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cruise ship horror books

Suspense on the High Seas: 6 Nail-Biting Novels Set on Cruise Ships

cruise ship horror books

What is it about a cruise ship that inspires mystery writers? Maybe it’s the prospect of a boat loaded with adventure-seeking people steaming toward the horizon. Or maybe it’s the promise of an escape. It might be the irresistible premise of secretive strangers trapped together with no way out but overboard. Whatever the reason, ocean liners have been inspiring suspense fiction since before Agatha Christie first picked up a pen. If you plan to spend your next vacation on the high seas (or at the beach), here are some pulse-pounding suspense books to download to your e-reader or toss into your beach tote.

Dangerous Crossing

Set against the backdrop of a world teetering on the edge of war, this intriguing mystery lures you in on page one. It’s 1939 and tensions are running high in England as Lily Shepherd steps aboard an ocean liner to Australia. She soon meets an array of interesting people, but no one is quite who they seem, and everyone, including Lily herself, is harboring a secret. As one of Lily’s newfound friends observes, “On a boat like this, everyone is running away from something.” Rhys’s vivid characters and rich description pull you along with the story until its surprise ending.

cruise ship horror books

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The Woman in Cabin 10

This twisty psychological thriller follows Lo Blalock, a travel writer aboard a luxury cruise ship in the North Sea. Lo believes she hears a woman murdered in the cabin next door, but all of Lo’s shipmates think she’s crazy. Ware’s atmospheric descriptions and deft plotting keep the reader off balance throughout the story. If you haven’t read a thriller by Ware, THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10—chosen as a LibraryReads #1 Favorite for 2016—is a great place to dive in.

cruise ship horror books

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Death on the Nile

I borrowed this book from my cousin, a devoted Agatha Christie fan, who says it is her favorite of Christie’s many novels. The story follows legendary detective Hercule Poirot, who is cruising the Nile when he meets newlyweds Linnet and Simon Doyle. The couple’s blissful honeymoon is shattered when Linnet is found murdered, and Poirot turns his attention to an array of suspects, all conveniently trapped aboard the boat together (much like the train passengers in Christie’s MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS). With more than 80 novels and story collections to her credit, Dame Agatha Christie is one of the most widely read authors of all time.

cruise ship horror books

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Birds of Prey

Retired Seattle homicide cop J. P. Beaumont is on the Starfire Breeze bound for Alaska when his vacation is interrupted by a murder case. Surveillance video reveals one of the ship’s passengers falling to her death in the icy water, and a witness believes the passenger’s mouth was taped when she went overboard. Beaumont promptly gets pulled into the investigation. The most obvious suspect is the victim’s ex-husband, who just happens to be on board, but Beaumont comes to realize the case is more complicated than it first appeared.

cruise ship horror books

Another mystery set on the Nile, NIGHT TRAIN TO MEMPHIS is one of the bestselling books by Elizabeth Peters. The story features museum curator Vicky Bliss, who is offered a free luxury cruise if she’ll help stop a potential theft of Egyptian antiquities. The slightly campy story line combines ingredients Peters is known for—fast pacing, plot twists, and a dash of Egyptology.

cruise ship horror books

This novel by Florida-based author Carl Hiaasen opens with Joey Perrone falling  off the deck of a luxury cruise ship while cursing her husband. Joey survives her elaborately planned murder and goes on a quest for revenge that takes her to the Florida Everglades. Hiaasen’s trademark dry humor and ecological story turns make this the perfect book to read on a beach towel facing the ocean with an umbrella drink in your hand.

cruise ship horror books

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Flying Off The Bookshelf

20 Books Set on + About Cruise Ships

cruise ship horror books

This post contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

Cruise ships provide a unique setting for stories. They can be places of luxury, opportunities to escape your life, or the setting of an intense locked-room mystery. And in this list of books about cruise ships, you’ll find them all.

Because cruise ships are inescapable once you’re on them, there are a definitely a lot of mysteries set on cruise ships. And even more mysteries that combine the glitz of the 1920s with a murder. But you’ll also find contemporary fiction, a romance, and a YA graphic memoir I love that’s also perfect for adults.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase using a link, I may get a commission at no cost to you.

Novels Set on Cruise Ships

The unsinkable greta james by jennifer e. smith.

cruise ship horror books

After an embarrassing meltdown during one of her concerts, musician Greta James agrees to go on Alaskan cruise with her father. It is a cruise her parents had booked together, but then her mother passed away. And in the wake of her grief Greta hopes to recover herself on the cruise. For fans of contemporary fiction.

This is Your Life, Harriet Chance! by Jonathan Evison

cruise ship horror books

When Harriet Chance’s husband of 55 years passes away, she embarks on the adventure of an Alaskan cruise and sets her sights on a new future. But what she hadn’t planned was how much the cruise was going to make her come to terms with her past. For fans of older heroines and contemporary fiction.

Shipped by Angie Hockman

cruise ship horror books

Henley and Graeme are up for the same position at the cruise company where they work. They’ve been rivals at work for years, but when they have to go on a cruise together and compete for the promotion, Henley discovers that maybe Graeme isn’t as bad as she thought. For fans of rom-coms.

Seven Days in May by Kim Izzo

cruise ship horror books

During World War I, two New York City socialite sisters have plans to leave on a ship for England. One is set to marry a future English Lord, another wants to join the suffragette movement. But then they board the Lusitania and their survival is at stake. For fans of historical fiction.

The Cuban Heiress by Chanel Cleeton

cruise ship horror books

On the Morro Castle, a ship bound to Havana from New York, two women find that their lives are at stake. Catherine, a New York heiress, and Elena, a woman who others thought dead, are both on the ship with secrets from their past that they want to make right. For fans of historical suspense.

Dangerous Crossing by Rachel Rhys

cruise ship horror books

In 1939, war is on the horizon when Lily boards a ship for Australia. But what starts out as a fancy cruise where Lily makes new friends quickly turns dark as two people are killed. For fans of historical fiction and suspense.

Miss Aldridge Regrets by Louise Hare

cruise ship horror books

Lena Aldridge is a nightclub singer in London whose life feels little off track. Then she is offered the chance to star on Broadway and is given a first-class ticket on an ocean liner. But as she becomes friends with an aristocratic family, a death from her old nightclub seems to have followed her on board. For fans of historical mysteries.

Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie

cruise ship horror books

During a cruise on the Nile River, a young girl is murdered and Christie’s classic detective, Hercule Poirot, must figure out what happened. For fans of mysteries.

Do Not Become Alarmed by Maile Meloy

cruise ship horror books

Two families take a cruise together. But when they get off the ship for an excursion in Central America, the children go missing and the parents start to blame each other. For fans of thrillers and suspense.

The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware

cruise ship horror books

Journalist Lo is given the opportunity to cruise on a luxury ship in the North Sea. It’s a dream come true, until things turn dark. She witnesses a woman being thrown overboard, but no one on the ship is actually missing. So what’s going on? For fans of thrillers and suspense.

The Stowaway by James S. Murray and Darren Wearmouth

cruise ship horror books

Two years after a court case in which Maria was the lone juror who let an alleged serial killer go free, she and her family need to get away from it all and take a cruise. But then a passenger goes missing and another one is murdered, and Maria thinks it may be linked to that verdict years ago. For fans of thrillers.

Non-Fiction Books About Cruise Ships

The passenger: how a travel writer learned to love cruises & other lies from a sinking ship by chaney kwak.

cruise ship horror books

In 2019, Chaney Kwak was on board the Viking Sky cruise ship when it was hit by a massive storm: a powerful bomb cyclone. The ships was pitched between huge waves and dangerously lost power. On board, Kwak reflects on the possibility of his death and the life he has back on land. For fans of memoirs and suspenseful adventure stories.

A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again: Essays by David Foster Wallace

cruise ship horror books

While a lot of essays in this book have nothing to do with cruises, we’d be remiss not to mention it in our list of books about cruise ships because it’s title essay “A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again” is all about Foster Wallace’s experience on a weeklong Caribbean cruise. He observes tourists and luxury, reflecting on how it connects to our human desires. This book is for fans of personal essays.

Children’s Books About Cruise Ships

Peter the cruise ship by hans mateboer.

cruise ship horror books

Peter is a cruise ship that travels all over the world meeting friends (other boats and ships), but sometimes finds himself in dangerous situations. Recommended ages: 4-6 years.

Chato Goes Cruisin’ by Gary Soto, Illustrated by Susan Guevara

cruise ship horror books

Chato and Novio are two cats who have somehow ended up on a cruise full of dogs. They are pretty miserable until they see the ship they were supposed to be on — the one full of cats! Recommended ages: 4-8 years.

Middle Grade + YA Books Set on Cruises

The boxcar children: the mystery cruise by gertrude chandler warner.

cruise ship horror books

When the Alden children go on a Caribbean cruise, strange things start happening and they think someone is trying to sabotage the voyage. But why? Recommended ages: 6-10 years.

I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912 by Lauren Tarshis, Illustrated by Scott Dawson

cruise ship horror books

In a list of books about cruise ships, I guess there’s a bit of an obligation to include something about the Titanic. Kids love these I Survived stories, and this one tells the story of George and his sister who must try to survive the Titanic. Recommended ages: 8-10 years.

Voyage on the Great Titanic: The Diary of Margaret Ann Brady, R.M.S. Titanic 1912 by Ellen Emerson White

cruise ship horror books

If you have a kid who loves the Dear America series, this one is set on the Titanic. A young girl from an orphanage is tasked with becoming the companion of a wealthy American woman on board the Titanic. Recommended ages: 9-12 years.

Sammy Keyes and the Killer Cruise by Wendelin Van Draanen

cruise ship horror books

Sammy Keyes is getting to know her new dad on a cruise. But then a famous heiress goes missing and Sammy has to solve the mystery. Recommended ages: 10-12 years.

Displacement by Lucy Knisley

cruise ship horror books

In this graphic memoir, Lucy Knisley volunteers to travel on a cruise with her grandparents to help them out. This is a book not just about the cruise, but also about coming to terms with her grandparents aging. This is definitely a great book for adults, but recommended ages is also 16 and up.

