Cruise vacations are marketed as safe, carefree escapes—floating resorts where guests can unwind without worry.
But behind the glossy marketing, serious safety concerns exist, especially when it comes to crew member misconduct, including sexual assault. These incidents are more common than many passengers realize, and advocates have long argued that they remain underreported, mishandled, or quietly minimized by major cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and others.
The closed environment of a ship, combined with high crew turnover and the presence of thousands of passengers, creates unique risks. Cruise lines have a legal duty to provide reasonably safe conditions for passengers, which includes properly hiring, training, and supervising the employees who live and work onboard. When the companies fail in this responsibility, passengers can face life-altering harm.
Why Crew Member Misconduct Happens – and Why It Often Goes Unreported
A cruise ship functions like a small, floating city with its own rules, chain of command, and jurisdictional complexities. Crew members may work long hours, live in tight quarters, rotate between ships, and come from dozens of different countries. While the vast majority of crew members are dedicated professionals, the nature of the environment means that bad actors can slip through the cracks, especially if hiring processes are rushed or insufficient.
Passengers who experience rape, sexual assault or harassment on a cruise often feel intimidated or confused about how to report it. The ship may be far from land. The victim may fear retaliation or worry that the company will not take their claim seriously. Language barriers, cultural differences, and the power imbalance between crew and guests further complicate the situation.
For years, victim advocates and lawmakers have criticized cruise lines for failing to report crimes accurately, undercounting incidents, or not preserving evidence. According to U.S. federal law, cruise lines operating out of American ports must submit crime data – including sexual assaults – to the Department of Transportation. These numbers are publicly available, but they often reflect only a portion of what survivors report informally or directly to the ship.
What Cruise Lines Are Required to Do
Under maritime law, cruise lines owe passengers a duty of “reasonable care under the circumstances.” This includes:
- Screening crew members through background checks and employment verification
- Training staff on sexual harassment prevention, guest interaction policies, and emergency reporting procedures
- Monitoring and supervising crew behavior
- Acting promptly when allegations arise
- Preserving evidence when a crime is reported
- Notifying proper authorities, including the FBI and U.S. Coast Guard, when applicable
Cruise ships that embark or disembark passengers at U.S. ports fall under U.S. jurisdiction for many types of crimes. As a result, a reported sexual assault may trigger involvement by federal agencies – especially if the vessel is near U.S. waters or a U.S. citizen is involved.
Despite these responsibilities, many survivors describe feeling dismissed, discouraged from pursuing formal complaints, or pressured to resolve matters “internally.” When a cruise line’s negligence – such as inadequate security, failing to review complaints about a crew member, or ignoring warning signs – contributes to an assault, the company may be held legally responsible.
What Survivors Should Do After an Assault at Sea
If misconduct or assault occurs, taking immediate steps can help protect a survivor’s health and preserve evidence:
1. Report the incident immediately to ship security or medical staff.
2. Seek medical care as soon as possible; ask that evidence be documented and preserved.
3. Request to speak with law enforcement , including U.S. authorities if jurisdiction applies.
4. Document everything — what happened, who was involved, where, and what you were told.
5. Avoid signing statements or waivers until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
6. Contact an experienced maritime attorney who understands the unique laws that govern cruise ships.
Survivors are also encouraged to seek counseling or advocacy support to help navigate the emotional and psychological impacts.
Cruise Lines Must Be Held Accountable
Whether on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity, MSC, Disney, Princess, or any other cruise line, passengers are entitled to safe conditions and proper protection. When cruise companies fail to take reasonable precautions – or fail to respond appropriately when something goes wrong – they can be held liable for the harm that follows.
Raising awareness of crew member misconduct and sexual assault is vital. Passengers deserve transparency, accountability, and safer cruising environments. No one should have to experience silence, dismissal, or corporate indifference after such a traumatic event. And when misconduct does occur, victims have rights—and the ability to take legal action to protect themselves and others.
Waks and Barnett is a law firm that specializes in cruise ship injury claims.
For more information from our attorneys, please call us today. There is no obligation with the call – and – the call with our attorneys is free. Call today at 1-305-271-8282.
Our cruise ship accident lawyers have been helping injured passengers and crew members for more than 35 years. We help you understand your rights and will assist you in filing an injury claim against the cruise line. If you believe negligence played a role in your injury – or just have questions about the your accident – please contact our office today.
Call 1-305-271-8282. Serving clients in Florida and across the country.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique and should be evaluated by an experienced cruise ship accident or maritime injury attorney.