cruise ships dangerous

Are cruises safe? Here’s what you need to know about cruise ship security and safety

If you've watched the news at any point over the past several years, it's likely you've seen disturbing stories about cruise ship norovirus or COVID-19 outbreaks and passengers "falling" overboard. Combine that with reports of sexual assault and fistfights, and it's no surprise you might be wondering whether cruise ships are safe.

Here, I'll address some prospective passengers' biggest concerns and offer tips and advice on cruise ship safety so you can maintain peace of mind on your voyage.

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Are cruise ships safe?

Let's cut right to the chase: Yes, cruise ships are generally safe as long as you use common sense and remember that vessels are not impervious to accidents, illness or people who just don't know how to behave. As with any place you might live or visit ashore, there are risks, but those risks can be mitigated if you keep a few simple tenets top of mind.

The key thing to recognize is that you should maintain the same level of awareness, self-control and vigilance as you would anywhere else. When you're in your hometown, would you invite a complete stranger into your bedroom, leave your wallet unattended in plain sight or allow your very young child to run around unsupervised? If the answer is no, you shouldn't be doing those things on a cruise ship, either. (And if the answer is yes, I have questions.)

Although you have power over the above, sometimes circumstances are beyond your control. Perhaps the weather is bad, or something mechanical goes wrong with the vessel. Cruise ships are equipped with advanced navigational equipment to avoid storms, and engine room contingencies allow onboard operations to continue, even if the ship's speed or propulsion is affected.

Ships also employ entire onboard teams of engineers and mechanics who are able to fix problems on the spot, as well as crew members trained to fight fires. The bridge — the ship's main control center — is constantly in touch with shoreside teams who provide additional assistance.

With that, here's a bit more advice on how to make your sailing safer, followed by answers to some of your most burning safety-related queries.

Cruise safety tips

Cruise ship safety measures are in place on every vessel in every major cruise line's fleet. However, there are some extra tips you can follow to stay safe on a cruise.

• Pay attention during the muster drill. Muster drills are a pain, and nobody likes them. However, they tell you what to do in case of an emergency, so it behooves you to pay attention. The information offered during them — including where your muster station is and how to properly don a life jacket — could end up saving your life.
• Keep a close eye on your keycard. Treat it the same as you'd treat a credit card or your keys. It grants access to your cabin and also serves as your onboard charge card for purchases. If you lose it, report it to guest services immediately so they can deactivate the old one and issue you a replacement.
• Lock up your valuables. Keep your jewelry, passports, wallets, electronics and other important items locked in your cabin safe when you aren't using them, and don't leave them lying unattended in public areas.
• Don't invite strangers to your cabin. Don't tell them your cabin number or otherwise divulge sensitive personal information. If you're cruising by yourself, also use caution when telling people you're alone.
• Supervise your children. Allowing young children to roam the ship alone without an adult or member of the youth club staff is not only potentially unsafe but also can be an annoyance to other passengers.
• Avoid drinking so much alcohol that you lose your wits. It could lead to slipping and falling or cause you to engage in unsafe behaviors, such as entering crew areas or climbing on railings. It also could make you more susceptible to theft or assault. Plus, hangovers can really put a damper on the next day's fun.
• Steer clear of crew-only areas, and never stand on furniture or climb anywhere you aren't supposed to be. Restricted areas are restricted for a reason, and entering them can result in injury or death.
• Don't assume everyone on your sailing is trustworthy. Simply being on the same ship doesn't mean your fellow passengers are on the up and up. Most are, but some might not be. Treat strangers with the same level of scrutiny as you would in any other environment.

Are there police on cruise ships?

Do cruise ships have police? Is there security on cruise ships? Again, the answer is yes. Cruise ship police officers are more like security guards, many of whom serve as law enforcement officers or members of the military in their countries of residence when they aren't working on board.

Cruise security guards have the authority to break up fights and mitigate passenger hostility, drunkenness and other inappropriate behavior. They also have the authority to place rowdy, violent or otherwise dangerous passengers in the ship's jail, known as a brig .

Serious rule violations could warrant cruisers' removal from the ship at the next port of call and notification of authorities. However, maritime law is dicey and often unclear when it comes to which country has jurisdiction over crimes that happen in international waters.

Will I get sick on a cruise?

Getting sick on a cruise is a possibility, as it is anywhere you go. However, ships are held to high cleanliness standards that are dictated and monitored by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention via the Vessel Sanitation Program, which was implemented in the 1970s.

The VSP requires all passenger ships that carry more than 13 people to submit to random, unannounced inspections if they wish to visit ports in the U.S. The requirements are rigorous, and any score lower than 86 out of 100 is considered failing. (Scores and lists of infractions for all ships can be found on the VSP website .)

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the biggest health threat on ships was norovirus , which manifests as a highly contagious gastrointestinal illness that's easily spread through food contamination and surface contact in close quarters.

After the coronavirus shut down the industry, cruise lines further strengthened their protocols to include safeguards against airborne pathogens. They included social distancing and mask-wearing requirements , as well as the enhancement of air filtration systems. Other measures included contact tracing protocols, mandatory vaccination requirements and the expansion of onboard medical facilities and staff.

Many of the COVID-19-related policies — including requirements for mask-wearing and mandatory vaccination — have been relaxed, but the lines are able to reinstate them quickly if needed.

In addition to following cruise ship wellness policies, there are other ways you can minimize your chances of becoming ill when you sail. The best way to avoid both catching and transmitting germs is to wash your hands, particularly before eating and after using the restroom or coming in contact with high-touch surfaces like handrails and elevator buttons.

Hand sanitizer is plentiful on ships, too; while it's great for use between trips to the sink, it shouldn't be a substitute for thorough and frequent hand-washing. Additionally, when you cough or sneeze, do so into your upper arm or the crook of your elbow.

With regard to seasickness , toss a couple of remedies into your bag when you're packing. Tried-and-true options include Dramamine or Bonine pills, acupressure bands, ginger candies and behind-the-ear patches. In a pinch, seek out a green apple or ginger ale from the buffet or room service.

Also make sure you're getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen with an appropriate SPF and knowing your limits when it comes to alcohol.

Above all, if you're feeling ill before embarkation, don't cruise. Take advantage of your travel insurance 's cancel for any reason coverage (if that's included in your particular policy) to get your money back and avoid spreading sickness to others.

Can you fall off a cruise ship?

Yes, it's possible to fall off a cruise ship , but it doesn't happen without effort. To help ensure passenger safety, cruise vessels' cabin balconies and outdoor decks have railings that are roughly chest height on an average-size person. Thick metal or Plexiglas panels or metal bars are positioned under the railings to prevent people from slipping through. Even so, it's important to keep a close watch on young children at all times.

Most people who go overboard fall because they were inebriated, entered a restricted area or engaged in behavior they shouldn't have — such as standing on railings or furniture or climbing between balconies — or a combination thereof.

It's not possible for someone to slip on a wet deck or trip over a door frame and simply fall off a cruise ship.

Do cruise ships have enough lifeboats?

Yes, they do. Following the sinking of the Titanic, which didn't have enough lifeboats for everyone, the international maritime community developed Safety of Life at Sea standards. Under SOLAS, passenger ships are now required to carry enough lifeboats for all passengers. They are outfitted with navigation and communications equipment and basic necessities required for survival until help arrives.

Additionally, ships are required to hold muster drills for all cruisers prior to the start of each voyage, even for passengers who have cruised before. During the drills, guests learn what to do and where to report in the event of an emergency. They also learn what the emergency signal sounds like and how to put on a life jacket. (Ships must also carry enough life jackets for everyone, including specially designed ones for children and pets.)

Do cruise ships have doctors?

Yes, all big mainstream oceangoing cruise ships have trained medical staff on board, usually a combination of doctors and nurses. Many cruise lines increased the number of medical professionals on their ships following the onset of COVID-19.

Cruise ship medical centers are equipped to perform basic stabilization in the event of accidents, illness and other emergencies. They are not full hospitals, though, which means beds are limited, and they lack more complex treatment capabilities. They are designed to keep passengers stabilized and comfortable until they can be sent to a nearby land-based hospital.

They can, however, treat things like seasickness, cuts and bruises and other minor ailments without the need to offload passengers. They are also now equipped to conduct COVID-19 testing and isolation, and ventilators are on hand in the event that any serious cases arise.

Note that because they are never far from land-based medical care, most river cruise vessels do not have onboard medical staff. Additionally, medical care can be expensive on cruise ships that do offer it. It's generally not covered by regular health insurance, so always purchase a travel insurance policy.

Bottom line

So, are cruises dangerous? The answer is, generally, no. They're safe if you follow the same common-sense practices you'd use anywhere else. It's easy to let your guard down when you're having a great time on vacation, but remember: Cruise ships are like floating cities, which means they aren't immune to potential dangers.

Cruise ship safety is the responsibility of both the cruise line and individual passengers. Make sure to exercise an appropriate level of vigilance by protecting your valuables, refraining from inviting strangers to your cabin or giving out too much personal information, paying attention to muster drills, frequently washing your hands, keeping an eye on your children, staying out of restricted areas and knowing your limits when it comes to alcohol consumption.

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• Packing for a cruise? These items aren't allowed on board
• Man overboard: Cruise ship overboards and how they happen
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
• Gentlemen hosts: These men cruise to make sure single ladies have a great time
• What is the Jones Act and how does it impact cruise ships?
• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise ship concierge and a butler?

13 Worst Cruise Ships in the World

13 worst cruises.

The cruising industry was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite more cancellations in recent news, we're hoping for a comeback in the near future. After all, more than 26 million passengers set sail in 2018 — a 3 percent year-over-year increase from previous years — so who's to say those numbers can't eventually return?

Carrying thousands of passengers on ships that are five times bigger than the Titanic, cruise lines have amped up the bells and whistles to convince travelers to ride the seas with them. From Broadway-worthy shows, to celebrity-inspired menus, to gigantic water parks and thrill rides, cruises can be an amazing vacation. However, with more than 300 cruise ships, not all of them can be winners.

Here, we take a look at the worst cruise ships to take. See which of the ships you should skip — and which to sail instead.

13. Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is actually a fabulous cruise line with many top-rate amenities, cabins and excursions. If you pick the right ship.

With 27 ships, there are bound to be a few that slip through the cracks, and for RCCL, one of those is Ovation of the Seas.

Reviewers are not impressed with the ship's cramped dining spaces and pool, average-at-best food and, as one reviewer puts it, "SO MANY GIMMICKS" — including robot bartenders that don't add much to the experience.

The one bright spot? The ship's size, which several reviewers note is, at the least, impressive. (Its maximum occupancy is nearly 5,000 passengers.)

*Note: Reviews and ratings come from leading cruise-review website  CruiseCritic.com .

Ovation of the Seas Reviews

Customer rating: 3 stars

Reviewers say:

• "She ain't pretty, she just looks that way." (gmlaetta)
• "I know why I choose Princess cruises!" (Amanda71)
• "Huge ship that wastes its time with underwhelming features." (soro01)

12. Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's other stinker is also part of its Quantum Class. When the ship was built in 2014, it was Royal Caribbean's largest ship. And at the time it launched, CruiseCritic loved it, giving it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. 

As the years have passed, though, the aging ship has been surpassed by even larger ships by Royal Caribbean, which means it was sent to China and no longer services the Caribbean market. And passengers have noticed.

Reviewers repeatedly express that the ship is intended for a Chinese audience, "with little or no consideration for the nearly 40 percent non-Chinese." 

Other complaints? Cold food and long wait times to board.

Quantum of the Seas Reviews

• "Like most western passengers we too had a very disappointing cruise." (desr4t)
• "I felt no one knew what they were doing." (j53)
• "This is not a vacation for the faint hearted!" (BezzyB)

Better Royal Caribbean Ships

If you're going to catch a cruise with Royal Caribbean, you will find that there are many new ships with 4-star customer ratings on CruiseCritic.

The best of the best? CruiseCritic editors give a coveted 5-star rating to Allure of the Seas. This mega-ship, built in 2009, can hold 6,400 passengers and offers a Central Park in the middle of the ship, outstanding restaurants and entertainment, and so much to do you won't get bored during a day at sea.