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cruise ship horror books

Horror Will Find You By Air, By Sea, or By Land in These Eight Traveling Horror Novels

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Addison Rizer

Addison Rizer is a writer and reader of anything that can be described as weird, sad, or scary. She has an MA in Professional Writing and a BA in English. She writes for Book Riot and Publishers Weekly and is always looking for more ways to gush about the books she loves. Find her published work or contact her on her website or at addisonrizer at gmaildotcom.

View All posts by Addison Rizer

I don’t know about you, but the holidays always mean traveling of some sort. For me, it means braving the hectic airport and flying home for a week or two to open presents and eat way too much food. For others, it means road tripping across the state to meet family or hopping on a cruise to avoid them and the whole festive season. Trains, boat rides, it’s all fair game. Traveling is a fact of life for a lot of us this season.

We spend so much time traveling in our lives. Just think about how much time you spend commuting or running errands day-to-day. The U.S. Department of Transportation reported on average, Americans spend “just under an hour” driving every day! Add in traveling and moving and the occasional road trip for a change of scenery and the hours add up.

And horror is about nothing if not creepy things finding us in our everyday life. To add insult to scary injury, traveling often traps you in a confined space. The cabin of an airplane, the body of a boat, things with little to no way out until you get wherever you’re going. So, to add some thrill to your next morning commute or flight home, check out these eight traveling horror novels.

Book Cover of The Light at the End by John Skipp and Craig Spector

The Light at the End by John Skipp & Craig Spector

Ten people have been killed on the New York subway by the “Subway Psycho” with seemingly no rhyme or reason, leaving the city in a panic. But those who encounter the killer know the truth: he’s not as human as everyone thinks he is. A group of strangers must come together, fueled by rage and fear, to take care of the monster on their tracks before he takes them all down too.

The Hunger by Alma Katsu cover

The Hunger by Alma Katsu

When The Donnor Party heads out on their journey, they’re expecting some hardship after setting out late in the season. But after misfortune after misfortune reduce their food supply and kill one of the children, their goal to the West is less and less certain. As other members of the party disappear, those left behind divide loyalties and point fingers all in the hopes they’ll make it out of their journey alive.

Book Cover of Adrift by K.R. Griffiths

Adrift by K.R. Griffiths

Suffering from agoraphobia and PTSD after an attack two years ago, Dan and his new wife, Elaine, decide to celebrate their commitment aboard the cruise ship Oceanus. Soon after boarding, though, Dan thinks he sees a body being thrown overboard. Trapped on board in the middle of the ocean with monstruous stowaways lurking in the night, Dan must figure out if what he saw was real and what it meant before it ruins his honeymoon.

Lost Souls by Poppy Z. Brite book cover

Lost Souls by Poppy Z. Brite

Fifteen years ago, vampires Zillah, Molochai, and Twin wander into New Orleans for a little drink and left a young pregnant girl in their wake. Now, Nothing is a teenager who feels like he doesn’t belong with his normal family, in his normal life. He sets out on a road trip to find where he truly belongs, his path intersecting with the members of a rock band, Lost Souls. Their three journeys converge in one bloody, angsty mess.

The Deep by Alma Katsu book cover

The Deep by Alma Katsu

After surviving the sinking of the Titanic, Annie is plagued by ghosts. When another survivor reaches out to her with a job on board the Britannic, the Titanic’s sister ship turned hospital shop during WW1, she agrees. But when she sees a familiar face, one that should have gone down with the ship years ago, she’s convinced the haunting thoughts that have followed her were justified. Something’s on board this ship, too, and now she’s stuck at sea.

book cover for road of bones

Road of Bones by Christopher Golden

When documentarian Teig learns about the 1200 miles of road with bodies of prisoners buried beneath the surface called the Kolyma Highway, his interest is captured. Hiring a guide and gathering his crew, they set out to see the freezing, isolated area and the way of life there. Arriving to a single 9 year old girl living in the village wasn’t exactly what he expected to find. As they flee the long, deadly road, though, the journey is long and the ghosts are on their wheels.

Book Cover of The Three by Sarah Lotz

The Three by Sarah Lotz

Across continents, four planes crash at the same time. Strangely, three of the unexplained crashes were survived by one child, the victims dubbed “The Three.” When a cult leader declares the kids as bringers of the apocalypse, panic rises across the world and the kids are hidden away. But when their behavior gets stranger, their guardians wonder if it’s trauma from the crash or if they really are bringing on something earth-ending in their wake.

Flowers for the Sea cover

Flowers for the Sea by Zin E. Rocklyn

When flooding destroys her kingdom, Iraxi and the other survivors take refuge on an ark upon the water. Life is difficult on board with minimal resources and beasts in the water just waiting for their chance to attack. Pregnant with a child she’s not so sure is human anymore, Iraxi is trapped with no way out in more ways than one. And Iraxi needs something to do with all of her anger for the way everything has turned out.

In the mood for more horror in unexpected and mundane places? Check out these horror novels set underground or these suburban horror novels !

cruise ship horror books

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Your friendly site for all fun things books, ocean horror books perfect to read on the beach or a cruise.

  • by Megan Johnson
  • Posted on March 10, 2023 July 12, 2023

There are affiliate links in here.  I get a small commission if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you

LOOKING FOR HORROR BOOKS ABOUT THE OCEAN?

I love ocean horror. Books, movies, whatever, give me ocean horror! This is a genre that I’ve had a hard time finding a lot in for both books and movies (at least movies that I can stream right now).

I don’t know why I love ocean horror books so much but I do. Maybe it’s because I’m not a water person or because the depths of the ocean are so creepy and mysterious. Who knows.

Whatever it is, I’ve got a list of ocean horror books that I need to read all of immediately. I’ve read two of these so far (The Deep and Rolling in the Deep) but want to read all the others as well.

I’ll update this as I find more and as I read them to share thoughts. And I hope it helps you find a creepy ocean book to keep you up all night!

Ocean horror books shortlist

Short on time but still want to know the best ocean horror books to check out? Look no further! (Or do, I can’t stop you). These are my top picks for the creepiest ocean books.

Into the Drowning Deep

The fisherman.

  • If you want to listen to some of these, consider  trying Audible ! You can get your first month free (one free book) plus tons of others they have for free.  Get that Audible deal here.
  • If you’re on more of a budget, try Everand (formerly Scribd)! You can get 60 days free there with my link! You can read books and listen to audiobooks. It is unlimited (especially the reading) but if you listen to tons of new audiobooks you may be restricted after a few. I haven’t encountered this yet, but I do use Everand myself and like it a lot. Get 60 days free here!
  • Shop my collection of bookish goodies on Etsy ! These aren’t my shop items, but other shops I’ve curated into a book-themed collection. Shop my Etsy bookish goodies here!
  • If you want to read more on your Kindle but don’t want to buy books, Kindle Unlimited is a good option. If you read a lot and like to read more than just new releases (especially romance), it could be worth it. Get Kindle Unlimited here !
  • Get $5 off of $25 from BookOutlet! This is a great place to find new books for pretty cheap. They also have sales quite a bit, so keep an eye out for those. I tend to check here for books I want if they’re more expensive other places. They don’t have everything but they do have a lot. Shop BookOutlet here!
  • Thrift Books has become my go-to when I’m looking for a book and want it cheap. It’s great if you like buying used books. With this you can get a free book after spending $30!
  • Shop my book lists here! You can find every book list I have on Bookshop.org (except my monthly round-ups) and I add everything I can but they occasionally won’t have some. I do occasionally add extras though. If any lists are empty, they’ll be filled in shortly! Shop my bookshop.org book lists here .

cruise ship horror books

A plague called the ‘Gets is destroying humanity and there is no cure. But, there is a universal healer called ambrosia that was discovered eight miles below the surface of the sea.

A research lab is built there, underwater, but one day it goes dark and a few people brave the depths to unravel the crushing mystery.

I read this one and I won’t lie, I didn’t love it. I liked The Troop by Nick Cutter a lot more but it’s still worth trying because you may love it.

cruise ship horror books

There is literally no description of this online but if you’ve seen the movie, here’s the book!

The town of Amity is plagued by a great white shark who killed a young tourist one night. When officials realize it was a shark attack, the police chief demands the beaches be closed but the mayor overrules him, worrying tourism will be affected.

Attacks continue and tourists swarm hoping to catch a glimpse of the shark. Three men head out to try and kill the shark and return Amity to safety.

cruise ship horror books

Abe and Dan are friends and widowers who have heard of the promises of Dutchman’s Creek, flowing from the Ashokan Reservoir. They dismiss the story but soon find themselves drawn into a story as old as the reservoir itself and they must now face all that they’ve lost.

This one doesn’t quite seem like direct ocean horror but it seems close enough for now.

cruise ship horror books

The ocean floor off the coast of Mauritius is rapidly collapsing but Carrie, a world-champion free-diver and marine biologist, is determined to find out why and to stop it.

But what they discover is even more horrific than they imagined. Something deep under the surface is awake and hungry. Now Carrie and her colleagues have to face not only a corrupt operation but a monster that may cause human extinction.

cruise ship horror books

From the moment they set sail, passengers of the Titanic have disappeared, died, or found themselves in a strange twilight zone. Something is haunting the ship but before Annie, Mark, Madeleine, and Benjamin can find out what, disaster strikes.

Years later Annie is trying to put her life back together and is working as a Nurse on Titanic’s sister ship, Britannic, where she happens across an unconscious Mark, now a soldier in World War I.

At first, she is relieved but soon enough she is facing the demons of her past as they both realize the terror may not really be over.

cruise ship horror books

Seven years ago, seven miles below the surface of the Pacific Ocean, Dr. Jonas Taylor encountered what he is convinced is a remaining population os megalodons in the Mariana Trench.

He leaps at the chance to return to the site but his quest for knowledge soon becomes a fight for his life.

Mount Misery

cruise ship horror books

Something in the Long Island Sound is terrorizing locals. Katie DiNardo and Nick Tanner have seen the damage but are at a loss to what the species could be. But they need to get to the bottom of it before it’s too late. People are dropping like flies and there’s no saying what other kind of damage will occur if they don’t figure out what’s going on soon.

