Cruise passengers typically do not anticipate arrests during their voyages. However, recent incidents have raised concerns about security on cruise ships. U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently intervened on the Carnival Sunship, leading to the arrest of four crew members. These employees were flown out of the United States the next day and are now banned from entering the country for ten years. Carnival has not commented on the incident, which is consistent with the cruise industry's usual response to such matters.
Meanwhile, Norwegian Cruise Line is facing its own challenges. The cruise line has warned U.S. passengers about the necessity of proper identification. Failure to provide the required documents could prevent them from returning home after their trip.
In a separate incident, a passenger aboard the Norwegian Sun was arrested for possessing what authorities described as "illicit substances." The Norwegian Sun, refurbished in 2021, can accommodate 1,936 guests and offers various amenities, including bars, spas, and casinos. During a recent 14-day cruise that included a stop in Fiji, customs officials inspected a specific cabin and subsequently removed the passenger from the ship. Details about the substances found have not been disclosed.
Fiji's Revenue and Customs Service confirmed their involvement in the arrest and is conducting further investigations. Udit Singh, the chief executive officer of the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service, issued a warning to future travelers about the potential consequences of similar offenses. As of now, Norwegian Cruise Line has not released a statement regarding the incident.
Norwegian Cruise Line has a clear list of prohibited items, which includes illegal narcotics. Their regulations specify that marijuana, even if prescribed for medical purposes, along with CBD oils and any products containing THC, are not allowed on board. The cruise line reserves the right to refuse passage to any individual deemed dangerous or disruptive, according to their "Refusal of Passage" policy. This policy allows the ship's captain to remove passengers at any time, without liability for any costs incurred by the passenger.
The safety and well-being of passengers remain a top priority for Norwegian Cruise Line and other major cruise lines. As the busy fall and holiday season approaches, it is likely that Norwegian will enhance security measures to prevent further incidents.