Cruises promise fun, relaxation, and adventure—but scammers are ready to take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. Don’t let their tricks ruin your vacation! Here are seven common cruise scams to watch out for and tips to steer clear of them.
1. Bait-and-Switch Excursions: Don’t Fall for the Oldest Trick in the Book
You book an excursion promising an unforgettable jungle adventure or pristine private beach, only to find yourself herded into a souvenir shop or stuck on a generic bus tour. This classic bait-and-switch scam targets travelers eager to save money by booking with third-party operators instead of through the cruise line.
How to Avoid It:
- Research third-party companies thoroughly on trusted review sites like Cruise Critic or TripAdvisor.
- Stick to well-known operators or book directly through your cruise line for added peace of mind.
- Always ask for detailed itineraries and clarification about cancellation policies before you pay.
2. Fake “Free Gift” Promotions: Watch Out for Hidden Fees
“Congratulations! You’ve won a luxury watch!” If this sounds too good to be true, that’s because it is. Scammers onboard or at port may offer “free” gifts that come with hidden fees, such as exorbitant shipping charges or strings attached to your credit card information.
How to Avoid It:
- Be wary of any unsolicited promotions or giveaways that require personal or financial information.
- Politely decline offers for “free” items unless they are part of a clearly established promotion (e.g., from the cruise line itself).
- Remember, if something feels off, it probably is.
3. Currency Exchange Scams: How to Keep Your Cash Safe
At some ports, unauthorized money changers may offer what appear to be great exchange rates. However, these offers often come with hidden fees or outright scams, leaving you with far less value than expected—or fake currency altogether.
How to Avoid It:
- Use ATMs affiliated with well-known banks instead of standalone machines or street vendors.
- Research exchange rates beforehand and calculate your expected amount to avoid surprises.
- Whenever possible, use credit cards with no foreign transaction fees for safer and more transparent transactions.
4. Taxi Scams: Avoid Overcharges and Long Routes
Taxi drivers in some ports may take a longer route, inflate the fare, or add unexpected fees to overcharge passengers. Tourists unfamiliar with the local area or currency are easy targets for these scams.
How to Avoid It:
- Agree on the fare before getting in the taxi, or insist the driver uses a meter if required by local regulations.
- Research common taxi fares for the area in advance and consider using ride-sharing apps where available.
- Be cautious of drivers who seem overly eager or pushy about taking you to specific locations.
5. Jewelry Cruise Scams: Don’t Let Fake Deals Fool You
Port shops often entice tourists with promises of “deep discounts” or “exclusive deals” on luxury jewelry. You will often see this in ports where buyers are known to find good deals. However, some of these items may be overpriced or even counterfeit, leaving buyers with little recourse after their purchase.
How to Avoid It:
- Avoid impulse purchases—take time to verify the legitimacy of the shop and its offerings.
- Research reputable jewelers at your destination before your trip.
- Be skeptical of high-pressure sales tactics and claims of massive discounts on items that “must be purchased today.”
6. Fake WiFi Networks: Protect Your Data at Sea
While reliable internet is a luxury at sea, scammers may set up fake WiFi networks near ports or in public areas. These networks appear legitimate but are designed to steal your personal information when you log in.
How to Avoid It:
- Only connect to networks you recognize, such as the cruise line’s official WiFi or verified hotspots in well-established venues.
- Avoid entering sensitive information like credit card details while using public WiFi.
- Consider portable internet solutions or offline maps and guides to minimize your reliance on unknown networks.
7. The “Too-Good-to-Be-True” Tour Deal: Cheap Can Be Costly
Scammers often target travelers at ports with irresistibly cheap tour offers, promising exclusive access to local attractions or premium experiences. Unfortunately, these tours may cut corners, provide poor service, or even vanish after taking your payment.
How to Avoid It:
- Be cautious of overly pushy sales tactics or prices that seem far below market rates.
- Ask fellow travelers or your cruise staff for trusted recommendations.
- Book excursions in advance through verified operators to avoid last-minute decisions that might lead to disappointment.
Bonus Tips to Stay Safe
- Research Before You Go: Spend time reviewing your cruise line, ports, and excursions on travel forums or blogs. Knowledge is your best defense.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables in a safe place, and be mindful of your surroundings at all times.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, walk away. Your safety and peace of mind are worth more than any deal.
Sail Confidently
By staying informed and vigilant, you can outsmart scammers and focus on what truly matters: enjoying your cruise! With these tips, you’re ready to confidently navigate any stormy waters.
Know someone planning a cruise? Share this article with your fellow travelers to help them avoid common scams and enjoy smooth sailing on their next adventure!
