2 passengers sue Carnival Cruise Line alleging they woke up with more than 30 bites from bed bugs

Carnival Cruise Line is facing a lawsuit from two passengers who claim they were bitten by bed bugs during their vacation last February. Catherine Shockley and William Maycock boarded the Horizon cruise ship in February 2025 with high hopes for a dream vacation. However, their experience took a turn for the worse when they woke up on the second day of their trip covered in more than 30 bed bug bites.

The couple initially felt itchy on their legs and arms, which they later realized were insect bites. Upon further inspection, they found live bed bugs, fecal spotting, and eggs in their stateroom. They immediately reported the issue to their stateroom attendant and guest services, but claim that the staff did not take proper action to address the infestation.

Throughout the remainder of their trip, Shockley and Maycock suffered from painful welts, loss of sleep, and mental distress as a result of the bed bug bites. They are now suing Carnival Cruise Line for negligence, alleging that the entire ordeal could have been avoided if the staff had conducted the required inspection and maintenance.

While the Horizon ship received a high score during a recent inspection by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Vessel Sanitation Program, the CDC warns that bed bugs can be found in any environment, including clean places like hotels and resorts. The department emphasizes that cleanliness does not guarantee the absence of bed bugs.

Carnival Cruise Line has not yet commented on the lawsuit. It is essential for cruise companies to prioritize the health and safety of their passengers by taking proactive measures to prevent and address pest infestations. The comfort and well-being of guests should always be a top priority in the hospitality industry.