Vessels of crime.
Name: Ashley Nakedhead
Professor: Beth Hammett
Class: Comp 2
Date: March 3rd, 2025
Cruise Ship Crimes
Cruise ships offer an alluring escape from the everyday grind, presenting travelers with an opportunity to explore exotic destinations while enjoying luxurious amenities on the high seas. However, beneath the surface of these floating paradises lies a complex reality that is often overlooked: Crimes can and do occur aboard these vessels. From theft, drugs, and assault to more severe offenses and even death, incidents of crime can disrupt the idyllic atmosphere of a cruise and raise concerns about safety and security for passengers and crew alike. While cruise ships are often marketed as safe and luxurious getaways, a closer examination reveals that crimes do happen and threaten passenger safety, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures and safety protocols to foster a safer cruising environment.
One of the most alarming categories of crime reported on cruise ships is sexual assault. According to data from the Department of Transportation, certain cruise lines, particularly Carnival Cruise Line, have been identified as having disproportionately high rates of sexual crimes. In 2024, Carnival reported thirty-nine incidents of sexual assault and rape, a significantly higher number compared to its competitors, such as Royal Caribbean, which reported twenty-eight incidents for the same year. The legal case of Jane Doe v. Carnival Corporation, where a passenger alleged that she was raped by a crew member on the Carnival Miracle, highlights the urgent need to address safety concerns on cruise ships. While industry representatives may assert that cruising is one of the safest vacation options, the data reveals a disturbing trend of serious crimes that cannot be ignored. According to the allegations, “Jane Doe was a passenger onboard Carnival’s vessel and in the early hours of December 2, 2018, she alleges that Fredy Anggara, a Carnival crew member from Indonesia, raped her in a storage closet.” (Propper)
In addition to sexual assaults, cruise ships are also venues for various other criminal activities, including theft, physical assault, and drug-related offenses. In 2017 alone, federal authorities recorded a total of 106 crimes, including 76 sexual assaults, 13 serious assaults, and eight thefts of more than $10,000 (Shenfeld). These figures contradict the claims made by industry representatives and highlight the necessity for greater scrutiny and accountability within the cruise industry. Such statistics highlight a troubling trend in which passengers may feel vulnerable in an environment where traditional law enforcement presence is minimal. The unique nature of cruise ships, often operating outside the jurisdiction of any single country, complicates the prosecution of crimes and contributes to a perception of lawlessness.
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of crime on cruise ships. One significant element is the atmosphere created by the consumption of alcohol. Cruise lines often promote a party-friendly environment, encouraging passengers to indulge in onboard bars and lounges. This excessive alcohol consumption can lead to impaired judgment and increased instances of aggressive behavior, both of which can escalate into criminal activities. Research has shown that intoxication can significantly heighten the likelihood of conflict, and the relaxed environment aboard a cruise ship may contribute to a sense of invincibility among some passengers. Furthermore, the lack of a dedicated police force onboard means that incidents may not be adequately managed or reported, allowing issues to fester and creating an environment where potential offenders may feel emboldened to act. As Frederick Kenney, the director of legal affairs and external relations for the International Maritime Organization, noted, “there’s no cut-and-dried rule” regarding the enforcement of laws at sea, which contributes to a lack of accountability.
In response to these concerns, the cruise industry has implemented various security measures aimed at protecting passengers. Comprehensive security protocols are in place, including rigorous pre-boarding checks, video surveillance, and trained security personnel available 24/7. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) emphasizes transparency by requiring cruise lines to report serious crimes involving American passengers, regardless of the ship's location. This commitment to transparency aims to hold the industry accountable and ensure that passengers have access to information regarding safety and security. These measures reflect an acknowledgment of the need to prioritize passenger safety in an environment that can be prone to crime
Additionally, cruise lines have established protocols for handling reports of crimes. Royal Caribbean International asserts that the safety and security of our guests and crew is our highest priority. Measures such as mandatory reporting to law enforcement, the presence of trained crew members in crime prevention, and the establishment of a clear process for addressing allegations are all steps taken to reinforce passenger safety. For instance, major cruise lines employ security personnel who are often former law enforcement officers trained in crime prevention and response. However, despite these efforts, critics argue that the industry's response remains inadequate and that more significant reforms are necessary to protect passengers effectively. This includes calls for enhanced training for crew members, improved reporting mechanisms, and greater accountability for cruise lines regarding crime prevention and response.
Moreover, the legal framework surrounding cruise ship crimes often leaves victims feeling powerless. The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010 was signed into law to improve passenger safety and security on a cruise ship. This was the first law to focus on the well-being of passengers aboard cruise ships. The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA) mandates certain safety measures, but enforcement can be inconsistent, and victims may face challenges in seeking justice. The complexity of jurisdiction, especially in international waters, complicates legal recourse for those who experience crime on cruise ships. This lack of clarity can discourage victims from reporting incidents, perpetuating a cycle of silence around these crimes. Victims may feel that their claims will not be taken seriously or that they will face retaliation from the cruise line, leading to further reluctance to come forward.
In addition to the challenges faced by victims, the cruise industry also grapples with the public perception of safety aboard its vessels. High-profile cases of crime, especially those involving sexual assault, can lead to negative media coverage and a loss of consumer confidence. Potential travelers may hesitate to book cruises, fearing for their safety based on these incidents. The industry must work diligently to rebuild trust and demonstrate its commitment to passenger safety. This includes not only implementing robust security protocols but also actively engaging with passengers to educate them about safety measures and crime reporting processes.
In conclusion, while cruise ships offer unique and enjoyable vacation experiences, the reality of crime aboard these vessels cannot be overlooked. The prevalence of incidents such as theft, assault, and sexual violence poses significant concerns for passenger safety. The cruise industry has made strides in enhancing security measures and promoting transparency; however, ongoing challenges remain. It is essential for cruise lines to continue to prioritize passenger safety by implementing robust security protocols, ensuring proper training for crew members, and fostering a culture of accountability. Furthermore, addressing the legal complexities surrounding cruise ship crimes and improving support for victims are crucial steps in creating a safer environment for all passengers. Only through these efforts can the industry hope to restore confidence among travelers and ensure that their experiences at sea are as safe and enjoyable as possible. As the cruise industry continues to evolve, it must remain vigilant in addressing safety concerns to uphold its reputation as a desirable vacation choice for families and individuals alike.
Works Cited
“Cruise Line Incident Reports.” U.S. Department of Transportation, www.transportation.gov/mission/safety/cruise-line-incident-reports. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025. 
“Crimes Onboard Cruise Ships.” Crimes Onboard Cruise Ships, www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/crimes-onboard-cruise-ships. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025. 
Malkin, Elisabeth. “Report of Sexual Assault on Cruise Ship Shows Gaps in International Law (Published 2019).” The New York Times, 19 Apr. 2019, www.nytimes.com/2019/04/19/us/cruise-ship-crimes-laws.html.
Propper, David. “Carnival Must Pay Passenger $12M after She Accused Crew Member of Rape during 2018 Cruise: Judge.” New York Post, 4 Sept. 2024, nypost.com/2024/09/03/us-news/carnival-must-pay-passenger-12m-after-she-accused-crew-member-of-rape/. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.
Shenfeld, Hilary. “Cruise Ship Violence: Murders and Other Crimes at Sea.” A&E, 2 July 2018, www.aetv.com/real-crime/cruise-ship-violence-murders-violent-crimes-at-sea. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.
