Cruise Line Liability for Crimes Committed on a Ship: What You Need to Know

December 11, 2025

Cruise vacations are marketed as luxurious escapes—floating resorts where passengers can unwind and explore the world. But for all their glamour, cruise ships are also isolated environments with thousands of people, limited law enforcement, and complex jurisdictional rules. When a crime occurs onboard, victims often face confusion, fear, and uncertainty, especially when they discover how complicated cruise ship liability truly is.


Understanding your rights is essential. The attorneys at Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. have extensive experience handling complex, multi-jurisdictional criminal and civil matters, including cases that involve maritime law. Their knowledge of federal procedures, international legal frameworks, and victim rights can provide crucial support to individuals who experience crimes at sea.

This guide explains how cruise line liability works, what crimes occur most frequently on ships, and what steps victims should take to protect themselves.

1. Cruise Lines Have a Duty to Provide a Reasonably Safe Environment

Under maritime law, cruise lines owe passengers a duty of reasonable care, meaning they must maintain safe conditions and take steps to prevent foreseeable harm—including criminal acts.

Cruise lines can be held liable if they fail to:

• Adequately screen and hire competent crew members.


• Provide proper security personnel.


• Install and maintain surveillance systems.


• Ensure well-lit hallways, decks, and entryways.


• Monitor high-risk areas such as clubs, corridors, and pool decks.


• Respond effectively to reports of suspicious or dangerous behavior.

When a cruise line's negligence contributes to a crime, the company may be responsible for compensating the victim.

2. The Most Common Crimes Reported on Cruise Ships

The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA) requires cruise lines operating through U.S. ports to report certain crimes. The most frequently reported include:

• Sexual assault (the most prevalent onboard crime)


• Physical assault.


• Theft of high-value personal property.


• Missing persons.


• Kidnapping.


• Tampering with evidence during investigations.

These crimes happen in cabins, hallways, recreation areas, nightclubs, elevators, and even during shore excursions.

3. When Cruise Lines Can Be Held Liable

A cruise line may be legally responsible for crimes committed onboard if the company:

• Provided inadequate security
Poorly trained or insufficient security staff leaves passengers vulnerable.

• Ignored prior warnings or incidents
If similar crimes occurred previously and no corrective measures were taken, liability increases.

• Negligently hired or supervised crew
Background checks and proper supervision are essential to passenger safety.

• Failed to respond appropriately
Delays in medical care, slow incident response, or failure to involve law enforcement can worsen conditions.

• Created or ignored unsafe conditions
Poor lighting, broken locks, or unsecured areas contribute to criminal opportunities.

The attorneys at Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. understand how to investigate these failures, uncover negligence, and pursue justice for victims. Their experience in handling serious criminal offenses and complex claims allows them to navigate the difficult legal terrain that often surrounds cruise ship cases.

4. Jurisdiction in Cruise Ship Crimes: Who Has Authority?

Cruise ship crimes involve one of the most complicated jurisdictional frameworks, combining:

• Flag-state law (country where the ship is registered)


• International maritime law.


• U.S. federal law (when U.S. ports are involved)


• Contract restrictions written into every cruise ticket.

Because investigations may be handled by multiple authorities—or none at all—evidence can be lost or mishandled.

This is one reason victims often benefit from legal representation. Attorneys at Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. are familiar with the federal agencies involved in maritime crime investigations, such as the FBI or Coast Guard, and can help clarify what to expect and how to protect a claim.

5. What Compensation Can Victims Seek?

Victims of cruise ship crimes may be eligible for compensation related to:

• Medical treatment


• Future healthcare or counseling


• Pain and suffering


• Emotional trauma


• Loss of income (depending on circumstances)


• Property loss or theft

However, cruise ship contracts often limit when and where claims can be filed, including:

• Notice of claim deadlines as short as six months.


• Mandatory lawsuit filing within one year.


• Required lawsuit location, usually Miami, Florida.

Missing these deadlines can result in losing the right to pursue compensation. Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. regularly handles time-sensitive criminal and civil matters, helping clients act quickly and within required legal windows.

6. What to Do If You Are a Victim of a Crime on a Cruise Ship

To protect your rights, take the following steps:

1. Report the incident immediately to ship security.


2. Request and keep copies of written reports.


3. Document everything—photos, messages, injuries, locations.


4. Collect witness names or statements if possible.


5. Seek prompt medical attention onboard or at the next port.


6. Limit conversations with cruise staff, who may minimize the event.


7. Consult an attorney as soon as you return to the U.S.

Even well-meaning cruise security teams ultimately work for the cruise line, not the victim.

Attorneys at Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. can guide victims through the next steps, help preserve evidence, and navigate the legal complexities that follow.

FAQs: Cruise Line Liability for Crimes Committed on a Ship

1. Can I sue a cruise line for a crime committed onboard?
Yes—if the cruise line's negligence contributed to the crime. Most lawsuits must be filed in Miami, per ticket contract terms.

2. Are cruise ships required to report crimes to the U.S. government?
Yes. Under the CVSSA, cruise lines must report certain crimes involving U.S. citizens or U.S. ports.

3. Does the FBI investigate cruise ship crimes?
The FBI may investigate crimes occurring on ships touching U.S. waters or involving U.S. citizens.

4. What if the crime happened in international waters?
Jurisdiction may fall to:

• The ship's flag state.


• U.S. federal authorities.


• Local authorities at the next port.

This complexity is why victims often need legal guidance.

5. Are cruise lines responsible for crew member assaults?
Typically, yes. Cruise lines can be held liable for negligent hiring, supervision, or retention of dangerous employees.

6. How long do I have to file a claim against a cruise line?
Most cruise lines impose:

• Six months to provide notice.


• One year to file a lawsuit.

7. Can Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. help with cruise ship crime cases?
Yes. Their attorneys are experienced in federal law, multijurisdictional cases, and complex investigations. They can help victims protect their rights, evaluate liability, and pursue compensation.

Final Thoughts

Crimes aboard cruise ships are more common than many passengers realize, and navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming. Cruise lines have clear legal responsibilities, and when they fail to meet them, they may be held liable for the harm that occurs.

With the complexities of maritime law, international jurisdiction, and strict contractual deadlines, having the guidance of a knowledgeable legal team can make all the difference. The attorneys at Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. provide experienced representation, strategic guidance, and strong advocacy for individuals impacted by crimes at sea. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation, and we'll help you navigate all the intricacies of the legal process.