It never ceases to amaze me what ridiculous stunts people pull around cruise ships. Some, like jet skiing too close or treating the lower deck like a diving board, are flat-out dangerous. But others? They might initially seem harmless—until they cost fines or risk your safety. Then, what about the obnoxious passenger who finds their way on every ship? You know—the one who thinks cutting in line while embarking or disembarking is OK.
Cruise vacations are supposed to be a relaxing escape for everyone on board. But some passengers take ‘relaxing’ to a whole new level. Maybe they turn vacation mode up a notch or overdo it on the booze. Whatever the case, suddenly, they’re trying balancing acts on the railings, treating the gangway like a racetrack, or ignoring the crew’s instruction. They seem intent on ruining the onboard vibe for everyone.
Of course, a cruise is meant to be fun and a time to “let your hair down.” But let’s face it, there’s a fine line between laid-back and carelessness.
The good news? Avoiding these blunders isn’t hard if you know what to look out for. Here’s how to dodge those pitfalls and keep your cruise stress-free and smooth sailing for yourself—and everyone else.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid Near Cruise Ships
Risky moves near a cruise ship usually include getting too close to it in the water, either by swimming or water sports. However, docking areas and cruise ships can be dangerous places. Other mistakes near cruise ships include messing with mooring lines, smoking while refueling, tossing garbage overboard, or risky behavior near the dock’s edge. One slip could spell disaster for your cruise vacation.
Don’t jet ski near the ship – it’s a one-way ticket to danger
Riding a jet ski near a cruise ship might sound thrilling, but it’s a dangerous gamble. Cruise ships create strong currents and have restricted visibility close to the vessel. Remember, it’s nearly impossible for crew members to spot smaller watercraft. A quick joyride could lead to a serious collision or entrapment in the ship’s wake.
In one close call, two women on jet skis drifted directly into the path of a Carnival cruise ship at Port Canaveral. The two women were saved only thanks to a deputy and harbor pilot intervening just in time. One of the jet skiers said, “If it weren’t for the quick action of the harbor pilot, we wouldn’t be here.”
Stories like this highlight the high risks for jet skiers who get too close to these massive vessels. Instead, stick to designated jet ski zones well away from the ship. Enjoy the thrill at a safer distance, where you can still capture those perfect vacation photos without putting yourself at risk.
Don’t even think about swimming close to the ship
Swimming near a cruise ship might seem like a thrill, but let’s get real: you vs. a 100,000-ton cruise ship. No spoilers on who’s going to lose. Cruise ships have enormous propellers, rudder, and powerful thrusters. These create strong underwater currents, turbulence, and swells. You can easily get pulled toward the ship and go under.
Remember, if you cannot see the captain and the bridge from your location, they cannot see you. You are quite literally a drop in the ocean. So, the crew may not notice a swimmer until it’s too late.
One woman was almost kicked off the cruise ship in Costa Maya after deciding to snorkel in the ocean a hundred feet from the pier. The port authority official wasn’t interested in her excuse: “But there’s no sign posted that I cannot swim.” She managed to sneak away without further action being taken.
A cruise expert on a forum commented, “Anyone swimming near the props will get sucked under if they start turning. If you want to swim in the ocean, go to designated areas, never near the cruise ship or harbor area.”
Don’t jump off the ship – it’s not a swimming pool!
Thinking about a high dive from your cabin balcony? Think again. Cruise ships aren’t a springboard for your personal Olympics. And you’ll not be breaking any records—just a few bones, if you’re lucky. Apart from the risky height, the ship’s powerful thrusters and unpredictable waves make that splashdown a fast ticket to danger.
The Washington Post reported on one young teen who jumped on a dare, but his body never recovered. Another man was reported overboard on a Carnival Cruise and was never found despite a 1,300-square-mile search.
Here’s a sobering fact: Twenty-three percent of deaths on cruise ships are due to going overboard—falling, jumping, or being thrown.
Stick to poolside cannonballs or hit a local beach if you crave a jump. Because, trust me, midnight dive may sound bold, but it’s not worth becoming tomorrow’s headline.
Don’t lean or climb over railings – one slip can be deadly
Want that perfect ocean view? It might be tempting to peer over the edge—or worse, climb over a cruise ship railing—but it’s dangerous. One slip or a gust of wind could easily throw you off balance, turning a simple glance into a deadly plunge. Those barriers are not a challenge—they’re there for a reason.
