What Cruise Line Has the Most Deaths?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re considering taking a cruise, you may be wondering which cruise line has the most deaths. While any loss of life is tragic, it’s important to keep in mind that cruises are generally a safe form of travel.

That being said, some cruise lines have experienced more deaths than others. Here’s a look at some of the statistics:

Cruise Line Fatality Rates

According to a report by Business Insider, the following cruise lines had the highest number of deaths between 2010 and 2018:

  • Norwegian Cruise Line: 27 deaths
  • Carnival Cruise Line: 60 deaths
  • Royal Caribbean: 14 deaths
  • Disney Cruise Line: 4 deaths

It’s worth noting that these numbers don’t necessarily mean that these cruise lines are more dangerous than others. In fact, given the large number of passengers who take cruises each year, these fatality rates are relatively low.

The Most Common Causes of Cruise Ship Deaths

So what are the most common causes of death on a cruise ship? According to CNN Travel, here are some of the leading causes:

  • Drowning: This is one of the most common causes of death on a cruise ship. It can occur in swimming pools or hot tubs, or when passengers fall overboard.
  • Medical Emergencies: Some passengers experience heart attacks or other medical issues while on board.
  • Murder or Suicide: While rare, these types of incidents do occur on occasion.
  • Falls: Passengers can slip and fall on wet decks or in other hazardous areas.

Staying Safe on a Cruise

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of accidents or fatalities on a cruise, there are steps you can take to stay safe:

  • Pay Attention During the Safety Drill: Every cruise line conducts a mandatory safety drill at the beginning of each voyage. Make sure you attend and pay close attention to the instructions.
  • Stay Sober: Alcohol is often free-flowing on cruises, but it’s important to drink responsibly and avoid becoming intoxicated.
  • Avoid Risky Behaviors: Don’t climb on railings, dive into shallow water, or engage in other risky behaviors that could lead to injury or death.
  • Pack Medications and Supplies: If you have a medical condition, make sure you bring all necessary medications and supplies with you on board.

The Bottom Line

While some cruise lines have experienced more deaths than others, taking a cruise is generally a safe form of travel. By taking basic precautions and being aware of potential risks, you can help ensure that your trip is enjoyable and incident-free.