Luxury Cruise Ships Under Legal Scrutiny

A luxury cruise ship company is under investigation by a leading Australian law firm over ‘immoral and offensive’ gambling conduct after a man fell overboard following a massive casino debt.

Carter Capner Law director Peter Carter, a former national president of the Australian Lawyers Alliance, has revealed that his firm has initiated an investigation into P&O Cruises after the death of Shane Dixon, 45, on May 6.

Investigation Triggered by Tragic Incident

The major announcement comes after DailyMail Australia reported that Mr. Dixon fell to his death after accumulating a $9,000 casino debt onboard the Pacific Adventure. He was reportedly enticed by gambling incentives, including free drinks and a free cruise voucher.

Following this revelation, several others came forward with similar distressing stories, including claims of being denied self-exclusion options and being detained and interrogated by staff after failing to settle their bills.

Carter Capner Law’s Stance

Peter Carter criticized P&O’s conduct as misleading and deceptive, asserting that preventing passengers and their relatives from disembarking is unlawful.

‘Providing free alcohol, offering free cruises for those who gamble more, and allowing automatic credit are all examples of egregious conduct,’ he said. ‘Most would agree that this is immoral and unconscionable, but whatever label you use, it is definitely offensive.’

Mr. Carter emphasized that such practices are generally prohibited in Australian venues. I accept that these passengers are adults and choose to gamble knowing the risk, but we are talking about practices that prey on vulnerabilities and actively incentivize people to lose money,’ he said. ‘Then strong-arm tactics are engaged to recover the debt.’

Legal Implications and Potential Class Action

Mr. Carter also warned P&O that detaining people for a debt is illegal and that significant compensation is payable for such actions. ‘The practice of preventing passengers and their families from leaving the ship and interrogating them – even for short periods – while in an Australian port is against the law,’ he said. ‘A cruise line must allow a passenger to leave and follow up any debt through a court if necessary.’

The investigation aims to examine the company’s practices and find solutions for recovering financial losses incurred by former passengers, as well as damages for unlawful imprisonment. ‘There may be legal recourse in a variety of ways and passengers who have been affected have a right to consider this,’ he said. ‘Cruising can be a wonderful holiday but passengers expect a safe and enjoyable cruise without becoming the victim of exploitative practices.’

Possible Class Action

While still in its early stages, the investigation could lead to a class action against P&O. DailyMail Australia has contacted P&O for comment.

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Original source here: Daily Mail