Disclaimer: This article covers a very sensitive incident. While every effort has been made to approach the topic carefully and respectfully, the content may be distressing or triggering to some readers. If you or someone you know may be affected by this topic, consider seeking support from a professional.

The allure of the open sea and the promise of a carefree holiday can be irresistible, especially for those who've spent a lifetime dreaming of a well-deserved break.

Cruises have long been famous for seniors looking to explore the world in comfort and style.

However, a shadow has been cast over the cruise industry with recent allegations of 'predatory' behaviour in the casinos of P&O cruise ships.


The serene image of cruising might be under threat as legal firm Carter Capner Law considers a class action lawsuit against cruise line giant P&O.

The firm alleges that P&O has been engaging in unethical practices that prey on vulnerable passengers, particularly in the wake of a tragic incident where a man lost his life after jumping overboard off Sydney Heads.


The incident, which occurred in the early hours of 6 May 2024, has raised serious questions about the conduct of P&O's onboard casinos.

According to Carter Capner Law director Peter Carter, the man who jumped had reportedly lost thousands of dollars over two nights of gambling in the cruise ship's casino.


The firm accuses P&O of incentivising guests to gamble by offering credit without proper checks on their ability to repay and by providing free alcohol and cruise offers—practices generally prohibited in Australian casinos.

Mr Carter has also accused P&O of detaining passengers and their families, interrogating them about casino debts upon disembarkation in Australia, a practice he claims is against the law.

This has raised concerns about the potential for 'unlawful imprisonment' and the recovery of financial losses incurred by passengers.

The legal firm is considering a class action against P&O's owner, Carnival Cruises, and asking other affected passengers to join the potential claim.

Since the news of the investigation broke, the firm has been flooded with stories from Australia and New Zealand, painting a troubling picture of the cruise line's practices.


One such story involves a man, referred to as Paul, who was allegedly held onboard for three hours over a casino debt while his partner and children waited for him.

In another case, a man claimed he was offered a free cruise with unlimited drinks and a daily credit limit of $5,000 despite the cruise line's knowledge of his gambling issues and unpaid debts.
Have you ever felt pressured to gamble more than you intended on a cruise? Have you encountered any issues with casino debts while at sea? Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.