When stepping aboard a cruise ship, most passengers envision fun, relaxation, and luxurious amenities—not the thought of encountering a jail. However, “Do cruise ships have jails?” often arises, especially among first-time cruisers or those curious about maritime security.
Surprisingly, most modern cruise ships have a secure holding area, colloquially called the “brig.”
This article explores the existence of jails on cruise ships, why they’re there, how they operate, and other little-known features like morgues onboard.
Whether you’re a frequent traveler or simply curious, this guide covers everything you need to know about these hidden facilities.
Why Do Cruise Ships Have Jails?
Cruise ships operate as floating cities, often hosting thousands of passengers and crew at any given time.
As with any city, disputes, misconduct, or crimes can occasionally occur.
To ensure the safety and security of everyone onboard, cruise ships are equipped with secure spaces—called brigs—to temporarily detain passengers or crew who pose a risk to others or violate laws.
The primary reasons cruise ships have jails include:
Managing Passenger Misconduct:
Even minor incidents of misconduct can escalate and disrupt the overall experience for everyone in the confined environment of a cruise ship.
Excessive alcohol consumption leading to disorderly behavior, petty theft, or verbal and physical altercations may necessitate temporary detainment in the brig to prevent further disruption and ensure the safety of other passengers.
Addressing Criminal Activity:
While statistically rare, serious crimes can occur on cruise ships, just as in any other community.
Incidents of assault, battery, drug possession, or other unlawful activities require immediate intervention and containment. The brig provides a secure space to detain individuals suspected of committing crimes until appropriate authorities can take over.
Mitigating Safety Risks:
Individuals exhibiting erratic behavior, experiencing mental health crises, or posing a danger to themselves or others may need to be temporarily detained for their protection and the safety of those around them.
The brig offers a controlled environment where individuals can be monitored and receive necessary assistance until they can be transferred to appropriate care facilities.
Strict protocols and legal considerations govern the operation of brigs on cruise ships.
Detainment in the brig is typically temporary, used to manage immediate risks and maintain order until the ship reaches port or other authorities can intervene.
Cruise lines work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure criminal activity is appropriately investigated and prosecuted.
What Is a Cruise Ship Brig Like?
The brig on a cruise ship is not as dramatic as the jails depicted in movies. Instead, it’s typically a small, secure room in a low-traffic ship area near the lower decks or crew quarters.
These areas are often sparsely furnished, featuring a simple bed or bench and minimal comforts. The brig’s purpose is solely functional—to temporarily detain someone until the ship reaches the next port of call or law enforcement authorities arrive.
Maritime laws govern brigs, and the actions taken within them must comply with international regulations.
Do Cruise Ships Have Morgues?
In addition to brigs, most large cruise ships are equipped with morgues. While it’s a somber topic, these facilities are a necessity for handling emergencies and unfortunate situations, such as the passing of a passenger or crew member during the voyage.
Cruise lines are prepared to maintain professionalism and dignity in such circumstances.
Key Facts About Cruise Ship Morgues
Capacity: Morgues can typically store 1-3 bodies, depending on the ship’s size.
Location: Like brigs, morgues are in discreet, lower-deck areas to ensure privacy.
Procedures: If a death occurs, the body is stored until the ship reaches the nearest port, where local authorities take over.
Features of Some Cruise Ships
Cruise ships are engineering marvels equipped to handle an array of situations. In addition to brigs and morgues, some ships also feature:
Medical Facilities:
Cruise ships typically house medical centers with doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals. These facilities are equipped to handle common illnesses, injuries, and emergencies. They often have essential diagnostic equipment, pharmacies, and sometimes even isolation wards for infectious diseases.
Security Offices:
Cruise ships have dedicated security teams and offices to maintain order and ensure the safety of all passengers. These trained personnel enforce ship rules, respond to security incidents, and prevent disruptions to the voyage.
Surveillance Systems:
Surveillance cameras and other monitoring systems are strategically placed throughout the ship. This comprehensive surveillance helps ensure the safety of passengers and crew members, deters crime, and aids in investigations if any incidents occur.
Brigs:
Also known as ship jails, brigs are secure holding cells where individuals who commit serious offenses or pose a threat to the safety of others can be detained temporarily.
Morgues:
In the unfortunate event of a passenger or crew member’s death, cruise ships have morgues where the deceased can be respectfully stored until the ship reaches a port where appropriate arrangements can be made.
Common Reasons for Being Sent to the Brig
While most cruises are drama-free, certain behaviors can result in a trip to the brig:
- Excessive Intoxication:
Passengers who become unruly due to overindulgence in alcohol may be detained. This includes causing a disturbance, harassing other passengers or crew members, or engaging in any behavior that jeopardizes the safety and security of the ship.
- Physical Altercations:
Fighting or causing harm to another passenger or crew member. Any violent behavior, including threats, intimidation, or assault, will not be tolerated and may result in confinement to the brig.
