Cruise passengers warned over little-known scam | Travel News

Cruise ship passengers have been alerted to a new scam that has lately affected quite a few travellers.

Cruise knowledgeable Gary Bembridge, in his newest Tips for Travellers video, shed gentle on how unsuspecting vacationers are being exploited, typically by people posing as pleasant locals or resort representatives.

He warned cruisers to rethink earlier than signing up for journey golf equipment, which might entail hefty charges and long-term commitments.

He initiated the video by stating: “This one seemed to be an issue mostly in busy Caribbean and Mediterranean ports, but a couple on my recent cruise that called into ports on the Mexican Riviera got trapped too.

“On researching this scam for this, I found a new article had appeared on ‘The Points Guy,’ a massive and well-known journey advice web site, warning concerning the growth of this one. They spoke about how vital numbers of critically out-of-pocket cruisers had been contacting them coming home from cruises affected by this one.”

The expert then broke down how the scam operates. According to Mr Bembridge, at cruise ports, seemingly friendly representatives at well-maintained stands offer what appears to be a dream deal: a complimentary day pass to a stunning resort, inclusive of transfers, food, and drinks – all for attending a brief presentation.

Once holidaymakers settle into the resort with a few drinks, they’re often lured into a travel club pitch.

It’s the age-old high-pressure tactic: dazzling promises of cut-price deals on flights, hotels and excursions, all in exchange for a hefty initial fee and regular monthly payments.

He warned: “Caught up within the buzz and drink, many signal the contract to affix the journey membership.

“Only once back on the ship fully realising how much it will cost them, and how restrictive they can be, as they soberly reflect on it. Unlike countries like the USA and UK, the laws in those countries do not have ‘cooling off’ periods and so they are locked in for years with the provider having their financial details,” he added. 

“So before accepting a day pass for anywhere, fully understand what your obligation is in exchange.

“Be extraordinarily cautious in case you go to any of these with the shows and refuse to signal something on the day and say that you’re going to come back to them. There’s no such factor as a free resort cross in actuality.”