Customers give it high marks, too: More than 1,500 of the roughly 2,800 reviews are excellent 5-star ratings.

CruiseCritic's Managing Editor Adam Coulter describes the ship as "breathtaking, both in scale and ambition."

11. Princess Cruises' Majestic

Princess Cruises earned fame when one of its ships starred as "the Love Boat" in the '70s. And its 19 ships mostly get high marks from the CruiseCritic team and passengers.

But there's one exception: The Majestic, which despite earning a respectable 4.5 in the editors' reviews, strikes out with cruisers. 

The ship, which sails in Australia's waters, earns low marks for its poor design, crammed quarters, staff shortages and too-small theater.

"Majestic," it seems, is not an entirely apt descriptor.

Majestic Reviews

• "If you are between 70 - 90 yrs old, then this slow paced ship is designed for you. It was boring." (Wendyro)
• "Nice ship but not a lot of atmosphere." (c7009)
• "A lot of passengers on this cruise were very dissapointed and it was a shame." (vnibbs1)

Better Princess Ships

Five Princess ships have a superior rating of 3.5 stars, and two of those five also get 4.5-star marks from the editors at CruiseCritic: the Crown Princess and Emerald Princess.

Both ships can hold more than 3,000 passengers, with the Crown sailing in the Caribbean and the British Isles while the Emerald takes on Alaska and Hawaii. 

mjfun78 called the Crown Princess a magical cruise that did not disappoint, while coloradolovestocruise loved the Emerald Princess and called it "another excellent Princess cruise."

10. MSC's Meraviglia

The largest ship in the MSC line, Meraviglia holds nearly 4,500 cruisers, and travels to coveted destinations in Europe and the Caribbean.

But recent reviews have not been kind. 

The most commonly singled-out problems? Boring food, a lack of interesting on-board activities and unfriendly staff. One first-time MSC cruiser, rosyc, specifically compared the ship unfavorably to Carnival and Celebrity ships. 

Meraviglia Reviews

• "First time on MSC... Not sure I'll do it again." (EllaDuChien)
• "Poor food, sad, unfriendly staff and no customer support." (Rjrja20)
• "Worst cruise ever!" (rosyc)

9. MSC's Lirica

CruiseCritic editors gave MSC Lirica just 3 of 5 stars, matching customers in their lackluster response. 

Built in 2003, the Lirica is definitely on the older side of cruise ships, which never bodes well. And reviewers, many avid cruisers, routinely complain of horrible food and equally bad service — a losing combination.

Also lambasted: the amateurish entertainment offerings.

Lirica Reviews

• "We have done over 50 cruises. We usually go with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess, Cunard. A few with P&O. However, we had never tried MSC and so decided to do this. Biggest mistake I have made in my life." (gettinold)
• "Have travelled on other cruise lines, but this was the worst ever." (pdale)
• "Don't book this ship very poor." (Soreen)

8. MSC's Armonia

The oldest ship in a cruise line's fleet is bound to face complaints — who wants something old when there are so many new ships to try?

What's worse? This ship wasn't originally an MSC ship at all; it was built for Festival Cruises in 2001.

Traveling between Miami and Cuba, the ship's woes include poor-quality food, limited culinary options, unfriendly service and substandard cleanliness. 

Even the CruiseCritic pros give it only a 3.5 out of 5, and they are often very generous.

Armonia Reviews

• "Old, Tired, and Poor Service." (midwest60)
• "Ironically, MSC never sent me a post cruise survey, and I am truthfully not surprised." (TexasCruiseBella)
• "This ship needs to be retired or sent to another port where the standards are not as high." (guscave)

7. MSC's Preziosa

Debuting in 2013, MSC's Preziosa originally received rave reviews, having launched with a more modern cruising style to compete with larger lines like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian.

Unfortunately, the cruise industry is a fast-moving and fickle one, and in the years since, the ship's reviews have deteriorated. Cruisers don't complain much about the ship in terms of cleanliness or beauty. Instead, they find the food is cold — and old — service is sub-par, and the entertainment leaves something to be desired. 

Preziosa Reviews

• "There is not much to do on board. Just some dance lessons, stretch exercise and a trivia that is done in 5 languages. It's a pain to sit through that." (Tinkerbell8)
• "It was our first time cruising and it has certainly NOT given us the 'bug'!!" (LesC29)
• "We were excited to try a new cruise line and had high hopes of a great experience. We were disappointed. The ship is very glitzy but has very little comfort." (JennyPan)

Better MSC Ships

While MSC dominates this list with its four three-star ships, this doesn't mean it's a disappointment across the board; the rest of its 19 ships fare better.

While its low-rated trips cater to an international crowd, two of its North American ships in particular are nailing it: the MSC Divinia and MSC Seaside, the latter of which gets a nearly flawless score by the editors. 

"MSC Seaside is lively and fun, incorporating jaw-dropping entertainment, lots of outdoor spaces (it's a sun worshipper's paradise!) and family-friendly activities that include a 4D cinema, bowling, ziplines and a large water park," writes CruiseCritic editor Ashley Kosciolek.

Cruisers agree, citing its excellent shows and beautiful design as reasons to set sail. J-Chalmski even described a recent itinerary on the ship as "the best cruise we have ever been on!"

6. Previously Cruise & Maritime's Magellan

Cruise & Maritime's Magellan began its run as a Carnival Cruise Line ship in 1985. Nearly 25 years and two owners later, the ship was still sailing before the pandemic hit, and not racking up awards for awesomeness.

Customers lament low-quality cuisine, amateurish entertainment, overpriced excursions and (yes) persistent bad smells. This despite the fact that the ship was completely refurbished in 2015 by Cruise & Maritime, and that it's considered the cruise line's flagship. (What does that say about the line's additional boats?)

When Cruise & Maritime collapsed in July 2020, it put the Magellan up for sale. The Magellan should set sail again under its new ownership, Seajets, but only time will tell if it will earn better marks.

Magellan Reviews

Customer rating: 3 stars

• "Dreaded from start to finish." (BarryandU)
• "Cruise from Hell." (ChilledSun)
• "The food on this ship was shocking. Typically, it was to a standard I wouldn’t accept if I was cooking at home. On the plus side, nobody I knew gained weight from eating on the cruise." (SLydon)

5. Carnival Sunrise

Carnival Corporation has 30 ships sailing the seven seas, and most of them have excellent reviews.

Carnival is notorious for being "the fun ship" and budget-friendly. But alas, one ship made it onto the worst-of list: the Sunrise.

A CruiseCritic editor ranked it 4 out of 5 stars, which sounds like they were being kind to a heavy advertiser, as the reviews by passengers were much worse. 

Even the friendly editor admitted that the lines and crowds were impossible to escape, and said the ship is not at all a quiet one.

Sunrise Reviews

Customer rating: 2.5 stars

• "Book another cruise, it’s not a vacation, this experience only consists of many many lines." (Kikican)
• "Swimming was impossible — pools were so crowded you only had room to stand." (kbcm341)
• "We love cruising but this cruise is not good." (Dntmcgee7)

Better Carnival Ships

Carnival ships are beloved by reviewers, with thousands of reviews for practically all ships but Sunrise. With the majority of these ships nabbing 3.5 to 4 stars, the leader of the pack is Carnival Vista, which received a 5.0 from CruiseCritic editors and 4.5 stars from fellow passengers.

There is so much to do on this action-packed ship — including a water park! — that the editor spending 10 days aboard couldn't sample everything. Now that is a good time.

4. Costa's Deliziosa

Costa Cruises earned negative headlines when its Concordia ship sank in Italy nearly a decade ago, killing 32 people. Despite the disaster, the Italian-based cruise company still welcomes cruisers who love its ships.

But there are a few ships they don't.

One faring not so well on the list is the Deliziosa. You know you're in trouble when headlines warn "think again," "never again" and "beware."

The most common complaints are related to the ship's poor food, described at turns as "bland" and "cold;" subpar dining service (a few complained about getting sick from the cuisine); and hospitality desk staffed by employees with limited knowledge. 

Oh, and it doesn't help that in 2017, a crew member went overboard on the ship.

Deliziosa Reviews

Customer rating: 2.5 stars 

• "Buckle up kiddos, because you're in for quite a ride with this one." (snguyenx96)
• "Don't even know where to start." (JandBtravelers)
• "Will not meet expectations if you have cruised anywhere else." (andbolton)

3. Costa's Fascinosa

When CruiseCritic editors don't even provide a review of a ship, does that say something about the Fascinosa?

This dismally rated ship is knocked for its repetitive, less-than-savory food — one reviewer noticed its dinner desserts recycled as breakfast the next morning, while another slammed even its OJ as watery. The service doesn't fare much better, with many calling the staff rude and unenthused. 

Fascinosa Reviews

• "If you have self-respect, don't even book." (Maninu91)
• "I have cruised before, but this was the worst." (Anne346)
• "Dreadful avoid at all costs." (Patricia Pace)

2. Costa's Favolosa

Not to pick on Costa, but another ship that doesn't hit the mark, nabbing only a 2.5-star average review from cruise-goers, is the cruise line's Favolosa, which ironically means "fabulous" in Italian.

Like the Fascinosa, CruiseCritic's editors never bothered checking out the ship, which is probably for their own good; customer reviews knock the ship's subpar cleanliness, lack of food and beverages, and poor service. And, as many complained, water to drink isn't included in the price of the cruise!

Favolosa Reviews

• "Bad service overall, worst attitude I've ever seen on a cruise ship." (Sgonzalez100)
• "Every port we came to we could not wait to get OFF the ship." (sugarb204)
• "Do not throw away your money on this company and its ships." (bomag43)

1. Costa Venezia

More bad news for Costa. Launching this new ship in March 2019, the reviews have not been favorable.

Its maiden voyage sailed from Trieste to Dubai to Singapore to Yokohama to remain based in Shanghai.  Passengers wanted to enjoy luxurious cruising in China, but it appears Costa hasn't nailed this market quite yet.

Maybe it's just early sailing kinks?

Venezia Reviews

Customer rating: 1.5 stars

• "Worst cruise ever, bad food, long queue, terrible service, bad singer, snobbish crew." (cruise freek)
• "This cruise offered an amazing itinerary but it was terrible." (Lorrie200)
• "I first chose this cruise for the ports it was stopping at, what a mistake, the embarkation at Singapore should have told me what was to come ... how can it take 4 hours to board a ship." (Maggiee123)

Better Costa Ships

With no ship earning more than three stars, Costa is clearly not the best line to sail with. But not all Costa passengers have had horrible experiences.

CruiseCritic ranks Costa Mediterranea and Costa Magica as the top two ships by the Italian cruise company, owned by Carnival. Sail one of these, and you could have an experience that defies Costa's poor industry reputation. 

Wrote Sandystruis after sailing the Mediterranea: "Having read so many negative reviews, we were very skeptical and even contemplated canceling before sailing. Thank goodness we didn't. We have been on 13 cruises with different companies and this cruise was by far the best."

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Are Cruise Ships Dangerous? Everything You Need to Know

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Anyone who’s looking forward to their next vacation may daydream about ways to see the world. Flying and traveling by train are two common options, but people also sail between countries by lounging on cruise ship decks. Are they a viable vacation option for sustainably-minded people? Read about how cruise ships affect the planet to decide if they’re dangerous.

They Harm the Environment

Sunset dinners out on the ocean sound like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but cruise ships are dangerous because they hurt the environment. These are a few ways they leave their mark on the planet long after docking.

Their Engines Waste Gas

Any ship that can transport thousands of people requires a significant amount of fuel. The average cruise ship burns 250 tons of gasoline per day, equaling nearly 8,000 gallons. Every time gasoline burns and transforms into energy, it also floods the atmosphere with heat-trapping gases that increase the planet’s temperature.

Rising atmospheric temperatures result in everything from catastrophic storm systems to icebergs melting permanently into the ocean. Every living thing suffers when the planet warms up, but cruise ships still leave their ports daily.