- Drug Possession:
Bringing illegal substances onboard is a serious offense. Possession, distribution, or use of illicit drugs can lead to immediate confinement and potential legal action upon arrival at the next port.
- Theft or Property Damage:
Misconduct involving other passengers’ belongings or ship property. Stealing, vandalism, or any intentional damage to the ship or personal property can result in confinement to the brig.
- Disobeying Crew Members:
Failure to follow the instructions of crew members, especially during emergencies or safety drills, can result in confinement to the brig. This includes refusing to wear a life jacket, evacuate the ship, or follow safety procedures.
- Sexual Assault or Harassment:
Any form of sexual misconduct, including unwanted advances, groping, or assault, will result in immediate confinement to the brig and potential legal action.
- Stowaways:
Attempting to board or remain on the ship without proper authorization is a serious offense and can result in confinement to the brig. Stowaways may also face legal action upon arrival at the next port.
It’s important to remember that these incidents are rare, and cruise lines prioritize creating a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone onboard.
By following the rules and regulations, respecting fellow passengers and crew members, and behaving responsibly, passengers can ensure a pleasant and incident-free cruise experience.
What Happens After Detainment?
When someone is placed in the brig, the cruise ship’s security team follows a structured protocol to ensure the safety and security of all passengers and crew members while respecting the rights of the detained individual:
Investigation:
Security personnel conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged misconduct. This may involve:
- Gathering evidence, such as photos, videos, and physical items related to the incident.
- Interviewing witnesses, including other passengers, crew members, and the detained individual.
- Documenting the incident in detailed reports, including the events’ date, time, location, and description.
- If necessary, consult with the ship’s medical team to assess any injuries or medical concerns.
Communication:
The ship’s captain and security team communicate with the appropriate law enforcement authorities at the next port of call. This communication may include:
- Providing details of the incident and the evidence gathered.
- Sharing information about the detained individual, including their identity and any relevant criminal history.
- Requesting assistance from local authorities, such as law enforcement officers or medical personnel.
- Coordinating the transfer of custody of the detained individual upon arrival at the port.
Transfer of Custody:
Upon arrival at the next port of call, the detained individual may be handed over to local authorities for further action. This may involve:
- Arrest and detention by law enforcement officers.
- Questioning and further investigation by local authorities.
- Prosecution and legal proceedings, if warranted.
- Deportation or other immigration actions, depending on the individual’s nationality and immigration status.
Important Considerations
The specific procedures and actions taken may vary depending on the severity of the offense, the laws of the country where the ship is registered, and the jurisdiction of the next port of call.
The cruise line typically cooperates with local authorities and guides them in handling such situations.
The rights of the detained individual, including the right to legal counsel and due process, are generally respected.
Are There Laws Governing Cruise Ship Jails?
Cruise ships operate under maritime law, which governs their actions at sea. In criminal activity cases, the ship’s flag state (the country where the ship is registered) often determines jurisdiction. For example:
- U.S. Ships: U.S. laws apply if the ship is registered in the United States.
- International Waters: Incidents occurring in international waters may be subject to the jurisdiction of international maritime law or the ship’s flag state.
Call the Law Offices of Charles D. Naylor for Cruise Ship Incidents
If you’ve been involved in a cruise ship incident, whether it’s detainment, an injury, or another issue, the Law Offices of Charles D. Naylor can help. Our experienced maritime attorneys understand the complexities of maritime law and can guide you through every step of your case. From brigs to onboard injuries, we handle everything with professionalism and dedication.
Reach out today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the legal complexities of maritime incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do cruise ships have morgues?
Yes, most cruise ships have morgues. Due to the large number of passengers and crew members on board and the duration of voyages, it is necessary for cruise ships to have facilities to properly store deceased individuals until they can be transferred to shore.
2. Are there security guards on cruise ships?
Yes, cruise ships have trained security teams. These teams are responsible for maintaining order, enforcing ship rules and regulations, and responding to any security incidents that may arise.
3. Can you be arrested on a cruise ship?
Passengers cannot be formally arrested on a cruise ship, as this power is reserved for law enforcement officials. However, passengers can be detained in the ship’s brig (jail) for serious offenses. They will then be handed over to the appropriate authorities at the next port of call.
4. Are incidents in the brig reported to law enforcement?
Yes, serious incidents that occur in the brig are reported to law enforcement. Depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the offense, law enforcement officials may board the ship at the next port of call to take over the case and apprehend the detainee.
5. What should I do if I’ve been wrongfully detained on a cruise ship?
If you believe you have been wrongfully detained on a cruise ship, it is crucial to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Contact a maritime attorney or a law firm specializing in maritime law, such as the Law Offices of Charles D. Naylor, to discuss your case and explore your legal options. A maritime attorney can advise you on your rights, represent you in legal proceedings, and help you pursue any remedies available for your wrongful detention.
While cruise ships offer a fun and relaxing vacation experience, it’s important to be aware of the rules and regulations onboard. If you find yourself in a legal situation, seeking professional legal advice is crucial to protect your rights and navigate the complexities of maritime law.
