5 Most Dangerous Cruise Lines

As vacationers eagerly board cruise ships for a taste of luxury and adventure, few consider the potential risks lurking on these floating resorts. Recent data paints a concerning picture of rising crime rates on some of the world's most popular cruise lines. Here's a breakdown of the cruise lines with the highest reported crimes.

1. Carnival Cruise Line^®

Carnival Cruises consistently reports the highest number of crimes among major cruise lines. In 2019 alone, Carnival Cruises accounted for 28 reported incidents, including 20 sexual assaults. These figures highlight a troubling trend, with Carnival's per capita sexual assault rate surpassing that of many U.S. states. In 2023, the Department of Transportation (DOT) reported that Carnival had a per capita rate of over 42 sexual assaults per 100,000 passengers, which is higher than in 27 states.

2. Royal Caribbean^®

Royal Caribbean follows closely behind Carnival, with 11 serious criminal incidents reported in a single quarter of 2019, including eight sexual assaults. This alarming statistic raises questions about the effectiveness of safety measures onboard.

3. Princess Cruises^®

Princess Cruises, another major player in the cruise industry, has also been implicated in serious crimes. Reports indicate that Princess Cruises had more sexual assault incidents attributed to its staff than other cruise lines. The company's association with several high-profile cases underscores the need for stricter regulations and better enforcement of safety protocols.

4. Norwegian Cruise Line^®

While not leading in overall crime rates, Norwegian Cruise Line has had its share of violent incidents. Reports of physical assaults and other serious crimes have surfaced, though they occur less frequently than on Carnival or Royal Caribbean ships. Nevertheless, the presence of such crimes on any cruise line is a cause for concern and calls for continuous improvement in passenger safety.

5. Disney Cruise Line^®

Disney Cruise Line, often marketed as a family-friendly option, is not immune to crime either. While incidents are fewer compared to other cruise lines, the company has still been part of the reported sexual assaults in the FBI's quarterly reports. This highlights that even the most seemingly safe environments require vigilance and robust security measures.

Crime on cruise ships is a serious issue that affects all major cruise lines, from Carnival to Disney. As vacationers, it's crucial to be aware of these risks and choose travel options wisely.

References: Is Cruise Ship Crime Continuing To Climb? | Report Reveals Sexual Assault Is the Most Consistently Reported Crime On Board Major Cruise Lines | Final DOT Cruise Crime Data For 2023: Carnival Cruise Line's Per Capita Sexual Assault / Rape Rate Is Higher Than 27 States