The Kitchens Waste Food

Thousands of people need to eat three times each day, so cruise kitchens stock over 250,000 eggs for daily meals , plus 170,000 pounds of vegetables and packaging for every ingredient. The endless buffets and all-you-can-eat menus result in wasted food that creates harmful gases as they spend years breaking down in a landfill.

Food waste solutions are available for anyone who wants to make this issue disappear. Cruise ships could donate it to compost companies that turn it into an eco-friendly, biodegradable liquid trash slurry. Donating leftovers to public food kitchens could be another solution for anything that hasn’t expired. Still, most cruises find it easier to throw uneaten food away.

They Dump Gray Water

When people flush toilets, wash their hands or shower on cruise ships, whatever slides down the drain becomes gray water. It’s a term that encompasses all wastewater from cruise lines that directly harms the environment. Cruise companies dump this waste into ports and near coastlines, introducing bacteria and pathogens into natural habitats and around communities. Anything that needs that clean water to live suffers because of the gray water.

They Release Extra Litter

Chip bags, empty soda bottles and complimentary shampoo containers are just a few of the waste products that can float away on the ocean waves. They fly from the ship’s deck before, during and after docking. The litter either kills wildlife or joins the great Atlantic garbage patch to ensure decades of animal-killing pollution to come.

They Pose a Health Risk

Are cruise ships dangerous? They hurt the environment, but they can also damage your health. These are the most common ways people get sick out at sea.

The Norovirus Lingers

Many people who don’t want to set foot on a cruise ship cite the norovirus as their primary concern. It’s a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea in places like cruise ships. You can contract it from being around someone who’s sick or by sharing space with them at dining areas or bars. Nothing’s worse than getting violently ill away from home — except possibly getting that sick in the middle of the ocean.

Seasickness Causes Dehydration

Although cruise ships are large enough for most people to avoid feeling them rock against the waves, some passengers still get seasick. The resulting diarrhea and vomiting can cause long-term dehydration, which is much more dangerous to some people than others.

Older adults and individuals with chronic conditions require more recovery time and an IV to fully hydrate their bodies again. Young children and infants also struggle to replenish their bodily fluids after periods of dehydration. These are massive age groups for annual cruise ship passengers, which means that many travelers are putting themselves at an increased risk for health concerns just to sail the sea.

COVID-19 Spreads Easily

Maintaining close contact will always spread disease, but that’s an especially pressing concern in a world with COVID-19. The airborne virus can travel around the ship’s highly populated areas and become quarantine vessels for weeks after an outbreak begins. It frequently happened in early 2020 as the world became familiar with the virus, but it can always happen again as long as the virus remains a threat.

People need to note that this won’t be the last pandemic caused by a virus. Research shows that the warming climate will cause other pandemics later on , so cruise ships will become even greater petri dishes for whatever viruses form and mutate in the coming decades.

They’re Sailing Crime Scenes

If the environmental and personal repercussions of cruise vacations aren’t enough, the ships also frequently become crime scenes. Read about the most common ways people get hurt between destinations.

Robbery Is Common

Everyone brings something valuable on cruise ships and they only sleep one door down from strangers. People break into rooms and steal valuables while other passengers are out at events or exploring destinations.

Robbery can also happen when locals hold passengers at gunpoint while shopping at tourist locations. Assailants also frequently target passengers who leave the ship for tours because they’ll have money or banking cards in their pockets. 

Sexual Assault Happens Frequently

People who travel on cruise ships are also at risk of sexual assault. Staff and passengers are away from police stations and hospitals, making people with evil intent feel freer to break laws. In 2019, cruise ship sexual assaults increased by 67% through the end of September. Since so many strangers gather on one ship away from law enforcement, the risk is always there.

Physical Assault Is Also Possible

When people feel removed from the real world and have the freedom to drink all day, physical assault can break out. Whether it’s adults brawling or sunburnt kids arguing by the water slide, physical assault is always a possibility.

They Hurt Animals

Cruise ships generate an excessive amount of noise. Although passengers can turn up the deck music and party through the afternoon, sea creatures can’t escape it. They can even become hurt from the sound invading their natural habitats.

The massive vessels harpoon whales on their submerged bows due to acoustic disturbance. Ships can also plow through pods of dolphins or schools of fish. Directly killing animals is a significant concern for cruise lines, but wildlife continues dying in these types of situations every year.

Potential passengers should also think about how their cruises harm animals through the generated waste. Gray water dumps bacteria into the ocean that make creatures sick or kill them. Trash becomes lodged in windpipes and blocks stomachs after floating on the waves until a hungry animal comes along.

Cruise ships are dangerous for people, but they also harm surrounding wildlife. It’s something many people don’t consider when booking a trip or enjoying their time out at sea.

Book Your Next Cruise With Caution

Cruise ships are dangerous in numerous ways, so keep these factors in mind when considering them as a vacation option. The pollution, waste and travel method have varying adverse effects on the planet. It may compromise sustainable lifestyles if people don’t know what they’re signing up for.

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Are Cruise Ships Safe Again?

Vivek Prakash / Getty Images

Key Takeaways

• The risk of a COVID-19 outbreak is higher when a lot of people share a common space, like a cruise ship.
• Most cruise lines have dropped vaccination and testing requirements.
• Consider your risk level based on your health status before booking a cruise, and take precautions while on board to avoid getting sick.

A cruise ship carrying 800 Covid-positive passengers recently docked in Sydney after being hit with a major COVID-19 outbreak—a scenario eerily reminiscent of the early pandemic days. It was a stark reminder that the pandemic is not over, and that cruising still presents a certain level of COVID-19 risk.

So is it safe to go on a cruise now? What are some things you can consider before deciding whether to board one this holiday season?

According to Brian Labus, PhD, MPH , an assistant professor in epidemiology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, said it’s important to consider whether you feel comfortable with the risks associated with cruising based on your health status.

“When a lot of people share any common space, like a cruise ship, the risk of an outbreak goes up,” Labus told Verywell. “When an outbreak does occur on a cruise ship, the high-density environment means a lot of people can get sick in a very short period of time.”

For example, Labus said, you may not want to go on a cruise that will place you in the middle of the ocean and away from any hospital for several days if you’re at high risk of severe illness.

However, we may have a skewed perception of the actual risk of cruise ship outbreaks. Thousands of cruises travel and disembark each week without incident, but we don’t hear about them, Labus said. We only hear about the occasional outbreaks on the news, so we might think they happen all the time.

How to Avoid Getting Sick on Cruise Ships

Like other businesses, cruise lines have mostly dropped their vaccination and/or testing requirements. But cruise lines still have safety protocols in place to prevent and control COVID-19 outbreaks on board, Labus said.

Since the specifics can vary depending on the cruise, you can look up a cruise line’s COVID-19 protocols on its website. Carnival Cruise Line, for example, may require guests who test positive for COVID-19 and their close contacts to quarantine in their rooms until a medical team determines it’s safe to resume their activities.

Leading up to your cruise vacation, it’s a good idea to limit your exposure to people outside of your household, wear a mask in crowded settings, practice good hand hygiene, and take a rapid test before you go. Making sure to get an updated COVID-19 booster and a flu shot at least two weeks before your trip is also extremely important, Labus said.

Though you might not be able to socially distance as much as you’d like while on a cruise, Labus said you can still practice the same COVID-19 precautions on board.

“Protecting yourself from disease on a cruise is no different than protecting yourself anywhere else,” he said.

If you get word of an outbreak on board, don’t panic, Labus said. Listen closely to the crew’s instructions, as every ship and every situation is different. Trust that the ship has protocols that are developed by medical professionals, he added, and these measures will allow them to respond appropriately and provide the best protection to everyone on board.

“If you do get sick, make sure to report your illness to the crew,” Labus said. “Trying to hide your illness just puts everyone around you at risk.”

What This Means For You

If you’re considering booking a cruise this holiday season, assess your risk level based on your health status. If you do decide to set sail on a ship, take precautions before and during your trip to avoid getting sick. In the occasion of an outbreak on board, listen closely to instructions. If you feel sick, be sure to report your illness to the crew.

The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our  coronavirus news page .

By Mira Miller Miller is a journalist specializing in mental health, women's health, and culture. Her work is published in outlets ranging from Vice to Healthnews.

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Cruise lines have regulations in place to prevent passengers from falling overboard.

Scared of Falling Off a Cruise Ship? Here's What You Should Know.

Despite recent reports, cruise ships are still a safe way to vacation.

Some might consider cruise ships havens, where passengers can destress freely and there's always something on tap. Still, although extremely rare, bad things can happen on them.

On April 12, crewmembers began a frantic search after choppy conditions tossed a woman from a P & O cruise liner . The ship, called Pacific Dawn , halted as fast as possible and turned around to search for her. Although the crew alerted other ships in the area, the search continues, as the woman has not been found.

Since 2000, reports say roughly 300 people on cruise ships have fallen overboard . There were 17 cases in 2017 and so far in 2018, there have been five.

These stats are low, considering the number of passengers on cruise ships has increased—today, more than 20 million people take cruises each year . All things considered, a fear of going overboard shouldn’t be an excuse to not take a cruise.

Safety First

Falling overboard is one of the rarest events that can happen on cruise ships , and there are specific safety standards in place to reduce the risk. High railings on public decks prevent passengers from getting blown or swept off accidentally, and security cameras record what’s going on in public places. There’s no official detection system for people who fall overboard quite yet, but the Coast Guard reportedly has technology in the works .

Overboard incidents are most commonly reckless or deliberate accidents induced by drunkenness. But cruise ship bartenders are trained to see when someone has had too much to drink and, like on land, they will stop serving them. Cruise ships also have on-board physicians and security officers to monitor people who might be at risk.

Too much alcohol consumption can also exacerbate conditions like bipolar disorder and depression. A small percentage of overboard situations are the result of suicides or foul play. Even when patrons have fallen overboard, crewmembers can circle the ship around to save them if they’ve been notified in a timely manner.

Aside from patrons falling overboard, other deaths take place aboard cruise ships , but they often don’t get as much attention. But of those deaths, most are of elderly passengers. The odds of dying on a cruise ship are roughly 1 in 6.25 million . It's much more dangerous to drive in a car, where the odds of dying in a crash are about 1 in 645 .

On a cruise ship, one of the biggest risks isn’t falling off—it’s the spread of diseases. Contact with ship railing, bathroom doors, and open food buffets can quickly spread contagious viruses like norovirus , which plagued hundreds aboard a Royal Caribbean International cruise in 2014.

Related: These Places Deserve More Travelers

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To prevent the spread of disease, some liners will sanitize railings, handles, and other objects with virus-killing alcohol. The best protection against gastrointestinal disease is to wash your hands and avoid contact with potentially infected people.

Cruising Along

In terms of falling overboard, river cruises are safer than their open water counterparts. River ships are smaller than traditional ocean liners , so the chances of a deadly fall are slimmer. (Smaller cruises also make it less likely to contract viruses.) River cruises also go on much tamer waters , and they sail closer to the shore.

Out of all the vacation options out there, cruise ships are still among the safest .

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Why are cruise ships so dangerous when it comes to viruses spreading?

Thousands of cruise ship passengers across the world have been quarantined in recent weeks after outbreaks of coronavirus onboard.

A total of 542 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed on the Diamond Princess , a cruise ship currently carrying 3,711 people outside the Japanese port of Yokohama.

While another ship with 3,600 passengers was also quarantined because of fears the disease may have spread widely among those onboard.

But why have cruise ships provided such a dangerous breeding ground for viruses?

Passenger behaviour partly to blame?

Professor Bill Keevil, from the University of Southampton, said he believes the passengers themselves are often unwittingly responsible for the spread of infection on cruise ships.

“The problem is that some potentially ill passengers, having looked forward to their holiday and spent a lot of money, do not want to miss out and board ship anyway,” he told Yahoo News UK.

“Alternatively, someone may innocently board the ship without any symptoms which subsequently develop onboard.

“They are required to immediately declare this and isolate themselves.

“The present coronavirus cases reported on the cruise ships are therefore not unexpected and isolating all the passengers in their cabins, while frustrating, is the best option until they can be taken off and housed in a more comfortable facility until the incubation period has passed.”

