Cruise ship crime reaches 2-year high, casting ‘dark cloud’ for travelers: expert

Crime rates on cruise ships departing from the US have seen a concerning increase, with experts warning that this trend casts a shadow over the travel industry. Data from the Department of Transportation revealed that there were 48 reported crimes onboard cruise ships between January 1, 2025, and March 30, 2025. Among these incidents, 23 were reported as rapes, 10 as sexual assaults, and seven as assaults, all occurring on various cruise ships.

Robert McDonald, a former Secret Service special agent and criminal justice lecturer, highlighted the negative impact of crime on the cruise industry. He emphasized that cruise lines sometimes hesitate to report such incidents upfront, fearing the negative publicity it may bring. McDonald, who has extensive experience in security coordination for dignitaries worldwide, noted that the concentration of people in a confined space on cruise ships makes them more susceptible to criminal activities.

The recent arrest of two illegal immigrants for allegedly molesting a minor aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship further underscored the gravity of the situation. Jose Prudencio Diaz and Ricardo Daniel Mondragon Leal were charged with child molestation and exhibition after an incident on the Independence of the Seas ship. The victim, a 14-year-old boy, reported that Diaz and Leal engaged in inappropriate behavior in front of him, ultimately forcing him to touch them and perform sexual acts.

In another disturbing incident, a brawl involving dozens of passengers erupted at the Port of Galveston cruise terminal, leading to physical altercations among individuals. Carnival Cruise Line took swift action by placing 24 passengers on a “do not sail list,” effectively barring them from boarding any of the company’s ships. The cruise line condemned the violence and handed the matter over to law enforcement for further investigation.

The surge in onboard crimes has raised concerns about passenger safety and the reputation of the cruise industry. Experts like McDonald stress the need for enhanced security measures and stricter protocols to prevent such incidents from occurring. Cruise lines, including Carnival and Royal Caribbean, must prioritize passenger safety and address these issues promptly to restore confidence among travelers. Ultimately, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for passengers should be the top priority for cruise operators in the wake of rising crime rates.