5 Terms And Conditions That Could Spoil Your Getaway

1. Alcohol Law can be Strict

Just when you thought you were allowed to have some fun on your cruise trip, take note of this particular rule. There are cruise ships that can fine you if you drink alcohol that wasn’t purchased on board the ship itself. While it’s less common these days – or at least just less commonly enforced – do look through the fine print.

You may officially be prohibited from drinking, say, cans of beer that you brought aboard on the ship; even if you bought them at an island stopover.

While you can probably get away with it in the privacy of your own cabin, think twice before bringing it up on deck, or into any of the restaurant areas. And remember: just because they may not be particularly strict in enforcing it, doesn’t mean they can’t.

Needless to say, getting fined RM1,000 just for opening a liquor bottle in the wrong place is definitely not worth it.

2. They May Not Compensate You With Cash If Something Goes Wrong

Whether your cruise got delayed, damage over entertainment venues or your cruise left early without you, you should know that the company may not compensate you in full cash. Instead, the compensation may come in the form of cash vouchers, discount vouchers, or a free cruise trip in the future, depending on the situation.

Anyway, always ask for clarity on the compensation including the forms, date, time, expiry period (if applicable) and terms & conditions.

3. Cruise Staff Can Search Your Luggage And Belongings

If there is an emergency or special situation such as theft or other criminal activities involved, some cruises do allow their staff to search through their guests’ belongings if police forces are not able to access the cruise at that point.

So be sure to ask the cruise company about this clause before buying a trip to avoid any misunderstandings should this happen.

4. Subcontractors Get The Blame

Several facilities and services on the cruise may not be liable or governed by the cruise company. They are called subcontractors such as the food caterer, doctors or even entertainment venues. If you are not satisfied with the any of these services, you will need to clarify first who to complain to and get your compensation from.

By asking the cruise company prior to the trip, you can save so much time by directing your complaints or lawsuit (if it comes to that) to the right party in the future.

5. Contract With The Cruise Company Is Subjective To The Country

You may have a contract with the cruise company but it may not be enforced by a court of law in another country, which means it may take longer for you to win a lawsuit against the company. Our advice? Clearly check the terms and conditions: some cruise companies are subject only to the jurisdiction of the country where they’re registered. If the contract is enforceable only in, say, Netherlands, then there’s little chance of you successfully suing them if anything goes wrong.

Don’t let us scare you with these terms & conditions away from your cruise trip! We want to make sure you get what’s best for you in case things go wrong. As long as you are clear of the precautions and steps to take, you are good to go to have a great time.

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