GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Cruise Ship Falling-Off Incidents Statistics

Cruise ship falling-off incidents are extremely rare, with an average of only a few reported cases annually worldwide.

Last Updated: June 17, 2024

How we write

In this post, we analyze the alarming trend of overboard incidents on cruise ships, focusing on statistics spanning from 2016 to 2019. The data reveals concerning patterns regarding the frequency, causes, and outcomes of individuals falling off cruise ships, shedding light on the necessity of enhanced safety measures in the maritime industry.

Statistic 1

"In 2016, 9 overboard incidents were reported on cruise ships serving the North American market."

Statistic 2

"2017 saw a small decrease in overboard incidents, with only 7 reported cases."

Statistic 3

"2018 again saw a rise in incidents, with 18 fall-off happenings reported."

Statistic 4

"In 2019, there were 22 recorded incidents of people falling off cruise ships."

Statistic 5

"25% of the people who fall overboard on cruises are thought to do so intentionally."

Statistic 6

"Out of the total fall-off cases, about 17% are attributed to foul play."

Statistic 7

"About 12% of those falling overboard do so while being under influence of alcohol."

Statistic 8

"Most fall-off incidents take place at night."

Statistic 9

"Majority of cruise ship overboard falls (60%) result in fatalities."

Statistic 10

"32 incidents of people going overboard occurred on Carnival Cruise Ships from 2009-2018."

Statistic 11

"Roughly 19% overboard cases on cruise ships involve crew members."

Statistic 12

"Most overboard incidents occur in the Caribbean Sea."

Statistic 13

"On average, rescue attempts for overboard passengers take approximately two hours."

Statistic 14

"The average height of cruise ship decks above the water is about 60 feet, making survival rates low for those falling overboard."

Statistic 15

"Between 1995 and 2011, 165 people fell off cruise ships and 16 off large ferries - only 17% were rescued."

Statistic 16

"Most people who fall overboard do so from the side of the ship, rather than from their private balconies."

Statistic 17

"A cruise ship travels about 15 miles per hour, making it incredibly difficult for someone who has fallen to catch up."

Overall, the statistics on cruise ship falling off incidents reveal a concerning trend of fluctuating numbers over the years, with a significant increase in 2018 and 2019. The data highlights various contributing factors such as intentional acts, foul play, alcohol influence, and the timing of incidents. Most strikingly, a high percentage of these incidents result in fatalities, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and prevention strategies in the cruise ship industry. Additionally, the statistics underscore the challenging nature of rescue attempts due to the height of cruise ship decks above the water and the speed at which the vessels travel. Efforts to address these issues are crucial to ensuring the well-being of passengers and crew members onboard cruise ships.

Jannik Lindner

Jannik is the Co-Founder of Gitnux and has been working in the digital space since 2016. He is specialized in content and tech.

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