Rolling in the Deep

cruise ship horror books

This is a short book about mermaids (just 128 pages) and is different than the usual falling in love with a human story. The Imagine Network commissioned a documentary about mermaids to be filmed from the cruise ship Atargatis, but they really didn’t expect to see anything that they didn’t normally, like eyewitness accounts that amounted to nothing.

And they really didn’t expect to see real mermaids and certainly not with teeth. Whether it’s a hoax or a tragedy, this is the story of the Atargatis, lost at sea with all hands on deck and the truth can only be found below the bathypelagic zone in the Mariana Trench.

I read this one and really enjoyed it! It’s the perfect creepy mermaid book.

cruise ship horror books

The Atargatis set off to film a mockumentary in the Mariana Trench seven years ago. It was meant to bring ancient creatures of the sea to life but instead, it was lost at sea with everyone aboard. Some say it was a hoax, some say it was a tragedy.

Now, there is a new crew but they’re aim isn’t to entertain. Some want the truth, some want to validate their life’s work, and Victoria wants to uncover the fate of the sister she lost. They can only find the truth underwater and it comes with a price.

cruise ship horror books

Whales start sinking ships; toxic crabs poison Long Island’s water supply; the North Sea shelf collapses, killing thousands. The ocean is taking revenge on mankind and the survival of Earth and humanity is at stake.

cruise ship horror books

Will has never encountered anything more ferocious or deadly than great white sharks and piranhas in his years as a professional diver. Now something is happening off the California coast.

It’s rising from the deep, multiplying, migrating, and worst of all, unstoppable. It leaves a gruesome trail of corpses in its wake and, with the help of Valerie, an oceanographer, Will is in a race against time to stop the monster.

cruise ship horror books

Years ago during a routine voyage, the SS Arcadia vanished without a trace. A strange, garbled message was broadcast but nothing was ever found. Six years later the wreck is discovered more than three hundred miles from its intended course.

Cove and her team have been granted permission to dive in the wreck to film everything and uncover what really happened. But something dark and hungry watches from below and they must fight their way to freedom from the horrors below.

Something’s Alive on the Titanic

cruise ship horror books

In 1975, a classified mission went to the site of the Titanic and encountered something powerful and malevolent, but they could never speak of it. A previous mission ended in tragedy and now a new group wants to retrace the steps of the original 1975 mission. The further into the ship they get though, they realize they’re not alone.

cruise ship horror books

A deadly virus has been unleashed on a passenger ship with no way of escape. Jack, a disgraced police officer, and the mysterious stranger who can see the future and alter the passage of time must try to save the passengers or it could mean the end of the world.

Ocean horror movies

  • Jaws (obviously)
  • The Reef: Stalked
  • 47 Meters Down
  • The Shallows

Have you read any of these ocean horror books? Which ones? Any others I should check out? How about movies?

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Author: Megan Johnson

I'm Megan, a cheesehead at heart currently residing in the Sunshine State. You can probably find me reading, watching Forensic Files, or both. View all posts by Megan Johnson

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25 Best Books Set on a Cruise Ship

books set on a cruise ship fiction

Whether you’re a frequent cruise-goer or someone just embarking on your first trip, reading a novel set on a cruise ship can be a fun way to spend some time while you’re drifting across the ocean and lounging about on the lido deck.

I’ve only been on one cruise (from Seattle to Alaska, which had some really gorgeous views), but my parents are obsessed with cruises and do them all the time. With things finally getting back to normal, they’re antsy to get crusin’ once again, which is what inspired this booklist!

For this list, I’ve rounded up some of the Best Books Set on a Cruise Ship , divided up into genres so you can choose what strikes your fancy.

There’s quite a few murder mysteries of various varieties on this list, probably because cruise ships make for a great environment for that type of story, with lots of strangers stuck together for long periods of time and stops at exotic places in between.

Have you read any of these titles or was there something you were expecting to see on this list that was omitted? Free free to leave a comment if so!

Mysteries Set on a Cruise Historical Fiction Set on a Cruise Romance Set on a Cruise Other Books Set on a Cruise

Mysteries Set on a Cruise

An expert swimmer, Joey makes her way to a floating bale of Jamaican pot-and then to an island inhabited by an ex-cop named Mick Stranahan, whose ex-wives include five waitresses and a TV producer.

Now Joey wants to get revenge on Chaz and Mick's happy to help her.But in swampy South Florida, separating lies from truths and stupidity from brilliance isn't easy. Especially when you're after a guy like Chaz-who's bad at murder, great at fraud, and just terrible at getting caught...

Historical Fiction Set on a Cruise

Romance set on a cruise, other books set on a cruise.

books set on a cruise ship fiction

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Just came to say that the only cruise i have been on was also from Seattle to Alaska! Also, I totally meant to read Sweet and forgot about it until seeing this post, so thank you for the reminder!!

Hercule Poirot is a favorite character of mine and I’ve definitely been in the mood for cruise ships and summery reads :) Great list!

thanks megan! and yes I’m such a huge agatha christie/poirot fan! they make for such great breezy mysteries, perfect for the summer! :)

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8 Cruise Ship Cozy Mystery Books That Make for a Chilling Summer

These luxurious vacations set out into dangerous waters.

cruise ship mystery books

  • Photo Credit: "Inspector's Holiday" by Richard Lockridge

With the sun burning bright overhead this summer, many of us are dreaming of ocean getaways to cool down. After all, nothing says summer like a luxury cruise. While we might not all be lucky enough to be able to hop the next boat out of town, there's nothing saying we can't live our fantasies out through books. Be careful, though. Sometimes the most chilling thing aboard these extravagant ships isn't the sea breeze—it's murder.

Related: 17 Beach Reads That'll Give You Chills on a Hot Day

From cozy intrigue to the thrills of classic detective fiction, these seafaring mysteries are the perfect summer read. Get your fill of drama, exotic locales, and romance with these eight cruise ship cozy mystery books.

hercule poirot death on the nile

Death on the Nile

By Agatha Christie

A beloved classic recently made into a star-studded movie adaptation , this book follows detective Hercule Poirot on a luxury cruise along the Nile. The peaceful extravagance of the journey is destroyed when the beautiful young Linnet Ridgeway is found dead, shot through the head. Having previously wished this particular method of death upon the stylish woman, one passenger seems like an obvious suspect. But nothing is ever quite what it seems.

hercule poirot death on the nile

The Woman in Cabin 10

By Ruth Ware

Journalist Lo Blacklock is a travel magazine writer who's just been given the ideal assignment: a week on a luxury cruise. With only a handful of cabins on board, it's an exclusive experience for select guests. As the Aurora sets off in the North Sea, the sun is bright and the waters are calm. But the excitement of the plush accommodations, lavish parties, and distinguished guests wears off men, a few days later, gray skies and frigid winds descend upon the cruise. 

Related: 8 Suspenseful Thriller Books We'd Love to See as Movies

Through the eerie weather, Lo witnesses a disturbing nightmare become reality. A woman is thrown overboard. With all of the passengers somehow accounted for, no one heeds Lo's desperate warnings. The cruise proceeds as normal, but something is very, very wrong.

best thriller books of 2016

Every Body on Deck

By G. A. McKevett

Famous mystery writer Natasha Van Cleef reaches out to the Moonlight Magnolia Detective Agency to offer them free passage aboard an Alaskan cruise in exchange for protection. Savannah doesn't have to be asked twice. The trip is going perfectly well—until Natasha flees the ship with her husband, only to perish in an explosive crash.

Related: 12 Delightful Cozy Mystery Series to Crack Open This Summer

Devastated by their failure, Savannah and her team won't rest until they find the culprit behind this little "accident." But it turns out the drama of Natasha's life is far more complicated than any of the stories she's written. There's no shortage of suspects when the woman's career and personal life was full of bad blood—with a crazed stalker on her trail, no less.

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Shattered at Sea

Shattered at Sea

By Cheryl Hollon

Savannah Webb seizes the perfect opportunity to reunite with her boyfriend Edward's family when she gets a job performing glassblowing on a cruise. But her impressive skills pale in comparison to the drama of Edward's cousin, Ian, disappearing out of nowhere. The authorities determine it to be a suicide, but Savannah has her suspicions otherwise.

She tries to bury her concerns in her work, but tension grows between her and the other glass artists. When Edward becomes the number one suspect in Ian's disappearance, Savannah struggles to remain objective. But she'll do anything in her power to prove his innocence.

Princess Charming

Princess Charming

By Jane Heller

After some heavy persuasion, PR executive Elaine Zimmerman joins her best friends Jackie and Pat on a Caribbean cruise. Unfortunately, the trip gets off to a rocky start when Elaine's luggage goes missing and she has to resort to styling herself in the ship's tacky cruisewear. Her luck turns around when she meets Sam Peck. Elaine doesn't believe in love at first sight , but this is pretty close...

The whirlwind fantasy starts to crumble when Elaine stumbles across evidence that someone aboard the ship is a hitman. One of their ex-husbands has put a hit out on them, and suspicions are plentiful as the women try to figure out who's the mark—and who's the killer.

Clutch of Constables

Clutch of Constables

By Ngaio Marsh

Inspector Alleyn’s wife, Agatha Troy, is an artist with a particular fondness for paintings by John Constable. When presented with the opportunity to take a river cruise through "Constable Country" to honor this remarkable landscape artist of the 19th century, Agatha jumps at the chance. Her excitement is dampened when she learns that her last-minute ticket was only available due to the fact that a passenger was murdered in his cabin.

Related: These Underrated Ngaio Marsh Books Will Shock and Delight

Dark Passage

Dark Passage

By Marcia Talley

Hannah Ives hops on a cruise to bond with her sisters and her 14-year-old niece, Julie. But the good times come to a screeching halt when Pia Fanucci, the magician's assistant Hannah has befriended, almost acquires a serious injury in the midst of an illusion. Pia brushes off the close call, but a whole new problem arises when Julie disappears. Has the teen gone overboard, or is she hurt somewhere on the sprawling ship?

