Carnival Cruise Line is now threatening disruptive and disorderly passengers with a fine of up to US$500 (R8 900) if they disturb other guests on board during a sailing.
The line now includes in its Cruise Ticket Contract a warning that disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated, The Independent reports.
Passengers are told: “Any guest whose conduct affects the comfort, enjoyment, safety or well-being of other guests or crew will be detained on board and/or disembarked at their own expense and will banned from sailing on Carnival in the future.” The cruise line says any violation of this clause may result in the passenger having to reimburse Carnival for expenses incurred as a result of the detainment or disembarkation.
“Cruise ships, like virtually all parts of travel and tourism – including airlines, amusement parks, sporting events and camping facilities – are experiencing an increase in more agitated behaviour by a small number of guests,” a spokesperson for the major cruise line says.
“Our commitment to the health, safety and security of all of our guests and team members is being demonstrated through the implementation of various measures to ensure that our ships remain a welcoming, family-friendly place, including guest acknowledgment of an expected code of conduct.”
The decision comes not long after Carnival implemented a curfew for minors on board all ships, with immediate effect.