Carnival Cruise Line Faces Bed Bug Lawsuit After Passengers Awaken Covered in Bites

A Caribbean Vacation Turns Into a Legal Nightmare

A dream voyage on Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Horizon turned into a nightmare for two passengers who say they awoke covered in painful, itchy welts.
According to a federal lawsuit filed October 2025 in the U.S. Southern District of Florida, travelers Catherine Shockley and William Maycock allege they suffered more than 30 bed bug bites during their February 2025 Caribbean cruise.

The pair claim Carnival negligently failed to maintain sanitary cabins, properly inspect bedding, or respond when they reported the infestation.

What the Lawsuit Alleges

According to the complaint, the couple first noticed clusters of red marks on their arms and legs on the second morning of the voyage. When the itching spread, Shockley inspected their stateroom and allegedly discovered live bed bugs, eggs, and fecal spotting in the mattress seams.

They say that despite notifying the cabin attendant and guest services, Carnival failed to relocate them or provide proper treatment. Photos in the filing reportedly document dozens of bites across their bodies. (New York Post)

The passengers seek damages for:

Physical pain and scarring
Emotional distress and sleep loss
Medical costs and lost property
Alleged negligence and breach of duty

(People Magazine)

Carnival’s Response and Inspection Protocols

Carnival Cruise Line has declined public comment, citing pending litigation, but stated it maintains an “extensive and thorough sanitation process” for guest cabins.

The company’s published policy requires attendants to conduct weekly bed bug inspections and chemically treat any affected cabins, along with surrounding staterooms.

The Carnival Horizon scored 93 out of 100 on its most recent CDC Vessel Sanitation Program inspection - a passing grade well above the failure threshold.

However, the CDC notes that even luxury accommodations can experience infestations:

“Bed bugs are in five-star hotels and resorts. Cleanliness does not determine whether they are present.” (People Magazine)

Legal Experts Weigh In

Attorneys from Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein LLP (DDRB), which represents the plaintiffs, emphasize that the case highlights passenger rights aboard cruise ships.

They argue the cruise line’s failure to act after multiple complaints demonstrates negligence. (DDRLawyers.com)

Legal observers note the suit could hinge on whether Carnival had prior knowledge of similar incidents or nearby cabin fumigation.

TheTravel.com reported that nearby cabins were allegedly treated for pests shortly before or after the plaintiffs’ voyage — a point that, if verified, could strengthen their case. (The Travel)

Why This Case Matters for Cruise Travelers

While bed bugs do not transmit disease, they can cause allergic reactions, infections from scratching, insomnia, and significant anxiety.
The Carnival Horizon lawsuit underscores broader concerns about cruise-ship hygiene, passenger safety, and corporate accountability.

Traveler takeaways:

Inspect bedding, seams, and drapes upon boarding.
Report any signs of bugs or bites immediately and request a new cabin.
Take photos and document conversations with staff.
Keep receipts for medical treatment and replacement clothing.

Broader Context: Cruise Lines and Pest Control

According to Cruise.Blog, most cruise lines conduct regular pest-control inspections, but infestations can occur between port cleanings or through passenger luggage.

In confined cruise environments, a single introduction can spread rapidly if not caught early. (Cruise Blog)

The outcome of this case may prompt industry-wide reviews of how cabins are inspected, how guest complaints are escalated, and whether refunds or relocations should be mandatory when infestations are confirmed.

What Happens Next

The lawsuit remains active in federal court in Miami. If the plaintiffs prevail or reach a settlement, it could set a precedent for other travelers seeking compensation for cabin infestations.

Until then, the Carnival Horizon story serves as a cautionary tale - and a reminder that even high-scoring ships are not immune to unexpected stowaways.

References

Note: Not Legal Advice. For informational purposes only. If you need legal advice, reach out to the Bed Bug lawyers in our services directory.

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