Few evening excursions sound more romantic than a dinner cruise. There are numerous companies in Miami that offer locals and tourists alike the opportunity to enjoy a meal while the sun sets and the stars come out over the water.
Dinner cruises are much shorter excursions than multi-day cruises, leaving people under the impression that they may face fewer risks. However, any outing on a commercial boat is an opportunity for injury. The three risks below could turn a romantic dinner cruise into a nightmare.
1. Slippery decks
Especially if the water is choppy or precipitation falls during the cruise, slippery surfaces become an immediate hazard. People can fall overboard, resulting in potentially catastrophic injuries. They can also experience a same-level fall on the vessel that could cause broken bones, brain injuries and other issues.
2. Foodborne illnesses
Cruise ships, including vessels offering single-day excursions, generally need to adhere to food safety standards. Unfortunately, those working on a dinner cruise ship might take liberties with spoiled materials or food at the wrong temperature. People can end up seriously sickened from the food they consume on what should be a romantic dinner cruise.
3. Assaults and other violence
Any time many people share space, there are opportunities for conflict that can devolve into violence. Dinner cruises may involve the consumption of alcohol, increasing the possibility of assault and sexual violence. Passengers may become physical with one another over unwanted advances or even who has the table with the best view.
In cases where negligence on the part of a ship operator has inspired preventable injuries, those affected may have grounds for a maritime injury claim. Reviewing the losses sustained after a dinner cruise with a skilled legal team can help consumers understand their options and pursue compensation for their losses.