Are cruise ships susceptible to outbreaks?

Professor Keevil argues the outbreak of illnesses on cruise ships is a well-known phenomenon within the industry.

He argues that more needs to be done to improve safety measures.

READ MORE FROM YAHOO NEWS UK:

Coronavirus: director at hospital at centre of outbreak dies, coronavirus symptoms uk: nhs guidance on what to do if you're showing signs of the virus, is it safe to travel to china latest foreign office advice during the coronavirus outbreak.

“The cruise industry are well aware of the spread of disease onboard ship, considering that you can have hundreds or thousands of passengers in a relatively confined, isolated environment for days or weeks,” Professor Keevil added.

“They maintain regularly cleaning practices but still get occasional outbreaks of disease, particularly norovirus which is very hardy and highly infectious.

“They rely on the honesty of the passengers declaring if they are unwell or have had a recent illness as they board ship.

Which infections do cruise passengers catch?

Dr Connor Bamford, a researcher in virology at Queen’s University Belfast, said common infections spread easily on passenger ships because of the number of people living in close quarters.

He also said the conditions mean more dangerous infections like coronavirus are just as likely to spread.

“The viruses we worry most about are those than easily spread from one person to another and cause disease, such as influenza viruses or the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like these can be spread through the respiratory route,” he told Yahoo News UK.

“While some viruses, like seasonal influenza viruses, can spread by aerosols - very small drier droplets that can stay suspended in the air - most viruses are spread better in times of close contact that may bring infected people into closer and longer contact with uninfected people.

“This is very likely true of SARS-CoV-2.”

What do experts advise?

Dr Bamford said while it may be impossible to avoid “close contact” conditions on cruise ships, passengers can limit the risks by observing good hygeine.

“One of the reasons why transmission is more effective at closer contact is due to simply increasing the probability of spread but also by enhancing it as larger infectious droplets from coughing don’t spread far and land quickly on surfaces where they may be picked up unsuspectingly by uninfected people,” he added.

“One remedy for this is to practice good hygiene such as covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and by thoroughly and regularly washing your hands.”

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10 of the Most Dangerous Cruise Ports in the World

Avital Andrews

Avital Andrews, SmarterTravel's editor-at-large, is a travel and lifestyle journalist who is also a contributing editor for AAA's Via magazine. Her stories have been among the 10 most emailed or viewed on the Los Angeles Times, Outside, Sierra, and SmarterTravel websites, and have also appeared in USA Today, HuffPost, Apple News, Business Insider, and many other nationwide outlets. Her travel book , sold at bookstores and on Amazon, is in its fourth edition, and her journalism gets national media attention, including from The New York Times , The Atlantic , Time , NPR, and MTV. She's currently working on her first children's book. Follow her on Twitter @avitalb .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: My laptop—the lightweight and stylish HP Spectre x360—since I'm almost always on deadline.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: A round-the-world cruise that makes stops to experience Aurora Borealis, the Olympics opening ceremony, Borneo, Madagascar, the Jerusalem Festival of Light, the Bolivian salt flats, Kenya's Giraffe Manor, the Galapagos, the Maldives, Bora Bora, the Seychelles, and every Disney park. (That itinerary definitely exists, right?)

Travel Motto: I'll steal Saint Augustine's: "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: Window, always. For the views and also the naps.

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“A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.” We’ve all heard the quote. Inspiring though John Shedd’s sentiment may be, it’s not all true. Sometimes a ship in harbor isn’t safe, and neither are its passengers.

There are cruise ports around the world that should be known as places where there’s a much higher than average chance of being overpowered: stolen from, hurt, kidnapped, or killed.

“Do not assume that cruise lines would not dock at dangerous ports,” says Salvatore Grasso, a security consultant for Sicuro , a firm that analyzes intelligence to reduce risks for international companies and agencies, including Interpol. “Their priority is the bottom line and their liability is limited to warning passengers of possible risks. They are not accountable if you become a victim.”

So how can you determine which ports to avoid, or at least which to be more cautious in? Well, it’s complicated. As Grasso puts it, “It is very difficult to quantitatively define what constitutes ‘dangerous’ in the context of cruise ports, particularly in poorer countries, where crime statistics are seldom reliable as a dataset. What constitutes ‘dangerous’ in cruise ports, then, is largely dynamic—what violent or criminal acts are more pervasive at the time of your visit. There are many variables at play.”

So this list of 10 is not an official or scientific ranking. But it is based on hard fact, and on some data. It’s also based on up-to-the-minute input from travel-security experts, as well as government sources, especially the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisories , which, though they’re often pooh-poohed, are highly accurate.

This list doesn’t focus as much on pettier crimes that cause inconvenience—pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and so on, traumatizing as they may be—as it does on crimes that pose true danger, those that threaten loss of life or freedom.

It includes safety tips for each port that can help you prevent yourself from becoming a victim. As Aaron Laurich, a security-operations supervisor for Global Rescue , a travel risk and crisis management firm, puts it, “Passengers make ideal targets as they are unfamiliar with the area, are transient, stand out from the locals, and because of their perceived wealth.”

Elinore Boeke, a spokesperson for CLIA, the cruise industry trade association, assures potential passengers: “Cruise lines coordinate closely with national and international security and law-enforcement authorities around the globe to help ensure passenger security. In the event of any safety concerns, cruise ships have the flexibility to alter their itineraries as needed.” She adds, “Port facilities are strictly scrutinized,” and, “Providing for the safety and security of passengers and crew is the industry’s top priority.”

However, many experts, including Luke Bencie, the president of the global security consulting firm Security Management International (he’s also the author of Among Enemies: Counter-Espionage for the Business Traveler ), remain skeptical. “If you are using mega cruise ships to see the world,” Bencie says, “you are probably setting yourself up for an increased risk of violent crime.”

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The island of Roatán looks like a Caribbean paradise. It’s surrounded by crystalline waters that make for world-class beach and scuba experiences. It’s a deep shame, then, that its country, Honduras, has not been able to get its rate of violent crime under control. More than 40 American citizens have been murdered in Honduras since 2010. Since 2014, there have been taxi-cab rapes, Carnival cruise passengers held at gunpoint, and a Norwegian Cruise Line crew member shot and killed during a robbery. Most famously, Nedenia Post Dye, an heiress to the General Foods fortune, was stabbed to death in her Roatán spa. According to the U.S. Department of State, “Honduras lacks sufficient resources to properly respond to, investigate, and prosecute cases. As a result, criminals operate with a high degree of impunity. Since 2010, Honduras has had one of the highest murder rates in the world.” The State Department acknowledges that Roatán has a lower crime rate than the mainland but adds this about the island: “Thefts, break-ins, assaults, rapes, and murders do occur, and rates are still high by international standards.”

How to stay safe in Roatán: Never travel alone and avoid isolated places, including beaches. Book tours directly through your cruise line. Don’t display cash or other valuables, including jewelry. Stay away from Coxen Hole after dark. Lock car doors and keep car windows up. And keep your travel plans private; according to the State Department, criminals in Honduras “may conduct crimes based on tips from sources at airport arrival areas.”

The Sulu Sea is quickly becoming notorious. According to Laurich, “Terrorists and criminal organizations have begun to target tourists and foreigners for kidnapping” here. The State Department warns U.S. citizens to “avoid all nonessential travel to the Sulu Archipelago and through the southern Sulu Sea, and to exercise extreme caution when traveling to the island of Mindanao, due to continued terrorist threats, insurgent activities, and kidnappings.” Mindanao, an island which draws tourists who are interested in seeing lush scenery, stunning waterfalls, and emerald forests, has cities—including the port cities of Zamboanga and Dipolog—that also attract ISIS and related insurgent groups, who regularly kidnap foreigners and civilians for ransom. “Since January 2015, at least 15 separate kidnappings have been reported across Mindanao,” according to the State Department.

How to stay safe in Mindanao: It might be best to leave this part of the world alone until it figures out how to oust extremists. But should you find yourself here, heed Laurich’s advice: “Avoid the use of small boats through this area. Travel in groups with reputable tour companies. Plan shore excursions very carefully, and maintain a level of situational awareness at all times.”

5 Companies That Will Help You Be a Better Travel

Zoom in on the International Maritime Bureau’s grim (but fascinating) live piracy map , and you’ll see that the waters around Jakarta are a hotbed of piracy. The Strait of Malacca is one of the world’s worst places for maritime crime, so you probably don’t want to be in a boat there. “Pirate attacks in Indonesia are typically attacks aimed at thefts against the vessels,” according to the State Department. On January 14, 2016, coordinated terrorist attacks hit central Jakarta—suicide bombers hit a Starbucks and a shopping mall, aiming specifically at foreign nationals and police officers—four people, aside from the attackers, died. As for pettier crimes in Jakarta, the theft rate is high .

How to stay safe in Jakarta: Based on information from the State Department’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security, tourists in Jakarta—especially women—should avoid taking “disreputable and freelance taxis,” because drivers have been known to rob passengers at gunpoint. Stay vigilant in crowded places, where pickpocketing is likely, and avoid buses and trains when possible. Don’t ever leave a beverage unattended—“drugging a victim’s drink is common practice,” Laurich says. Stay out of Block M in South Jakarta, as well as the Ancol Port area and its drug-riddled nightclubs. And be aware that crime increases leading up to the Muslim month of Ramadan, which usually falls in June.

Bangladesh’s bustling capital is a river city where travelers come to take in temples, museums, parks and distinctive architecture. On July 1, 2016, terrorists attacked a cafe in Dhaka’s embassy district, taking hostages, then killing 23 people—mostly tourists, including a UC Berkeley sophomore and two Emory students. It’s the latest in what the State Department calls “a series of increasingly sophisticated violent attacks” in Dhaka since late 2015, which typically involve ISIS and Al-Qaida targeting foreign nationals. The siege prompted the U.S. Embassy in Bangladesh to predict that there may be more terrorist attacks to come. The State Department’s freshly updated travel advisory “warns U.S. citizens to consider carefully whether you need to travel to Bangladesh . . . The U.S. government assesses that the terrorist threat is real and credible.” In addition, as Ian Urbina wrote in his excellent New York Times series, " The Outlaw Ocean, " “Armed gangs run protection rackets requiring ship captains to pay for safe passage in the Bay of Bengal near Bangladesh.” His reporting uncovered that assaults have been happening in and near those waters for 20 years, with more than 700 fishermen killed in 2013 alone. When the Bangladeshi government tries to intervene during hostage-at-sea situations, the gangs engage in shootouts with the country’s Coast Guard. There haven’t been reports of these gangs attacking cruise ships, but that doesn’t mean they can’t or won’t.

How to stay safe in Dhaka: The U.S. government instructs its officials and their family members not to “visit public establishments or places in Bangladesh; travel on foot, motorcycle, bicycle, rickshaw, or other uncovered means on public thoroughfares and sidewalks in Bangladesh; or attend large gatherings in Bangladesh.” Other Americans should follow suit, “take stringent security measures, remain vigilant, and be alert to local security developments.”

Tunis, a fascinating city at Africa’s northern tip, sits on the Mediterranean Sea across from Italy. It’s rich with ruins, art, and Grecian seaside neighborhoods. Unfortunately, it hasn’t been easy on visitors lately. In March 2015, the MSC Splendida and the Costa Fascinosa were in port, and passengers disembarked for an excursion to the Bardo National Museum. When they were getting off the bus, terrorists opened fire, killing 22 and injuring more than 40. Three months later, in June, a gunman who was specifically targeting tourists opened fire on a crowded beach about 90 miles south of Tunis, killing 39. In November, terrorists attacked security forces in downtown Tunis. The State Department’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security puts Tunisia’s terrorism rating at “critical,” and reports that “a significant rate of violent crimes (homicides, sexual assaults, personal robberies, residential break-ins) and nonviolent crimes (financial scams, vehicle thefts, petty drug offenses) exist in Tunis.”

