Cruise lines have long operated with extensive autonomy regarding passenger conduct, and some cruisers have learned this the hard way. Individuals can be placed on a “Do Not Sail” list without prior notification, learning of their status only when attempting to book future trips. Several passengers recently discovered themselves on this list, much to their shock.
Linda S. recounted her experience when Carnival Cruise Line banned her 9-year-old son after he caused chaos aboard by damaging property and getting into a fight. “The boy’s behavior interfered with the safety and/or enjoyment of other guests on the ship or caused harm to Carnival,” the cruise line stated. Linda attempted to resolve the matter by offering compensation for the damages and noting her son’s unmedicated ADHD, but Carnival was unyielding.
Joyce, a former Norwegian Cruise Line fan, faced a similar unexpected ban. After forming close connections with the crew and gathering personal contacts, she was bewildered to find her reservation efforts thwarted. An NCL official said, “Our crew members are friendly, outgoing, and helpful… please do not misinterpret their friendliness.” Despite Joyce’s gratitude for the crew’s service, Norwegian Cruise Line declined to reinstate her privileges.
Additionally, aggressive behavior led to another instance of lifetime expulsion. Mary described how her son, involved in an onboard altercation, faced immediate repercussions. Carnival maintains a zero-tolerance policy for disruptions, stating that despite apologies and character references, the young man’s ban would remain.
Finally, a chargeback dispute left Christie C. blacklisted. After a disagreement with Norwegian Cruise Line over cruise credits, she pursued a credit card chargeback, which NCL flagged as problematic. Only after withdrawing her chargeback requests did the cruise line reconsider its stance.
Navigating cruise line policies can be complex and punitive in unexpected ways. In each case, passengers learned harsh lessons about the importance of adhering to terms and behavior expectations. Understanding contractual obligations and shipboard conduct regulations remains crucial for a trouble-free cruise experience.
