Cruise vacations should be relaxing. For many people, they’re the trip of a lifetime, full of ocean views, great food, and unforgettable memories. But sometimes, that dream vacation takes an unexpected turn. When accidents occur on board, the consequences can be severe, leaving passengers injured, overwhelmed, and uncertain about what to do next.
If you were injured during a cruise, you may have legal options. The team at Mannello Law Group understands how confusing this process can feel, and a cruise ship accident attorney can help you figure out what happened, protect your rights, and work toward the compensation you may be owed.
Slips and Falls on Wet or Uneven Surfaces
Slippery decks are one of the most common causes of cruise ship injuries. Water from pools, spilled drinks, or sea spray can make walkways dangerous. If staff don’t clean it up or post warning signs, passengers can get seriously hurt. Studies show that nearly 79 percent of cruise-related injuries come from falls. Many can be prevented with better maintenance and clear warnings. If you were injured in a fall, the cruise line may be responsible.
Trip Hazards Caused by Poor Maintenance
Not all accidents stem from slippery decks. Some cruise ship injuries happen because of poor maintenance. When cruise lines overlook basic repairs, it can lead to serious passenger injuries that could have been avoided. Common trip hazards include:
- Raised or uneven thresholds between rooms
- Broken or missing floor tiles
- Loose or frayed carpeting
- Unstable or wobbly railings
If you were injured because of one of these issues, a cruise ship injury lawyer can help you determine whether the cruise line failed to meet its duty of care and what legal steps you can take next.
Pool and Water Attraction Accidents
Pools and water slides may be fun, but they’re also common sites for accidents. Wet tiles, faulty drains, slick surfaces, and inadequate supervision all increase the risk. Some passengers suffer from slips, chemical burns, or even near-drownings when safety rules aren’t followed. Cruise staff are expected to monitor these areas and make sure they’re safe for everyone, especially children.
Activity-Related Injuries from Onboard or Off-Ship Adventures
Cruises are known for their wide range of activities both on the ship and at port. But when something goes wrong during these adventures, the consequences can be serious. Common causes of activity-related injuries include:
- Inexperienced or poorly trained staff
- Defective or poorly maintained equipment
- Lack of proper supervision or safety instructions
- Unsafe conditions during off-ship excursions
If your injury occurred during a scheduled event or cruise-sponsored activity, a cruise ship injury attorney can help determine whether the cruise line or a third-party vendor may be held responsible.
Elevator and Escalator Accidents
Elevators and escalators are essential for moving around a massive ship. But if they malfunction, doors may close too fast, sudden stops may occur, or safety sensors may fail. Passengers can be knocked over, pinched, or injured in falls. These issues are often tied to poor maintenance or defective parts.
Food Poisoning or Illness Outbreaks
Cruise buffets and fine dining are part of the experience, but they’re not always risk-free. Illness outbreaks, including cases of food poisoning, can spread quickly in these enclosed environments. Common causes of cruise ship illness include:
- Improper food storage or handling
- Contaminated water or ingredients
- Poor hygiene practices by kitchen or service staff
- Inadequate sanitation in shared spaces
If you became seriously ill on your cruise, especially alongside other passengers, a cruise ship injury lawyer can investigate the source and hold the cruise line accountable.
Inadequate Security or Assaults Onboard
Some cruise injuries happen because of violence, not accidents. Assaults, theft, and fights can occur when cruise lines fail to provide basic security, such as trained staff or working cameras. According to federal data, 131 sex crimes were reported on cruise ships in 2023, up from 87 the year before. In early 2025 alone, 48 crimes were reported, including 23 rapes and 10 sexual assaults. If poor security contributed to your harm, a cruise ship injury attorney can hold the cruise line accountable.
Medical Negligence in the Ship’s Infirmary
Cruise passengers rely on the ship’s medical team when injuries or illnesses happen at sea. But when care falls short, the consequences can be serious. Medical negligence aboard a cruise ship can take many forms, including:
- Delays in care that cause a condition to worsen
- Misdiagnosis of serious injuries or illnesses
- Improper treatment or medication errors
- Lack of proper equipment to manage emergencies
If the ship’s medical staff failed to meet basic standards of care, a cruise ship injury lawyer can help you explore your legal options.
Injuries from Falling Objects or Loose Equipment
When seas are rough or ships aren’t properly secured, things can go flying. Passengers have been struck by falling ceiling tiles, unlatched doors, luggage, or even chairs during sudden movements. These accidents can result in concussions, back injuries, or worse. Proper storage and inspections are essential, and it’s the cruise line’s responsibility to ensure passenger areas are safe.
Fires, Equipment Failures, and Emergency Evacuations
Fires, power failures, or mechanical breakdowns don’t happen often, but when they do, they can be chaotic and dangerous. In an emergency, cruise lines must have proper evacuation plans and trained staff to help passengers exit safely. If you were injured during a panic or due to poor communication, you may be able to hold the cruise line accountable.
Do You Have Legal Options After a Cruise Injury?
Yes, especially if your injury was caused by unsafe conditions or crew negligence. However, cruise injury claims are governed by maritime law, rather than typical personal injury rules. Most cruise tickets include strict terms about where and when you can file a lawsuit. Many require you to sue in Florida within just one year. Courts have upheld these terms, including in Carnival Cruise Lines, Inc. v. Shute, 499 U.S. 585 (1991).
Still, cruise lines can’t waive responsibility for their own negligence. Federal law under 46 U.S. Code § 30509 says they cannot limit liability for passenger injuries caused by their own fault. A cruise ship accident lawyer can review your case and help you take the proper legal steps.
Compensation You May Be Eligible For
If you were hurt on a cruise and the cruise line is at fault, you may be able to recover compensation for what you’ve gone through. This can include:
- Medical bills from treatment during and after the cruise
- Lost wages if your injury kept you from working
- Pain and suffering, both physical and emotional
- Ongoing health issues or permanent injuries
- Emotional distress related to the trauma of the accident
Every situation is different. The best way to know what your case might be worth is to talk with a cruise ship accident lawyer who understands these types of claims.
Talk to a Cruise Ship Accident Lawyer Who Can Help
Getting injured during your cruise wasn’t something you planned for. But if you’re now facing medical bills, time away from work, or lasting pain, you shouldn’t have to carry the burden alone. You deserve support, answers, and someone who knows how to fight back when the cruise line pushes back.
At Mannello Law Group, we help injured passengers understand their rights and take action under complex cruise ship injury laws. Our experienced cruise ship accident attorneys know how to navigate the fine print, meet critical deadlines, and hold cruise companies accountable. Call (954) 606-6606 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation. We’re here to help you move forward.