How to stay safe in Tunis: The U.S. government advises against travel to certain parts of Tunisia, while the British government advises “against all but essential travel” to any of the country. If you find yourself in Tunis, though, here’s the State Department’s guidance : “Avoid political gatherings, rallies, large crowds and demonstrations; be alert to the possibility of kidnapping; report suspicious activity to the local police; and carry a copy of your passport and a cell phone or other means of communication.” To dissuade pickpocketers, purse-snatchers, and other thieves, act alert and confident, dress modestly, and keep valuables hidden on your person. Avoid ATMs—Laurich says they “allow criminals to identify a target for immediate or later robberies”—and be extra cautious in high-traffic tourist areas like the Tunis Medina. “If you are confronted by an assailant displaying a lethal weapon or threatening violence” in Tunisia, a U.S. government report recommends , “attempt to de-escalate the situation by immediately turning over your valuables without comment.” The report also includes that old classic: “Travel in groups, especially in remote areas during nighttime hours.”

Is Your Cruise Ship Prepared for a Terrorist Attack?

Two words: Drug. Cartels. As Grasso puts it, “locations known to be source, transit, or destination points for drug trafficking, including Venezuela, should trigger warning bells.” As a nation, Venezuela holds the dubious distinction of having the world’s highest crime rate. Venezuela’s government is also relatively complicit in the nation’s high rate of human trafficking. On Margarita Island, a gorgeous little dot in the Caribbean Sea, a passenger on the Carnival-owned Aida Luna was killed during an armed robbery at a tourist shop in 2014. A half-hour flight east of Margarita Island, Caracas is the world’s current murder capital, and many other Venezuelan cities are in the top 20 . Plus, “incidents of piracy and robbery at sea have occurred off the coast of Venezuela,” according to the State Department. “In recent years, a U.S. citizen on a private vessel was severely beaten by robbers who boarded the vessel, and another U.S. citizen sailor was attacked with a machete.” In another document , the State Department flat-out says: “Anchoring offshore is not considered safe. Marinas, including those in Puerto la Cruz and Margarita Island (Porlamar), provide only minimal security, and U.S. citizens should exercise a heightened level of caution in Venezuelan waters. Our government’s official Venezuela travel advisory warns that "violent crime—including murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking—is endemic throughout the country.” Bencie adds: “There’s a reason why cruises are so cheap to Latin America. These struggling economies mean that police protection is minimized, unemployment and inflation are high, and criminals are likely to be more aggressive.” Last year, the Los Angeles Times reported , that though Latin America accounts for 8.5% of the world's population, it accounts for 27% of the world’s murders, most of which are by gunshot.

How to stay safe on Margarita Island: Stay very alert. “Armed robberies take place throughout the country, including in areas generally presumed safe and frequented by tourists. Street crime can occur anywhere and at any time of the day or night,” according to the U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs. Keep a low profile, carry little to no cash, and don’t display any form of wealth. Steer clear of gatherings and political demonstrations, and avoid taxis, buses, and ATMs. Do not fly in to start a cruise in Venezuela: “Travel to and from Maiquetía International Airport near Caracas is particularly dangerous,” the Bureau continues, so much so that U.S. government personnel always travel by armored vehicle. Resist the urge to check out Avila National Park, or to partake in outdoor activities, unless you’re traveling in a group of at least five people. Perhaps above all, do not get arrested. Though Venezuela signed the Vienna Convention, its government “ sometimes fails to notify the U.S. Embassy when U.S. citizens are arrested, and/or delays or denies consular access to arrestees.” (As Laurich reminds us, “Penalties for illicit drug use in most countries are usually much more severe outside of the U.S.”)

Hurricane-Proof Caribbean Vacations

Sorry, IOC, it has to be said. Rio is dangerous. The fact that it was the original breeding ground for the recent Zika virus outbreak hardly needs rehashing—the CDC has even issued a special travel notice for those traveling to the Olympics. But even if you’re not of reproductive age, Rio’s not necessarily somewhere you want to be if you value your health and safety. Its beaches teem with ”shocking levels” of “super bacteria” , plus other forms of pollution, thanks to the lovely fact that Brazil, as a nation, dumps raw sewage into the ocean. And that’s not to speak of the crime. “In Brazil, the likelihood of catching a criminal who robs a tourist is usually less than 20 percent,” says Bencie. “Plus, with all the problems currently facing that country, your purse being snatched or necklace ripped from your throat is not a high priority.” In Rio specifically, thieves run rampant on beaches and the crime level is categorized as “ very high ” and getting worse.

How to stay safe in Rio de Janeiro: Well, don’t go in the ocean. Use anything you can to ward off mosquitoes—DEET, protective clothing, air conditioning, the whole deal. Don’t stand next to standing water. Practice safe sex, or abstain (yes, Zika is mosquito-borne but it’s also sexually transmitted). Make sure your vaccines are up to date before you go. And pack a travel health kit . (The CDC’s full advice sheet is here .) To sidestep crime, the State Department advises , “Pay close attention to your surroundings and the behavior of those nearby. There have been reports of thieves and rapists slipping incapacitating drugs into drinks at bars, hotel rooms, and street parties. While crime occurs throughout the year, it is more frequent during Carnival and the weeks prior.” If robbed, the advice continues, don’t resist or fight—just hand over your stuff. Avoid Rio’s favelas, and know that there have been carjackings and shootings on the Linha Vermelha, the expressway that links the airport and the city’s tourist-heavy Southern Zone.

Though its beaches are lovely, Port Harcourt is deadly. It’s best for travelers to steer entirely clear of the Gulf of Guinea, which the International Crisis Group calls “one of the most dangerous maritime areas in the world,” as well as the Niger Delta, which ICG has called the “epicentre of maritime crime.” Port Harcourt has also seen its share of pirate attacks, and a bloody, oil-fueled conflict has been going on in this region since the 1990s—a new extremist group, called the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) emerged in March 2016. Add them to a list of other terror-wreaking groups that operate here, including Boko Haram, which has perpetuated dozens of ruthless attacks in northern Nigeria, including kidnapping thousands of women and children. The State Department reports that Boko Haram has a thing for “targeting foreign expatriates, tourists, and government leaders.”

How to stay safe in Port Harcourt: Many Western governments, including ours , the U.K.’s , and Canada’s , vehemently advise against traveling to Nigeria. Should you find yourself there, though (despite their government’s warning, some 117,000 British nationals visit Nigeria every year), avoid crowded places, be extremely vigilant, and keep others informed of your travel plans.

These days, cruises don’t go to Syria or Iraq. But they do go to Izmit. Which makes it the closest place to the ISIS wars that extremists can get by cruise ship—an opportunity of which they’re definitely taking advantage , especially since cruise ports are more lax about security than airports. Izmit is 65 miles from Istanbul, a city which, Laurich says, “is reeling from a recent spate of high-profile terrorist attacks”—including one on June 28, 2016, during which 45 travelers were killed at the Ataturk international airport. Aside from having earned itself a spot as a prime destination for terrorists on cruises, it’s also worth noting that Izmit is in an active earthquake zone and doesn’t build anywhere close to U.S. seismic standards—a 1999 quake that lasted just 37 seconds and registered a 7.4 on the Richter scale killed more than 17,000 people and injured almost 44,000.

How to stay safe in Izmit: When docking in Turkey, Laurich says, “Avoid public transportation and don’t linger near police or government infrastructure. Pack lightly while on shore excursion and, most importantly, wear comfortable shoes. When the need to move quickly comes, you do not want to be wearing flip-flops.”

The Gulf of Aden, which has floated cruises operated by Costa and Silversea (the itineraries were marketed as Suez Canal and Red Sea tours) is one of the world’s worst places for piracy. “The waters off the coast of Somalia are dangerous enough that cruise ships turn off their GPS broadcasts and exterior lights when sailing that area,” says Tynan, who doesn’t use a last name, and who founded Cruisesheet.com . Somali pirates are not at all above attacking cruise ships (most cruises don’t dock at Mogadishu) but even if they were, you wouldn’t want to visit violent Aden, which has been the recent target of terror attacks—on July 6, 2016, a suicide bombing killed 10 near Aden’s airport. Yemen is currently at war and has been since 2015, as the government battles Houthi rebels, al-Qaida, and ISIS. According to the State Department’s “Worldwide Caution” sheet , “In Yemen, the security situation has deteriorated greatly since 2014, necessitating the suspension of operations of the U.S. Embassy in February 2015,” adding that al-Qaida and ISIS “remain threats to U.S. citizens.”

How to stay safe in Aden: If you’re scheduled on a cruise that stops in Aden, the U.S. government strongly recommends that you “defer” it. “The level of instability and ongoing threats, including the threat of kidnapping, in Yemen is severe,” the warning goes on. The U.K. tells its citizens: “The British government can’t provide any form of assisted departure to British nationals in Yemen. There are no evacuation procedures in place.” For those who still choose to go, the British government does provide advice : “Regularly reassess your security arrangements and carefully plan your movements . . . Avoid all road travel outside the main cities at night. Take care to avoid minefields left over from civil wars and landmines used in the current conflict. Travelling off well-used tracks without an experienced guide could be extremely dangerous.”

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15 nightmarish facts that will make you never want to set foot on a cruise ship

• Cruise ships can be wonderful, but they aren't exempt from disturbing occurrences.
• Cruise ships are legally required to have morgues aboard.
• Overflowing toilets aren't as uncommon as you'd hope.

Cruise ships sound like a luxurious way to knock a few locations off your bucket list — at their best, they're paradisiacal wonderlands, filled with interesting people from all walks of life, mountainous buffets, and a plethora of activities.

But sometimes, they can go very, very wrong.

Some cruise ships have been given failing grades by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. After reading reports about overflowing sewage, secret morgues, and bedbug infestations, you might think they sound more sinister than you had previously realized.

From sinkings to sewage, here are 15 horrible facts about cruise ships that may keep you firmly on land.

The chances of a ship sinking is slim, but it's not an impossibility.

In 2013, The New York Times reported that 16 cruise ships sank between 1980 and 2012.

The ships that sink generally either travel through rough waters — such as the Antarctic Ocean — or belong to smaller cruise lines. One of the most fatal ship sinkings occurred in 1994, when 800 people died on a ship that sank in the Baltic Sea, the Times reported.

One of the most famous sinkings in recent history was that of the Costa Concordia. In 2012, the Italian cruise ship hit rocks off Giglio Island, partially sinking and killing 32 people. Its captain was found guilty of manslaughter in 2015. He denied the charges.

In fact, the ship only partially sank and, more accurately, ran aground. This is a more common scenario, according to The New York Times' report. Cruise expert Ross A. Klein told the publication that 98 cruise ships ran aground between 1972 and 2011, or  about 2.5 ships every year .

What's more common than sinking is a ship getting stranded.

Though cruise trips are built with relaxation in mind, the journey isn't always smooth.

In March 2019, over 1,300 passengers were left stranded when the Viking Sky luxury cruise ship ran into engine troubles off the coast of Norway. Over 400 people had to be rescued from the boat , of which 28 people were transported to hospital. 

"Throughout all of this, our first priority was for the safety and well-being of our passengers and our crew," the cruise line said in a statement after the incident, according to USA Today . "We would like to thank the Norwegian Redningssentral and the Norwegian emergency services for their support and skill displayed in managing the situation in very challenging weather conditions."

Unfortunately, there have been reported incidences of deaths on cruises.

It sounds macabre, but it happens — and more often than you'd think. According to a 2023 report from  Newsweek , a study published in the International Journal of Travel Medicine and Global Health found that there were 623 reported deaths on cruise ships between 2000 and 2019. 

The study concluded that, for passengers, falls were the most common cause of cruise deaths, followed by cardiac arrests and suicides. For crew members, suicide, murder, and falls were the leading causes of death.

Cruise ships are required to have morgues on board.

Cruise ships are legally required to carry body bags and maintain a morgue — they typically have space for three or four bodies, depending on the size of the ship, The Telegraph reported in 2015.

A Carnival spokesperson told Cruise Critic in 2020 that its cruise line also has a "Care Team" whose members are specifically trained to deal with grieving passengers.

The size of the morgue depends on the size of the ship. Should there not be enough space, crew members may have to get creative. In 2017, a person who identified themselves as a former cruise-ship employee on Reddit broke down what happens when someone on a ship dies.

