Injured During a Cruise Ship Excursion? Our Fort Lauderdale Cruise Ship Attorney Explains Your Rights

Cruises are a popular getaway for South Florida residents and tourists alike. However, while spending days visiting far-off ports may sound like a dream come true, you need to be aware of accident risks.

Unfortunately, Injuries during cruise ship excursions are common and can quickly turn your vacation into a nightmare. Our Fort Lauderdale cruise ship injury attorney explains how they happen and your rights in holding negligent cruise lines and tour operators accountable.

Common Causes of Cruise Ship Excursion Injuries

South Florida is a popular destination for many reasons, not the least of which are its cruise ship terminals. According to an NBC News report, over 10 million passengers embarked on trips to the Bahamas, Caribbean, and other tropical locations in 2024 alone. Cruise excursions are heavily promoted as part of the trip and often include activities ranging from snorkeling to ziplining to guided walking tours.

While these can be a lot of fun, they can also pose significant risks. Injuries often happen on cruise excursions as a result of:

• Poorly maintained equipment or unsafe facilities;
• Unqualified or inattentive tour guides;
• Lack of proper safety instructions;
• Dangerous transportation (e.g., faulty buses or boats);
• Hazardous terrain or slippery surfaces;
• Negligent security or lack of emergency response.

Even if your injury occurred off the ship, the cruise line may still bear responsibility, especially if they booked or endorsed the tour as part of your package.

Can I Hold South Florida Cruise Lines or Tour Operators Liable?

Under the Florida Statutes, cruise ship companies must protect their passengers. While cruise lines often try to shield themselves from liability by claiming excursions are run by “third parties” or having participants sign exhaustive waivers, the fact is they can still be held liable when accidents happen.

If you suffer injuries on a cruise excursion or tour, you may be entitled to file a claim seeking compensation in the following situations:

• The excursion or tour was run or marketed and booked through the cruise company;
• The cruise failed to vet or supervise the tour operator;
• You received inadequate warning of potential risks;
• The cruise ship staff contributed to your injuries or failed to respond appropriately when they happened.

Cruise ship companies have teams of attorneys and insurers on their side, fighting to protect them against these types of claims. To get the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, get professional legal help from our experienced Fort Lauderdale cruise ship attorneys.

Hurt On A Cruise Trip, Tour, or Excursion? Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Cruise Ship Injury Attorney Today

Whether you were hurt while engaging in onboard activities or while attending a cruise tour or excursion, injuries you suffer can leave you facing serious medical bills, lost income, and other costs for long after.

Boone & Davis protects your rights when dealing with cruise companies. With over 40 years of experience, we fight for the maximum compensation. Contact us today and request a consultation with our Fort Lauderdale cruise ship injury attorney.

Sources:

nbcmiami.com/news/local/cruise-comeback-how-south-floridas-cruising-industry-bounced-back/3263482/

leg.state.fl.us/statutes