Travel By Marina - Deluxe Cruises

The sinking of the Costa Cruise Ship Concordia was a tragic accident; apparently caused by negligence or ignorance on the part of the ship’s captain and crew. In the days since the unfortunate incident, it seems apparent that many of those presumed dead could have been saved had they not been given the ill-advised instructions to return to their cabins instead of to head for the life boats.

My heart and my prayers go out to all the survivors of the incident; and to those who have lost loved ones or family members as a result of this tragedy of major proportions.

For those who are wary of cruising out of fear that this incident could be repeated, I would offer a few words of assurance. First, you can rest assured that all cruise lines will be taking a closer look at the safety features they currently employ; and figuring out whether or not these need to be enhanced. You can go to any cruise line’s website and click on “Safety” and read the measures they have in place to assure their passengers’ safety and comfort.

Second, please always purchase travel insurance; especially if you will be cruising from a foreign port; i.e., outside the United States. Most travel agencies will henceforth be requiring all passengers who refuse to purchase travel insurance to sign a waiver form acknowledging that insurance was offered and declined. Those passengers onboard the Concordia who had purchased insurance will have a much easier time getting reim- bursed for unplanned expenses such as hotel rooms in Italy, change penalties for airline tickets, etc. Also if any injuries were incurred, additional medical and/or hospital expenses will be added onto other expenses that were unforeseen.

Third, if you are cruising foreign ports, there are advantages to cruising with a cruise line who is based in the United States. For example, any lawsuits stemming from the Concordia incident will need to be filed in Genoa, Italy, since that’s where Costa Lines is based. Never mind that it’s parent company, Carnival Cruise Lines, is based in Miami. Always consult an experienced maritime attorney for additional assistance and advice regarding claims or suits that will of necessity take place outside the borders of the U.S.

I am continuing to sell cruises and have experienced no cancellations as a result of this sad and tragic circumstance; but my first obligation and concern is to the overall safety and enjoyment of my clients. As a travel professional, I know I speak for all other travel consultants in saying that if I feel a cruise ship or a cruise line is unsafe, I will advise my clients not to cruise that ship or line without hesitation.

Please be an informed consumer, and if you do choose to cruise in 2012, have a pleasant voyage and a safe journey, wherever your travels may take you.

Marina Byrum, CTC
Independent Travel Counselor, Affiliated with CWT Vacations

Tahiti/South Pacific Cruise Vacations