"There were small refrigerators on the ships that, from memory, could take one or two corpses, but the contingency plan was to use a walk-in freezer," the poster wrote.

Overflowing toilets aren't uncommon.

Toilets can overflow on cruise ships. In 2017,  Reddit user Phantomsplit , who claims to have worked on cruise ships, wrote, "You would be amazed at what people will flush down the toilet. Pool noodles, t-shirts, shoes...pretty much anything that people don't want to pack with them when they leave."

According to the Daily Mail , in 2013, one Carnival cruise ship flew passengers home a few days into a voyage after it experienced a variety of complications, including overflowing toilets. Gregg Stark, a passenger who anticipated a week-long trip with his wife and children, reported that he saw what he described as "human waste" all over some of the ship's bathroom floors.

Carnival released a statement and referred to the toilet issue as an "interruption" to "restroom service." Passengers were refunded for three days of the trip and given a 50 percent discount for their next trip with the cruise line.

Cruise ships dump huge amounts of sewage into the ocean.

While many cruise lines have installed advanced wastewater-treatment systems, according to a 2022 report by environmental organization Friends of the Earth, the US Environmental Protection Agency estimates that a 3,000-person cruise ship emits 150,000 gallons of sewage each week, which amounts to over 1 billion gallons of sewage a year across the cruise industry. 

Sewage can be harmful to both humans and sea creatures. According to the organization's report , "Seafood consumers, beachgoers, surfers, and water sport enthusiasts can contract illnesses, gastrointestinal diseases, diarrhea, ear nose and throat problems, vomiting, hepatitis, and respiratory diseases, when exposed to sewage- contaminated waters or seafood."

Further, marine life "can suffocate due to surplus nitrogen and phosphorous from ship sewage that can promote excessive algal growth which reduces available oxygen levels in the water," according to the report.

In addition to polluting the ocean, cruise ships emit pollution into the air.

Many cruise companies have made attempts to institute more eco-friendly practices, but a 2016 report by German NGO NABU said European cruise ships were pumping out 3,500 times more sulphur dioxide than vehicles on land, The Telegraph reported.

Daniel Rieger, a researcher at NABU, told the publication that cruise ships are "damaging global climate and human health."

NABU also found that air quality on cruise ships can be around 20 times worse than air in a busy city center .

Fires and explosions can — and have — happened.

According to a 2015 report from research firm G.P. Wild, approximately 60 people per year are injured on cruise ships due to "operational mishaps," which can range from small fires on the ship to actual explosions, collisions, and ships sinking or getting stranded.

In 2022, part of a Carnival cruise ship erupted into flames while it was docked in Grand Turk island. Soon after the incident, Carnival's public relations manager, Matt Lupoli, announced that all passengers and crew members were safe.

Keeping food fresh can be tough.

Cruise ships must feed thousands of people multiple times a day, and do so with food that's stored on board for the duration of the cruise.

Nearly 200 passengers on board one of Royal Caribbean's cruise ships  contracted a gastrointestinal illness after indulging in the "bottomless brunch" in December 2017.

In regards to the issue, a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said, "We hope all our guests feel better. Meanwhile, we're taking steps like intensive sanitary procedures to minimise the risk of any further issues."

Around 129,678 cruise-ship guests contracted a gastrointestinal illness between the years 2008 to 2014, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention .

In the span of eight years, 150 people went overboard on cruises and ferries.

According to a report released for the Cruise Lines International Association in 2016 by G.P. Wild, between 2009 and 2016, an average of approximately 19 people go overboard on cruise ships and ferries each year. Over that period, there were 150 overboard incidents — and the person who went overboard was only rescued in about one fourth of incidents.

Cruise ships are certainly not exempt from crime.

Although cruises are supposed to provide passengers with an escape from reality, crime still occurs at sea.

In 2016 alone, 70 percent of alleged crimes on cruise ships were sexual assaults — there were 62 reported sexual assaults  out of 92 total alleged crimes, NBC News reported.

Pirate attacks aren't just in the movies.

While rare, pirate attacks do happen.

In 2005, a Seabourn Cruise Lines ship that had 150 passengers on board  managed to evade an attack by armed Somali pirates.

In 2009, the Piracy Reporting Center of the International Maritime Bureau claimed that pirates along the coast of Somalia had attacked a whopping 214 vessels that year , which resulted in 47 hijackings. 

According to The Telegraph, in 2017, passengers on the Sea Princess departing from Sydney were subjected to a 10-day dusk-til-dawn blackout to avoid a perceived pirate threat.

Bedbugs and other pests often find their way onboard.

"What was supposed to be a relaxing vacation turned into a nightmare!" Cruise Critic user gordon046 wrote after discovering bedbugs on their cruise in 2016.

Bedbugs aren't always the fault of the cruise line — according to Vance Gulliksen , a spokesperson for Carnival Cruise Lines, bed bugs are often brought onto the a ship through passengers' luggage. 

When cruise ships lose power, it can affect the sewage system.

Power outages on ships can lead to various problems.

The Carnival Triumph cruise ship famously caught fire and subsequently lost power in the Gulf of Mexico in February 2013. For five days, passengers were subjected to raw, rising sewage after the plumbing system collapsed, propelling the media to nickname the debacle " The Poop Cruise ."

The 3,143 passengers aboard the ship reported scarce electricity, water shortages, dwindling food supplies, and "sewage running down the walls and floors." Eventually, the Triumph was towed to Mobile, Alabama.

According to Business Insider , Carnival offered passengers refunds, credits to put toward future cruises, and $500. 

Cruise ships can become hot spots for the spread of infectious diseases like COVID-19.

With thousands of people living in close quarters, sharing amenities, and unable to escape the premises, the conditions of a cruise ship can be the perfect environment for the spread of contagious diseases. The CDC's website has a page dedicated to cruise-ship travel to warn prospective passengers of — and help them prepare for — the elevated risk of infection on the vessels.  

One of the first documented COVID-19 outbreaks occurred on a Carnival cruise ship. In February 2020, when little was known about COVID-19, Carnival Cruise's Diamond Princess ship became a vector for the spread of the illness . Ultimately, over 700 of the Diamond Princess' 2,666 passengers tested positive for the virus. 

On February 27, 2020, Princess Cruises put out a statement which detailed its proposed solution to the issue, saying it had hired a medical firm to provide care — including daily health checks, laundry, and meals — for passengers at a quarantine facility in Japan.

When the Centers for Disease Control began tracking the virus in the United States, one of its first reports stated that about 17% of known cases in the US were recent cruise passengers.

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What Are The Most Dangerous Cruise Destinations?

Written by Charles R. Lipcon Charles R. Lipcon is the firm’s founder and one of the preeminent maritime attorneys in the United States. Mr. Lipcon has been handling maritime lawsuits – including personal injury, wrongful death, sexual assault and rape – for over 40 years. In that time, he and his firm have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for their clients.

Going on a cruise is meant to be a relaxing and carefree experience. After all, what could be better than a few days of sunning yourself at sea and exploring your excursions? Lately, it seems that there are more reasons than ever to embark on a cruise. Unless, of course, your destinations pose a threat to your personal safety.

As educated travelers, it’s important to know which ports of call you don’t want to see on your itinerary. So if you’ve been wondering, “what are the most dangerous cruise destinations?” then we’re here to answer your questions. We’ve compiled information from  sources  around  the web , as well as our personal experience with handling different cases within the maritime law context, to offer a comprehensive overview of the locations where you’ll want to be extra aware of your surroundings…or avoid altogether.

In The Caribbean

The first port you’ll want to look out for is St.Lucia. Robbery and attacks on tourists are not uncommon here.

The U.S. Virgin Islands is another hot location for violence. The island’s weak economy has led many to turn to violence against tourists. And while the government is attempting to stimulate the economy to reverse this problem, it’s best to still be on the lookout.

Antigua, though beautiful, has a murder rate three times that of New York City. Although the crimes may not be specifically targeted towards tourists, this is still something to keep in mind if you plan to spend some time here.

St. Kitts and Nevis should raise some red flags for all tourists, as visitors to the island have been robbed at gunpoint. This is not a destination you’ll want to explore on your own, especially after dark.

While the Bahamas are a beloved destination for cruise-goers everywhere, they too pose their own crime concerns. Tourists will be safe if they stay in their resort areas, but venturing out into the rest of the island–where the locals live and work (and where you may likely standout)– may make you a very desirable target.

In Central America

Mexico is a popular destination for many U.S. tourists as it’s within such easy reach from our Southern borders. However, travel to this country could include some less than enjoyable experiences. The country is known to have rampant crime and drug cartels, with tourists sometimes getting caught in the crossfires.

Not far from Mexico, El Salvador has a particularly high incidence of crime. With murder rates going off the charts, you may want to re-evaluate any time you plan to spend there.

Honduras has long been a popular spot for vacationers inspired by the natural beauty of this Central American gem. However, Roatan especially is a port to watch out for. Since 2010, upwards of 40 American citizens have been murdered here; perhaps not surprising, as this country has one of the highest murder rates in the world. Taxi-cab rapes, robberies at gunpoint, and general violence towards tourists characterize this scenic vacation spot.

Although Guatemala often attracts wide-eyed tourists with its beauty and amazing fresh fruits, tourists should be weary of stopping here. Theft and armed robbery are not uncommon, even in daylight hours.

Rounding out the list here is Belize, which suffers from similar murder statistics, in addition to being a hotbed of gang violence and illegal drug activity.

In South America

Colombia, with its reputation for drugs and violence is not an especially surprising addition to this list. The heavy involvement in the narcotics trade brings the usual increased violence, murder, and general unrest that you might expect. But, recent reports say that kidnappings are down in recent years.

Margarita Island, Venezuela is a common port of call for cruise ships. Unfortunately, the entire country is awash with poverty, crime, narcotics and human trafficking, making it an especially dicey place for tourists to explore. The country has one of the highest rates of crime and drug cartels, with a government that is mostly complicit with the outrageous levels of human trafficking there. The government is also inconsistent with reporting when U.S. citizens are arrested. So if you do visit, make sure you abide by the law.

The problems in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil came to light on the international stage with the Olympics in 2016. Here, disease may just outweigh crime in terms of most dangerous issues at play. This was the original breeding ground for the Zika virus, and possibly many more viruses, considering that the country dumps raw sewage into the water. However, that’s not to say that violent crime is nonexistent. It is very much in effect. This is perhaps due to the fact that the likelihood of catching a criminal who has robbed a tourist is less than 20%. According to reports, thieves abound on beaches, and crime is only getting worse.

The Philippines are an alluring cruise destination for many. However, the Sulu Sea is gaining a reputation for the kind of violence that most people will want to avoid. Extremist activity in Mindanao, in addition to kidnappings, violence, human trafficking, and methamphetamine production in Manila make this one country you may want to skip.

Jakarta, Indonesia is another port of call that has caught our attention due to the high rates of piracy in the waters, petty crimes, and suicide bombers specifically targeting foreign tourists.

If you were considering going to Dhaka, Bangladesh, you’ll likely want to reconsider. Crime against foreign travelers has increased there since 2015, mostly related to ISIS activity. The U.S. Government warns that, “The terrorist threat is real and credible.”

In Africa and the Middle East

Many tourists travel to Israel without a problem each year. However, there have been reports of rocket shrapnel landing on cruise ship decks near the port of Ashdod. The ports of Heifa and Eilat are also especially close to conflict zones.

Speaking of conflict, Izmit, Turkey is the port closest to ISIS activity in Syria and Iraq. It is also just 65 miles from Istanbul, which has suffered from a series of terrorist attacks in recent years.

Due to wars raging in Yemen since 2015, ports in the Gulf of Aden, and Aden specifically, are contentious ports of call. The terror activity is so prevalent here, that cruise ships are known to turn off GPS and any other means by which they could be identified by parties looking to hijack the ship.

Similarly, Tunis, Tunisia should be avoided as well. The U.S. places Tunisia’s terrorism levels at “critical” due to a “significant” amount of both violent and non-violent crime taking place in the area.

Across the continent, the Ivory Coast has been a known location for tourist-targeted violence, in addition to narcotics and money laundering.

