters adhere to specific safety and security standards. These standards include reporting crimes to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Transportation.

If you are the victim of a crime while on a cruise ship, you may be able to hold the ship operators or crew liable if their negligence contributed to your injury. For example, if a crew member with a history of assault attacked you, their employer could be liable for negligent hiring.

Steps to Protect Yourself on a Cruise

To protect yourself from becoming the victim of a crime on a cruise ship, follow these tips:

• Stay Informed and Vigilant – Keep your cabin locked at all times, use the peephole before opening the door for anyone, and familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout and the locations of security personnel offices.
• Secure Your Belongings – Store your valuables in the in-cabin safe and avoid carrying large amounts of cash around on the ship or during excursions.
• Stay in Public Areas – Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas of the ship and always travel with others, especially when leaving your room at night.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption – Be mindful of your alcohol intake, as excessive drinking can leave you vulnerable to crimes such as theft or sexual assault. Always keep an eye on your drinks and do not leave them unattended.
• Report Suspicious Activity – Familiarize yourself with the ship’s reporting procedures and emergency contacts, and immediately report any suspicious behavior or incidents to ship security.

The Importance of Reporting Crimes

Reporting crimes is crucial for your safety and the safety of others aboard the ship. Because cruise ships must report crimes that occur to the FBI and other relevant authorities, cruise operators take investigations into alleged crimes very seriously.

When you report a crime to the ship’s security, they can take appropriate action, assist authorities, and prevent future incidents.

Understanding Maritime Law and Pursuing Compensation

Maritime law typically governs incidents that occur on cruise ships. If you are the victim of a crime, understanding your rights under maritime law is essential because they may differ from those afforded you by your home state or even the state your cruise set out from.

For example, under maritime law, the statute of limitations for injured passengers to file claims against the ship operator, their employees, or another passenger is three years from the date of the injury.

Since maritime law differs from state laws, hiring an attorney with experience in these types of claims is vital. If you’re filing a claim against the cruise operator, they’ll have a team of experienced maritime attorneys on their side, so you should have the same.

Your attorney can assist by investigating your claim, gathering supporting evidence, negotiating with the cruise line’s insurance company or their attorneys, and representing you at trial.

Talk with a Cruise Ship Personal Injury Attorney

Were you injured on a cruise ship due to the crew’s or another passenger’s negligence? Maritime law gives you the legal right to seek compensation for injuries you sustained aboard a cruise ship.

Call Louis A. Vucci P.A. at (786) 375-0344 or contact us online for a free consultation with an experienced maritime personal injury attorney. We’ll evaluate your claim, explain your legal options, and answer any additional questions you have.