The cruise industry took the unprecedented step of releasing its crime statistics earlier this week in an effort to show Congress how “safe” its product is.
That’s a good start.
Here’s how to prove that the cruise lines mean business when it comes to crime.
Give us the Green Sheet.
The sheet, a comprehensive inspection report on vessel sanitation, is published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If a passenger has any questions about the cleanliness of a ship, it’s the place to go.
The cruise industry should agree to report its crime statistics — all of them — to a U.S. law enforcement agency on an ongoing basis. And it should close existing loopholes (like only reporting crimes against U.S. citizens).
The cruise industry says its ships are safe. We want to believe them.
Just show us the data.
Christopher Elliott is the author of Scammed: How to Save Your Money and Find Better Service in a World of Schemes, Swindles, and Shady Deals. Critics have called it “eye-opening” and “inspiring” — it’ll “grab your attention and won’t let go.” Order your copy now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble or iTunes.
Elliott is consumer advocate 
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