What Are the Main Crimes Onboard Cruise Ships?
December 04, 2025
Cruise vacations are known for relaxation, entertainment, and adventure—but like any environment with thousands of people living in close quarters, crime can occur. From theft to serious violent offenses, cruise ships face unique safety challenges due to their isolated location, diverse passenger population, and complex international jurisdiction.
Understanding what are the main crimes onboard cruise ships is important for travelers who want to stay informed and for anyone involved in an incident who may need legal guidance. At Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A., we help clients navigate the complex legal issues associated with cruise ship crimes, including jurisdiction questions, international laws, and passenger rights.
Below are the most commonly reported crimes on cruise ships and what passengers should know about them.
1. Theft and Property Crimes
Theft is one of the most frequently reported cruise ship crimes. Because passengers routinely leave their rooms, visit multiple decks, and carry valuables, items can be easy targets.
Common forms of cruise ship theft include:
- Stolen cash, jewelry, or electronics.
- Cabin break-ins.
- Theft by passengers or even crew members.
- Pickpocketing in crowded areas.
- Luggage theft during boarding or disembarkation.
While most cruise lines have security measures in place, theft still occurs—and investigations can be challenging due to limited onboard policing.
2. Sexual Assault and Sexual Misconduct
Unfortunately, sexual assault is one of the most serious and high-profile crimes on cruise ships. These incidents can occur between passengers, between crew and passengers, or among crew members.
Common scenarios include:
- Assaults occurring in cabins, hallways, or secluded areas.
- Incidents involving alcohol.
- Inappropriate conduct by crew members.
- Voyeurism, hidden cameras, or unauthorized recordings.
Because cruise ships operate under maritime law and often sail under foreign flags, reporting and investigating sexual assault can involve multiple jurisdictions, making it essential for victims to seek legal guidance.
3. Physical Assault and Fights
Confined environments, alcohol consumption, and large crowds increase the risk of physical altercations. Assaults may occur between:
- Passengers
- Passengers and crew
- Groups involved in disputes
- Intoxicated individuals
While cruise ships typically have onboard security, they are not law enforcement officers, and their authority is limited.
4. Fraud, Scams, and Financial Crimes
Financial misconduct can happen onboard, including:
- Credit card fraud.
- Overcharging for services.
- Identity theft.
- Fraudulent onboard sales or activities.
Additionally, cruise ship employees or vendors may commit financial crimes against passengers or the cruise line itself.
5. Illegal Drug Possession or Drug Trafficking
Cruise ships have strict rules against illegal substances. Drug-related crimes may involve:
- Passengers bringing drugs on board.
- Drug use inside cabins.
- Attempted drug smuggling between ports.
- Distribution involving passengers or crew.
Depending on where the ship is located when the offense occurs, the case may fall under federal U.S. jurisdiction or international law.
6. Alcohol-Related Incidents
Excessive drinking contributes to many onboard crimes and accidents. Alcohol-related issues include:
- Disorderly conduct
- Intoxicated assaults
- Injuries due to falls
- Underage drinking violations
Cruise lines profit heavily from alcohol sales, but they also face responsibility for monitoring consumption.
7. Missing Persons and Suspicious Disappearances
Though less frequent, missing person cases are among the most serious incidents at sea. These situations may involve:
- Overboard falls
- Suicidal acts
- Alcohol-related accidents
- Foul play or criminal activity
Investigations are extremely difficult due to the ship's movement, surveillance limitations, and jurisdictional complexity.
8. Child-Related Crimes
Crimes involving minors are particularly alarming and may include:
- Child endangerment
- Sexual exploitation or inappropriate conduct
- Physical abuse
- Kidnapping attempts (rare but possible)
Cruise lines have a heightened duty to protect minors, especially within childcare programs or supervised activities.
Legal Challenges with Cruise Ship Crimes
Crimes at sea are governed by a combination of:
- U.S. federal maritime law
- International maritime law
- Foreign flag laws (most ships are registered in other countries)
- Port country laws
- Cruise line policies
This patchwork of legal authority creates confusion and often leads to inadequate investigations by onboard security.
Passengers reporting crimes may face:
- Limited evidence collection
- Language barriers with staff
- Delays in contacting authorities
- Poor documentation
- Jurisdiction disputes
This is why legal representation is essential.
How Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. Helps Victims of Cruise Ship Crimes
At Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A., our attorneys have extensive experience representing victims of crimes committed onboard cruise ships. We can assist by:
- Helping determine which laws apply to your case.
- Communicating with cruise line representatives and insurers.
- Securing and preserving evidence.
- Ensuring reports are properly filed.
- Protecting your rights during investigations.
- Filing claims or lawsuits in the appropriate court.
- Pursuing compensation for injuries, trauma, or financial loss.
Navigating crimes at sea requires a legal team familiar with maritime law and the cruise industry's complex regulations.
If You Were the Victim of a Crime on a Cruise Ship, We Can Help
If you or a loved one experienced a crime aboard a cruise ship, you do not have to face the legal challenges alone. The attorneys at Donet, McMillan & Trontz, P.A. can guide you through the process, explain your rights, and help you pursue justice and compensation.
Call
(305) 444-0030 and contact our office today for a confidential consultation.