In the midst of her investigation, Hannah meets David Warren. On an earlier cruise, the man's 22-year-old daughter vanished without a trace. With a troubling pattern establishing itself, it's up to Hannah, David, and Pia to stop a predator in their tracks.

Inspector's Holiday

Inspector's Holiday

By Richard Lockridge

While he may not have the same grit as the detectives in the city, New York State Police inspector M. L. Heimrich will follow every wild case to its end. He's faithfully served on the force for many years, but when his wife, Susan, gets pneumonia, he's happy to put his police work on hold. At her doctor's suggestion, Heimrich sweeps Susan away to a warmer climate on a Mediterranean cruise.

Related: 12 Must-Read Murder Mystery Books for Fans of Knives Out

When a British diplomat vanishes from the ship, it seems Heimrich can't escape an investigation for long. The captain asks him to look into the delicate matter.  As he scours for a motive amidst the guests aboard the luxury liner, Heimrich is torn between stopping a killer and caring for his ailing wife.

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Planted in Arkansas (Arkansas Lifestyle Blogger)

21 Interesting Cruise Ship Books to Read on a Cruise

Dated: July 21, 2023 Last Modified: August 27, 2023 by Amy 3 Comments

We just recently returned from our cruise vacation, and I wanted to pop on here with some ideas for cruise ship books to read on a cruise vacation – while this is still on my mind! You know…because I’m at that age where things just don’t seem to stick in my head like they used to!

woman holds cruise ship books, The Cabin Below, over her cruise ship balcony

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I may earn a small commission (at no cost to you) for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial, or link to any products or services from this website.

Leisure Time Well Spent

We had an incredible vacation with Carnival Cruise Lines. We ate like kings, listened to all the live music and DJ playlists we wanted, met lots of great new people, and had plenty of leisure time we normally don’t allow ourselves at home. A lot of this leisure time involved basking in the sun even though I’m not supposed to really spend much time in the sun, and I’m back home with the sunburn to prove it!

And what’s a good time basking in the sun if you don’t have proper reading material? Admittedly, I didn’t plan out my vacation reads with much intention. I have a stack of books at home that have been waiting for me to kindly turn my attention to them. A few are some I bought from Amazon. A couple others are some from a book exchange with my sister-in-law.

The night before we left for the trip, I grabbed a couple to tuck into my backpack. Imagine my surprise when one of the books from my sister-in-law turned out to be a suspense thriller (my favorite genre) that takes place on a cruise ship! What luck!

Reading My Cruise Ship Book on the Cruise

I read my cruise book all over the Carnival Valor. The Cabin Below by N.L. Hinkens was the perfect cruise read for me! There are so many situations in the book that might not have made much sense to me had I not currently been cruising (or had not recently cruised). For example, in the book the main characters have to report to the muster station on their embarkation day – something I had just done an hour before getting to that part in the book. If you had asked me a month ago about a muster station, I would not have been able to remember at all what that even is as it’s been a while since our last cruise.

I read my book all over the place.

I read at the main pool with tons of other people around and a variety of DJs blasting favorite hits.

woman with cruise ship books while she lounges on Carnival Valor pool deck

I read in the quiet of my own cabin balcony with the soothing waves rhythmically moving in the background.

And I read after ordering a bucket of poolside beverages…until I dozed off from said pool drinks since I’m not much of day drinker.

By the way, I took this next picture with my phone in one of those clear phone pouches on a lanyard thingies. The pictures come out a bit more hazy than they do when the phone isn’t in a case, but it’s not bad at all considering I didn’t have to stress about my phone getting messed up by water or sunscreen. I have put it in my carry on so I will have it for future trips.

cruise ship horror books

The Cruise Ship Library

When I was finished reading my book at the end of the trip, I donated the book to my Carnival cruise library so someone else on the upcoming cruises could borrow and enjoy. Isn’t it super cool the ship has a library with books and games that guests can check out on the honor system? It had never even occurred to me that cruise ships have libraries!

You can read or play games at the tables and comfy chairs in the library or you can take the items back to your room. Every time I went into the Carnival Valor library, there were multiple people in there enjoying the peaceful space. My family enjoyed playing some games while I dug through the bookshelves.

family plays games in Carnival Valor library room

The library seemed to have a carefully planned library collection. Obviously, the cruise ship librarian realizes book on cruise ships should appeal to a wide range. There were fiction and non-fiction books – from historical books, Christian-themed books, and novels with a travel focus or a cultural focus. I did notice many books were authored by global authors from around the world which I have a strong appreciation for. There were books featuring identity struggles to family dramas to romances and tragedies set back decades in time. I found quite a few Spanish language novels, and there were plenty of children’s books, as well. I thought the books matched very well to the demographics of guests on the cruise ship.

I was pleased to see there were a few more books with a cruise ship setting in the library collection!

The Cuban Heiress by Chanel Cleeton looked like a great new book! If I had more time to read it after I stumbled upon it in the cruise library, I definitely would have! A suspenseful story set on a luxury cruise liner from New York to Havana, secrets and suspense abound.

woman looks through cruise ship books to read on a cruise in the the ship's library

More Mystery and Suspense Cruise Ship Books

After doing some research, asking friends for recommendations, and doing some more research, I have come up with a list of 10 additional suspense cruise ship books – in addition to the two already mentioned above.

Many of the books are available in Kindle, audio, and paperback formats.

  • The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware – This novel is next on my list of cruise ship books to read on a cruise! It is suspenseful and thrilling, just like I like. On Goodreads, it scores a 3.7. It is an Amazon editor’s pick and receives a nod from Entertainment Weekly and the New York Post.
  • Millie’s Cruise Ship Mysteries (series) by Hope Callaghan – This light-hearted series of 24 mystery books all center around assistant cruise director Millie (a 50-something grandmother) and the shenanigans that unfold aboard a massive cruise ship. You can order one book a time (the first book has a Christmas theme linked below), a set of the first three Millie’s Cruise Ship Mysteries , a set of 10, or the entire series!
  • A Murder Mystery Cruise by Dawn Brookes – Part of the A Rachel Prince Mystery series, this book takes readers on yet another cruise with Rachel Prince – this time a murder mystery cruise. This cruise ship novel scores a 4.4 on Goodreads.
  • Day Four by Sarah Lotz – This thriller takes readers through many twists and turns and a gloomy arrival aboard The Beautiful Dreamer cruise ship. This suspenseful novel scores a 3.3 on Goodreads.
  • Cruise Ship Caper by Tegan Maher (Kindle or audiobook only) – This novella is part of the Witches of Keyhole Lake Mysteries series and follows main character Noelle and friends as they find excitement they hadn’t banked on on a cruise ship.
  • Patricia Fisher Cruise Ship Mysteries by Steve Higgs – This series of 10 cruise ship novels follows passenger Patricia Fisher as she dances around accusations of theft and more features humor, romance, emotional roller coasters, and suspense.
  • Blood Cruise by Mats Strandberg – There should be no guesses as to the suspense and thrill of this book when the cover tagline reads, “On the Baltic Sea, no one can hear you scream.” This thriller rates a 3.4 on Goodreads.
  • Bert and Mamie Take a Cruise by John Keyse-Walker – When a couple sets sail on an African cruise in 1939, the last thing they are expecting is to become cruise detectives! (As this is a new 2023 release, the paperback version is not yet available at the time of this writing. But Kindle and hardback versions are available.)
  • The Last Cruise by Kate Christensen – Join the guests on this retro luxury cruise ship as it takes its last hoorah. Just be prepared for any twists and turns along the way.
  • Death Under the Perseids by Teresa Dovalpage – Part of A Havana Mystery series, this book brings a cruise ship setting and the vibrant city of Havana together as the main character scrambles to uncover secrets.

Romance Books to Take on a Cruise

If romance is more your speed, don’t fret! Here are a few titles with good reviews that will go along perfectly on your cruise vacation!

  • Shipped by Angie Hockman – This novel falls under Amazon editor’s pick for best romance. The plot involves a female main character attending a company cruise.
  • Undercover Billionaire: A Forbidden Cinderella Cruise Ship Romance by Amy Andrews – This sultry romance brings two main characters – male and female – into a ocean-bound romance!
  • Ship of Fools by Katherine Anne Porter – If you enjoy classical reads that pull you back into decades past, you might enjoy this novel set in 1931 with passengers aboard a cruise ship set for Germany. Originally published in 1984, this is a cruise read that has stood the test of time!
  • Cruise Quarters: A Novel About Casinos and Cruise Ships by Cara Bertoia and Raymond Bertoia – If you head for the casino deck the minute you board a cruise ship, this novel, based on real life situation and authored by actual cruise ship casino employees, might be for you!
  • No puedes engañar al amor by Elisabeth Martin – This Spanish language romance novel is the first in a series of protagonist Emily Gilbert and centers around “the most fabulous cruise ship in the world” headed to New York.

Holiday Cruise Books (Christmas Season)

If you are on the countdown for a Christmas cruise, surely one of the following cruise ship books should be in your bag! Some are romance and others are mystery, marked accordingly.

  • Santa Cruise: A Festive and Fun Holiday Story by Fern Michaels – Follow four lifelong friends as they set out for adventure on a singles cruise during the Christmas season. This romance is an Amazon editor’s pick and scores a 3.9 on Goodreads. (Romance)
  • Santa Cruise by Mary Higgins Clark – For all the Mary Higgins Clark fans out there, we had to add Santa Cruise . A peaceful post-holiday cruise turns anything but once the Santa Cruise hits the waves. (Suspense)
  • A Christmas Cruise Murder by Dawn Brookes – This holiday-themed suspense cruise book takes readers along with Rachel as she starts her cruise to the Canary Islands. But, like with many cruises, there are a few bumps along the way! (Suspense)
  • Millie’s Cruise Ship Mysteries: Cruise Ship Crisis by Hope Callaghan – As we’ve already mentioned, the Millie’s series features up to 24 mystery books. But this particular one, the first book, kicks the entire series off with a Christmas cruise theme. (Lighthearted Suspense)

Happy cruising and happy reading, fellow cruisers!