Unfortunately, accidents happen. One incident involved a 7-year-old who tragically fell overboard after leaning too far, followed by his mother’s attempt to save him. With cruise ships averaging speeds up to 22 knots and taking a mile to turn around, rescue is rarely quick, making every second in the water critical.
Play it safe and keep both feet on deck. Want a better view? Head to a designated viewing area or grab a balcony cabin—no risky stunts needed.
Don’t attempt stunts near railings – railings aren’t a stage!
Don’t even think about handstands, “planking,” or any wild stunt by the ship’s railing. Cruise ship railings are designed for one thing: safety. Treating them like a playground is asking for trouble. The ship’s movement, plus a bit of wind, can turn even a simple pose into a life-threatening slip.
Apart from falling several floors into the freezing ocean, you could risk getting banned. One cruise passenger and roommate on a Carnival cruise thought it was a bright idea to climb over the balcony railing for the “perfect selfie.” But after the picture went viral, the cruise line found them and banned them for good.
If you’re craving an epic photo, try a safe spot away from the edge. Trust me, no selfie is worth the risk of tumbling overboard or getting kicked off the ship.
Don’t light up while the ship’s refueling – this could end in flames!
Did you know smoking is banned outdoors while the ship is refueling? Not many cruisers know this fact. For example, Carnival Cruise Line’s policy simply states: “Smoking is not allowed outdoors while the ship is refueling.” A stray spark or cigarette butt could lead to severe fires or explosions.
If you need to light up while refueling, head to one designated indoor smoking area. Otherwise, plan your smokes around the ship’s schedule.
Don’t smoke in restricted areas – it’s a fire waiting to happen
Trying to sneak a fly smoke outside of designated areas is a surefire way of getting a huge fine or being booted off the ship. This means no lighting up on your balcony, hidden corner of a deserted deck, or trying ingenious ways to puff in your cruise cabin or bathroom. And it is not just cigs—vapes, cigars, and pipes are also banned in most cruise ship areas.
Strict smoking policies are enforced to reduce the risk of fires. In 2006, a cigarette on a balcony was the cause of a massive fire on a Princess Cruise ship in the Caribbean. It resulted in one death, 11 injuries, and 100 rooms scorched.
Don’t mess with mooring lines – they’re NOT for playing
Mooring lines are the massive ropes keeping cruise ships securely docked. Although they are tightly stretched, it’s foolish behavior to pull them, climb on them, or in any other way mess with them. Of course, you’re hardly likely to snap it. But you could fall into the water or trip and injure yourself.
I read a Gard report (maritime insurer) stating that broken mooring lines caused 858 injuries and 31 deaths in a five-year period. Investigations reveal that high winds and tension from massive cruise ships are the main culprits for weakened mooring lines.
Don’t fly drones near the ship without permission – it’s a no-fly zone!
Bringing a drone on your cruise? Cool! Flying it near the ship? Not so much. Drones are banned near cruise ships for safety reasons. They can interfere with ship operations, disrupt communication systems, and even pose hazards if they crash. Plus, it’s a privacy invasion that could upset other fellow cruisers.
Cruise lines take this rule seriously. Royal Caribbean says about drones onboard: “Guests can bring drones on their cruise for use on land only and outside the port area. Drones used on the ship will be confiscated. Repeat offenders may be subject to disembarkation.”
If you want those aerial shots, check for drone-approved zones onshore where it’s legal and safe. You’ll avoid fines and still get fantastic footage without putting anyone at risk.
Top cruise tip: Check with your cruise line about bringing a drone onboard because some have them on their list of banned luggage items.
Don’t ignore port authority instructions – fines are just the start
Skipping port authority instructions might seem harmless, but it’s a quick way to land in hot water—and I’m not talking about the hot tub. Port authorities give instructions for a reason—yours and the safety of your fellow passengers. They must keep everyone safe, manage ship logistics, and ensure ships leave on time.
Ignoring harbor staff instructions can cause delays, fines, or even worse, if you interfere with port operations. Remember, if you don’t make the ship on time, it will leave without you, even though it’s still docked. Refuse to comply with rules? Don’t expect to re-board until they sort things out.