And nearby Nigeria, specifically Port Harcourt, has one of the most dangerous maritime areas of the world. The location is basically a no-go zone with Boko Haram active in the country.

How To Stay Safe

First, before you travel, it’s always a good idea to check the US Department of State website for travel warnings and advisories.  We often argue that when there are warnings of violent crimes in cruise ports of call, the cruise lines should be bringing these official US warnings to their passengers’ attention before the ship arrives in port.

Also, in general, it’s a good idea to travel in groups, book with a trusted tour company, and stick to the itinerary–no wandering off in places you’ve never been before.

As a tourist, you’ll likely stick out wherever you travel, so it’s important to minimize the opportunities thieves may have to stage an attack. Stay alert in crowded places, be mindful of your jewelry, and do not explore after dark.

Unfortunately, personal injury can take place on a cruise vacation when you least expect it. And if it does, we are here to help. A maritime attorney on our team can make a world of difference. We have represented clients  around the world  with cases against many major cruise lines. So you can rest assured that we have the necessary experience to achieve the results you deserve.  Contact us  to find out more.

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Published on April 5, 2017

Categories: Cruise Ship Accidents , Vacation Accidents

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The 15 Most Dangerous Places To Cruise To In The World

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Tragic tales of unsuspecting tourists who fall victim to scams or — worse — serious crimes, make for sensational headlines. It happens commonly enough to dampen the enthusiasm of even the most dedicated travelers. Thankfully, cruise lines and global tourism boards know it’s in their best interests financially to keep their guests safe and happy. Still, you might want to give extra care and consideration if you’re planning to make these following destinations your next port of call.

These are the 15 most dangerous places in the world to take a cruise.

1. El Salvador

El Salvador’s natural beauty is hard to resist, but its dubious distinction of having one of the world’s highest murder rates is hard to ignore. If you’re committed to exploring here, take caution and do your research. This piece gives a good balance of the risks and rewards of the country.

2. Roatan, Honduras

Cruise fans, beware. The Honduran judicial system lacks sufficient resources to cope with the country’s high rate of violent crime and offers little deterrent to criminals. As such, Honduras has a high rate of murder and other violent crimes such as armed robbery and sexual assault. Avoiding remote areas and traveling after dark, and always book shore excursions with long-established, trusted operators. These are the most sensible steps you can take to minimize danger.

3. Mindanao, Philippines

In Mindanao and the surrounding area of the Sulu Sea, garden-variety dangers such as armed robbery are the least of anyone’s worries. Instead, terrorist and criminal operatives are thriving on a deadly game of kidnapping for ransom. While the stunning shores may be calling your name, think long and hard before planning a cruise that includes Mindanao and take your government’s most recent advisories into account.

4. Tunis, Tunisia

The city of Tunis combines of gorgeous architecture, charming streets, lovely shops, and delicious food. Unfortunately, recent terrorist activity has left an ugly scar on the city, even more so since cruise ship tourists have been targeted. At the Bardo National Museum, the “Louvre of Africa” bullet holes from terrorist attacks mar the priceless exhibits . If this is a destination you can’t resist, take heed of your government’s latest security advisory, avoid nighttime travel, and choose well-respected, long-established tour operators.

Paolo Costa / Shutterstock

5. Margarita Island, Venezuela

Margarita Island would be a strong contender for the title of “World’s Most Beautiful Island”. Unfortunately, it is equally qualified as one of the most dangerous. The volatile Venezuelan economy, armed robberies and kidnappings that occur in broad daylight, and a government that’s complicit in most crimes means that there are few resources dedicated to protecting tourists. Staying safe here means keeping a low profile, attracting no attention — and staying far away from illicit drugs. That’s smart advice for all destinations, but especially so in Venezuela, where drug-related offences carry very harsh penalties.

6. St. Kitts and Nevis

While many travelers report having a wonderful time on these lovely islands, there is a significant wealth gap between the local residents and the comparatively flush tourists who flood the ports of call. As such, robberies aren’t unheard of and crimes of financial opportunity are a concern. If you decide to go and indulge in some of their delectable cocktails , keep your wits about you.

7. Izmit, Turkey

With terrorist attacks in nearby Istanbul and its position in an active earthquake zone, Izmit isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s “the closest place to the ISIS wars that extremists can reach by cruise ship — an opportunity of which they’re definitely taking advantage, especially since cruise ports are more lax about security than airports.” Yikes!

8. St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

For a destination that purports to be family-friendly, there’s a high rate of drug use, robbery, and murder in St. Thomas and the US Virgin Islands. Their nearby counterparts, the British Virgin Islands, boast an extremely low crime rate by comparison, but there’s another danger to consider. The roads are poor quality, rocky and steep, with no real lighting at night. You’re required to drive on the left hand side of the road, just like in Great Britain. Best to leave driving here to the experts.

9. The Ivory Coast

A gateway to western Africa, travelers love the Ivory Coast for its proximity to amazing game drives and exceptional birdlife. However, terrorism is a concern here, and in 2016 Islamist gunmen fired on a popular tourist resort. The capital city and port of call, Abidjan, had the dubious distinction of being ranked 23rd on a 2016 list of the worst places to live in the world.

Alucardion / Shutterstock

10. Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Sometimes the concept of what is or is not dangerous is a matter of personal opinion. But Port Harcourt, on the Gulf of Guinea, isn’t a destination that’s up for debate. The region’s been called the most dangerous maritime area in the world and an epicentre of maritime crime. Constant threats of piracy and terrorism make this a no-go destination for even the most adventurous of travelers.

11. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio is an intoxicating city — and a perilous one as well. Pickpockets thrive on the city’s famous beaches (as do pollution and bacteria from raw sewage) and more aggressive thieves operate at night. Health threats from the Zika virus remain problematic, and the legendary party scene is marred by drugs slipped into drinks. Guides like this one can help you navigate Carnival safely.

12. Dhaka, Bangladesh

Say what you will about the criminal gangs of Dhaka, but you can’t deny that they’re organized. They coordinate their efforts to extort ship captains into buying safe passage through the Bay of Bengal. But when the negotiations don’t go smoothly and the authorities intervene, ships are caught in the crossfire of shootouts between gangs and the Coast Guard. Hundreds of fishermen die every year at the hands of marine criminals and tourists aren’t immune to the violence either.

13. Jakarta, Indonesia

Piracy thrives around the Indonesian capital, and troublemakers are equally problematic onshore. Popular tourist hotspots like Starbucks coffee shops have been targeted by terrorist attacks, and more run-of-the-mill problems like petty crime are common. In Jakarta’s hot nightclubs, it’s not unusual to hear of drinks being spiked and for the waiting unofficial taxis to double as the scenes of robberies and assaults.

14. Aden, Yemen

Safety and security have sharply deteriorated in recent years as Yemen finds itself the victim of a civil war and a U.S.-backed Saudi intervention in that civil war. The death toll is catastrophic. Aden, a once beautiful port with a great coffee scene , is suffering. Somali pirates like to hang out here, and there was a terrorist attack at the airport in 2016. If your cruise itinerary includes a “Red Sea tour”, Aden may well be your stop and you might want to think twice.

15. Venice, Italy

Aside from the usual worries, like pickpockets and stumbling on a cobblestone, Venice is the furthest thing from a dangerous cruise destination. But it’s deserving of a spot in this list because there is danger here. Only this time it’s the destination that’s in danger, not the visitors! In recent years, tourism in Venice has exceeded the city’s capacity to sustain itself in a way that’s protective of its history, architecture, and Venetians themselves. And cruise day trippers are a significant part of the congestion. If you do visit — and it’s hard not to feel the call of this gorgeous city — choose a shore excursion provider that’s committed to sustainability. You’ll be helping to preserve the city for subsequent cruise passengers AND your choice will take you away from the hordes that line Rialto Bridge. That’s a winning combination!

Interested in reading more about the damage tourism is going to the floating city? Read Why Future Generations May Not See Venice .

Vanessa Chiasson is an award-winning freelance writer, editor, and blogger from Canada bringing warmth and depth to travel and human interest narratives. In the industry since 2012, Vanessa coaches writers from all backgrounds, areas of focus, and experience levels on developing business strategies that support their artistic endeavors. She chronicles her cozy travel adventures at TurnipseedTravel .

HeinOnline Blog

Dangerous waters: crimes on cruise ships.

• By Stephanie Jacobson
• April 22, 2022
• Criminal Justice

Did you take a vacation for spring break? Perhaps you and your family booked a cruise and sailed to warmer waters, sandy beaches, and exciting shore excursions. Hopefully on that cruise, you enjoyed a great buffet, amazing live entertainment, and swam in a pool with a giant curling water slide. Hopefully nothing happened on your vacation that forced you to swim in the murky legal waters that govern cruising when the vacation goes awry. When an assault, robbery, or even a murder happens aboard a cruise ship, different jurisdictions apply than those passengers may be familiar with while on land. Using HeinOnline, let’s explore some of the legal issues surrounding cruise ship crime.

Cruising into Trouble

Amy lynn bradley.

In March 1998, 23-year-old Amy Lynn Bradley took a Royal Caribbean cruise with her parents and brother, Brad. Their destination was the island of Curaçao in the Dutch Antilles, and they were sailing aboard the Rhapsody of the Seas . The ship sailed out from San Juan on March 21, 1998 to Aruba, its first port of call. On March 23, the Rhapsody of the Seas left Aruba and headed through international waters towards Curaçao. That night, Amy and Brad attended a Mardi Gras party at the ship’s onboard nightclub, where they danced and drank with members of the ship’s band. At the end of the evening’s revelries, the siblings returned to the family’s cabin around 3:30 in the morning and sat together on the suite’s balcony until Brad retired to bed. Sometime around 5:30 am, their father, Ron, awoke and saw Brad asleep in his bed and Amy sleeping on the balcony. Assured his children were safe, Ron went back to sleep. But when he woke again about 30 minutes later, Amy was gone. She was never seen again.

George Smith IV

Regulatory tides sweep in.

Those wishing to see an archive of these reports can do so on the Department of Transportation’s website, with the most recent report covering January—March 2021; unsurprisingly, given the immense disruption to cruising due to the COVID-19 pandemic, only one incident , a sexual assault, appears on the latest report.

Smooth(er) Sailing, but Rough Waters Remain

Sea of Knowledge

Did you know that HeinOnline has a dedicated subcollection on the law of the sea? Within our History of International Law collection, users will find our Law of the Sea subcollection, containing hundreds of titles relating to the policing of international waters, maritime law, and an assortment of issues relating to the oceans, such as salvage, commercial shipping, and maritime disasters.

One of our favorite ways to research is to find Congressional hearings on a topic. The debates of Congress shed light on how lawmakers react to issues, the issues they find worthy of federal attention, and their proposed solutions, often contrasted with the legislation, if any, that is actually passed.

HeinOnline contains thousands of Congressional hearings. Users looking for a place to start can navigate into the Congressional Hearings subcollection in the U.S. Congressional Documents collection. From there, use the one-box search feature to perform a proximity search that looks for the words cruise and ship occurring within five words of each other, along with the word crime .

PathFinder subjects will appear as one of the options to help filter down our search results. Relevant subjects users may want to choose from include Law of the Sea , International Law , and Maritime Law .

Be sure to throw your research a lifebuoy by subscribing to the HeinOnline Blog to receive all our latest research tips, tricks, content news, and more posts just like this one.

HeinOnline Sources [ + ]

Stephanie Jacobson

• Tags: history of international law , law journal library , u.s. congressional documents , u.s. statutes at large , united nations law collection

Heinous Histories: The Arrest and Trial of Lizzie Borden

On August 4, 1892, a horrifying event occurred in the Borden home, chilling Fall River, Massachusetts. Daughter Lizzie Borden discovered her parents’ lifeless bodies. Did she stumble upon the nightmare or craft it herself?

Special Purpose Grand Jury Report Now Available in HeinOnline

On September 8, the report from the special purpose grand jury in Georgia, which suggested charges in the 2020 election interference investigation conducted by the Fulton County district attorney, was made public and is now searchable in HeinOnline.