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Amy is a wife, mom, teacher, and content creator/owner of Planted in Arkansas. She loves creating recipes, travel plans, party ideas, and outfits. And she believes in celebrating all things - big and small.

Reader Interactions

Melody Hayden

March 8, 2024 at 10:40 PM

I came across your website as I was searching for books about cruises. Recently I read a book titled “The Untold Tales of a Sailor at Sea” by author L.C.Tang which is all about the hidden truths of the cruise industry. I recommend checking out the boook and perhaps adding it to your website for your followers. You have a very informative website and suggestions for travel enthusiasts.

Travel enthusiast, Melody

March 8, 2024 at 10:38 PM

I came across your website as I was searching for books about cruises. Recently I read a book titled “The Untold Tales of a Sailor at Sea” by author L.C.Tang which is all about the hidden truths of the cruise industry. I recommened checking out the boook and perhaps adding it to your website for your followers. You have a very informative website and suggestions for travel enthusiasts.

March 15, 2024 at 10:07 PM

Thank you, Melody! I will definitely check this one out! I love a good “behind the scenes” type of book!

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World book day is april 23 the ultimate book lovers gift guide for your bookworm bestie, blmxle spin scrubber: transform your cleaning routine, the scariest things that ever happened on cruise ships.

Karen Belz

Many people use the summer season as a time to book trips. They might plan a lazy beach weekend or a trip abroad. A lot of people even book cruises ; they get to enjoy beautiful waters, eat an abundance of food, and drink to their hearts’ content. Usually, those water-filled excursions are relaxing  and  fun. Sometimes, though, things get a little chaotic out on sea. And these cruise ship horror stories prove it.

Cruise ships will always be popular, though. They’re always packed with a lot of fun entertainment . Most have activities and bars on board, along with swimming pools and, sometimes, a celebrity act or two.

Even though this list shouldn’t scare you away from booking a cruise, it’s important to know that cruise ship disasters happen somewhat frequently. An unexpected shortage of food could occur or someone on board may sustain an injury that requires immediate medical attention. The situation could be just a memorable blip or it might send passengers home earlier than expected.

Here are some of the most disastrous events that happened on cruise ships. They may make you want to rethink your summer plans.

 1. The Tilted Ship

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BzQmSD5grf1/”]

This Carnival Cruise went awry quickly.

In 2018, plates and bottles smashed to the ground after an error with a Carnival Cruise ship’s fin stabilizer. In fact, the faulty part derailed the entire excursion , and the ship had to dock in the Dominican Republic for repairs and maintenance. The episode was so scary that many of the ship’s passengers cut the trip short and flew to their various homes. Luckily, the cruise crew identified the problem early.

2. The Costa Concordia Disaster

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BsiRbxVgpF3/”]

A little tilt is scary, sure.

But a small tilt can easily turn catastrophic if the ship’s captain doesn’t move quickly and efficiently. One such thing happened when the Costa Concordia, which operated from 2005 until 2012, tilted. During the wreckage and confusion, 32 passengers and crew members lost their lives. It took over six hours for people to fully evacuate from the ship. And photos of the event are absolutely frightening.

3. The Pirate Attack

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BmOQvz0l60R/”]

Few people think pirates still roam the seas.

They most certainly do, though. And CBS News reported that in 2005, pirates actually attacked a Seabourn Spirit cruise ship. The band of ship robbers initiated the takeover by firing a grenade while the ship was close to Somalia. Passengers went down to the dining area for safety, however. And nobody sustained any serious injuries in the attack.

4. The S.S. Eastland Disaster

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BlMEtqDg7i2/”]

The S.S. Eastland suffered many fatalities in 1915.

Interestingly, though, the ship captains docked the entire vessel to host a gathering for Western Electric employees . Reportedly, 844 passengers and crew members passed after the ship rolled onto its side. Choppy waters or tumultuous sailing weather had nothing to do with the accident. And it’s a bit eerie to realize a ship doesn’t have to be out in the middle of an ocean for a disaster to strike.

5. Carnival Triumph’s Sewage Disaster

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/VxNgLKMIA3/”]

This trainwreck of a cruise ship incident occurred in 2013.

The Carnival Cruise ship passengers expected to hang out in the Caribbean for four idyllic days. Instead, their holiday turned tragic. And everyone endured hardly livable conditions on board after the ship caught on fire and lost power. The sewage got more than a little clogged. Let’s just say, people referred to this particular voyage as the “Poop Cruise.”

6. The Marital Murder

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/Bvt1O-yFqaV/”]

The passengers can be dangerous too.

Kristy Manzanares was enjoying herself on an Alaskan cruise ship back in 2017. Things took a truly horrific turn in 2017, though. The woman’s husband, Kenneth, fatally attacked during a moment of intense rage and aggression. What caused Kenneth to snap? According to an acquaintance who spoke to the aggressor , Kristy “wouldn’t stop laughing” at him.

7. The Viking Sky’s Power Loss

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BvZCDpglYD4/”]

When a ship loses power, things tend to get chaotic .

In March of 2019, for example, the Viking Sky cruise ship was traveling around Norway when they lost power in one of the most treacherous areas of the trip. At least 890 passengers witnessed the windows shatter. The cabins also flooded due to the dangerous weather conditions. Thankfully, no one passed, but 20 people sustained injuries .

8. Royal Caribbean Cruises Spread Illness

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BwcPA–lJZH/”]

Passengers of the Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas cruise ship will remember their trip forever, for all the wrong reasons.

During the Oasis of the Seas voyage, a whopping 500 passengers caught a gastrointestinal disease . The huge cruiseliner was meant to sail through the Caribbean, but so few people could even stomach the voyage. Consequently, the captain cut the entire trip short. The good news is that the passengers all received refunds for their troubles.

9. The Antigua Robbery

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BzYiiJyoSqQ/”]

This cruise made everyone a lot more stressful.

In fact, it’s hard to picture a situation where being robbed at knifepoint wouldn’t make you a little uneasy. In February of 2018, two French passengers were out and about in Antigua while their MSC cruise ship docked. And in a horrible turn of events, the aggressor in a violent robbery stabbed one of the passengers in the abdomen. Fortunately, the authorities found and charged the suspects.

10. The Carnival Splendor Fire

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BzTCLpChKa3/”]

A fire started and the electricity went out.

Passengers on the 201o Carnival Splendor cruise faced challenging situations instead of the nice vacation they planned. After the fire started and the power completely halted, vacationers had to survive on Pop Tarts and hot dog salads . They definitely didn’t get the luxurious buffets they paid for. Luckily, nobody was hurt, but their holidays were cut short.

11. The Possible Murder

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BzYSisYhfw5/”]

Some people lose their lives in very suspicious circumstances.

And a woman in her 50s passed after a serious of particularly confusing events. Princess Cruises revealed that one of their ship’s passengers died on board during 2018. But the company didn’t elaborate on any of the details. In fact, reports suggested passengers saw the woman jump overboard. However, USA Today noted that witnesses allegedly watched a man choke the victim before her body ever left the ship, which was sailing near Aruba at the time.

12. The Missing Honeymooner

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BzRnq3phSeQ/”]

Passengers actually go missing on some cruise ships.

And George Smith IV , who celebrated his honeymoon in 2005 with a tour of the Aegean Sea, experienced this first hand. Smith was with his new wife, Jennifer Hagel Smith, on the Brilliance of the Seas ship, before he vanished. On the man’s last known night, though, he reportedly drank heavily and had a loud argument with other men on the ship.

13. The Mass Robbery

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BzYm3wWhlWx/”]

Robberies can happen any time, but when there are 22 victims, the story gets a little fishier

Things were especially confusing during a robbery in 2012. Over two dozen Carnival Cruise Line passengers lost their passports and other valuables while eating at a restaurant in the Mexico leg of their trip. No one sustained any injuries, but Carnival did suspend the tour for future sailings, according to CNN . The company also agreed to work with the victims to figure out a reimbursement plan.

14. Norovirus Outbreak

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/ykdu6NhsYS/”]

Hundreds of people got sick at once.

Illnesses spread quickly in inclosed spaces. So in 2010, when a Celebrity Cruise ship had a norovirus outbreak, everyone suffered. The vessel departed from North Carolina and ended up as the site where over 400 passengers — approximately one out of every four person — fell ill. They all contracted the disease. Symptoms included vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps , and a low-grade fever. No thanks.

15. Invasion Of Privacy

[fm_instagram url=”https://www.instagram.com/p/BzYb2UHl4HK/”]

You don’t expect a cruise ship to install cameras in your private lodgings.

But one couple had their privacy expectations completely shattered during a 2018 Carnival cruise . In particular, Chris and Dana White found a recording device in their room during a quick water excursion. Understandably, they felt like the entire company egregiously invaded their space. The Carnival cruise line reportedly denied that the camera was actively recording, but the White family disagreed.

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Ellie's Travel Tips

25 Essential Cruise Ship Books: One For Every Traveler!

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Embark on a literary voyage with our guide to the top 30 cruise ship books.

This collection sails through historical sagas, practical travel guides, culinary adventures, and personal narratives, offering a panoramic view of life at sea.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure  here .

books cruise ships-3

Historical and Iconic Cruise Ships

This category is a treasure trove for those fascinated by the grandeur and history of cruise ships.

From the opulent Titanic to the legendary Queen Mary , these books offer a deep dive into the stories, architecture, and cultural impact of some of the world’s most famous cruise liners.

“Titanic: The Ship Magnificent” by Bruce Beveridge, Steve Hall, Scott Andrews, and Daniel Klistorner

  • Who Would Enjoy: History buffs, Titanic enthusiasts
  • Where to Buy: Amazon
  • Summary: This comprehensive book details the design, interior, and mechanics of the Titanic. With intricate illustrations and detailed research, it brings to life the opulence and innovation of this ill-fated vessel.

“The Unseen Britannic: The Ship in Rare Illustrations” by Simon Mills

  • Who Would Enjoy: Maritime historians, World War I enthusiasts
  • Summary: Focusing on the lesser-known sister ship of the Titanic, the Britannic, this book offers rare illustrations and photographs. It covers the ship’s design and its service as a hospital ship during World War I, providing a unique historical perspective.

