What Happens If I Am Robbed On a Cruise Ship

If you believe crimes only happen on land, think again. While cruise ships are known for their stunning vistas and upscale amenities, the cruise industry experiences some crime like anywhere else. Every year, there are multiple instances of violence aboard cruise ships, from robbery and theft to sexual assault and manslaughter. It’s always a good practice to consider these personal safety tips before taking a cruise or any other vacation.

Where To Turn for Assistance

Although the FBI has jurisdiction over crimes committed at sea, they rarely get involved in such cases unless there is a risk of death, physical injury, or cases involving more than $10,000. If you’ve been the victim of a robbery at sea, contact our Miami maritime lawyers at lipcon.com. The 14 full-time maritime lawyers at Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A. are committed to helping those injured, robbed, or sexually assaulted on a cruise ship to seek justice and secure maximum compensation for their losses.

Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the country’s “Best Law Firms” since 2016, Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A.’s maritime lawyers are making considerable waves in the legal landscape.

What to Do When You Have Been the Victim of a Robbery?

The second most common crime on cruise ships is theft of more than $10,000, making up 22 charges reported in 2018.

If you have been the victim of a robbery on a cruise ship, the first thing you have to do is ensure you are safe and unharmed. This includes receiving proper medical attention. Then contact the ship’s security office and let them know about your situation. Ask a cruise ship staff member if you need help knowing where to go. They will point you in the right direction.

Try to take any photo or video evidence of the robbery scene, as they may come in handy later. Reminding the cruise line of your rights is vital, such as requesting documentation from the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA).

In addition, property stolen worth market value can result in a lawsuit if you discover who the culprit is. At Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A., our maritime attorney can help after the robbery if the matter does not resolve immediately. If the robbery occurs in port while you are off the ship, you must contact local enforcement officials, the nearest U.S. embassy, and the cruise line.

How to Avoid Being Robbed

Due to the lack of law enforcement officers and lax crime reporting, criminals probably see cruise ships as chum in the water. Consider the following tips to avoid becoming a victim of robbery onboard a cruise ship:

• Put your wallet in your front pocket
• Only carry what you need
• Do not sleep outside your room
• Do not travel with expensive jewelry
• Do not trust cruise employees with your valuables, and try to avoid using the room’s safe
• Do not leave items on the deck while you swim
• Make sure your luggage arrives where it should

If you plan on relaxing on a cruise ship, be aware of the risks involved. And if you are robbed, seeking help from our legal team is vital so that you can recover compensation.

Contact a Maritime Law Professional

Our law firm is proud that US News & World Report has named three of our attorneys among the “Best Lawyers” ® in America. Due to our 165 years of combined experience and extensive working knowledge of the Jones Act and FELA legal instruments, we are equipped to assist cruise ship robbery victims. Contact us or call 877-233-1238 to speak to a compassionate and skilled attorney for a free consultation.