Heinous Histories: The Murder of Mary Phagan

In the dim and musty confines of a factory basement, the lifeless body of Mary Phagan, was stumbled upon by a lone night watchman. Let’s venture into the annals of history using the World Trials Library and unearth the secrets to this crime.

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Nearly 30 Silversea cruise passengers get sick in gastrointestinal illness outbreak

More than two dozen Silversea Cruises passengers got sick in a gastrointestinal illness outbreak.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 28 of Silver Nova’s 633 guests reported being ill during a voyage that began on March 31, along with one of the vessel’s crew members. Their main symptom was diarrhea.

The health agency listed the causative agent as unknown.

Silversea notified guests and crew of the outbreak via announcements and encouraged them to report cases and practice “good hand hygiene,” the CDC said. The line also isolated those who were sick and implemented heightened cleaning and disinfection measures.

"The health and safety of our guests, crew, and the communities we visit are our top priority," Silversea told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. "To maintain an environment that supports the highest levels of health and safety onboard our ships, we implement rigorous cleaning procedures, many of which far exceed public health guidelines." The cruise began in Peru and is set to end in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Tuesday, according to CruiseMapper .

The news comes after about 100 Holland America Line passengers got sick in a norovirus outbreak earlier this year.

Cruise ship medical facilities: What happens if you get sick or injured (or bitten by a monkey)

The CDC logged 14 cruise ship outbreaks that met its threshold for public notification in 2023, more than any year between 2017 and 2019. Norovirus was listed as the causative agent in all but one.

The virus is often associated with cruises, but Ben Lopman, a professor of epidemiology at Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health, told USA TODAY last year that cruises constitute a "tiny minority of norovirus outbreaks.” Most happen in health care settings like nursing homes.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Cruise passenger who jumped to death from ship id’d as florida resident who argued with dad before leap.

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The  20-year-old passenger who jumped off a Royal Caribbean cruise  last week after an argument with his dad has been identified as a former high school football player and avid hunter living in Florida.

Levion Parker, of North Port, Florida, has been missing since he jumped overboard April 4 in front of his brother and father on the cruise to Cuba and the Bahamas’ Grand Inagua Island, the Broward County Sheriff’s Office said Wednesday.

The release of his identity comes shortly after the  Coast Guard called off its search  for Parker. 

Social media posts show Parker often went on hunting and fishing trips. He also played football for North Port High School before he graduated in 2022, according to the Daily Mail .

Parker jumped off the 18-story Liberty of the Seas after reportedly getting into an argument with his father.

Parker’s father was “fussing at him for being drunk,”  fellow passenger Bryan Sims told The Post .

“When we got to them, he said to his dad, ‘I’ll fix this right now.’ And he jumped out the window in front of us all,” Sims said.

“He was pretty drunk,” Sims added.

Sims hung out with Parker and his brother, Seth, 18, in the hot tub in the early hours of April before going their separate ways around 4 a.m. 

After Sims had used the restroom and dried off, he headed toward the elevators.

On his way there, he noticed the two brothers and their dad, Francel Parker, coming out of the sliding doors near the elevators. 

“As we were walking from the hot tub back to the elevators, his dad and brother were walking towards us. His dad was fussing at him for being drunk, I guess,” Sims said of the moment before Parker jumped.  

Royal Caribbean said it “immediately” launched search boats to look for him with help from the US Coast Guard.

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Parker’s father owns an air conditioning company and the family was cruising on the boat as guests of Tropic Supply, a Florida-based air conditioning wholesale company.

Tropic Supply had invited dozens of contractors to mark the company’s 50th anniversary, according to Daily Mail.

The Post has reached out to the family for comment. 

Nearly 400 people have gone overboard on major cruise lines between 2000 and 2020,  according to the Washington Post . 

As many cases are often deadly, many cruise lines have installed surveillance cameras and employed additional safety measures to help reduce risk. 

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.

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Middle East crisis — explained

The conflict between Israel and Palestinians — and other groups in the Middle East — goes back decades. These stories provide context for current developments and the history that led up to them.

Israel shoots down missiles and drones after Iran launches unprecedented attack

Becky Sullivan

Israeli Iron Dome air defense systems launch to intercept missiles fired from Iran, in central Israel on Sunday. Tomer Neuberg/AP hide caption

Israeli Iron Dome air defense systems launch to intercept missiles fired from Iran, in central Israel on Sunday.

Booms and air raid sirens sounded across Israel and the occupied West Bank early Sunday morning, after Iran launched dozens of drones and missiles toward Israel, in an attack that marked a major escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

In Washington, President Joe Biden said U.S. forces had helped Israel down "nearly all" the drones and missiles, and pledged to convene allies to develop a unified response.

Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said Iran fired more than 300 projectiles at Israel overnight, 99% of which were shot down, the "vast majority". Officials reported minor damage to a military base in southern Israel and one injury to a 10-year-old child, who was reported to be in critical condition.

"We will do everything we need, everything, to defend the state of Israel," Hagari said. He added that some of the launches came from Iraq and Yemen.

How Iran and Israel became archenemies

The Israeli War Cabinet planned to meet at lunchtime. In a statement Sunday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. does "not seek escalation" of the conflict.

G7 leaders are meeting on Sunday afternoon to coordinate on a diplomatic response to Iran's attack, and engage with officials across the Middle East. The United Nations Security Council is is also set to meet, after Israel requested the council condemn Iran's attack, and designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps a terrorist organization.

Iran had vowed to retaliate after an airstrike on an Iranian consulate in Syria earlier this month killed seven Iranian military officials . It is the first time that Iran has launched an attack on Israel from Iranian soil, Israeli officials said.

U.S. forces in the region were active in shooting down drones, a U.S. defense official said. And interceptions by Israel's anti-missile defense system lit up the skies over populous areas including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

The Israeli emergency medical service Magen David Adom reported that a 10-year-old child had been struck in the head by shrapnel in the area of Arad, a town near the southwestern edge of the Dead Sea. Paramedics also treated about 20 people who suffered from anxiety or minor injuries experienced while seeking shelter, the service said.

Saturday's attack, which was first announced by Israeli officials around 4 p.m. ET, was staged in waves and took hours to reach Israel, officials said.

In a statement broadcast on Iranian state television, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps described the attack as a "large-scale military operation" against multiple targets inside Israel.

In a post on the social media site X, Iran's permanent mission to the United Nations wrote that the attack was a direct response to the strike on the consulate and that "the matter can be deemed concluded."

Iranian commandos seize an Israeli-linked container ship near Strait of Hormuz

Following Tehran's overnight drone and missile attack on Sunday, Iran warned Israel of a larger attack on its territory should it retaliate, adding that Washington has been warned not to back Israeli military action.

"Our response will be much larger than tonight's military action if Israel retaliates against Iran," armed forces chief of staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri told state TV, adding that Tehran warned Washington that any backing of Israeli retaliation would result in U.S. bases being targeted.

The U.S. military was directly involved in the response, a senior U.S. defense official said. "In accordance with our ironclad commitment to Israel's security, U.S. forces in the region continue to shoot down Iranian-launched drones targeting Israel. Our forces remain postured to provide additional defensive support and to protect U.S. forces operating in the region," the official said.

Israelis were urged to take shelter

This video grab from AFPTV taken on Sunday shows explosions lighting up Jerusalem's sky during an Iranian attack on Israel. AFPTV/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

This video grab from AFPTV taken on Sunday shows explosions lighting up Jerusalem's sky during an Iranian attack on Israel.

Officials in Israel had explicitly urged residents of Nevatim, Dimona and Eilat — three cities in Israel's Negev desert region — and people in the northern occupied Golan Heights to take shelter. A major Israeli air base is located near Nevatim, and an Israeli nuclear research facility is located in Dimona.

Airspace over Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon was closed late Saturday, while some airlines announced the cancellation of some flights and the re-routing of others due to the attacks. Israel and Jordan reopened their airspace on Sunday morning.

Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based militant group, said that it had staged its own attack by launching dozens of rockets toward an Israeli military base in the Golan early Sunday.

In a Saturday night address to Israelis, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that his country was ready for "any scenario, both defensively and offensively."

"We have determined a clear principle: Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We will defend ourselves against any threat and will do so level-headedly and with determination," Netanyahu said.

After striking throughout the Middle East, Iran's proxies now become the targets

President Biden monitored the attack from the Situation Room alongside top defense and diplomatic officials. In anticipation of the attack, he had cut short a trip to Delaware in order to return to the White House.

Afterward, he spoke with Netanyahu and said Israel had "demonstrated a remarkable capacity to defend against and defeat even unprecedented attacks – sending a clear message to its foes that they cannot effectively threaten the security of Israel."

"At my direction, to support the defense of Israel, the U.S. military moved aircraft and ballistic missile defense destroyers to the region over the course of the past week" the president said. "Thanks to these deployments and the extraordinary skill of our servicemembers, we helped Israel take down nearly all of the incoming drones and missiles."

Iran blames Israel for an earlier attack on its consulate

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaks on March 1 in Tehran, Iran. Iran vowed to respond after an attack on an Iranian consulate in Syria. Majid Saeedi/Getty Images hide caption

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaks on March 1 in Tehran, Iran. Iran vowed to respond after an attack on an Iranian consulate in Syria.

The attack on Israel comes four days after Iran's leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed retaliation for an April 1 strike on an Iranian consulate in the Syrian capital of Damascus. Iran said the strike killed seven members of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, including two generals, and it blamed Israel for the attack. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied being behind the attack, though the Pentagon said Israel was responsible.

By Saturday, as anticipation had grown over a possible retaliation, Israeli officials warned residents living in communities near Gaza and the Lebanon border to limit the size of gatherings and to work indoors or within reach of a shelter. Schools across Israel were closed through Monday.

Iranian officials accuse Israel of a deadly attack on Iran's consulate in Syria

U.S. defense officials told NPR Saturday that the U.S. military had moved assets around the region in anticipation of an attack, including aircraft, and had shored up defensive positions for forces in the region. The top U.S. military commander in the Middle East, Gen. Michael Kurilla, arrived in Israel Thursday to coordinate with the Israeli military.

In a post on Telegram on Sunday, Hamas expressed support for Iran's attack, calling it a "natural right" and a deserved response to the Israeli strike on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Syria this month. The militant group called on Arab and Islamic nations to continue their backing in its fight against Israel, according to the Washington Post.

Also on Sunday, a statement by Israel's intelligence agency Mossad announced that Hamas had rejected the latest hostage deal outline, which would have led to a six week pause in fighting between Israel and Hamas. They blamed the lapse in negotiations directly on Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.

The attack is a large escalation of hostilities in the region

The strike and retaliation represent an escalation of conflict in the region that many officials worldwide had expressed worry about ever since the outbreak of war between Israel and the Gaza-based militant group Hamas on Oct. 7, the day Hamas led an attack on Israel that left some 1,200 people dead.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres said on Saturday that he condemned Iran's attack and was "deeply alarmed about the very real danger of a devastating region-wide escalation."

Egypt's foreign affairs ministry called Iran's attack a "dangerous escalation" and in a Saturday night statement urged "the exercise of the utmost restraint to spare the region and its people further factors of instability and tension." Jordan's Prime Minister said on Sunday any escalation in the region would lead to "dangerous paths", while United Arab Emirates foreign ministry called for the exercise of the utmost restraint to avoid dangerous repercussions.

Iran has long supplied Hamas with funds and weapons . The White House has not directly linked Iran to the Oct. 7 attack.

In the six months since Oct. 7, Israel has bombarded Gaza and conducted a devastating ground invasion that has left much of the territory in ruins and more than 33,000 Palestinians dead, according to Palestinian health officials.

The last time Iran launched a similar attack was in 2020 , when it fired ballistic missiles at the Ain al-Asad Air Base in Iraq, wounding dozens of U.S. troops, in retaliation for the killing of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani by a U.S. drone strike in Baghdad.

Additional reporting by NPR's Daniel Estrin and NPR's Carrie Kahn in Tel Aviv, NPR's Tom Bowman in Washington, D.C., and NPR's Jane Arraf in Amman. Alon Avital and Itay Stern contributed reporting from Tel Aviv.