Spring break is upon us and going on a cruise is one of the most popular ways spring breakers choose to spend their vacations. One of the fun parts of going on a cruise involves the day-long excursions that cruise lines offer on various ports throughout the voyage. The excursions can be a lot of fun, so long as the cruise passengers are safe. Here are some tips to help ensure your safety while on these exciting excursions.
Do Not Wander
It can be tempting to want to “explore” once the cruise goer is on port. However, it is safe to stay on the beaten path. Stay in the areas recommended by the cruise line. There is a reason that they put together recommendations for passengers, and it is best to frequent those spots rather than wander off to find an undiscovered “treasure.” The possibility of getting lost and not being able to make it back to port on time is too strong, and the chances of being robbed or worse is too great a risk, if the traveler encounters an unsafe situation. Use common sense and stay in populated areas.
Book Excursions through the Cruise Company or Reputable Traveler Agent
It is best to only book excursions through the cruise line and not through someone who is not licensed or regulated by the visiting port. If any questions arise as to whether the person through whom the passenger is booking the excursion is licensed, always ask. If the person is licensed, he or she will be able to provide the proper documentation.
Carry Only What Is Necessary
When passengers get off the ship for the day, it is important that they only take what is needed. If the person does not plan on using the cell phone on port, leave it in the safe on the ship. Cell phones are easily the most commonly stolen item from travelers. Leave the original passport in the safe, as well, and carry a photocopy of the passport while exploring the island. Keep valuables to a limit. When in doubt, leave it on the ship.
Safety While Ziplining
Ziplining is a popular attraction for cruise excursions, allowing the participants to fly through tropical jungles and mountains. However, flying fast through Mother Nature can come with its own inherent risks, especially if the ropes on the zip lining course are frayed or not appropriately attached. Participants also are required to get a safety briefing before beginning the ride. These rides should also have guides and brakes to ensure safety, as well. It is important to ensure that the zip course is regularly inspected. Cruise goers can do their own research online to verify this.
Parasailing
Another fun activity enjoyed by cruise passengers is parasailing, which involves a person being pulled by a boat and flying above the water with a parachute. However, the ropes attached to the boat and the individual need to be properly attached and not frayed. Further, the driver needs to ensure that the passenger does not go above a certain height that is considered unsafe where the passenger is unable to communicate to the boat in the event of an emergency. Like zip lining, it helps to do your homework before booking the parasailing activity. Make sure that the company is trusted and safe before booking.
Do Not Act Like a Tourist
This tip can seem counterintuitive since cruise passengers are, in fact, tourists, but it is recommended that passengers avoid wearing items that would make them stick out as a target. These items can be large camera bags, Hawaiian shirts, or fanny packs. Try to blend in with the crowd and local culture as much as possible.
INJURED ON A CRUISE SHIP OR CRUISE EXCURSION? SPEAK TO A CRUISE SHIP ACCIDENT LAWYER TODAY: 1-866-597-4529
If you have been injured on your cruise, on a wet and slippery deck, down a poorly lit staircase or steep gangway, in port on an excursion, or on a tender boat- it is important that you speak as soon as possible with a lawyer who specializes in personal injury claims against cruise lines. Most cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Norwegian, MSC, Disney, Holland America, Princess, Costa, Regents Seven Seas and Oceania require that claims against them be pursued in a very specific place under very strict deadlines. Failure to comply with each individual cruise lines deadlines can result in a complete loss of any and all legal rights.
Aronfeld Trial Lawyers is a personal injury firm located in Miami, Florida since 1991. We have fought hard to hold cruise lines accountable when they put their profits ahead of passenger safety. We are available 24/7 and encourage you to contact us even if you are still on your cruise. The sooner we can begin our investigation and preservation of key evidence, such as the CCTV footage of your trip and fall, slip and fall, assault or other type of injury the more likely we will be able to understand and prove how the incident occurred. Remember, the cruise lines have the most aggressive and well funded defense lawyers in the world- protecting their profits. You need an experienced legal advocate in your corner who will fight to obtain the compensation you deserve for lost wages, medical expenses, transportation reimbursement and pain and suffering. Call us today and speak with a cruise ship claims lawyer about your potential claim- toll free 1-866-597-4529, 305-441-0440, or by email. We are ready to help.
