Cruise escalation: Man gets 8,900 euros after being expelled from board!

Cruise escalation: Man gets 8,900 euros after being expelled from board!

A remarkable ruling by the Düsseldorf Regional Court is causing a stir in the world of cruises. In a case arising from a dispute between a traveler and a shipping company, the court ruled that passengers cannot be removed from a cruise ship without warning. The case involves a man who was accused of urinating in a glass. Other guests reported that the man placed the glass on the table, which was confirmed by the crew. The defendant vehemently denied the allegations.

Three days after the incident, which caused a stir for many, the man and two fellow passengers were denied entry to the ship. Even the captain expelled them from the ship and asked the men to book their return flights independently. This led to the man filing a lawsuit against the shipping company for immediate termination of the travel contract.

Judgment and financial compensation

The court found that the incident did not constitute a serious breach of duty that would justify immediate dismissal. The judge emphasized that the man's behavior was seen as disruptive, but not violent or abusive. The expulsion from board was only issued three days after the incident, even though the ship had called at another port during that time. The other two men who were merely present were also supposed to leave.

As a result, the plaintiff was awarded a refund of the travel price in the amount of over 4,300 euros. In addition, he receives 1,600 euros for return flights and taxi costs as well as 3,100 euros as compensation for wasted vacation time. This ruling not only provides relief for the affected traveler, but could also have an impact on future travel law decisions.

Legal situation for cruise passengers

The case also highlights important aspects of the rights of cruise passengers. According to information from ADAC, passengers are entitled to a reduction in the travel price in the event of defects during a cruise. Possible defects include a changed route, canceled shore excursions or uncleanliness in the cabin. Cruises are legally considered package holidays, which give passengers the right to a pro-rata refund.

If there are defects, we recommend that you first request remedial action. The amount of the reduction depends on the individual impairment, although there are set rates for common defects that range between 0% and 100% of the daily trip price. Passengers can also make claims in the event of delays or cancellations, subject to the conditions of EU passenger rights.

This development in the Düsseldorf Regional Court could become an important precedent for the rights of travelers. While cruises are often perceived as luxurious vacations, this case shows that passenger rights and fair treatment must remain at the center of the discussion.

The full details of this case are on sueddeutsche.de to read, while further information on passenger rights is available adac.de be provided.