“Queen Mary 2: The Greatest Ocean Liner of Our Time” by John Maxtone-Graham

  • Who Would Enjoy: Modern maritime enthusiasts, engineering aficionados
  • Summary: This book celebrates the technological marvel and luxurious design of the Queen Mary 2. With personal narratives and technical details, it offers insights into the creation and operation of this modern ocean liner.

cruise liners-7

“SS United States: Red, White, & Blue Riband, Forever” by John Maxtone-Graham

  • Who Would Enjoy: American maritime history enthusiasts, ship engineering students
  • Summary: An in-depth look at the SS United States, a symbol of American post-war pride and technological prowess. The book covers its historic transatlantic service and the efforts to preserve this iconic vessel.

“Oriana & Aurora: Taking UK Cruising into a New Millennium” by Sharon Poole and Andrew Sassoli-Walker

  • Who Would Enjoy: British cruise ship aficionados, contemporary cruise enthusiasts
  • Summary: This book chronicles the journey of two of P&O Cruises’ famous ships, Oriana and Aurora. It details their role in modernizing the UK cruise industry, offering a blend of history, personal stories, and stunning photography.

“Normandie: France’s Legendary Art Deco Ocean Liner” by John Maxtone-Graham

  • Who Would Enjoy: Art Deco admirers, French maritime history enthusiasts
  • Summary: This book offers a glimpse into the luxurious world of the SS Normandie, known for its Art Deco interiors and French elegance. It explores the ship’s design, cultural impact, and tragic end, bringing alive a key piece of maritime history.

These books not only celebrate the magnificence of historic cruise ships but also offer a window into the eras they sailed, capturing the imagination of anyone drawn to the romance and history of ocean travel.

books cruise ships-3

Cruise Ship Travel Guides

This section is dedicated to those preparing for their next cruise adventure or dreaming of one.

It features a selection of insightful guides that provide practical tips, destination recommendations, and insights into making the most of a cruise experience.

“Berlitz Cruising and Cruise Ships” by Douglas Ward

  • Who Would Enjoy: First-time cruisers, seasoned travelers
  • Summary: Renowned as the cruise industry bible, this guide provides detailed reviews of cruise ships, tips on choosing the right cruise, and insights into cruise planning. It’s an essential handbook for anyone looking to navigate the vast choices in the cruising world.

“Frommer’s EasyGuide to River Cruising” by Fran Golden and Michelle Baran

  • Who Would Enjoy: River cruise enthusiasts, European travelers
  • Summary: This guide is specifically tailored for river cruise travelers. It covers popular river cruise destinations, offers reviews of various river cruise lines, and provides tips on how to choose the best river cruise experience.

“The Cruise Handbook” by Lonely Planet

  • Who Would Enjoy: Adventure seekers, global explorers
  • Summary: Differing from traditional cruise guides, this book focuses on off-the-beaten-path cruise experiences. It’s perfect for those looking to explore unique destinations and engage in more adventurous cruise activities.

cruiseliner

“Rick Steves’ Mediterranean Cruise Ports” by Rick Steves

  • Who Would Enjoy: Mediterranean cruise goers, culture and history buffs
  • Summary: Ideal for travelers who want to explore the rich history and culture of the Mediterranean. This guide provides port-by-port strategies, advice on how to avoid crowds, and recommendations for local dining and attractions.

“Cruise Ports Caribbean” by Lonely Planet

  • Who Would Enjoy: Caribbean cruise enthusiasts, beach lovers
  • Summary: A comprehensive guide to the most popular Caribbean cruise ports. This book includes detailed maps, must-see attractions, and insider tips on how to make the most of your Caribbean cruise stopovers.

“Alaska by Cruise Ship: The Complete Guide to Cruising Alaska” by Anne Vipond

  • Who Would Enjoy: Alaska cruise travelers, nature enthusiasts
  • Summary: This guidebook provides in-depth coverage of cruising the Alaskan coast. It includes details about the wildlife, native culture, and spectacular sights you can expect to see, along with practical advice for planning your Alaskan cruise adventure.

Each of these guides is a compass for navigating the exciting and sometimes overwhelming world of cruises, ensuring readers can confidently set sail on their dream cruise vacation.

ship poop decks

Adventure and Expedition Cruises

This section caters to thrill-seekers and nature lovers, showcasing books that explore the adventurous side of cruising.

These books delve into expedition cruises to remote destinations, offering insights into unique experiences away from the traditional cruise routes.

“Insight Guides Cruising & Cruise Ships 2024” by Insight Guides

  • Who Would Enjoy: Adventure travelers, nature enthusiasts
  • Summary: This guide provides an in-depth look at expedition cruising, focusing on trips to less-traveled destinations like the Arctic and the Amazon. It offers practical advice on what to expect and how to prepare for an adventure cruise.

“The Cruise of the ‘Antarctic’ to the South Polar Regions” by Henrik Bull

  • Who Would Enjoy: Polar explorers, wildlife enthusiasts
  • Summary: An exploration of the unique experiences offered by cruises to the polar regions. The book covers the wildlife, geography, and conditions of the Arctic and Antarctic, providing an informative guide for those looking to embark on a polar cruise adventure.

“To the South Seas” by Gifford Pinchot

  • Who Would Enjoy: Eco-tourists, Galapagos enthusiasts
  • Summary: Primarily focusing on the Galapagos Islands, the Marquesas, and Tahiti, this book offers insights into the diverse wildlife and volcanic landscapes of the region. It includes tips on choosing the right cruise, best times to visit, and must-see attractions.

cruise poop decks

“Kawabunga’s South Seas Adventure: Blue Water Cruising in a Twenty Foot Boat” by Charles Dewell

  • Who Would Enjoy: Culture seekers, tropical destination fans
  • Summary: This enthralling tale follows a daring couple as they pursue their dream of navigating the open waters to the South Seas. Set sail with the Dewells in their modest sloop, Kawabunga, on an exceptional voyage.

“Back at the helm – sailing the Yaghan to Antarctica, Patagonia and the South Pacific” by Helene Martensson

  • Who Would Enjoy: Adventurous travelers, nature photographers
  • Summary: A captivating account of cruising to the southernmost parts of the globe, this book offers a glimpse into the awe-inspiring beauty of Antarctica and Patagonia, along with practical advice for travelers planning such an expedition.

“My Amazon River Cruise Adventure” by Kiwi Books

  • Who Would Enjoy: Amazon rainforest explorers, wildlife adventurers
  • Summary: This book is a guide to cruising the Amazon River, detailing the unique flora, fauna, and indigenous cultures that can be experienced along this mighty river. It offers practical tips for planning an Amazon cruise adventure.

These books open a window into the world of adventure cruising, highlighting the extraordinary experiences that await beyond the typical cruise destinations.

They are perfect for those seeking to combine their love of travel with the thrill of exploration and discovery.

cruise liners-7

Behind the Scenes of Cruise Ships

This section offers a fascinating look behind the curtain of cruise ships, appealing to those intrigued by the inner workings, the life of crew members, and the intricacies of operating a floating city.

These books provide insights into the daily operations, challenges, and life aboard a cruise ship from a different perspective.

“Cruise Confidential: A Hit Below the Waterline” by Brian David Bruns

  • Who Would Enjoy: Future cruise staff, cruise enthusiasts
  • Summary: This book is a personal account of the author’s year spent working on a cruise ship. It’s a revealing look at the demanding life of the crew, the behind-the-scenes workings of a cruise ship, and the unique challenges faced by staff.

“Devils on the Deep Blue Sea: The Dreams, Schemes, and Showdowns That Built America’s Cruise-Ship Empires” by Kristoffer A. Garin

  • Who Would Enjoy: Maritime business students, history buffs
  • Summary: This book delves into the business and history of the cruise industry, chronicling the rise of major cruise lines and the cutthroat tactics they used to dominate the market. It offers a detailed look at the industry’s development and its impact on maritime travel.

“Ship for Brains: Cruise Confidential 2” by Brian David Bruns

  • Who Would Enjoy: Aspiring cruise ship workers, fans of travel memoirs
  • Summary: A sequel to ‘Cruise Confidential’, this book continues the author’s adventures and misadventures working aboard a cruise ship. It provides a humorous and candid look at cruise ship life from the crew’s perspective.

mini cruises

“Chronicles of a Cruise Ship Crew Member: Answers to All the Questions Every Passenger Wants to Ask” by Joshua Kinser

  • Who Would Enjoy: Curious travelers, cruise ship enthusiasts
  • Summary: Written by a former crew member, this book answers common questions about life on a cruise ship. It covers topics from crew duties to the secrets of maintaining a floating hotel, providing an insightful look into the day-to-day operations on board.

“The Truth About Cruise Ships: A Cruise Ship Officer Survives the Work, Adventure, Alcohol, and Sex of Ship Life” by Jay Herring

  • Who Would Enjoy: Those considering a cruise ship career, adult readers
  • Summary: This book offers a no-holds-barred account of the author’s experiences as a senior officer on a cruise ship. It reveals the party culture, the challenges, and the exhilarating experiences of working at sea.

“Seaworthy: Adrift with William Willis in the Golden Age of Rafting” by T.R. Pearson

  • Who Would Enjoy: Maritime adventure readers, history enthusiasts
  • Summary: Though not about cruise ships per se, this book recounts the incredible sea voyages of William Willis, who rafted across oceans in the mid-20th century. It provides a unique perspective on seafaring and the allure of ocean travel.

These books provide a diverse and engaging look at the realities of cruise ship life, from the glamour and excitement to the challenges and hard work.

They are essential reading for anyone curious about what really happens behind those closed cabin doors.

cruise ship horror books

Personal Narratives and Cruise Ship Stories

This category delves into the personal and often transformative experiences of individuals on cruise ships.

From memoirs to fictional tales set on the high seas, these books capture the essence of cruise travel through the eyes of diverse characters, offering a blend of adventure, introspection, and human connection.

