At first glance, the idea of visiting Honduras on a cruise vacation may be appealing. The thrill of exploring an exotic location, the allure of the warm weather, the beauty of tropical beaches – all things that a cruise passenger may wish to enjoy. However, what not many cruise lines will tell you is that Honduras is one of the most dangerous destinations to visit and your safety may be at risk.

What Cruise Lines Won’t Tell You

According to United Nations reports, the Central American nation has the highest homicide rate in the world, due to its prevalence of gang violence and drug trafficking. The Department of State has issued several travel warnings, advising vacationers to exercise extreme caution when visiting Honduras. Crime in Honduras is severely unregulated and the nation’s government lacks the necessary resources to properly investigate cases, prosecute criminals, and protect not only tourists, but the country’s own residents. As a result, both cruise passengers and crew members have fallen victim to theft and violent crimes, including armed robberies, fatal shootings, and sexual assault.

Cruise lines have a duty to protect their passengers and crew members from harm and must employ reasonable protocols to ensure the safety of everyone on board. Yet, time and time again, we have seen far too many individuals become the victims of an accident or crime on the high seas or while in port. Despite the maritime laws in place that aim to protect guests and crew, including the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010, serious accidents and crimes continue to happen, especially while a cruise ship is calling on a Honduran port.

The Importance of Retaining Legal Counsel Following a Cruise Ship Accident or Crime

Because cruise lines often fail to provide adequate safety on board and during shore excursions in port, it’s important for both passengers and crew members to know they have a right to seek legal counsel following an accident, injury, or crime on the high seas or at a foreign port of call. Going up against a major cruise company can be an uphill battle. The cruise industry is a multibillion-dollar industry, and naturally, cruise lines will have a host of attorneys representing them when a passenger or crew member attempts to file a cruise ship accident or injury claim – but so should you.

Though cruise accidents and crimes are widely underreported, as a victim, you have the right to retain the services of an experienced cruise ship lawyer who will help you obtain justice and compensation. The laws that govern cruise operator liability and onboard safety can be quite complex, but having am attorney on your side who knows and understands the intricacies of International Maritime Law can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Our Lawyers are Ready to Assist You Right Now

If you have suffered an injury, crime, or have been harmed in any way while on a cruise to Honduras, we are here to help. Our firm has extensive experience handling Honduran cruise accident cases and will diligently fight to protect your rights. Call Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A. toll-free at (877) 233-1238 or complete our online contact form to speak to one of our attorneys today.