Everyone looks forward to stepping aboard their chosen cruise ship, but it’s important to remember that rules are in place to keep everyone safe and ensure an enjoyable experience. Many passengers don’t realize they’ve broken a rule until it’s too late—I’ve seen plenty of situations online that could have easily been avoided. Before you sail, take a few minutes to review your cruise line’s guidelines so you don’t run into unnecessary problems.
It’s also important to stay flexible. Things don’t always go as planned, especially when it comes to weather. Ports and excursions may be canceled for safety reasons, and while that can be disappointing, it’s beyond your control. A little patience and preparation can go a long way in helping you still enjoy your trip.
Be sure to check your cruise line’s official website for a complete list of rules and policies.
Keep in mind that certain actions can lead to serious consequences, including fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, removal from the ship, bans from future sailings, or even legal trouble depending on the situation.
Some common rules to follow include:
- Do not feed birds such as seagulls. They can become aggressive, steal food, and create a mess around the ship.
- Do not touch or feed wildlife during excursions, including sea turtles, dolphins, or whales.
- Wildlife violations can carry serious penalties. Fines for feeding wildlife from a cruise ship can range from $500 to $36,000 or more, depending on the location and severity of the offense. Food items like bread and crackers may seem harmless, but they can cause significant health problems for marine animals and birds.
- Avoid any kind of physical altercation—fighting is strictly prohibited and can result in immediate removal from the ship.
Passengers involved in fights will be detained by ship security. Depending on the severity, they may be confined to their cabin, held in a secure area, or placed in the ship’s brig for the remainder of the cruise. In many cases, they will be disembarked at the next port and required to pay for their own travel home. They may also receive a permanent ban from the cruise line, and possibly others. Some cruise lines, such as Carnival, can impose fines of up to $500 or more.
Assault and battery at sea fall under maritime law. Security may detain individuals until local authorities, or even federal agencies like the FBI, take over. Offenders may also be held responsible for property damage. In extreme cases, a ship may reroute to remove passengers involved in serious incidents—costs that can run into thousands of dollars and may be charged to those responsible.
Additionally, other passengers may pursue civil action, seeking compensation for medical expenses, damages, or losses caused by disruptions.
Following these guidelines will help ensure a safe, smooth, and enjoyable cruise for you and everyone onboard. Visit your cruise line rules and regulations.
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