Sexual assault aboard a cruise ship is not only a devastating personal trauma but a crime that occurs far more often than cruise lines would like passengers to know. These incidents can happen in cabins, at pool decks, in elevators, or even during shore excursions arranged by the cruise line itself. Survivors are often left confused and overwhelmed, unsure of who to report the assault to, whether they have legal options, or whether maritime law even applies to their situation. Understanding the answers to those questions is one of the most important steps a victim can take in the aftermath.

Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A. has represented cruise ship sexual assault survivors for more than 50 years. Our cruise ship rape lawyers have handled thousands of cases involving passengers and crew members who were victimized at sea, and we have recovered well over $500 million in damages across all of our cases. Our team of 19 attorneys is deeply committed to fighting for survivors, both in and out of the courtroom, with the compassion and determination this type of case demands.

How Common Is Sexual Assault on Cruise Ships?

Sexual assault is the most frequently reported crime aboard cruise ships, and the data reveals a troubling, persistent pattern. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Cruise Line Incident Reports, which compile figures reported to the FBI under the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA):

• In Q1 of 2025 (January–March), there were 33 sexual crimes reported on cruise ships embarking or disembarking in the U.S.
• In Q2 of 2025 (April–June), there were 33 sexual crimes reported.
• In Q3 of 2025 (July–September), the number of reported incidents rose to 36.
• In Q4 of 2025 (October–December), there were 29 sexual crimes reported, bringing the full-year total to 131 sexual crimes: the second-highest annual total on record.

Together, these figures place 2025 on pace to reflect the same troubling patterns documented in prior years, where sexual assault has consistently accounted for the majority of all serious crimes reported aboard cruise ships. These numbers only capture incidents formally reported to the FBI. In our experience and opinion, the true number is significantly higher, as many survivors feel too afraid, ashamed, or intimidated to come forward while still at sea. 

Know Your Legal Rights as a Cruise Ship Sexual Assault Survivor

When a passenger or crew member is victimized at sea, maritime law provides meaningful protections and legal remedies. Cruise lines owe a legal duty of care to everyone aboard, which means they are required to conduct proper background checks on crew members, maintain adequate security, and respond promptly to any reported assault. When they fail in these responsibilities, they can be held legally liable.

Passenger Rights Under Maritime Law

If you were sexually assaulted as a cruise passenger, you have the right to pursue compensation that may include medical treatment costs, counseling, emotional trauma, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Under the CVSSA, cruise lines are required to report qualifying incidents to the FBI and U.S. Coast Guard. You also have the right to request medical care and access to a 24-hour sexual assault hotline while still onboard. 

Crew Member Rights Under Maritime Law

Crew members who are sexually assaulted have additional protections under federal maritime statutes. They may pursue claims through the Jones Act and related laws designed to protect seafarers. These legal tools allow crew members to seek compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and punitive damages when the cruise line acted recklessly. 

Crew members are also entitled to maintenance and cure, which requires the cruise line to cover medical care and basic living expenses during recovery. Our attorneys have a detailed breakdown of maintenance and cure rights for injured seafarers available for those navigating this process.

Navigating Jurisdiction in International Waters

One of the most complex aspects of a cruise ship sexual assault case is determining which laws apply and where to file a claim. When an incident occurs in international waters, multiple legal systems may come into play simultaneously.

The Overlapping Jurisdictions Involved

Flag state jurisdiction gives authority to the country where the ship is registered, typically Panama, the Bahamas, or Liberia. U.S. federal jurisdiction applies when the ship departs from or arrives at an American port, or when a U.S. citizen is involved, bringing FBI authority into the picture. Port state jurisdiction can also apply when a ship is docked, allowing the country where the port is located to assert legal authority. General maritime law also applies and frequently governs civil claims in U.S. courts. Most passenger civil cases are also required to file where the passenger ticket contract dictates.  

How We Help Survivors Navigate These Challenges

Cruise lines are skilled at exploiting jurisdictional complexity to avoid accountability. They employ legal teams trained to move quickly after an incident, so survivors need equally experienced advocates from the moment an assault occurs. At Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A., we know how to identify the proper venue for filing, counter dismissal attempts based on technical defenses, coordinate with U.S. and international authorities, and pursue maximum compensation for every dimension of harm a survivor has suffered, including the long-term psychological toll. Incidents that occur during cruise ship shore excursions present additional jurisdictional questions we are equipped to address.

Contact Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A. to Fight for the Justice You Deserve

If you or someone you love was sexually assaulted on a cruise ship, you do not have to face this alone. Our attorneys understand the profound pain survivors carry and the additional burden of confronting a corporation that will fight hard to protect its reputation at your expense. We approach every case with urgency, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to holding cruise lines accountable for the harm they cause.

Recognized as one of the “Best Law Firms”® by US News & World Report every year since 2016, and home to attorneys named “Lawyer of the Year”® in Admiralty and Maritime by US News & World Report, including Charles Lipcon and Jason R. Margulies, Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A., is uniquely positioned to pursue the full measure of compensation you deserve. Schedule a no-cost, risk-free consultation today. Reach us through our secure contact form or by phone at 877-233-1238.