“A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again: Essays and Arguments” by David Foster Wallace

  • Who Would Enjoy: Fans of literary journalism, readers seeking a humorous take on cruising
  • Summary: This collection features a famously witty and sharply observed essay about the author’s experience on a luxury cruise. Wallace’s account is both humorous and critical, providing a unique perspective on the cruise experience.

“Love with a Chance of Drowning” by Torre DeRoche

  • Who Would Enjoy: Romance readers, adventure travel fans
  • Summary: This memoir tells the story of the author who overcomes her fear of the ocean to join her boyfriend on a sailing trip across the Pacific. It’s a tale of love, adventure, and self-discovery set against the backdrop of the open sea.

semester at sea

  • Who Would Enjoy: Readers interested in cruise ship life, fans of travel memoirs
  • Summary: As mentioned earlier, this book is an inside look at the life of a cruise ship worker. It’s a funny and eye-opening account of the author’s experiences, revealing a side of cruising that passengers rarely see.

“The Woman in Cabin 10” by Ruth Ware

  • Who Would Enjoy: Mystery and thriller readers, fans of suspenseful stories
  • Summary: This fictional thriller is set on a luxury cruise ship. The story follows a journalist who believes she has witnessed a murder on board. It’s a gripping tale of intrigue and danger on the high seas.

“Decked with Folly” by Kate Kingsbury

  • Who Would Enjoy: Cozy mystery fans, readers who enjoy light-hearted whodunits
  • Summary: Set on a historic cruise ship hosting a Dickensian festival, this mystery novel combines humor, intrigue, and a touch of romance. It’s a delightful read for those who enjoy a good mystery with a nautical twist.

These books offer a wide range of perspectives on cruise ship travel, from the humorous and irreverent to the romantic and mysterious.

Each story invites readers to embark on a literary journey, exploring the highs and lows of life at sea.

cruise liners-7

In this comprehensive guide, we have navigated through the diverse world of cruise ship literature, exploring a variety of themes and perspectives.

From the detailed historical accounts of iconic vessels to the intimate personal narratives of life at sea, each category has offered a unique insight into the rich tapestry of cruise ship experiences.

Recap of Categories

  • Historical and Iconic Cruise Ships: We delved into the grandeur and heritage of some of the most famous ocean liners, uncovering their stories and cultural impact.
  • Cruise Ship Travel Guides: Practical and insightful, these guides are invaluable resources for planning the perfect cruise vacation, tailored to a variety of tastes and interests.
  • Culinary Experiences on Cruise Ships: Food enthusiasts were treated to a culinary voyage, exploring the diverse and delicious dining options available at sea.
  • Adventure and Expedition Cruises: For the thrill-seekers and nature lovers, we highlighted books that venture beyond the beaten path, offering exhilarating and unique cruise experiences.
  • Behind the Scenes of Cruise Ships: A peek behind the curtain revealed the intricate workings, challenges, and life aboard a cruise ship from a crew’s perspective.
  • Personal Narratives and Cruise Ship Stories: These memoirs and fictional tales captured the personal, often transformative experiences of individuals, offering a blend of adventure, introspection, and connection.

Each book in our guide not only informs and entertains but also opens a porthole to the vast and varied world of cruise ship travel.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser, a maritime enthusiast, or simply a lover of travel and adventure, these books promise to enrich your understanding and appreciation of the cruising world.

FAQs on Cruise Lines Books

Here are some frequently asked questions about cruise line books that might help readers who are looking to deepen their knowledge or choose the right book for their needs.

  • For first-timers, books like “Berlitz Cruising and Cruise Ships” by Douglas Ward or “The Cruise Handbook” by Lonely Planet offer a great introduction to cruising, covering essential tips, ship reviews, and destination advice.
  • Yes, “Frommer’s EasyGuide to River Cruising” by Fran Golden and Michelle Baran is an excellent choice for those interested in river cruising, especially in Europe.
  • Absolutely, “The Cruise Ship Cookbook: Delicious Recipes from the High Seas” by Carla Capalbo and “Cruising for Foodies: The Ultimate Guide to Culinary Travel at Sea” by Diana Rubino are perfect for culinary enthusiasts.
  • For history buffs, “Titanic: The Ship Magnificent” by Beveridge et al., and “Normandie: France’s Legendary Art Deco Ocean Liner” by John Maxtone-Graham are excellent choices.
  • “Expedition Cruising: A Guide to Adventure and Discovery at Sea” by Aaron Saunders is ideal for those looking for adventure and expedition cruising experiences.
  • “Cruise Confidential: A Hit Below the Waterline” by Brian David Bruns offers an insightful and humorous look into the life of a cruise ship crew member.
  • While some books, like Douglas Ward’s guide, offer tips on choosing cruises, for the most current deals and tips, online resources and cruise forums might be more up-to-date.
  • Yes, “The Woman in Cabin 10” by Ruth Ware is a thrilling fictional story set on a luxury cruise ship.
  • Many books focus on specific ships or lines, like “Queen Mary 2: The Greatest Ocean Liner of Our Time” by John Maxtone-Graham, which details the Queen Mary 2.
  • “Love with a Chance of Drowning” by Torre DeRoche is a memoir that includes personal cruising experiences, offering a blend of romance and adventure.
  • Yes, books like “The World’s Most Luxurious Cruise Ships” by Anne Vipond focus specifically on the luxury cruise experience, detailing the amenities, services, and exclusive experiences on high-end cruise ships.
  • “The Family Cruise Companion’s Guide to Cruising” by Elaine M. Warren is an excellent resource for families, offering tips on family-friendly activities, choosing the right cruises, and making the most of a family cruise vacation.
  • While most general cruise guides include some cabin information, specific books like “The Berlitz Guide to Cruising” often have more detailed reviews of cruise ship cabins and what to expect.
  • “Sustainable Tourism on a Finite Planet” by Megan Epler Wood, while not exclusively about cruising, includes discussions on sustainable practices in the tourism industry, including cruising.
  • “Cruise Ship S.O.S.: The Life-Saving Adventures of a Doctor at Sea” by Ben MacFarlane is a good choice for those interested in the medical and technical aspects of cruise ships.
  • Travel guidebooks like “Rick Steves’ Mediterranean Cruise Ports” often include itineraries and routes specific to certain regions.
  • “Devils on the Deep Blue Sea” by Kristoffer A. Garin explores the business and ethical challenges in the cruise industry, providing a more critical perspective on cruising.
  • While most books focus on current or historical aspects, some, like the annual “Berlitz Cruising and Cruise Ships” guide, offer glimpses into the evolving trends and future directions of the cruise industry.
  • “Cruising: A Guide to the Cruise Line Industry” by Marc Mancini is known for its beautiful photography, and there are several coffee table books that combine cruise travel with stunning visuals.
  • “Superyacht: The World of Luxury Yachts” by Marco Valle delves into the world of luxury yacht cruising, showcasing the opulence and exclusivity of this niche within maritime travel.

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Dead on the Water: Abandon Ship (Zombie Cruise)

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R.W.K Clark

Dead on the Water: Abandon Ship (Zombie Cruise) Paperback – July 28, 2016

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Don’t miss the thrilling suspense novel from author RWK Clark. What happens when a dream vacation becomes a fight for survival? This post-apocalyptic science fiction novel pulsates with horror and evil that will have you on the edge of your seat. Dead On The Water has been optioned for a feature film adaptation, Dead In The Water.

  • Print length 267 pages
  • Language English
  • Publication date July 28, 2016
  • Dimensions 5 x 0.67 x 8 inches
  • ISBN-10 0997876700
  • ISBN-13 978-0997876703
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Passing Through

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Novelist R.W.K. Clark 2022 books lineup

R.W.K. Clark, Fiction Author

Out to Sea, Dystopian Sci-Fi Books, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction

“The glory of fiction is in its falseness, but the impact of fiction is found in its painful reality.” – R.W.K. Clark

It may be fiction, so tread lightly and enjoy the food for thought that I am offering to feed you.

Popular science fiction and fantasy thrillers by R WK Clark:

  • Zombie Diaries
  • Dead on the Water
  • Lucifer's Angel
  • Permanent Ink

R W.K. Clark

Sit back and enjoy these stay-up-all-night psychological thrillers..

R W.K. Clark is a prolific bestselling author with over a million words published. Though he has written novels across many genres, he is best known for his psychological thrillers. His other books include science fiction and fantasy. His broad range and passion for writing creates portals for the imagination.

Must-read psychological thrillers by R WK Clark:

  • Passing Through
  • Brother's Keeper
  • Retribution
  • Box Office Butcher
  • Requiem for the Caged

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From the author, about the author, product details.

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Clarkltd; 1st edition (July 28, 2016)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 267 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0997876700
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0997876703
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 10.9 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 0.67 x 8 inches
  • #4,991 in Medical Thrillers (Books)
  • #6,392 in Medical Fiction (Books)
  • #29,692 in Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction (Books)

About the author

R.w.k clark.

Bestselling author R.W.K Clark published his first sci-fi thriller in 2015. Thanks to his stockpile of short stories written throughout his lifetime. Since then, he has published over thirty-eight novels, including psychological horror and supernatural thrillers. He is published in twenty-four countries and two languages. He is an author of thrillers for both adults and teens, including Retribution, a psychological thriller, and Zombie Diaries, a Y.A. supernatural. He was born in Albuquerque, and he loves traveling the world.

Clark has been an I.T. Director and photographer. As an I.T. professional by day, novelist by night, he made his way back to his first love, creative writing. He has dived in the Caribbean, Gulf, and North Atlantic. Diving has allowed him to see many shipwrecks and swim with numerous sharks. He loves photography, sailing, and beaches. Currently, he resides in the tropics, most likely multitasking and occasionally wearing pants. With the belief that writing can change the world, he uses it to inspire people to create. You can catch him writing from the comfort of his southern porch with a glass of ice tea.

Feel free to chat with Clark on Twitter or Instagram at @rwkclark or visit him at rwkclark.com

You're probably wondering why you're still reading this when you should be reading my books instead.

It's because you're curious, and that's natural. You want to know what happens next. I'm sure you've read a lot of books in your life, but how many of them have kept you up at night? How many of them have made you question your own sanity? That's what I do. I take the ordinary and turn it into the unthinkable.