If you want a hassle-free experience, follow the port rules, follow instructions, and return to the ship in plenty of time. You’ll breeze through the embarkation process.
Don’t disregard crew instructions – missing the boat is no fun!
Crew members aren’t just there to make your margarita or point you to the buffet—they’re trained to keep everyone safe and things running smoothly. So, don’t ignore their instructions, or you’ll be the one missing out on the fun.
Here is a list of cruise ship rules you should never break:
- Attend the safety drill
- Follow safety guidelines on the pool deck
- Sneaking alcohol on board
- Going through security when embarking
- Not returning to the ship when you’re told
Play it smart: listen up, follow crew directions, and enjoy a smooth, stress-free cruise without last-minute scrambles.
Don’t toss trash overboard – the ocean doesn’t want your litter
Throwing anything overboard—garbage, cigarette butts, or leftover food—is a huge no-no. Every piece of trash, whether a wrapper, a bottle, or a plastic container, impacts marine life. It pollutes the oceans, is strictly against cruise ship policy, and can lead to hefty fines and even cruise line bans.
One former cruise line passenger director stated, “If you intentionally throw something overboard, like a cup, you’ll get a notice. For severe violations, like throwing a chair, you may be removed at the next port and must appear before the captain, who will decide your fate.”
Want to do your part? Use the onboard trash bins and keep the ocean clean and thriving for all to enjoy.
Don’t forget to return to the cruise ship on time – you’ll be left behind
Don’t be that passenger who becomes Usain Bolt running the pier trying to reach the gangway in time. Cruise ship staff say it’s their biggest gripe. Cruise ships run on tight schedules. A former Seabourn Cruise Line crew member told me, “Cruise lines cannot wait for stray passengers. It messes with the itinerary, and cruise lines must pay more in port fees.”
One cruiser shared, “We completely lost track of the time for sightseeing. When we realized the time, we had a frantic taxi ride back to the port and a mad dash to board on time. It was highly embarrassing, especially as some cruisers were cheering us on.”
To avoid turning your vacation into a frantic travel scramble, set a reminder and aim to be back at least 30 minutes early. And don’t mistake “all-aboard” time for departure time.
Don’t cut in line or push – cruise etiquette 101
Want to know the fastest way to really tick off your fellow passengers? Cut in line or push forward. Whether waiting in line at embarkation, the buffet, or lining up for excursions, no one likes a line-cutter. Pushing ahead breaks the laid-back vibe and makes for some tense moments.
One passenger on an MSC cruise ship recalled watching a couple think their cruise loyalty status allowed them to disregard the entire line. One couple pointed this out to the buffet staff, who reprimanded the couple and asked them to wait their turn like everyone else. Cutting in line is usually voted as the top type of bad behavior on a cruise.
For a smoother experience, respect the line and remember that everyone else is metaphorically and literally in the same boat. You’ll avoid awkward standoffs and keep that easygoing cruise atmosphere alive for everyone.
Don’t fall for local scams – keep your wallet (and vacation) safe
Ports are packed with excitement—and unfortunately—scams targeting passengers arriving on cruise ships. From fake taxi drivers to inflated fares, unscrupulous beach vendors, and “must-have” souvenirs, scammers know how to spot tourists. Therefore, be extra vigilant ashore, keep valuables out of sight, and stick to known tourist areas.
Falling for these traps can leave you with an empty wallet and a sour taste on what should be a fantastic day. If your documents get stolen, you could spend a lengthy time at the police station sorting them out.
Here’s what one fellow cruiser shared, “A friendly “local guide” at port offered us an exclusive tour, only to hike up the price mid-way and demand extra cash to finish. We had to pay the money to avoid being stranded. The experience ruined the entire cruise.”
Stick to reputable vendors, book excursions through trusted sources, and keep your cash close. With a bit of caution, you’ll steer clear of scams and enjoy your port days worry-free.
My Thoughts
Cruising is all about relaxing, exploring, and having fun, but a few smart choices can make a world of difference. Avoid these pitfalls, respect the ship’s rules, and you’ll be set for smooth sailing. Have you ever seen—or maybe even made—one of these mistakes? Share your stories in the comments below—our community would love to hear them.
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