Tender Boat Accidents

Tender Boat Accidents – Injuries During Transfers at Sea

Not all ships dock directly at ports. In many locations, especially in the Caribbean or small coastal towns, ships anchor offshore and use smaller vessels called tender boats to shuttle passengers to and from land. While this is a routine part of cruising, tender transfers are among the riskiest parts of the journey.

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Injuries can occur during:

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Stepping between the ship platform and the tender
Transferring to shore at floating or unstable docks
Rough seas or weather conditions
Boarding or disembarking without proper assistance

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At Sher & Volk, P.A., we advocate for passengers and crew injured during tender boat operations. Whether it’s a slip and fall while boarding or an injury caused by a sudden movement of the tender, we are here to help you seek the compensation you deserve.

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Common Causes of Tender Boat Injuries

Tender boat accidents can happen for various reasons, including:

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Inadequate safety measures during boarding and disembarking
Sudden movements of the tender due to rough seas
Insufficient crew assistance for elderly or disabled passengers
Slippery surfaces on the tender or gangway
Overcrowding or uneven weight distribution
Insecure ramps, ladders or steps

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These factors can lead to serious injuries, including fractures, sprains, and head trauma. It is crucial for vessel operators to ensure that all safety protocols are followed to protect their passengers.

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Tender Boat Safety Standards — What Should Happen vs. What Often Does

Cruise lines are expected to maintain minimum safety standards during tendering. These include:

Failure to provide adequate safety briefings
Deploying experienced crew to assist with every transfer
Pausing operations during high swells or storms
Providing mobility aids or alternative options for passengers with disabilities
Using clear signage and audible boarding instructions

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However, cruise staff are often rushed or undertrained, and passengers may be herded through without adequate support or explanation — especially when the ship is behind schedule. These breakdowns increase risk and create liability.

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Who Is Responsible for Tender Boat Accidents?

Cruise lines and other shipowners have a legal obligation to provide a safe means of transportation for their passengers. If a tender boat accident occurs due to negligence, the cruise line may be held liable. Factors that can establish liability include:

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Failure to provide adequate safety briefings
Negligent crew behavior
Improper maintenance of the tender boats

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If you have been injured while using a tender boat, it is essential to consult with a legal professional who understands maritime law and can help you navigate your claim.

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What to Do If You Are Injured on a Tender Boat

1. Report the incident to the crew immediately.

2. Document the scene with photos and witness information.

3. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

4. Avoid signing any waivers or release forms without legal advice.

5. Contact Sher & Volk, P.A. for a free consultation to discuss your case.

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We are committed to helping you recover from your injuries and hold the responsible parties accountable.

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Hypothetical Case Example: Fall During Transfer

Imagine a fictional scenario: A retiree is stepping off the tender boat onto a floating dock in Cozumel. The boat rocks abruptly due to incoming swells, and no crew is present to assist. She loses balance, falls onto the dock edge, and fractures her wrist and hip.

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In this situation, the cruise line could be liable for failing to provide adequate support and for proceeding with tender operations during unsafe conditions.

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Who Is Responsible — Cruise Line or Tender Operator?

Shipowners often try to shift blame to third-party operators when something goes wrong. But legal responsibility may still fall on the shipowner if:

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Inadequate safety measures during boarding and disembarking
They controlled the tender operation
Their staff supervised boarding or disembarkation
They failed to warn about weather risks or unstable platforms
They advertised or endorsed the excursion involving the tender ride
The operating contract included the tender as part of a shore activity

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We investigate control, contracts, and maritime law principles to determine the correct parties at fault, and the proper legal theories upon which to proceed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I still have a claim if the tender boat wasn’t owned by the cruise line?
Yes, especially if the cruise line coordinated the transfer or failed to ensure passenger safety.

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Is there a deadline to file a cruise injury claim?
Most cruise tickets require written notice within 180 days and a lawsuit within1 year.

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Will I have to sue in another country?
Not usually. Most cruise contracts require lawsuits to be filed in U.S. federalcourt, often in Miami.

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What compensation can I recover?
Medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages may beavailable.

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Can I still file a claim if I’ve returned home?
Yes. We handle cruise injury cases for clients worldwide.

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Talk to a Tender Boat Injury Lawyer Today

Cruise passengers trust the line to provide safe transfers — not dangerous, poorly supervised tender rides. If you’ve been hurt while boarding or exiting a tender boat, let Sher & Volk, P.A. help. We’ll investigate the operation, determine who’s responsible, and pursue full compensation for your injuries.

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Tender Boat Accidents