The Most Dangerous Cruise Foods, According to a Maritime Lawyer

Maritime lawyer Michael Winkleman, who handles passenger injury and illness cases on cruise ships, has named the foods he considers most dangerous for travelers. In a Yahoo interview, he warned against raw seafood, especially oysters and sushi, which can cause serious bacterial infections. He pointed to Vibrio vulnificus, a rare but potentially fatal pathogen. Even healthy adults can fall ill, but older passengers and those with weakened immune systems face the highest risk.

Winkleman also advised avoiding mayonnaise-based dishes like tuna or egg salad, plus pre-cut fruit, leafy greens, peeled eggs, soft cheeses, and cream soup. Instead, eat hot, freshly prepared food, wash hands before every meal, and report vomiting or diarrhea to the crew immediately.