What really happens when a cruise ship leaves passengers behind and why it's allowed

Recently, videos of cruise ships departing ports and leaving behind passengers who got lost and didn't arrive on the ship at the agreed-upon time have become popular on social media.

But why is this happening? Is it legal? As the Daily Mail reports in a report published this Sunday, the explanation is simple: companies can't afford to wait.

Katie Jackson, a seasoned cruise passenger, explains that cruise ships operate on a very strict schedule and must pay large sums of money in advance to dock at ports during a specific period of time.

In addition, another cruise ship may have booked immediately after to take that ship's place.

Another important factor is hiring local pilot and auxiliary boats to transport the ship and passengers in and out of the port when they dock.

Therefore, if a ship were to wait for delayed passengers to return, it could create a domino effect that could potentially affect thousands of people and cost thousands of euros.

Therefore, a cruise ship legally has the right to leave any stray passengers behind. But what happens if you get stranded?

Katie Jackson explains that most passengers who are left behind are not those who have booked excursions with the cruise line. The cruise line is responsible for ensuring all those passengers return to the port on time for departure and is liable in this scenario if the excursion or tour, for example, is delayed. In this situation, they will contact the ship, and the captain will wait for you.

But if you've decided to venture out alone, then your fate is in your hands. Jackson says most of those staying at the pier are travelers who have decided to explore the sights on their own.

The expert advises that the best way to avoid being left behind is to stick with the excursions sold by the cruise line or book with an outside tour operator who guarantees you'll return on time.

If you decide to tour alone, make sure your phone is set to the local time so it's not an hour ahead or behind, and subscribe to cruise line notifications.

But if you're still stuck, don't panic. Jackson says the first thing you should do is find the local port agent and tell them about the situation. They'll then contact the ship and try to get your passport back.

While the ship won't be stopping, the cruise line may arrange for you to meet them at the next port of call. You should also retain your travel receipts so you can submit them for reimbursement to the cruise line or your travel insurer.