https://www.marlaw.com/maritime-personal-injury/cruise-ship-injuries/assault-on-a-cruise-ship/

Who Has Jurisdiction On Cruise Ships?

Jurisdiction can be tricky when it comes to cruise ships. In general the party that has jurisdiction will be determined based on the location of the ship at the time the crime is committed.

For example, if the assault occurs while the ship is at port, the authorities of that port will have jurisdiction over the crime. Countries within 12 nautical miles of the ship also have jurisdiction.

So what happens if the ship is at sea when the assault occurs? Jurisdiction will fall to the ship's registered country. With jurisdiction being determined primarily based on location, it's extremely important that you have a skilled cruise injury lawyer on your side to ensure you receive fair treatment and that justice is obtained.