11 hours ago
Cruise expert issues major warning for unruly passengers
A cruise expert has issued a warning to Britons as more than 2.4 million passengers are to set sail this year.
Many cruise guests opt to pay for an unlimited alcohol package with their holiday. But there's a key mistake that could cause holidaymakers to have their travel insurance voided.
Mark Barton, cruise expert at travel insurance provider Avanti, says: 'Cruise holidays are meant to be relaxing, but some guests can treat the unlimited drinks package like a personal challenge - and that's when trouble starts.
'What many don't realise is that any medical emergency that's alcohol-related such as injuries, falls, or even alcohol poisoning, could void your travel insurance, leaving you to foot a medical bill.
'That could leave you facing thousands of pounds in medical costs abroad and even being removed from the ship at the next port.'
Travel insurance often won't cover injuries which could have been caused by alcohol.
Passengers could also see themselves removed from the ship or even put in the ship's brig, an onboard jail, if they break the rules due to drunken behaviour.
Mark adds: 'All ships have dedicated security personnel onboard who operate 24/7. These security officers are trained in crowd control, conflict resolution, and emergency response, so they'll be on hand to step in should any passengers become rowdy due to excessive drinking.
'If a passenger does become disorderly, or poses a risk to others, security officers might escort them back to their cabin, or even temporarily confine them in a holding area, if necessary, until they sober up.'
So, while it might be tempting to indulge in an all-inclusive package, it's important not to drink too much.
And if it's another passenger's drinking is causing concern, Mark has urged guests to 'report' the behaviour.
He says: 'If you're faced with a drunken passenger and can't see any staff around, look for an emergency phone, which is located around the ship, to report the location and behaviour.
'Never try to physically intervene or argue, as your travel insurance may not cover any injury sustained during a physical altercation. It's always best to let the ship's trained staff handle it.'
Drinking can also cause passengers to become dehydrated which could be dangerous onboard the ship.
