Unfortunately, danger is a possibility, even on a cruise vacation. 2 cruise ship passengers from England were shot while on a shore excursion from a P&O cruise.
As reported at CruiseCritic.com on March 22…
Two P&O Cruises’ passengers are in hospital after being shot by an armed robber during a port call in Barbados.
A 59-year-old woman was shot in the right thigh and a 72-year-old man was shot in the pelvis on the outskirts of the capital Bridgetown as they made their way back to Adonia on Sunday afternoon. They have been named as Philip and Ann Prior, from Woodbridge in Suffolk, according to a report in the Evening Standard.
According to police reports the attacker fled the scene with the woman’s handbag before the police arrived. Passers-by rushed to the couple’s aid, using towels as bandages, until an ambulance arrived. The pair was taken to the nearby Queen Elizabeth Hospital where they are said to be ‘comfortable’, and one of them has since been released (per reports from 3/22/2013).
How can you stay safe while on a shore excursion?
- Stay in groups
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Be careful of certain areas of town, port or island
- Study local maps if you’re walking or driving
- Listen to tour guide or local officials
- Keep a phone on you if possible
Understand that crime can occur anywhere – even on a cruise vacation meant for relaxation and enjoyment.