Posted June 12, 2026
Passengers are often surprised to learn just how many injury claims against the major cruise lines move through a single federal courthouse. Because the forum selection clause in nearly every cruise ticket contract directs lawsuits to the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, in Miami, this court has become the central venue for maritime passenger injury litigation in the country.
From May 29 – June 12, 2026 there were over 25 new cases filed – thats more than 2 case filings per day. This does not include filings in other jurisdictions.
The volume is steady and substantial. In this recent two-week period alone, more than two dozen new maritime personal injury suits were filed in the Southern District of Florida against cruise operators. The defendants in those filings read like a roster of the industry’s largest names — Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, MSC, and others — with Carnival and Royal Caribbean appearing most frequently, consistent with their position as the two largest operators by passenger volume.
These cases are filed under the various jurisdictional grounds that govern maritime claims, including admiralty jurisdiction, diversity of citizenship, and federal question jurisdiction. That mix reflects a reality that most cruise ship passengers rarely anticipate: a cruise ship injury is not an ordinary personal injury case. It is a federal matter, litigated under maritime law, in a specific court, under strict deadlines.
For an injured passenger, this is significant. Regardless of where you live, where you boarded, or where the incident occurred, your case will likely be heard before the federal judges in this district. Working with a firm based in Miami — one that practices regularly in the Southern District of Florida and understands how these cases are litigated here — is a meaningful advantage that out-of-state attorneys cannot offer.
The attorneys at Waks & Barnett, P.A. have represented injured cruise ship passengers and crew members for more than 35 years, from our offices in Miami, the heart of both the cruise industry and the court where these claims are decided. We handle these cases exclusively against the cruise lines — never on their behalf. If you or a loved one was injured aboard a cruise ship, contact our office for a free consultation. There is no obligation, and the call with our attorneys is free. Call today at 1-305-271-8282.
Have Questions About an Incident on a Cruise Ship? Contact Waks & Barnett, P.A.
The attorneys at Waks & Barnett, P.A. have been representing assaulted or injured cruise ship passengers for more than 35 years. Based in Miami, we handle maritime injury claims exclusively. We help you understand your rights and will assist you in filing a claim against the cruise line.
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 and confidential.
Call today at 1-305-271-8282.
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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.