The 3 Most Bizarre Thefts on Cruise Ships
Cruise vacations are often considered luxurious escapes, filled with sun-soaked days and starry nights. Yet, beneath these floating paradises, a darker side lurks — an undercurrent of crime occasionally ripples through the serene waters. From art heists to armed robberies, cruise ships have witnessed some truly bizarre thefts that would seem more fitting in a Hollywood thriller than a tropical getaway.
1. Art Heist on the High Seas
In September 2023, a Carnival® cruise from Baltimore to Bermuda became the scene of an audacious art theft. A couple onboard decided to turn their vacation into a crime spree, targeting the ship's art gallery. Under the cover of night, they snuck into the gallery around 2 a.m., stealing two limited-edition sculptures valued at nearly $13,000. The artworks included Kiss the Sea, a lucite sculpture by Robert Wyland, and Tappin' the Keys for the Love by Marcus Glenn.
What makes this theft particularly bizarre is the couple's carefree attitude. The FBI later identified the man through his Facebook profile, where he had posted photos of himself in the same outfit he wore during the heist. Surveillance footage sealed their fate, capturing them leaving the gallery with the sculptures in tow. The stolen items were eventually recovered from the couple's homes, though legal proceedings are still pending.
2. Robbed at Port in Belize
While onboard thefts are concerning, crimes during port excursions add another layer of danger to cruising. In a harrowing incident, passengers from a Carnival cruise ship were robbed at gunpoint while visiting the Altun Ha Maya ruins in Belize. Earlier that same month, another couple experienced an attempted armed robbery near the Museum of Belize.
These incidents underscore the risks that can accompany even the most carefully planned excursions. Despite assurances from local authorities that crime against tourists is rare, such events highlight the importance of remaining vigilant, even in seemingly safe environments. In response, Carnival Cruise Line has committed to increasing awareness among its guests and bolstering security measures at vulnerable ports.
3. Jewelry Heist at Sea
In March 2023, Gary Cooper and Benjamin Greenwood stole nearly $100,000 in goods from a jewelry store onboard MSC Cruises® Virtuosa while intoxicated. The men, who had no prior criminal records, took advantage of the ship's all-inclusive drinks and impulsively committed the theft, hiding the jewelry and later being found drunk in different bars. Despite being found guilty, they avoided jail time, receiving a suspended 15-month sentence and 270 hours of community service, sparking debate about alcohol overconsumption and security on cruise ships.
The Broader Picture of Cruise Ship Crimes
While the idea of being robbed on a cruise ship may seem far-fetched, it's not entirely uncommon. The U.S. Department of Transportation's 2023 crime statistics state that, major crimes, including thefts over $10,000, do occur on cruise ships. In that year alone, 20 such incidents were reported, equating to roughly one theft every 2.5 weeks.
These figures might seem small compared to the millions of passengers who cruise each year, but they are a stark reminder that even on vacation, crime can happen. The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA) mandates that these crimes are reported and made public, providing transparency and keeping passengers informed about potential risks.
Staying Safe at Sea
The majority of cruise vacations are fun and safe, but these incidents highlight the importance of taking precautions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Whether onboard or at port, stay alert to your surroundings. Criminals often target those who appear distracted or unaware.
- Secure Your Valuables: Consider using the ship's safe for your valuables and avoid bringing expensive items on excursions.
- Stick to Safe Areas: When visiting ports, stay in well-populated areas and avoid venturing into unknown or isolated locations, especially alone.
- Follow Cruise Line Guidelines: Pay attention to any warnings or advice your cruise line provides regarding safety at various ports of call.
In conclusion, while cruises offer a chance to escape the everyday grind, they are not immune to crime. By staying vigilant and taking appropriate precautions, you can help ensure that your vacation remains a memorable and safe experience. The bizarre thefts that have occurred on cruise ships serve as a reminder that even in paradise, it's wise to keep your guard up.
References: A Cruise Ship Claims a Vacationing Couple Stole Sculptures From Its Gallery While at Sea | Carnival Passenger Robbed at Port in Belize |Nearly 200 Major Crimes Were Reported on U.S. Cruise Ships Last Year. Here's the Most Common Offense | Cruise Guests Who Stole $100,000 in Jewelry Avoid Jail Time