You think you know horror, but you don't know horror until you've read my work. My words will crawl under your skin and stay there long after you've finished the last page. Are you brave enough to find out what happens next?

Start reading my books today!

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Breaking news, vacation horror as ‘drunk’ son, 20, jumps from royal caribbean cruise in front of family.

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A cruise turned into a nightmare for people aboard Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas when a young man jumped overboard shortly after 4 a.m. Thursday.

The 18-story ship was sailing between Cuba and the Bahamas’ Grand Inagua Island when the as-yet-unidentified man jumped off one of the decks.

According to onlookers, his father and brother watched helplessly as he leaped over the side.

Some passengers said it appeared to be an impulsive, spur-of-the-moment decision. 

Liberty of the Seas

“I had hung out with him and his brother in the hot tub until 3:30,” passenger Bryan Sims tells The Post. ” It was standing room only. He sat right beside me the whole time.”

“He was pretty drunk,” Sims continues.

“As we were walking from the hot tub back to the elevators, his dad and brother were walking towards us. His dad was fussing at him for being drunk, I guess.” “When we got to them, he said to his dad, ‘I’ll fix this right now.’ And he jumped out the window in front of us all.” 

“There was a lot of yelling, and the crew was alerted immediately,” another passenger,  Deborah Morrison, told The Post.

“His family was horrified. Just beside themselves. I can’t even begin to imagine what they’re going through.”

“It was insane,” says Sims. “It was just surreal.” 

In a statement to The Post, Royal Caribbean said its crew immediately sprang into action following the incident.

“The ship’s crew immediately launched a search and rescue effort alongside the US Coast Guard, who has taken over the search,” the statement reads.

“Our Care Team is providing support and assistance to the guest’s family during this difficult time. For the privacy of the guest and their family, we have no additional details to share.”

News of the apparent suicide attempt quickly spread among the guests — and many of them tried to help in any way they could.

Decks of Liberty of the Seas

“The early morning was definitely somber as so many people came out of their cabins to stare at the sea, hoping to be able to aid in finding the person,” said Amy Phelps Fouse, a passenger on the ship.

“Royal Caribbean has been excellent at communicating updates throughout the day,” Fouse continued. “They have asked that people act with compassion in light of the tragic situation.”

Overboard incidents on cruise ships are rare.

According to the Washington Post , about 386 people were reported to have gone overboard on the major cruise lines between 2000 to 2020.

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The incidents, whether accidental or intentional, are often deadly.

In the past few years, most cruise lines have enacted onboard safety measures and surveillance systems to help reduce the risk of overboard deaths.

The Coast Guard confirmed to The Post it is still conducting a search and rescue operation in the waters off Cuba. The man has not yet been found.

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to  SuicidePreventionLifeline.org .

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COMMENTS

  1. Cruise Ship Horror (12 books)

    12 books based on 4 votes: The Hope by James Lovegrove, Blood Cruise by Jake Bible, Dead in the Water by Nancy Holder, Adrift by K.R. Griffiths, Blood Cr...

  2. Millie's Cruise Ship Mysteries (24 book series) Kindle Edition

    Millie rushes towards the crowd that has gathered on the portside upper deck and watches in horror as the ship's crew desperately tries to save a young man who has just gone over.Onboard investigators believe it's a clear cut case of vacation suicide, but Millie isn't convinced. ... is Book 3 in the Cruise Ship Cozy Mysteries Series ...

  3. Looking for horror books set on cruise ships : r/booksuggestions

    7. UnderThePeachTrees. • 1 yr. ago. Not a horror, more of a thriller, but The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware is really good! 3. RichCorinthian. • 1 yr. ago. The Last Passenger by Manel Loureiro most definitely fits the bill. Haunted Nazi derelict ocean liner.

  4. 6 Nail-Biting Novels Set on Cruise Ships

    by Ruth Ware. This twisty psychological thriller follows Lo Blalock, a travel writer aboard a luxury cruise ship in the North Sea. Lo believes she hears a woman murdered in the cabin next door, but all of Lo's shipmates think she's crazy. Ware's atmospheric descriptions and deft plotting keep the reader off balance throughout the story.

  5. 20 Books Set on + About Cruise Ships

    Seven Days in May by Kim Izzo. During World War I, two New York City socialite sisters have plans to leave on a ship for England. One is set to marry a future English Lord, another wants to join the suffragette movement. But then they board the Lusitania and their survival is at stake. For fans of historical fiction.

  6. Horror Will Find You By Air, By Sea, or By Land in These ...

    Horror Will Find You By Air, By Sea, or By Land in These Eight Traveling Horror Novels Addison Rizer Nov 24, 2022. Addison Rizer ... Elaine, decide to celebrate their commitment aboard the cruise ship Oceanus. Soon after boarding, though, Dan thinks he sees a body being thrown overboard. Trapped on board in the middle of the ocean with ...

  7. Amazon.com: Cruise Ships

    Killer Karaoke: A Cruise Ship Cozy Mystery Novel (Millie's Cruise Ship Mysteries Book 7) Book 7 of 24: Millie's Cruise Ship Mysteries | by Hope Callaghan | Sep 11, 2016. 4.7 out of 5 stars. 939. Kindle. $0.00 $ 0. 00. ... Horror; Humorous; Military; Noir; Religious; Romantic; Characters. Amateur Sleuths; British Detectives; Female Protagonists ...

  8. Ocean Horror Books Perfect To Read On The Beach Or A Cruise

    Look no further! (Or do, I can't stop you). These are my top picks for the creepiest ocean books. The Deep. Into the Drowning Deep. From Below. The Fisherman. If you want to listen to some of these, consider trying Audible! You can get your first month free (one free book) plus tons of others they have for free.

  9. Cruise Mysteries Box Set (5 book series) Kindle Edition

    Treat yourself to books 7-9 in the ORIGINAL Cruise Ship Cozy Mystery Series "If you like cruise mysteries, you'll love Hope Callaghan's Cruise Ship Cozy Mystery series!" Cruise Ship Cozy Mysteries Box Set III (Books 7-9) BONUS: RECIPES INSIDE!----- This Boxed Set Contains: Killer Karoke (Cruise Mysteries Book 7) Suite Revenge (Cruise Mysteries Book 8) Cruisin' for a Bruisin' (Cruise ...

  10. 15 Engaging Books to Read About Cruises

    6. Cruise Ship Doctor. A fun, light-hearted romance, this novel by Gerry Yukevich is a delightful story to appeal to any cruise traveler with its Caribbean destinations and connection to Valentine ...

  11. Cruise ship horror. : r/horrorlit

    A horror story that takes place on a cruise ship. I'll check it out, but I really disliked the book "the hunger" by that author. Maybe "Dead Silence" by SA Barnes is a better option for you, it's a haunted cruiseship but in space. Second Dead Silence. Cruise ship in space.

  12. 25 Best Books Set on a Cruise Ship

    Publication Date: June 30, 2016. 3.74 out of 5 on Goodreads. mystery thriller mystery thriller. See it on Amazon. Death on the Nile. Agatha Christie What It's About: The tranquillity of a cruise along the Nile was shattered by the discovery that Linnet Ridgeway had been shot through the head.

  13. 8 Cruise Ship Mystery Books That Make for a Chilling Summer

    Death on the Nile. By Agatha Christie. A beloved classic recently made into a star-studded movie adaptation, this book follows detective Hercule Poirot on a luxury cruise along the Nile. The peaceful extravagance of the journey is destroyed when the beautiful young Linnet Ridgeway is found dead, shot through the head.

  14. Cruise Ship Mysteries Series by Hope Callaghan

    Cruise Ship Mysteries Series. 21 primary works • 27 total works. In June, 2015, Hope combined her love of cruising with her love of writing Cozy Mysteries, which brought about the Cruise Ship Cozy Mysteries Series of books. Millie Sanders is introduced as a heartbroken senior sleuth who lands the job of a lifetime as the assistant cruise ...

  15. 21 Interesting Cruise Ship Books to Read on a Cruise

    This thriller rates a 3.4 on Goodreads. Bert and Mamie Take a Cruise by John Keyse-Walker - When a couple sets sail on an African cruise in 1939, the last thing they are expecting is to become cruise detectives! (As this is a new 2023 release, the paperback version is not yet available at the time of this writing.

  16. MADNESS: An Apocalyptic-Horror Thriller (Madness Chronicles Book 1

    Banner's inclusion of rational scientific explanation, playful allusions to apocalyptic fiction, and the horror of being confined on a cruise ship under attack, provides fresh dimension to a familiar concept of animals rendered nightmarishly threatening. " ~~ BookLife " This book is for those who enjoy an apocalyptic story with aspects of ...

  17. Cruise Ship Horror Stories That Will Make You Rethink Your ...

    In February of 2018, two French passengers were out and about in Antigua while their MSC cruise ship docked. And in a horrible turn of events, the aggressor in a violent robbery stabbed one of the passengers in the abdomen. Fortunately, the authorities found and charged the suspects. 10. The Carnival Splendor Fire.

  18. 25 Essential Cruise Ship Books: One For Every Traveler!

    Historical and Iconic Cruise Ships. This category is a treasure trove for those fascinated by the grandeur and history of cruise ships. From the opulent Titanic to the legendary Queen Mary, these books offer a deep dive into the stories, architecture, and cultural impact of some of the world's most famous cruise liners. "Titanic: The Ship Magnificent" by Bruce Beveridge, Steve Hall ...

  19. Dead on the Water: Abandon Ship (Zombie Cruise)

    The book ends with the cruise ship docking and all of the zombies walking off and attacking the unsuspecting people around leading to the belief that the infection will now take over the country. ... Dead on the Water: Abandon Ship is a well crafted Sci-Fi Fantasy Horror. And I would imagine that fans of this genre will love sinking their teeth ...

  20. Royal Caribbean cruise horror as man, 20, jumps overboard

    A cruise turned into a nightmare for people aboard Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas when a young man jumped overboard shortly after 4 a.m. Thursday.. The 18-story ship was sailing between ...